Discussion on accessing government environmental records

[Bill Bushey]

Hi Everybody,

The Minnesota Coalition on Government Information (MNCOGI) will be hosting a discussion of experiences and how tos around accessing environmental data and records held by local and state government. This May 31st lunch event will be free and open to the public, with lunch provided to those who RSVP. Below is the event description, which you can also read on the event's registration page.

Cheers,

Bill

Environmental Records and Government Data Cogitation

 

When:	Wednesday, May 31, 2017, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:45 p.m.
Where:	Rondo Community Outreach Library 461 Dale Street North Saint Paul, MN 55104
Register:	Click Here

Effective environmental protection begins with information, much of it in the files of government agencies. By state and federal law, Minnesota citizens have broad rights to view those files. In practice, how are those laws working? Can concerned citizens get ready access to the files in a clear, timely and affordable manner?

Please join the Minnesota Coalition on Government Information for a discussion of the law, current practice and public policy options regarding public access to environmental records. The session will provide practical, expert information to help inform journalists, lawmakers and the concerned public.

Panelists are:

• Alicia Kubas, Government Publications and Regional Depository Librarian at the University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, main organizer for a DataRescue-Twin Cities event in Minneapolis, MN.
• Kathryn Hoffman, Executive Director of the Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy
• Don Gemberling, the state’s top expert on the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act

Star Tribune Reporter Tom Meersman will moderate.

Free lunches will be served; attendance will be limited, so please reserve your space today.