Environmental Equity Work Group looks to shape environmantal policy

By MATT WUNSCHE
Collegian Staff Writer

Last week, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection announced it is seeking a variety of people, including those from the academic community, to staff an Environmental Equity Work Group.

The responsibilities of the group will include reviewing and making recommendations about DEP policy, said DEP spokesperson Christina Novak. The group will be concerned with the cumulative impact of environmental changes, such as the placement of sewage treatment facilities.

Zoning changes in the Centre Region, such as waste water and traffic management, are always regarded in terms of the environmental impact, said Carl Hess, State College planning director.

DEP regulations stipulate zoning decisions be made without considering the location of other facilities in the area. The work group would evaluate such decision-making policy, she said.

"Over the last four years, we have worked hard to protect public health and the environment for every citizen, regardless of race, color, national origin or income level, and to provide opportunities for citizens to participate effectively in our programs," DEP Secretary James Seif said in a press release.

"Helping us improve our permitting and public participation and outreach programs will assure equity for future generations."

Novak said the DEP is taking applications from people who wish to be part of the work group.

"We are looking for a wide range of people to represent various interests," she said.

The group is seeking college students and professors, as well as local government officials, civil rights activists and environmental consultants, said Alisa Harris, DEP Environmental Equity coordinator.

Harris said the group could deal with issues concerning the central part of the state, such as mining damage and zoning for dairy farmers.

She added the group members will be chosen based on applications presented to the organization. Outside facilitators will make recommendations to Seif, who will be responsible for the final decision regarding candidates.

The final group will be composed of 20 to 25 people and will decide whether to continue the group into the next year, Harris said.

Individuals interested in being part of the work group should contact David Bidwell at Winsor Associates at (800) 861-9292, or PennACCORD Associates at P.O. Box 194, Swarthmore, Pa. 19801 by April 16.