The North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the lead stewardship agency for the protection of the state's environmental resources. With offices from the mountains to the coast, DEQ administers regulatory programs designed to protect air quality, water quality, and the public's health and administers funding programs for water systems, energy infrastructure, homes, and businesses to create economic opportunities for all and a more resilient North Carolina. DEQ also offers technical assistance to businesses, farmers, local governments, and the public and encourages actions with respect to environmental protection through education programs. DEQ touches the lives of all North Carolinians.
