The Natural Resources Department of the Wampanoag Tribe of Gay Head (Aquinnah) has announced that it has received a new printing of 15,000 copies of the Island Blue Pages: A Guide to Protecting Martha’s Vineyard Waters. The new printing includes 2,500 copies in Portuguese to distribute to the Vineyard’s Brazilian population.

The Blue Pages is a 54-page color booklet that provides insight and information on Island environmental issues such as water conservation, watershed protection, native landscaping, boating practices and household hazardous materials. The booklet is best used as a resource guide and coffee table reader.

Originally developed and printed in collaboration with over 20 Island groups, 30,000 copies of the Blue Pages were distributed in 2006, and demand for the publication has continued. “After the first publication, we realized that a vital part of our community was overlooked, so we sought funding from the Environmental Protection Agency for an additional printing,” said Bret Stearns, director of the natural resources department, in a prepared statement.

Last week, Jim Miller, environmental program coordinator for the natural resources department, distributed copies of the Portuguese Blue Pages to local Brazilian markets, such as North Star in Edgartown, and to Brazilian places of worship in addition to all town halls and public libraries.

The translation and printing of the Portuguese version of the Blue Pages was funded by a grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, as was the development and printing of the English version. Copies of both English and Portuguese versions are available at all town halls, public libraries, and the Martha’s Vineyard Commission. Larger quantities are available at the Martha’s Vineyard Commission or by calling Mr. Miller at 508-645-9265, extension 134.