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!