Eric Hartley: Gansler's ambition vs. reality

Here is what Attorney General Douglas F. Gansler would like to do: have the state take over enforcement of most environmental laws, meaning his office - not counties - would prosecute anyone who pollutes the Chesapeake Bay, builds illegally in a Critical Area or otherwise threatens the environment.

"We have to think boldly," Gansler said this week on a boat ride through the West and Rhode rivers in south county. "We have to think in grander terms. This piecemeal approach isn't working."

Yet, here is what Gansler will actually be able to do next year (maybe, if he can push a bill through the General...