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Department of Environmental Quality


Celebrating 40 Years of Leading Environmental Change in Oregon
Mt. Hood
While the State of Oregon celebrates its 150th anniversary in 2009, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality is proud to commemorate its 40-year history. Oregon DEQ has been protecting and improving the quality of Oregon's land, water and air since 1969.

But we couldn't do it alone. DEQ works with citizens, businesses, legislators, state agencies, municipalities, neighborhood organizations and environmental groups to fulfill our environmental mission.

Our community partners are involved in many of our environmental success stories. We're proud to share some of these stories representing the wide range of environmental work we're engaged in. Join us as we share a new story every couple of weeks through the remainder of 2009. We think you'll agree, our history is something worth celebrating!
Story 6: Keeping Oregon at the Forefront of Recycling
Current Issues
DEQ Holding Public Hearings on Septic System Fee Increases
To cover the rising costs of administering the septic system program throughout the state, DEQ is proposing to raise application fees by 40 to 60 percent. DEQ is holding public hearings throughout the state about the proposed fee increases, and will gather public comment until Sept. 25, 2009.
DEQ Receives $44.3 Million in Stimulus Funds for Water Quality Projects
The Oregon Way logo
July 13, 2009 - Oregon DEQ has received $44.3 million in federal stimulus funds for 13 water quality improvement projects throughout the state. The funds, offered though the Clean Water State Revolving Fund loan program, will allow communities from Albany to Pendleton and irrigation districts in Central Oregon to make improvements in wastewater treatment systems and irrigation systems.

For information about specific projects awarded funding, see the Clean Water State Revolving Fund Loan page.
Pollution Reporting Form
Now it's easier to report illegal pollution for DEQ to investigate with our new online fillable form. To report a spill or environmental emergency, contact the Oregon Emergency Response System at 1-800-452-0311.
Hot Topics
News
DEQ Monitors Wildfire Air Quality
Summer wildfires can impact air quality. DEQ provides an online Wildfire Air Quality Rating which is updated hourly across the state.
2009 Environmental Legislation
The 2009 state legislative session resulted in many positives for Oregon's environment. New legislation will help DEQ address climate change issues, reduce toxics in our air, land and water, eliminate most field burning in the Willamette Valley, combat invasive species, and establish water reuse programs that promote sustainability.

For a complete listing of new environmental legislation, see the 2009 Environmental Legislation page.
EPA's 2002 National Scale Air Toxics Assessment provides data on toxic air
With the release of EPA's latest National Scale Air Toxics Assessment (NATA), Oregon scientists now have more evidence that statewide efforts to reduce toxic air pollution must continue in order to protect public health. However, DEQ scientists will need time to adequately interpret the new data.
EQC Adopts Pollution Controls for PGE Coal-Fired Plant in the Gorge
The Environmental Quality Commission (EQC) on June 19 adopted Oregon's Regional Haze Plan that includes requirements for stringent pollution controls for Portland General Electric's coal-fired power plant near Boardman. The proposal will result in significant visibility improvements and reduced pollution for Oregon's Class I wilderness areas and national parks as well as the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
Stay Informed with E-Mail Updates
Receive e-mail notifications on a variety of DEQ projects. Select from a menu of topics that interest you.

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