The Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC) has launched an information technology (IT) initiative to further expedite permitting processes, while also enhancing transparency and public access to DNREC information and data. The DNREC, with assistance of the regulated community, previously reviewed a number of its permitting programs and reduced air permitting turnaround times by 50% (while eliminating backlog) and cut brownfield remediation process times by 45%.
According to DNREC Secretary David Small, “DNREC is an environmental management and regulatory agency, but we are also a steward of data and information that we rely on to make decisions, conduct business and share with our many and diverse customers. We need to build systems that meet internal and external needs through continuous improvement that enable us to work smarter and faster.”
Secretary Small reiterated that DNREC has met or exceeded the turnaround targets for permitting set by Governor Jack Markell, providing reliable 15-day preliminary reviews and 60-day technical reviews for most applications. According to the DNREC, homeowners and businesses such as realtors and contractors have saved time and money from DNREC’s improved efficiencies; and farmers have benefited from permitting reviews through a new DNREC program that allows them to receive treated wastewater for crop irrigation with only a permit modification.
For more information, please see this DNREC press release or contact Michael Globetti, DNREC Public Affairs, 302-739-9902.
