ICEMAP addresses encroachment, sustainment challenges Published Feb. 15, 2013 By Jenny Gordon Robins Public Affairs ROBINS AFB, Ga. -- Understanding the current and future picture of Robins Air Force Base and its impact on the region in several key areas was the focus of an ICEMAP visit last week by Marstel Day, an environmental conservation and consulting firm. ICEMAP, or Installation Complex Encroachment Management Action Plan, is part of an Air Force encroachment management initiative. It identifies opportunities where base leaders can work with local communities, regional agencies and elected officials to address encroachment and sustainment challenges facing their installations. Robins is the second Air Force Materiel Command base to be selected for ICEMAP; the first was Tinker Air Force Base, Okla. "The concept is to not just look at planning at the base level, but to involve the regional community," said Hayden Hinton, 78th Civil Engineer Group community planner. "Robins is not an entity unto itself with an operation; we have a bigger role in the community and state." During the visit, ICEMAP team members met with leaders and employees to discuss base operations. A second phase later in the spring will include interviews with local community members. Information gathered will then be documented, and recommendations provided for management action. The team reviewed encroachment and sustainment areas which included airspace and land restrictions; air and water; energy compatibility and availability; security. They also looked at urban growth; airborne noise; natural factors and climate effects; cultural resources; unexploded ordnance and munitions; marine resources and endangered species. Looking at the picture on a regional scale will provide Robins with a broader understanding of its role in the community and support the ability to expand our horizons as good neighbors with our regional planning tools, said Hinton.