Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control

The committee meeting, identified as the second of three public input sessions mandated by law, focused on gathering public feedback to shape the draft strategic plan framework for the Clean Water Trust. Key discussion points included the vision and mission of the plan, which addresses the state's water quality standards, needs assessment, and project implementation. The discussion covered leveraging Clean Water Trust funds alongside state, federal (like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law), and ARPA funding to implement clean water projects, rebuild infrastructure, prioritize low-income and underserved communities, utilize green infrastructure, and improve resilience to climate impacts. Specific required elements for the strategic plan framework were reviewed, such as multi-year water quality goals, challenges like matching funds, and prioritized projects including the Clean Water Initiative for underserved communities. The committee also sought input on drinking water testing priorities and minimum funding levels for wastewater and drinking water projects benefiting low-income residents, as well as strategies to support consumer affordability regarding monthly bills. The roles of various stakeholders and advisory councils in providing assistance and input for the annual reporting, known as the Mulroney Report, were also outlined.

This document outlines the vision, mission, values, and strategic priorities for the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC). Its vision is to ensure a healthy and sustainable environment in Delaware, supported by engaged stewardship and a strong economy. The mission focuses on managing natural resources, protecting public health, providing recreation, improving quality of life, leading energy and climate initiatives, and educating the public. Key strategic priorities include preserving outdoor heritage, supporting healthy families, improving Delaware's preparedness, creating cleaner energy, ensuring clean water, supporting safe and sustainable communities, organizational development, and providing core services.

This document summarizes a public input meeting for the Clean Water Trust Oversight Committee's strategic plan. The plan aims to enhance water quality in Delaware by leveraging various funding sources, including bond bill funding and state revolving funds. Priorities include improving drinking water infrastructure, implementing green infrastructure, reducing pollution from various contaminants, enhancing climate resilience, and providing technical and financial assistance to low-income and underserved communities. The committee emphasizes incorporating public input to shape the draft strategic plan and will issue an annual Mulrooney report to track progress and accountability.

The Environmental Appeals Board convened to address a motion to dismiss an appeal concerning a subaqueous lands permit for a new container port. The board deliberated on arguments from DNREC, DCBAC, and DSPC regarding legal representation and standing. Ultimately, the board granted the motion to dismiss the Organizational Appellant due to a lack of legal representation, deferring the decision on standing. Individual Appellants were given the opportunity to proceed with their appeals contingent upon filing amended Statements of Appeal and Affidavits or Declarations to establish their basis for standing.

The hearing addresses the serious and growing global threat of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, which harms American fishermen and coastal communities, destabilizes marine ecosystems, and has national security implications. Discussions included the mislabeling of Chesapeake blue crab, the impact of budget cuts to Noah's fisheries staff, and the role of the US Coast Guard. The use of North Korean smuggling networks to launder Russian crab into the global seafood supply chain and the potential use of commercial fishing vessels for surveillance or sabotage were also discussed.