Beginning in Fall 2022, the Nonpoint Source Nutrient Trading Program began accepting applications for shoreline stabilization projects. However, some of the protocols have remained open to interpretation. To add consistency to the program, an interim approach has been developed to consistently evaluate projects and ensure that they are not delayed during the process of developing final guidance.
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We are excited to share the release of the Renewable Energy Development Atlas (REDA), a resource that provides geospatial data on utility-scale renewable energy permits across Virginia. This dataset brings together permits from DEQ and the State Corporation Commission (SCC), giving a detailed view of renewable energy development statewide.
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The Stormwater Local Assistance Fund (SLAF) is making significant strides in program advancement aimed at nutrient reduction and water quality improvement. A new process has been introduced to help ensure that all grant applicants receive an initial agreement by April 2025. It also clarifies timelines, requirements, end dates, and is helping to proactively address issues before they arise.
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Navigating air permits for data centers just got easier! We’re excited to introduce our new webpage dedicated to data centers, providing simplified access to air permits for data centers. As the data center industry continues to grow in Virginia, DEQ has seen an increase in the number of requests for copies of air permits for these facilities. To provide easier access to this information, DEQ has developed an updated-weekly resource that allows anyone to quickly find the latest data center air permit information.
Expanded Polystyrene, or EPS foam, is often used in food packaging and takeout containers. It is very lightweight, does not biodegrade, and is frequently seen as litter. In the water, animals can mistake toxic foam pieces for food. As a result of these issues, the Virginia General Assembly passed legislation to phase out EPS foam use in food establishments such as restaurants, food trucks, and cafeterias.
Many establishments are already switching to EPS-free packaging materials such as fiberboard and aluminum foil. All Virginia establishments will need to do so soon. By July 1, 2025, food establishments with 20 or more locations must stop using EPS containers, and by July 1, 2026, all remaining food establishments must comply.
For more information, visit or contact Denice Rynders at denice.rynders@deq.virginia.gov.
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DEQ invites you to a webinar education series designed to help community members across Virginia learn more about DEQ programs and resources. Featured topics include water quality, air quality, a general DEQ overview, a deep dive into tools and resources, and pollution prevention.
On Dec. 9 at 6:30 p.m., the fifth webinar will feature an overview of DEQ’s Pollution Prevention Programs. Webinar participants will learn about the importance of pollution prevention, what DEQ Pollution Prevention Programs exist, learn how to ID Virginia Green businesses, find more pollution prevention resources, and ID one action you can take to prevent pollution.
Register now for the upcoming webinar. The webinar will be recorded and uploaded to our YouTube page. Sign up here to be notified of future webinars.
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DEQ will award $20 million in grants in early 2025 to reduce nonpoint source pollution in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. To be eligible to apply for these “Pay For Outcomes” grants, you must register by Dec. 23 for a mandatory pre-application webinar on Jan. 6. Applications are due Feb. 3. More information about this grant program and registration instructions will be available on DEQ's NPS Pilot Program webpage. |
To continue DEQ’s efforts in providing accurate groundwater and drought monitoring in Virginia, staff recently installed new monitoring equipment and activated real-time transmission of groundwater-level data at Lake Anna State Park. This equipment was installed in a previously construction observation well by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and will provide hourly data to USGS databases
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Does your company provide environmental investigation, remediation, and emergency response services for petroleum spills and releases? If yes, your company can compete for a contract with DEQ. The manages multiple state-lead contracts for petroleum-related release investigation and cleanup work to include emergency responses. In early 2025, the program will issue a request for proposals that will lead to the award of multiple contracts. More information will be available this winter on DEQ’s Petroleum Tanks webpage and on Virginia’s procurement platform, eVA. For questions, please contact James Barnett at 804-659-1296 or james.barnett@deq.virginia.gov.
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DEQ Land Division Director Kathryn Perszyk and DEQ Air and Renewable Energy Division Director Michael Dowd were recently elected to officer roles at the Association of State & Territorial Solid Waste Management Officials (ASTSWMO) and the National Council on Electricity Policy (NCEP), respectively. Congratulations to them both!
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