Technical Assistance FAQs

The Center for Creative Land Recycling provides cost-free technical assistance to governments, tribes and nonprofits throughout the American West (EPA Regions 9 and 10). Last year, we helped 328 communities answer land reuse questions, identify funding sources, conduct stakeholder engagement, and move projects forward. And it all starts with an intake call. Recently, Nicole Lang joined the CCLR intake team, which also includes Devyn Rainwater, Elizabeth Richardson, and Sarah Fingerhood. We asked Nicole a few questions to help you know what to expect when you first reach out for technical assistance.

• Nicole, how do you believe your experience will help people during the technical assistance intake process?

I already provide TA for California’s Department of Toxic Substances Control’s (DTSC) Technical Assistance Grant (TAG) program and I think this experience will definitely come in handy. I also grew up in a small town (we’re talking a graduating class of ~100 people small!), I previously worked for a very boots-on-the-ground environmental nonprofit in a mid-sized town, and now live in Los Angeles. My firsthand experience with a variety of different communities and grant support will be helpful in connecting with and assisting individuals.

• What about the intake meetings/process are you most looking forward to?

I’m most interested in learning about the different projects people are working on. I often joke that I mostly “live in DTSC Land,” as I primarily work on their TAG and Equitable Community Revitalization Grant programs, so I’m excited to assist people with different projects, especially those outside of California.

• How would someone schedule an intake meeting?

Anyone who has land reuse questions and/or needs assistance with a brownfield project can sign up for an appointment via the Calendly link on our website. You provide us with a bit of information, such as your organization name and what you’re seeking help with, and a Google Meet video call is scheduled with one of our Intake team members.

• What is the purpose of an intake meeting?

My colleague Sarah likes to say that an intake call is the equivalent of a nurse taking your vitals before you see the doctor. We ask you questions to learn more about your needs, the challenges you are facing, and how CCLR can help in order to connect you with resources and assistance to support your reuse project.

• How long does the initial intake meeting take?

The initial meeting is scheduled for 45 minutes, but the length really depends on the complexity of the project being discussed and what questions you have.

• What types of organizations should schedule an intake meeting?

Any nonprofit, community group, government agency, or Tribal organization in EPA regions 9 or 10 that has a site with known or suspected contamination that is hindering reuse should schedule a call. Whether you’re at the very start of your reuse journey and need help identifying your brownfields or brownfield funding, or at the end of the process and need assistance attracting redevelopment partners, CCLR is here to help.

• What types of information should you bring to your intake meeting?

If you have a specific site in mind, you should be prepared to discuss the history of the site, any testing that has been done, and your reuse goals. We will also talk about your organization or community and any relevant information, such as the types of funding you utilize. Even if you don’t have a site in mind, we can help you understand the brownfield landscape and the types of questions you should be asking to get started on your redevelopment journey.

• What is the next step after the intake meeting?

After your TA call, we typically provide you with resources and, if necessary, connect you with one of our Brownfield Revitalization Experts, who can provide you with further assistance. Our TA team has an array of experience and knowledge, in areas such as planning, community outreach, remediation, and grant compliance. We’re sure to pair you with whoever best fits your needs. From there, there are lots of possibilities, we can help you prepare to apply for EPA funding (and even review your application!), perhaps you’ll join us on a panel at our California Land Recycling Conference, or we’ll connect you with other organizations working on brownfields in your area.

• Is there anything CCLR can’t help me with?

Not really! Because CCLR provides Technical Assistance for the EPA to Brownfields program is funded by the EPA, we cannot write grant applications, and we don’t provide funding. oOur support services are available free of charge to eligible public entities, federally-recognized Tribes and nonprofits in EPA Regions 9 & 10. CCLR also provides low-cost support to for-profit organizations and entities, even those outside of EPA Regions 9 & 10. Visit our Consulting Page to learn more.

• How does someone schedule a meeting with CCLR?

Visit our Calendly scheduling link, find a date and time that works for you, and get ready to see your brownfield reuse project propelled to new heights!