LANE COUNTY, Ore. – Lane Regional Air Protection Agency (LRAPA) is transforming air quality violations into community gains. Their Supplemental Environmental Project (SEP) program allows violators to redirect fines towards local environmental initiatives.

According to LRAPA, fines from air quality violations can now fund projects focused on clean energy, nature restoration, and other environmental solutions. This approach aims to benefit both air quality compliance and community health.

“Environmental enforcement doesn’t have to focus on punishment,” said Matt Sorensen, LRAPA’s Public Affairs Manager. “It’s about the power of being creative to find a way to make our community healthier.”

The SEP program requires funding to start at $2,000, with awardees matching the funding. Violators can allocate up to 80% of their fine to a SEP project, but the project must not address their specific violation.

Community groups are encouraged to apply for pre-approval to take advantage of this funding opportunity. Projects must be conducted and completed in Lane County.

For more information on how to get a project pre-approved, visit LRAPA’s website under the Supplemental Environmental Projects section.