Who Can Get Help From Public Outreach & Assistance?

Public Outreach and Assistance Division

Ryan Benefield, Acting Chief

Quick Links

Citizens

The Public Outreach and Assistance Division provides easy access to ADEQ’s services and regulatory processes. We want to address your concerns about the environment. Our services include:

  • Your link to ADEQ – We can be a liaison between you and ADEQ’s regulatory programs. We can help you better understand regulatory matters and use the Department’s resources to address environmental concerns
  • Public meetings - The division conducts public meetings about proposed permits and regulatory changes and takes public comments for the official record.
  • Information and records – We make records available for your review. And we’re always glad to answer your questions.
  • Educational programs – Our staff can present informational programs on the department and environmental issues tailored to your civic group or organization.
  • Report a concern – We can refer you to appropriate staff within ADEQ or suggest contacts at other agencies to address your environmental concerns.
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Teachers and Students

We can help teachers and students find educational resources throughout the Department. Call the ADEQ Helpline at (501) 682-0923. ADEQ offers teachers the following specialized education programs:

Teaching programs and resources - The ADEQ Recycling Section offers workshops, teaching modules, programs and resources to help teach children about reducing waste and their own responsibility in caring for the environment.

Water Education Programs – National Project WET (Water Education for Teachers) is an international, interdisciplinary, water science and education program for formal and non-formal educators of K-12 students. The goal of the Project WET program is to facilitate and promote the awareness, appreciation, knowledge and stewardship of water resources through the development and dissemination of classroom ready teaching aids and the establishment of state and internationally sponsored Project WET programs.

Treasure Arkansas - An activity book and environmental adventure! Join Greenbeard the pirate as he travels through Arkansas searching for treasure. His discoveries take an unexpected turn as he finds riches beyond silver and gold. This beautifully illustrated booklet includes information about famous Arkansas destinations, and puzzles and games that teach environmental concepts.

Small Posters on Environmental Topics - Print these 11 x 17 inch posters for use in your classroom. Topics include recycling, alternatives to open burning, proper disposal of electronic waste, and protection in your own backyard.

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Watershed Outreach and Education

We help citizens protect their water quality through voluntary approaches to watershed management and conservation. We provide technical assistance and funding information.

Contact:

Sarah R. DeVries
Watershed Coordinator
(501) 682-0022

Send Watershed Outreach and Education an E-mail

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Business and Industry

Our Business Assistance Program can serve businesses as a liaison to the agency’s regulatory programs. We can show you how to save money through environmentally responsible activities.

We can help you learn which ADEQ permits are required, help you determine if you are meeting regulations, and provide knowledgeable environmental advice. Our services include:

For more information, please read these ADEQ publications:

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Local Government

Small and large communities alike deal with environmental matters such as waste disposal, wastewater systems and community recycling. Public officials need up-to-date information to effectively lead and respond to constituents. We offer:

  • Regulatory assistance – We can address your concerns about existing and pending regulations governing landfills, treatment plants, permits and air quality.
     
  • Environmental Information – Our public outreach team can provide materials, presentations and resources about ADEQ and environmental topics of special concern to your community.
     
  • Waste disposal strategy – The ADEQ Solid Waste Division can help you understand and reduce your community's waste stream and save money through recycling and other measures.
     
  • Recycling grants – ADEQ provides communities grants to develop local recycling programs. The grants are delivered through the state's regional solid waste management districts.
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News Media

We are committed to working with the news media to inform Arkansans about the Department’s activities and environmental issues.

Our Director’s Office responds to news media questions and requests for interviews.

Click here for news releases and other documents.

Contact:

Cecillea Pond-Mayo
Director's Office
(501) 682-2287

Send Public Affairs an E-Mail