Public involvement refers to the full range of activities that EPA uses to engage the American people in the Agency's decision-making process.

This site will help users understand:

• How different types of public involvement relate to EPA programs
• How public input can be used in EPA decision-making
• How to use tools to support effective public involvement
  
  

"Citizens are utilizing democratic processes to solve problems in their neighborhoods, their communities and their states... By participating in democratic solutions to their problems, citizens will learn more about the process of freedom as well as the complexities their public officials must face."

William D. Ruckelhaus
Former EPA Administrator
February, 2005, Washington, DC

Introduction
What is public involvement? Why is it important to environmental decision-making ?
Definitions
What are some of the terms that describe the range of public involvement activities?
Tools
Public involvement tools from EPA programs and regions and from other Federal agencies
Case Studies
Learn how other practioners used specific tools to increase the effectiveness of their involvement activities

Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
How ADR processes can help prevent - and when needed - resolve conflicts
Public Involvement Policy & Related Documents
EPA's groundbreaking policy, related documents and requirements for EPA programs
Feedback & Evaluation
Specific survey templates help you determine the effectiveness of your public involvement activities
Public Involvement Resources & Training Database (PIRT)
Find materials, training and conferences, and suggest new database entries