What is a Restoration Advisory Board?
A Restoration Advisory Board (RAB) is an advisory group that includes community members and representatives of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington State Department of Ecology and local government organizations that meet on a regular basis (typically 1-2 times per year) to discuss and learn about the Environmental Restoration Program (ERP) at Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island, where the Department of Defense/Navy has the responsibility to implement the environmental cleanup. RAB meetings provide a forum for discussion and exchange of information about the ERP. RAB meeting topics include ERP updates on the status of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) investigations, Area 6 Landfill, State Petroleum Cleanup Program, and Military Munitions Response Program.
While it does not have decision-making authority, the RAB plays a crucial advisory role by:
- Facilitating two-way communication between the community, DoD, Navy, and regulatory agencies.
- Reviewing and providing feedback on environmental investigations, cleanup plans, and restoration activities.
- Ensuring transparency by keeping the public informed about ongoing environmental efforts and potential impacts.
- Helping shape cleanup priorities by voicing community concerns and perspectives with the Navy and regulators.
- Encouraging public participation about the environmental restoration process.
What is the Environmental Restoration Program?
The Environmental Restoration Program includes all environmental investigations and or cleanup activities that fall under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation & Liability Act regulatory framework. This also includes the Military Munitions Response Program and all State-regulated Petroleum cleanups. More information on Environmental Restoration within the Navy can be found at: http://www.navfac.navy.mil/go/erb/.
We Want Your Participation
Attend RAB meetings as a community member. RAB meetings are open to the public. If you would like to receive email notifications about RAB meetings, please contact NAS Whidbey Island Public Affairs at (360) 257-2286 or email NASWI-PAO@us.navy.mil. or become a voting RAB member. The Navy is accepting RAB applications. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a voting RAB community member, the NAS Whidbey Island RAB fact sheet is available here. The NAS Whidbey RAB application is available here. Download the RAB application and submit via email to NASWI-PAO@us.navy.mil.