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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 8: DEQ Laboratory Monitors the Health of Oregon's Environment
Current Issues
DEQ Issues Final List of Surface Water Pollutants, First in Nation
Oct. 20, 2009 - DEQ has issued a final list of 118 toxic pollutants in the state's waters that are known hazards to human health, wildlife or aquatic species. Oregon is the first state in the nation to develop a comprehensive list of toxic pollutants related to surface waters, combined with a data-driven reduction strategy to protect human health and the environment.
Complaint/Pollution Reporting Form
Now it's easier to file a pollution complaint 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.
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.

Learn about DEQ's 401 Water Quality Certification, which may be required for your economic stimulus project permits.
Hot Topics
News
Join DEQ at a Toxics Reduction Opportunities Workshop, Nov. 17
Interested in ways to reduce toxics in Oregon's environment? Join DEQ at the free Toxics Reduction Opportunities Workshop, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 17. The program will include speakers and breakout sessions in which participants will share ideas and best practices for reducing toxics.
More information
Toxics a Big Topic of "Oregon Environment"
The fall edition of the "Oregon Environment" eNewsletter features stories about several ways you can help reduce toxics. Picking up your kids at school? Burning wood to stay warm this winter? Interested in a free toxics reduction workshop? Find out more in Oregon DEQ's latest eNewsletter.
No Topping Off at Oregon Gas Stations
no topping off ban
As of July 1, it is now illegal to top off vehicle fuel tanks in Oregon. Topping off causes gasoline drips and spills that release harmful pollution, wasted fuel, and malfunction of vapor recovery equipment in vehicles and at gas pumps.
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.
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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