About the Department
The Forsyth County Office of Environmental Assistance and Protection was established
in 1968 at the request of local industry. Originally formed as the Air Pollution
Control Department to deal with such issues as air quality monitoring, open burning,
and visible emissions, the name was changed to Environmental Affairs in 1974 to
more accurately portray its involvement in the protection of land and water as well
as air quality. In 1976, the Environmental Assistance and Protection Board was established
for the purpose of advising the Forsyth County Board of Commissioners and assisting
the Office of Environmental Assistance and Protection with topics related to environmental
management.
The goals of the Office of Environmental Assistance and Protection and the Environmental
Assistance and Protection Board are to encourage the wise and beneficial use of
the natural environment of Forsyth County, to minimize the adverse impact of environmental
contaminants on human health and welfare, and to foster public awareness of environmental
considerations.