(a) The commissioner shall formulate and from time to time revise a state-wide environmental plan for the management and protection of the quality of the environment and the natural resources of the state in furtherance of legislative policy. The plan shall establish environmental goals and objectives and describe strategies for their achievement. In developing the plan the commissioner shall consider any other state-wide policies and plans he deems appropriate. The first of such plans shall be submitted to the Governor for his approval on or before September 1, 1987, and revisions, at intervals of five years thereafter, shall be made thereto. Upon its approval by the Governor, such plan shall serve as a guide for the people of the state and for the state and its political subdivisions for the preservation of the environment.

(b) The commissioner shall establish an advisory board to assist him in preparing the plan and any revisions thereto. The board shall reflect the state’s geographical diversity and include members representing municipalities, environmental groups, business and industries, education and the public and any other persons the commissioner deems appropriate.

(c) The commissioner shall annually conduct a conference to report achievement of the goals and objectives established in the plan and to encourage public discussion of environmental concerns.