My experience with government workers in the environmental fields is that most want to save the planet. Those with ambition and real world understanding end up heading to the private sector, which rewards those traits.

So often its.... "Why can't I fill in wetlands", its my land, versus, "everyone should bike to work and live in an apartment". What usually saves the process is strong, clear, and competent rules about how to proceed and proper administration. Anytime there is a major problem, it usually falls into problems with the rules or administration. So, in the end, blaming the department will probably never work. Change will have to come from those that can change and enforce the rules the department must abide by.

I had a problem one time with the way fees were calculated with our sewer department. Of course, I wanted the least possible and the department wanted the most they could get. The department had their agenda and reasons not too change (litterally hundreds of Thousands or even millions of revenue and much more work) but the process was still wrong. I found a council member who listened to me and then called in someone from the department. It was almost comical to watch as she asked why they were doing what they did. They cited the code and she looked at them and said, "But its unfair and wrong, right?". Suggest a revised rule in month as I am going to get this changed with your help or not." The change was made and I doubt anyone could imagine that the old way was actually used.

Until we get a legislature or governor who can stand up to the department, nothing will change.