Our Mission
It is the mission of the WVDEP to efficiently and effectively carry out the State's environmental laws and regulations that are designed to provide and maintain a
healthful environment consistent with the economic benefits derived from strong agricultural, manufacturing, tourism and energy-producing industries.
The mission of the Public Information Office is to provide information to the public about the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection and its work to
promote a healthy environment.
Contact Us
Terry Fletcher, Chief Communications Officer
601 57th Street SE
Charleston, WV 25304
Phone: (304) 926-0499
Fax: (304) 926-0447
Email: Terry.A.Fletcher@wv.gov
Public Education
Throughout the DEP website are links to a variety of flyers, brochures and other educational material that you may download and print. They are in PDF format for
easier use.
Media Inquiries
If you are a reporter and you would like to interview a member of the WVDEP staff, please contact Terry Fletcher at
Terry.A.Fletcher@wv.gov. It is our policy to respond to media requests in a timely manner; however, we do ask reporters
to keep in mind that there are times when the information they are seeking is in the possession of an individual who may be working in the field and may not be
immediately available.
Freedom of Information
Overview
One method of providing information to the public is through a Freedom of Information Act request. It is commonly called a FOIA. Because the WVDEP is a
government agency, many files are privy to public review.
All requests to review agency files must be made in writing. Requests may be submitted by email, fax or U.S. Mail.
Once you have filed a FOIA request, you will receive an initial response acknowledging that the DEP has received it. The response letter will inform you of
the date the request was received, the divisions or offices that will be responding and a fee schedule.
The next point of contact will be from personnel within the divisions or offices that have the requested information. They will inform you whether they
possess files pertaining to the request and how you may view or receive the information. If the requested files are large, you will be asked to come in
to view them, and will be given information on how to schedule a time to do so.
Submit a FOIA Request
Online
You may submit a FOIA request online via our online form or by email.
Postal Mail or Fax
West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection
Public Information Office: FOIA Request
601 57th Street. SE
Charleston, WV 25304
Fax: (304) 926-0447
Youth Environmental Program (YEP)
The West Virginia Youth Environmental Program was established in 1963 under the Division of Natural Resources as the West Virginia Youth Conservation Program. Its mission has not changed over the years: To provide a challenge and an opportunity to the youth of our state to participate in environmental projects within their communities.
The program is sponsored by the DEP. It is designed to unite existing youth groups such as 4-H clubs, scouts, kindergarten, elementary, junior high/middle and high schools, FFA chapters, church youth fellowships, and others toward the common goal of Making West Virginia Shine! The program provides incentive to the groups to actively participate in environmental projects such as litter cleanups, recycling drives and tree plantings. It creates an interest and enthusiasm for preserving our natural resources, with more than $15,000 in cash and other awards including a college scholarship.
YEP Quick Links
Learn More About YEP