EPA holds Internet dialogue on public involvement

From today through July 20, 2001, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is convening an online public discussion about improving public involvement in EPA decision making.

June 27, 2001

MORGANTOWN, WV, July 10, 2001 -- From today through July 20, 2001, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is convening an online public discussion about improving public involvement in EPA decision making.

The agency is inviting citizens, representatives of industry, environmental groups, small businesses, states, local governments, tribes, and other groups to learn more about the draft policy and to share thoughts and concerns regarding how EPA should implement this policy.

Over the course of 10 days (including a Saturday), the participants will discuss specific topics drawn from EPA's newly drafted Public Involvement Policy.

Because this will be a Web-based discussion, participants can select the topics that interest them and participate at their convenience.

A revolving panel of experts will discuss the main aspects of the draft Public Involvement Policy with each other and with approximately 500 participants. Among the topics to be discussed are:

* Identifying and involving the public, including those hardest to reach;

* Providing information to the public;

* Creating effective public involvement opportunities during rulemaking and permitting; and

* Encouraging collaborative processes.

To learn more about the Dialogue and to register to participate, visit the Dialogue Web site at http://www.network-democracy.org/epa-pip.