DNREC Secretary Addresses Chamber Environmental Committee

by James DeChene

This week, the Chamber’s Environmental Committee hosted Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control Secretary David Small who provided an update on the various initiatives the agency is engaged in. Included in the conversation was the status of the State Supreme Court review of how storm water regulations were promulgated, measures the agency is taking to replenish sand lost as a result of winter storm Jonas and the subsequent damage to the inland bays caused by that storm, and potential increases in usage fees for the maintenance of wildlife areas.

Also discussed were the funding issues surrounding Hazardous Substance Cleanup Act (HSCA) sites and the recent University of Delaware study on HSCA return on investment, which is estimated to be a $16 return for every $1 spent statewide, and at $19 for money spent in New Castle County. The HSCA fund has seen reduced funding in recent years as gas prices have dropped resulting in a decrease in the amount of dedicated taxes paid by petroleum refineries.

The Secretary also heard from Chamber members on the need to modernize the Coastal Zone Act. This education effort will explain the economic development opportunities modernization will provide. For more information on the event, or to learn more about the Chamber’s Environmental Committee, contact James DeChene at jdechene@dscc.com.