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.

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.

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 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 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.

Oklahoma DEQ Water/Wastewater Operator Certification

The Oklahoma DEQ has updated its Operator Certification webpage, providing information on training and licensing for water and wastewater plant operators. The page advises visitors to make appointments to avoid long wait times and lists relevant forms, study guides, and the training schedule.

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.

Oklahoma DEQ Office of Communications & Education

The Oklahoma DEQ updated its Office of Communications & Education webpage. This office manages the agency's brand, media relations, social media content, publications, and environmental education outreach. Media requests should be directed to this office.

Camp Sooner PWS Boil Order Issued Due to E. coli

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has issued a boil order for Camp Sooner PWS in Pottawatomie County due to E. coli contamination. This order requires users to boil water for consumption and use until further notice.

Maryland DEQ and AG Obtain $360k Settlement for Diesel Fuel Release

The Maryland Department of the Environment and Attorney General's Office have secured a $360,000 settlement with D.M. Bowman, Inc., Day and Sons, Inc., and The Potomac Edison Company. This settlement resolves a complaint regarding a 2021 diesel fuel release in Frederick County, Maryland, and will fund the state's oil spill response capabilities.

Lead Paint Inspector Sentenced for Falsifying Certificates

A Maryland-certified Lead Paint Inspector, Rodney Barkley, was sentenced for falsifying lead paint certificates and operating a radiation machine without a license. The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) also invalidated 1,400 certificates issued by Barkley, impacting numerous properties and potentially exposing children to lead poisoning.

Maryland DEQ Seeks Comment on Community Outreach Guide

The Maryland Department of the Environment is seeking public comment on a new draft guide for applicants seeking environmental permits. The guide aims to enhance transparency and communication with communities, particularly those near industrial facilities, and focuses on environmental justice. Comments are due by April 3, 2026.

MDE Composting Facility General Permit Public Comment Period Opened

The Maryland Department of the Environment has opened a public comment period for the renewal of its general permit for composting facilities. The draft permit includes enhanced odor control, drone inspections, and water protection measures. A public meeting will be held on March 24, with comments due by April 5.

MDE Lifts Potomac River Shellfish Closure

The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has lifted a precautionary shellfish harvesting closure in the Potomac River. Three weeks of water quality testing showed bacteria levels below detection limits, indicating no impact from a recent sewage pipe collapse.

Nevada DEQ Proposed Action for Water Discharge Permit NV0023159

The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection has issued a notice of proposed action for a water discharge permit (NV0023159) for Clark County. The public comment period is open until April 13, 2026.

NDEP Renews Mule Canyon Mine Water Permit for Newmont USA

The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) has renewed the water pollution control permit for Newmont USA's Mule Canyon Mine. The permit authorizes construction, operation, and closure of mining facilities in Lander County, Nevada, ensuring state waters will not be degraded.

Nevada NDEP Clean Water Act Certification Request for Rosewood Creek

The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection is requesting public comment on a Clean Water Act Section 401 Water Quality Certification for the Lower Rosewood Creek Passage Project. The applicant, Nevada Tahoe Conservation District, seeks authorization for Nationwide Permits 14 and 27 from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

NDEP Workshop on Grant and Water Regulation Updates

The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection (NDEP) will hold a public workshop on March 16, 2026, to solicit comments on updates to its Capital Improvement Grant and Clean Water regulations. Interested parties are invited to participate in person, by phone, or via Microsoft Teams.

Nevada DEQ Proposed Splash Pad Permit

The Nevada Division of Environmental Protection is proposing to issue a new Manufacturing, Commercial, Mining and Silvicultural Discharge permit (NV0024202) for a splash pad at Sunset Regional Park, applied for by Clark County. The public has until April 20, 2026, to submit comments on the draft permit.

DEQ Seeks Comment on Butte Exploration Project EA

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking public comment on a draft Environmental Assessment (EA) for an exploration project proposed by SBM Montana LLC near Butte and Walkerville. The comment period closes on March 2, 2026.

Montana DEQ Draft Dryland Opencut Environmental Assessment for Comment

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has released a draft programmatic Environmental Assessment (EA) for Dryland Opencut Mining Permit Applications. The DEQ is accepting public comments on this draft EA until March 23, 2026.

Governor's Energy Task Force Hosts Miles City Open House

Montana's Governor's Energy Task Force is hosting a public open house in Miles City on March 24, 2026, to gather feedback on energy issues. The task force is charged with providing recommendations to the Governor on increasing affordable and reliable energy options for the state.

LDEQ Releases Tangipahoa River Seafood Arsenic Testing Results

The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) released results from a seafood tissue study of the Tangipahoa River following a fire incident. Arsenic levels were detected but deemed similar to background levels and not expected to pose a public health risk.

Tangipahoa River Reopens After Smitty's Supply Fire Cleanup

The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) announced the full reopening of the Tangipahoa River on November 7, 2025, following environmental cleanup efforts after the Smitty's Supply fire. While the river is open, some cleanup and monitoring activities will continue.

Louisiana DEQ Seeks Projects for Clean Water Fund Support

The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) is inviting eligible projects to apply for funding through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) for State Fiscal Year 2026. Pre-applications are due by March 31, 2026, with funding commitments anticipated by the end of May 2026.

Idaho DEQ Seeks Forestry Representative for Clearwater Basin Advisory Group

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking a representative for the forestry sector to fill a vacancy on the Clearwater Basin Advisory Group. Interested individuals must apply by March 13, 2026.

DEQ awards $3.2M loan for drinking water upgrades

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) awarded a $3.2 million low-interest drinking water construction loan to the Bailey Creek Homeowners Association in Caribou County. The funding will support upgrades to the booster pump station and the purchase of new equipment.

DEQ Seeks Livestock Grazing Rep for Middle Snake Watershed Advisory Group

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking a representative for the Livestock & Grazing interest area on the Middle Snake Watershed Advisory Group. Interested parties must apply by April 2, 2026.

DEQ Seeks Representatives for Walcott Watershed Advisory Group

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is seeking representatives for the Walcott Watershed Advisory Group (WAG) to fill vacancies. Interested individuals must apply by April 10, 2026, to serve on the group dedicated to restoring and protecting local watersheds.

Idaho DEQ Seeks Agricultural BMP Grant Applications

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is accepting applications for its Fiscal Year 2027 State Agricultural Best Management Practices (BMP) Grant Program. The program aims to improve water quality by supporting landowners in modifying agricultural practices to reduce pollution. Applications are open from March 16, 2026, to April 17, 2026.

Wisconsin DNR Encourages Native Plant Sales for Pollinator Support

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is reminding residents about native plant sales occurring through early June. These sales offer an opportunity to purchase plants that support pollinators and local ecosystems, with many serving as fundraisers for conservation groups.

Wisconsin DNR Groundwater Awareness Week Guidance

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) issued guidance for Groundwater Awareness Week, March 8-14, 2026. The guidance encourages residents and industries to protect groundwater resources through conservation measures, responsible chemical use, and regular water testing.

DNR proposes incidental take authorization for ornate box turtle

The Wisconsin DNR is proposing to issue an incidental take authorization for the ornate box turtle related to the Walking Iron Trail project in Dane County. The public is invited to submit comments on the proposed authorization and associated conservation measures.

ADEQ Comments and Testimony on EPA Rules and Arizona Updates

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has published a collection of past comments and testimony submitted to the EPA and other bodies regarding various environmental regulations and updates. These documents cover a range of topics including air quality standards, water quality criteria, and emissions reporting requirements.

Arizona DEQ: Public Notices Revised

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has revised 16 public notices related to environmental permits and rulemakings. These revisions cover a range of topics including AZPDES permits, Aquifer Protection Permits, and air quality permits.

ADEQ Public Meetings and Hearings on Regulatory Updates

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has announced upcoming public meetings and hearings regarding various regulatory updates. These events cover topics such as agricultural best management practices, water quality fees, cybersecurity for water systems, and air quality permits.

ADEQ Launches Pilot Program, Announces Grants, and Takes Enforcement Actions

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) has announced the launch of a $1 million pilot program for heavy-duty zero-emission vehicles and has awarded recycling grants. The agency also issued enforcement actions and updated water quality standards.

Fall Creek Falls State Park Public Meetings on Trails Grant

Fall Creek Falls State Park is hosting public meetings to gather input before applying for a Recreational Trails Program grant. The park will accept comments through March 20, 2026, regarding proposed trail improvements and facilities.

Harpeth River State Park Grant Meetings

Harpeth River State Park is hosting public meetings on March 11 and 12 to gather input for a proposed grant application to the Recreational Trails Program. The grant funds trail development and maintenance. Comments will be accepted until March 20.

Scott's Gulf Park Public Meetings for Proposed Conservation Fund Grant

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation is holding public meetings for the proposed application of a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant for Scott's Gulf Wilderness State Park. The meetings will seek public input before the park applies for the grant.

TDEC Grants $18.9M for Vehicle Replacements and Charging Infrastructure

The Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation (TDEC) announced $18.9 million in grants to 22 entities for replacing 81 medium- and heavy-duty vehicles with cleaner alternatives and installing charging infrastructure. This funding is part of the state's Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Trust allocation.

Tennessee State Parks Host Free Spring Hikes

Tennessee State Parks announced their annual free Spring Hikes event scheduled for March 21, 2026. The guided hikes offer opportunities to explore natural, cultural, and historical features, with varying difficulty levels available across different parks.

Rhode Island DEM Seeks Seasonal Staff for Parks and Beaches

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) is recruiting for hundreds of seasonal positions for the summer, including lifeguards, park rangers, and other key staff. The notice highlights pay ranges, potential bonuses for lifeguards, and required certifications.

DEM Fish & Wildlife Spring Outdoor Programs

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management's Division of Fish and Wildlife has announced its spring outdoor programs. These programs include youth fly fishing days, hunter education classes, and guided walks, with most being free and family-friendly.

DEM and URI Revitalize W. Alton Jones Campus

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) and the University of Rhode Island (URI) are revitalizing the W. Alton Jones Campus, investing over $2 million in improvements. The initiative aims to reestablish the campus as a Natural Resource Center and Environmental Education Hub, with public access restoration targeted by the end of 2026.

70 Acres Conserved at Gull Cove with Oil Spill Settlement Funding

The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announced the conservation of 70 acres at Gull Cove using $880,000 in settlement funding from the Bouchard B120 Oil Spill. This action preserves critical salt marsh habitat and coastal uplands, enhancing wildlife support and coastal resilience.

Litter-Free Rhode Island Microgrant Applications Open

The State of Rhode Island, through the Department of Environmental Management and the First Lady's Litter-Free Rhode Island program, has opened applications for Spring 2026 microgrants. These grants of up to $500 will support community cleanup and beautification projects, with a priority for Earth Day initiatives.

Oregon DEQ 2025 Wildfire Smoke Trends Report

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has released its 2025 Wildfire Smoke Trends Report. The report indicates that while the 2025 wildfire season had minimal air quality impacts compared to recent years, the long-term trend shows increasing wildfire smoke days across the state.

DEQ Fines Stella-Jones $1M for 23 Environmental Violations

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has issued a $1,055,825 civil penalty to Stella-Jones Corp. for 23 environmental violations at its wood treating facility. The penalty includes $877,225 for economic benefit gained by the company from non-compliance.