Pa Environment Digest July 2, 2018

Issue #731 Harrisburg, PA July 2, 2018
PA Environment Digest Blog Twitter Feed PaEnviroDigest Google+
Click Here to View or Print This Entire Digest
Reminder: DEP Growing Greener Plus Watershed Restoration Grant Applications Due
July 13
The Department of Environmental Protection will

accept applications for its Growing Greener Plus

Grant Program until July 13. (formal notice)
DEP will have more than $20 million available to
municipalities and nonprofit organizations for
projects to improve water quality in their community
or statewide.
“Growing Greener Plus has provided almost $300
million for more than 2,100 projects statewide since
its inception,” said Department of Environmental
Protection Secretary Patrick McDonnell. “With its
long history of supporting local partnerships and
on-the-ground efforts, DEP’s Growing Greener plays an essential role in restoring and protecting
the health of streams and rivers in communities across Pennsylvania.”
Grants are available for projects addressing nonpoint source pollution from farms, urban
stormwater runoff, and acid mine drainage (AMD) at abandoned coal mine sites. Projects may be
small or large, addressing an individual site or creating an initiative for an entire watershed, for
multiple counties, or statewide.
County and municipal governments, county conservation districts, watershed
organizations, and other organizations that work to protect and restore Pennsylvania’s
environment are eligible to apply.
For the second year, emphasis will be placed on projects in the 43 Pennsylvania counties
in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed that implement best management practices (BMPs) to reduce
nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment runoff in streams and rivers.
Projects that are in designated environmental justice communities or Act 47 financially
distressed municipalities, projects that increase job opportunities and foster sustainable
1
businesses, and projects that help regulated stormwater communities meet their minimum control
measures will also be prioritized.
Funds are available for BMPs, such as streambank fencing, streambank forest buffers,
animal heavy use area protection; wetland creation or enhancement; AMD treatment systems or
land reclamation at abandoned coal mine sites; projects included in a Clean Water Act Section
319 Watershed Implementation Plan; and AMD projects located in Qualified Hydrologic Units.
Applications will only be accepted electronically for Growing Greener Watershed
protection, Section 319, Surface Mining Conservation Set-Aside Grants.
Click Here for all the details.
Related Stories:
DCNR Multifunctional Riparian Forest Buffer Grants Webinar July 3, Grant Round Opens Aug.
1
PA Lake Management Society Offers Mini-Grants To Reduce Nutrient Loading, Address
Invasive Species
Grants Available To Improve Sinnemahoning Watershed In Cameron, Elk, McKean, Potter
Counties
OSM Acid Mine Drainage Watershed Cooperative Agreement Grants
[Posted: June 28, 2018]
DCNR Multifunctional Riparian Forest Buffer Grants Webinar July 3, Grant Round
Opens Aug. 1
DCNR will hold a webinar on July 3 on Multifunctional

Riparian Forest Buffer Grants from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m.
The webinar is designed for those interested in applying for 2018
second round grant funding for the installation of multifunctional
riparian forest buffers.
The webinar will provide a general overview about the
multifunctional riparian forest buffer grant program, including
eligible project activities, the PennVEST prequalification
process, and strategies on how to create a competitive grant
application.
The second round of 2018 grants for multifunctional buffers will
open August 1 and close close September 28 and will be funded by PennVEST.
More information about the program and the prequalification process is available online.
Questions can be directed to Kelly Rossiter by sending email to: krossiter@pa.gov or by calling
717-772-3319.
Growing Greener Grants
The Department of Environmental Protection is now accepting applications for Growing
Greener Plus Watershed Restoration Grants. The deadline for applications is July 13. Click
Here for all the details.
Related Stories:
Invasive Species
2
Counties
Reminder: DEP Growing Greener Plus Watershed Restoration Grant Applications Due July 13

Invasive Species
The PA Lake Management Society, with funding from the

Department of Environmental Protection, is now
accepting applications for mini-grants to address
lake-related issues of critically eroded shorelines, excess
nutrient loading, and/or aquatic invasive species that
degrade the quality of lakes in the Commonwealth.
The deadline for applications is August 17.
Eligible applicants include county and state
agencies, municipalities, nonprofits, and landowners
To be considered for funding, the application must demonstrate that the project can be
fully implemented and all paperwork submitted for reimbursement by November 1, 2019.
Special consideration will be given to lakes located in a watershed with an approved
TMDL and/or are listed on the Commonwealth’s 303(d) list of impaired waters.
Projects that maximize funding toward implementation costs (i.e., not administrative
costs) will receive high priority in award decisions.
A limited number of mini-grants will be awarded on a competitive basis of up to $24,000.
For for the details, visit the PA Lake Management Society’s Mini-Grant Project Grants
webpage. Questions should be directed to the Society contact us webpage.
The PA Lake Management Society mission is to promote the further understanding of
ponds, lakes, reservoirs and impoundments and their watersheds; the ecosystem of which they
are a part; and their protection, restoration and management.
Related Stories:
1
Counties
Grants Available To Improve Sinnemahoning Watershed In Cameron, Elk, McKean,

Potter Counties
The Fish and Boat Commission Thursday announced it is now accepting applications for the
Sinnemahoning Creek Watershed Restoration Grant Program. The deadline for applications is
September 29.
Project applicants must meet the eligibility criteria and must use the application form
3
specified in the grant application package. Note that there have been some changes to the
application package since the last round of awards in 2016.
This funding is available through a 2007 settlement agreement with Norfolk Southern as
restitution for environmental damages from a June 30, 2006, train derailment in rural Norwich
Township, McKean County.
The accident spilled sodium hydroxide into Big Fill Run, Sinnemahoning-Portage Creek
and the Driftwood Branch of the Sinnemahoning Creek.
Under the settlement, Norfolk Southern agreed to pay the Commonwealth $7.35 million
as restitution for environmental damages.
The PFBC received $3.675 million of the settlement and must use the funds to develop
and implement projects that benefit fishing, boating and aquatic resources in Cameron, Elk,
McKean or Potter counties.
The PFBC's primary emphasis will be on projects in the Sinnemahoning Creek
Watershed upstream of the confluence with the First Fork of Sinnemahoning Creek; however,
projects located elsewhere within the aforementioned counties will be considered.
Projects eligible for funding in this round will be limited to the following: fish habitat
protection and enhancement; restoration of aquatic habitat connectivity through the removal of
barriers to fish passage; riparian buffer plantings of trees and shrubs; abandoned mine drainage
treatment systems or mine reclamation projects that result in significant improvements to water
resources that are likely to benefit fish and other aquatic life; acquisition and development of
properties for public fishing and boating access; enhancement or restoration of populations of
specified aquatic Species of Greatest Conservation Need; storm water conservation practices/best
management practices (including Environmentally Sensitive Maintenance (ESM) practices for
dirt, gravel, and low volume roads) that maintain or improve water quality and/or habitat for fish
and other aquatic life; and acid deposition abatement and alkaline addition to remediate adverse
impacts from acidic precipitation to habitat for fish and other aquatic life.
Further description of these types of eligible projects and instructions for applying can be
found within the grant application package available on the agency website.
Awarding of funds for any selected projects will be contingent upon availability of funds.
Currently, the balance of unobligated funds remaining in the program account is approximately
$800,000. For this round, the PFBC will consider individual grant awards in the range of
$10,000 to $200,000.
Applicants must secure matching funds equal to at least 25 percent of the total project
costs in order to supplement PFBC funds and assist in implementing their proposed projects.
This minimum match threshold is equal to one-third of the grant amount the applicant is
requesting from the PFBC.
The PFBC anticipates final selection and public announcement of grant awards by the
end of January 2019.
For more information about applying, visit the Sinnemahoning Creek Watershed
Restoration Grant Program webpage or contact Fisheries Biologist Jeff Schmid at 814-359-5242
or send email to: jschmid@pa.gov.
Related Stories:
1
4
Invasive Species
Patriot News: Tapped Out, How PA's Drinking Water Program Is Hurting You; Lack Of
Resources Is Putting Drinking Water In PA At Risk
By Wallace McKelvey, Patriot News, WMckelvey@pennlive.com
We take two things for granted every time we turn on a

faucet: First, water will come out. Second, it won't make us
sick.
In Pennsylvania, we can no longer make such assumptions.
For years, inspectors charged with ensuring safe drinking
water struggled to do their jobs amid repeated budget cuts.
That meant many water utilities received little to no scrutiny.
And the utilities themselves struggled to keep up with the
cost to maintain and operate their delivery and treatment
systems. Combined, these factors risk the health of some 10 million Pennsylvanians who rely on
public water systems.
"Tapped Out" examines the failures of Pennsylvania's aging water infrastructure and the
regulatory system designed to protect the public.
Click Here to read the full special investigation report from the Patriot News.
[Note: On Thursday the Independent Regulatory Review Commission approved a final
regulation increasing Safe Drinking Water Program permit fees that will generate about $7.5
million in new revenue and allow DEP to hire up to 33 additional staff for the program to address
major deficiencies identified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The regulation will
become final after review by the Office of Attorney General and publication in the PA Bulletin.]
Comment
“This story does an excellent job pointing out the issues in DEP's Safe Drinking Water
Program in a thoughtful way quoting people that really know what the deal is.
“Unfortunately, this same thing is happening in ALL of DEP's programs, that is going
through triage to figure out what the most important thing DEP has to do to protect public health
and the environment and drop the rest because DEP simply just doesn't have the resources.
“These issues can be addressed with the right leadership. This year Gov. Wolf asked the
General Assembly to provide additional funding for 35 DEP positions and he got it.
“While DEP's support from the General Fund is just above 1994-95 levels, this is a start
and more targeted requests need to be made, particularly in programs related to protecting and
restoring water quality and meeting Chesapeake Bay cleanup requirements.”
-- David Hess, former DEP Secretary
NewsClips:
Resources Is Putting Drinking Water For 10 Million People In PA At Risk
McKelvey: More Money For Drinking Water Inspections Coming, Is It Enough?
5
McKelvey: Auditor General Says He’s Open To Examining Oversight Of Water Systems
Editorial: PA Has Failed On Guaranteeing Clean Water, Here’s How To Fix It
Pittsburgh Water Authority Tops Mid-Year Deadline For Lead Line Replacements
Steelton Mulls Privatizing Water, Sewer System
Wolf Pledges Millions To Tackle Lead Paint In Philadelphia Schools
Related Stories:
Senate, House Send Budget Bills To Wolf, Includes Funding For 35 New DEP Positions, Few
Other Changes
EQB Approves Final Drinking Water Fee Increases, Now Moves Through Final Review
EPA Still Concerned About DEP Drinking Water Program, Urges Temporary Funding To Hire
Staff Sooner
EPA: DEP Lacks Resources To Enforce Minimum Federal Safe Drinking Water Regs
Op-Ed: The Story Behind Stopping Conventional Oil & Gas Brine Spreading On Dirt
Roads
By Siri Lawson, Farmington Township, Warren

County
I live in Farmington Township, Warren County,

PA. My husband and I moved here in 2009. The
move was not voluntary.
Our previous home had become a casualty
of a failed frac of a Marcellus Shale “test” well.
We had to abandon that home, the third time we
had been forced to move because the oil and gas
industry had chosen a catastrophic method to dispose of their waste stream.
We fervently hoped this fourth location would be our last. A place to rest, recuperate and
just be left alone.
In early summer, 2011, vac truck after vac truck appeared on our dirt road dumping
wastewater. By fall, to our absolute horror, we had counted over 30 loads dumped on our road
alone.
We would learn the township had been over-brined in the past, but never on this scale.
This was the same waste that had sickened us at our last home.
Farmington Township supervisors listened to my complaints and promised to make it
stop.
The DEP listened and noted I complained.
There was so much wastewater dumped the first year that my pictures showed our road
coated with a white crystalline salt frost.
Eventually I was told if I wanted it stopped, I would have to be the cop.
The next year my road received less brine, but it did not stop. I had started developing
new and serious illnesses.
My animals were developing odd growths and infections.
Tragically, that year my husband suffered two back to back heart attacks. He was asked
6
on the operating table if he had recently been exposed to environmental contamination.
In 2016, a woman stopped and asked us to sign a petition requesting our township
supervisors stop brining the roads.
The petition was comprised mostly of Amish families.
Amish families also put hand-painted signs along the dirt roads bordering their properties
saying, “No Brine.”
I was told other township roads were being inundated with brine. Many roads were
receiving 2 vac truck loads of brine per day, multiple days per week, month after month, year
after year.
People were getting sick. Brine was running down roads, ditches and into creeks.
Supervisors would not listen to the residents coming forward.
I was prompted to collect a second petition. There were over 100 dirt road families in
tiny, sparse Farmington Township requesting brining be stopped.
When a road receives a massive and repetitive amount of oil and gas wastewater, it
begins to exhibit strange behavior.
Excessive brine will stain a dirt road a peach color. “Officials” tell residents brine is
needed to suppress the horrific dust on our dirt roads, but people living on those very same roads
will dispute that. They say brine will make a road dustier.
These same “officials” claim oil and gas wastewater is needed to stabilize dirt roads.
Over-brining causes gravel to sink and sediment fines to rise to the surface and get blown away.
In summer, these heavily brined roads become so “de-stabilized” that potholes make the
roads nearly impassable.
A single load of freshly spread brine coats vehicles and buggies with measurable amounts
of sticky, toxic brine mud. This mud has to be chipped off when it dries.
Frequently in the summer, roads are so de-stabilized by fresh brine that it becomes
necessary to use 4-wheel drive.
Anyone living on a brined dirt road is a 24-hour a day, 7-days a week hostage to
over-brining.
Vehicles and buggies experience premature and sometimes catastrophic rusting.
Brine mud carried back to the home exposes children and pets.
Brine road dust is insidious, collecting excessively in houses, barns and on vegetation
along roadways.
No one in our township was municipal water, only wells.
There has been little conversation about gardens being planted on free ditch dirt and no
mention of township road crews facing constant re-exposure every time they disturb the road
surface.
By 2017, pushback from township supervisors and the spectre of more uncontrolled brine
road spreading sent us to Fair Shake Legal Services of Pittsburgh.
We were accepted as clients and in front of the Environmental Hearing Board, the
lawyers initiated a multi-pronged action against the DEP and the residual waste hauler. [Case
Number: 2017051]
The action asked if we had the right to live safely in our own home. It was stated brine
spreading in our township had violated many environmental laws and standards.
It was also pointed out that spreading of oil and gas wastewater as a whole violated the
Solid Waste Management Act.
7
In preparation for a future hearing, we engaged two experts. A hydrologist focused on
DEP spreading guidelines, the township watershed and topography.
He took the chemical analysis that spreaders are required to periodically submit to the
DEP and compared them to the known parameters of shale brine.
What was spread on our roads exceeded that of shale brine. He showed how little
township supervisors know about their own townships and he showed how regulatory oversight
of brine spreading is impossible to achieve.
Our second expert researched whether there is historical or present day precedent, or even
any basis in scientific fact for the practice of brining.
He found nothing to substantiate it.
As a soil scientist he backed up Farmington Township residents claims that brine does
not suppress dust.
Ingredients inherent in brine react with clay particles in roadbeds causing the particles to
“delaminate” and produce excess dust.
The legal action ran into 2018, past DEP’s yearly renewal deadline for approving
individual applications to spread brine.
Months before the case was over DEP enacted a statewide moratorium on all road
spreading in the state.
Soon after that the Pennsylvania state legislature began to craft bills that would radically
rewrite existing oil and gas regulations.
This included a bill that would rename brine. Brine would be called a “natural” product
or resource, no longer a residual waste and could soon be once again dumped on roads.
In this legal and political mix was a pending research project undertaken by Penn State.
Originally, this project was undertaken to show oil and gas wastewater could be spread on dirt
roads. That would not be the final conclusion of that project.
My lawyers moved to have the judge decide the case based on existing solid waste law.
The defendants moved to dismiss the case based on the time factor and their expressed belief that
environmental law granted them the right to spread.
The DEP was then forced to argue for me and against the oil and gas industry. That
allowed the judge to state that in one sense I had won the argument and achieved my desire to
stop road spreading of oil and gas wastewater.
The judge then said he was dismissing the case because the transgressions had occurred
in 2017, this was 2018 and there was no sign road spreading would be repeated.
Immediately after my case was dismissed, the long awaited Penn State report was
published. It posed hard questions that need answers before brining could resume and its
conclusions were appallingly negative.
Penn State’s research addressed the radiation issue. That one issue alone could leave
Pennsylvania with a legacy it will never overcome.
Imagine, a township where brine dumping is so bad, an Amish man links arms with is
sons and forms a human chain refusing to let any more brine be dumped in front of his house.
These same Amish rose up at township meetings stating, “You care for the fish more than
the people.”
Pennsylvania needs to be a state that cares for fish and people.
I want to be part of a solution to this problem and a solution has to happen soon.
(Photos: L- Brine in a roadside ditch which ran into a stream about 1,000 feet from where this
8
photo was taken, R- Old Slate Road was heavily brined the day before (Sept. 26, 2017), by Siri
Lawson.)
(Comments on this article can be sent to: PaEnviroDigest@gmail.com.)
NewsClips:
Salty Situation: Using Brine On Roads For Dust Suppression
DEP And Brine Producers Working On New Rules
What Brine Is And What It Is Not
Hopey: DEP Revokes Permission To Dump Wastewater Brine From Drilling On Dirt Roads
Hopey: Penn State Study: Spraying Brine From Drilling, Fracking On Roadways Is Hazardous
Frazier: Study Finds Health Threats From Oil & Gas Brines Spread On Roads
Related Story:
House Passes Bill Weakening Standards For Conventional Oil & Gas Drilling
Senate, House Re-Write Of Oil & Gas Act For Conventional Drillers Turns Back The Clock to
1984
Penn State Study: Using Oil & Gas Well Brine As Dust Suppressant Less Than Ideal
Videos From Montgomery, Cumberland, Dauphin Counties Voted Favorites In Great

American Cleanup Of PA Video Contest
The videos getting the most votes in the Great

American Cleanup of PA Video Contest as tabulated
on the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Facebook page
were--
-- 1st Place: Montgomery County: Make Norristown
Beautiful;
-- 2nd Place: Cumberland County: Build A Better
New Cumberland; and
-- 3rd Place: Dauphin County: Lancaster Mennonite
School, Hershey.
The videos with the most “Likes” won cash prizes--
$200 for first place and $100 each for two runners up. Cash prizes are sponsored by the PA
Waste Industries Association.
“We hope our video contest generates excitement around local community improvement
efforts. Through this video contest, it is our goal to share grassroots stories of partnerships,
innovation and pride. We are anxious to see who is chosen as this year’s winner and thank
everyone for sharing our vision of a clean and beautiful Pennsylvania!” said Shannon Reiter,
President of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.
The other entries are very much worth a watch too. They include--
-- Allegheny County: Rachel Carson Trail
-- Cumberland County: Mount Holly Springs Council
-- Dauphin County: Lancaster Mennonite School, Hershey
-- Erie County: Falls Road Cleanup
-- Montgomery County: Upper Perkiomen Middle School
-- Montgomery County: Upper Merion Twp. Park & Stream Cleanup
9
-- Northampton County: Bangor Middle School
Click Here to view all the videos.
For more information on programs, initiatives and special events, visit the Keep
Pennsylvania Beautiful website. Click Here to become a member. Click Here to sign up for
regular updates from KPB, Like them on Facebook, Follow on Twitter, Discover them on
Pinterest and visit their YouTube Channel.
Also visit the Illegal Dump Free PA website for more ideas on how to clean up
communities and keep them clean and KPB’s Electronics Waste website.
NewsClips:
How, And What To Recycle In Erie County
Once A Tire Dump, Lehigh Valley Site To See New Life As Manufacturing Campus
Are Temple’s Food Waste Digesters Disrupting The Industry Or Shifting The Burden?
Op-Ed: Let’s Keep Pittsburgh Beautiful
IFO Projects Increase In Drilling Impact Fee Revenue In 2018 Under Current Conditions
The Independent Fiscal Office Thursday reported revenue from the Act 13 drilling impact fee
could increase another $14.5 million to $224 million in 2018, if natural gas prices and the
number of wells remain about the same.
That would put revenues just over the record of $223.5 million set in 2013. Fee revenue
this year was $209.5 million.
However, if natural gas prices drop, fee revenue could go down by $30.4 million.
What neither estimate accounts for is an adverse decision from the PA Supreme Court
which allows well operators to avoid paying the fee if they take wells out of service or reduce
production for one month a year so a gas well can be classified as a stripper well.
The Public Utility Commission appealed an adverse decision on the issue by
Commonwealth Court to the PA Supreme Court in April 2017. No decision has yet been issued.
In 2017, the PUC estimated impact fee revenue would have been reduced by $16 million.
Legislation has also been introduced-- House Bill 1283 (Snyder-D-Fayette)-- to clarify
this issue in law, but no action has been taken.
Click Here for a copy of the IFO impact fee report.
NewsClips:
Legere: Natural Gas Prices Make Impact Fee Projections Hazy For 2018
Indiana County, Municipalities Get Share Of State’s Drilling Impact Fees
Editorial: Natural Gas Impact Fee Numbers show Unique Effectiveness
Related Story:
PUC Distributes $209.5 Million In Act 13 Drilling Impact Fees, Total Fee Revenue Tops $1.4
Billion
DEP Declares Code Orange Air Quality Action Day In All 5 Air Quality Partnership Areas
For Saturday, June 30
The Department of Environmental Protection and its
10
regional air quality partnerships have forecast a Code Orange Air Quality Action Day for ozone
in all 5 Air Quality Partnership areas for Saturday, June 30. Those areas include--
-- Liberty-Clairton: Liberty, Clairton, Port Vue, Lincoln, Glassport, Allegheny County;
-- Southwest PA: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Washington, Westmoreland
counties;
-- Southcentral PA: Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, and York counties;
-- Lehigh Valley: Berks, Lehigh Northampton counties; and
-- Southeast PA: Bucks Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.
Lots of sunshine, light southwesterly winds, and temperatures soaring to the middle 90s
will cause ozone to rise to code ORANGE levels. Fine particulate will also break into the
moderate zone as mixing will be limited.
Sunday's forecast: Rather hot on Sunday with sunshine for the most part and temperatures
reaching the middle and upper 90s.
On air quality action days, young children, the elderly and those with respiratory
problems, such as asthma, emphysema and bronchitis, are especially vulnerable to the effects of
air pollution and should limit outdoor activities.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s standardized air quality index uses colors
to report daily air quality. Green signifies good; yellow means moderate; orange represents
unhealthy pollution levels for sensitive people; and red warns of unhealthy pollution levels for
all.
To help keep the air healthy, residents and business are encouraged to voluntarily restrict
certain pollution-producing activities by:
-- Refueling cars and trucks after dusk;
-- Setting air conditioner thermostats to a higher temperature;
-- Carpooling or using public transportation; and
-- Combining errands to reduce trips.
These forecasts are provided in conjunction with DEP’s regional air quality partnerships.
Check the PA Environment Digest Blog for updates through the weekend.
Visit DEP’s Air Quality Partnerships webpage for more information on air quality across
Pennsylvania.
NewsClips:
DEP Issues Air Quality Advisory For Saturday In Southwest
Code Orange Air Quality Alert Issued For Central PA Counties
Heat, Sun Mean Poor Air Quality Saturday In York
Allegheny County Fines Clairton Coke (Coal) Works $1 Million
Allegheny Health Dept. Fines Clairton Works $1 Million
Trump Proposes Hitting Oil Refiners With Boosted Biofuel Quotas
DEP: West Nile Virus Found In 11 More Counties This Week Bringing Total To 23
The Department of Environmental Protection

Friday reported on its West Nile Virus website
mosquitoes testing positive for the virus have been
found in 11 more counties this week-- Bedford,
11
Columbia, Cumberland, Delaware, Fayette, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lawrence, Luzerne,
Northumberland and Union.
This brings to 23 the number of counties with positive surveillance results, including the
previously reported counties of-- Adams, Berks, Blair, Bucks, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon,
Lehigh, Lycoming, Montgomery, Montour and York.
Certain mosquito species carry the West Nile virus, which can cause humans to contract
West Nile encephalitis, an infection that can result in an inflammation of the brain. According to
the Department of Health, all residents in areas where virus activity has been identified are at
risk of contracting West Nile encephalitis.
Individuals can take a number of precautionary measures around their homes to help
eliminate mosquito-breeding areas, including:
-- Dispose of cans, buckets, plastic containers, ceramic pots, or similar containers that hold
water;
-- Properly dispose of discarded tires that can collect water. Stagnant water is where most
mosquitoes breed;
-- Drill holes in the bottom of outdoor recycling containers;
-- Have clogged roof gutters cleaned every year as the leaves from surrounding trees have a
tendency to plug drains;
-- Turn over plastic wading pools when not in use;
-- Turn over wheelbarrows and don't let water stagnate in birdbaths;
-- Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish; and
-- Clean and chlorinate swimming pools not in use and remove any water that may collect on
pool covers.
If a resident has stagnant pools of water on their property, they can buy Bti products at
lawn and garden, outdoor supply, home improvement and other stores. This naturally occurring
bacterium kills mosquito larvae, but is safe for people, pets, aquatic life and plants.
Additionally, these simple precautions can prevent mosquito bites, particularly for people
who are most at risk:
-- Make sure screens fit tightly over doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out of homes.
-- Consider wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants and socks when outdoors, particularly when
mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, or in areas known for having large numbers of
mosquitoes.
-- When possible, reduce outdoor exposure at dawn and dusk during peak mosquito periods,
usually April through October.
-- Use insect repellents according to the manufacturer's instructions. An effective repellent will
contain DEET, picardin, or lemon eucalyptus oil. Consult with a pediatrician or family physician
for questions about the use of repellent on children, as repellent is not recommended for children
under the age of two months.
For more information on spraying operation and surveillance results, visit the West Nile
Virus website.
NewsClip:
Could Pennsylvanians Soon Develop Allergies To Red Meat Because Of A Tick Bite?
DCNR, Partners Celebrate Loyalsock Creek’s River Of The Year Honor, PA Rivers Month
12
On June 22, Department of Conservation and Natural
Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn joined state
and local officials, and Middle Susquehanna
Riverkeeper Association members in celebrating the
designation of Loyalsock Creek as Pennsylvania’s
2018 River of the Year in Williamsport, Lycoming
County.
DCNR has invested $40,000 to develop a river
conservation plan for Loyalsock Creek and has
approved a $10,000 grant to the Middle Susquehanna
Riverkeeper Association for stream-based support
events, education and celebrations throughout 2018.
“As Governor Wolf noted in his proclamation naming June ‘Pennsylvania Rivers Month’
and commending the Loyalsock and its supporters, healthy, rebounding waterways are a boon to
area communities,” Dunn said. “A major tributary to the Susquehanna, the Loyalsock draws
legions of paddlers, anglers and other outdoors enthusiasts to its waters, as well as neighboring
businesses. Events like this serve economic revitalization by enhancing access to the stream;
increasing tourism; and providing additional land and water-based recreational opportunities for
area residents and visitors alike."
Held to commemorate PA Rivers Month, the River of the Year celebration highlights the
state’s wealth of rivers and streams, and recognizes their supporters. It includes a sojourn on a
stretch of the Loyalsock, which Dunn will be joining Saturday.
“We are delighted to share time with Secretary Dunn as we celebrate the creek's River of
the Year designation today, and paddle on the Loyalsock to the West Branch Susquehanna River
on Saturday,” Middle Susquehanna Riverkeeper Carol Parenzan. “Not only are we connecting
community to the creek but the creek to the river. We all live upstream. We are all the first
source for clean water. We look forward to seeing the Loyalsock Creek through the eyes of
Secretary Dunn.”
Loyalsock Creek flows through Worlds End State Park, a highly popular destination state
park encompassing 780 acres, and Loyalsock State Forest. Nearby is the Loyalsock Trail, a
well-traveled 59-mile trail providing vistas overlooking the stream below.
Presented annually since 1983, PA Organization of Waterways (POWR) administers the
River of the Year program with funding from DCNR. A commemorative River of the Year
sojourn is among many paddling trips supported by DCNR and POWR each year.
An independent program, the Pennsylvania Sojourn Program, is a unique series of trips
on state waterways. These water-based journeys for canoeists, kayakers and others raise
awareness of the environmental, recreational, tourism and heritage values of rivers. For more
information about the sojourn program, visit the POWR website.
To learn more about the River of the Year program, the nominated waterways, and past
winners, visit the Pennsylvania River of the Year website.
To learn more about DCNR’s Rivers Program, visit the DCNR's Rivers Conservation
webpage.
For more information on state parks and forests and recreation in Pennsylvania, visit
DCNR’s website, Click Here to sign up for the Resource newsletter, Visit the Good Natured
13
DCNR Blog, Click Here for upcoming events, Click Here to hook up with DCNR on other
social media-- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.
(Photo: DCNR Secretary Dunn unveils Loyalsock River Of The Year poster.)
NewsClips:
PA State Parks & Forests Launches 125th Anniversary Celebration
June 29 Take Five Fridays With Pam, PA Parks & Forests Foundation
Op-Ed: Will Philly’s New Rail Park Help Create Neighborhood For All?
Downtown Greensburg Project Seeks Volunteers For Park Cleanup
Teams Race Dragon Boats During Final Day Of RiverFest
Annual Dragon Boat Races Held On Susquehanna In Wilkes-Barre
Why Living Near A Public Park Is Better For Your Health
Fallingwater Soon To Be Abloom Thanks To New Cutting Garden
You’ve Never Seen The Appalachian Trail Like This (Aerial Photos)
Artist Aims To Bring People Closer To Time And Tide On The Schuylkill River
Artist Reveals Hidden Lives Of Amphibians In Frick Environmental Center Display
Frye: Tiny Campgrounds Offer The Right Mix Of Seclusion, Access
Ambitious Plan Could Open Pequea Silver Mine Park To Tours
Senate/House Bills Moving Last Week
The following bills of interest saw action last week in the House and Senate--
House
Permitting Portal: House Bill 1284 (Peifer-R-Pike) directs DCED to develop a one-stop-shop
online permitting portal for business (House Fiscal Note and summary) was reported from the
House Appropriations Committee and was unanimously passed by the House. The bill now goes
to the Senate for action.
Lead Water Line Replacement: House Bill 2075 (Charlton-R-Delaware) lead water service
line and damaged sewer lateral replacement (House Fiscal Note and summary) was reported
from the House Appropriations Committee and passed the House. It now goes to the Senate for
action.
Bills On Governor's Desk
The following bills were given final approval by the Senate and House and are now on the
Governor's desk for action--
Limiting Eminent Domain: House Bill 2468 limiting the use of eminent domain by government
agencies on land with conservation easements for parks and open space purposes except for
emergency condemnation and condemnation by public utilities (House Fiscal Note). Click Here
14
for more. Was signed into law by Gov. Wolf as Act 45.
Alternative Ratemaking: House Bill 1782 (Delozier-R-Cumberland) authorizing alternative

ratemaking such as decoupling, performance-based, multiyear and other mechanisms for utilities
regulated by the PUC, including electric, natural gas, water and wastewater services (Senate
Fiscal Note and summary). Click Here for more. Signed into law as Act 58.
Littering/Dumping: Senate Bill 431 (Scavello-R-Monroe) authorizes the designation of local

litter enforcement corridors where fines are doubled for certain offences or even tripled for
commercial littering or illegal dumping and designates all scenic highways as litter enforcement
corridors (House Fiscal Note and summary). Click Here for more. Signed into law as Act 62.
Disposal Of Hospice Medication: Senate Bill 978 (Baker-R-Luzerne) disposal of unused

medicines in hospice or for home health care patients (House Fiscal Note and summary). Signed
into law as Act 69.
Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule/Gov’s Schedule
Here are the Senate and House Calendars for the next voting session day and Committees
scheduling action on bills of interest as well as a list of new environmental bills introduced--
Bill Calendars
House (Sept. 12): House Bill 107 (Godshall-R- Montgomery) providing a mechanism to cover
costs of extending natural gas distribution systems; House Bill 1401 (DiGirolamo-R-Bucks)
which amends Title 58 to impose a sliding scale natural gas severance tax, in addition to the Act
13 drilling impact fee, on natural gas production (NO money for environmental programs) and
includes provisions related to minimum landowner oil and gas royalties; House Bill 1446
(Quinn-R- Bucks) encouraging infrastructure for electric and natural gas fueled vehicles; House
Resolution 284 (Moul-R-Adams) urging Congress to repeal the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency’s MS4 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (sponsor summary); Senate Bill 1172
(Vulakovich-R-Allegheny) further providing for enforcement of price gouging provisions during
an emergency declaration (Senate Fiscal Note and summary). <> Click Here for full House Bill
Calendar.
Senate (Sept. 24): Senate Bill 820 (Aument-R- Lancaster) providing liability protection for
owners and operators of on-farm agritourism activities (sponsor summary); Senate Bill 917
(Dinniman-R-Chester) amends Act 101 Municipal Waste Planning and Recycling Act to include
spent mushroom compost under the definition of “compost materials to encourage its reuse
(sponsor summary); Senate Bill 930 (Dinniman-D- Chester) sets notification requirements
related to pipeline emergencies (sponsor summary); Senate Bill 931 (Dinniman-D-Chester)
requires the installation of automatic or remote controlled safety values in natural gas pipelines
in densely populated areas; Senate Bill 1199 (Rafferty-R- Montgomery) providing for a
landowners’ bill of rights in cases of eminent domain, including by private entities like pipeline
companies (sponsor summary); Senate Resolution 104 (Bartolotta-R- Washington) resolution
15
urging the Governor to end the moratorium on new non-surface disturbance natural gas drilling
on state forest land (sponsor summary); Senate Resolution 373 (Rafferty-R-Montgomery) is a
concurrent Senate-House resolution to establish a Senate-House legislative Commission to Study
Pipeline Construction and Operations and to recommend improvements for the safe transport of
oil, natural gas and other hazardous liquids through pipelines; House Bill 544 (Moul-R-Adams)
further providing for liability protection for landowners opening their land for public recreation;
House Bill 927 (Rader-R-Monroe) amends Act 101 Municipal Waste Planning and Recycling
Act to eliminate the mandate on smaller municipalities to have a leaf waste collection program
(House Fiscal Note and summary); House Bill 1550 (Klunk-R-York) amending the Agricultural
Area Security Law to allow for a residence for the principal landowner (House Fiscal Note and
summary). <> Click Here for full Senate Bill Calendar.
Committee Meeting Agendas This Week
House: [ Not in session ] <> Click Here for full House Committee Schedule.
Senate: [ Not in session ] <> Click Here for full Senate Committee Schedule.
Bills Pending In Key Committees
Check the PA Environmental Council Bill Tracker for the status and updates on pending state
legislation and regulations that affect environmental and conservation efforts in Pennsylvania.
Session Schedule
Here is the latest voting session schedule for the Senate and House--
Senate
Recessed to the call of the President Pro Tempore
September 24, 25, 26
October 1, 2, 3, 15, 16, 17
November 14
House
Recessed to the call of the House Speaker
September 12, 13, 24, 25, & 26.
October 1 (Non-Voting), 2 (Non-Voting), 9, 10, 15, 16, & 17.
November 13
Governor’s Schedule
Gov. Tom Wolf's work calendar will be posted each Friday and his public schedule for the day
will be posted each morning. Click Here to view Gov. Wolf’s Weekly Calendar and Public
Appearances.
16
News From The Capitol
Gov. Wolf Signs House Bill To Limit Eminent Domain Use On Land Protected By
Conservation Easements
Gov. Tom Wolf Sunday signed House Bill 2468 limiting the use of eminent domain by
government agencies on land with conservation easements for parks and open space purposes.
Two school districts in the state-- Cumberland Valley in Cumberland County and Lower
Merion in Montgomery County-- have decided to use eminent domain to condemn
privately-owned land permanently preserved by conservation easements held by local land trusts,
over the objections of many residents of the communities. Other suitable non-preserved land in
each vicinity is available, according to the bill sponsors.
The bill would require any government agency to obtain Orphans’ Court approval before
using eminent domain to take permanently preserved land. The procedure is similar to that found
in the Agricultural Area Security Law which requires additional scrutiny before condemnation of
agricultural lands. The Orphans’ Court is given authority in the Donated and Dedicated Property
Act over certain transactions related to publicly owned lands held for public uses.
The bill exempts public utilities that condemn land (like pipelines) and exempt
“emergency” condemnations from the provisions of the bill.
The bill was introduced by Representatives Warren Kampf (R-Chester), Kate Harper
(R-Montgomery) and Marcy Toepel (R-Montgomery).
A House Fiscal Note and summary is available. The bill is now Act 45 of 2018.
NewsClips:
Thompson: Cumberland Valley Schools Withdraw Bid To Condemn Conserved Farm
New Law Could Derail Midstate School District’s Eminent Domain Plans
Thompson: Bill Would Require Court Approval To Take Conserved Land
How The Fight To Save Stoneleigh Brought Zombie Pols Back To Life, Too
Stoneleigh Garden May Be Saved From Lower Merion School District By New Law
Alternative Utility Ratemaking Bill To Encourage Conservation, Infrastructure Investment

Signed By Governor
Gov. Tom Wolf late Thursday signed into law House Bill 1782 (Delozier-R- Cumberland)
authorizing alternative ratemaking by the Public Utility Commission for utilities it regulates,
including electric, natural gas, water and wastewater services.
In the energy context, the bill is designed to allow utilities to encourage energy efficiency
improvements, distributed and renewable energy projects.
The bill would allow the Public Utility Commission to approve the use of alternate
ratemaking mechanisms by utilities, such as decoupling, performance-based rates, formula rates
and multiyear rates.
It does not add to the amount a company is approved to earn or recover from ratepayers.
This continues to be determined by the PUC. It also does not change the type of costs that may
be recovered by a utility through rates.
The bill clarifies the PUC’s authority to approve the use of alternative rate mechanism.
17
These mechanism could be used to recover capital costs and expenses to provide service as they
do now, and the PUC retains the ability to approve such recovery.
A Senate Fiscal Note and summary is available. The bill is now Act 58 of 2018.
PUC Statement
In a statement issued Friday, the Public Utility Commission said it will now begin the
process of implementing Act 58.
Act 58 allows public utilities to petition the PUC to consider various alternative
ratemaking mechanisms as part of utilities’ base rate proceedings, including: decoupling
mechanisms, performance-based rates, formula rates or multiyear rate plans, or a combination of
those alternatives.
The Commission will now carefully evaluate how to best implement these changes to the
Public Utility Code, while continuing the PUC’s underlying mission to ensure safe and reliable
utility service at just and reasonable rates.
All interested parties should be aware that the alternative ratemaking mechanisms
authorized under Act 58 must be proposed within the confines of a utility base rate case under
Chapter 13 of the Public Utility Code.
The Commission has a well-established process for reviewing base rate cases, which
provides for hearings concerning the lawfulness and appropriateness of proposed rates, including
proposed alternative rate mechanisms.
Interested parties may respond to a utility’s application for alternative ratemaking by
filing a complaint or intervening in a base rate case and addressing an alternative ratemaking
proposal, including proposing and justifying any customer protections they consider appropriate.
Act 58 does not change this Commission process. The PUC’s current process for
ratemaking is detailed in a recently-released “Guide to Utility Ratemaking,” which addresses
many innovations that have made Pennsylvania a national leader in the field and contains a
thorough guide to the procedures used by the Commission to set rates.
The Commission noted it has an alternative ratemaking process already underway to
codify the necessary framework and consumer protections of alternative rate mechanisms in any
future base rate proceeding, including soliciting public comment on a proposed policy statement,
policies that support the continued efficient use of all energy resources; targeted investment in
distribution infrastructure to address the evolution of a distributed energy environment; and the
encouragement of least-cost solutions.
With the enactment of Act 58, the Commission is evaluating how to coordinate this
alternative ratemaking policy statement process with implementation of the statute.
NewsClips:
Cusick: New PA Law To Create More Revenue Options For Utilities
AP: Changes Urged Amid Probe Of Fatal Lancaster Natural Gas Explosion
Robert Powelson To Resign From FERC Amid Fight Over Coal Bailout
Powelson To Leave FERC Deadlocked On Gas Pipelines, Grappling With Resilience
Trump’s Chances Of Coal Bailout Get Better With Powelson Resignation
Cusick: Powelson, Fmr PA Utility Regulator, Resigns From FERC
Cost Estimate For Trump’s Coal Bailout Coming Soon, DOE’s Perry Says
Why Trump Is Going National With Bid To Save Coal, Nuclear
Related Stories:
PUC Invites Comments On Proposed Policy Statement On Alternative Ratemaking
18
Wolf Signs Bill Authorizing New Local Funding Option For Energy Efficiency, Clean Energy
Projects
Scavello Bill Cracking Down On Littering, Illegal Dumping Becomes Law
Gov. Tom Wolf late Thursday signed into law Senate Bill 431 sponsored by Sen. Mario Scavello
(R-Monroe) to reduce littering across Pennsylvania by requiring offenders to pick up trash and
authorizing the creation of local litter enforcement corridors.
“When you look at all of the trash along our roads, it’s clear that fines alone are not
enough to deter this crime,” said Sen. Scavello. “Littering is like graffiti and other acts of
vandalism – when people engage in it without fear of punishment, it sends the message that no
one cares and leads to more litter. It’s time to show we really care.”
Senate Bill 431 requires that for a first offense of scattering rubbish, a person is required
to pick up litter or illegally dumped trash for between five and 30 hours within six months, in
addition to the existing fine of $50 to $300.
For a second or subsequent offense, the offender may also be required to pick up litter or
illegally dumped trash for 30 to 100 hours over one year, in addition to the existing fine of $300
to $1,000.
Furthermore, existing fines are doubled when committed in a litter enforcement corridor
and tripled for litter that originated from a commercial business within a litter enforcement
corridor.
To ensure safety when litter is being picked up, Senate Bill 431 requires that a vehicle
must yield the right-of-way to any authorized vehicle or pedestrian engaged in work upon a
highway within a litter enforcement corridor.
“We are grateful for Sen. Scavello’s leadership and for the entire legislature’s willingness
to work together to strengthen Pennsylvania’s litter and illegal dumping laws,” said Keep
Pennsylvania Beautiful President Shannon Reiter. “The bipartisan and unanimous support for
this bill underscores our shared commitment to keeping Pennsylvania beautiful.”
"The Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau wholeheartedly supports SB 431 and is grateful
for the Senator's leadership,” said PMVB President/CEO Christopher Barrett. “This new law will
add a very important arrow in the quiver of our ‘Pick up the Poconos’ anti-litter initiative.”
“I’ve been working for years to put some teeth in laws designed to combat littering. This
crime is bad for civic pride and bad for the environment. I am grateful to my legislative
colleagues for passing this legislation unanimously, and I look forward to a cleaner, healthier
landscape that we can all be proud of,” said Sen. Scavello.
A House Fiscal Note and summary is available. The bill is now Act 62 of 2018.
NewsClips:
Senate Republican Policy Committee Holds July 9 Hearing On Clean Fill, Abandoned
19
Quarries In Northampton County
The Senate Republican Policy Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing on July 9 on the issue of
clean fill and regulated fill and abandoned quarries in Pen Argyl, Northampton County.
The hearing, which is being held at the request of Sen. Mario Scavello (R-Monroe), will
review the concerns of local residents and officials about the state’s regulations for clean fill and
regulated fill.
The various classifications of fill are based on the level of contaminants of the materials.
For example, clean fill is typically comprised of soil, rock, stone, dredged material, used asphalt
and brick, block or concrete from construction and demolition sites.
Northampton County’s numerous abandoned slate quarries are prime dumping grounds
for fill by both in-state and out-of-state entities.
“Many residents and elected officials in the region have raised concerns over the
dumping of out-of-state fill coming to our area,” Sen. Scavello said. “I share the same concern
over both the volume of fill and the impact it has on the environment. This hearing will be key to
fully evaluate the state’s environmental standards to ensure our residents are protected.”
The hearing will feature representatives from the Department of Environmental
Protection, local elected officials, residents, business leaders and industry professionals.
Representatives from the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation have also been invited to testify.
“I commend Sen. Scavello for drawing the attention of the Senate Majority Policy
Committee to this key issue,” said Sen. David Argall (R-Schuylkill) Chair of the Committee.
“We need to know why it’s okay to dump this material in Pennsylvania and why it is not okay to
dump in New York and New Jersey.”
The hearing will be held at the Wind Gap Middle School, 1620 Teels Road, Pen Argyl
starting at 10:00 a.m.
For more information, visit the Senate Republican Policy Committee webpage.
June Environmental Synopsis Now Available From Joint Conservation Committee
The June Environmental Synopsis is now

available from the Joint Legislative Air and
Water Pollution Control and Conservation
Committee featuring articles on--
-- Pennsylvania Anthracite Coal Industry
(photo)
-- Hacking Photosynthesis Using Genetic
Engineering
-- Spread Of E.coli Linked To Contaminated Cattle Water Troughs (photo)
-- Is Ecotourism Ecofriendly?
-- Forests Struggling To Re-Establish Themselves
-- Invasive Pathogens
-- Conservation History: Drought In The Summer Of 1988
Sen. Scott Hutchinson (R-Venango) serves as Chair of the Joint Conservation
20
Committee.
For more information, visit the Joint Conservation Committee website, Like them on
Facebook or Follow them on Twitter. Click Here to sign up for regular updates from the
Committee.
News From Around The State
Federal Office Of Surface Mining Provides Nearly $500,000 In Grants To Restore

Watersheds In PA
The Department of the Interior’s Office of Surface

Mining Reclamation and Enforcement Wednesday
announced it has awarded approximately $1 million in
cooperative agreements to nonprofit watershed
restoration groups in Ohio, Pennsylvania and West
Virginia.
In Pennsylvania, these projects received $449,455 in
funding--
-- $100,000 - Big Run Enhancement: This project,
located in Pennsylvania’s Blackleggs Creek Watershed,
will rehabilitate an existing AMD treatment system to
assure its continuing efficient operation and improve water quality in support of a trout fishery.
-- $100,000 - Hayes Run: This project, located in Pennsylvania’s Little Toby Creek Watershed,
will rehabilitate an existing AMD treatment system to assure its continuing efficient operation
for years to come and support a trout fishery.
-- $23,500 - Howe Bridge Rehabilitation: This project, in Pennsylvania’s Mill Creek
Watershed, will rehabilitate an existing AMD treatment system to assure its continuing efficient
operation and maintaining improved water quality in Mill Creek to support a warm water fishery.
-- $54,755 - Filson 1 and 2 Rehabilitation: This project, also located in Pennsylvania’s Mill
Creek Watershed, will rehabilitate an existing AMD treatment system to assure its continuing
efficient operation and maintain improved water quality in support a warm water fishery.
-- $89,200 - Kyler Run Anoxic Limestone Drain #1 (ALD1) Rehabilitation: This project,
located in Pennsylvania’s Little Toby Creek Watershed, will rehabilitate an existing AMD
treatment system to assure its continuing efficient operation for years to come, thereby,
maintaining improved water quality in Kyler Run and Little Toby Creek to support a trout
fishery.
-- $82,000 - Kyler Run Anoxic Limestone Drain #2 (ALD2) Rehabilitation: Also located in
Pennsylvania’s Little Toby Creek Watershed, this project will rehabilitate an existing AMD
treatment system and assure continued efficient operation for years to come. The result will
maintain improved water quality and support local trout.
The funds, part of OSMRE’s Watershed Cooperative Agreement Program, provide
supplemental financial assistance to nonprofit watershed restoration groups and other nonprofit
organizations for the construction of acid mine drainage (AMD) treatment facilities that help
restore the biological health of local streams.
21
“The vital work being done in conjunction with partners to restore the usability of
abandoned mine lands is yet another example of Interior’s multiple-use mission of conservation
in action,” said U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke.
Click Here for the complete announcement
OSM AMD Watershed Grants
The Federal Office of Surface Mining, Reclamation and Enforcement is now accepting
applications for Not-For-Profit Acid Mine Drainage Watershed Cooperative Agreement Grants.
Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through August 31. Click Here for all the
details.
Growing Greener Grants
The Department of Environmental Protection is now accepting applications for Growing
Greener Plus Watershed Restoration Grants. The deadline for applications is July 13. Click
Here for all the details.
NewsClips:
Federal Money Could Restart Cleanup Of Abandoned Rostraver Mine
Plans For Old Forge Borehole Mine Discharge Making Progress
Related Stories:
1
Invasive Species
Counties
(Courtesy of Joe Pizarchik, former OSM Director, former Director DEP Bureau of Mining and
Reclamation on Twitter@JoePizarchik.)
Brodhead Watershed Assn., Partners Hold Pocket Park Ribbon Cutting In Stroudsburg
The Brodhead Watershed Association and

local partners held a ribbon cutting for a
pocket park in Stroudsburg, Monroe
County Friday to improve green
infrastructure in the community.
In a two-year effort, what was once a dusty
site for dumpsters has been transformed
into a pocket park complete with plants,
shade trees, pathways and seating.
The “urban nature space” is a collaboration of Stroudsburg Borough, Monroe County
commissioners, Brodhead Watershed Association and Strauser Nature’s Helpers, with sponsors
and donors contributing to the project.
Stroudsburg Mayor Tarah Probst said, “I am overwhelmed with the support of our
community and the donations that came in to help fund this beautification project. I want to
22
thank each and every one of you from the bottom of my heart. We did it.”
Probst hopes the spot gives downtown workers and residents a green getaway and is the
first step in beautifying Quaker Alley. Possible plans include expansion of the park to include
more of the empty lot surrounding it, as well as other green infrastructure elsewhere in
downtown Stroudsburg.
Bob Heil, executive director of Brodhead Watershed Association, said, “Building new
green spaces in Stroudsburg not only enhances the quality of life in the beautiful borough but is
water-smart and exactly what BWA’s Green Infrastructure Plan for the Lower Brodhead is all
about.”
Project coordinators made sure the pocket park is environmentally mindful. Pavers are
water-permeable, and rainwater will soak in the ground to be used by the native plants, rather
than running down the street to storm drains.
Stroudsburg Borough workers and Strauser Nature’s Helpers employees prepared the
site, and Robin Petras of Strauser Nature’s Helpers provided the landscape design.
Volunteers from Pocono Mountains Association of Realtors and Vigon International
helped put in the plants this week.
Sponsors who contributed monetarily are: Pocono Mountains Association of Realtors,
Vigon International, the Church of St. Luke in Stroudsburg, Greater Pike Community
Foundation and PNC Foundation.
Residents who donated to the project include Probst, Jessica DePete, Richard and Mary
Ellen Cramer, Jill Price, Rick and Barb Hammond, Joanne Strauss, Stephen McTavish, Alanna
McTavish, Robert Younger.
For information, visit the Brodhead Stroudsburg Park and Green Infrastructure Plan
webpage.
For more information on programs, initiatives and other upcoming events, visit the
Brodhead Watershed Association website. Click Here to sign up for regular updates from the
Association. Click Here to become a member.
NewsClips:
Crable: Will Lancaster Farmers Be Banned From Spreading Manure In Winter?
Crable: Turkey Hill Dairy, 3 Companies Focus On Lancaster Farmers Over Water Pollution
Hurdle: New Stormwater Basin Reduces Flows Into Philadelphia Sewer System
Allegheny Front: What The Federal Farm Bill Could Mean For Conservation Efforts In PA
U.S. Senate Farm Bill Offers Hope To Sustainable Agriculture Advocates
Pittsburgh Water Authority Replaced Over 1,341 Lead Water Service Lines By June 30
The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority Thursday said it

will report to the Department of Environmental Protection it
has surpassed its requirement to replace 1,341 lead service
lines by June 30.
As part of this work, PWSA has also replaced over 400
private lead service lines at no direct cost to customers.
PWSA’s replacement program reached new levels of
productivity this month, with five separate contractors and
23
over a dozen work crews replacing lead lines in neighborhoods across PWSA’s drinking water
service area.
The $44 million ratepayer-funded replacement program launched in late March 2018 and
gained momentum in June due to favorable weather conditions, additional contractor and
in-house PWSA crews, and extended working hours to evening and weekends.
Contractors have also employed innovative trenchless replacement methods, like lead
line pulling, to minimize property and roadway disruption. The Authority will continue to
rapidly replace lead lines through the end of the year.
“There is still a long way to go, but meeting this deadline shows that PWSA is clearly
making progress in its lead line replacement program,” Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto said.
“Surpassing the lead line replacement mandate is a major milestone for the Authority and
the public we serve. Our comprehensive Community Lead Response is proving that we can meet
the commitments we make to our regulators, while also protecting the health of our customers,”
said PWSA Executive Director Robert A. Weimar. “We look forward to continued success with
our replacement program and the imminent water treatment upgrades that will reduce corrosion
from lead service lines,” he continued.
“We thank the public for their patience as we refined the replacement program to ensure
we’re removing lead lines from our city the right way. The Board of Directors is committed to
providing the oversight and the resources to ensure PWSA is doing everything possible to reduce
the risk of lead in our water,” said PWSA Board Chairman Paul Leger.
In consultation with the officials at the Allegheny County Health Department and City of
Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto, PWSA halted the lead line replacement program in June
2017.
At the time, PWSA could not legally replace privately-owned lead service lines when it
replaced the publicly-owned portion. Lead levels at homes were shown to increase after these
partial lead line replacements.
In November 2017, state law was amended to allow PWSA and other municipal water
authorities to replace privately-owned lead lines. PWSA’s improved 2018 replacement program
fully funds private lead line replacements at properties identified for public lead line
replacement.
PWSA recommends several steps anybody can take to reduce the risk of lead in tap
water:
-- Test your tap water for free. Kits can be requested online or by calling our Lead Help Desk at
412-255-8987.
-- Search the records the Authority has for your home online. Many of the records are from the
time of original construction, but it’s useful to see if you may have a lead service line. A
registered plumber can also inspect the private line entering your home.
-- If you think you have a lead service line, run your tap for at least one minute before using
water for cooking or drinking. You can also use water filters certified to remove lead. Coupons
for filters can be found online.
-- Visit the Authority’s Lead In Your Drinking Water webpage or call the Lead Help Desk at
412-255-08987 to learn more about our lead line replacement programs.
-- Learn about the Allegheny County Health Department’s programs to reduce lead exposure
from sources other than water at the Department’s Lead Exposure webpage.
NewsClips:
24
Related Stories:
House Committee OKs Bills To Fund Natural Gas Service Extensions, Replace Lead Water
Service Lines
DEP/Pittsburgh Water Authority Agreement Could Allow $1.8M Investment In Lead Line
Replacement
PennVEST, DEP Invite Comments On Proposed Clean Water, Drinking Water Intended
Use Plans, Project Lists, July 12 Meeting
The PA Infrastructure Investment Authority and the Department of Environmental Protection are
inviting public comments on the Federal Fiscal Year FY 2018 Intended Use Plans for the Clean
Water and Drinking Water Revolving Funds. (formal notice)
These IUPs include a list of drinking water, wastewater treatment, nonpoint source and
pollution abatement projects to be considered for a design and engineering or construction loan
or grant from federal funds the Commonwealth expects to receive.
The Drinking Water Revolving Fund will be capitalized with an approximated maximum
of $34 million of Federal funds and $6.8 million of State funds.
Approximately $9.6 million of these funds will be set aside for technical assistance to
small systems, operator training and certification, and source water assessment and protection as
authorized under the Federal Safe Drinking Water Act.
The IUP also includes a narrative work plan that describes how these set-aside funds will
be used.
PennVEST is also allocating an additional $1.4 million for administrative purposes. An
additional $6.8 million must be set-aside for additional subsidization to disadvantaged
communities.
The FY 2018 Drinking Water Fund grant does not have a requirement to set-aside
funding for green infrastructure projects. However, the Commonwealth will continue to promote
them. These projects can fall into one of four categories: (1) water efficiency; (2) energy
efficiency; (3) environmentally innovative; and (4) green stormwater infrastructure and meet the
EPA criteria for green infrastructure.
The Clean Water Revolving Fund will be capitalized with an approximated maximum of
$64.2 million of Federal funds and approximately $12.8 million of State funds.
$1 million dollars will be set aside for program administration costs. An approximated
maximum of $19 million may be set-aside for additional subsidization to disadvantaged
communities and approximately $6.3 million must be set-aside for green infrastructure projects
that fall into one or more of the following categories: (1) water efficiency; (2) energy efficiency;
25
(3) environmentally innovative; and (4) green stormwater infrastructure and meet the EPA
criteria for green infrastructure.
The Intended Use Plans and proposed projects lists are subject to public review every
year.
Public Meeting
A public meeting will be held on July 12 in the 2nd Floor Auditorium of the Rachel
Carson Building, 400 Market Street in Harrisburg starting at 2:00 p.m. to receive comments from
the public on the IUPs.
Comments can also be submitted through DEP’s eComment webpage until July 30.
Copies of the IUPs will be posted on the eComment page and DEP’s State Revolving Fund
Intended Use Plan webpage.
Read the formal notice in the June 30 PA Bulletin for all the details.
NewsClips:
Allentown Could Save $12-14 Million With Revised Plan For Sewage Overflows
Alligator Caught At Clearfield County Wastewater Plant
West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition Meets July 10 In Centre County
The West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition

will hold its quarterly meeting and picnic on July 10 at
Bald Eagle State Park, Pavilion #5 in Centre County
starting at 5:30.
Prior to the meeting, which starts at 6:30, there
will be a picnic dinner. Trout Unlimited will be
providing the meat, potato salad, and beverages. The
event organizers ask that everyone bring a dish to share.
The guest speaker for the evening will be Middle
Susquehanna Riverkeeper Carol Parenzan. She will
share with us some of the work she has been doing
throughout the watershed along with upcoming events surrounding the celebration of the
26
Loyalsock as 2018 River of the Year!
Please RSVP to rachel.kester@tu.org by July 6, so they can have an accurate count for
food. Carpooling will be available from Clearfield, also by contacting Rachel.
Click Here for more on the meeting.
For more information on programs, initiatives and other upcoming events, visit the West
Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition website.
NewsClips:
Crable: Susquehanna River Drawdown Reveals 1,000-Year Old Native American Rock Art In
York County
A Little Bit Of Everything For Everyone At RiverFest In Wilkes-Barre
From Humble Beginnings, RiverFest Weekend Grows In Wilkes-Barre
Editorial: Susquehanna Is Certainly Worth A Visit
Susquehanna River Basin Commission OKs Fee Changes, Adopts Budget, PA Elected Vice
Chair
At its June 15 meeting, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission approved changes to its FY
2019 fee schedule and adopted its FY 2020 budget. It also took action on these items--
-- Elected new officers with the State of New York to serve as Chair and the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania to serve as Vice Chair beginning July 1;
-- Approved the execution of an agreement with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to participate
in a study to update floodplain mapping for Blair County, Pa., a grant amendment with the
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection for additional Phase 3 Watershed
Implementation Plan work; and a subcontract with the Interstate Commission on the Potomac
River Basin;
-- Adopted its FY2019-2021 Water Resources Program;
-- Adopted amendments to the Commission’s Comprehensive Plan; and
-- Approved 16 applications and tabled four others.
Commission staff also reported on delegated settlements, pursuant to Resolution No.
2014-15, with the following project sponsors:
-- Briarwood Golf Club, in the amount of $4,000;
-- Sugar Hollow Water Services, in the amount of $8,000;
-- SWEPI LP – Cowanesque River, in the amount of $10,000; and
-- Valley Green Golf Course, in the amount of $1,500 and addition of a water source.
The voting Commissioners and alternates were: Col. Ed Chamberlayne, Chair,
Commander and District Engineer, Baltimore District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers; Paul
D’Amato, Director, Region 8, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation; Tim
Schaeffer, Acting Deputy Secretary, Water Programs, Pennsylvania Department of
Environmental Protection; and Virginia Kearney, Deputy Director, Water Management
Administration, Maryland Department of the Environment.
27
Visit the SRBC Public Participation Center for more information.
For more information on programs, training opportunities and upcoming events, visit the
Susquehanna River Basin Commission website. Follow SRBC on Twitter, visit them on
YouTube.
NewsClips:
York County
Save The Date: 2018 Delaware River Watershed Forum Sept. 25-26 Cape May, NJ
The Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed will

hold its 2018 Annual Delaware River Watershed
Forum on September 25-26 in Cape May, NJ.
The Forum brings together organizations and
individuals spanning the four watershed states of
Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.
The Forum allows for collaboration among those
working in the watershed, provides capacity-building
and outreach tools for conservation, and nurtures the
next generation of advocates for the Delaware River
Basin.
In celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the National Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, this
year’s Forum will introduce award-winning author and photographer Tim Palmer.
As a writer, conservationist, and environmental planner, Tim has been involved in the
Wild and Scenic Rivers system almost since its founding, and is the author and photographer of
26 books about rivers, the environment, and adventure travel.
In addition to presentations and workshops, there will also be opportunities to participate
in engaging field trips that take advantage of all Cape May has to offer. Attendees will learn
about local nature sites, erosion prevention through oyster reefs, barrier beach ecology, and
monarch butterfly research.
Fill out the RSVP form to let organizers know you're interested in the Forum and they
will email you the final registration page and Forum details once they've been confirmed in the
Summer of 2018.
Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed website.
NewsClips:
Delaware RiverKeeper June 29 RiverWatch Video Report
Sandra Meola Named New Director Of The Coalition For The Delaware River Watershed
Related Story:
28
Delaware River Basin Commission Now Accepting Entries To Summer Photo Contest
Delaware River Basin Commission Now Accepting Entries To Summer Photo Contest
The Delaware River Basin Commission

Wednesday announced it is now accepting entries
for its Summer Photo Contest, highlighting
amateur and professional photography that
conveys the beauty, diversity, function, and
significance of the water resources of the
Delaware River Basin.
The deadline for entries is August 15.
“The warmer temperatures and longer
days of summer are finally here, and the
watershed is alive with people getting outside and appreciating the exceptional water resources
of the Delaware River Basin,” said DRBC Executive Director Steve Tambini. “This seasonal
contest provides the opportunity for the public to share photographs that highlight and celebrate
all that summer in the Basin offers, from the headwaters to the ocean and everywhere in
between.”
The winning image, to be selected by a panel of judges at DRBC, must be taken in the
Delaware River Basin. It will be published in the commission’s annual report, on its social
media pages, and will also be featured on its website. All entrants will receive a certificate of
appreciation from the commission.
Visit DRBC’s Summer Photo Contest webpage for all the details.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Delaware
River Basin Commission website. Click Here to sign up for regulator updates. Follow DRBC
on Twitter. Visit them on YouTube.
NewsClips:
Related Story:
Save The Date: 2018 Delaware River Watershed Forum Sept. 25-26 Cape May, NJ
Stroud Water Research Center UpStream News Now Available
The Chester County-based Stroud Water Research

Center UpStream News is now available featuring
articles on--
-- Life In 3 Dimensions: Students, Stroud, Retired
Teacher Collaborate On 3D Printing
-- Research Reveals Caddisflies Are Ecosystem
Engineers
-- Get Your Freshwater Science Taxonomic
29
Certification (photo)
-- Denis Newbold Named Society For Freshwater Science Fellow
-- Meet Our 2018 Summer Interns!
-- Milton Hershey School Students Get Their Boots Wet
-- Click Here to sign up for your own copy
For more information on programs, initiatives and special events, visit the Stroud Water
Research Center website, Click Here to subscribe to UpStream. Click Here to subscribe to
Stroud’s Educator newsletter. Click Here to become a Friend Of Stroud Research, Like them on
Facebook, Follow on Twitter, include them in your Circle on Google+ and visit their YouTube
Channel.
Food & Water Watch Issues List Of 48 New, Planned Natural Gas-Fired Power Plants In
PA
On June 20, the national Food & Water Watch issued

a special report with a comprehensive list of 48 new,
planned or under construction natural gas-fired power
plants in Pennsylvania as of December 2017.
The report-- Pernicious Placement of Pennsylvania
Power Plants: Natural Gas-Fired Power Plant Boom
Reinforces Environmental Justice-- outlines the
group’s concerns about plants being located in areas
that impact communities of color and economically
disadvantaged areas.
First, the study compared the demographics of the
population living under the three-mile radius surrounding power plants to the overall
Pennsylvania population.
Second, it analyzed the communities (based on census tracts) that were predominantly
covered by the power plants’ three-mile footprints and compared the census tracts (by
demographic traits) covered by the power plants’ footprints to their statewide distribution.
Finally, the study examined the proportion of census tracts (by demographic trait) that
were within three miles of one or more plants — essentially, the chance that any type of
neighborhood might be near a power plant.
A copy of the report is available online. The list of power plants starts on page 22.
The U.S. Energy Information Administration in May projected 5.2 gigawatts of new
natural gas-fired power generation capacity will come online in Pennsylvania during 2018 alone.
(A gigawatt is 1,000 megawatts.)
NewsClip:
Take A While Guess Which Communities Power Plants Have Ended Up In
PUC Offers Energy Savings, Cooling Tips As Summer Hot Weather Alert Is Issued
The Public Utility Commission Friday urged
30
residents across the Commonwealth to consider ways to conserve energy and stay cool as
temperatures across the Mid-Atlantic Region are expected to remain in the 90s through the
weekend.
The PUC noted that hot and humid weather has prompted PJM – the region’s power
transmission organization – to issue a “Hot Weather Alert” through July 1, preparing utilities and
generation operators for conditions that could stress the power grid.
Consumers can find the PUC’s Summer Heat Wave fact sheet on the PUC website.
Additional tips are available on the PUC Facebook page and Twitter account (@PA_PUC), or by
searching the #WaysToStayCool hashtag.
Energy conservation and cooling suggestions include:
-- Turn off non-essential appliances and as many lights as possible.
-- Postpone using appliances that produce heat, such as clothes dryers, dishwashers and stoves
until after 7 p.m. These appliances also use significant amounts of electricity adding to the
demand on an electric infrastructure that is already stressed during peak hours due to heat.
-- Use ceiling fans to circulate the air, keeping rooms and you cooler.
-- Relax in rooms that do not receive direct sunlight.
-- If you have window air conditioning units, close off rooms not in use.
-- Make sure all air conditioner filters are clean and in good shape.
-- Replace filters monthly for maximum benefit and check air and return vents on a regular basis
to keep circulation air paths clear.
-- On hot and humid days, set your thermostat at 78 degrees when you are home and 85 degrees
or off when you are away for long periods.
NewsClips:
PPL Reminds Customers To Be Prepared For Heat Wave
Kummer: Hot Weather Warning: These Philadelphia Neighborhoods Get Hottest In A Heat
Wave
PA Towns Are Saving Millions By Teaming Up To Buy LED Lights
Philadelphia Modernizes Building Code, Addresses Climate Change
Related Story:
DEP Blog: Ways To Save Energy, Money This Summer
By Neil Shader, DEP Press Secretary
Summertime living can be easy, but that hot sun and

humid air can drive up energy bills as we turn the
temperature down on the thermostat.
Improving your home’s efficiency when it comes to
heating, air conditioning, and other energy use is an
easy way to save on your electric bills and cut down
on air pollution from power plants.
There are many ways to cut down energy use in
31
your home – some are simple fixes, others are much more involved (and often more expensive).
One of the first steps is to determine how much energy your home is using, and how much of it
might be wasted.
DEP’s website lists several different options for figuring out how much energy is being
used efficiently, and how much is going toward air conditioning the whole neighborhood. The
options to understand your efficiency range from do-it-yourself estimates to full professional
consultations (with financial assistance available to those who qualify).
Next is to start cutting down on the energy used and the energy wasted. Some simple tips
to reduce energy use, especially in the summertime, are:
-- Set the air conditioning 4 to 6 degrees warmer. This will cause the AC to run less often, and
use less energy.
-- For cooler nights, open the windows and air out the house, then close the windows and blinds
or curtains in the morning to keep that cool air inside.
-- Use fans to maximize air flow from air conditioners and open windows. But don’t forget to
turn any fans off when you leave a room (fans cool people, not rooms).
-- If possible, cook outside. Summertime is a great time to grill out back or at the local park, and
cooking outside will keep all that warm air from building up inside.
Other methods include caulking windows to reduce leaks or replacing less-efficient light
bulbs. More involved strategies can involve replacing older, less efficient appliances like air
conditioners, washing machines, and dishwashers with newer models.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach to reducing your energy needs, but DEP’s website
has links to recommendations both for the do-it-yourselfers and those who would rather leave it
up to professionals.
A variety of programs and rebates can help homeowners reduce their energy use. These
range from rebates for energy efficient appliances to low-cost loans and financial assistance for
weatherization and energy efficient home repairs.
Even though temperatures might be high this summer, there is no reason that your
electric bills need to be, too. With just a few simple changes, Pennsylvanians can cut down on
their energy use, and their utility bills.
Click Here to watch Energy 101: Home Energy Assessment video.
More information on saving energy is available on DEP’s Energy Programs Office -
Residential and Energy Programs Office -Business & Institutional webpages.
Your electric distribution company offers a variety of energy efficiency programs under
Act 129 both for business and residential users. Click Here for residential information. Click
Here for business users.
For more information on environmental programs in Pennsylvania, visit DEP’s website,
Click Here to sign up for DEP’s monthly newsletter, sign up for DEP Connects events, sign up
for DEP’s eNotice, visit DEP’s Blog, Like DEP on Facebook, Follow DEP on Twitter and visit
DEP’s YouTube Channel.
NewsClips:
Wave
32
Related Stories:
Penn State Extension: Intro To Electric Markets & Procurement Strategies Webinar July 26
Wolf Signs Bill Authorizing New Local Funding Option For Energy Efficiency, Clean Energy
Projects For Business
More Than 86,000 Pennsylvanians Work In Clean Energy, Energy Efficiency Jobs
Penn State Extension: Intro To Electric Markets & Procurement Strategies Webinar July
26
Penn State Extension will host an Introduction to Electric

Markets and Procurement Strategies Webinar on July 26
from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m.
Pennsylvania was one of the first states to deregulate energy
in 1996. With deregulation of the energy market,
businesses as well as homeowners can now choose their
energy supplier.
Do you know what factors should be considered in making
the best economical choice? Join us for a live webinar to
find out!
Scott Harford and Kevin Dean, energy management consultants with Penn State’s
Facilities Engineering Institute, will explore the benefits of a deregulated market and the energy
procurement process.
Topics will include: Deregulated energy markets; Energy procurement tips; and
Managing market-based risk.
This webinar is geared for businesses, township officials, organizations, and all who are
interested in the commercial procurement of energy markets.
Click Here to sign up or for more details.
NewsClips:
Related Story:
PUC Hosts First-Ever Exercise On A Large-Scale Natural Gas Distribution Emergency
The Public Utility Commission Tuesday announced it recently gathered emergency response
33
agencies, utilities and human service organizations for PA Operation Blue Flame 2018 – a
first-ever statewide exercise intended to test the state’s potential responses to and recovery from
a large-scale disruption of natural gas service.
In collaboration with the PA Emergency Management Agency and UGI Utilities, Inc.,
PUC Chairman Gladys M. Brown and Commissioner John F. Coleman joined key Commission
staff, along with representatives from numerous participating organizations, including: Columbia
Gas of Pennsylvania, Enbridge, Inc., National Fuel Gas Distribution Corporation, PECO Energy
Company, Department of Aging, Department of Environmental Protection, Department of
Health, Department of Human Services, Department of Labor & Industry, the Governor’s Office
of Homeland Security, Pennsylvania National Guard, Peoples Gas, Philadelphia Gas Works,
PJM and the Westmoreland County Emergency Management Agency.
The PA Operation Blue Flame 2018 scenario explored issues related to a major natural
gas disruption during the winter months, resulting in the interruption of natural gas service to
numerous communities.
The exercise tested how agencies would communicate with each other and coordinate a
response to various related issues, including the impact of a long-term gas outage on
gas-powered generators, residents, schools, hospitals, nursing homes, businesses, and critical
infrastructure in Pennsylvania.
“This month’s exercise is part of an ongoing PUC collaboration with public and private
sector organizations to strengthen Pennsylvania’s ability to prepare for, respond to, and recover
from wide-reaching events impacting our energy systems,” said PUC Chairman Brown. “The
lessons we learn during drills like this helps ensure that agencies and utilities work together more
efficiently and effectively during real-world emergencies.”
“PEMA routinely holds exercises that test our capabilities and help us develop working
relationships with other agencies, as well as our private sector partners,” said PEMA Director
Richard D. Flinn Jr. “These exercises are critical to helping us fine-tune our response and
recovery efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of the Pennsylvanians we serve.”
Feedback from this exercise is being compiled by the PUC’s Bureau of Technical Utility
Services to help guide future Commission activities concerning threats to critical utility systems,
including natural gas, water, wastewater treatment, telecommunications and transportation
services.
So-called “Black Sky” events – defined as extraordinary events capable of producing
wide-reaching outages that last significantly longer than typical weather or operational incidents
– are a major focus for the Commission.
PUC Chairman Brown was recently appointed to lead a national committee on critical
infrastructure, and the Commission has joined with other state response agencies to host Black
Sky exercises in 2016 and 2017.
NewsClip:
First Electric Bus To Pass New Federal Standard Protocol Does It In Altoona
Nova Bus Tuesday announced that it passed the

U.S. Federal Transit Administration’s new model
34
bus test with flying colors and with a score of 80 percent.
The tests were conducted in Altoona, Pennsylvania, and are required for any company
selling buses in the United States that are purchased with federal funds.
It is the first all-electric bus to pass the new test protocol implemented in 2016.
The Altoona program provides performance information and ensures the safety and
reliability of new transit buses through a battery of tests that receive an objective analysis and
breakdown.
The Nova Bus LFSe model stood out as especially durable and reliable, completing the
required 15,000 miles (24,000 kilometers) in a record time of 195 days.
Another record was broken for distance; 1118 miles (1,800 kilometers) in a week, that is
more than 220 miles (320 kilometers) per day. That is unprecedented for an electric bus, and
proof that OppCharge and best bus reliability provide the most in-service availability.
The results also proved safety is a core value at Nova Bus. The Nova Bus LFSe easily
passed the stability test in double lane change and has the best braking distances in its category.
This performance is due in large part to optimization of the quantity of traction batteries
and weight distribution on the vehicle to allow it to safely transport more passengers.
"We are extremely proud to be the first to complete the Pass/Fail standard with an electric
bus", said Ralph Acs, President of Nova Bus and Prevost and Senior Vice President Americas of
Volvo Bus. "Our Nova Bus LFSe buses are already in service in Montreal and are known to offer
distinct advantages both environmentally and economically. This certification—and especially
being the first to do it with a fully electric bus—just goes to show that Nova Bus can meet the
challenge of electric urban mobility."
For more information, visit the Nova Bus website.
Opportunity To Bid On DEP Underground Tank Cleanup At Capital Bus Company In

Dauphin County
The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the June 30 PA Bulletin of an

opportunity to bid on an underground storage tank removal project in Harrisburg, Dauphin
County at the Capital Bus Company.
The Department of Environmental Protection has available a current list of
Abandoned Mine Reclamation, Acid Mine Drainage, Surface Mine Reclamation, Cleaning Out
and Plugging Oil and Gas Wells, Waterways Engineering (Concrete Dams/Concrete Lined
Channels, Walls and Box Culverts, etc.), Hazardous Site Remediation, Removal and Disposal of
Underground Storage Tanks, and Wetland Restoration projects available for bidding. Click Here
for the list.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has a current list of bid
proposals for construction projects in State Parks and State Forests available online. Click Here
for the list.
DCNR, State Officials Visit PA Outdoor Corps Jobs Sites In Schuylkill, Lackawanna
Counties
35
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn and other
state officials visited two projects underway by the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps at Locust Lake
State Park, Schuylkill County, and Clarks Summit Borough, Lackawanna County.
The Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps is a Wolf Administration initiative offering work
experience, job training, and educational opportunities to young people who complete recreation
and conservation projects on Pennsylvania’s public lands.
The program helps protect and restore natural resources while providing young people
with the knowledge to be good stewards of the environment.
“Beginning its third year of operation, the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps certainly is
emerging as a ‘win-win’ effort for all involved,” Dunn said. “You young men and women who
will accomplish so much here at Locust Lake are indicative of the corps’ spirit and commitment
I’ve seen in state parks and forests across the state.”
Dunn joined other participants at the state park event in meeting members of the
Hazleton-based youth corps and visiting one of their project sites, where they are rebuilding
trails and repairing fencing.
The DCNR group then traveled to Clarks Summit, Lackawanna County, where
Wilkes-Barre-based youth corps members are helping the local shade tree commission inventory
trees.
Employed across the state in paid positions, corps members have contributed to public
lands by undertaking light construction, invasive species management, and the rehabilitation of
green space, shorelines, nature trails, and park and forest structures.
Initial roll-out of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps in July 2016 was financed through the
Department of Labor & Industry’s Reemployment Fund. The Department of Labor & Industry
remains a program co-sponsor.
The corps is based in state park and forest locations in rural and urban areas, particularly
those areas close to disadvantaged communities and school districts.
Crews are dispatched within the region, working on public lands with resource and
infrastructure project needs.
The Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps consists of two components: a seven-week, summer
program for youth between the ages of 15-18; and a 10-month program for young adults ages
18-25.
Locations were set up across the state to help facilitate participation by youth and young
adults in disadvantaged communities. Crew bases include: Altoona, Erie, Greensburg,
Harrisburg, Hazleton, McConnellsburg, Meadville, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Reading, Renovo,
Saint Marys, Uniontown, Wellsboro, Wilkes-Barre, Williamsport, and York.
To oversee the program, DCNR recently appointed Michael D. Piaskowski as manager of
the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps.
Statewide efforts are overseen by the Student Conservation Association, America’s oldest
and largest youth conservation organization.
For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps webpage.
(Photo: PA Outdoor Corp crew and Secretary Dunn repair fence at Locust Lake State Park,
36
Schuylkill County.)
NewsClips:
Upper Delaware BioBlitz June 29-30 In Starlight, Wayne County
The Upper Delaware BioBlitz on June 29-30 is a biannual

event where 9 teams of scientists and amateur naturalists
from all over the region meet to collect, identify, and
catalog every living species visible to the naked eye.
This is the 4th BioBlitz since 2013 and begin on June 29
and continue through to June 30.
The public is invited from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on June 30 to see
what has been collected, meet the scientists and amateur
naturalists doing the work, learn about biodiversity at the site, and participate on walks or in
workshops on the site.
At a large tent called "base camp," all the teams bring specimens they have collected and
work here to identify them down to the species level.
On each team's table, they may have specimen trays, aquariums, terrariums, microscopes,
hand lenses, and reference materials so you can learn about what you're seeing.
There are also tours on site led by team members so that you can see where specimens
were collected on site and view them in context in the habitat.
The BioBlitz is hosted by the Delaware Highlands Conservancy, Friends of the Upper
Delaware River, Lacawac Sanctuary Field Station & Environmental Education Center and the
Cornell Cooperative Extension Sullivan County, New York.
This event will take place at the Gales Property, PA Rt. 191, Starlight, Wayne County,
Intersection with PA Rt. 370, Starlight, PA 18417.
A schedule of programs and walks will be posted on the Upper Delaware BioBlitz and
Facebook page.
If you are interested in volunteering or would like to donate to the event please send an
email to: info@upperdelawarebioblitz.com.
Click Here to register online here and find out more!
NewsClips:
Carly Naundorff, Ali Brand Winners Of Delaware Highlands Conservancy Scholarships
The Delaware Highlands Conservancy Wednesday

announced it has awarded its annual Delaware
Highlands Conservancy/Yeaman Scholarship for
$1,000 to Carly Naundorff, a 2018 graduate from the
37
Delaware Valley School District in Pike County, and the Vanessa Van Gorder Memorial
Scholarship for $1,000 to Ali Brand, a 2018 graduate of Wallenpaupack Area High School,
drawing students from Pike and Wayne counties.
The Yeaman scholarship has been awarded annually since 2004 to a student planning to
pursue a field in environmental studies in college. Given in honor of the Conservancy’s founder,
Barbara Yeaman, the scholarship embodies Barbara’s vision to protect our special Upper
Delaware River region now and for future generations.
Recipient Carly Naundorff is an active volunteer in her local community with Relay for
Life and the American Legion, and is a member of the National Honor Society, the National Art
Honor Society, and Odyssey of the Mind.
In the fall, Carly will attend Eckerd College in St. Petersburg, Florida, where she will
major in environmental studies.
A lifelong environmental advocate, Carly explains: “I am an outsider. No, not the
stereotypical outsider, the one that just doesn’t fit in, but the one whose heart knocks through her
ribs when exploring what’s beyond the new technological advances: Earth’s natural wonders. In
the future, I hope to not only be an environmental advocate but also the voice heard across the
world and in developing countries on the importance of our environment.”
The Vanessa Van Gorder Memorial Scholarship was established in 2015 in honor of
Vanessa, who passed away on December 26, 2014. A recent graduate from West Chester
University with a degree in education, Vanessa was passionate about the outdoors and loved
exploring the region with her friends and family.
The Conservancy established this scholarship in Vanessa’s memory and to honor her
dream of becoming an educator.
Recipient Ali Brand will attend Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania in the
fall where she will major in Secondary English Education.
Ali is a member of the National Honor Society, a member of the Girl Scouts for the
entirety of her school career, and was active in extracurriculars, participating in the marching
band as a section leader, theater, and the concert choir.
According to Ali, “It is because of my love of reading that I chose to major in Secondary
English Education. I want to carry on what I have learned and instill this into my students. I
believe that the time between seventh and twelfth grade is the time of the most academic and
personal growth, and I want to inspire and prepare them for adulthood in the way that my
teachers have inspired and prepared me.”
Click Here for more information on the scholarship programs.
To continue to inspire youth and encourage study and careers in natural science and
education, contributions to the Conservancy are encouraged. Donations toward the scholarship
fund and other environmental education and conservation initiatives can be made online or by
mail to PO Box 218, Hawley, PA 18428.
For more information on programs, initiatives and special events, visit the Delaware
Highlands Conservancy website or call 570-226-3164 or 845-583-1010. Click Here to sign up
for regular updates from the Conservancy, Like on Facebook and Follow on Twitter. Learn about
the Green Lodging Partnership initiative. Click Here to support their work.
(Photos: Carly Naundorff and Ali Brand.)
NewsClips:
38
DCNR Blog: Guided Whitewater Rafting At State Parks A Scenic, Stimulating Adventure!
Have you ever wanted to try whitewater rafting but

didn’t know where to start?
Pennsylvania is home to some of the best beginner and
intermediate whitewater in the Mid-Atlantic. There are
many opportunities for guided whitewater rafting in
Pennsylvania state parks. The real question is: “Where
to go first?”
Here are a couple of the best areas for guided
whitewater rafting in state parks.
Where To Go In Southwestern PA
Located among the southern reaches of the Allegheny Mountains, Ohiopyle State Park
encompasses approximately 20,500 acres of rugged natural beauty while serving as the gateway
to the Laurel Highlands.
Close to major metropolitan areas and offering vast recreational opportunities, Ohiopyle
is the largest state park in Pennsylvania, attracting millions of visitors every year, mostly for its
whitewater.
What To Expect On The Yough
Ohiopyle derives from a Delaware Indian word translating to “white frothy water.”
Flowing through the very heart of the park is the 132-mile Youghiogheny River -- or Yough for
short. It’s one of the most actively run sections of whitewater east of the Mississippi.
“Youghiogheny” means, “a stream flowing in a contrary direction,” due to it being one of
the few rivers in the country to flow from south to north.
This world-renowned stretch of whitewater has defining characteristics that set it apart
from the rest. It’s very different from the wide-open Susquehanna River or slightly rippled
Delaware River.
With massive, predominantly sandstone boulders scattered throughout, a rafting line
looks seemingly unsurpassable. It may look as if someone just dropped a cluster of boulders in
the middle of the river!
This landscape calls for quick maneuvers and tight squeezes through its gushing
labyrinths. But don’t let this description deter you, as it is one of the most scenic rivers in the
continental U.S.
Just beckoning to be experienced, licensed outfitters in Ohiopyle State Park offer rafting
trips lead by trained guides, whom are always keen on showing a rookie down their first Yough
run!
Just below the renowned 15-foot Ohiopyle Falls begins one of the most popular
intermediate sections of whitewater in the east. The Lower Section features 7.5 miles of class
III-IV rapids. It is considered a drop and pool river with rapids separated by calm deep pools,
allowing you to catch your breath and enjoy the scenery.
The Middle Yough is a scenic, 11-mile beginner section of class I-II whitewater. It is best
suited for families with young ones and includes opportunities to paddle, splash, and even swim.
39
This section offers opportunities to experience the Yough escorted by raft or inflatable kayak
alongside trained guides.
Guided Trips On The Yough
Guided trips are available from licensed commercial outfitters that provide rafts, guides,
and all necessary safety equipment and transportation to and from the river.
Guided trips are offered on the Yough during the spring, summer, and fall. Trips are
available daily throughout the summer. Plan to go between April and October.
For more detailed information and a list of licensed, commercial outfitters currently
operating on the Lower and Middle Youghiogheny River, visit the Ohiopyle State Park
whitewater boating webpage.
Where To Go In Northeastern PA
Located in northeastern Pennsylvania, and winding through the mossy valleys and ridges
of the Pocono Mountains, lies the Lehigh River.
With 30 miles of park-protected mountains, Lehigh Gorge State Park features picturesque
waterfalls, diverse plant species, and class II-III whitewater. Lehigh also means, “where there are
forks” in Delaware Indian, due to its many islands.
What To Expect On The Lehigh River
On this river, you can experience beginner-to-intermediate guided whitewater rafting
surrounded by a lush forested gorge, edged by boulders, wildflowers, and tumbling waters.
The Upper Lehigh has 15 thrilling rapids along its 9-mile section. For a longer day on a
more secluded section, try the Lower, squeezing in 18 rapids within 12 miles.
These are the most exhilarating sections and require intermediate rafting skills. Featuring
spirited class I-II rapids and swimming opportunities, Section III is the family float trip for
beginners and small children.
Guided Trips On The Lehigh River
Inexperienced boaters should not attempt the Lehigh River without qualified guides.
Outfitted trips are available from concessionaires that provide rafts, guides, all necessary safety
equipment, and transportation to and from the river.
Guided trips are offered on the Lehigh River during the spring, summer, and fall. Trips
are available daily throughout the summer. Plan to go between May and October.
For more detailed information and a list of licensed, commercial outfitters currently
operating on the Lehigh River, please visit the Lehigh Gorge State Park whitewater boating
webpage.
What To Consider When Planning A Trip
It’s important to plan ahead, and this includes understanding the international scale of
river difficulty.
Class I is categorized as easy, while Class IV is advanced. It’s important to understand
that this system is not exact. Rivers do not always fit easily into one category and there may be
regional interpretations or weather-related impacts.
Weather and water temperatures will dictate what you should wear on the river. It is
always best to call before your trip and ask what the recommended attire will be.
Commercial outfitters may provide wetsuits and splash jackets for a small fee. In warmer
conditions, it is best to wear a swimsuit, synthetic shirt (not cotton), hat for sun protection, and
sturdy footwear (no slip-on shoes).
You should plan to bring: Plenty of water; Sunglasses with a retainer strap; Sunscreen;
40
Carabiners; A waterproof camera (if you want some fun photography); Lunch (if not provided by
the outfitter); and A towel and extra set of dry clothes for after the trip.
Interested in learning more about paddling and water sports? Check the DCNR calendar
of events for outdoor programs on the water at state parks and forests. Some are beginner
education events, while some are for more those more experienced on the water.
You can learn more about Pennsylvania waterways and their classes of difficulty from
American Whitewater.
To learn what recreation opportunities Pennsylvania state parks and forests offer, explore
DCNR’s What To Do webpage.
NewsClips:
Brodhead Watershed Assn. Get Outdoors Poconos Minisink Park Hike July 21 In Monroe
County
The Brodhead Watershed Association will host another in

its series of Get Outdoors Poconos hikes on July 21 at
Minisink Park in Monroe County.
Minisink Park is a natural oasis within walking distance
of Delaware Water Gap, Pa., tucked in 28 acres of
greenery between Route 80 and two creeks.
Join hike leader Carol Hillestad for this easy-to-moderate
hike of about 2.4 miles. A medical professional from
Lehigh Valley Hospital Pocono will be on hand to talk
about the benefits of walking for health.
For an easy walk of less than a mile, from this point you
41
can loop back to the start and call it a day. Or continue on the trail along one of the soccer fields,
back down to Cherry Creek and over the stepping stones.
Across the creek, after a bit of a climb, you get a bird’s-eye view of Route 80 from the
footbridge that spans the highway and leads to the walkable village of Delaware Water Gap. The
“trail” is now a shady sidewalk lined with small businesses — an outdoors outfitter, a coffee
roaster, the famous Deer Head Inn.
After an easy stroll and perhaps a bit of deliciousness from a charming shop, find your
way back at the trailhead to finish a fine day outdoors.
Soccer fields and playground equipment share the space with walking trails. Much of the
land has been left natural, providing food, nesting sites and cover for wrens, goldfinches, and
many other birds, as well as fox, deer, raccoons, skunks, and other mammals.
The trails are packed gravel, with only very gentle inclines, making them accessible for
people of most abilities.
The hike begins at 10:00 a.m. Each hiker will receive a token to use at participating
Delaware Water Gap merchants for a coffee, ice cream or other treat in the village, thanks to
support from generous sponsors.
The hike is free, but registration is required. Directions will be provided upon
registration. Call 570-839-1120 or 570-629-2727 or send email to:
info@brodheadwatershed.org.
Click Here for more information on the hike.
The Get Outdoors Poconos hiking series is administered by Brodhead Watershed
Association and supported by a grant from the William Penn Foundation. We welcome
partnership with Lehigh Valley Hospital Pocono.
Brodhead Watershed Association website.
DCNR ATV/Snowmobile Grants Webinar July 3
DCNR will host a webinar on July 3 on ATV/

Snowmobile Grants Webinar from 11:00 to Noon. The
webinar is designed for those interested in applying for
grant funding for ATV and snowmobile trail grants.
The webinar will provide a general overview about the
ATV and snowmobile trails grant program, including
eligible project activities, funding sources, and strategies
on how to create a competitive grant application.
The next round of ATV/Snowmobile Grants will open
January 15, 2019 and close April 15, 2019.
More information about the program is available online. Questions can be emailed to
Leslie Sarvis at: lsarvis@pa.gov or by calling 717-772-3321.
Visit DCNR’s Grant Opportunities webpage for more information on these and other
grant opportunities.
42
NewsClips:
June 27 Resource Newsletter Now Available From DCNR
The June 27 edition of the Resource newsletter is now

available from the Department of Conservation and Natural
Resources featuring articles on--
-- Guided Whitewater Rafting At State Parks A Scenic,
Stimulating Adventure!
-- DCNR, Partners Celebrate Loyalsock Creek’s River Of The
Year Honor, PA Rivers Month
-- State, Local Partners Celebrate Wissahickon Forbidden
Drive Trail As Trail Of The Year
-- DCNR Expands Online interactive Map To Offer More
Services To Hunters, Visitors
-- DCNR Outlines 123 Action Steps In Climate Change
Mitigation, Adaptation Report
-- Good Natured Pennsylvanians: David Raymond, Michaux State Forest
-- DCNR, State Officials Visit PA Outdoor Corps Jobs Sites In Schuylkill, Lackawanna
-- DCNR Riparian Forest Buffer, ATV/Snowmobile Grants Webinars Both On July 3
-- Celebrate 125 Years Of PA State Parks With Musical, Storytelling Performances
-- DCNR Names New Buchanan District Forester
-- Governor’s Advisory Council Seeks To Fill Openings On Fish & Boat Commission Board
-- Click Here to sign up for your own copy
DCNR’s website, Visit the Good Natured DCNR Blog, Click Here for upcoming events, Click
Here to hook up with DCNR on other social media-- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.
43
NewsClips:
Related Story:
DCNR, Local Groups Join In Celebration Of State Park System’s 125th Anniversary
[June 28, 2018]
PEC: Newsletter From Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Now Available
The latest edition of the Laurel Highlands

Conservation Landscape newsletter is now available
from the PA Environmental Council and its partners
featuring stories about--
-- Trail development;
-- Parks and outdoor recreation;
-- Cultural/historic assets;
-- Land and water conservation;
-- Grant opportunities;
-- Meetings and conferences; and
-- Regional events that share the goals of the
Landscape.
The Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Initiative works in Westmoreland,
Fayette, Somerset, and Cambria Counties, with most of the work focused along four featured
sub-landscapes: Laurel Ridge, Chestnut Ridge, the Great Allegheny Passage, and the
Stonycreek-Quemahoning Initiative.
If you would like to contribute, contact Laura Bray with questions or about signing up to
receive the newsletter by sending email to: lbray@pecpa.org to share your story.
For more information on programs, initiatives and special events, visit the PA
Environmental Council website, visit the PEC Blog, follow PEC on Twitter or Like PEC on
Facebook. Visit PEC’s Audio Room for the latest podcasts. Click Here to receive regular
updates from PEC.
44
Wildlands Conservancy Highlights July Educational, Fun! Programs
The Lehigh Valley-based Wildlands Conservancy Wednesday highlighted educational and fun!
programs coming up in July, including, among others--
-- Pool Wildlife Sanctuary Tubing Tuesdays! July 3, July 10, July 17, July 24, July 31
-- July 5: Prek Pathfinders: Into the Creek!
-- July 13: Appalachian Bat Count
-- July 20: S’mores & Fireflies Hike
-- July 28: Full Moon Paddle
For more information on programs, initiatives and special events, visit the Wildlands
Conservancy website. Like on Facebook, Follow on Twitter and Join on Instagram. Click Here
to support the Conservancy.
Gifford Pinchot's Grey Towers Offers Mansion Tours, Lecture, Landscape Painting In
July, Festival Of Wood Aug. 4-5
Gifford Pinchot’s Grey Towers National Historic

Site in Milford, Pike County will offer mansion
tours, a free lecture and landscape painting in
July.
Was Gifford Pinchot moved by his spirituality as
he was making groundbreaking progress in the
American conservation movement?
On July 12 there will be a free outdoor
inspirational painting program, Come Paint en
Plein Air, on the estate grounds. Join this
non-instructional program or observe the artists
at work from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Call 570-775-6896 for details.
On July 21, a free lecture and discussion about the spiritual life of conservationist Gifford
Pinchot, founder and first chief of the US Forest Service and two-term Pennsylvania Governor, is
planned at 5:30 p.m. The program will be repeated on August 2.
Light refreshments offered by the Grey Towers Heritage Association will follow.
Reservations suggested by calling 570-296-9625 or send email to: info@greytowers.org.
Guided tours of the first floor of the 1886 mansion and the landscaped grounds are
offered Thursdays through Mondays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. On weekends, the last tour of the day
(4 pm) brings visitors upstairs. Grey Towers is closed in observance of Independence Day on
July 4.
Mark your calendars for the signature event of the year on August 4 and 5 for the 14th
Annual Festival of Wood offers wood crafts, children’s activities, chainsaw carvings, educational
exhibits, tree pruning demonstrations and much, much more. Click Here to download the
Festival schedule.
Remember, August 11 is Gifford Pinchot’s 153rd birthday! And there’s a party!
For more information on programs, initiatives and other upcoming events, visit the Grey
45
Towers Heritage Association. Click Here to sign up for updates from the Association, Like them
on Facebook, Follow them on Twitter, visit their YouTube Channel, become part of their
Google+ Circle and follow them on Instagram.
Also visit the Grey Towers Historic Site website and the Pinchot Institute for
Conservation website for information on its conservation research and policy programs. Click
Here to sign up for the Institute’s regular updates.
Join Western PA Audubon's Backyard Habitat Certification Program
Your backyard is your sanctuary and the

Audubon Society of Western Pennsylvania can
help you to make it a beneficial location for
birds, insects, butterflies, and animals.
The Backyard Habitat Certification Program
will connect you with the resources that you
need to make real change in your backyard,
front yard, or even on your patio.
ASWP will visit your yard twice during the
process, create a custom plan for your property, and provide you with a variety of resources to
help you along the way.
For all the details, visit the ASWP’s Backyard Habitat Certification Program webpage or
call 412-963-6100 for more information or to enroll in the program.
The program fee is $35 for ASWP members and $50 for non-members. The non-member
fee comes with a 1 year complimentary household membership.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Audubon
Society of Western Pennsylvania website.
Visit PA Audubon’s Audubon At Home webpage for more information on what you can
do to improve bird habitat around your community.
Feature: PA Natural Heritage Program: Restoring Habitat For The Eastern Massasauga
Rattlesnake
Earlier this year, during the coldest

months of this long winter, a small crew
of Pennsylvania Natural Heritage
Program zoologists spent time improving
habitat for the eastern massasauga
rattlesnake (Sistrurus catenatus
catenatus).
This small, non-aggressive rattlesnake is
smaller and much more confined in its
habitat needs than the timber rattlesnake
(Crotalus horridus). It is rare for someone to see one of these snakes.
46
While this endangered species is hibernating deep underground in crayfish and mammal
burrows that provide access to groundwater, our crew was busy removing trees and brush that
overgrew the snake’s preferred old-field habitats.
One of the primary reasons that massasauga populations are declining nationwide is
vegetative succession that casts shade over the once sunny fields and grassy areas that the snakes
use for basking and foraging.
Without these exposed, warm areas the cold-blooded snakes cannot carry out important
functions like digestion and reproduction.
Over the past 10 years PNHP staff have been working within massasauga sites on state
and private land to help remove the brush and young trees that create shade and discourage the
snakes from using the habitat.
We do a lot of the work by hand using chainsaws and brush clearing saws to minimize
ground disturbance in sensitive wetland areas where the snakes are likely to be hibernating.
During the winter or in less sensitive areas, we also have used contractors with rubber
tracked skid-steers with a brush cutter mounted on the front.
These machines are very effective at removing large areas of brush in limited time and if
done when the ground is frozen solid, there is no soil or wetland disturbance and more
importantly no chance of disturbing or hitting a snake.
This work also benefits species that prefer early successional habitat, like woodcock and
grouse, which have also seen declines in their populations.
The opportunities to conduct this important work have come from partnerships with the
USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service, the Fish and Boat Commission, the Game
Commission, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and from generous private
donors.
Private landowners have also been great partners in massasauga conservation, opening
their lands for restoration work and taking a great interest in the animals and their future
protection.
In December, one landowner granted the acquisition of 2.5 acres of massasauga habitat
after learning about the snakes and their plight. Together with other landowners, we have
restored or expanded over 100 acres of habitat on public and private land.
This winter our work focused on a Western Pennsylvania Conservancy property and was
made possible through a partnership with the Game Commission’s Voluntary Public
Access-Habitat Incentive Program (VPA-HIP).
This spring we hope to see snakes using the habitat that we restored as we continue to
look for opportunities to improve and maintain habitat for the eastern massasauga in
Pennsylvania.
For more information about the eastern massasauga and our work, please visit the WPC
eastern massasauga rattlesnake webpage.
The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy works under contract with the Department of
Conservation and Natural Resources to provide Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program services,
including the management of the Pennsylvania Natural Diversity Inventory database and
collection of information on Pennsylvania’s natural communities and rare, threatened, and
endangered species.
More information is available on programs, initiatives and special events at the Western
PA Conservancy website. Click Here to sign up for regular updates from the Conservancy, Like
47
them on Facebook, Follow them on Twitter, add them to your Circle on Google+, join them on
Instagram, visit the Conservancy’s YouTube Channel or add them to your network on Linkedin.
Click Here to support their work.
(Photo: Top- Before habitat work, Bottom- After, Right- eastern massasauga rattlesnake.)
(Written by the Western PA Conservancy.)

Governor’s Advisory Council Seeks To Fill Openings On Fish & Boat Commission Board
The Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing and

Conservation is seeking qualified candidates to fill an upcoming
vacancy on the board of the Fish and Boat Commission from the
First District, which includes Butler, Clarion, Crawford, Erie,
Forest, Lawrence, Mercer, Venango, and Warren counties.
All resumes and cover letters must be received by July 20.
The district has been represented with distinction by Edward
Mascharka III, Erie County, since June 21, 2010.
“The governor is reaching out to the anglers and boaters of
northwest Pennsylvania to find a diverse group of qualified
applicants, one of which will fill this vacancy,” said Robb Miller, director of the advisory
council. “We’re encouraging anyone interested in volunteering on the board to send us a letter
that describes their qualifications and experience, along with a copy of their professional
resume.”
As required by the Fish and Boat Code, to qualify as a commissioner, the applicant must
be a resident of the district and be well-informed about conservation, restoration, fishing, and
boating.
The term of service is four years and members may serve three consecutive terms upon
being nominated by the governor and confirmed by a majority of the members of the
Pennsylvania Senate. While commissioners are not compensated, they do receive travel
reimbursement.
Individuals interested in applying for this seat can email their information to Robb Miller
at: robmille@pa.gov or send their materials to: Robb Miller, 400 Market Street, 7th Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101-2301.
Related Story:
Two New Members Bring Game Commission Board Up To Full Strength
Two New Members Bring Game Commission Board Up To Full Strength
Two vacancies on the Board of Game Commissioners were filled

recently by Scott H. Foradora, of DuBois, and Dennis R. Fredericks,
of Amity, to bring the board to its full complement of eight.
Foradora was selected from Region 3, which includes Cameron,
Centre, Clearfield, Clinton, Elk, Jefferson, McKean and Potter
48
counties. This position was left vacant when former Game Commissioner David Putnam’s term
expired.
Fredericks was selected from Region 2, which includes Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver,
Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Washington and Westmoreland counties. This position was left vacant
when former Game Commissioner Robert Schlemmer’s term expired.
Commissioners are selected from eight geographic areas of the Commonwealth to ensure
uniform representation throughout Pennsylvania. Once appointed, however, commissioners
represent all Pennsylvania citizens, not just those from their regions.
Foradora grew up in Brockway in Jefferson County, where the hunting tradition runs
deep in his family. He’s been hunting since he was 12, more than 40 years. He enjoys hunting all
game and trapping in Pennsylvania, but, like many hunters, deer are his favorite, followed by
turkeys.
Foradora is a member of the NRA and the Eastern Wild Sheep Foundation.
“The Eastern Wild Sheep Foundation spends a lot of funds for wildlife conservation right
here in Pennsylvania,” he said.
When he’s not hunting, fishing or trapping, Foradora can be found in his
insurance-business office in DuBois, where he puts his accounting and economics degree from
Indiana University of Pennsylvania to use.
Foradora said his extensive experience in outdoor Pennsylvania will serve him well while
on the Game Commission board.
“I’ll look at issues from our hunters’ perspective,” he said. “It’s an honor to be on the
board of an agency with such a proud and storied history. I want to work toward increasing
hunter participation, especially with the Mentored Youth Hunting Program. I have three sons
who participated in the program, and my wife Paula, who hunts, got involved in that program
with my boys as well,” he said.
Fredericks is serving his second term on the board. He served a prior term from 1991 to
1999. He’s the sixth individual to serve a second term as a commissioner. During his prior tenure
on the board, he served as chairman of the Wildlife Management Bureau committee for six years
of his eight-year term.
Fredericks was born and has lived his entire life in Washington County. He’s a lifelong
hunter and trapper, and has hunted all big and small game, but now really enjoys hunting for
ruffed grouse.
Fredericks graduated from Penn State Mont Alto campus in 1972 with a degree in forest
technology. In 1992, he attended Colorado State University for a structured course in wildlife
management designed for individuals who have been politically appointed to a position to affect
management policy for wildlife resources.
Fredericks, now retired, had a 42-year career as an environmental engineer and manager
of conservation properties and activities for CONSOL Energy, where he was responsible for
coordinating natural-resource management on 500,000 acres in several states.
Fredericks is a member of many sportsmen’s organizations and conservation groups,
including the NRA, Ruffed Grouse Society, National Wild Turkey Federation and Ducks
Unlimited, to name a few.
As a commissioner, Fredericks said he relishes the opportunity to once again work with
Game Commission staff to improve the way our wildlife resources are managed.
“First and foremost, the agency needs to be adequately funded, and I will do all I can to
49
get this done,” Fredericks said.
Game Commission Executive Director Bryan Burhans said he welcomes the two new
commissioners.
“I’m glad we now have eight Game Commissioners once again,” Burhans said. “I’m sure
both gentlemen will put their vast experience in the outdoors and with conservation groups to use
for the benefit of sportsmen and women, and all Commonwealth citizens.”
Foradora and Fredericks were appointed June 5. Each will serve four-year terms.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Game
Commission website.
Environmental NewsClips - All Topics
Here are NewsClips from around the state on all environmental topics, including General
Environment, Budget, Marcellus Shale, Watershed Protection and much more.
The latest environmental NewsClips and news is available at the PA Environment Digest Daily
Blog, Twitter Feed and add PaEnviroDigest Google+ to your Circle.
Air
DEP Issues Air Quality Advisory For Saturday In Southwest
Code Orange Air Quality Alert Issued For Central PA Counties
Heat, Sun Mean Poor Air Quality Saturday In York
Alternative Fuels
Awards & Recognition
Beautification
Biodiversity/Invasive Species
Spotted Lanternfly Invading Northeast
Costello, Maloney Receive Spotted Lanternfly From USDA
Budget
Hayes: With No Action By General Assembly, Fish & Boat Commission To Close 3 Fish
Hatcheries
AP-Levy: Early Budget Deal May Be Milestone For Deficits, School Aid
Murphy: What Will PA’s $32.7 Billion Budget Buy?
50
Chesapeake Bay
Report: Chesapeake Bay Health Greatly Improved (Video)
Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here to subscribe to the free Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here to support the Chesapeake Bay Journal
Follow Chesapeake Bay Journal On Twitter
Like Chesapeake Bay Journal On Facebook
Climate
Crable: Study: Climate Change Could Threaten Dairy Industry In Lancaster
Cusick: Study: Climate Change Will Stress Corn Production, Dairy Industry In PA
Phillips: 30 Years Of Data Show How Much U.S. Has Warmed, Race Is On To Adapt
EPA Wades Into FERC Pipeline Debate, Offering Greenhouse Gas Assessment Tools
Coal Mining
Festival In Luzerne County Honors Coal Miners
Compliance Action
Lebanon Watershed Groups Seek $2.9 Million In Mariner East 2 Pipeline Penalty Grants
Delaware River
Drinking Water
Economic Development
Industry Touts Marcellus Advantage In Wyoming County
Education
51
Energy
Energy Conservation
Wave
Environmental Heritage
Grim Memories: Agnes Cleanup Included Corpse Recovery In Wyoming Valley
Festival In Luzerne County Honors Coal Miners
Farming
Crable: Study: Climate Change Could Threaten Dairy Industry In Lancaster
Cusick: Study: Climate Change Will Stress Corn Production, Dairy Industry In PA
Dairy Industry Needs Fixes On Many Fronts
Flooding/Storms
Allegheny County Issues Countywide Disaster To Help With Flood Cleanup
Engineer Volunteers Trained To Spot Levee Problems During River Flooding In Wyoming
Valley
Officials: Tornado Touches Down In Westmoreland County
Westmoreland, Butler, Allegheny Counties Lead PA In Most Tornadoes
Editorial: Cooperation On Tornado Cleanup Praiseworthy
Grim Memories: Agnes Cleanup Included Corpse Recovery In Wyoming Valley
Forests
DCNR Names New District Forester For Buchanan State Forest
Geologic Hazards
Landslide Closes Inbound Lane Of Saw Mill Run In Overbrook
AP: Landslide Topples Pittsburgh Telephone Poles, Utility Lines
52
Rt. 30 Near Pittsburgh Collapsed By Landslide Reopens
Green Infrastructure
Hazardous Sites
EPA Meeting On Horsham, Bucks County Water Contamination July 25
Land Conservation
Thompson: Cumberland Valley Schools Withdraw Bid To Condemn Conserved Farm
New Law Could Derail Midstate School District’s Eminent Domain Plans
Thompson: Bill Would Require Court Approval To Take Conserved Land
How The Fight To Save Stoneleigh Brought Zombie Pols Back To Life, Too
Stoneleigh Garden May Be Saved From Lower Merion School District By New Law
Land Recycling
Mine Reclamation
Oil & Gas
Editorial: Lawmakers In Harrisburg “No Threat” To Natural Gas Industry
Salty Situation: Using Brine On Roads For Dust Suppression
DEP And Brine Producers Working On New Rules
What Brine Is And What It Is Not
Industry Touts Marcellus Advantage In Wyoming County
Book: Amity & Prosperity: Fracking, Profit And Human Costs In Western PA
EQT, CNX Sell Off More Assets To Focus On PA Shale Gas
Crews Work To Contain, Clean Up Crude From Oil Train Derailment In Iowa
Pipelines
Hurdle: DRBC Rejects Call To Pull Mariner East 2 Pipeline Permit
Hurdle: Sunoco Pipeline Leaked Gasoline Into Delaware County Creek
Hurdle: Another Mariner East 2 Pipeline Construction Spill In Lebanon County
Delaware County Makes Slow Progress Debating Mariner East 2 Pipeline Study
DEP Finds Deficiencies In Shell Pipeline Permit Application
53
EPA Wades Into FERC Pipeline Debate, Offering Greenhouse Gas Assessment Tools
Radiation Protection
Recreation
Recycling/Waste
Renewable Energy
Residents Want Sun To Shine Energy On Greencastle-Antrim
Stormwater
Susquehanna River
York County
Wastewater Facilities
Allentown Could Save $12-14 Million With Revised Plan For Sewage Overflows
Alligator Caught At Clearfield County Wastewater Plant
54
Watershed Protection
Report: Chesapeake Bay Health Greatly Improved (Video)
O’Neill: A Pittsburgh Lake, Fetid No More, Thanks To Neighborly Love
Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here to subscribe to the Chesapeake Bay Journal
Follow Chesapeake Bay Journal On Twitter
Like Chesapeake Bay Journal On Facebook
Wildlife
Hayes: With No Action By General Assembly, Fish & Boat Commission To Close 3 Fish
Hatcheries
Frye: Debating Catch/Release Fishing Rules For Wild Trout Streams
July 4 Marks PA’s Second Fish-For-Free Day
Mentored Youth Fishing Offered This Summer In Pittsburgh, Philadelphia
Boaters: Don’t Let Boating Under The Influence Sink A Good Time
Putting Nature In A Box At The Brandywine Museum
Saving The Frog-- With A Paintbrush
Schneck: Chronic Wasting Disease Cases Triple In Last Year
Game Commission: Deadly Deer Disease Cases On The Rise
Game Commission: Fawn Study Documents Stable Survival Rates
Frye: Hungarian Partridges May Return To PA’s Hunting Scene
Butterflies, Wildflowers Abound Across Erie Region
West Nile/Zika Virus
Other
Fmr Beaver County Resident Larry Schweiger Leads Life Of Conservation
Company Sues Easton For $7.2 Million Over Digital Billboard Ban
Wildfires
Drought-Stricken West Braces As Wildfire Season Flares Up
Federal Policy
Pruitt Seeks To Limit EPA’s Own Authority To Block Water Pollution Permits
Hurdle: Cong. Fitzpatrick: Pruitt Should Quit After Trying To Block PFAS Study
Trump’s Supreme Court Candidates Leave Environmental Paper Trail
55
Click Here For This Week's Allegheny Front Radio Program
Public Participation Opportunities/Calendar Of Events
This section lists House and Senate Committee meetings, DEP and other public hearings and
meetings and other interesting environmental events.
NEW means new from last week. [Agenda Not Posted] means not posted within 2 weeks
of the advisory committee meeting. Go to the online Calendar webpage for updates.
Note: DEP published the 2018 meeting schedules for its advisory committees and boards.
June 29-30-- NEW. Upper Delaware BioBlitz. Gales Property, PA Rt. 191, Starlight, Wayne
County.
June 30-- PA Resources Council. Hard-To-Recycle Collection Event. Quaker Valley High
School, Leetsdale, Allegheny County. 9:00 to 1:00.
June 30-- PA National Guard Regal Fritillary Butterfly Tours. Fort Indiantown Gap, Lebanon
County.
July 3-- NEW. DCNR Webinar On Multifunctional Riparian Forest Buffer Grants. 10:00 to
11:00.
July 3-- NEW. DCNR Webinar on ATV/Snowmobile Grants. 11:00 to Noon.
July 6-- PA National Guard Regal Fritillary Butterfly Tours. Fort Indiantown Gap, Lebanon
County.
July 7-- Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring. Mountain Watershed Association. Volunteer
Training For Shale Gas-Related Stream Monitoring. Blythedale Volunteer Fire Department,
1799 Blythedale Road, Buena Vista, Allegheny County. 9:00 to 3:30.
July 7-- PA National Guard Regal Fritillary Butterfly Tours. Fort Indiantown Gap, Lebanon
County.
July 9-- NEW. Senate Republican Policy Committee holds hearing on Clean Fill, Abandoned
Quarries in Northampton County. Wind Gap Middle School, 1620 Teels Road, Pen Argyl.
10:00.
July 10-- NEW. West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition Meeting & Picnic. Bald Eagle
State Park, Pavilion #5, Centre County. 5:30.
July 11-- CANCELED. DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting. Next scheduled
meeting is September 19. DEP Contact: Diane Wilson, 717-787-3730, diawilson@pa.gov.
(formal notice)
56
July 11-- DEP Technical Advisory Committee On Diesel Powered (Mining) Equipment. DEP
New Stanton Office, 131 Broadview Road, New Stanton. 10:00. DEP Contact: Peggy Scheloski,
724-404-3143 or mscheloske@pa.gov.
July 11-- DEP Hearing On Interim Response At Ridge Run PFAS, PFOS, PFOA Well
Contamination Site In Bucks County. West Rockhill Township Building, 1028 Ridge Road,
Sellersville, PA. 6:30.
July 12-- NEW. PennVEST, DEP Public Meeting On Proposed FY 2018 Clean Water, Drinking
Water intended Use Plans. 2nd Floor Auditorium, Rachel Carson Building, 400 Market Street,
Harrisburg. 2:00.
July 12-- PUC En Banc Hearing On Supplier Consolidated Billing By Electricity Suppliers.
Hearing Room 1, Keystone Building, 400 North Street, Harrisburg. 1:00.
July 16-- DEP Hearing On State Air Quality Implementation Plan Changes For Meeting Ozone
Standard, New Source Review. DEP Southwest Regional Office, 400 Waterfront Drive,
Pittsburgh. 1:00.
July 16- DEP Hearing On State Air Quality Implementation Plan Changes For Meeting Ozone
Standard, New Source Review. DEP Southeast Regional Office, 2 East Main Street, Norristown.
1:00.
July 16-- DEP Hearing On State Air Quality Implementation Plan Changes For Meeting Ozone
Standard, New Source Review. 12th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building,
Harrisburg. 1:00.
July 17-- CANCELED. Environmental Quality Board meeting. The next scheduled meeting is
August 21. DEP Contact: Laura Edinger, 717-772-3277, ledinger@pa.gov. (formal notice)
July 17-- DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.
DEP Contact: Neil Bakshi, DEP Policy Office, nebakshi@pa.gov.
July 17-- DEP Hearing [If Needed] On RACT II Air Quality Plan For Sonneborn Petrolia
Facility In Butler County. DEP Northwest Regional Office, 230 Chestnut Street, Meadville,
Crawford County. 9:00 a.m.
July 17-- DEP Hearing On NPDES Water Quality Permit For Fmr Embreeville State Hospital
Grounds STP. Marshallton united Methodist Church, 1282 W. Strasburg Road, West Chester,
Chester County. 6:00.
July 18-- Penn State Extension. Public Meeting On Spotted Lanternfly. Schuylkill County
Agricultural Center, 1202 Ag Center Drive, Pottsville. 6:30.
57
July 19-- DEP Mining and Reclamation Advisory Board meeting. New Stanton District Mining
Office, 131 Broadview Road, New Stanton. 9:00. DEP Contact: Daniel Snowden,
717-787-5103, dsnowden@pa.gov. (formal notice)
July 19-- DEP Hearing On Interim Response At Nockamixon TCE Well Contamination Site In
Bucks County. Nockamixon Township Municipal Building, 589 Lake Warren Road, Upper
Black Eddy, PA. 7:00
July 25-- DEP Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee meeting. 12th Floor
Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Nancy Herb, 717-783-9269 or
nherb@pa.gov. (formal notice)
July 25-27-- Registration Open. Professional Recyclers of PA. 28th Annual Recycling &
Organics Conference. Best Western Premier Hotel, Harrisburg.
July 26-- NEW. Penn State Extension. Introduction To Electric Markets and Procurement
Strategies Webinar. 1:00 to 2:00.
July 27-29-- Keystone Trails Association. Prowl The Sproul Weekend. Sproul State Forest,
Clinton County.
July 28-- PA Resources Council. Recycling Bin Distribution Event In Pittsburgh. Point Breeze
Distribution Event, URA’s Parking Lot on Meade Street. 8:00 to 2:00. Click Here to register.
July 28-- Audubon Society of Western PA. Backyard Habitat Gardening for Pollinators and
Butterflies Workshop. Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, 614 Dorseyville Road, Pittsburgh.
10:00.
August 1-- DEP Cleanup Standards Scientific Advisory Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel
Carson Building. 9:00. DEP Contact: Michael Maddigan, 717-772-3609, mmaddigan@pa.gov.
August 8-- DEP Oil and Gas Technical Advisory Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Todd Wallace, 717-783-9438, twallace@pa.gov.
August 8-- DEP Aggregate Advisory Board meeting. Pennsy Supply, Thomasville Quarry
Office, 55 South Biesecker Road, Thomasville, York County. 10:00. DEP Contact: Daniel
Snowden, 717-787-5103, dsnowden@pa.gov. (formal notice)
August 11-- PA Resources Council. Recycling Bin Distribution Event In Pittsburgh. Fairywood
Distribution Event, B Keppel Trucking, 100 Beechnut Drive, Pittsburgh. 8:00 to 2:00. Click Here
to register.
August 15-- DEP State Board for Certification of Sewage Enforcement Officers meeting. 11th
Floor, Conference Room B, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Kristen
Szwajkowski, 717-772-2186, kszwajkows@pa.gov.
58
August 15-- DEP State Board For Certification of Water and Wastewater Systems Operators
meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Edgar
Chescattie, 717-772-2814, eshescattie@pa.gov.
August 16-- DEP Agricultural Advisory Board meeting. Ag Progress Days, 2710 West Pine
Grove Road, Furnace, Huntingdon County. 10:30. DEP Contact: Jay Braund, 717-772-5636,
jbraund@pa.gov. (formal notice)
August 20-23-- U.S. Biochar Initiatives Conference. Chase Center on the Riverfront,
Wilmington, Delaware.
August 21-- Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00.
DEP Contact: Laura Edinger, 717-772-3277, ledinger@pa.gov.
August 25-- PA Resources Council. Hard-To-Recycle Collection Event. Century III Mall, West
Mifflin, Allegheny County. 9:00 to 1:00.
August 28-- DEP Climate Change Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: John Krueger, 717-783-9264, jkrueger@pa.gov.
September 4-- NEW. DEP Storage Tank Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel
Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Kris Shiffer 717-772-5809 or send email to:
kshiffer@pa.gov.
September 4-- DEP Board Of Coal Mine Safety meeting. DEP Cambria Office, 286 Industrial
Park Road, Ebensburg. 10:00. DEP Contact: Peggy Scheloske 724-404-3143 or send email to:
mscheloske@pa.gov.
September 6-9-- Registration Open. Delaware Highlands Conservancy. Educational Retreat For
Women Forest Landowners. Highlights Workshop Facility in Boyd’s Mill, Milanville, Wayne
County.
September 18-- NEW. Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 9:00. DEP Contact: Laura Edinger, 717-772-3277, ledinger@pa.gov. (formal notice)
September 18-- NEW. DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Neil Bakshi, DEP Policy Office, nebakshi@pa.gov.
September 18-20-- Mid-Atlantic Chapter International Erosion Control Association. 25th

Annual Conference, Workshop and Trade Show. Radisson Hotel, Camp Hill, Cumberland
County.
September 19- DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 9:30. DEP Contact: Diane Wilson, 717-787-3730, diawilson@pa.gov. (formal
59
notice)
September 20-- DEP Solid Waste Advisory Committee & Recycling Funding Advisory
Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Laura Henry
717-772-5713 or send email to: lahenry@pa.gov.
September 22-- Joint meeting of DEP Recycling Fund Advisory Committee and Solid Waste
Advisory Committee. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Laura Henry,
717-772-5713, lahenry@pa.gov.
September 23-- Audubon Society of Western PA. Backyard Habitat Trees and Shrubs,
Supporting Wildlife In Winter Workshop. Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, 614 Dorseyville
Road, Pittsburgh. 10:00.
September 25-26-- NEW. Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed. 2018 Delaware River
Watershed Forum. Cape May, NJ.
September 28-- DEP Low-Level Waste Advisory Committee meeting Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Rich Janati, 717-787-2147, rjanati@pa.gov.
October 1-3-- Engineers’ Society of Western PA. PA Brownfield Conference. Sands Bethlehem
Casino, Bethlehem.
October 6-- PA Resources Council. Hard-To-Recycle Collection Event. Settlers Cabin Park,
Robinson Township, Allegheny County. 9:00 to 1:00.
October 10-- NEW. DEP Technical Advisory Committee On Diesel Powered (Mining)
Equipment. DEP New Stanton Office, 131 Broadview Road, New Stanton. 10:00. DEP Contact:
Peggy Scheloski, 724-404-3143 or mscheloske@pa.gov.
October 17-21-- Passive House Western PA. North American Passive House Network 2018
Conference. David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh.
October 18-- DEP Radiation Protection Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel
Carson. 9:00. DEP Contact: Joseph Melnic 717-783-9730 or send email to: jmelnic@pa.gov.
November 1-2-- PA Water And Wastewater Technology Summit. Penn Stater Conference
Center Hotel, State College.
Related Tools ----------------
Visit DEP’s Public Participation Center for public participation opportunities.
Click Here for links to DEP’s Advisory Committee webpages.
60
Visit DEP Connects for opportunities to interact with DEP staff at field offices.
Click Here to sign up for DEP News a biweekly newsletter from the Department.
DEP Facebook Page DEP Twitter Feed DEP YouTube Channel
DEP Calendar of Events DCNR Calendar of Events
Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule
You can watch the Senate Floor Session and House Floor Session live online.
Grants & Awards
This section gives you a heads up on upcoming deadlines for awards and grants and other
recognition programs. NEW means new from last week.
July 6-- PA Water Trails Partnership Mini Grants

July 6-- DEP Clean Diesel Grants (VW Settlement)
Check-- DEP Expands Small Business Advantage Grants To Farm Conservation Projects
July 13-- DEP Growing Greener Plus Watershed Grants
July 13-- DEP Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants
July 18-- Northeast Environmental Partner Environmental Awards
July 20-- CFA Alternative & Clean Energy Funding
July 20-- CFA Renewable Energy-Geothermal & Wind Funding
July 20-- CFA Solar Energy Funding
July 20-- CFA High Performance Building Funding
July 31-- Keep PA Beautiful Fresh Paint Days Grants
July 31-- Fish & Boat Commission Boating Infrastructure Grants
August 1-- Delaware River Basin Commission Summer Photo Contest
August 15-- PA Leopold Farm Conservation Award $10,000
August 17-- NEW. PA Lake Management Society Mini-Grants
August 31-- OSMRE Not-For-Profit Acid Mine Drainage Watershed Grants
August 31-- Partnership For Delaware Estuary Schuylkill Shots Photo Contest
September 5-- PA Parks & Forests Foundation Photo Contest
September 15-- CFA Alternative & Clean Energy Funding
September 15-- CFA Renewable Energy-Geothermal & Wind Funding
September 15-- CFA Solar Energy Funding
September 15-- CFA High Performance Building Funding
September 28-- NEW. DCNR Multifunctional Riparian Forest Buffer Grants
September 28-- DEP Calendar 2017 Recycling Performance Grants
September 29-- NEW. Sinnemahoning Watershed Restoration Grants
September 30-- Fish & Boat Commission Clean Vessel Act Grants
October 31-- PA Resources Council Gene Capaldi Lens On Litter Photo Contest
December 14-- DEP Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants
61
December 31-- DEP County Act 101 Waste Planning, HHW, Education Grants
-- Visit the DEP Grant, Loan and Rebate Programs webpage for more ideas on how to get
financial assistance for environmental projects.
-- Visit the DCNR Apply for Grants webpage for a listing of financial assistance available from
DCNR.
Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits
Here are highlights of actions taken by agencies on environmental regulations, technical

guidance and permits.
Regulations -----------------------
No new regulations were published this week. Pennsylvania Bulletin - June 30, 2018
Technical Guidance -------------------
The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the June 30 PA Bulletin

rescinding the Oil and gas Management Program Administrative Policy and Procedure Manual
(DEP ID: 550-2000-001). Questions should be directed to Kurt Klapkowski by sending email to:
kklapkowski@pa.gov or 717-783-9893.
Permits ------------
Note: The Department of Environmental Protection published 44 pages of public notices related
to proposed and final permit and approval/ disapproval actions in the June 30 PA Bulletin - pages
3854 to 3898.
Related Tools ----------------------
Sign Up For DEP’s eNotice: Did you know DEP can send you email notices of permit
applications submitted in your community? Notice of new technical guidance documents and
regulations? All through its eNotice system. Click Here to sign up.
Visit DEP’s Public Participation Center for public participation opportunities.
DEP Proposals Out For Public Review

Other Proposals Open For Public Comment - DEP webpage
Submit Comments on Proposals Through DEP’s eComment System
Recently Closed Comment Periods For Other Proposals - DEP webpage
Other Proposals Recently Finalized - DEP webpage
62
DEP Regulations In Process
Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage
Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage
Recently Finalized Regulations - DEP webpage
DEP Regulatory Update - DEP webpage
March 3, 2018 DEP Regulatory Agenda - PA Bulletin, Page 1374
DEP Technical Guidance In Process

Draft Technical Guidance Documents - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines - DEP webpage
Recently Closed Comment Periods For Technical Guidance - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance Recently Finalized - DEP webpage
Copies of Final Technical Guidance - DEP webpage
DEP Non-Regulatory/Technical Guidance Documents Agenda (February 2018) - DEP webpage
CLICK HERE To View Or Print Entire PA Environment Digest
CLICK HERE to View or Print the entire PA Environment Digest. This Digest is 64 pages long.
Stories Invited
Send your stories, photos and links to videos about your project, environmental issues or
programs for publication in the PA Environment Digest to: PaEnviroDigest@gmail.com.
About PA Environment Digest
PA Environment Digest is edited by David E. Hess, former Secretary Pennsylvania Department

of Environmental Protection. He can be contacted by sending email to:
PaEnviroDigest@gmail.com.
Did you know you can search back issues of PA Environment Digest since May 28, 2004 on
dozens of topics, by county and on any keyword you choose? Just click on the search page.
PA Environment Digest weekly was the winner of the PA Association of Environmental

Educators' 2009 Business Partner of the Year Award.
Also take advantage of these related publications--
PA Environment Digest Twitter Feed: On Twitter, sign up to receive instant news updates.
Add PaEnviroDigest To Your Google+ Circle: Google+ now combines all the news you now get
through the PA Environment Digest, Weekly, Blog and Twitter sites into one resource.
63
PA Environment Daily Blog: provides daily environmental NewsClips and significant stories
and announcements on environmental topics in Pennsylvania of immediate value. Sign up and
receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a
once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. Add your constructive comment
to any blog posting.
PA Capitol Digest Daily Blog to get updates every day on Pennsylvania State Government,
including NewsClips, coverage of key press conferences and more. Sign up and receive as they
are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once daily
email alerting you to new items posted on this blog.
PA Capitol Digest Twitter Feed: Don't forget to sign up to receive the PA Capitol Digest
Twitter feed to get instant updates on other news from in and around the Pennsylvania State
Capitol.
Supporting Member PA Outdoor Writers Assn./PA Trout Unlimited
PA Environment Digest is a supporting member of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers

Association, Pennsylvania Council Trout Unlimited and the Doc Fritchey Chapter Trout
Unlimited.
64

Pa Environment Digest July 2, 2018

Hochgeladen von

Dokumentinformationen

Copyright

Verfügbare Formate

Dieses Dokument teilen

Dokument teilen oder einbetten

Freigabeoptionen

Stufen Sie dieses Dokument als nützlich ein?

Sind diese Inhalte unangemessen?

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

Pa Environment Digest July 2, 2018

Hochgeladen von

Copyright:

Verfügbare Formate

Issue #731 Harrisburg, PA July 2, 2018

PA Environment Digest Blog​ ​Twitter Feed​ ​PaEnviroDigest Google+

Click Here to View or Print This Entire Digest

The Department of Environmental Protection will

DCNR will hold a webinar on July 3 on ​Multifunctional

PA Lake Management Society Offers Mini-Grants To Reduce Nutrient Loading, Address

The ​PA Lake Management Society​, with funding from the

Grants Available To Improve Sinnemahoning Watershed In Cameron, Elk, McKean,

By Wallace McKelvey, Patriot News, ​WMckelvey@pennlive.com

We take two things for granted every time we turn on a

By Siri Lawson, Farmington Township, Warren

I live in Farmington Township, Warren County,

Videos From Montgomery, Cumberland, Dauphin Counties Voted Favorites In Great

The videos getting the most votes in the Great

The Department of Environmental Protection and its

The Department of Environmental Protection

Senate/House Bills Moving Last Week

Bills On Governor's Desk

Alternative Ratemaking:​ ​House Bill 1782​ (Delozier-R-Cumberland) authorizing alternative

Littering/Dumping​:​ ​Senate Bill 431​ (Scavello-R-Monroe) authorizes the designation of local

Disposal Of Hospice Medication:​ ​Senate Bill 978​ (Baker-R-Luzerne) disposal of unused

Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule/Gov’s Schedule

Committee Meeting Agendas This Week

Bills Pending In Key Committees

Alternative Utility Ratemaking Bill To Encourage Conservation, Infrastructure Investment

Scavello Bill Cracking Down On Littering, Illegal Dumping Becomes Law

June Environmental Synopsis Now Available From Joint Conservation Committee

The ​June Environmental Synopsis​ is now

News From Around The State

Federal Office Of Surface Mining Provides Nearly $500,000 In Grants To Restore

The Department of the Interior’s Office of Surface

The ​Brodhead Watershed Association​ and

The ​Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority​ Thursday said it

West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition Meets July 10 In Centre County

The ​West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition

The ​Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed​ will

The ​Delaware River Basin Commission

Stroud Water Research Center UpStream News Now Available

The Chester County-based ​Stroud Water Research

On June 20, the national ​Food & Water Watch​ issued

The ​Public Utility Commission​ Friday urged

DEP Blog: Ways To Save Energy, Money This Summer

By Neil Shader, DEP Press Secretary

Summertime living can be easy, but that hot sun and

Penn State Extension​ will host an ​Introduction to Electric

PUC Hosts First-Ever Exercise On A Large-Scale Natural Gas Distribution Emergency

Nova Bus​ Tuesday announced that it passed the

Opportunity To Bid On DEP Underground Tank Cleanup At Capital Bus Company In

The Department of Environmental Protection ​published notice​ in the June 30 PA Bulletin of an

Upper Delaware BioBlitz June 29-30 In Starlight, Wayne County

The ​Upper Delaware BioBlitz​ on June 29-30 is a biannual

Carly Naundorff, Ali Brand Winners Of Delaware Highlands Conservancy Scholarships

The ​Delaware Highlands Conservancy​ Wednesday

Have you ever wanted to try whitewater rafting but

The ​Brodhead Watershed Association​ will host another in

DCNR ATV/Snowmobile Grants Webinar July 3

DCNR will host a webinar on July 3 on ​ATV/

June 27 Resource Newsletter Now Available From DCNR

The ​June 27 edition of the Resource​ newsletter is now

PEC: Newsletter From Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Now Available

The latest edition of the ​Laurel Highlands

Gifford Pinchot’s Grey Towers National Historic

Join Western PA Audubon's Backyard Habitat Certification Program

Your backyard is your sanctuary and the

PA Environment Digest Blog Twitter Feed PaEnviroDigest Google+

DCNR will hold a webinar on July 3 on Multifunctional

The PA Lake Management Society, with funding from the

By Wallace McKelvey, Patriot News, WMckelvey@pennlive.com

Alternative Ratemaking: House Bill 1782 (Delozier-R-Cumberland) authorizing alternative

Littering/Dumping: Senate Bill 431 (Scavello-R-Monroe) authorizes the designation of local

Disposal Of Hospice Medication: Senate Bill 978 (Baker-R-Luzerne) disposal of unused

The June Environmental Synopsis is now

The Brodhead Watershed Association and

The Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority Thursday said it

The West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition

The Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed will

The Delaware River Basin Commission

The Chester County-based Stroud Water Research

On June 20, the national Food & Water Watch issued

The Public Utility Commission Friday urged

Penn State Extension will host an Introduction to Electric

Nova Bus Tuesday announced that it passed the

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the June 30 PA Bulletin of an

The Upper Delaware BioBlitz on June 29-30 is a biannual

The Delaware Highlands Conservancy Wednesday

The Brodhead Watershed Association will host another in

DCNR will host a webinar on July 3 on ATV/

The June 27 edition of the Resource newsletter is now

The latest edition of the Laurel Highlands

The Governor’s Advisory Council for Hunting, Fishing and

Two vacancies on the Board of Game Commissioners were filled

July 3-- NEW. DCNR Webinar on ATV/Snowmobile Grants. 11:00 to Noon.

September 18-20-- Mid-Atlantic Chapter International Erosion Control Association. 25th

Visit DEP’s Public Participation Center for public participation opportunities.

Click Here for links to DEP’s Advisory Committee webpages.

DEP Facebook Page DEP Twitter Feed DEP YouTube Channel

DEP Calendar of Events DCNR Calendar of Events

Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule

July 6-- PA Water Trails Partnership Mini Grants

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the June 30 PA Bulletin

Visit DEP’s Public Participation Center for public participation opportunities.

PA Environment Digest is edited by David E. Hess, former Secretary Pennsylvania Department

PA Environment Digest weekly was the winner of the PA Association of Environmental

PA Environment Digest is a supporting member of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers