Annual Georgia Environmental Conference 2026

Troutman Pepper Locke environmental attorneys James Beers, Melissa Horne, Mack McGuffey, and Karlie Webb will be attending and speaking at the Annual Georgia Environmental Conference, held at the Jekyll Island Convention Center in Jekyll Island, Georgia.

Panels and Information

Wednesday, August 19

Data Center Permitting Challenges 2:50 p.m. – 3:50 p.m.

• Troutman Speaker: Mack McGuffey

• Description: This talk will discuss the challenges with obtaining permits for data centers and offer legal, consulting, and regulatory perspectives.

Thursday, August 20

Practical and Legal Implications from New and Anticipated Air Regulations 11:10 a.m. – 12:10 p.m.

• Troutman Speaker: Melissa Horne
• Description: This session focuses on recent proposed and final air regulations at both the state and federal level and explores the potential impact of these changes on the regulated community. This includes recent court decisions regarding air regulations.

Georgia Environmental Protection Division – Land Protection Branch Update 11:10 a.m. – 12:10 p.m.

• Troutman Speaker: Karlie Webb
• Description: Updates from the Georgia EPD Land Branch.

Advancing Women in Industry: Lessons from Consulting, Counsel, and Clients 1:50 p.m. – 2:50 p.m.

• Troutman Speaker: Melissa Horne
• Description: This panel brings together leaders within our industry to discuss the opportunities and challenges facing women in industry. Panelists will share practical perspectives on career pathways, mentorship and sponsorship, and navigating field, project, and leadership environments. The discussion will also address how workplace culture, risk management, and regulatory and legal considerations can influence advancement and retention. Attendees will leave with actionable takeaways to support individual career growth and strengthen teams and organizations.

Friday, August 21

RMP Reboot: Navigating EPA’s Evolving RMP Requirements and Enforcement Trends 10:40 a.m. – 11:40 p.m.

• Troutman Speaker: James Beers
• Description: This panel discussion will provide an overview of EPA’s Clean Air Act Risk Management Program (RMP) rule, including the evolving regulatory landscape and key proposed changes under recent rulemakings. We will examine the back-and-forth shifts between administrations, highlight practical implications for covered facilities, and discuss current enforcement priorities and trends to help you anticipate and manage compliance risk.