Learn More About the CPWG

The Navy/Grumman Groundwater Plume CPWG is a voluntary, self-governing body – its role will include, but not be limited to, providing a forum for enhancing dialogue, fostering public understanding and encouraging discussion about the cleanup of the Navy Grumman groundwater plume and making recommendations on outreach and public participation.

Origins of the CPWG

The 2022 consent decree included the establishment of the CPWG to enhance citizen participation during the design of upcoming remediation activities in response to feedback from residents and the Towns of Oyster Bay and Hempstead.
The CPWG was established to help advance public understanding of the comprehensive remedy to clean up the Navy Grumman groundwater plume and Bethpage Community Park and complement existing engagement opportunities provided by NYSDEC and the responsible parties.

Purpose of the CPWG

To be a forum for enhancing public dialogue, fostering public understanding, and encouraging input and discussion about the comprehensive remedy to clean up the Navy/Northrop Grumman groundwater plume and Bethpage Community park.
To bring together a broad group of stakeholders with varied interests who can represent and communicate community concerns and perceptions as remedial projects are being designed and performed.
To recommend effective strategies for outreach and communication related to the remedial activities or public health implications.

Roles and Responsibilities of CPWG Members

The Role of CPWG Members:

To serve as community liaisons by sharing information in a timely manner with community members and relaying their questions and/or concerns.
To provide input to NYSDEC and the responsible parties.
To recommend outreach and public participation activities and facilitate outreach, communication, and resident participation with the community.
The CPWG will not serve as a decision making body, it is not a voting entity, and it does not set policy or make decisions regarding project design or implementation.

Responsibilities of CPWG Members:

Prepare for meetings by reading materials, considering issues, and reviewing agendas.
Attend all CPWG meetings or notify the Facilitator or NYSDEC staff if they cannot attend a particular meeting.
Help create a respectful and constructive environment for dialogue.
Regularly communicate with community members to disseminate information and bring relevant community input or concerns to meetings.

What is Discussed at CPWG Meetings

Sharing updated information about the comprehensive site clean-up and current and upcoming remedial activities occurring in the respective communities.
Informing project progress in a structured forum and soliciting feedback from community members.
Establishing a communication schedule to ensure the timely release of information about the remedial design so that questions and/or concerns from community residents can be addressed before the remedial design is approved.

How Community Members Can Participate

CPWG meetings open to the public will be announced via the NYSDEC ListServ. To receive site announcements and information, please sign up for the DEC email listserv: www.dec.ny.gov/chemical/61092.html
If you are interested in joining the CPWG, please visit the Membership page to learn more about the application and selection process.