News Releases from Region 06

EPA and Pueblo of Pojoaque Prevent Radon Exposure

DALLAS – (June 30, 2017) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recently awarded $24,000 to the Pueblo of Pojoaque to support radon exposure prevention and outreach. Radon exposure is the second-leading cause of lung cancer in the nation.

“A fundamental part of EPA’s ‘back to basic initiative’ is strengthening our partnerships and this grant is an example of how we successfully do that,” said Administrator Pruitt. “We are pleased to support our tribal partners in sustaining their environmental protection programs.”

“Preventing radon exposure is important for public health in all communities,” said Acting Regional Administrator Sam Coleman. “Raising awareness of the danger and testing buildings will help protect Pueblo of Pojoaque members.”

“The Pueblo will use this grant to provide tribal members and administration with comprehensive environmental services, protection, education and mitigation for radon contamination, and support the Pueblo’s goals of environmental self-reliance through capacity building,” said Pueblo of Pojaoque Governor Joseph Talachy. “We appreciate EPA’s effort in this endeavor.”

The funds will be used to test community homes and offices for radon gas in order to protect tribal members from harmful exposures. The grant will also go toward outreach efforts to educate the community about the dangers of radon.

Radon gas occurs naturally all over the United States and can get into any type of building, including homes, offices and schools. Exposure to radon causes lung cancer in non-smokers and smokers alike. Since radon cannot be seen, smelled, or tasted, families should test their homes for radon with easy-to-use kits. Kits are inexpensive and available at hardware stores, or may be available for free through state radon programs.

Find out more about radon: https://www.epa.gov/radon

For more about EPA grants: https://www.epa.gov/grants

For more about EPA’s work in New Mexico: https://www.epa.gov/nm

Connect with EPA Region 6:

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eparegion6  

On Twitter: https://twitter.com/EPAregion6 

Activities in EPA Region 6: https://www.epa.gov/aboutepa/epa-region-6-south-central

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