GETTING ENVIRONMENTAL INFORMATION IS FASTER AND EASIER
(04/54) TRENTON--- Department
of Environmental Protection (DEP) Commissioner Bradley M.
Campbell today announced the launch of a newly improved
Web site that provides easy, round-the-clock access to key
environmental reports and other public documents seven days
a week at no charge.
"Our upgraded online-reports site honors the public's
right-to-know by offering easier, faster access to a comprehensive
listing of environmental data, without filling out forms
or waiting for the information they need," said Campbell.
"By putting technology to work, we are making it possible
for more people to get more information about environmental
protection in New Jersey's communities."
Called DEP Data Miner, the Web site enables users to search
for information on DEP-regulated sites by location, name,
or identification number. Data Miner users also can obtain
public documents quickly and easily by clicking on links
to a wide variety of information, including enforcement
actions, incidents, inspections and violations; environmental
monitoring, permitting, licensing and registrations. Users
can download reports for analysis and reference at a later
time.
For example, a citizen who wants to monitor the DEP's
response to an environmental incident can access DEP Data
Miner's Incident Reports. Or, by searching DEP Data Miner's
Pesticide Applicator Business report, a homeowner can find
out if an exterminator is properly licensed. Through the
DEP's integrated databases, Data Miner makes available real-time
information.
DEP Data Miner also provides Community Access reports.
Created to inform community members of air permit details
earlier in the application process, Community Access reports
provide information on newly submitted air permit applications.
Using simplified search criteria, community members can
get details about permit applications and a contact phone
number for further information.
The improved Web site will further enhance the demonstrated
efficiency, effectiveness and responsiveness of DEP's OPRA
process. OPRA, which became effective in July 2002, expands
the public's right of access to government records.
During OPRA's first year, the DEP received 7,665 information
requests, which represent more than 60 percent of the requests
submitted to all state government agencies. From July 2002
to July 2003, DEP averaged 639 OPRA requests per month or
about 32 requests every business day. DEP spent over $1.4
million and more than 50,000 staff hours administering the
public-records law.
Easier, faster, real time access to public documents online
through DEP Data Miner likely will reduce the number of
OPRA requests submitted to DEP's Record Custodians.
DEP Data Miner can be accessed at http://www.nj.gov/dep/opra/online.html.
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