RAB Fact Sheet RESTORATION ADVISORY BOARD (RAB) Naval Station Newport, Newport, RI Background At Naval Station Newport the Department of the Navy is pursuing installation restoration activities as part of the Department of Defense's Installation Restoration Program (IRP). The purpose of the IRP is to identify, investigate, and clean up or control releases of hazardous substances from past waste disposal operations and hazardous material spills. Fourteen installation restoration sites have been identified at Naval Station Newport including the Tank Farms, Derecktor Shipyard, the Old Fire Fighting Training Area, and Gould Island. What is a RAB? The RAB is an advisory body designed to act as a focal point for the exchange of information between Naval Station Newport and the local community regarding restoration activities. The RAB is intended to bring together community members who reflect the diverse interests within the local community, enabling the early and continued two-way flow of information, concerns, values, and needs between the affected community and the installation. RAB members are asked to meet regularly and review and comment on technical documents and plans relating to the ongoing environmental studies and restoration activities at Naval Station Newport. Members are expected to serve as a liaison with the community and to be available to meet with community members and groups. All RAB meetings are open to the public. How to Become a RAB Member Community members interested in finding out more about the RAB are invited and encouraged to attend meetings held at the Officers’ Club at Naval Station Newport, on the 3rd Wednesday of every other month, from 7 to 9 pm. At the meetings, you will learn about the purpose of the RAB, membership opportunities and responsibilities, and hear updates on the status of installation restoration activities and future plans. RAB membership applications are available at the meetings. If you have questions about the RAB or are interested in applying for RAB membership contact Ms. Cornelia Mueller, Environmental Scientist, Naval Station Newport, 401-841-7561. return to minutes