Fort Bliss recognized for environmental efforts

Apr 20 - McClatchy-Tribune Regional News - Chris Roberts El Paso Times, Texas

Fort Bliss' environmental "bootprint" -- even during an unprecedented expansion as it transforms into a major armor and light infantry post -- has provided a model of sustainability, say Pentagon officials.

The post has been recognized for protecting both environmental and cultural resources.

Fort Bliss was chosen as an integrated "Pilot Net Zero Installation," along with Fort Carson, Colo., which means it will intensify its efforts to locally produce all the energy it needs, reduce water consumption and eliminate its contribution to area landfills. The post was also awarded the Secretary of Defense's Cultural Resources Management award. That award recognizes efforts to protect archaeological sites and historic buildings, structures and landscapes on the post's 1.12 million acres, which includes training ranges that stretch into New Mexico.

"I am pleased that the Army has recognized the ongoing work at Fort Bliss and in El Paso to conserve resources while achieving the Army's mission," said U.S. Rep. Silvestre Reyes, D-Texas, in a statement. "Fort Bliss remains the top post for the development and testing of new energy, water and waste technologies."

Maj. Gen. Dana Pittard, the post commander, accelerated a plan to make the post energy-independent by moving the deadline from 2025 to the end of 2015. The plan targets a variety of energy sources, including solar, wind, geothermal and biomass, as well as relying on conservation measures.

"It's one of Gen. Pittard's

highest priorities," said Maj. Myles Caggins, post spokesman. Fort Bliss was chosen "because there was a lot of groundwork in place and a commitment by Fort Bliss leaders for the past few years toward this Net Zero concept."

The movement toward energy independence was initiated by Lt. Gen. Howard Bromberg, the previous post commander.

Part of the military's motivation is operational security, which involves making it difficult for outside forces to shut down a post as well as minimizing reliance on outside resources. Some of the lessons learned at these posts are expected to translate into security gains for soldiers serving in combat zones. In Iraq, much of the damage to life and property was exacted on supply convoys carrying water, fuel and other supplies to forward operating bases.

"We are creating a culture that recognizes the value of sustainability measured not just in terms of financial benefits, but benefits to maintaining mission capability, quality of life, relationships with local communities and the preservation of options for the Army's future," states a description of Net Zero on the Army's website.

And as thousands of soldiers arrive who could soon be deployed to Afghanistan or other conflicts, the Army is investing millions of dollars in improvements to training ranges.

The Cultural Resources Management award recognizes the post's handling of more than 19,000 archaeological sites and more than 400 historic buildings that are part of its 160-year history. In conjunction with state historic preservation officers and others, the post has created a "stringent" evaluation process that quickly determines whether a site requires protection, according to award documentation.

Fort Bliss' Integrated Cultural Resources Management Plan "addresses all aspects of cultural resource management" and can be used as a model by other Army installations, the document states.

Chris Roberts may be reached at chrisr@elpasotimes.com; 546-6136.