Conclusions from the Evaluation

• In undertaking the Dialogue, EPA broke new ground. It was the first time that the agency had sponsored an on-line public dialogue in conjunction with a formal public comment process.

• By combining broad participation with the intensive interaction typically found only in small-group participation processes, on-line dialogues offer a whole new approach to public involvement.

• This is not just a normal public participation process put on-line—it is a new process altogether.

• Technological barriers and the digital divide are a problem at present.

• However, online activities make it possible for more people in more places to participate, at their convenience.

• Interactive exchanges are interesting and engaging. People enjoy them!

• The long-term benefit of bringing so many people into the process is creating a broad and diffuse constituency for change and accountability as the agency reconfigures its approach to public participation.