(1) If the department determines that significant interest to the public is involved, one or more of the following steps, as applicable, shall be taken to assist public participation in decision-making: 

(a) a proceeding or hearing shall be held in compliance with the provisions of the Montana Administrative Procedure Act, Title 2, chapter, 4, MCA; 

(b) a public hearing, after appropriate notice is given, shall be held pursuant to any other provision, state law, local ordinance, or regulation;

(c) a news release, legal advertisement, or other method of publication shall be given to news media within the area to be affected, including:

(i) department name;

(ii) name of department representative most familiar with the proposed action; and

(iii) address, e-mail address, telephone and fax numbers where interested persons may submit their data, views, or arguments, orally or in writing, concerning the proposed action.