PA Environment Digest

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DEP Reports Conducting 1,750 Inspections, Investigations From March 16-31

On April 1, the Department of Environmental Protection reported it conducted 1,750 inspections and investigations from March 16 to 31 on critical infrastructure and in response to complaints from citizens during the COVID-19 shutdown.

Some examples of field visits conducted by DEP in response to a complaint or emergency notification include--

-- Tanker truck accidents and leaks

-- Potential mine subsidence threatening private residences

-- Manure spills

-- Stream issues, including a potential fish kill and a reported “neon green” color in a stream

-- Drinking water supply complaints

-- A mercury spill at a private residence

DEP said deploying staff in the field entails a variety of potential risks during a time when access to offices, vehicles, equipment, and support services (including assistance in the event of a vehicle breakdown or other issue) are limited.

In addition to responding onsite to potentially-urgent situations, DEP staff have also begun conducting aspects of some routine inspections remotely. For example, DEP is able to receive dated photos from complainants and facility owners as part of these remote inspections and complaint investigations.

DEP said it is working daily to improve the inspection processes to creatively and efficiently carry out the agency’s mission while the majority of its staff telework.

Even with its offices closed as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, DEP will continue to respond in the field to environmental emergencies that present an immediate threat to public health and safety.

See Something? Say Something

DEP is emphasizing the need for citizens to report environmental emergencies and complaints to its toll-free 1-800-541-2050 number or through its online Environmental Complaints webpage.

With so many people using trails and outside during the pandemic, they could become the “eyes and ears” of DEP.

For more information on environmental programs in Pennsylvania, visit DEP’s website, Click Here to sign up for DEP’s newsletter, sign up for DEP Connects events, sign up for DEP’s eNotice, visit DEP’s Blog, Like DEP on Facebook, Follow DEP on Twitter and visit DEP’s YouTube Channel.

NewsClips:

DEP Denies Claim Responses To Natural Gas Field Contamination Nonessential

Susan Phillips: EPA Relaxes Enforcement Due To COVID-19, But State, Local Governments Do Most Oversight Of Major Federal Laws

Rachel McDevitt: DEP Cancels Public Hearings Due To COVID-19

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Related Article - Budget:

PA Capitol & COVID-19 Report: PA Could See $4 Billion+ Deficit; Revenue Down $294.6M In March