The Department of Defense strongly supports outreach efforts and meaningful engagement with communities throughout the cleanup process. DoD recognizes community concerns and uncertainty regarding the duration of ongoing cleanup and remediation efforts, and concerns regarding the potential impacts of PFAS on human health and the environment. DoD is striving to continuously enhance communication, consistently report on its progress to address these concerns, and keep community members and other stakeholders informed. Community engagements, in-person installations visits, outreach events, and reports and briefings are some of the ways in which DoD is currently engaging with the public, Congress, and other stakeholders. Additional information about these activities is available as follows.
Environmental Cleanup Communication and Outreach Initiative
ODASD EM&R launched the Environmental Cleanup Communication and Outreach (ECCO) Initiative in 2022 to expand communication with stakeholders including community residents, RAB members, and environmental regulators during DoD’s environmental cleanup efforts. The initiative assesses current communication methods across military departments. ECCO’s goal is to enhance dialogue and transparency and develop communication tools to strengthen relationships with stakeholders and share environmental cleanup information and progress.
Outreach Events
DoD hosts outreach events with members of affected communities to share the latest developments in DoD’s PFAS efforts, receive feedback, and take questions from members of the public.
Community Involvement Resources
Community Involvement Plans (CIPs), Restoration Advisory Boards (RABs) and the Technical Assistance for Public Participation (TAPP) are different tools DoD uses to encourage community engagement in the cleanup process. The local installation works with the community to determine the best options for public involvement.