The Environmental Protection Agency has selected Skamania County for two brownfields environmental site assessment grants totaling $300,000.  Skamania County was selected for community-wide hazardous substances grant funds totaling $150,000 that will be used to conduct seven environmental site assessments, and in addition was selected for an additional $150,000 in grant funds conduct the same tasks at sites with potential petroleum contamination.  The grant funds will be used to assess the underutilized brownfields along the Columbia River waterfront and along important streams that merge with the Columbia River, including downtown Stevenson.  The money will also be used to support community involvement activities, and inventory and prioritize brownfield sites.  Skamania County Commissioner Bob Hamlin noted an old veneer mill site is within walking distance of Skamania Lodge, and with a clean bill of health its potential as another economic driver is “spectacular.”