Which of the following may be included in public participation for major permits?

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Public participation in major permit decisions includes formal opportunities for the public to engage with the agency, such as hearings. A hearing provides a structured forum where individuals and groups can present testimony, submit evidence, and ask questions about proposed discharges and permit conditions. This direct participation helps the agency understand environmental and community concerns, improves the information base for decision-making, and increases transparency and legitimacy of the permit process. While public notice and comment is another common way people can participate, the hearing option specifically embodies the live, oral input component that supports meaningful public involvement. Administrative deadlines without public involvement or no public participation do not allow stakeholders to share input, so they don’t fit with the concept of public participation.