Local Participation

Woman at a lectern In Colorado, there are several ways the general public can get involved with air quality decisions:

  • Public Meetings and Hearings: Many air quality regulatory agencies hold public meetings and hearings where citizens can voice their concerns, opinions, and suggestions regarding air quality regulations and decisions. These meetings are often announced in advance, and citizens can attend to speak or submit written comments. A list of local and regional Air Agencies is listed below.
  • Joining Advisory Boards or Committees: Some air quality regulatory agencies have advisory boards or committees that include members of the public. These boards typically advise the agency on various air quality issues and may include opportunities for public participation.
  • Submitting Comments on Proposed Regulations: When air quality regulatory agencies propose new regulations or amendments to existing regulations, they often provide a public comment period during which citizens can submit comments expressing their support, opposition, or suggestions for improvement.
  • Educating Yourself and Others: Understanding the factors that contribute to air pollution and its impacts on public health and the environment is essential for effective advocacy. Citizens can educate themselves about air quality issues through research, attending informational sessions, and engaging with experts in the field. They can then share this knowledge with their communities to raise awareness and build support for action.
  • Contacting Elected Officials: Writing letters, making phone calls, or meeting with elected officials at the local, state, and federal levels is another way for citizens to influence air quality decisions. Elected officials represent the interests of their constituents, so expressing concerns about air quality and advocating for stronger regulations can help shape policy decisions.

By participating in these avenues, the general public can play a significant role in shaping air quality decisions in the state of Colorado and contribute to efforts to protect public health and the environment.

Air Agencies in Colorado

Air Pollution Control Division (APCD) - This state agency is responsible for proposing revisions to air regulations, enforcing existing regulations, and running the air quality monitoring network for Colorado.  

Air Quality Control Commission (AQCC) - This governor-appointed commission is responsible for adopting a cost-effective and efficient air quality management program and has the power to approve new rules and amend existing air regulations.   

Energy and Carbon Management Commission (ECMC) - This governor-appointed commission is responsible for regulating the development and production of oil and gas, deep geothermal resources, the capture and sequestration of carbon, and the underground storage of natural gas.    

Colorado Energy Office (CEO) - This state agency is responsible for delivering cost-effective energy services and advancing innovative energy solutions for all Coloradans.  

Regional Air Quality Council (RAQC) - This governor-appointed council is responsible for implementing incentive programs to reduce emissions that lead to ozone production and focuses on planning and strategy development to meet national air quality standards for ozone. 

Denver Regional Council of Governments (DRCOG) - This council is composed of local governments within the Denver Metro area which collaborate to establish guidelines, set policy, and allocate funding for transportation, personal mobility, growth and development, and aging and disability resources.  

Northern Front Range Metropolitan Planning Organization (NFRMPO) - This is an association of local governments that is responsible for the transportation and air quality planning for portions of Larimer and Weld Counties in Northern Colorado.  

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 8 - This is the EPA regional office serving the states of Colorado, Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming.  

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - This federal agency is responsible for protecting human health and the environment through developing and enforcing regulations, providing grants, performing environmental studies, sponsoring partnerships, teaching people about the environment, and publishing information. 

 

Other Public Participation Opportunities

Below, you will find currently active opportunities to participate in CDPHE decision-making processes:  

 

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