DEQ Communications - 14 hours ago
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality's Emergency and Radiological Services Division was awarded with the highest grade of "satisfactory" in all evaluated areas of performance, according to a recent audit conducted the Nuclear Regulatory Commission's review team.
DEQ Communications - 3 days ago
A truck driver for Bisteneau Trucking pled guilty Monday to illegally dumping material near a Denham Springs exit along Interstate 12 in April, 2007. DEQ Communications - 3 days ago
The Department of Environmental Quality is inviting citizens to participate in an informative "school" to help the public understand the agency and how it operates. An Enviroschool session, entitled LDEQ 101: Understanding the Agency, will be held from 10 a.m.-noon on May 15 at the DEQ Regional Office, 1525 Fairfield, Room 39 in Shreveport.
DEQ Communications - 14 days ago
The Department of Environmental Quality is inviting citizens to participate in an informative "school" to help the public understand the agency and how it operates. An Enviroschool session, entitled LDEQ 101: Understanding the Agency, will be held from 10 a.m.-noon on May 8 in the Pensacola Room in the DEQ Conference Center, 602 North 5th Street.DEQ Communications - 14 days ago
Louisiana showed continued improvement in air quality in the American Lung Association's annual State of the Air Report which was released on Thursday. Although Baton Rouge is listed as the No. 10 most polluted city in America for ozone, Louisiana only had four parishes that scored Fs, according the Lung Association's grading scale. In 2003 there were 10 parishes.DEQ Communications - 14 days ago
Gov. Bobby Jindal has declared May as Clean Air Month in Louisiana. May is traditionally the start of ozone season and the proclamation was made to encourage citizens to become familiar with the Air Quality Index, to understand what causes ozone formation and to take voluntary steps to help prevent the formation and improve air quality.DEQ Communications - 21 days ago
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality's Small Business Assistance staff will be presenting a seminar to business people in Morgan City. The presentation will be given at the Louisiana Business and Technology Center's Mobile classroom on April 30.
DEQ Communications - 25 days ago
Marios Papadopoulos, 44, of Ruston was arrested in Ouachita Parish and charged with 16 counts of exceeding water discharge permit limits, 22 counts of submitting false documents pertaining to the permits and four counts of negligent violation by exceeding permitted discharge limits. All charges are related to permit violations under the Louisiana Pollutant Discharge Elimination System.
DEQ Communications - 29 days ago
The Louisiana Envirothon competition was held April 12 at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette Cade Farm south of Lafayette. Seven teams competed for a chance to go to the Canon Envirothon in Flagstaff, Arizona in July. The Canon Envirothon is a multidisciplinary and environmental problem-solving competition.DEQ Communications - 4/16/2008 7:33:58 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality launched a new statewide effort to combat ozone and improve air quality. A statewide Ozone Steering Committee will be a key factor in an air quality education and awareness campaign. DEQ Communications - 4/10/2008 2:14:02 PM
The Department of Environmental Quality recognized 10 members of the 2006 and 2007 Louisiana Environmental Leadership Program for their voluntary efforts toward pollution prevention. The ninth annual Environmental Leadership Program Governor�s Award ceremony highlighted companies and municipalities that went above and beyond regulatory compliance to substantially improve the environment. The ceremony was held at the Louisiana State Museum.DEQ Communications - 4/8/2008 11:48:32 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and Atlantic Richfield Company (a BP affiliated company) are announcing the completion of a voluntary cleanup project in St. Charles Parish. State and federal officials presented BP with a Ready for Reuse Determination commemorating the successful investigation and remediation of the former Pan American/Amoco Refinery property, located adjacent to the Destrehan Plantation. DEQ Communications - 4/3/2008 11:53:53 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality Criminal Investigation Division, with the assistance of the Morehouse Parish Sheriff�s office, made three arrests in Morehouse Parish last week. Randy L. Jones, 46; Otto McClinton Jr., 51; and Roy Lee Stokes, 54; all of Bastrop, were arrested for waste tire fraud, forgery, maintaining false public records and criminal conspiracy.
DEQ Communications - 3/18/2008 3:01:38 PM
U.S. District Court Judge Sarah Vance recently denied a Motion for Rehearing in a lawsuit against the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality effectively ending the litigation at the district court level. The plaintiffs requested review of an earlier ruling dismissing their suit for lack of standing to sue. Without standing, the court does not have jurisdiction to hear the case.DEQ Communications - 3/13/2008 10:04:59 AM
The United States Coast Guard presented an Outstanding Interagency Partnership Award to DEQ Environmental Scientist Jeff Dauzat at the Area Committee meeting in New Orleans on February 12.
DEQ Communications - 3/12/2008 5:03:04 PM
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today that it is lowering the federal standard for the pollutant ozone to 75 parts per billion. The previous standard for ozone was 80 parts per billion on an eight-hour rotation scale known as the eight-hour standard. With the change, 26 parishes fail to meet the standard, or are "out of attainment," for the new ozone standard.DEQ Communications - 3/10/2008 3:05:29 PM
Louisiana has seen the number of parishes that fail to meet federal air-quality standards drop from 20 in 1978 to only five currently. However, that number will probably increase sometime this week when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announces a new, nationwide standard for the pollutant ozone.
DEQ Communications - 3/10/2008 2:49:35 PM
The Louisiana Wildlife Federation will present Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality senior scientist Chris Piehler with the Governor's Award for conservation achievement. Piehler is being honored for outstanding performance in managing DEQ's Mercury Program and developing Louisiana Mercury Risk Reduction Plan, which includes abatement measures that will help reduce mercury contamination in the environment and citizen exposure to toxic levels of various forms of mercury. Through Piehler's collaborative efforts, the public has become more educated and cognizant of Louisiana's mercury issues. DEQ Communications - 3/4/2008 11:04:36 AM
Letter gives flexibility for certain asbestos standards regarding demolition. DEQ Communications - 3/3/2008 1:38:11 PM
DEQ Communications - 3/3/2008 12:46:54 PM
Improper wastewater discharge is one of the leading causes of pollution to waterways in Louisiana and throughout the nation. In an effort to ensure that the state's watersheds are better protected from
wastewater discharges, the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be conducting a thorough inspection of all potential dischargers in the Lake Pontchartrain Basin.DEQ Communications - 2/28/2008 1:35:29 PM
In response to a federal mandate, underground storage tanks that do not meet environmental regulations will be marked ineligible to receive fuel or any other product. The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will begin placing red tags on storage tanks that are classified as environmentally unsound. Red tags will be placed on tanks that have not met required upgrade requirements or have not corrected deficiencies within 30 days of being notified.DEQ Communications - 2/19/2008 4:49:28 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality recently selected Grant Parish as the next stop for its drinking water protection campaign. "Protect Your Drinking Water One Drop at a Time" is the slogan for the program that is aimed at increasing the public's awareness and participation in protecting the area�s drinking water. DEQ Communications - 2/14/2008 2:54:51 PM
Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality entered into a cooperative agreement with Motiva Enterprises to implement a clean-up project at Bayou Trepagnier in Norco.DEQ Communications - 2/12/2008 1:26:19 PM
On Saturday, Feb. 16, LSU students from the Louisiana Chapter of American Society of Landscape Architects and staff from the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be gluing warning medallions to storm drains in downtown Baton Rouge. DEQ is providing the medallions.DEQ Communications - 2/8/2008 2:46:12 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is seeking entries for the Gulf Guardian Awards Program. As a partner with the Gulf of Mexico Program, DEQ is encouraging Louisiana residents to nominate citizens, companies and organizations that are taking positive steps to keep the Gulf of Mexico and associated coastal water habitats healthy, beautiful and productive.
DEQ Communications - 2/1/2008 3:55:43 PM
The Louisiana Environmental Health Association's 60th annual Educational Conference will be held at the Paragon Casino Resort and Conference Center in Marksville from Feb. 13-15. Early registration fee before Feb. 6 is $90.DEQ Communications - 1/31/2008 11:44:05 AM
Gov. Bobby Jindal's executive order No. BJ-2008-8 comes at a time when the public is becoming more aware of environmental issues such as global warming, recycling and energy efficiency. This executive order, issued on Jan. 30, calls for state government to take unprecedented strides in energy efficiency and environmental awareness. DEQ Communications - 1/30/2008 2:43:30 PM
This is the Governor's report on DEQ and important issues facing the department. DEQ Communications - 1/22/2008 7:52:41 AM
Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality Secretary Harold Leggett announced today that Louis Buatt has been named Assistant Secretary of the Office of Environmental Assessment.DEQ Communications - 1/15/2008 4:25:49 PM
Newly appointed Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality Secretary Harold Leggett announced his executive staff today. DEQ Communications - 1/15/2008 3:44:02 PM
A well blowout in northern Louisiana on Dec. 23 made the holidays more challenging for 25 families that had to be evacuated. The blowout and ensuing fire took place in the 400 block of Stonewall Frierson Road about 1.5 miles north of Frierson. Homes within a one-quarter mile radius were evacuated from Dec. 23 until Jan. 5 when the fire was extinguished, the well was capped and the flow diverted to another nearby production line. The evacuation was increased to all homes within a one-half mile radius on Dec. 31.DEQ Communications - 12/6/2007 2:47:56 PM
DEQ Communications - 12/14/2007 1:10:00 PM
Louisiana, like the rest of the nation, produces more garbage in December than any other month. However, all this extra garbage doesn�t have to go to the curb; you can make the holidays easier and take care of the environment too. DEQ suggests a few simple tips to help. DEQ Communications - 12/13/2007 2:45:07 PM
Jeffery Brown, 30, was arrested on Friday on charges of illegal disposal of solid waste. Brown, a driver for Bisteneau Trucking, was caught on video on April 7 at the Range Avenue, I-12 East on-ramp dumping part of a load of urea, an industrial agricultural product, in an effort to lighten his overloaded truck. DEQ Communications - 12/12/2007 10:15:35 AM
Secretary Mike McDaniel has declared an emergency regarding two 1,500 gallon tanks containing a hazardous waste that were illegally dumped Saturday on the I-12 off-ramp near Lacombe, in St.Tammany Parish. The emergency declaration allows the Louisiana Department of environmental Quality to begin working on removing the tanks.
Emergency responders from DEQ took samples from liquid that was still in the tanks. These field tests showed the liquid has a high pH level and is highly caustic.DEQ Communications - 12/7/2007 3:37:23 PM
When you see smoke there's usually fire and, unfortunately, some sort of air pollution. That's one reason open burning is prohibited in Louisiana. If you have a trash pile and burn household waste, construction debris or anything other than vegetative matter, you could pay a fine. Some materials that should NEVER be burned are:
- Plastic and other synthetic materials
- Tires and other rubber products
- Paints, household and agricultural chemicals
- Asphalt shingles, heavy oils, wire
- Newspaper, cardboard and other paper products
- Buildings and mobile homes
DEQ Communications - 12/6/2007 2:47:56 PM
DEQ Communications - 12/6/2007 11:28:37 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality hosted the kickoff meeting for the Louisiana Clean Waters Program today. The program is designed to protect, improve and restore water bodies throughout the state. One goal is to improve 80 currently impaired water bodies to allow fishing again and to restore 28 impaired water bodies to allow swimming by the year 2012.
DEQ Communications - 12/6/2007 9:31:50 AM
The Department of Environmental Quality recently held a meeting to discuss the clean-up process and the results of follow-up or sampling performed by the department.DEQ Communications - 12/4/2007 8:01:44 AM
Community, industry and governmental representatives are invited to the kick-off
meeting for the Louisiana Environmental Leadership Program. Participants will learn information
about the program, DEQ, and hear environmental success stories from past participants.
The Environmental Leadership Program is a voluntary program sponsored by
professional, environmental, industrial, and municipal associations.DEQ Communications - 1/30/2008 1:49:10 PM
DEQ Communications - 11/21/2007 10:51:59 AM
On Nov. 15, a gas well exploded and caught fire barely 100 yards from Interstate 10 near Ramah. Emergency responders rushed to the scene and an elevated portion of I-10 between Lafayette and Baton Rouge was shut down because of the ensuing flames and possible explosions. The Department of Environmental Quality participated in the State Police incident command center in the early hours by taking air samples to ensure the safety of emergency responders.DEQ Communications - 11/15/2007 1:33:29 PM
The Department of Environmental Quality and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency are
announcing the completion of a voluntary clean up project in Plaquemines Parish. State and federal officials will
present the inactive Port Nickel facility of Amax Metals Recovery, Inc., with a certificate of completion on Thursday,
Nov. 15 during an 11 a.m. ceremony. The facility is located at 3607 English Turn Road, in Braithwaite.DEQ Communications - 11/13/2007 9:59:58 AM
State and federal officials will present the inactive Port Nickel facility of Amax Metals Recovery, Inc., with a certificate of completion for a successful cleanup effort at the site. After more than three years of work, the company will receive a certificate of completion, which acknowledges that the cleanup meets both federal and state programs. AMRI, owned by Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold Inc., participated in the DEQ's voluntary remediation program and EPA's corrective action strategy program to cleanup approximately 215 acres of the 975-acre site. DEQ Communications - 10/30/2007 1:48:11 PM
EPA will offer a two-hour training session on grant writing that will include work plans, helpful hints and common mistakes made whenapplying for grants. DEQ and EPA will discuss their roles in air permitting in Louisiana so that the public can better understand the process. An Environmental Justice Listening Session will be conducted and individuals will be given the opportunity to comment on specific environmental issues in north Louisiana and offer their recommendations for solutions.DEQ Communications - 10/26/2007 1:23:08 PM
The North Louisiana Environmental Justice Listening and Training Session will be held Thursday, Nov. 1, from 12-6 p.m. at Louisiana Tech University, Technology Transfer Station, at 8028 Shrevepark Drive in Shreveport. DEQ Communications - 10/23/2007 11:44:15 AM
Statewide monitors for PM 2.5, also known as fine particles, show that twelve parishes are in attainment for the Environmental Protection Agency's revised 24-hour fine particle standards. In a letter dated Oct. 12 to EPA Region 6 Administrator Richard Greene, the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality recommended these twelve parishes be designated in attainment. DEQ Communications - 10/23/2007 11:00:41 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and the University of Louisiana at Lafayette will host "Louisiana Water Quality Conference: Watershed Issues 2007." The conference will be held in Lafayette, Oct. 29-31, at the Lafayette Hilton Hotel. The conference will focus on nonpoint source pollution control and watershed management.DEQ Communications - 10/8/2007 10:30:05 AM
In honor of America Recycles Day, the Capital Area Corporate Recycling Council, along with the East Baton Rouge Parish Recycling Office, will host its first ever Garage Sale on Saturday, Nov. 10. The event will take place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the CACRC warehouse at 800 St. Philip Street in downtown Baton Rouge. DEQ Communications - 10/3/2007 1:44:09 PM
DEQ Communications - 10/3/2007 12:12:13 PM
The Louisiana Dept. of Natural Resources and the Louisiana Dept. of Environmental Quality are partnering to change the world starting Oct. 3, one light bulb at a time. In recognition of Change a Light Day and Energy Efficiency Month in October, Governor Kathleen Babineaux Blanco has proclaimed October ENERGY STAR Change a Light Month in Louisiana. DEQ Communications - 9/27/2007 9:51:54 AM
This in-depth report provides information on how mercury gets into the environment and the steps government, citizens and industry can take to reduce mercury emissions. DEQ Communications - 9/24/2007 10:42:29 AM
Three state agencies are working together to address a marsh fire in the New Orleans East area. The Louisiana departments of Environmental Quality, Agriculture and Forestry and Wildlife and Fisheries each flew over a large area of marsh south of Lake Pontchartrain after receiving numerous calls concerning smoke and odors. DEQ Communications - 9/21/2007 10:40:30 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality recently selected Bossier Parish as the next stop for its drinking water protection campaign. "Protect Drinking Water One Drop at a Time" is the slogan for the program that is aimed at increasing the public's awareness and participation in protecting the area's drinking water.
DEQ Communications - 9/11/2007 5:07:39 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be installing electronic monitoring equipment on Blind River on Sept. 12 as part of a water sampling survey. The equipment will be in place until Sept. 20th. It will be located near the headwaters of the St. James Canal System to the confluence with Lake Maurepas. DEQ Communications - 9/7/2007 1:54:24 PM
US District Judge Sarah Vance dismissed a lawsuit against DEQ Secretary Mike McDaniel on Thursday, saying the plaintiffs "failed to establish standing." The lawsuit was filed by the Louisiana Environmental Action Network and the Sierra Club alleging that the emergency orders McDaniel issued after hurricanes Katrina and Rita allowed waste to be disposed of in a way that would endanger public health and the environment.DEQ Communications - 9/14/2007 4:45:08 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has partnered with EPA to host a series of traveling workshops in Baton Rouge, Shreveport and Lake Charles. The Louisiana Risk Evaluation/Corrective Action Program, or RECAP, workshops are free but pre-registration is required due to limited space. DEQ Communications - 8/31/2007 2:22:50 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be installing electronic monitoring equipment on Sept. 4 in conjunction with a water sampling survey on Bayou Baton Rouge. It will be located near Zachary from the headwaters on Hwy. 64 to Devil's Swamp. DEQ Communications - 8/24/2007 3:42:48 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality recognized 11 award winners at the 5th annual Keep Louisiana Beautiful Conference on Aug. 24. The awards ceremony was in Lake Charles and was part of the Keep Louisiana Beautiful conference.DEQ Communications - 8/20/2007 12:50:01 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be installing electronic monitoring equipment on Aug. 23. This equipment will be used in conjunction with a water sampling survey on New River located near Geismar from the headwaters on Hwy. 75 to the confluence with Petite Amite River near Blind River. DEQ Communications - 8/17/2007 5:29:29 PM
The Department of Public Safety and Corrections in conjunction with the Department of Environmental Quality promulgated rules aimed at addressing the real need of accurately communicating the location and type of hazardous materials and wastes that are in transit or temporarily stored at a facility that could present a threat to human health and the environment if threatened by a Category 3 or higher hurricane.DEQ Communications - 8/14/2007 5:24:05 PM
DEQ Communications - 8/10/2007 9:32:41 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will begin a water quality project targeting the Bayou Lafourche Watershed beginning on Aug. 13. The project includes a survey of all permitted and unpermitted discharges contributing to the Bayou Lafourche Watershed. DEQ Communications - 8/10/2007 9:31:05 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be installing electronic monitoring equipment on Aug. 14. in conjunction with a water sampling survey on Colyell Creek/Bay. The location, in Livingston Parish, is near Doyle from the headwaters on Ligo Road to the confluence with the Amite River near Port Vincent. The survey is being conducted to gather water quality information that will be used to restore and protect the waterbody. The survey will end Aug. 16.DEQ Communications - 8/10/2007 9:27:46 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will being a survey of discharge points to the Bayou Lafourche Watershed. Monday, Aug. 13 - Begins at 9 a.m., with sampling taking place throughout the day at various points along Bayou Lafourche. Initial briefing will be at at 9 a.m., Aug. 13. at the DEQ office, 110 Barataria St, Lockport
DEQ Communications - 8/8/2007 9:09:36 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has begun to issue, or revoke and reissue water permits to local waste water treatment facilities in the Pontchartrain Basin. DEQ recommends that theses parishes and municipalities work with the agency as it relates to new and existing discharges of treated sanitary waste water.DEQ Communications - 8/3/2007 8:40:11 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be installing electronic monitoring equipment on Aug. 7. This equipment will be used as a part of water sampling survey on the lower section of the Amite River beginning at the Diversion Canal near French Settlement and ending at the confluence with Lake Maurepas south of Killian.DEQ Communications - 7/26/2007 3:53:14 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality signed an agreement with the Louisiana Municipal Association and the Police Jury Association of Louisiana today that will lead to funding for statewide household hazardous waste collection projects. The agreement is the result of a national consent decree with ConocoPhillips, which amounts to $400,000.DEQ Communications - 7/26/2007 1:39:54 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, along with the Environmental Protection Agency, has released on-line information on the current environmental status of approximately 6,500 property addresses potentially impacted by the Murphy Oil spill in the Meraux and Chalmette areas following Hurricane Katrina.DEQ Communications - 7/24/2007 9:26:22 AM
DEQ Communications - 7/20/2007 9:11:56 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality announced today that it has joined federal agencies and other state agencies in a settlement with Equistar Chemicals, LP. The agreement calls for Equistar Chemicals to pay $178,600 as a civil penalty to the state. The settlement includes the company's Lake Charles Facility located in Calcasieu Parish. The Lake Charles Facility is not currently in operation.DEQ Communications - 7/20/2007 12:54:24 PM
EPA press release - EPA awards New Orleans $1 million for community cleanup projects DEQ Communications - 7/17/2007 8:56:31 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality's laboratory won the national 2006-2007 Gold Standard Award for public health laboratory excellence. The recognition acknowledges the agency's significant contributions to the technical advancement of public health laboratory science and/or practice. The award was presented on June 5, by the Association of Public Health Laboratories at their annual meeting in Jacksonville, Fla. DEQ Communications - 7/12/2007 2:42:35 PM
DEQ responds to inaccuracies in the GAO report entitled "Hurricane Katrina-EPA's Current and Future Environmental Efforts Could be Enhanced by Addressing Issues and Challenges Faced on the Gulf Coast." DEQ Communications - 7/12/2007 1:31:06 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be installing electronic monitoring equipment on July 17, 2007. This equipment will be used in conjunction with a water sampling survey on Colyell Creek/Bay located near Doyle from the headwaters on Ligo Road to the confluence with the Amite River near Port Vincent in Livingston Parish.DEQ Communications - 7/3/2007 10:55:46 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is seeking recipients for the Gulf Guardian Award. As a partner with the Gulf of Mexico Program, DEQ is encouraging Louisiana residents to nominate citizens, companies and organizations that are taking positive steps to keep the Gulf of Mexico and associated coastal water habitats healthy, beautiful and productive. DEQ Communications - 6/29/2007 12:35:52 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and DRC, a contractor used to tow abandoned cars and boats, have begun an enormous car-crushing, recycling effort. In the wake of the 2005 hurricanes, DEQ and DRC worked together to tow more than 11,000 cars to a staging area along the Almonaster Corridor in eastern New Orleans. DEQ Communications - 6/26/2007 1:33:15 PM
The Department of Environmental Quality and its contractor, DRC, Inc. will remediate and crush a large number of vehicles at its storage facility in New Orleans East. After the hurricanes of 2005, DEQ towed more than 10,000 vehicles to this location. DEQ Communications - 6/26/2007 10:06:44 AM
The Louisiana departments of Environmental Quality and Agriculture and Forestry are working together to remove more than 20 cylinders that either contain or did contain methyl bromide, a highly toxic gas often used as a fumigant, from an area just south of Lake Charles.DEQ Communications - 6/22/2007 3:13:04 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be installing electronic monitoring equipment on June 26-28, in conjunction with a water sampling survey on Gray's Creek. It will be located near Denham Springs from the headwaters of Gray�s Creek at Hwy 1026 to its termination at the Amite River near Port Vincent in Livingston Parish. DEQ Communications - 6/22/2007 2:08:02 PM
DEQ Communications - 6/21/2007 3:43:00 PM
DEQ Communications - 6/20/2007 2:00:57 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be installing electronic monitoring equipment in conjunction with a water sampling survey on Colyell Creek/Bay in Livingston Parish. The equipment will be installed June 19 through 21. It will be located near Doyle from the headwaters on Ligo Road to the confluence with the Amite River near Port Vincent.DEQ Communications -
Draft Solid Waste and Hazardous Waste Reports presented by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality to a joint session of the House Committee on the Environment and the Senate Committee on Environmental Quality.DEQ Communications - 6/20/2007 3:37:07 PM
DEQ Communications - 6/5/2007 4:17:19 PM
DEQ Communications - 6/1/2007 10:36:31 AM
The deadline to submit an application or nomination for the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality�s Keep Louisiana Beautiful 2007 state awards is June 15. Keep Louisiana Beautiful Awards are designed to recognize organizations that have developed outstanding litter prevention, beautification and community improvement, waste reduction, and law enforcement programs in their communities.DEQ Communications - 5/23/2007 10:30:08 AM
New Orleans TV station WGNO has taken the first steps to cleaning up solid waste generated from its place of business. The Department of Environmental Quality discovered the waste, consisting of old video logs and tapes, illegally dumped at a site on Gentilly Road in eastern New Orleans.DEQ Communications - 5/17/2007 1:18:59 PM
DEQ, along with its state and federal partners, conducted multiple sting operations in March and April to curtail illegal dumping activities in the Almonaster corridor of eastern New Orleans. Since Hurricane Katrina, this legacy problem has exasperated. The following links outline DEQ's involvement to combat this issue.
DEQ Communications - 5/14/2007 11:00:39 AM
This report reflects a three-day study using the Hawk infrared camera to look at numerous potential soruces of chemical releases along the Mississippi River industrial corridor that might contribute to the area's ozone non-attainment problems.
DEQ Communications - 5/11/2007 10:22:35 AM
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recently made changes in the approved tests and analytical procedures under the Clean Water Act and National Drinking Water regulations. The two revisions the EPA made will affect laboratories (i.e., commercial, in-house, municipal, state and federal), as well as all facilities that have water permits. DEQ Communications - 5/8/2007 3:43:00 PM
Beginning this month, crews began removing boats and vessels from the New Orleans Municipal Yacht Harbor. According to sonar readings, approximately 125-175 vessels need to be recovered from the marina. Hazardous materials will be removed from each vessel before they are disposed of properly.
DEQ Communications - 5/8/2007 1:51:26 PM
A penalty of nearly $24,000 was assessed to Shamrock Demolition Waste Haulers of Louisiana for illegally disposing of solid waste. The Department of Environmental Quality investigated a citizen�s complaint concerning illegally dumped waste at a site on Grant Street in eastern New Orleans and discovered Shamrock in violation of solid waste rules. DEQ Communications - 5/1/2007 11:55:05 AM
Gov. Kathleen Babineaux Blanco has declared May as Air Quality Awareness Month in Louisiana. May is traditionally the start of ozone season and the proclamation was made to encourage citizens to become familiar with the Air Quality Index and to understand the causes of poor air quality.DEQ Communications - 5/1/2007 11:23:04 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality received a certificate of recognition today acknowledging the agency�s role in radiation control. The Conference of Radiation Control Program Directors and the Organization of Agreement States commended Louisiana for providing 42 years of outstanding radiation safety programs for the protection of our citizens, the regulation of radiation sources in our state, and the participation in the Agreement State Program of the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission for the past 40 years.DEQ Communications - 4/25/2007 9:15:18 AM
Orders required air monitors in five-parish area to give industry, DEQ and others more information to address air-pollution issues. DEQ Communications - 3/29/2007 11:54:27 AM
As part of its statewide crackdown on illegal dumping, the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality worked with local and state agencies to patrol a notorious illegal dump area in eastern New Orleans.
The week-long operation began on March 19 with DEQ surveillance staff flying over the area known as the Almonaster-Gentilly corridor. With the New Orleans Police Department and DEQ supplying personnel on the ground, the two agencies worked together to nab two trash haulers for illegally dumping waste at unpermitted sites and to seize their vehicles.
DEQ Communications - 3/28/2007 2:15:05 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has approved a permit modification for the Slidell Landfill, though there are some changes from the original request submitted in 2004.
Slidell Landfill�s original request was to increase the height of the landfill to 125 feet, and that was revised in 2006 to 85 feet. DEQ is allowing the maximum landfill height of 65 feet, which is its current height. Based on the permit application approved by DEQ, the landfill will fill an area between the old Slidell Landfill and two cells at the current operating landfill up to its current height.
DEQ Communications - 3/20/2007 2:07:39 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and Department of Health and Hospitals were notified by the city of Sulphur that a break has occurred in the 24-inch sewer line that runs under Bayou D'Inde.
The break is located underwater where the sewer line crosses Bayou D'Inde. Untreated sewage is flowing directly into the Bayou at a rate of approximately four million gallons per day.
DEQ Communications - 3/14/2007 10:47:58 AM
Shell Chemical has agreed to pay a $1 million penalty to the state and invest $5.5 million in beneficial environmental projects in a settlement with the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. The settlement stems from a variety of violations which occurred between 1999 and 2004 and includes Shell Chemical sites located in St. Charles and Ascension parishes. DEQ Communications - 2/21/2007 1:27:27 PM
Water samples taken on Lake Peigneur by the Department of Environmental Quality have returned from the laboratory and show the surface water is not contaminated. Inspectors from the department went to the lake located in Iberia Parish on January 18, after nearby residents complained that water along the surface was bubbling.
DEQ staff analyzed the water from more than 30 components, such as benzene, volatile organic compounds and other gasoline-related compounds.
DEQ Communications - 2/16/2007 4:04:23 PM
The Departments of Environmental Quality and Health and Hospitals recently received results from the first part of a fish sampling effort in the Calcasieu area and have determined that no new fish advisories will be issued in relation to a 2006 Citgo oil spill. The first analyses were tested for contamination related to the more toxic fraction of oil.DEQ Communications - 2/6/2007 10:37:26 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will have an Environmental Justice Listening Session, Tues. Feb. 13, from 8a.m. until 3:15 p.m. The session will be held at the DEQ Conference Center, 602. N. 5th Street in the Oliver Pollock Room. Citizens will also be able to participate at the DEQ regional offices in Lake Charles, Monroe and Shreveport by video conferencing.DEQ Communications -
The Lafourche, Terrebonne and Assumption Parish Drinking Water Protection Committee will be visiting local businesses to distribute information on drinking water protection. The tri-parish committee is a locally based planning and action team initiated by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality that develops and implements drinking water protection activities. The first activity of the committee is to make business owners and neighbors aware of their drinking water source and the importance of protecting it. The committee will distribute information on �How to Protect Drinking Water in your Business,� an environmental contact list, and a �Drinking Water Protection Partner� decal for business owners to post in their windows to show their support in protecting local drinking water. DEQ Communications - 1/25/2007 11:46:48 AM
The Louisiana Envirothon, sponsored in part by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, will be held on May 5 at ULL's Cade Farm. The Louisiana Envirothon is a multidisciplinary and environmental problem-solving competition in which winning teams can represent Louisiana in the North American Canon Envirothon and compete for scholarships. The goal of the Envirothon is to cultivate a desire to learn more about the natural environment and promote stewardship of natural resources.DEQ Communications - 1/25/2007 11:44:50 AM
The Department of Environmental Quality recently issued a penalty assessment to D&J Fill, La. Hwy. 928 in Prairieville.
D&J Fill is a construction and demolition landfill that was issued the penalty in early January after several inspections revealed differing violations. Violations range from not depositing waste in the smallest practical area to failure to minimize noxious odors.
The company has a right to appeal the penalty assessment.
DEQ Communications - 1/25/2007 11:50:10 AM
The Department of Environmental Quality and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognized two facilities on Wednesday for their completion of Ready for Reuse projects in the Baton Rouge area. The two agencies issued ready for reuse determinations to CS Metals of Convent and Syngenta of St. Gabriel. DEQ Communications - 1/19/2007 3:50:56 PM
The Department of Environmental Quality was joined by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, parish presidents from the Baton Rouge area and others today to celebrate reaching an air-quality milestone. For the first time since federal regulations required it, the area met the one-hour ozone standard. DEQ Communications - 1/16/2007 1:46:44 PM
The Department of Environmental Quality and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will announce that the Baton Rouge area has attained the 1-hour ozone standard, something the area has been working toward for more than two decades. DEQ Communications - 1/12/2007 2:55:21 PM
The Department of Environmental Quality is announcing the completion of a voluntary clean up project in Lake Charles. The cleanup was part of DEQ's Voluntary Remediation Program and has culminated with a plot of land that was previously vacant becoming a useful part of downtown Lake Charles. DEQ Communications - 1/12/2007 9:41:40 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is presenting a series of 12 educational seminars at the Baton Rouge Industrial Show on Jan.17 and 18. The seminars will run from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. and will be held at the Baton Rouge River Center.DEQ Communications - 1/10/2007 9:39:04 AM
The Louisiana Solid Waste Association will once again host the spring environmental conference. The conference is scheduled for March 21-23 at the Cajun Dome Convention Center in Lafayette.DEQ Communications - 12/7/2007 3:37:23 PM
When you see smoke there's usually fire and, unfortunately, some sort of air pollution. That's one reason open burning is prohibited in Louisiana. If you have a trash pile and burn household waste, construction debris or anything other than vegetative matter, you could pay a fine. DEQ Communications - 12/21/2006 2:28:24 PM
State and local authorities recently teamed up to issue a summons for illegal dumping along the Almonaster Corridor in New Orleans East. Christian Javier Flores was issued a summons and fined $500. The truck he was driving, which is owned by TREECO, was impounded.
DEQ Communications - 12/15/2006 3:24:16 PM
Louisiana, like the rest of the nation, produces more garbage in December than any other month. You can make the holidays easier and take care of the environment too. DEQ suggests a few simple tips to help.
DEQ Communications - 12/13/2006 10:29:13 AM
After a recent review by the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, the agency has identified more than 1,600 underground storage tanks sites statewide that will require an inspection. In order to meet a provision of the Energy Act Policy, DEQ must inspect sites having tanks installed on or prior to Dec. 22, 1998. If a Compliance Evaluation Inspection, known as CEI, has not been performed since Dec. 22, 1998, the site must be inspected by Aug. 7, 2007.
DEQ Communications - 12/11/2006 12:10:33 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental recently issued a $27,421 penalty to a New Orleans business for improperly disposing of solid waste. Crescent Environmental Services has been penalized for disposing of construction and demolition waste at an unpermitted site along Old Gentilly Road. DEQ Communications - 10/26/2006 11:02:14 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is increasing its air-monitoring capabilities with a new, high-tech mobile laboratory. The Mobile Air Monitoring Laboratory has advanced air-monitoring equipment that will provide the department with instant data wherever the MAML is located. DEQ visited Southwood High School in Shreveport on Thursday to show science classes and teachers the new equipment and monitoring capabilities of the MAML. DEQ Communications - 10/25/2006 1:07:35 PM
DEQ Communications - 10/25/2006 9:52:48 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality and DRC, the contractor in charge of towing cars and vessels damaged by the hurricanes, are expanding the process to private property. Up to now, the state and its contractor have towed more than 10,000 cars and recreational boats from the public right of way.DEQ Communications - 10/24/2006 4:40:48 PM
DEQ Communications - 10/24/2006 11:53:20 AM
Garland Robinette discusses the Wetlands Assimilation Project with DEQ Senior Environmental Scientist Chris Piehler and Carlton Dufrechou, the Executive Director of the Lake Pontchartrain Basin Foundation. The goal of the project is to pump tens of millions of gallons of treated sewage from New Orleans and St. Bernard Parish into eroding marshes and revitalize 10,000 of acres of wetlands. Robinette discussed the $40 million project with Piehler and Dufrechou on October 17, 2006. Courtesy of Entercom CommunicationsDEQ Communications - 10/23/2006 11:05:38 AM
DEQ Communications - 10/23/2006 10:56:01 AM
Cleanup activities recently began at the former Thompson Hayward pesticide facility located at 7700 Earhart Blvd. in New Orleans, the Department of Environmental Quality announced. The cleanup effort is being conducted by T H Agriculture and Nutrition and Elementis Chemical Incorporated with DEQ oversight. After several public hearings, public meetings and many public comments, the department approved a cleanup plan that ensures the site will meet state cleanup standards and also addresses many area residents� concerns.
DEQ Communications - 10/18/2006 3:02:23 PM
DEQ Communications - 10/17/2006 10:34:03 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has reached a settlement agreement with nine St. Tammany entities for a wide range of environmental violations. The agreement calls for the facilities to pay the department $100,000. The settlement addresses more than a dozen violations, going back to 2001.DEQ Communications - 10/16/2006 2:43:08 PM
DEQ Communications - 10/13/2006 10:14:42 AM
DEQ Communications - 10/12/2006 2:18:15 PM
DEQ Communications - 10/12/2006 10:58:11 AM
DEQ Communications - 10/10/2006 3:34:47 PM
DEQ Communications - 10/4/2006 11:28:09 AM
DEQ is forecasting an ozone watch for October 4, 2006, in the Greater Baton Rouge area. The weather conditions are favorable and several air monitors in the Baton Rouge area are showing elevated levels of ozone.DEQ Communications - 10/4/2006 9:48:26 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has selected Terrebonne Parish as the next stop for its drinking water-protection campaign. �Protect Drinking Water One Drop At A Time� is the name of the program that is aimed at increasing the public�s awareness and participation in protecting the area�s waters. The campaign will officially kickoff with a community meeting on Thurs., Oct. 5 at 6:30 p.m. at the Terrebonne Parish Main Branch Library, 151 Civic Center Blvd, Houma. All interested citizens are invited to attend.
DEQ Communications - 10/2/2006 10:37:00 AM
DEQ Communications - 9/28/2006 4:46:31 PM
DEQ Communications - 9/22/2006 1:59:36 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality issued an order to the Swisco Road Construction and Demolition landfill in Sulphur requiring the facility to stop taking waste and to begin closure of the site. The order requires the landfill, located at 1370 Swisco Road, to complete closure within six months. DEQ Communications - 9/18/2006 12:40:06 PM
U.S. District Court Judge Adrian Duplantier recently signed two settlements that officially end a 17-year-old federal lawsuit brought by the United States and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality against Marine Shale Processors. By signing the settlements, DEQ and EPA can move forward with cleaning substances left behind at a hazardous waste facility in Amelia owned by Marine Shale. DEQ Communications - 9/15/2006 9:12:35 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be installing electronic monitoring equipment on Sept. 19 in Grays Creek in Livingston Parish. This equipment will be used in conjunction with a water sampling survey on the creek located near Denham Springs from the headwaters at Hwy. 1026 to its confluence with the Amite River near Port Vincent. The survey is being conducted to gather water quality information that will be used to restore and protect the waterbody. The survey will end Sept. 22.DEQ Communications - 9/13/2006 9:39:18 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality has extended the public comment period concerning the Slidell Landfill�s application for a permit modification. The department will accept written comments until 12:30 p.m. on Oct. 2, instead of the original Sept. 18 deadline.DEQ Communications - 9/12/2006 3:48:49 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, along with the St. Tammany Sheriff�s Office and Sun Police Department, arrested a man from the Village of Sun for felony and misdemeanor charges of illegal disposal of solid waste. Shelby Bush, 80, was illegally disposing of waste tires. DEQ Communications - 9/11/2006 12:31:43 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is seeking recipients for the Gulf Guardian Award. As a partner with the Gulf of Mexico Program, DEQ is encouraging Louisiana residents to nominate citizens, companies and organizations that are taking positive steps to keep the Gulf of Mexico and associated coastal water habitats healthy, beautiful and productive.
DEQ Communications - 9/6/2006 8:24:35 AM
The Drinking Water Protection Committee and DEQ are still seeking additional volunteers to join the effort in protecting the drinking water in Lafayette Parish. A meeting will be held on Sept. 7, at 6:00 PM at the City of Lafayette Water Department located at 200 North Buchanan St. in Lafayette, LA.DEQ Communications - 8/29/2006 8:42:44 AM
DEQ Communications - 8/22/2006 7:58:57 AM
The Department of Environmental Quality is announcing today that three enhanced air monitoring stations are now gathering data in the St. Bernard area. Chalmette Refining paid for and installed the equipment. DEQ will operate and maintain the sites.DEQ Communications - 8/17/2006 3:00:39 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality recently received notification that the department�s laboratory has been accredited by National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program.DEQ Communications - 8/10/2006 9:32:35 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will be hosting a series of community meetings to inform the public about the department�s Small Business/Small Community Assistance Program and Mercury Initiative.DEQ Communications - 8/7/2006 10:33:56 AM
A recent study on animals in Eunice Lake showed that one particular species of turtle, the red-eared slider, suffered from a shell disease, according to a report from the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality.
DEQ Communications - 8/1/2006 8:33:31 AM
The public may now access Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality public records from their home, office or anywhere they have Internet access. DEQ developed a new Internet-based search tool, the Electronic Document Management System or EDMS, which allows access outside of DEQ. Today, DEQ launches a six-month EDMS pilot program. During this time, the public can search, display and print documents dated from July 1, 2005, to the present, with the exception of radiation related documents.
DEQ Communications - 7/27/2006 7:30:22 AM
DEQ Communications - 7/27/2006 7:29:08 AM
DEQ Communications - 7/27/2006 7:27:57 AM
DEQ Communications - 7/27/2006 7:25:56 AM
DEQ Communications - 7/27/2006 7:21:55 AM
DEQ Communications - 7/14/2006 9:44:56 AM
The Department of Environmental Quality will be using a helicopter throughout south Louisiana to conduct Hawk infrared camera flights on July 18-19. The helicopter will be fitted with a specialized infrared gas imaging camera and will fly from Baton Rouge to New Orleans. Also, the camera will be used along the Intracoastal Waterway to Lake Charles and along the Calcasieu River area in an effort to find chemical leaks that are not detectable to the human eye. The primary mission is to look for emissions from tank barges and chemical storage tanks.
DEQ Communications - 6/29/2006 1:56:02 PM
DEQ Communications - 6/29/2006 10:14:47 AM
On June 19, a large oil spill occurred in the Calcasieu Estuary, near Lake Charles. CITGO has been established as the responsible party and they have set up phone numbers to provide information. Affected individuals may call 1-800-213-5540 for more information. A separate number has been established for claims related to exterior boat cleaning. That number is 337-708-7177.
The Coast Guard is the lead agency for the cleanup operations and emergency response. The Coast Guard�s public information and media contact numbers for the Calcasieu River oil spill are 281-854-1306 and 281-854-1307.
DEQ Communications - 6/16/2006 3:16:32 PM
DEQ Communications - 6/6/2006 1:34:04 PM
DEQ Communications - 5/31/2006 11:21:26 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will host a Voluntary Mercury Manometer Remediation Workshop for natural gas producers on May 31 at 1:30 p.m. The workshop will be held in the Pensacola Room of the Galvez Conference Center. The Galvez Building is located at 602 N. 5th Street, Baton Rouge. The purpose of the workshop is to explain the value of participating in voluntary mercury remediation.DEQ Communications - 5/24/2006 1:57:49 PM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality participated in a press conference with several other groups today at DEQ headquarters in Baton Rouge to discuss air quality and the upcoming ozone season.
Parish presidents of the nonattainment area, businesses, education and community leaders provided insight on projects they will use this summer to help reduce ozone formation in the five-parish nonattainment area. Those parishes are East and West Baton Rouge, Iberville, Livingston and Ascension.DEQ Communications - 5/19/2006 11:16:15 AM
DEQ Communications - 4/11/2006 3:41:14 PM
Grant Availability - The proposal deadline is May 19, 2006. DEQ Communications - 5/11/2006 3:20:11 PM
Officials from the Environmental Protection Agency and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality will recognize several groups for their efforts in securing more than $2.2 million in Brownfields funding. EPA will present the grant winners with checks at the Galvez Building, 602 North Fifth St. in Baton Rouge, in Conference Room 1051 on Friday, May 12, at 1 p.m.DEQ Communications - 4/17/2006 12:10:29 PM
The City of New Orleans will celebrate Earth Day 2006 on Saturday, May 13 at Lafayette Park from 11 a.m. � 2 p.m. The park is located on St. Charles Avenue across the street from Gallier Hall. This year�s theme is "Your city�Your world." DEQ Communications - 4/28/2006 9:01:05 AM
Except for the Baton Rouge area, Louisiana�s air quality continues to improve, according an American Lung Association report released today. The American Lung Association judged the state�s air quality based on information from 2002-2004 that was provided by the Department of Environmental Quality.DEQ Communications - 4/20/2006 4:58:10 PM
The 24th annual Greater Baton Rouge Hazardous Materials Collection Day will be held, Saturday, April 22, at Memorial Stadium in Baton Rouge. Citizens can bring household hazardous materials and leftover paint to the stadium between 8 a.m. and noon.DEQ Communications - 4/18/2006 9:40:06 AM
On April 19 popcorn will be released into the Tickfaw River for Hazmat training purposes. The popcorn is being used to represent a hazardous materials release. Citizens who notice the popcorn in the water should not be alarmed.DEQ Communications - 4/13/2006 3:22:43 PM
DEQ Communications - 4/5/2006 9:51:18 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is working with state police and local law enforcement authorities throughout the state to stop people from illegally dumping vehicle gas tanks and batteries. Since Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, this dumping is an escalating problem causing a hindrance in clean-up efforts.DEQ Communications - 3/31/2006 1:03:25 PM
The owner of a septic and grease hauling business in Lafayette pled guilty on Tuesday, March 28 to illegal discharges in Evangeline Parish in 2004. Discharging substances that may cause harm to human health or the environment, in this case human waste is a felony. DEQ Communications - 3/28/2006 12:40:20 PM
The Department of Environmental Quality will hold its first training class for owners and operators of small-size wastewater treatment plants and car washes with Louisiana Pollutant Discharge Elimination System general permits. Wastewater treatment plants with a Class I or II sanitary discharge general permit or a vehicle wash wastewater general permit are eligible. DEQ Communications - 3/15/2006 11:10:22 AM
The Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality is reporting today that Louisiana met all air toxic standards at all air-monitoring sites in the state for the first time in 2005. After a thorough review of the data from 16 DEQ air-monitoring sites throughout the state, the department is announcing that the entire state is in compliance with all air toxics ambient