TOSC STAFF                                             COMMUNITY PROFILES

 Welcome Page
Since 1994, the TOSC program has guided communities through the environmental cleanup and site reuse process. TOSC is a no-cost, non-advocacy technical assistance program supported by the Hazardous Substance Research Centers (HSRCs). The HSRCs are funded through the United States Environmental Protection Agency to conduct basic and applied research, technology transfer, and training focused on various aspects of hazardous substance management.

TOSC uses the resources of researchers and professionals in environmental science and engineering from more than 30 major research universities to provide communities with the independent technical information they need to participate actively in solving environmental problems.

 How TOSC Assists Communities

In order to promote effective community participation in cleanup and environmental development activities, TOSC provides the following:

  • Independent and credible technical assistance and education to community members
  • Review and interpretation of technical documents and other materials

TOSC provides technical assistance and education in several ways:

  • Sponsors workshops, short courses, and other learning experiences to explain basic science and environmental policy.
  • Informs community members about existing technical assistance materials, such as publications, videos, and web sites.
  • Offers training to community leaders in leadership training and facilitation and among stakeholders.
  • Creates technical assistance materials tailored to the identified needs of a community.