State of Vermont
News
Public Alert System Deployed for Sewage Releases into Vermont Lakes and Rivers
Montpelier, VT – The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation has launched a new public alert system that enables subscribers to receive email or text message notifications when sewage and unpermitted discharges release into Vermont’s lakes, rivers, and ponds.
“We are pleased to launch this new system. It will allow Vermonters to have prompt notification of potential threats to public health and the environment, and to immediately adjust their recreation plans if necessary,” states DEC Commissioner Alyssa Schuren.
Natural solutions to manage stormwater protect water quality and save money
State agencies release progress reports on using “green infrastructure” to achieve clean water
Four State agencies have just released their Annual Green Infrastructure Progress Reports. The reports are a result of an executive order signed by Governor Shumlin in 2012, directing state agencies to promote and demonstrate how we can use natural systems as a cost effective alternative approach to managing stormwater runoff.
Stowe Auto Repair Shop Settles Environmental Violations for $18K
The Department of Environmental Conservation announced today that it has formally settled a series of environmental violations against Willie Noyes. Mr. Noyes owns and operates Willie’s Village Auto located at 100 Weeks Hill Road in Stowe. The settlement includes an $18,000 penalty.
Less Waste, More Recycling: Leaf and Yard Rules in Effect
Vermont is taking the next step to reduce waste with a ban on leaf, yard and clean wood debris in landfills, effective July 1, 2016. The landfill ban is part of the 2012 Universal Recycling law (Act 148), which was enacted to increase recycling rates, decrease waste in landfills, and ensure that materials are managed sustainably.
“Vermonters can help the environment and save money by recycling, and that includes recycling organic materials like leaves and clean wood,” said Agency of Natural Resources Secretary Deb Markowitz.
Act 154 - Two Public Meetings Convened in July
This spring, the General Assembly passed H.595 (Act 154), which includes a mandate to the Agency of Natural Resources to convene interested parties on several topics.
The Toxic Chemical Use Work Group will meet on Tues, July 19, 9 AM - 12 Noon (Montpelier Meeting Room).
Clean Water Fund Board Seeks Public Input on Proposed Budget
The Clean Water Fund Board is holding a 30-day public comment period on staff’s proposed budget for next year’s Clean Water Fund using an online survey. The Board will accept comments from June 30th until 4:30 pm on July 30th. Please see below for a link to the questionnaire and supporting documents.
State Reminds Gold Prospectors to Obtain Permits For Sluice Boxes
MONTPELIER, VT – While gold prospecting is a fun summertime activity, the Agency of Natural Resources reminds the public that while anyone can pan for gold by hand, a state permit is required when using a sluice box.
Recently, Environmental Enforcement Officers and Game Wardens made contact with several recreational mineral (gold) prospectors in and around streams in southeastern Vermont. Most prospectors were complying with Vermont law. However, three people were issued Environmental Citations for using sluice boxes in streams without a permit from the agency.
Public Meeting June 29 on Bennington & North Bennington Engineering Reports
Public Meeting on Bennington & North Bennington Engineering Reports
State Provides Updates on PFOA-Related Blood Clinic, Water TestingWHAT: State officials, local officials, and contracted engineers will host a public meeting to discuss preliminary engineering reports for municipal drinking water line extensions in North Bennington and Bennington. State officials will also provide updates on the blood clinics and water sampling results. Residents of North Bennington and Bennington are encouraged to attend.
EPA Releases Final Phosphorus Limits for Vermont Segments of Lake Champlain
BURLINGTON –The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is establishing the final Phosphorus Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) for the twelve Vermont segments of Lake Champlain.
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