NOTE: [PDF] links require the Acrobat Reader from Adobe.

Abrasive Blasting [PDF]
Abstract: Report on sand and other abrasive blasting. Includes process descriptions, dust control techniques and emission evaluations.
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Resource Type: Article/report

Ag Container Recycling
Abstract: Gives information on acceptable materials (HDPE crop protection product containers) and how to prepare them for recycling. Also provides information about contracted recyclers serving each state.
Source: Ag Container Recycling Council
Resource Type: Web site

Agricultural Best Management Practices
Abstract: The production of food and fiber often requires complex strategies that must balance profitable and efficient farming with concerns about water quality and quantity. This fact sheet outlines potential pollution prevention methods.
Source: The Ohio State University Extension
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Agronomics of Manure Use for Crop Production [PDF]
Abstract: Reviews the nutrient benefits of using manure as a fertilizer. Includes recommended application amounts and placements.
Source: Univerisity of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Ambient Levels and Noncancer Health Effects of Inhaled Crystalline and Amorphous Silica [PDF]
Abstract: Sandblasting exposes workers to dust. This is an EPA technical risk assessment of the noncancer health effects from crystalline silica exposure.
Source: EPA
Resource Type: Article/report

Animal Waste and the Environment
Abstract: Best management practices for animal waste such as livestock and poultry manure; bedding and litter; feedlot runoff; silage juices from trench silos; and wasted feed. These wastes can affect water quality if proper practices are not followed.
Source: Georgia Cooperative Extension Service
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Anti-freeze Recycling [PDF]
Abstract: Describes methods for recycling anti-freeze and justification for recycling it. Compares on-site recycling, mobile recycling service, and off-site recycling.
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9
Resource Type: Chapter

Aqueous Cleaning Solutions [PDF]
Abstract: Aqueous cleaning is a cost effective alternative to chlorinated solvents. This paper describes options and explains how aqueous units work. It also gives case studies.
Source: U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9
Resource Type: Chapter

Arc Welding Safety [PDF]
Abstract: Suggestions and guidelines for minimizing risks when using arc welders.
Source: The University of Arizona Cooperative Extension
Resource Type: Article/report

Automotive and Engine Products
Abstract: Simple steps to manage motor oil, antifreeze and gasoline used in cars, lawnmowers and small machinery.
Source: King County
Resource Type: Article/report

Chemicals Commonly Associated with Welding, Cutting and Brazing
Abstract: This list identifies the chemicals used and links each chemical to the corresponding entry in the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Chemical Sampling Guide giving exposure levels, health risks, and monitoring information.
Source: Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA)
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Closed Insulated Pallet Systems for Greenhouses and Nurseries [PDF]
Abstract: The Closed, Insulated Pallet System (CIPS) is an alternative to traditional nursery and greenhouse practices for producing container-grown plants. Reduces use of herbicides; eliminates water run-off or leaching in production areas; reduces and conserves water, fertilizers; reduces the single-use of plastic plant containers and polyethylene plastic film for overwinter protection covers; and reduces heat energy required in greenhouse crop production.
Source: Briggs Nursery
Resource Type: Article/report

Composting Training Manual [PDF]
Abstract: Composting can significantly reduce the solid waste stream and improve soil for healthy plants. Manual includes information on organizing a "Master Composter Training" and includes the training guide.
Source: Alameda County Source Reduction and Recycling Board
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

Conservation Tillage Facts
Abstract: Describes what it is, how it helps and what crops can most likely benefit. Also links to more detailed information.
Source: Conservation Technology Information Center (CTIC)
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Control Technology Assessment for the Welding Operations
Abstract: Results of a study to identify, observe, and evaluate measures which may reduce the amount of fumes a worker is exposed to during welding. The goals of the study were to measure fume exposures during stainless steel welding, using different rod types and rod diameters, and to evaluate the effect of local exhaust ventilation during outdoor welding operations.
Source: Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA)
Resource Type: Article/report

Dead Animal Disposal Laws in Missouri
Abstract: Gives various options for disposal of carcasses based on Missouri's guidelines
Source: Missouri Extension Service
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Definition of Pollution Prevention
Abstract: Pollution Prevention is any activity that reduces or eliminates pollutants prior to recycling, treatment, control or disposal. Such activities are: good housekeeping, inventory control, in-process recycling, product substitution, process changes, and waste segregation.
Source: U.S. EPA
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Developing a Coolant Maintenance Program for Machining Operations
Abstract: The conventional practice of discarding and replacing once-used coolants is costly and wasteful. A coolant maintenance program can help minimize contamination, prolong coolant life, and reduce frequency of disposal.
Source: Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Efficient Wood Use in Residential Construction
Abstract: Describes the advantages of several wood-efficient approaches to design, material selection, and construction in residential applications.
Source: Natural Resources Defense Council
Resource Type: Article/report

Energy Star for Schools
Abstract: Tools for schools to measure recent energy performance and estimate potential for improvement with resources to help improve energy efficiency.
Source: EPA
Resource Type: Web site

Environmental Management Systems: An Implementation Guide for Small and Medium-Sized Businesses
Abstract: Describes how to take a systematic approach to attaining environmental and organizational goals.
Source: U.S. EPA
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

Environmental, Health & Safety Issues Involving the Burlington, MA Public School System
Abstract: Extensive review of environmental and health and safety (EHS) issues involving the Burlington, Massachusetts public school system.
Source: Burlington Board of Health
Resource Type: Case study/success story

Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Guide
Abstract: A reference for government and school purchasers who want to make wiser purchasing choices. Purchasing environmentally preferable products can reduce workplace hazards, reduce energy use, and protect natural resources. Alternatives in over 30 product areas are offered, providing cost and performance information.
Source: Minnesota Solid Waste Management Coordinating Board
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

Farm *A* Syst
Abstract: Farm*A*Syst is a partnership between government agencies and private business to educate landowners and managers about preventing pollution on farms, ranches, and in homes.
Source: University of Wisconsin
Resource Type: Web site

Floor Cleanup [PDF]
Abstract: Floor drains are common sources of pollution and regulatory violations. This publication identifies reasons, methods and equipment for adopting a "dry shop" policy for shop floor cleanup.
Source: U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 9
Resource Type: Chapter

Guide to Cleaner Technologies - Alternatives to Chlorinated Solvents [PDF]
Abstract: Elimination or reduction of the use of chlorinated cleaning and degreasing solvents is the main focus of the technologies covered in the Guide.
Source: U. S. Environmental Protection Agency
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

Guides to Pollution Prevention - Research and Educational Institutions [PDF]
Abstract: This guide provides an overview of waste generating processes and operations which occur in educational or research institutions. The guide also presents options for minimizing waste generation through source reduction and recycling.
Source: U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Resource Type: Article/report

Healthy Schools for Healthy Kids [PDF]
Abstract: This 47 page report gives strategies to improve the environmental health of schools. It identifies 10 environmental health issues in Oregon schools and outlines recommended ways to address them.
Source: Oregon Environmental Council
Resource Type: Article/report

Household Hazardous Waste Handling Procedures to Prevent Environmental Contamination [PDF]
Abstract: Guide for proper handling and disposal of various types of potentially dangerous household chemical wastes including many wastes commonly used in agricultural and vocational teaching situations.
Source: Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

IAQ Tools for Schools
Abstract: Guidance to prevent and solve, with minimal cost and involvement, the majority of indoor air problems. Presents a well-defined set of operations and maintenance activities for school staff to follow.
Source: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

Idaho Waste Management Guidelines for Confined Feeding Operations [PDF]
Abstract: Information to help managers and regulators of confined animal feeding operations understand management practices and design criteria which prevent water pollution.
Source: Idaho Department of Health and Welfare - Division of Environmental Quality
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

Identifying Your Waste: The Starting Point [PDF]
Abstract: Explains the methodology for identifying hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Also gives the RCRA Hotline contact information for questions about specific wastes.
Source: Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

IPM for Pennsylvania Schools
Abstract: Integrated Pest Manament (IPM) uses information about pests’ life cycles to manage them with the least impact on people and the environment. This manual encourages schools to develop IPM programs and train their personnel to become familiar with IPM practices.
Source: Pennsylvania State University
Resource Type: Article/report

Irrigation Systems and Water Application Efficiencies
Abstract: Water application efficiency is an irrigation concept that is important both in system selection and design and in irrigation management. This paper gives an overview of various systems covering water losses, uniformity, and crop response
Source: Center for Irrigation Technology
Resource Type: Article/report

Laboratory Self-Audit and Preferred Practices
Abstract: Using these on-line guides will help educators who manage teaching laboratories examine how they currently prevent pollution, manage waste, and make decisions about how to improve their facilities.
Source: Peaks to Prairies Pollution Prevention Information Center
Resource Type: Article/report

Laboratory Waste Minimization and Pollution Prevention: A Guide for Teachers
Abstract: Explains how to minimize the hazardous wastes and other undesirable by-products generated by experiments performed in classroom laboratories. It is intended for middle school, high school, and college science teachers.
Source: Battelle Seattle Research Center
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

Managing Nonpoint Source Pollution from Agriculture
Abstract: Nonpoint source (NPS) pollution from agricultural activities is the leading source of impairment to surveyed rivers and lakes, the third largest source of impairments to surveyed estuaries, and also a major contributor to ground water contamination and wetlands degradation. This is an overview of activities and causes.
Source: EPA Office of Water
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Material Safety Data Sheet Fact Sheet
Abstract: As environmental regulations expand in scope and influence, it is important to manage materials pro-actively. An MSDS is a tool for evaluating products used in a lab and also for evaluating their potential risks.
Source: Montana Pollution Prevention Program
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Materials Exchanges on the Web
Abstract: A database of both U.S. and international materials exchanges. The database can be sorted by name, state or country. New material exchanges can also be added.
Source: Southern Waste Information eXchange, Inc. (SWIX)
Resource Type: List

Mercury in Schools
Abstract: Identifies why mercury is an important concern, where it is commonly found in schools and what can be done about it. Includes references to checklists and fact sheets on specific issues.
Source: University of Wisconsin's Solid and Hazardous Waste Education Center (SHWEC)
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

NIOSH Pocket Guide to Chemical Hazards
Abstract: Intended as a source of general industrial hygiene information on several hundred chemicals/classes for workers, employers, and occupational health professionals. The information should help users recognize and control occupational chemical hazards.
Source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

Occupational Noise Exposure
Abstract: Provides a recommended standard for reducing the risk of developing permanent hearing loss that results from exposure to occupational noise. This evaluation goes beyond attempting to conserve hearing by focusing on preventing occupational noise-induced hearing loss.
Source: National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Resource Type: Article/report

Paints, Solvents and Wood Preservatives
Abstract: Oil-based paint, thinners, strippers, and wood preservatives contain volatile hydrocarbons and other toxic chemicals. This fact sheet lists alternatives.
Source: Washington Toxics Coalition
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Pesticide Handling, Use and Storage
Abstract: Includes documents about pesticide handling and discharge response, general safety guidelines, and guidelines for pesticide storage and disposal.
Source: South Dakota Department of Agriculture Pesticide Program
Resource Type: Other resources

Pesticides and Schools -- Parent Notification
Abstract: How to monitor and notify the public of pesticide use around school facilities, required by law in Washington State.
Source: King County
Resource Type: Article/report

Pollution Prevention in Business
Abstract: Discusses pollution revention strategies for small businesses. Many applications are equally important in educational facilities.
Source: University of Nebraska Extension Service
Resource Type: Article/report

Practice Pollution Prevention at School
Abstract: Pollution Prevention suggestions for use in schools.
Source: MIchigan Department of Environmental Quality
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Preventing Silicosis and Deaths in Construction Workers
Abstract: National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Alert outlines health risks, gives case studies of good and bad dust control and makes recommendations for reducing health risks.
Source: National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Resource Type: Article/report

Recycling Programs in Schools [PDF]
Abstract: Overview and outline of suggested methods to use when setting up a recycling program for a school.
Source: Maine State Planning Office
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Six Steps for a Successful Paint Project
Abstract: Guidance for purchasing the right amount of paint for a project. Also provides information about choosing the right paint, using it safely and what to do at the end of a project.
Source: King County Local Hazardous Waste Program
Resource Type: Article/report

Small Business Waste Reduction Guide
Abstract: Overview, tip sheets, case studies, checklists and regulations pertaining to many teaching lab activities -- building trades, groundskeeping, ag business, health care (vet clinics), coating and painting, metal fabrication and machining, vehicle maintenance. Go to the "Detailed Table of Contents" to go directly to the section you want.
Source: University of Wisconsin - Extension
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

Source Water Protection Practices Bulletins
Abstract: A series of fact sheets on best management practices (BMPs) for activities that are likely to impact drinking water sources. Topics include: agricultural fertilizers, storage tanks, vehicle washing, small scale application of pesticides and more. The fact sheets are also used in conjunction with a source water protection training course (contact information given).
Source: U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Steel Recycling
Abstract: Links to publications and a general fact sheet about steel recycling, a curriculum for kindergarten through grade 12 students, and a database to find steel recycling centers near any community.
Source: Steel Recycling Institute
Resource Type: Web site

Sustainable Small Scale Nursery Production [PDF]
Abstract: Focuses on sustainable production of nursery plants not only in the field but also in containers. Some of the topics covered include integrated pest management, weed control and alternative fertilizers. Topics related to business management are also introduced.
Source: Appropriate Technology Transfer for Rural Areas (ATTRA)
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

The New American Farmer
Abstract: A 160-page collection of in-depth interviews with farmers and ranchers describing their diverse operations, profitability, quality of life, and impact on the environment.
Source: Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education program (USDA-SARE)
Resource Type: Case study/success story

Urban Integrated Pest Management
Abstract: Integrated pest management (IPM) is the balanced use of all available pest control methods. The goal is to maintain acceptable quality and productivity while minimizing costs and adverse effects on the environment.
Source: North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service
Resource Type: Article/report

Used Motor Oil Collection and Recycling
Abstract: Outlines benefits of recycling; how to find a collection site near you; how to prepare used oil for recycling. Also provides other useful links.
Source: American Petroleum Institute
Resource Type: Article/report

Using Solvents Safely
Abstract: Describes safe work methods, health concerns, solvent management approaches and gives references.
Source: Hazard Evaluation System and Information Service (HESIS)
Resource Type: Article/report

Vocational Education in the United States: Toward the Year 2000 [PDF]
Abstract: Describes trends in participation in secondary and postsecondary vocational education. Also presents findings about the academic preparation of high school students who participate in vocational education, relevant school reform efforts, and transitions after high school.
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Resource Type: Article/report

Waste Minimization Priority Chemicals & Chemical Fact Sheets
Abstract: Series of fact sheets providing information about 30 chemicals EPA has identified for priority voluntary waste minimization. The list includes 27 organic chemicals and 3 metals commonly used in pesticides, solvents and other products.
Source: U. S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Water Quality Handbook for Nurseries
Abstract: A guide to utilizing best management practices (BMPs) in the nursery to produce quality plants while protecting water quality.
Source: Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

Welding Safety on the Farm
Abstract: Covers safety and health concerns and equipment and practices for safer welding.
Source: University of Maine Cooperative Extension Service
Resource Type: Fact sheet/checklist

Yard and Garden Care: How it Affects Your Health and Environment
Abstract: Drawn from the Home*A*Syst program, this guide covers soil testing, lawn type and maintenance, fertilizers and pesticides, ground covers and erosion protection, composting, and water conservation. Helps identify and evaluate pollution risks and gives tips for reducing those risks.
Source: University of Missouri Extension Service
Resource Type: Manual/handbook/curriculum

The P2Rx Topic Hub Project was developed by:

The Agricultural Teaching Labs Topic Hub was developed by: Peaks to Prairies Contact Laura Estes (Peaks) 406-994-3451 or laurae@montana.edu