FRANKFORT, Ky. (Oct. 6, 2004) – The 28th Governor’s Conference on the Environment 2004:  Protecting the Environment, Prospering the Economy will focus on how a vigorous economy and a sound environment can coexist in Kentucky.  The conference is sponsored by the Environmental and Public Protection Cabinet (EPPC) and will be held in Lexington on Oct. 26-27.

Speakers at the conference represent government agencies, business, industry and the public interest and will discuss Kentucky’s environmental issues. They include Benjamin H. Grumbles, assistant administrator for water at the U. S. Environmental Protection Agency, and Larry Selzer, president of The Conservation Fund.

The traditional conference will be the first for EPPC Secretary LaJuana S. Wilcher.  She will introduce the new structure of the EPPC and will be joined by two top cabinet commissioners – Susan Bush of the Department for Natural Resources and Lloyd Cress of the Department for Environmental Protection.

Panel discussions will examine advances in clean coal technology and alternative fuels, ways in which the new Division of Compliance can help businesses meet environmental regulations and how existing programs address air and water pollution in the state.

“Kentucky must have a viable economy that is mindful of the fragility of our environment,” Secretary Wilcher stated.  “This conference will show Kentuckians how to make the right decisions about the environment while cultivating opportunities important for economic growth.”

A reception to be hosted by Secretary Wilcher will open the conference on the evening of Oct. 26.  This event is an opportunity for conference participants to meet EPPC officials and other speakers.  Displays about the uses of ethanol, bio-diesel and hybrid engines and the EnergySTAR program will be part of the reception. 

The conference agenda, lodging information for the Hyatt Regency Lexington and a registration form are listed at www.environment.ky.gov/govconference.