About the Department
The Forsyth County Environmental Affairs Department 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 Affairs Board was established for the purpose of advising the
Forsyth County Board of Commissioners and assisting the Environmental Affairs Department
with topics related to environmental management.
The goals of the Environmental Affairs Department and Environmental Affairs 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.