Working to Keep Hazardous Waste Out of the Landfills and Streams - EPA Region 4 Response Support Corps Activities, a Personal Perspective

摘要

In the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina it became evident that there were a multitude of problems created by the storm. Although human concerns were foremost, it became evident that during recovery environmental problems must be addressed. The physical effects to the region from Katrina consisted of four major types of damage:(1)Direct damage from the hurricane winds(2)Damage from the storm surge(3)Damage from tornadoes "spun off" from the hurricane wind(4)Flooding.Most affected areas experienced a combination of these stressors. The severity of the storm left a significant impression on the lives of the affected people, their homes and businesses, and the environment. In any catastrophic weather event the immediate concerns revolve around preservation of human life. Secondary to this is the physical recovery of the affected area. The Environmental Protection Agency's effort in the wake of Katrina was to minimize and mitigate damage to the environment.The EPA responded with many resources and personnel;however, due to the enormity of the area affected, more personnel were needed to assist in these efforts.