Established in 2001 by the Virginia U.S. Attorney, the Blue Ridge Environmental Task Force’s mission is to protect the quality of Virginia’s natural resources, striving to facilitate the communication, information sharing, and coordination of enforcement efforts among several Federal, State, and local regulatory and law enforcement agencies. The task force helps municipalities solve environmental problems and develops protocols and strategies to assist local lenders in dealing with environmental hazards. No individual or corporation is immune to their aggressive enforcement. Task force members receive specialized training that allows them to properly investigate and respond to suspected violations of environmental laws. Local police have an important role in protecting the environment. This article presents the efforts of one region in Virginia. Notes