This media release has been shared on behalf of the EPA.
A new gem will enrich the Gippsland environment thanks to a pilot project between Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA), Latrobe City and Baw Baw Shire Councils.
The pilot sees EPA authorised officers, known as Officers for the Protection of the Local Environment (OPLE), embedded within councils to respond to issues of noise, dust, odour and waste management arising from small to medium size businesses. The officers also equip communities and industry with the knowledge and skills to help prevent, identify and resolve environmental issues.
The pilot, which began in 2017 with 11 OPLEs across 13 council areas, will be expanded to include a further 8 OPLEs across 10 councils thanks to $3.4 million from the Victorian Government.
Recruiting is currently underway for the new OPLEs, who will hit the ground running early next year after completing their training.
The pilot is currently funded until June 2020.
