State DEQ

SC DEQ Seeks Comments on Draft Aquatic Plant Management Plan

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) is seeking public comments on its draft 2026 Aquatic Plant Management Plan. The plan outlines strategies for managing aquatic plants in the state's public waters. Comments are due by March 2, 2026.

SC Environmental Awareness Award Presented to Melanie Ruhlman

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services announced Melanie Ruhlman, president of 'Save Our Saluda,' as the recipient of the 2025 South Carolina Environmental Awareness Award. The award recognizes her leadership in water quality protection and watershed planning, preventing an estimated 5,650 tons of sediment from entering waterways annually.

SCDES Wins Award for State Water Plan

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) received a 2025 Notable State Documents Award for its 2025 South Carolina State Water Plan. The award recognizes the plan's excellence in content, research, and public value, highlighting its role in ensuring sustainable water resources for the state.

SCDES Opens Nominations for Community Star Award

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) has opened nominations for its annual Community Star Award, recognizing environmental stewardship. The nomination period runs from February 2, 2026, to February 28, 2026.

Utah DEQ State of the Environment Report Highlights Air Pollution Reduction

The Utah Department of Environmental Quality has released its State of the Environment report, detailing agency accomplishments over the past year. The report highlights successes in air quality improvement, including an incentive program that encouraged businesses to switch from gas-powered to electric lawn equipment.

Utah DEQ Warns of Increased Summer Ozone Pollution

The Utah Division of Air Quality (DAQ) is warning residents about increased summer ozone pollution. The notice explains the causes of ozone, its health effects, and provides guidance on how to reduce emissions and stay informed about air quality alerts.

Utah DEQ Addresses EPA EtO Risks and BD Medical Upgrades

The Utah DEQ issued a statement addressing EPA's announcement regarding ethylene oxide (EtO) risks from commercial sterilizers, specifically identifying BD Medical in Sandy as a facility with elevated lifetime cancer risk levels. While BD Medical is in compliance, they plan voluntary upgrades to reduce emissions.

Utah DEQ Receives First Electric Ford F-150 Lightning Truck

The Utah DEQ has received the state's first all-electric Ford F-150 Lightning truck. This vehicle is part of an initiative to add five electric trucks to the state fleet, aiming to reduce emissions by an estimated 5.3 tons annually.

Utah DEQ Welcomes New Interim Executive Director Tim Davis

The Utah Department of Environmental Quality announced the appointment of Tim Davis as its Interim Executive Director, effective March 3, 2025. Davis brings over 25 years of experience in water policy and environmental management to the role.

Oklahoma DEQ Environmental Permits and Reporting Forms

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has updated its webpage listing environmental permits and reporting forms. The page includes links to various forms related to air quality, land protection, and water quality, with a last modification date of November 5, 2025.