Beruflich Dokumente
Kultur Dokumente
10, 2018
1
minimize buffers protection at the local and state government level are-- we should be increasing
protections not reducing them.”
With 17 million people relying on the Delaware River watershed for drinking water, it is
important to protect and implement riparian buffers.
The report notes, “Almost half of the Basin’s historic riparian cover has been lost to
agriculture, shopping malls, housing developments, and highways.”
The report highlights how investing in watershed protections can save money. For
example, New York City invests $1.5 billion into watershed protection, thereby eliminating the
costs associated with a water filtration plant, which could cost as much as $8 billion initially with
an additional $300 million per year to operate.
Protecting buffers benefits both the environment as well as the economy, and failure to
do so could result in the loss of millions of dollars.
The report states, “Without more effective protection for riparian buffers, we estimate an
annualized loss of approximately $981 thousand to $2.5 million in the value of monetized
ecosystem services.”
Click Here for a copy of the report. Click Here for and overview of the multiple benefits
of green infrastructure-- Invest $1 Get Three, Four, Five Benefits.
Sept. 13 Webinar
A webinar about this study will be held on September 13 starting at 7:00 p.m. Click Here
to sign up for the webinar.
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LancasterOnline: Lancaster Farmland Provides $676M In Annual Environmental Benefits
Estimated $939.2 Million Return On Investment In Protecting, Restoring Dauphin County’s
Natural Resources
Carbon County Has $800 Million Return On Investment From Natural Resources
Emma Creek Restoration Project Reduced Flood Damage, Sediment & Nutrient Pollution In
Huntingdon County
Another Green Infrastructure Project Reduces Flooding In Manheim, Lancaster County
Green Infrastructure Offers Triple Benefits, Cost Effective Solutions To Stormwater Pollution,
Reducing Flood Damage
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Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
Chesapeake Bay Program Releases Best Management Practice Guide
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Lancaster County Graziers Group To Host Founder Of Savory Institute Sept. 19
Renovated City Of Harrisburg Playgrounds Become Green Infrastructure To Address
Recreation, Stormwater Pollution, Flood Reduction Needs
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster County
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
2
Environmental Education Program
Sun-Gazette: Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Pike Conservation District: Proactive Stormwater Management
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State Amphibian
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 5, 2018]
Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
3
Conowingo Dam on July 26, according to the U.S. Geological Survey.
Exelon, the dam’s owner, opened 22 floodgates, triggering voluntary evacuation orders
for the Cecil County town of Port Deposit, about 6 miles downstream of the dam.
The August storm boosted flows to 211,000 cubic feet per second and prompted another
round of floodgate opening.
That peak came the day that Gurbisz and her fellow scientists were taking sediment and
grass samples within view of the Thomas J. Hatem Memorial Bridge, which spans the
Susquehanna in Maryland just upstream from its confluence with the Bay.
The water was tinged the color of chocolate milk and either dotted or smeared, depending
on the spot, with tree trunks and branches.
Sediment, Not Debris Affects Bay
“It’s spectacular with all this debris, but what actually affects the Bay is the suspended
sediment,” said Cindy Palinkas, a University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science
researcher also working on the study.
Since the spring, the researchers have been examining small patches of underwater grass
near the mouth of the Susquehanna. The team recently received additional funding from
Maryland Sea Grant to study how the grass responded to the rainfall in one of the largest patches
of them all: the Susquehanna Flats.
They plan to compare their findings with measurements they took of the Flats during a
separate study in 2014–15, which were comparatively dry years.
Grass beds in the Flats trap some of the sediment and nutrients as they flow out of the
Susquehanna, Palinkas said, helping to improve water quality in the area.
Those beds were wiped out after Tropical Storm Agnes-- the largest storm on record-- hit
in 1972. They have since bounced back to cover more than 9,000 acres of Bay bottom, making
the Flats one of the largest underwater beds in the Bay.
The grasses could use some dry weather this fall to recover, Palinkas said. The murky
water can block the sunlight, causing the plants to die off. The sediment particles can also settle
on the leaves themselves, spreading more shade.
The grass beds appear to be able to weather a heavy pulse of water now and then, but not
repeatedly, Palinkas said.
“You can withstand the occasional cold,” she said. “You can’t withstand 20 colds in a
row.”
Storm Size Not Unusual
The size of the storm was not particularly unusual.
River flows of 375,000 cubic feet per second at Conowingo would be expected about
every four years on average, said Joel Bloomquist, a USGS hydrologist. This was the first time
flow had approached the level since 2011, when a deluge from Tropical Storm Lee led to slugs
that were twice a high.
But the timing of the rain events — during typically dry midsummer months — is
unusual.
Very high stream flows are usually associated with spring rains and snowmelt as well as
tropical storms and hurricanes that strike in late summer or fall. (But Agnes, the most severe
storm on record, hit in June 1972.)
High flows in the summer can be more damaging than at other times because it’s the peak
of biological activity for many important Bay species, from underwater grass beds to juvenile
4
fish and crabs.
The July rainfall was especially heavy in a band extending north and south along
Maryland’s Western Shore into southern Pennsylvania. Storms dumped at least 10 inches of rain
in the area, with one spot in Baltimore County receiving as much as 15 inches, according to the
National Weather Service.
BWI Marshall Airport got inundated with nearly 11.2 inches of rain. Norfolk, at the base
of the Bay, received slightly more than 4 inches. Dulles Airport and the District of Columbia’s
Northern Virginia suburbs got hit with 5 inches of rain on July 21 alone, fueling a total of 7.7
inches over those five soggy days.
Bright Spot
One bright spot with the influx of water is that it flushed out to sea much of the water that
was in the Bay, including the deeper portions that had grown inhospitable to life, Myers said.
In June, scientists predicted that a larger than average “dead zone” would spread across
the bottom of the Bay this summer. They based their forecast on heavy spring rains, which sent
nutrients streaming down the Susquehanna and Potomac rivers. The nutrients feed algae blooms,
which, in the process of sinking and dying, deplete the water of oxygen.
By late July, though, Maryland’s Department of Natural Resources was recording the
best oxygen conditions it had ever found for that time of year in the Bay. The recent rain and
wind had churned up the water so much that the only oxygen-starved areas were restricted to
depths of 65 feet or deeper.
But all of the freshwater pushed into the Bay could be bad news for some species, such as
oysters, which like higher salinities.
In Virginia, oysters beds were already dying in the James River and other tributaries, said
Ryan Carnegie, a researcher with the Virginia Institute of Marine Science.
Salinity readings at the mouth of the York River plummeted to 10 parts per thousand,
about half of the normal value, according to VIMS. Researchers found that the unusually fresh
water was all but devoid of potentially harmful algal species in the wake of the July rains.
Young striped bass were venturing farther downstream than normal, taking advantage of
the saltwater’s retreat.
Unclear How Plant, Animal Life Will Respond
It’s unclear how the Bay’s plant and animal life will respond over the long term to the
lashing from sediment and nutrients, Carnegie said.
“Estuaries are inherently variable environments,” he said, “but extreme events can be
beyond what many inhabitants can manage. The 1972 Agnes event is a classic illustration. We
will just have to wait and see how detrimental this year’s event was to key resource species.”
Although rivers throughout the region were choked with debris, some pointed a finger at
the Conowingo Dam, which is up for relicensing.
They want Exelon to do more to control nutrients, sediment and debris being pushed
downstream of the dam. Maryland, as part of the condition for the new license, is pressing to
spend up to $172 million a year to control nutrient and sediment pollution and to more frequently
clean debris that builds up behind the 94-foot-high structure.
“None of that pollution would be building up and causing a danger or hazard but for the
dam,” said Betsy Nicholas, executive director of Waterkeepers Chesapeake, which has pressed
the state to go even further. She added that climate change is expected to make severe storms
more frequent.
5
Exelon has said it is not responsible for pollution originating upstream that flows past the
dam, and that the state’s proposal would cost more than it makes from the hydroelectric facility.
It has challenged Maryland’s requirements in court.
Back on the Upper Bay, the UMCES boat carrying Palinkas kept making unscheduled
stops because the motor was getting choked with grass growing in the Flats. The pattern repeated
itself more than a half-dozen times: remove, go, sputter.
But she was optimistic the Bay would bounce back. “It looks really dramatic now with all
the sediment and the water. But you give it time, I think it will recover.”
Karl Blankenship contributed to this report.
hoto: C
(P assie Gurbisz, St. Mary’s College Coastal Ecosystem Ecologist.)
NewsClips:
Washed Away? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay Restoration Gains
Dickinson Environmental Science Major Helps Restore Oyster Population In Chesapeake Bay
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
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Agriculture, Forestry Workgroups Present Key Recommendations To Meet PA’s Chesapeake
Bay Pollution Reduction Obligations
Bay Journal: Exelon, Maryland Come To Legal Blows Over Conowingo Dam Cleanup
Requirements
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Lancaster County Graziers Group To Host Founder Of Savory Institute Sept. 19
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PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State Amphibian
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
6
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 4, 2018]
7
funding for farmer technical assistance.
This BMP guide not only gives basic information about each of the Chesapeake Bay
Program-approved BMPs, but also explains how the six Bay states—Delaware, Maryland, New
York, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia-- and the District of Columbia can receive credit
for them in the Bay Program’s Watershed Model.
The six states and D.C. can receive credit toward meeting their pollution reduction goals
under the Chesapeake Bay Total Maximum Daily Load (Bay TMDL) when these BMPs are
implemented, verified and reported for input to the Watershed Model.
Knowing how BMPs are credited in the model is useful for state and local officials
putting together Watershed Implementation Plans (WIPs).
The six states and D.C. develop WIPs, in consultation with local governments, in order to
plan how they will reduce nutrient and sediment pollution in order to meet goals laid out in the
Bay TMDL.
Click Here for a copy of the Quick Reference Guide For BMPs.
For more information and available handouts for the September 10 meeting of the
Steering Committee, visit the PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering Committee
webpage.
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Washed Away? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay Restoration Gains
Dickinson Environmental Science Major Helps Restore Oyster Population In Chesapeake Bay
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
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Agriculture, Forestry Workgroups Present Key Recommendations To Meet PA’s Chesapeake
Bay Pollution Reduction Obligations
PA To Pilot County-Level Chesapeake Bay Clean Water Planning Process In 4 Counties This
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Students Push For House Action To Designate Eastern Hellbender Official Symbol Of Clean
Water; Become A Hellbender Defender!
Renew The State's Commitment To Keeping Pennsylvania Clean, Green And Growing
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Increased Water Purification, Habitat, Property Values, More
Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
Woodland Stewardship Network Connects Neighbors And Forested Landscape In PA
Lancaster County Graziers Group To Host Founder Of Savory Institute Sept. 19
Renovated City Of Harrisburg Playgrounds Become Green Infrastructure To Address
Recreation, Stormwater Pollution, Flood Reduction Needs
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster County
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
8
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
Pike Conservation District: Proactive Stormwater Management
Sun-Gazette: Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State Amphibian
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 4, 2018]
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster
County
9
private sector could be the game changer that is needed.
John Cox, the president of Turkey Hill Dairy, an ice cream distributor founded and
headquartered in Lancaster County, is stepping up.
Cox has been passionate about Lancaster’s waterways for quite some time, and serves as
the chair of the Lancaster Clean Water Partners, an organization that coordinates water quality
restoration work along with many other partners in the county.
After attending an Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay Businesses for the Bay Forum that
urged companies to consider how they could change their operations to improve water quality,
Cox was inspired to think about Turkey Hill’s direct impact.
Knowing that Turkey Hill is Lancaster’s largest dairy distributor, and that dairy has one
of the largest footprints in Lancaster, it became clear that their focus needed to be on their
farmers.
Turkey Hill does not work directly with its farmers, though, and receives its milk from a
dairy cooperative. A dairy cooperative or co-op, is a business comprised of a collective of
farmers that market their milk together.
Timing was on Cox’s side, because Turkey Hill’s reconsideration of its environmental
footprint coincided with the rebidding of its contract with dairy cooperatives.
During their contract negotiations, Cox and his team added requirements that all farmers
providing milk to Turkey Hill would not only have a conservation plan, but would be
implementing the practices written into the plan.
Once all farmers achieved this, Turkey Hill would pay a premium for the higher quality
product.
The Maryland & Virginia Milk Producers Cooperative Association, Inc., which has
members in Lancaster, PA, responded positively to the idea, and was selected as Turkey Hill’s
dairy co-op.
Meanwhile, the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and Turkey Hill had partnered to
receive a Conservation Innovation Grant from the Natural Resource Conservation Service to
support the farmers who could not afford the cost of a plan and subsequent implementation.
Turkey Hill has prioritized helping and supporting their farmers in achieving this goal
together.
This leadership led to the Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership, which includes the
Turkey Hill team working alongside the Maryland & Virginia co-op and the Alliance for the
Chesapeake Bay, and has as its goal providing their farmers with the best support possible.
This partnership hit the ground running in the winter 2017–18, and started with
strategizing how to best inform and support Turkey Hill’s farmers.
Both Maryland Virginia field staff and the Pennsylvania office of the Alliance have met
with all of Turkey Hill’s 130 farmers to explain the new goal and discuss options for assistance.
The goal is for all of the farmers supported by the NRCS grant to have the required
conservation plans in place by winter 2019.
The Alliance is in the process of seeking additional funding and resources to support the
farmers’ implementation of conservation practices on these 130 farms.
The Alliance believes that the most impactful results come from diverse and collaborative
partnerships. We know that by working alongside our partners, we can accomplish much more
than we could alone.
Providing farmers with the technical assistance and resources to establish and implement
10
conservation plans supports them in improving their farm’s functionality while also improving
the health of Lancaster County’s streams, rivers and ecosystems.
The Alliance is thrilled to be involved in this project, which is a holistic partnership
between the public and private sector.
Turkey Hill is leading by example and impacting a systems-level change in how the dairy
industry operates in Lancaster. Their leadership is going to catapult the county forward in
achieving their conservation goals.
When the public and private sectors work together in partnership, our ability to scale up
implementation is tremendously enhanced. Leadership from within the private sector, like
Turkey Hill’s, is the catalyst that Lancaster County, the State of Pennsylvania and the
Chesapeake Bay have been waiting for.
More information is available on programs, initiatives and special events on the Alliance
for the Chesapeake Bay website. Click Here to sign up for regular updates from the Alliance,
Like the Alliance on Facebook, Follow them on Twitter, add them to your Circle on Google+
and visit the Alliance’s YouTube Channel. Click Here to support the Alliance’s work.
Jenna Mitchell is Executive Director of the Alliance For Chesapeake Bay and can be contacted
by sending email to: jmitchell@allianceforthebay.org or call 717-517-8698.
NewsClips:
Washed Away? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay Restoration Gains
Dickinson Environmental Science Major Helps Restore Oyster Population In Chesapeake Bay
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
Related Stories:
New Study: Riparian Buffers Provide Over $10,000/Year/Acre In Reducing Erosion, Flooding,
Increased Water Purification, Habitat, Property Values, More
Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
Chesapeake Bay Program Releases Best Management Practice Guide
Woodland Stewardship Network Connects Neighbors And Forested Landscape In PA
Lancaster County Graziers Group To Host Founder Of Savory Institute Sept. 19
Renovated City Of Harrisburg Playgrounds Become Green Infrastructure To Address
Recreation, Stormwater Pollution, Flood Reduction Needs
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster County
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
Pike Conservation District: Proactive Stormwater Management
Sun-Gazette: Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State Amphibian
How You Can Help
11
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
12
market and keep producing all season long.
Sophisticated technology, including a GPS-guided planter/sprayer and drift-reducing
nozzles, also supports the Forejts’ conservation efforts by ensuring that chemicals aren’t
over-applied and lessening the chance for drift. On pastureland, weeds are controlled by mowing
instead of spraying.
The Forejts have a Natural Resources Conservation Service Grazing Plan, a Conservation
Plan, a Manure Management Plan, and participate in the Conservation Stewardship Program.
Their home farm was the first in the county to be preserved through the Westmoreland County
Agricultural Land Preservation Program.
J. Roy Houston Conservation Partnership Award - Malcolm Sias
In his 40 years of service to parks and recreation, Malcolm Sias has made a lot of
important things happen-- from expanding the acreage, amenities, and activities at Westmoreland
County’s 10 parks, to convincing Greg Phillips, district manager/CEO of the Westmoreland
Conservation District, of the conservation benefits of trails.
It was in the late 1980s when Malcolm first got interested in building trails and, between
his professional tenure with the Westmoreland County Bureau of Parks and Recreation and his
volunteer service to the Regional Trail Corporation, he has since helped to create 43 miles of
these popular walking and biking corridors throughout Westmoreland County.
“When Malcolm first started talking about trails they were a relatively new idea, and
there were only one or two small ones in all of Westmoreland County,” Phillips said. “Yet, he
was so intensely passionate about them that it didn’t take long before he convinced me of their
conservation potential, especially as streamside buffers to protect water quality, since many of
the trail routes were going to parallel the path of streams.”
The District has been a trail partner ever since. In fact, Malcolm and the District have
partnered on every one of the five major trails that have been built in the county.
A recent partnership involved a section of the Westmoreland Heritage Trail in
Murrysville where the slopes were especially steep and badly eroding. The partners successfully
created a solid base for the trail in this challenging spot and, at the same time, significantly
reduced the amount of sediment getting into Turtle Creek.
As Westmoreland County Parks and Recreation director, Malcolm has responsibility for
stewarding upwards of 4,000 county-owned acres of parkland, about 340 of which were added
during his tenure, primarily to make already existing parks larger.
But in the mid-1990s, Malcolm was central to an effort that added an entirely new park to
the county system – a unique park that is 100 percent a conservation measure: the Sewickley
Creek Wetlands.
This 26-acre park near New Stanton is a peaceful place to observe birds and wildflowers.
And it also is a hard-working conservation practice that continuously manages stormwater, filters
pollutants from the water, and helps to prevent flooding downstream.
Malcolm began his college career studying forestry, and so it’s natural that he has been a
major force in promoting healthy forests, including one of the largest wooded tracts in
Westmoreland County-- the 1,275-acre Loyalhanna Gorge.
Malcolm worked with our forester and others to develop a management plan for this very
special county park of second-growth timber and unique plant species.
He also put good stewardship practices in place on wooded portions of historic Hanna’s
Town and Ann Rudd Saxman Nature Park.
13
For 32 years, Malcolm and his staff have been a key partner in the District’s annual
Envirothon, a competition that has helped some 2,400 high school students develop an
appreciation for the natural world.
The J. Roy Houston Partnership Award is sponsored by Peoples Natural Gas Company.
Hall of Honor - Albert Barnett
Al Barnett was a long and loyal friend of the Westmoreland Conservation District,
steadfast in his support of our work and dedicated in Al served for more than 25 years on the
Westmoreland Conservation District board as a volunteer director.
An avid hunter and fisherman, Al represented the sportsmen to the District’s board, a
large segment of the local population with a keen interest in water quality, forest health, and
other areas where conservation plays an important role.
It was a long and beneficial partnership that, among other things, helped the District
reach thousands of people over the years through a conservation display in the sportsmen’s tent
at Westmoreland County Fair.
Al took his service on the District board very seriously, and always made an effort to
attend and participate in meetings, even in later years when his health made that more difficult.
In 22 years of active board service, Al’s attendance rate was more than 90 percent. He
could always be counted on to cast his support at those meetings behind initiatives that advanced
the best interests of the organization.
Al was one of the first to step up and volunteer his help when the District had a special
project, whether it was painting our campus facilities or planting flowers at the courthouse.
And he was there for other community organizations as well, lending his help in various
leadership roles with the Westmoreland County Sportsmen’s League, the state chapter of the
National Wildlife Federation, Westmoreland Cleanways, and the American Red Cross.
Although Al never talked much about all the things that he did for our community, his
briefcase told the story-- it was covered in stickers from his many volunteer activities.
In 2012, when it was becoming more difficult for him to regularly participate in District
activities, the board voted to name Al Director Emeritus so that he could continue to be an
advisor to the board. He was only the second director in the history of the District to receive this
distinction.
Al passed away in March of 2018. He is survived by his wife, Helen, a daughter and son,
five grandchildren, and three great grandchildren.
The Awards Program is scheduled for September 12 with an open-house reception, which
runs from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the District’s location on Donohoe Road in Greensburg
For more information on programs, initiatives, technical and financial assistance
available to landowners, visit the Westmoreland Conservation District website.
(Photo: Gregory, Lesley, Garrett Foreijt; Malcolm Sias (top) and Al Barnett.)
NewsClips:
Windy Heights Farm, Forejt Family Named Westmoreland Conservation Farmer Of The Year
Westmoreland Recreation Director Receives Conservation District Award
Related Stories:
New Study: Riparian Buffers Provide Over $10,000/Year/Acre In Reducing Erosion, Flooding,
Increased Water Purification, Habitat, Property Values, More
Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
14
Chesapeake Bay Program Releases Best Management Practice Guide
Woodland Stewardship Network Connects Neighbors And Forested Landscape In PA
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Sun-Gazette: Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Pike Conservation District: Proactive Stormwater Management
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State Amphibian
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 4, 2018]
15
work.”
Work at the Fourth and Dauphin Streets Playground will be finished in 2019. The other
four completed projects employ rain gardens, porous basketball courts and other surfaces, and
landscaping that reflects a commitment to improving water quality, reducing flooding, and
maintaining water and sewer infrastructure. Feedback on design and amenities at each project
was sought from neighboring residents.
“Thanks to committed partners willing to innovate, these parks will provide water quality
benefits to the community for years to come,” said Capital Region Water Board Chairperson
Marc Kurowski. “We look forward to continuing this type of collaboration to address water,
wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure challenges more efficiently and with greater impact
for our customers.”
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
DCNR Blog, Click Here for upcoming events, Click Here to hook up with DCNR on other
social media-- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.
(Photo: Students from S ylvan Heights Science Charter School test new porous basketball court
at Cloverly Heights Park. C lick Here to watch a short video of the test (Twitter).)
Related Stories:
New Study: Riparian Buffers Provide Over $10,000/Year/Acre In Reducing Erosion, Flooding,
Increased Water Purification, Habitat, Property Values, More
Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
Chesapeake Bay Program Releases Best Management Practice Guide
Woodland Stewardship Network Connects Neighbors And Forested Landscape In PA
Lancaster County Graziers Group To Host Founder Of Savory Institute Sept. 19
Renovated City Of Harrisburg Playgrounds Become Green Infrastructure To Address
Recreation, Stormwater Pollution, Flood Reduction Needs
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster County
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Sun-Gazette: Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster County
Pike Conservation District: Proactive Stormwater Management
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State Amphibian
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State
Amphibian
16
A group of inspiring young people are attempting to
help clean Pennsylvania's waters with a
one-of-a-kind critter—the Eastern Hellbender.
Eastern Hellbenders rely on cold, clear, and
swift-running water for survival, but their primary
Pennsylvanian habitat is being destroyed.
Roughly 19,000 miles of Keystone State rivers and
streams are polluted, and, as a result, the largest
salamander in North America is quickly vanishing
from the region.
Now, students in CBF's Student Leadership Council
are drawing attention to the Hellbender's plight by
working to designate the salamander as Pennsylvania's official state amphibian.
After studying Hellbenders and meeting with legislators, the student-written Senate Bill
658 has passed the state Senate.
But the State House needs to pass the bill as well. Join the ranks of hellbender defenders
by urging your representative to support the hellbender bill.
The students' work to recognize this vanishing critter and highlight the fight for clean
water is inspiring.
But the job is only half done and there are only 9 scheduled voting days yet this year in
the House.
Click Here to add your name today to the petition and join the 5,255 other people urging
members of House of Representatives to designate the Eastern Hellbender the official amphibian
of the Keystone State.
Related Story:
House Returns To Session Sept. 12, Now’s The Time To Become A Hellbender Defender!
Related Stories This Week:
New Study: Riparian Buffers Provide Over $10,000/Year/Acre In Reducing Erosion, Flooding,
Increased Water Purification, Habitat, Property Values, More
Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
Chesapeake Bay Program Releases Best Management Practice Guide
Woodland Stewardship Network Connects Neighbors And Forested Landscape In PA
Lancaster County Graziers Group To Host Founder Of Savory Institute Sept. 19
Renovated City Of Harrisburg Playgrounds Become Green Infrastructure To Address
Recreation, Stormwater Pollution, Flood Reduction Needs
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster County
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Sun-Gazette: Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Pike Conservation District: Proactive Stormwater Management
How You Can Help
17
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 5, 2018]
18
honoree.
-- Tony Hanna / City of Bethlehem Redevelopment Authority will receive the Public Sector
Excellence Award for governmental entities and their executives who demonstrate visionary
leadership and political courage.
Tony's leadership of the RDA during the acquisition and repurposing of the Bethlehem
Steel site played a central role in the City's remarkable revitalization. This award also salutes the
key role the RDA played in leveraging critical tax incentive programs.
In addition to recognizing these major award recipients, 10,000 Friends' Commonwealth
Awards will be awarded to leading private sector companies, and public and nonprofit
institutions, whose projects and initiatives have made outstanding contributions to the City of
Bethlehem.
The recipients of these project-specific awards will be announced prior to the event.
The December 6 awards event will be held at ArtsQuest in Bethlehem. Click Here for
the latest information. Sponsorship information available. Questions should be directed to
Cassandra Romanowski at 717-234-6070 or send email to: cromanowski@10000friends.org.
For more information on programs, initiatives and other upcoming events, visit the
10,000 Friends of Pennsylvania website.
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
Report: PA Residential, Industrial Consumers Saved Over $30.5 Billion Between 2006 -
2016 From Increased Natural Gas Production
19
-- Pennsylvania’s abundant energy resources have spurred economic investment and brought
jobs to the state. Studies have tallied nearly 322,600 jobs in Pennsylvania that provide nearly $23
billion in wages to Pennsylvanians.
-- In 2017, the median annual salary for an employee at one of Pennsylvania’s top oil and natural
gas producers exceeded $113,000. These wages support local economies and grow small
businesses. The report attributed almost $44.5 billion in economic impact from the state’s oil and
gas industry.
-- In 2017, high production rates in the Marcellus region generated high demand for pipeline
transport of natural gas supplies. Because of this increase, Pennsylvania saw the oil and gas
pipeline industry grow 153.5 percent – creating jobs for over 21,000 workers.
Click Here to read the report.
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
DEP: Aerial Mosquito Spraying Set For Luzerne County On September 10:
20
Luzerne County.
DEP Vector Management staff have determined the spray be conducted in response to
high populations of nuisance and WNV infected adult mosquitoes that have been detected in the
Wyoming Valley, associated with the recent flooding in the area.
The aerial application will be done by Vector Disease Control (VDCI) International out
of Greeneville, Mississippi. The product that will be used is Dibrom concentrate applied at a rate
of .75 oz/ac and is registered by EPA. The event will encompass 45,000 acres over the Wyoming
Valley and take place later in the evening. The rain date for this application is Tuesday,
September 11, 2018.
Other Spraying Events
Other upcoming spraying events are listed on the West Nile Virus Program homepage
(lower right) or Click Here to check on spraying in other parts of the state.
For more information about West Nile virus and the state's surveillance and control
program, please visit the West Nile Virus website.
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
urging the Governor to end the moratorium on new non-surface disturbance natural gas drilling
21
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.
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.
Bills Introduced
Act 13 Pipeline Impact Fee: House Bill 2605 (Quinn-R-Delaware) dedicates a portion of the
Act 13 drilling impact fee to ensure pipeline safety (sponsor summary). Senate Bill 605
(Rafferty-R-Montgomery) is companion bill.
Drive Electric Week: House Resolution 1035 (Marshall-R-Beaver) recognizing the week of
September 8 to 16 as National Drive Electric Week in Pennsylvania (sponsor summary).
Session Schedule
Here is the latest voting session schedule for the Senate and House--
22
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 (non-voting), 13 (non-voting), 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.
The Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee is scheduled to hold a hearing
September 25 to discuss foreign influence on natural gas development in Pennsylvania.
In June The Caucus/LancasterOnline.com published a lengthy article on allegations
Russia, which depends on natural gas exports to Europe for cash, tried to preserve its dominance
by sowing discord and opposition to the development of natural gas in the United States,
Pennsylvania and to specific projects like the Dakota Access Pipeline.
The article follows a report by the Republican staff on the U.S. House Committee on
Science, Space And Technology released in March of this year that concluded, “Russian agents
were exploiting American social media platforms in an effort to disrupt domestic energy
markets, suppress research and development of fossil fuels, and stymie efforts to expand the use
of natural gas.”
The Caucus/LancasterOnline.com article pointed to a series of stories published by the
RT website, which is owned by RTTV America, Inc. a registered foreign agent with the U.S.
Department of Justice, that highlighted protests to natural gas development in the state.
The example articles included “Pipeline To Move Fracked Gas Across Pennsylvania As
Critics Cry Foul” and “Protesters Resisting Mariner East 2 Pipeline In Pennsylvania Feeling
Intimidated.”
Caucus/LancasterOnline.com also cited the story by Amy Sisk, a reporter for StateImpact
PA, as she recounted how a photo she took at the Dakota Access Pipeline demonstrators site was
used by Russia’s Internet Research Agency to illustrate a story on the U.S. House Committee
staff report on Russian influence in the energy sector.
Sisk’s found out about the use of the photo from a story in the Washington Post on how
23
Russian Internet trolls sought to inflame the debate over climate change, fracking and the Dakota
Pipeline.
David Masur from PennEnvironment was quoted in the Lancaster article as saying,
“Certainly the case against fracking is clearly supported by the facts and doesn’t need ‘fake
news’ or any foreign interference to know that dirty drilling is bad for our air, water, health and
environment.”
He added he hadn’t heard of Russian interference in the energy debate before a reporter
emailed him.
Click Here to read the Caucus/LancasterOnline.com story.
The hearing will be held in Hearing Room 1 of the North Office Building starting at
10:00. Click Here to check to see if the hearing will be webcast live.
Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming) serves as Majority Chair of the Senate Environmental
Committee and can be contacted by calling 717-787-3280 or sending email to:
gyaw@pasen.gov. Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne) serves as Minority Chair and can be
contacted by calling 717-787-7105 or sending email to: yudichak@pasenate.com.
(Photo: Mariner East 2 Pipeline construction in Lancaster County, LancasterOnline.com. )
NewsClips:
PA Natural Gas Boom Falls In Russia’s Crosshairs, Amplifies Discord In American Politics,
Energy Sector
How A Reporter’s Photo Wound Up In The Russia Investigations
Russian Trolls Sought To Inflame Debate Over Climate Change, Fracking, Dakota Pipeline
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
Rep. Quinn Introduces House Resolution To Require DEP, PUC To Do Mariner East 2
Pipeline Risk Assessment
24
the Governor, House and Senate.
Rep. Quinn has also House Bill 2609 requiring the state Attorney General To provide a
Landowner Bill Of Rights to property owners subject to eminent domain related to the
construction of pipelines and other projects.
NewsClips:
Hurdle: Sunoco Pipeline Leaked 33,000 Gallons Of Gasoline Into Philadelphia Creek
Kummer: Sunoco Pipeline Spilled 33,500 Gallons Of As At Darby Creek In June
Activist Study Reveals Safety Risks From Mariner East Pipelines In Delaware, Chester Counties
Crable: Lancaster Nuns Take Atlantic Sunrise Pipeline Case To U.S. Supreme Court, Plan Solar
Project
Federal Court Denies Challenge To DEP Permits For Atlantic Sunrise Pipeline
StateImpact Energy Explained Podcast: Discussion Of Mariner East 2 Pipeline Controversies
Activists Ask DEP To Reject Permits For Falcon Ethane Pipeline In Southwest PA
Letter: Williams Northeast Supply Enhancement Pipeline Does Not Threaten Environment
WITF Smart Talk: What Happens When Smart Growth Policies Collide With Stakeholder
Interests?
Related Stories:
PUC, DEP: There Needs To Be A Serious Conversation On Legislation Controlling Pipeline
Siting
PA Supreme Court Denies Appeal Of Decisions Saying Local Zoning Ordinances Do Not Apply
To Mariner East Pipelines
DEP Issues Modified Permits For Mariner East 2 Pipeline In Chester County; PUC Lifts
Construction Ban At 2 Locations
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
26
West Pittston Flood Mitigation Project Gets Luzerne County Approval
Editorial: Flooding Concerns In Lycoming County Underscored By This Rain-Filled Summer
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
27
And, our video series on Stormwater Best Management Practices.
-- Part 1 – Overview of BMPs
-- Part 2 – Installation Examples
-- Part 3 – Dirt, Gravel and Low Volume Road Program
Click Here to download the District’s Homeowners Guide To Stormwater Management.
For more information on programs, technical and financial assistance to landowners, visit
the Pike County Conservation District website.
NewsClip:
Monroeville Residents Express Concern Over Stormwater Management Fee
Green Infrastructure Related Stories:
Renew The State's Commitment To Keeping Pennsylvania Clean, Green And Growing
Meeting The Challenge Of Keeping Pennsylvania Clean, Green And Growing
Emma Creek Restoration Project Reduced Flood Damage, Sediment & Nutrient Pollution In
Huntingdon County
Another Green Infrastructure Project Reduces Flooding In Manheim, Lancaster County
Green Infrastructure Offers Triple Benefits, Cost Effective Solutions To Stormwater Pollution,
Reducing Flood Damage
Northampton County Parks & Rec Staff, Watershed Volunteers Repair Riparian Buffer At Fry’s
Run County Park Within Days Of Flash Flood
Penn State Extension: After The Flood - Riparian Buffers Need Maintenance
Related Stories This Week:
New Study: Riparian Buffers Provide Over $10,000/Year/Acre In Reducing Erosion, Flooding,
Increased Water Purification, Habitat, Property Values, More
Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
Chesapeake Bay Program Releases Best Management Practice Guide
Woodland Stewardship Network Connects Neighbors And Forested Landscape In PA
Lancaster County Graziers Group To Host Founder Of Savory Institute Sept. 19
Renovated City Of Harrisburg Playgrounds Become Green Infrastructure To Address
Recreation, Stormwater Pollution, Flood Reduction Needs
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster County
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Sun-Gazette: Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State Amphibian
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 4, 2018]
28
By Ryan Davis, PA Chesapeake Bay Forests Program Management
29
The voucher is based on the amount of acres that a landowner contributes and the total
amount of acres in the network, to incentivize more neighbors to join.
It typically doesn’t add up to a huge amount, but allows landowners to continue to
manage past what EQIP will fund, like purchasing a backpack sprayer and herbicide to keep up
with infestations of invasive species.
Networks are currently being built through the program in Franklin, Mifflin, and
Cumberland Counties.
The approach and the Woodland Stewardship Network Program incentives are not only
helping stewardship-minded landowners to get more done in their woods, but are bringing their
neighbors, who have no forest management plans and conduct little to no management, into the
fold.
At the very least, there will be several large blocks of connected forest that have updated
forest management plans, decreasing the likelihood of high-grading in these areas.
At the most, it will result in improved forest health within these large blocks, and the
creation of habitat patches for imperiled wildlife like golden-winged and cerulean warblers that,
due to their proximity, are more beneficial for population growth and persistence in our state.
At this time, the Woodland Stewardship Network Program only covers a small area (see
the map) and only has funding to support a small number of networks.
The Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay hopes to scale the program up by increasing the
number of networks supported and by reaching further geographically, but there will never be
enough resources to assist every private forest landowner in the state.
The network approach, however, is valuable everywhere, and landowners could receive
immense benefits by banding together without programmatic assistance.
Helping your neighbors to engage in forest management can make the work more
efficient and effective, and will result in a healthier forest landscape that is more resilient,
enjoyable, and valuable.
For more information, contact Ryan Davis by calling 717-517-8698 or sending email to:
rdavis@allianceforthebay.org.
Visit the Forests for the Bay website for more valuable information on forest
management in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. The Pennsylvania portion by the Chesapeake
Bay Watershed covers more than half the state and all or part of 43 counties.
(Map: Current boundaries of pilot Woodland Stewardship Network Program.)
(Reprinted from the September 5 Forests for the Chesapeake Bay newsletter from the A
lliance
for the Chesapeake Bay.)
NewsClips:
Researchers Hope To Learn What Makes Spotted Lanternflies Tick
DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Program Links Young Adults To The Outdoors
It’s Fungus, Not Fall That’s Causing Leaves To Drop In Western PA
Frazier: Bringing The Forest Back After Shale Gas
Forest Wildfires
AP: Trucks Abandoned As California Wildfire Shuts Down I-5
Wildfire Closes 45-Mile Stretch Of I-5 In Northern California
California Wildfires Cause $845 Million In Insurance Losses This Year So Far
Related Stories:
30
New Study: Riparian Buffers Provide Over $10,000/Year/Acre In Reducing Erosion, Flooding,
Increased Water Purification, Habitat, Property Values, More
Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
Chesapeake Bay Program Releases Best Management Practice Guide
Lancaster County Graziers Group To Host Founder Of Savory Institute Sept. 19
Renovated City Of Harrisburg Playgrounds Become Green Infrastructure To Address
Recreation, Stormwater Pollution, Flood Reduction Needs
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster County
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
Sun-Gazette: Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Pike Conservation District: Proactive Stormwater Management
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State Amphibian
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 5, 2018]
Sun-Gazette: Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research
Efforts
31
Related Story:
House Returns To Session Sept. 12, Now’s The Time To Become A Hellbender Defender!
Related Stories This Week:
New Study: Riparian Buffers Provide Over $10,000/Year/Acre In Reducing Erosion, Flooding,
Increased Water Purification, Habitat, Property Values, More
Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
Chesapeake Bay Program Releases Best Management Practice Guide
Woodland Stewardship Network Connects Neighbors And Forested Landscape In PA
Lancaster County Graziers Group To Host Founder Of Savory Institute Sept. 19
Renovated City Of Harrisburg Playgrounds Become Green Infrastructure To Address
Recreation, Stormwater Pollution, Flood Reduction Needs
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster County
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
Pike Conservation District: Proactive Stormwater Management
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State Amphibian
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 4, 2018]
32
Also speaking will be Chris Kerston, who has worked for the institute and is a facilitator
for Mr. Savory.
Mr. Kerston will be speaking about how holistic resource management works and why,
making it clear what the Savory Institute is and does, and how they endeavor to make farms and
ranches successful.
The Lancaster County Graziers, SpringWood Organic Farm and PA Grazing Lands
Coalition invite you to support this event with your attendance-- don’t miss the opportunity to
learn from masters in the science of grazing, improving soil and the environment.
The program will be held at the Martindale Reception Center, 352 Martindale Road in
Ephrata. Registration begins at 6:00 a.m. and the event runs from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The
registration fee is $75. Exhibitor spaces are also available.
For more information or to "pre-register," please send name, address and/or question by
text to Roman Stoltzfoos at 717-278-1070 or fill out the paper form at the SpringWood Organic
Farm website.
NewsClips:
Windy Heights Farm, Forejt Family Named Westmoreland Conservation Farmer Of The Year
Luzerne County Farmland Preservation Reaches Milestone
Union County Takes Steps To Preserve More Farmland
Researchers Hope To Learn What Makes Spotted Lanternflies Tick
Plans Advance For Lancaster Urban Farming Initiative Greenhouse In Downtown
Dr. Doug Tallamy, LandStudies Recognize The Value Of Native Plants for Pollinators
Related Stories:
New Study: Riparian Buffers Provide Over $10,000/Year/Acre In Reducing Erosion, Flooding,
Increased Water Purification, Habitat, Property Values, More
Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
Chesapeake Bay Program Releases Best Management Practice Guide
Woodland Stewardship Network Connects Neighbors And Forested Landscape In PA
Lancaster County Graziers Group To Host Founder Of Savory Institute Sept. 19
Renovated City Of Harrisburg Playgrounds Become Green Infrastructure To Address
Recreation, Stormwater Pollution, Flood Reduction Needs
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster County
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
Sun-Gazette: Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State Amphibian
Pike Conservation District: Proactive Stormwater Management
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
33
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
34
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
35
The project, developed over the past 20 years, provides a unique model for the integration
of meadows and reforestation into a conventional development.
On average, the lawn area has been reduced by 50 percent and over 20 acres of warm
season grass meadows and reforestation have been established.
Dr Tallamy was impressed with the biodiversity present on the site and was particularly
encouraged by the sighting of a Bobolink in one of the meadows. Bobolinks are a threatened
songbird species that requires bio-diverse open meadows and grasslands for survival.
LandStudies’ more than 20 years of involvement with The Homes at Wyncote includes
developing the initial master plan, developing the native landscape guidelines, working with
many of the individual homeowners, and designing and installing the initial meadows and
reforestation.
This has resulted in a unique model for sustainable development that could be replicated
within other conventional housing developments throughout the state.
This example illustrates how new neighborhoods do not have to be devoid of life and
follow the old suburban landscapes dominated by non-native ornamental plants and lawns. It
demonstrates that native landscaping can provide habitat without sacrificing function and beauty
as well.
Planting more native species is something that everyone can do to encourage pollinator
species establishment and its linkage to supporting other life forms that are crucial to our
ecosystems and communities as a whole.
For additional pollinator-friendly resources visit Penn State Extension’s Center for
Pollinator Research.
For more information, visit the LandStudies website or contact Laurel Etter Longenecker,
717-627-4440 or send email to: laurel@landstudies.com. Click Here to sign up for green
infrastructure updates. LandStudies is certified as a Women’s Business Enterprise (WBE),
Minority Business Enterprise (MBE) and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE) based in
Lititz, Lancaster County. Follow LandStudies on Twitter, Like them on Facebook.
(Photo: The Homes at Wyncote project.)
Additional Resource Links:
DCNR Landscaping With Native Plants
Gardening For Butterflies: Penn State Extension
Planting For Pollinators: Penn State Extension
Center For Pollinator Research, Penn State
Pennsylvania Pollinator Protection Plan - Learn Why Pollinators Are At Risk In PA
Ernst Seeds - Pollinator Habitat Restoration
NewsClips:
Researchers Hope To Learn What Makes Spotted Lanternflies Tick
Millersville Students: Swarming Mayflies May Be Fertilizer, Human Food Source
Dr. Doug Tallamy, LandStudies Recognize The Value Of Native Plants for Pollinators
36
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Wednesday announced they have agreed to settle a multi-site construction-related stormwater
case. PennDOT will also pay a penalty of $100,000.
The parties are resolving 209 alleged violations at PennDOT-owned construction sites
arising from PennDOT’s construction contractors failing to fully implement best management
practices (BMPs) as required by the Clean Water Act and Pennsylvania’s Clean Streams Law.
In a consent agreement with EPA, PennDOT has agreed to implement a comprehensive
compliance management program and complete multi-million dollar environmentally beneficial
projects in several Pennsylvania watersheds, including Codorus Creek Watershed in York
County.
“This case is part of EPA’s effort to protect local waters by vigorously enforcing the
Clean Water Act.,” said EPA Regional Administrator Cosmo Servidio. “Without appropriate
onsite pollution controls, sediment-laden runoff from construction activities can pollute our
rivers, lakes and streams. This agreement institutes a comprehensive program that will enable
PennDOT to better comply with discharge requirements, resulting in cleaner water for
communities across Pennsylvania.”
As part of the settlement, PennDOT has already begun to create a compliance
management program to ensure that their construction activities meet the requirements of their
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater permits. The major elements of
this program include:
-- Developing a compliance monitoring data system to track weekly visual self-inspections using
mobile devices and improve monitoring of construction contractors’ NPDES compliance,
including the status of actions to correct deficiencies;
-- Conducting stormwater inspection training – PennDOT will provide training to all current and
newly hired staff on proper stormwater inspection methodology;
-- Implementing periodic self-audits of construction sites to determine the effectiveness of the
compliance management program and its elements; and
-- Creating a public information webpage identifying PennDOT efforts to comply with NPDES
requirements
PennDOT’s environmentally beneficial projects will restore the quality of streams within
the Codorus Creek and other Watersheds.
PennDOT will also test an innovative procurement mechanism which requires contractors
to compete for a project from a sediment-reduction standpoint, with the contract being awarded
to the contractor whose project management plan will reduce the most sediment pollution for the
available funds.
Plans may include improvements like the construction of structural BMPs such as
stormwater management ponds, vegetated swales and buffer strips, and stabilizing stream banks
for reducing sediment loadings to surface waters.
This effort is a pilot project for coordination between PennDOT and local municipalities
regarding stormwater management and will serve as a model for other communities.
Under the federal Clean Water Act, the NPDES program requires construction sites to
obtain discharge permits. EPA has delegated the NPDES program to Pennsylvania.
In order meet these responsibilities, DEP has developed a program that includes
inspections by County Conservation Districts to ensure compliance with Pennsylvania’s NPDES
construction program requirements.
37
In this settlement, EPA has coordinated with the CCDs in Pennsylvania regarding
inspections of PennDOT construction sites and the sharing of compliance information. The
CCDs in Pennsylvania were instrumental in contributing to the success of this settlement.
Uncontrolled stormwater runoff from highway construction sites often contains sediment
and other pollutants.
The Clean Water Act requires owners of certain industrial and construction operations to
obtain a permit before discharging stormwater runoff into waterways. These permits include
pollution-reducing BMPs such as spill prevention safeguards, runoff reduction measures, and
employee training.
For more information about EPAs Stormwater Program webpage.
NewsClip:
Monroeville Residents Express Concern Over Stormwater Management Fee
[Posted: Sept. 5, 2018]
SRBC Small Water System Finances, Funding, Preparing For Emergencies, Regulatory
Updates Workshop Oct. 18
38
Click Here to register or for more information. Questions should be directed to Brent
Bauman, Hydrogeologist, SRBC, by calling 717-238-0423 x1235 or send email to:
bbauman@srbc.net.
The workshop is part of SRBC’s Public Water Supply Assistance Program.
For more information on programs, training opportunities and upcoming events, visit the
Susquehanna River Basin Commission website. Click Here to sign up for SRBC’s newsletter.
Follow SRBC on Twitter, visit them on YouTube.
NewsClips:
Maykuth: PA Law Sets Off Feeding Frenzy For Public Water/Wastewater Systems, Who Pays?
Mayor Says Pittsburgh Water Authority At Financial Crossroads
Boil Water Advisories Issued For 2 Pittsburgh Neighborhoods
Editorial: Lead In Pittsburgh Water A Continuing Threat
Hurdle: EPA Urged To Set Enforceable Health Standard For PFAS
Blair County Volunteers Help Drill, Repair Water Wells In El Salvador
Kummer: NJ First State To Regulate Toxic PFNAs In Drinking Water
New Jersey Water Systems Must Start Testing For PFNA In Early 2019
[Posted: Sept. 5, 2018]
OSM Approves Removing 11 Sites From Alternative Bonding System Abandoned Mine
Sites Lists
39
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.
NewsClip:
Trump Nominee To Head Federal Office Of Surface Mining Withdraws
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
40
Canadian provinces.
These 4 documents are proposed to be adopted or amended--
-- Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact Rules of Practice and
Procedures. This document, proposed to be adopted by Council as a regulation, describes the
process for any administrative hearing, how modifications may be made to Council decisions,
and the process to be used for Council rulemaking. Comments are being accepted on all portions
of the proposed Rules of Practice and Procedure. (C lick Here for a copy.)
-- Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources Compact Guidance. This
guidance document mirrors the Regional Body Procedures through Parts I and II with respect to
review of a diversion subject to the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Water Resources
Compact. The Compact Council proposes amending Interim Guidance adopted on June 10, 2010.
Comments are being accepted on all portions of the proposed Compact Guidance. (C lick Here
for a copy.)
-- Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Water Resources Regional Body Procedures. This
guidance document contains the procedures that the Regional Body will follow during the review
of a diversion subject to the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin Sustainable Water Resources
Agreement through the issuance of its Declaration of Finding. This document mirrors the
Compact Guidance for Parts I and II. The Regional Body proposes amending Interim Procedures
adopted on June 10, 2010. Comments are being accepted on all portions of the proposed
Regional Body Procedures. (C lick Here for a copy.)
-- Sequence of Events for Consideration of Proposals for Exceptions to the Prohibition on
Diversions that are Subject to Regional Review. This guidance document, proposed to be
adopted by the Council and the Regional Body, outlines the steps for review and
decision-making for a diversion proposal. Comments are being accepted on all portions of the
proposed Sequence of Events. (C lick Here for a copy.)
Hearing Oct. 3
A public hearing will be held on the proposals October 3, beginning no sooner than 1
p.m. at the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, Indiana Government Center South, 302
West Washington Street, Conference Rooms 1 & 2, Indianapolis, IN.
Remote participation for the public hearing is available by webinar. Click Here to
register.
Comments must be submitted no later than 5:00 p.m. on October 10. Comments should
be submitted to the Council or Regional Body, or both, electronically at comments@gsgp.org or
by mail to the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Water Resources Council, Great Lakes-St.
Lawrence Water Resources Regional Body, c/o Great Lakes-St. Lawrence Governors and
Premiers, 20 North Wacker Drive, Suite 2700, Chicago, IL 60606.
For more information or questions, read the entire PA Bulletin notice or contact Timothy
Bruno at the Department of Environmental Protection, Office of the Great Lakes, by calling
814-835-1477 or send email to: tibruno@pa.gov.
(Photo: Presque Isle, Erie.)
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
Agriculture Officials Visit Wilson College's Organic Fulton Farm, Center For
Sustainability Studies
41
Department of Agriculture Executive Deputy Secretary Michael Smith and other officials Friday
toured Wilson College’s Fulton Farm, a working organic produce farm and environmental
education facility at the Fulton Center for Sustainability Studies in Chambersburg, Franklin
County.
The organic farm provides hands-on learning experiences to students and the community
and inspires future agriculturalists though full- and part-season internships in sustainable
farming.
“The Fulton Farm is an excellent resource, not just to Wilson College, but to the
surrounding community,” said Smith. “Its commitment to stewardship, sustainability, education,
and outreach provides students and their neighbors the chance to pursue and explore all of the
opportunities available in agriculture.”
Dedicated to environmental stewardship, Fulton Farm endeavors to use a minimal
amount of non-renewable resources; minimize pollution of the soil, water, and air on the farm
and “downstream;” promote biodiversity; ensure farm-worker safety and health; and provide
healthy, locally produced food for the campus and community.
The farm is part of a Community Supported Agriculture Program, providing produce to
more than 125 community members. It is open to the public and provides free community
learning events, cooking classes, and composting demonstrations.
The Fulton Center for Sustainability Studies teaches students how to promote
sustainability in food production, energy, transportation, and land stewardship.
“We are so pleased to have Deputy Secretary Smith visit Wilson College and Fulton
Farm,” Chris Mayer, director of Wilson’s Fulton Center for Sustainability Studies said. “Our
farm has been a model for community supported agriculture at since 1996, and as Wilson’s
hands-on home for environmental education, we continue to educate students of all ages for
humane stewardship of our communities and our world.”
Pennsylvania agriculture is a $135 billion industry with tremendous opportunities, but
one that is also facing several challenges, including an aging workforce. Attrition and advancing
technologies will result in a workforce deficit of nearly 75,000 over the next decade.
The Planting the Seed Tour aims to engage and educate the next generation about the
many education and career opportunities available in Pennsylvania agriculture.
Over the past three years, the Wolf Administration has invested more than $50 million in
agriculture-related economic development projects; increased support for workforce
development and agricultural education to help prepare students and workers for the thousands
of anticipated job openings in the industry over the next decade; and signed historic legislation
that has created new markets for farmers and lowered their tax burdens.
The administration is also working to expand broadband access to hundreds of thousands
of Pennsylvanians, creating jobs and improving infrastructure statewide, especially in rural
communities.
For more information about the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s programs and
services, or to learn more about the Planting the Seed Initiative.
NewsClips:
Windy Heights Farm, Forejt Family Named Westmoreland Conservation Farmer Of The Year
Luzerne County Farmland Preservation Reaches Milestone
Union County Takes Steps To Preserve More Farmland
Researchers Hope To Learn What Makes Spotted Lanternflies Tick
42
Plans Advance For Lancaster Urban Farming Initiative Greenhouse In Downtown
Dr. Doug Tallamy, LandStudies Recognize The Value Of Native Plants for Pollinators
Related Stories:
Delaware River Watershed Initiative: Clean Water, Healthy Fish, Happy Kids In Chester County
Stroud Water Research Center: Get Slimed, Good Fences-Good Water, Educating Stewards Of
Tomorrow
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
DEP Teaching Green: Environmental Ed Grant Success Stories
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
43
to develop student scientists and watershed-smart citizens and help get local streams off the
impaired-status list by doing so.
Elementary, secondary, and college students, in partnership with IUP faculty and grad
students, will monitor biological and chemical water quality, flow rates, stormwater events, and
the impact of remediation projects. They’ll submit the data to a shared database and perform data
analysis.
Not only does this project provide hands-on meaningful watershed education
experiences, but the data inform policy discussions by local governments and environmental
organizations, as participants share stream assessment findings with community groups through
the Stormwater Education Partnership.
We’ve also held two Act 48 teacher workshops to develop a standards-based curriculum,
and a third one this fall will see these classroom materials completed, incorporating new water
quality lesson plans into the local school curriculum.
-- Enabling Students to Create Safe Green Spaces
By Rachel Bowers, Grounded Strategies, Pittsburgh
Green Playces: Student Ambassadors is an in-school program that works with Allegheny
County secondary students to transform vacant and underused land on or near their school
grounds into safe and creative places.
In the 2017-2018 school year, student ambassadors in two fifth-grade classes at Twin
Rivers Intermediate School in McKeesport transformed an unused courtyard space into a
meditative space, with outdoor seating that observes a landscaped area with native pollinator
plants.
Fifteen students at Propel Andrew Street High School in Homestead transformed a vacant
lot that is home to the school's beekeeping class and apiary. They chose to make the space more
community-oriented by adding seating and gathering spaces, as well as to celebrate the bees with
a bee-themed mural and pollinator gardens.
Through Green Playces projects, students learn the process of designing, planning, and
building green spaces for their school community. They examine environmental justice issues,
such as land use, air quality, and water quality, and are introduced to the green economy.
Students leave the program with the tools to engage their community with a deeper
understanding of environmental justice issues.
-- Teaching Deep Local Connections to Climate Change
By Diane Motel, Wildlands Conservancy, Emmaus
Through the “Climate Change in Our Watershed” project, the Wildlands Conservancy
provided place-based climate education to middle school teachers and students to help them
develop a deep, local connection to environmental issues and the skills and knowledge to create
personally relevant collective actions.
Using Project Learning Tree’s Climate Change training, we provided a professional
development workshop to classroom teachers and naturalists. We delivered watershed-focused
climate change programs to over 500 middle school students, having groups rotate through 5
stations: climate change 101, a topo map/augmented reality box (Facebook), an eco-chamber lab,
a local effects hike, and a citizen science lab. We addressed the climate change literacy challenge
by weaving a social media component through this STEM-centered project focused on personal
efficacy.
Click Here for a copy of DEP’s Teaching Green. Have questions and suggestions?
44
Contact Bert Myers, Director of DEP’s Environmental Education and Information Center, by
sending email to gimyers@pa.gov.
NewsClips:
DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Program Links Young Adults To The Outdoors
Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Dickinson Environmental Science Major Helps Restore Oyster Population In Chesapeake Bay
Millersville Students: Swarming Mayflies May Be Fertilizer, Human Food Source
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center To Reopen Saturday After Renovations
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center Reopens
Duquesne Among 3 PA Universities To Launch STEM Fellowship Program
Related Stories:
Delaware River Watershed Initiative: Clean Water, Healthy Fish, Happy Kids In Chester County
Stroud Water Research Center: Get Slimed, Good Fences-Good Water, Educating Stewards Of
Tomorrow
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
Agriculture Officials Visit Wilson College's Organic Fulton Farm, Center For Sustainability
Studies
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
45
reinforce in-class lessons and to emphasize the importance of clean water and enjoy the
opportunity to paddle a canoe.
Students will investigate the health of local waterways through a variety of hands-on
activities like up-close studies of the bugs and other species living in the waterway; studying the
physical characteristics of the waterway, the shoreline, and the adjoining lands; using water
chemistry tests to determine quality; and by using maps to orient students with their specific
watershed.
The purpose of the program is to provide field experiences that help students build a
critical connection to the natural world in which they live that will motivate their
decision-making as they develop into citizens and future leaders in Pennsylvania.
The programs will run from September 10 to November 9.
Click Here for a copy of the schedule and other background.
For more info or if media is interested in scheduling time on the water with students and
CBF's SWEEP team, contact B.J. Small, PA Media and Communications Coordinator, by
calling 717-200-4521, or send email to: bsmall@cbf.org.
Visit the Susquehanna Watershed Environmental Education Program webpage for
information on how to sign up for future events.
For more on Chesapeake Bay-related issues in Pennsylvania, visit the Chesapeake Bay
Foundation-PA webpage. Click Here to sign up for Pennsylvania updates (bottom of left
column). Click Here to support their work.
NewsClips:
DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Program Links Young Adults To The Outdoors
Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Dickinson Environmental Science Major Helps Restore Oyster Population In Chesapeake Bay
Millersville Students: Swarming Mayflies May Be Fertilizer, Human Food Source
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center To Reopen Saturday After Renovations
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center Reopens
Duquesne Among 3 PA Universities To Launch STEM Fellowship Program
Related Stories:
Delaware River Watershed Initiative: Clean Water, Healthy Fish, Happy Kids In Chester County
Stroud Water Research Center: Get Slimed, Good Fences-Good Water, Educating Stewards Of
Tomorrow
DEP Teaching Green: Environmental Ed Grant Success Stories
Agriculture Officials Visit Wilson College's Organic Fulton Farm, Center For Sustainability
Studies
New Study: Riparian Buffers Provide Over $10,000/Year/Acre In Reducing Erosion, Flooding,
Increased Water Purification, Habitat, Property Values, More
Bay Journal: Washed Away By Sediment? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay
Restoration Gains, But Also Helped
Chesapeake Bay Program Releases Best Management Practice Guide
Woodland Stewardship Network Connects Neighbors And Forested Landscape In PA
Lancaster County Graziers Group To Host Founder Of Savory Institute Sept. 19
Renovated City Of Harrisburg Playgrounds Become Green Infrastructure To Address
Recreation, Stormwater Pollution, Flood Reduction Needs
Bay Journal Op-Ed: Turkey Hill Clean Water Partnership Leads The Way In Lancaster County
46
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
Sun-Gazette: Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Add Your Name To Petition Urging House To Name The Hellbender Official State Amphibian
Pike Conservation District: Proactive Stormwater Management
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 4, 2018]
Delaware River Watershed Initiative: Clean Water, Healthy Fish, Happy Kids In Chester
County
47
New Jersey and Delaware.
Already, in the Brandywine Christina basin, communities have used easements to
preserve 19 farms that span 1,243 acres.
Additionally, nonprofit staff and volunteers have installed nearly eight miles of stream
bank fencing and planted more than 19,000 trees along 12 miles of streams, creating more than
123 acres of stream-side buffers.
The partners have helped six municipalities to adopt streamside (or riparian) buffer
ordinances to preserve the trees that act as natural water filters for runoff from roads, roofs and
fields.
As part of the Delaware River Watershed Initiative, Brandywine-Christina partners are
expanding their geographic focus and stepping up assistance with local municipalities for clean
water protections.
It’s an ideal place to make a big impact on clean water: the Brandywine River, together
with the Red and White Clay creeks, provides over 100 million gallons of drinking water a day
to over 500,000 residents.
To learn more, visit the William Penn Foundation’s Delaware River Watershed Initiative
website.
NewsClips:
DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Program Links Young Adults To The Outdoors
Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Dickinson Environmental Science Major Helps Restore Oyster Population In Chesapeake Bay
Millersville Students: Swarming Mayflies May Be Fertilizer, Human Food Source
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center To Reopen Saturday After Renovations
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center Reopens
Duquesne Among 3 PA Universities To Launch STEM Fellowship Program
Related Stories:
Stroud Water Research Center: Get Slimed, Good Fences-Good Water, Educating Stewards Of
Tomorrow
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
DEP Teaching Green: Environmental Ed Grant Success Stories
Agriculture Officials Visit Wilson College's Organic Fulton Farm, Center For Sustainability
Studies
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
Stroud Water Research Center: Get Slimed, Good Fences-Good Water, Educating
Stewards Of Tomorrow
48
-- Getting Slimed: Scientists Investigate Biofilms In Streams Amidst Climate Change
-- Good Farm Fences Make Good Water
-- Training The Teachers Of Today To Educate The Stewards Of Tomorrow
-- Citizen Scientists - World Water Monitoring Day Celebration Sept. 19
-- Meet Mandy Nix: New Watershed Education Specialist (photo)
-- 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 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.
NewsClips:
DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Program Links Young Adults To The Outdoors
Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Dickinson Environmental Science Major Helps Restore Oyster Population In Chesapeake Bay
Millersville Students: Swarming Mayflies May Be Fertilizer, Human Food Source
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center To Reopen Saturday After Renovations
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center Reopens
Duquesne Among 3 PA Universities To Launch STEM Fellowship Program
Related Stories:
Delaware River Watershed Initiative: Clean Water, Healthy Fish, Happy Kids In Chester County
CBF-PA: 16 Student Groups In 6 Counties To Participate In Fall Susquehanna Watershed
Environmental Education Program
DEP Teaching Green: Environmental Ed Grant Success Stories
Agriculture Officials Visit Wilson College's Organic Fulton Farm, Center For Sustainability
Studies
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
Municipalities In 8 Counties Receive Fresh Paint Days Grants From Keep PA Beautiful,
Behr, The Home Depot
49
The grants were awarded to--
-- Olivet Boys and Girls Club, Reading, Berks County: The playground shelter, bathrooms,
picnic tables and sidewalk games.
-- Nonprofit Development Corporation, Clarion, Clarion County: The Clarion County
Drop-in Center/Victory House, a consumer-run center that provides support for people in
recovery.
-- Borough of Union City, Union City, Erie County: A historic residence at the entrance to the
community.
-- Main Street Waynesboro Inc., Waynesboro, Franklin County: Zoe's Chocolate Company,
a family-owned destination restaurant and strong supporter of downtown activities.
-- Stroudsburg United Methodist Church, Stroudsburg, Monroe County: The Parish Hall
addition to the Stroudsburg United Methodist church used for community outreach programs.
-- Keep Norristown Beautiful, Norristown, Montgomery County: The Norristown Bandshell
Stage at Elmwood Park, an outdoor amphitheater that has been a landmark in the community
since 1936.
-- Association Puertorriquenos en Marcha, Philadelphia County: The Children's Mission
building that provides local children with interactive educational programs and health and
wellness services to adults and seniors.
-- West Newton Public Library, West Newton, Westmoreland County: The refurbished
two-story structure that houses the public library.
“We are very proud and honored to partner with Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful and The
Home Depot on this wonderful program,” Robert Kracker, Behr Paint and Kilz Primers,
Regional Sales Manager. “Giving back to our communities is at the very Core of our Corporate
philosophy, as well as being extremely important to those of us living in these communities,”
said
“Through our partnership with Behr and The Home Depot, Fresh Paint Days
Pennsylvania empowers community groups to take a direct role in community revitalization
efforts,” explained Shannon Reiter, President of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful. “We know that
structures that are maintained cultivate community pride and we are excited to see so many
community members who are willing to roll up their sleeves and make a difference in their
communities.
“Something as simple as a fresh coat of paint on a community structure can help reverse
the negative effects of blight and sends a strong message that we care about our communities,”
Reiter added. “Congratulations to the recipients of this year’s Fresh Paint Days Pennsylvania
grants and thank you all for participating.”
During the month of September, the grant recipients will transform their structure
utilizing up to 20 gallons of exterior paints, courtesy of Behr and a gift card for painting supplies
courtesy of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.
For more information on this program, visit the KPB’s Fresh Paint Days Pennsylvania
Grants webpage.
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
50
communities and keep them clean and KPB’s Electronics Waste website.
[Posted: Sept. 4, 2018]
Friends Of Allegheny Wilderness 10th Annual Allegheny River Cleanup Sept. 10-15
51
become a member.
NewsClips:
Armstrong Flooring Recycling Program Hits 100 Million Pound Milestone
Blair Multi-Municipal Group Gets Funds to Set Up Recycling Dropoff Site
Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Bash The Philly Trash Cops
O’Neill: Talking Trash Before The Garbage Olympics In Pittsburgh
Improving The Environment One Fork At A Time
Editorial: Rules For Burning Trash, Leaves, Brush In Blair Communities Should Be Modernized
[Posted: Sept. 5, 2018]
PA Superior Court Upholds County Court Ruling Dismissing SLAPP Suit Filed By A
Developer Against Delaware Riverkeeper
The PA Superior Court Thursday upheld the decision by Chester County Court of Common
Pleas to dismiss a lawsuit by the developer of the Bishop Tube Hazardous Waste Site seeking
damages for public comments made by the Delaware Riverkeeper about the project.
The PA Superior Court said there were no grounds to overturn the Common Pleas Court
decision.
The August 2017 Common Pleas Court decision found the Delaware Riverkeeper were
engaged in constitutionally protected free speech under the First Amendment of the United
States Constitution and the Pennsylvania Constitution” and that the defendants are “immune
from Plaintiff’s tort claims.”
The Delaware Riverkeeper was represented by attorneys Mark L. Freed and Jordan B.
Yeager of Curtin & Heefner LLP.
“We’re pleased that the Court has vindicated the constitutional rights of residents to
speak up and advocate for a healthy environment without fear of retribution,” said Freed.
Click Here for a copy of the PA Superior Court decision.
NewsClip:
Hurdle: State Court Rejects Developer’s SLAPP Suit To Block Protest Against Development
Plan
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
DEP Receives Application Proposing Major Modifications To Closure Plan For Hatfield
Ferry Power Station CCB Landfill In Greene County
52
posting an adequate bond to cover pollution cleanup.
The settlement also contained an “Active Surface Improvement Plan” outlining steps for
addressing environmental concerns at the landfill.
Click Here for a copy of the 2017 settlement.
The application would remove the provision in the currently approved Closure Plan
allowing for deferral of placement of the cap and final cover system until completion of filling
operations, and would commit FirstEnergy to placing the cap and final cover in an ongoing
manner as site development proceeds.
The application also requests approval to utilize a completely synthetic final cover system
(i.e. ClosureTurf) in lieu of the membrane/soil system as currently approved.
DEP has determined the application is administratively complete, but has not yet started
its technical review.
Background
The landfill site was originally established to take CCB waste from the Hatfield Ferry
Power Station in 1984 and has gone through several repermitting cycles since then. In 2009 the
landfill was expanded under a permit revision to a total of 368 acres with 110 acres of disposal
area designed to hold 14.7 million cubic yards of waste.
In 2013 the Hatfield Ferry Power Station was closed, but the permit for the landfill was
extended by DEP until May 22, 2025.
In September 2015 DEP amended the landfill permit to allow for the disposal of 8 million
tons per year of CCB generated by the Bruce Mansfield Power Plant in Beaver County that had
previously been going to the Little Blue Run Disposal Impoundment.
The Little Blue Run Disposal Impoundment was closed in December 2016 as a result of a
Federal Court Consent Decree.
About 80 percent of the combustion-related waste from the Bruce Mansfield Plant had
also been going to West Virginia to reclaim mined areas near Moundsville. Another 20 percent
of the waste was going to National Gypsum to be used for raw material in its drywall
manufacturing plant right across the the power plant.
Earlier this month, FirstEnergy announced the Bruce Mansfield Power Plant would be
closing by June 1, 2021.
For more information, contact the DEP’s Southwest Regional Office at 412-442-4000.
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
PUC Hosts 8 ‘Be Utility Wise’ Consumer Education Events Across The State
53
“Be Utility Wise enables the Commission to bring together front-line community
building partners to learn new information, exchange ideas, and share tools and resources that
help us better serve the needs of struggling consumers,” said PUC Chairman Gladys M. Brown.
“The size and scope of these multi-faceted human services events underscore the personal
commitment many community-based agencies have in forging stronger families, healthier
communities and safer neighborhoods.”
The schedule of events follows--
--September 14 - Erie: Ambassador Conference Center, 7792 Peach St., Erie, PA, 8 a.m. – 3:30
p.m.
-- September 25 - Pittsburgh Area: Hilton Garden Inn Pittsburgh/Southpointe, 1000 Corporate
Drive, Canonsburg, PA, 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
-- October 5 - Lehigh Valley: Northampton Community College “Alumni Hall, Building Room
130A-D, 3835 Green Pond Road, Bethlehem, PA, 8 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
-- October 17 - Philadelphia Area: PECO Energy – Energy Hall, 2301 Market St.,
Philadelphia, PA, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
-- October 22 - Berks County: Double Tree Hotel, 701 Penn St., Reading, PA, 7:30 a.m. – 4:15
p.m.
-- October 24 - Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Area: Mohegan Sun Conference Center, 1280
Highway 315, Wilkes Barre, PA, 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
-- November 1 - Johnstown: Holiday Inn Johnstown Downtown, 250 Market St., Johnstown,
PA, 8:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
-- November 16 - Harrisburg Area: Red Lion Inn, 4751 Lindle Rd., Harrisburg, PA, 9 a.m. – 3
p.m.
The PUC’s Be Utility Wise events are intended to help local human service agencies and
assistance organizations better understand the utility programs and services available in their
communities.
The free “train-the-trainer” events feature presentations from state agencies, local utility
companies and other financial assistance programs to share ideas.
Presenters will discuss financial assistance programs for utility customers, career tools for
job seekers, energy conservation and weatherization, protecting against utility scams and more.
For more information on consumer education resources, visit the PUC’s Consumer
Outreach and Education Services webpage.
Related Story:
PUC Seeks Comment On Alternative Ratemaking Tentative Implementation Order
[Posted: Sept. 5, 2018]
The Public Utility Commission published notice in the September 8 PA Bulletin seeking
comment on a Tentative Implementation Order for Act 58 of 2018, which provides for
alternative ratemaking for natural gas distribution, electric distribution and water/wastewater
companies.
The Commission voted 5-0 on August 23 to solicit comments on the Commission’s
proposed interpretation and implementation of the new law, which allows public utilities to
petition the PUC to consider various alternative ratemaking mechanisms as part of utilities’ base
54
rate proceedings.
Act 58 of 2018 permits utilities to seek PUC approval of alternative rates and rate
mechanisms including, but not limited to: decoupling mechanisms, performance-based rates,
formula rates, multiyear rate plans, or a combination of these alternatives.
In the Tentative Implementation Order, the PUC has proposed that the alternative
ratemaking mechanisms authorized under Act 58 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.
On June 28, 2018, Gov. Tom Wolf signed into law Act 58 of 2018, which amends
Chapter 13 of the Pennsylvania Public Utility Code – specifically, adding Section 1330, 66 Pa.
C.S. §1330 (relating to alternative ratemaking for utilities) that permits the Commission to
approve an application by a utility to establish alternative rates and rate mechanisms.
Interested parties may submit written comments on the Commission’s proposal up to 30
days from the date the Tentative Implementation Order is published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin
(October 8), and reply comments within 70 days of publication (November 17).
Written comments are to be submitted to Secretary Rosemary Chiavetta, Pennsylvania
Public Utility Commission, 400 North St., Harrisburg, PA 17120. Comments may also be filed
electronically through the PUC’s e-File System.
Click Here for a copy of the PUC’s tentative implementation order.
NewsClips:
Frazier: Repeal Of Clean Power Plan Could Mean More Pollution For PA
Kimberly-Clark Invests $150M In Chester Mill, Switches From Coal To Natural Gas
StateImpact PA Podcast: Energy, Explained, A New Podcast
Op-Ed: How More PA Residents Can Benefit From Abundant Natural Gas Supplies
Credit Downgrade Keeps Tarentum On Monthly Electric Deals
Editorial: Rewritten Climate Change Regulations Could Threaten Air Quality Progress
AP: Trump’s Pollution Rules Rollback To Hit Coal Country Hard
Utilities Reluctant To Invest In Coal Plants, Even After Trump Tries To Save Them
Nuclear Plant Closures Bring Economic Pain To Cities, Towns
Towns Prepare For Major Economic Loss As Nuclear Plants Shutdown
MIT: The Future Of Nuclear Energy In A Carbon-Constrained World
FERC Lets PJM Delay Next Capacity Auction From May To August 2019
Related Stories:
Alternative Utility Ratemaking Bill To Encourage Conservation, Infrastructure Investment
Signed By Governor
PUC Extends Comment Deadline On Proposed Policy Statement On Alternative Ratemaking
Related Story This Week:
PUC Hosts 8 ‘Be Utility Wise’ Consumer Education Events Across The State
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
Tech Startup Module In Pittsburgh Constructs First Adaptable, Energy Efficient Home
55
designs homes that can grow as the owner’s needs, family or lifestyle changes, has pre-sold its
first adaptable, energy efficient home to a customer in Pittsburgh, the company announced
Thursday.
The home, a single-story, 880 square foot, one bedroom one bathroom unit, is designed
using passive house principles and will be built in a semi-automated factory.
Module is also releasing a new line of home designs, which are priced from $150,000 -
$300,000 excluding land and site costs.
Incorporating a patent-pending wall system and design platform, Module home designs
allow residents to expand a one-bedroom starter unit into a three-bedroom house, providing just
the right amount of space at the right time.
The company has received approval to build a second home in Pittsburgh’s east end,
which it is seeking to pre-sell this fall. More information can be found on Zillow’s platform.
Groundbreaking for the first home will take place in approximately one month. Led by
Module, the project team includes Nelcon Inc, Bensonwood, and nk Architects.
“Delivering our first home to a customer will be a significant milestone for our young
company. We cannot wait to hand over the keys to a happy customer early next year,” says Brian
Gaudio, CEO of Module.
Module’s first customer is building on a vacant parcel adjacent to their current residence.
The home’s primary use will be for the customer’s parents, who were looking for a right-sized
house to spend more time with the grandchildren.
Module’s turnkey service guides customers through the entire process of building a new
home from start to finish.
The company helps customers find land and connect with a mortgage lender, manages the
local permitting and approvals process, and oversees construction of each new home.
The latest designs, now available online for purchase, feature a contemporary aesthetic,
concise floor plans, and are built to Department of Energy’s Zero Energy Ready Home
Standards.
Customers can view designs online and begin the process of building with Module by
placing a refundable $1,000 reservation.
For more information, visit the Module website.
To learn more about green innovation in the Pittsburgh Region, visit the Pittsburgh Green
Story website.
(Photo: Design for second Module home now for sale.)
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
56
The center also has been awarded the USGBC Central PA Forever Green Award for
“improving the acceptance of green” for 2018.
This project is the 16th LEED-certified project for DCNR with four more currently in the
works! Click Here to learn more about DCNR’s sustainable practices.
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
DCNR Blog, Click Here for upcoming events, Click Here to hook up with DCNR on other
social media-- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.
Related Stories:
DCNR Highlights Importance Of Fire Towers To Wildfire Detection In Monroe County
DCNR Good Natured Blog: Pursue Your Trail!
Sept. 5 Resource Newsletter Now Available From DCNR
(Reprinted from the September 5 DCNR Resource newsletter. Click Here to sign up for your own
copy.)
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
57
the state in grades 1 through 8. The deadline for entries is October 31.
“When an invasive species enters Pennsylvania, we need the help of our communities to
eradicate it,” said Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding.” This contest will educate students
about the threat posed by this invasive insect, help Pennsylvanians better identify it, encourage
discussions amongst students and their families, and provide awareness and engagement across
the state.”
The contest is open to all Pennsylvania residents in eligible grades, and entries should
include:
-- One fact about Spotted Lanternfly;
-- Artwork created by the student;
-- 11” x 17” poster, horizontally oriented;
-- Original artwork, no copies will be accepted; and
-- A complete contest submission rule taped to the back of the poster.
Entries will be judged in four divisions: first and second grade; third and fourth grade;
fifth and sixth grade; seventh and eighth grade.
The top three winning entries per grade will be featured in a calendar, and the grand prize
winner will appear on the cover.
The grand prize winner will be announced during a recognition ceremony during the
2019 Farm Show, and his or her school will win a Spring assembly featuring prizes, activities,
and a special guest.
Contestants can enter by sending their artwork to the PA Department of Agriculture Press
Office, Room 210. 2301 N. Cameron Street Harrisburg, PA 17110. All submissions must be
postmarked by October 31, 2018.
The Spotted Lanternfly is an inch-long, black, red, and, white spotted insect native to
Southeast Asia and first identified in Pennsylvania in 2014. The invasive insect feeds on
agricultural goods produced in the state, such as apples, grapes, hops, and hardwoods.
Visit the Department of Agriculture’s Lanternfly webpage for more information on the
threat posed by this invasive species.
NewsClips:
Researchers Hope To Learn What Makes Spotted Lanternflies Tick
Millersville Students: Swarming Mayflies May Be Fertilizer, Human Food Source
Dr. Doug Tallamy, LandStudies Recognize The Value Of Native Plants for Pollinators
[Posted: Sept. 4, 2018]
Penn State Extension, Tree Pittsburgh Offering 5 More Tree Tender Classes This Fall
58
your part of the forest.
Instruction is provided by DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry, in partnership with Penn State
Extension, PA Horticultural Society, and other local urban forestry experts.
Training sessions will be held--
-- October 6: Johnstown Cambria County. (Registration Opening Soon)
-- October 17: LaPlume, Lackawanna County. Click Here to register.
-- October 20: Easton, Northampton County. Click Here to register.
-- October 20: Huntingdon, Huntingdon County. Click Here to register.
-- December 1: Pittsburgh, Allegheny County (Tree Pittsburgh) Click Here to register soon.
Click Here for previously scheduled Tree Tender training sessions.
Forestry Resource Links:
Penn State Center For Private Forests
Penn State Extension Community Forests
DCNR Managing Your Woods
DCNR Community Tree Management
Pennsylvania Horticultural Society Tree Tender
Western PA Conservancy TreeVitalize Pittsburgh
NewsClips:
Researchers Hope To Learn What Makes Spotted Lanternflies Tick
DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Program Links Young Adults To The Outdoors
It’s Fungus, Not Fall That’s Causing Leaves To Drop In Western PA
Frazier: Bringing The Forest Back After Shale Gas
Forest Wildfires
AP: Trucks Abandoned As California Wildfire Shuts Down I-5
Wildfire Closes 45-Mile Stretch Of I-5 In Northern California
California Wildfires Cause $845 Million In Insurance Losses This Year So Far
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
PA Forestry Assn: Managing & Conserving Pennsylvania's Forested Waters Oct. 6, State
College
59
thePFA@paforestry.org.
For more information on programs, initiatives and how you can become involved, visit
the PA Forestry Association website.
NewsClips:
Researchers Hope To Learn What Makes Spotted Lanternflies Tick
DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Program Links Young Adults To The Outdoors
It’s Fungus, Not Fall That’s Causing Leaves To Drop In Western PA
Frazier: Bringing The Forest Back After Shale Gas
Related Stories:
New Study: Riparian Buffers Provide Over $10,000/Year/Acre In Reducing Erosion, Flooding,
Increased Water Purification, Habitat, Property Values, More
Woodland Stewardship Network Connects Neighbors And Forested Landscape In PA
Allegheny Mountain Woodland Assn. Stream Buffer Workshop Sept. 15, Cambria County
Woodland Stewardship Network Connects Neighbors And Forested Landscape In PA
Penn State Extension, Tree Pittsburgh Offering 5 More Tree Tender Classes This Fall
Buchanan Forest District Resource Center Awarded LEED Silver Certification
DCNR Highlights Importance Of Fire Towers To Wildfire Detection In Monroe County
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
Pittsburgh's Landforce 2017 Annual Report: 13,000 Hours Of Land Stewardship Work,
Constructed, Maintained 26 Miles Of Trails
60
The People Have Spoken! Landforce Winner Of Google Impact Challenge In Pittsburgh
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
61
Wildfire Closes 45-Mile Stretch Of I-5 In Northern California
California Wildfires Cause $845 Million In Insurance Losses This Year So Far
Related Stories:
Buchanan Forest District Resource Center Awarded LEED Silver Certification
DCNR Good Natured Blog: Pursue Your Trail!
Sept. 5 Resource Newsletter Now Available From DCNR
[Posted: Sept. 5, 2018]
62
Pennsylvania Trail of the Year, and a featured trail.
Trail Partners Moving Efforts Forward
DCNR helps coordinate a 20-member Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee that
represents many different types of users and stakeholders. It advises the department of the use of
state and federal trail funding.
The committee recently published its 2017 Trails Report (PDF), which shares helpful
information about trail planning, closing trail gaps to reach the goal of having a trail within 15
minutes of every Pennsylvanian, and many great accomplishments for the year.
DCNR partners with various trail organizations to help maintain all the trails across the
state. You can help care for your favorite trails. Find upcoming trail events at DCNR’s calendar.
The Path To Good Health
Not only is hitting the trail usually free, trails also have a role to plan in maintaining good
health by:
-- Providing walkable access to appropriate sites to motivate people to participate in physical
activity and to do so more frequently
-- Encouraging physical activity that can improve heart health
-- Along with parks, providing safe spaces for people to play and exercise, away from busy
streets and commercial zones
Learn More About Trails
Visit Explore PA Trails to find a trail near you that suits you! Click Here to learn more
about trail experiences in a short video.
Learn more about staying safe while hiking, Leave No Trace ethics, and ways reduce
your chances of spreading invasive species (PDF) on the trail.
There's a PA trail for everyone. Pursue your trail!
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
DCNR Blog, Click Here for upcoming events, Click Here to hook up with DCNR on other
social media-- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.
Related Stories:
DCNR Highlights Importance Of Fire Towers To Wildfire Detection In Monroe County
Buchanan Forest District Resource Center Awarded LEED Silver Certification
Sept. 5 Resource Newsletter Now Available From DCNR
NewsClips:
DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Program Links Young Adults To The Outdoors
Sept. 7 Take Five Fridays With Pam, PA Parks & Forests Foundation
State Recognizes Bike Route Through Northeast
Water Rescue Team, Firefighters Help 2 Kayakers On Kiski River
Wyoming Valley Lee Trail Repairs Shift To Kingston-Edwardsville
New Park Holds Key Lessons For Erie’s Future
Summer’s Winding Down At Presque Isle In Erie
Millsboro Captain Ready To Ply The Waters Of The Monongahela With Renovated Riverboat
Pittsburgh Paddlefish Boat Club Celebrates 15th Season
Fallingwater Was Love At First Sight For Tour Guide
Half-Ton Cast Iron Sculpture Vandalized Along Lackawanna County Trail
Somerset Officials Caution Residents After Finding Leak In High Point Lake Dam
63
High Point Lake Dam Stable After Leaks, But Inspection Continues In Somerset
High Point Lake Residents In Somerset Warned About Dam Leak
Departing Steamtown Boss: Park Positioned For Future
At Flight 93 Memorial, A Dream Is Realized
AP: Trump To Attend 9/11 Anniversary Ceremony In Pennsylvania
Legislators, Outdoors Groups Urge Renewal Of Land & Water Conservation Fund
Letter: Help Preserve Our Places Of Natural Heritage: Reauthorize Federal Land & Water Fund
(Reprinted from the September 5 DCNR Resource newsletter. Click Here to sign up for your own
copy.)
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
64
State Recognizes Bike Route Through Northeast
Water Rescue Team, Firefighters Help 2 Kayakers On Kiski River
Wyoming Valley Lee Trail Repairs Shift To Kingston-Edwardsville
Related Story:
DCNR Good Natured Blog: Pursue Your Trail!
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
65
Departing Steamtown Boss: Park Positioned For Future
At Flight 93 Memorial, A Dream Is Realized
AP: Trump To Attend 9/11 Anniversary Ceremony In Pennsylvania
Legislators, Outdoors Groups Urge Renewal Of Land & Water Conservation Fund
Letter: Help Preserve Our Places Of Natural Heritage: Reauthorize Federal Land & Water Fund
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
Western PA Conservancy Protects 377 Acres Along Bald Eagle Mountain, Centre County
66
The easement will also protect Warriors Mark Run, a tributary to Spruce Creek which
flows into the Little Juniata River and its headwater streams. This run originates on the property
and supports a population of native brook trout.
“This conservation project would not be possible without all of the partners in the region
working to ensure this land remains wild and a place for future conservation planning and
learning opportunities,” said Joan. “This land has been a big part of our lives, and it is satisfying
and special to know it will endure.”
Protecting land via conservation easements, which are permanent deed-restriction
agreements tailored to meet specific landowner needs and conservation goals, is not a foreign
concept to the Thomsons.
Before moving to Pennsylvania, they donated land to The Prairie Enthusiasts, a land trust
in the upper Midwest, which turned their donated land into a public nature center.
“Centre County is a spectacular place, with extensive forested ridges, beautiful farming
valleys and wonderful ecological resources. A donation of a conservation easement of this size
and significance is a wonderful gift from the Thomson family,” said Tom Saunders, president
and CEO of the Conservancy.
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
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.
NewsClips:
Luzerne County Farmland Preservation Reaches Milestone
Union County Takes Steps To Preserve More Farmland
88-Acre Historic Revolutionary War Site Protected In Chester County
Kummer: Friends Hospital Grounds To Be Preserved In Northeast Philly
Legislators, Outdoors Groups Urge Renewal Of Land & Water Conservation Fund
Letter: Help Preserve Our Places Of Natural Heritage: Reauthorize Federal Land & Water Fund
Related Stories:
Natural Lands, Partners Preserve 88-Acre Historic Revolutionary War Site In Chester County
49 Acres Of Land At Friends Hospital In Philadelphia Permanently Protected By Natural Lands
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
Natural Lands, Partners Preserve 88-Acre Historic Revolutionary War Site In Chester
County
67
Brandywine during the Revolutionary War.
“It’s hard to imagine such a peaceful, beautiful spot being at the epicenter of the
Revolutionary War’s longest and largest battle,” said Natural Lands President Molly Morrison.
“Natural Lands is thrilled and honored to have helped ensure this historic property will have a
future free of development.”
Straddling Birmingham and Westtown Townships, the property contains farm fields and
pasture, a stone farmhouse built in 1809, and about 30 acres of woodlands. Osborne Hill Farm
was named for former owner Samuel Osborne who purchased the property in 1727.
Osborne Hill Farm is among nearly 500 battlefield acres that have been protected within
Chester County alone. The battlefield, however, measures 35,000 acres, and encroachment by
Philadelphia area development is always a threat.
In a 2007 report to Congress on the status of Revolutionary War and War of 1812
battlefields, the National Park Service identified Brandywine as a national priority for
preservation because of its historic significance and opportunities to preserve intact battlefield
landscapes.
The conservation easement was made possible with a $1.3 million grant from the
American Battlefield Protection Program’s Battlefield Land Acquisition Grants, which are
funded through the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund and administered by the National
Park Service; American Battlefield Trust members; Chester County – Preservation Partnership
Program; Mt. Cuba Center; Department of Community and Economic Development with funds
from the Marcellus Legacy Fund; the Virginia Cretella Mars Foundation; and a donation from
the landowner.
"The American Battlefield Trust appreciates the opportunity to work with Natural Lands
and other partners to preserve Osborne Hill, from which British and German troops launched
their major attack in the Battle of Brandywine," said Trust President Jim Lighthizer. "We
applaud the landowner’s willingness to protect in perpetuity this sacred place where future
generations can understand and appreciate the sacrifices made to secure our independence."
In a joint statement, Chester County Commissioners Michelle Kichline, Kathi Cozzone,
and Terence Farrell said, “Yet again, partnership has played a great role in the preservation of
this historic landmark.
We thank Natural Lands for its leadership in pursuing the conservation easement for Osborne
Hill Farm and are pleased to be part of it.”
“It is wonderful news that the Osborne Hill property, part of the historic Brandywine
Battlefield landscape, will now be preserved forever,” said Ann Rose, president of Mt. Cuba
Center. “Mt. Cuba Center is appreciative of the work that Natural Lands has done to bring
together a variety of partners to secure this important conservation achievement.”
“One of the most enduring tributes to those who made history at Osborne Hill Farm is to
preserve its rolling hills and natural features for generations to come,” said U.S. Rep. Ryan
Costello of West Goshen Township. “This collaborative effort led by Natural Lands
demonstrates how the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund continues to deliver significant
and lasting results for Chester County. From my first day in Congress, I have strived to protect
local historic gems, irreplaceable open space, and vital watersheds through unyielding support of
the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Moments such as this remind me how fortunate I’ve
been to work side by side with Natural Lands and other conservation allies while fighting to
protect this critical federal funding source.”
68
“Saving Osborne Hill Farm is critical to preserving both our history and our land. Future
generations will now be able to experience this beautiful landmark. Natural Lands is a leader in
our regional conservation efforts, and we are immensely grateful for their decades of important
work,” said Sen. Tom Killion.
“Molly Morrison once said preserving land is like assembling a complicated puzzle.,”
said Rep. Carolyn Comitta. “I want to thank Natural Lands together with the many individuals
and non-profits, local, county, and state agencies who have devoted time and resources to add
their key piece to the preservation of this heritage landscape—beautiful historic open space
preserved for posterity.”
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Natural
Lands website. Click Here to sign up for regular updates from Natural Lands and Like them on
Facebook. Click Here to support their activities.
NewsClips:
88-Acre Historic Revolutionary War Site Protected In Chester County
Luzerne County Farmland Preservation Reaches Milestone
Union County Takes Steps To Preserve More Farmland
Kummer: Friends Hospital Grounds To Be Preserved In Northeast Philly
Legislators, Outdoors Groups Urge Renewal Of Land & Water Conservation Fund
Letter: Help Preserve Our Places Of Natural Heritage: Reauthorize Federal Land & Water Fund
Related Story:
Brandywine Conservancy Board Approves Purchase Of Brandywine Battlefield Land
Related Stories This Week:
Western PA Conservancy Protects 377 Acres Along Bald Eagle Mountain, Centre County
49 Acres Of Land At Friends Hospital In Philadelphia Permanently Protected By Natural Lands
[Posted: Sept. 4, 2018]
69
"Urban green space is essential for the health and well-being of city residents, which
makes the permanent protection of Friends Hospital’s campus all the more significant,” said
Molly Morrison, president of Natural Lands.
Joe Pyle, president of the Thomas Scattergood Behavioral Health Foundation, added,
"The Foundation is thrilled to place the property under conservation easement with Natural
Lands. We are committed to being good stewards of the land and honoring our Quaker roots by
using the property to promote healing and recovery for all."
A conservation easement is a legal agreement between a landowner and a qualified
conservation organization, such as Natural Lands, that permanently limits uses of the land in
order to protect its conservation values.
Conservation easements must provide public benefits, such as scenic views, water
quality, wildlife habitat, and historic preservation.
Funding for this project came from the Commonwealth Financing Authority with funds
from the Marcellus Legacy Fund; Department of Conservation and Natural Resources - Keystone
Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund; Virginia Cretella Mars Foundation; and the William
Penn Foundation.
Support for the ongoing stewardship of the easement including annual monitoring of the
property was provided by the Thomas Scattergood Behavioral Health Foundation.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Natural
Lands website. Click Here to sign up for regular updates from Natural Lands and Like them on
Facebook. Click Here to support their activities.
NewsClips:
Kummer: Friends Hospital Grounds To Be Preserved In Northeast Philly
Luzerne County Farmland Preservation Reaches Milestone
Union County Takes Steps To Preserve More Farmland
88-Acre Historic Revolutionary War Site Protected In Chester County
Legislators, Outdoors Groups Urge Renewal Of Land & Water Conservation Fund
Letter: Help Preserve Our Places Of Natural Heritage: Reauthorize Federal Land & Water Fund
Related Stories:
Natural Lands, Partners Preserve 88-Acre Historic Revolutionary War Site In Chester County
Western PA Conservancy Protects 377 Acres Along Bald Eagle Mountain, Centre County
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
Scenic Beauty Photo Contest Seeking Entries From Jefferson, Elk, Clarion, Forest,
Cameron Counties
70
our Scenic Beauty photo contest, pictures taken in the Pennsylvania Great Outdoors region could
win cash prizes. This is just another way for us to connect with the traveling public and to share
the many wonderful things found in the region through their eyes.”
Finalists will be posted on VisitPAGO.com with the four entries with the most votes
receiving the following: 1st place $100, 2nd place $75, 3rd place $75, and 4th place $25. Online
voting will be held December 13-19, 2018.
Winter Fund-Captivating Critters Contests
The Pennsylvania Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau will also running two related photo
contests in the winter and spring in the same counties--
-- Winter Fun: December-February with voting March 14-20, 2019
-- Captivating Critters: March-May with voting June 13-19, 2019
For more information on how to enter, visit the Scenic Beauty Photo Contest webpage.
[Posted: Sept. 4, 2018]
Fish & Boat Commission Statement On Leak In High Point Lake Dam, Somerset County
The Fish and Boat Commission Tuesday released this statement on the leak found in the
Commission-owned High Point Dam in Somerset County. The High Point Lake Dam is a
45-foot high dam that was constructed in 1965. The dam inundated the waters of Glade Run to
create a 300-acre, 37-foot deep lake.--
At approximately 7:00 p.m. on September 2nd, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission
(PFBC) staff was alerted by the Somerset County EMA that a local resident of the High Point
Lake Dam reported that they had heard a loud crash from within the dam.
A short time later, heavy flows were observed discharging from the dam's principal
spillway outlet pipe.
PFBC dispatched local law enforcement, maintenance and engineering staff to the dam
for evaluation and determined that a part of the dam's principal spillway intake structure had
suddenly failed.
The failure will result in a drawdown of the reservoir, a process that is expected to
continue gradually over the course of the next few weeks.
Although the volume of water being discharged through the dam is greater than normal,
areas downstream of the lake remain below flood levels. This includes Glade Run, McClintock
Run and the Casselman River.
PFBC staff will continue 24-hour surveillance of the dam until the situation is resolved.
If the situation escalates and the integrity of the dam is jeopardized, PFBC staff will alert
the Somerset County EMA, which will issue an alert to downstream residents.
Residents should remain cognizant of the situation, and heed any alerts issued by the
Somerset County EMA.
For those seeking information on potential flood impact in downstream areas, inundation
maps can be found at the following locations; Somerset County Emergency Management Office,
Confluence Borough Municipal Building, Addison Township Municipal Building, PA Fish and
Boat Commission Southwest Regional Office and the Fish and Boat Commission Centre Region
Office.
The Centre Regional Office is located at 595 E. Rolling Ridge Drive, Bellefonte, Centre
County. The phone number is 814-359-5142.
71
NewsClips:
Somerset Officials Caution Residents After Finding Leak In High Point Lake Dam
Leaking Somerset County Dam Put Under 24-Hour Surveillance
High Point Lake Dam Stable After Leaks, But Inspection Continues In Somerset
High Point Lake Residents In Somerset Warned About Dam Leak
[Posted: Sept. 4, 2018]
Game Commission Participating In 10 Events Around The State To Help The Public
Understand Chronic Wasting Disease In Deer
72
staff on hand to answer questions about Chronic Wasting Disease. Feel free to arrive at any time.
Marion Center Park Hall; Marion Center, Pa.
-- September 22: Chronic Wasting Disease Presentation; Jefferson County, 9 a.m. This
presentation will consist of expert speakers followed by a short question and answer session.
Jefferson County Fairgrounds; Brookville, Pa.
-- September 27: Chronic Wasting Disease Open House; Jefferson County, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
CWD open houses are designed as stations to be self-navigated at your own pace with agency
staff on hand to answer questions about Chronic Wasting Disease. Feel free to arrive at any time.
Brockway High School; Brockway, Pa.
-- October 18: Chronic Wasting Disease Presentation; Lancaster County, 6 p.m. This
presentation will consist of expert speakers followed by a short question and answer session.
(Location to be determined); Denver, PA.
Additional programs could be scheduled and, if so, they will be added to the Game
Commission’s Upcoming Events webpage.
For much more information, visit the Game Commission’s Chronic Wasting Disease
webpage.
(Photo: Current CWD management areas in PA.)
Related Story:
Game Commission: Chronic Wasting Disease In Deer An Ecological Disaster Unfolding Before
Our Eyes
Related Story This Week:
Game Commission: Chronic Wasting Disease Rules Apply To Hunters Bringing Carcass Parts
Back To PA
[Posted: Sept. 7, 2018]
Game Commission: Chronic Wasting Disease Rules Apply To Hunters Bringing Carcass
Parts Back To PA
73
from being brought back to Pennsylvania whole.
In previous hunting seasons, the prohibition applied only to deer harvested within
counties in those states where CWD has been detected.
With the change, Pennsylvanians who harvest deer anywhere in New York, Ohio,
Maryland or West Virginia either must have them processed in those states or remove the
high-risk parts before bringing the meat and other low-risk parts back into Pennsylvania.
There now are 24 states and two Canadian provinces from which high-risk cervid parts
cannot be imported into Pennsylvania.
The parts ban affects hunters who harvest deer, elk, moose, mule deer and other cervids
in: Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi,
Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South
Dakota, Texas, Utah, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming; as well as the Canadian
provinces of Alberta and Saskatchewan.
High-risk parts include: the head (including brain, tonsils, eyes and any lymph nodes);
spinal cord/backbone; spleen; skull plate with attached antlers, if visible brain or spinal cord
tissue is present; cape, if visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; upper canine teeth, if root
structure or other soft tissue is present; any object or article containing visible brain or spinal
cord tissue; unfinished taxidermy mounts; and brain-tanned hides.
Hunters who are successful in those states and provinces from which the importation of
high-risk parts into Pennsylvania is banned are allowed to import meat from any deer, elk,
moose, mule deer or caribou, so long as the backbone is not present.
Successful hunters also are allowed to bring back cleaned skull plates with attached
antlers, if no visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; tanned hide or raw hide with no visible
brain or spinal cord tissue present; capes, if no visible brain or spinal cord tissue is present; upper
canine teeth, if no root structure or other soft tissue is present; and finished taxidermy mounts.
Hunters who harvest cervids in a state or province where CWD is known to exist also
should follow instructions from that state’s wildlife agency on how and where to submit the
appropriate samples to have their animal tested.
If, after returning to Pennsylvania, a hunter is notified that his or her harvest tested
positive for CWD, the hunter is encouraged to immediately contact the Game Commission
region office that serves the county in which they reside for disposal recommendations and
assistance.
Pennsylvania first detected chronic wasting disease in 2012 at a captive deer facility in
Adams County. The disease has since been detected in free-ranging and captive deer in a few,
isolated areas of Pennsylvania.
Presently, there are three active Disease Management Areas (DMAs) within
Pennsylvania where special regulations apply to help prevent CWD from spreading to new areas.
Deer harvested within DMAs also cannot be transported whole to points outside the
DMA.
For much more information, visit the Game Commission’s Chronic Wasting Disease
webpage.
(Photo: Current CWD management areas in PA.)
Related Story:
Game Commission: Chronic Wasting Disease In Deer An Ecological Disaster Unfolding Before
Our Eyes
74
Related Story This Week:
Game Commission Participating In 10 Events Around The State To Help The Public Understand
Chronic Wasting Disease In Deer
[Posted: Sept. 5, 2018]
Wildlife For Everyone Foundation Announces Management Change, Seeks New Executive
Director
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The Wildlife for Everyone Foundation Thursday announced a change in its management. The
Foundation’s recent growth and the wish to expand beyond central Pennsylvania has necessitated
a change in its operations.
Foundation President, Jerry Regan, whose term is expiring, will be appointed to a seat on
the Board of Directors, where he will oversee and chair the new $1.8 million Wildlife Center
project, planned for groundbreaking in the summer of 2019.
He will also continue to support various committees to ensure a seamless transition to the
new management structure.
“Jerry has been an invaluable asset to the Foundation as president and committee chair
for the last two years, and we look forward to his continued involvement as a board member,”
said Russ Schleiden, chairman of the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation Board.
New Executive Director
The Executive Committee of Wildlife for Everyone Foundation is initiating a search for a
new Executive Director and will be releasing that information in the near future. “We plan to fill
that position in the next 90 days,” Schleiden advised.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Wildlife for
Everyone Foundation website.
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
Help Wanted: Headwaters Charitable Trust Intern, Process For Identifying Abandoned
Oil & Gas Wells
The Headwaters Charitable Trust, in partnership with Penn State University’s Methane and
Legacy Oil and Gas Infrastructure Program and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, is
seek candidates for a paid intern or short-term fee for service opportunity.
The candidate will document a process for identifying undocumented orphaned and
abandoned oil and gas wells in Northwest and Northcentral Pennsylvania.
Headwaters Charitable Trust is based in Curwensville, Clearfield County.
Click Here for all the details and how to apply. The deadline for applications is no later
than September 21. Questions should be directed to Janie French by sending email to:
jfrench@hwct.org or by calling 814-236-4333.
[Posted: Sept. 6, 2018]
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.
Hurdle: State Court Rejects Developer’s SLAPP Suit To Block Protest Against Development
Plan
Air
Air Pollution Emissions Over Limit At Lackawanna Power Plant In Jessup
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Frazier: Repeal Of Clean Power Plan Could Mean More Pollution For PA
Editorial: Rewritten Climate Change Regulations Could Threaten Air Quality Progress
Editorial: New Study Links Air Quality And Cognition
Awards & Recognition
Windy Heights Farm, Forejt Family Named Westmoreland Conservation Farmer Of The Year
Westmoreland Recreation Director Receives Conservation District Award
Beautification
Stroudsburg United Methodist Church Awarded Fresh Paint Days Grant
Biodiversity/Invasive Species
Researchers Hope To Learn What Makes Spotted Lanternflies Tick
Millersville Students: Swarming Mayflies May Be Fertilizer, Human Food Source
Dr. Doug Tallamy, LandStudies Recognize The Value Of Native Plants for Pollinators
Budget
Fisherman’s Luck Takes Turn For Worse With Resignation Of John Arway
Fish & Boat Commission Looks At Ways Of Addressing Budget Problems
Monroeville Residents Express Concern Over Stormwater Management Fee
School Budgets Hollowed Out By Dwindling Coal Reserves In Greene County
August State Revenues 1.2% More Than Anticipated, Year-To-Date 0.6% Above Estimates
Legislators, Outdoors Groups Urge Renewal Of Land & Water Conservation Fund
Chesapeake Bay
Washed Away? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay Restoration Gains
Dickinson Environmental Science Major Helps Restore Oyster Population In Chesapeake Bay
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
Citizen Action
Flood Aid Volunteers Tell Why They Came To Help In York County
Blair County Volunteers Help Drill, Repair Water Wells In El Salvador
Climate
Cusick: Midstate’s Heavy Summer Rainfall In Line With Climate Predictions
Cusick: Can Social Media Actually Help Curb Partisanship Around Issues Like Climate Change?
Frazier: Repeal Of Clean Power Plan Could Mean More Pollution For PA
Pittsburgh, Allegheny County Prepare For Rain, Landslides That Plagued the Region In 2018
Utilities Reluctant To Invest In Coal Plants, Even After Trump Tries To Save Them
Editorial: Rewritten Climate Change Regulations Could Threaten Air Quality Progress
Editorial: U.S. Dept. Of Defense Tackles Climate Threat
MIT: The Future Of Nuclear Energy In A Carbon-Constrained World
Installing Air Conditioning In Pittsburgh Schools Would Cost Millions
Sweltering Schools Bring Up Age-Old Infrastructure Problem In PA
School Closings, Early Dismissals Continuing Through Thursday Heat
Heat Sets Record For 3rd Day In Philly, 3rd Heat-Related Death Reported
O’Neill: Heat Dismissal? Students Must Learn To Suffer
Op-Ed: How Philly’s Overheated Schools Show Disregard For Our Students
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How Much Hotter Is Your Hometown Than When You Were Born?
AP: Trump’s Pollution Rules Rollback To Hit Coal Country Hard
Coal Mining
Kimberly-Clark Invests $150M In Chester Mill, Switches From Coal To Natural Gas
Major Anthracite Coal Mine Project To Be Financed By $1M State Grant
School Budgets Hollowed Out By Dwindling Coal Reserves In Greene County
Utilities Reluctant To Invest In Coal Plants, Even After Trump Tries To Save Them
Editorial: Market Speeds Coal’s Demise
Editorial: Rewritten Climate Change Regulations Could Threaten Air Quality Progress
AP: Trump’s Pollution Rules Rollback To Hit Coal Country Hard
Conservation Districts
Windy Heights Farm, Forejt Family Named Westmoreland Conservation Farmer Of The Year
Westmoreland Recreation Director Receives Conservation District Award
Dam Safety
Somerset Officials Caution Residents After Finding Leak In High Point Lake Dam
Leaking Somerset County Dam Put Under 24-Hour Surveillance
High Point Lake Dam Stable After Leaks, But Inspection Continues In Somerset
High Point Lake Residents In Somerset Warned About Dam Leak
Delaware River
Delaware RiverKeeper Sept. 7 RiverWatch Video Report
Drinking Water
Maykuth: PA Law Sets Off Feeding Frenzy For Public Water/Wastewater Systems, Who Pays?
Mayor Says Pittsburgh Water Authority At Financial Crossroads
Boil Water Advisories Issued For 2 Pittsburgh Neighborhoods
Editorial: Lead In Pittsburgh Water A Continuing Threat
Hurdle: EPA Urged To Set Enforceable Health Standard For PFAS
Blair County Volunteers Help Drill, Repair Water Wells In El Salvador
Kummer: NJ First State To Regulate Toxic PFNAs In Drinking Water
New Jersey Water Systems Must Start Testing For PFNA In Early 2019
Education
DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Program Links Young Adults To The Outdoors
Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Dickinson Environmental Science Major Helps Restore Oyster Population In Chesapeake Bay
Millersville Students: Swarming Mayflies May Be Fertilizer, Human Food Source
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center To Reopen Saturday After Renovations
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center Reopens
Duquesne Among 3 PA Universities To Launch STEM Fellowship Program
Emergency Response
Edinboro University To Be Recognized As StormReady
Energy
Frazier: Repeal Of Clean Power Plan Could Mean More Pollution For PA
Kimberly-Clark Invests $150M In Chester Mill, Switches From Coal To Natural Gas
StateImpact PA Podcast: Energy, Explained, A New Podcast
Op-Ed: How More PA Residents Can Benefit From Abundant Natural Gas Supplies
Credit Downgrade Keeps Tarentum On Monthly Electric Deals
78
Editorial: Rewritten Climate Change Regulations Could Threaten Air Quality Progress
AP: Trump’s Pollution Rules Rollback To Hit Coal Country Hard
Utilities Reluctant To Invest In Coal Plants, Even After Trump Tries To Save Them
Nuclear Plant Closures Bring Economic Pain To Cities, Towns
Towns Prepare For Major Economic Loss As Nuclear Plants Shutdown
MIT: The Future Of Nuclear Energy In A Carbon-Constrained World
FERC Lets PJM Delay Next Capacity Auction From May To August 2019
Farming
Windy Heights Farm, Forejt Family Named Westmoreland Conservation Farmer Of The Year
Luzerne County Farmland Preservation Reaches Milestone
Union County Takes Steps To Preserve More Farmland
Researchers Hope To Learn What Makes Spotted Lanternflies Tick
Plans Advance For Lancaster Urban Farming Initiative Greenhouse In Downtown
Dr. Doug Tallamy, LandStudies Recognize The Value Of Native Plants for Pollinators
Federal Policy
AP: Trump’s Pollution Rules Rollback To Hit Coal Country Hard
Utilities Reluctant To Invest In Coal Plants, Even After Trump Tries To Save Them
Editorial: U.S. Dept. Of Defense Tackles Climate Threat
Flooding
Pittsburgh, Allegheny County Prepare For Rain, Landslides That Plagued the Region In 2018
Gov. Wolf Gets First-Hand Look At Damage From Flooding In York, Lancaster
Cusick: Midstate’s Heavy Summer Rainfall In Line With Climate Predictions
4 Takeaways From Meteorologist Interview On Summer Of Floods, Look Ahead
Gov. Wolf Tours Areas Affected By Flash Flooding In York
FEMA To Assess York County Flood Damage Next Week
York County Residents Lose Livelihoods In Flood Disaster
This Is Far Worse Than Anything I Have Ever Seen: York County Flood Damage
York County Officials: Call 2-1-1 For Help Cleaning Up From Storm
Flood Aid Volunteers Tell Why They Came To Help In York County
York Community Rallies After Flood To Save History
Where Was The Flash Flood Warning Friday In York County?
Lancaster County Eyes Federal Funds For Repairing Flood Damage
In Flooding Aftermath, Comcast Opens WiFi Hotspots In Lancaster, York Counties
AP: Lancaster, York Counties Declare Disaster After Flooding
York County Declares Disaster After Flooding
Crable: Flash-Flooding Aftermath In Northwest Lancaster County (Photos)
Crable: Water Rescues From Friday’s Flash Flood Continue Into Saturday (Video)
Roads Washed Away By Flood Waters In York County
Homes Destroyed, Bridges, Roads Damaged After Flooding In York County
York Homeowner: Flooding Was Absolutely Terrifying
See Photos From York-Area Flooding Friday
Slow-Moving Storms Caused Flash Flooding In Central PA
Thompson: Every Road Near A Creek Is Closed, Downpours Leave Central PA A Mess
Flooding Caused Nearly 6-Hour Delay On Amtrak Between Harrisburg, Lancaster
How Much Rain Did Central PA Get?
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West Pittston Flood Mitigation Project Gets Luzerne County Approval
Editorial: Flooding Concerns In Lycoming County Underscored By This Rain-Filled Summer
Forests
Researchers Hope To Learn What Makes Spotted Lanternflies Tick
DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Program Links Young Adults To The Outdoors
It’s Fungus, Not Fall That’s Causing Leaves To Drop In Western PA
Frazier: Bringing The Forest Back After Shale Gas
Forest Wildfires
AP: Trucks Abandoned As California Wildfire Shuts Down I-5
Wildfire Closes 45-Mile Stretch Of I-5 In Northern California
California Wildfires Cause $845 Million In Insurance Losses This Year So Far
Green Infrastructure
Washed Away? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay Restoration Gains
Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Hurricanes
What Are Chances Of Hurricane Impacting Lehigh Valley Yet This Season?
Will Hurricane Florence Affect PA?
Tropical Storm Lee In 2011 Was Devastating To Central PA
Tropical Storm Gordon Extending Most Expensive Summer At Gas Pumps In 4 Years
Major Hurricane Florence Gives East Coast Reasons To Track Progress
Enemy No. 1 For Puerto Rico’s Utility: Trees
Eroding Beaches Weaken Puerto Rico’s Storm Defenses
After Maria, Farmers In Puerto Rico Build Resilience Through Sustainability
Land Conservation
Luzerne County Farmland Preservation Reaches Milestone
Union County Takes Steps To Preserve More Farmland
88-Acre Historic Revolutionary War Site Protected In Chester County
Kummer: Friends Hospital Grounds To Be Preserved In Northeast Philly
Legislators, Outdoors Groups Urge Renewal Of Land & Water Conservation Fund
Letter: Help Preserve Our Places Of Natural Heritage: Reauthorize Federal Land & Water Fund
Land Use Planning
WITF Smart Talk: What Happens When Smart Growth Policies Collide With Stakeholder
Interests?
Mine Reclamation
Trump Nominee To Head Federal Office Of Surface Mining Withdraws
Oil & Gas
Air Pollution Emissions Over Limit At Lackawanna Power Plant In Jessup
DEP Oil & Gas Program Report Details Increased Inspections, Protections
Frazier: Bringing The Forest Back After Shale Gas
$1.2M Project To Extend Gas Outside Chambersburg To Have Significant Impact
Power To Save: CNG Buses In Luzerne County
Kimberly-Clark Invests $150M In Chester Mill, Switches From Coal To Natural Gas
Op-Ed: How More PA Residents Can Benefit From Abundant Natural Gas Supplies
Maykuth: Delta Airlines Wants To Sell Stake In Trainer Refinery
Meadville High School, Middle Schools Closed Due To Natural Gas Leak, No Water
80
Tropical Storm Gordon Extending Most Expensive Summer At Gas Pumps In 4 Years
Pipelines
Hurdle: Sunoco Pipeline Leaked 33,000 Gallons Of Gasoline Into Philadelphia Creek
Kummer: Sunoco Pipeline Spilled 33,500 Gallons Of As At Darby Creek In June
Activist Study Reveals Safety Risks From Mariner East Pipelines In Delaware, Chester Counties
Crable: Lancaster Nuns Take Atlantic Sunrise Pipeline Case To U.S. Supreme Court, Plan Solar
Project
Federal Court Denies Challenge To DEP Permits For Atlantic Sunrise Pipeline
StateImpact Energy Explained Podcast: Discussion Of Mariner East 2 Pipeline Controversies
Activists Ask DEP To Reject Permits For Falcon Ethane Pipeline In Southwest PA
Letter: Williams Northeast Supply Enhancement Pipeline Does Not Threaten Environment
WITF Smart Talk: What Happens When Smart Growth Policies Collide With Stakeholder
Interests?
Radiation Protection
Nuclear Plant Closures Bring Economic Pain To Cities, Towns
Towns Prepare For Major Economic Loss As Nuclear Plants Shutdown
MIT: The Future Of Nuclear Energy In A Carbon-Constrained World
FERC Lets PJM Delay Next Capacity Auction From May To August 2019
Crable: Under Pressure, Exelon Promises to Dredge Susquehanna River Access At Peach
Bottom
Recreation
DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Program Links Young Adults To The Outdoors
Sept. 7 Take Five Fridays With Pam, PA Parks & Forests Foundation
State Recognizes Bike Route Through Northeast
Water Rescue Team, Firefighters Help 2 Kayakers On Kiski River
Wyoming Valley Lee Trail Repairs Shift To Kingston-Edwardsville
New Park Holds Key Lessons For Erie’s Future
Summer’s Winding Down At Presque Isle In Erie
Millsboro Captain Ready To Ply The Waters Of The Monongahela With Renovated Riverboat
Pittsburgh Paddlefish Boat Club Celebrates 15th Season
Fallingwater Was Love At First Sight For Tour Guide
Half-Ton Cast Iron Sculpture Vandalized Along Lackawanna County Trail
Somerset Officials Caution Residents After Finding Leak In High Point Lake Dam
Leaking Somerset County Dam Put Under 24-Hour Surveillance
High Point Lake Dam Stable After Leaks, But Inspection Continues In Somerset
High Point Lake Residents In Somerset Warned About Dam Leak
Departing Steamtown Boss: Park Positioned For Future
At Flight 93 Memorial, A Dream Is Realized
AP: Trump To Attend 9/11 Anniversary Ceremony In Pennsylvania
Legislators, Outdoors Groups Urge Renewal Of Land & Water Conservation Fund
Letter: Help Preserve Our Places Of Natural Heritage: Reauthorize Federal Land & Water Fund
Recycling/Waste
Armstrong Flooring Recycling Program Hits 100 Million Pound Milestone
Blair Multi-Municipal Group Gets Funds to Set Up Recycling Dropoff Site
Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Bash The Philly Trash Cops
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O’Neill: Talking Trash Before The Garbage Olympics In Pittsburgh
Improving The Environment One Fork At A Time
Editorial: Rules For Burning Trash, Leaves, Brush In Blair Communities Should Be Modernized
Renewable Energy
Jaramillo: Mixed Reviews For $120M Renewable Energy Plant At Philly Refinery
Stormwater
Monroeville Residents Express Concern Over Stormwater Management Fee
Wastewater Facilities
Maykuth: PA Law Sets Off Feeding Frenzy For Public Water/Wastewater Systems, Who Pays?
Watershed Protection
Washed Away? Torrential Rains Threaten Chesapeake Bay Restoration Gains
Monroeville Residents Express Concern Over Stormwater Management Fee
Biologist Composes Her Requiem Bushkill Creek As Insects Decline
Lycoming College Field Station Expands College Stream Biology Research Efforts
Delaware RiverKeeper Sept. 7 RiverWatch Video Report
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
Fisherman’s Luck Takes Turn For Worse With Resignation Of John Arway
Fish & Boat Commission Looks At Ways Of Addressing Budget Problems
Somerset Officials Caution Residents After Finding Leak In High Point Lake Dam
Leaking Somerset County Dam Put Under 24-Hour Surveillance
High Point Lake Dam Stable After Leaks, But Inspection Continues In Somerset
High Point Lake Residents In Somerset Warned About Dam Leak
Crable: Under Pressure, Exelon Promises to Dredge Susquehanna River Access At Peach
Bottom
Watch The Sky For Migrating Common Nighthawks
Piping Plovers Raised 4 Chicks On Presque Isle
Frye: An Owl Prowl, Fund Way To Add Excitement, Mystery To Evening Hike
Millersville Students: Swarming Mayflies May Be Fertilizer, Human Food Source
Sauro: Nuisance Bear Turns Into Education Tool In Cambria County
Crable: Lost New Holland Python Reunited With His Family
This Family Hunts Snapping Turtles With Their Bare Hands
Mountain Lions Are Showing Up In PA, While Unlikely, Sightings Aren’t Impossible
Lawsuit Alleges Eastern PA Man Harbored Dangerous Wolf-Dog Hybrid
Murphy: Rent A Pet? 2 Lawmakers Hope To Ban It Before It Comes Back To Bite Owners
This section lists House and Senate Committee meetings, DEP and other public hearings and
meetings and other interesting environmental events.
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NEW means new from last week. Go to the online Calendar webpage for updates.
Note: DEP published the 2018 meeting schedules for its advisory committees and boards.
September 10-- PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering Committee meeting. Room
105 Rachel Carson Building. 1:00. Click Here to register to join the meeting by webinar.
Participants also need to call in 1-650-479-3208, PASSCODE 641 463 243. Click Here for
more.
September 10-15-- NEW. Friends Of Allegheny Wilderness 10th Annual Allegheny River
Cleanup. Allegheny National Forest, Warren County.
September 11-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Phipps Garden
Center in Mellon Park, Allegheny County. 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
September 11-- NEW. West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition meeting. Irvin Park,
Irvin Park Road, Curwensville, Clearfield County. 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
September 12-- CANCELED. DEP Sewage Advisory Committee meeting. Next meeting will
be announced in the PA Bulletin. DEP Contact: Janice Vollero, 717-772-5157,
jvollero@pa.gov. (f ormal notice)
September 12-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: Tiadaghton State Forest
District, Wheeland Center, 1201 Locust St., Jersey Shore, Lycoming County. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Click Here for more.
September 12-- Get Outdoors PA. GOPA Exchange - Lancaster. Climbers Run Nature
Preserve, 226 Frogtown Road, Pequea. 8:30 to 2:30.
September 13-- Delaware River Basin Commission Meeting. RiverWinds Community Center,
1000 RiverWinds Drive, Thorofare, New Jersey. 10:30. (f ormal notice)
September 13-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Sewickley Public
Library, Allegheny County. 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
September 15-- Brodhead Watershed Association. Water Wiser Kids - What’s Under That Log?
Program. Seven Pines Natural Area, Cresco, Monroe County.
September 15-- Partnership For The Delaware Estuary. PA Coast Day - Delaware River
Festival. Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia and the Camden Adventure Aquarium. 10:00 to 4:00.
September 15-- NEW. Allegheny Mountain Woodland Association Stream Buffer Workshop.
Ebensburg Borough Meeting Room, 300 W. High Street, Ebensburg, Cambria County. 9:00 to
83
Noon.
September 16-- Harrisburg Area Bicycle Club. Three Creek Century Ride To Benefit American
Cancer Society. Starting at Penn Township Fire Department, 1750 Pine Road, Newville,
Cumberland County.
September 17-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Mt. Lebanon Public
Library, Allegheny County. 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
September 17-19-- 11th Eastern Native Grass Symposium. Erie Bayfront Convention Center.
September 18-- Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee holds a
hearing on Senate Bill 1131 (Costa-D-Allegheny) establishing the Landslide Insurance and
Assistance Program (sponsor summary). Millvale Community Center, 416 Lincoln Avenue,
Pittsburgh. 10:00.
September 18-- CANCELED. Environmental Quality Board meeting. Next scheduled meeting
is October 16. DEP Contact: Laura Edinger, 717-772-3277, ledinger@pa.gov. (f ormal notice)
September 18-- DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.
10:00. Contact: Keith Saladar, Executive Director, ksalador@pa.gov or call 717-787-8171.
September 18-- NEW. DCNR Conservation and Natural Resources Advisory Council meeting.
Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, 41 Walnut Street, Columbia, Lancaster County. 1:00.
DCNR Contact: Gretchen Leslie, 717-772-9084 or send email to: gleslie@pa.gov. (f ormal
notice)
September 18-- Public Utility Commission Transource Transmission Line Proposal Franklin
County. New Franklin Volunteer Fire Department Social Hall, 3444 Wayne Road,
Chambersburg. 1:00 and 6:00.
September 18-- Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape. 2018 Laurel Highlands Trail
Summit. Ebensburg, Cambria County. 8:30 to 4:00.
September 18-- Get Outdoors PA. GOPA Exchange - Danville. Montour Preserve, 700
Preserve Road, Danville. 8:30 to 2:30.
September 18-- PA Resources Council. Not In Philly Meet-Up To Talk Trash & Combat Litter
Event. Pipeline Philadelphia, Graham Building, Dilworth Park, 30 S 15th Street, 15th Floor,
Philadelphia. 5:30 to 7:00.
September 18-19-- PA Association Of State Floodplain Managers Annual Conference. Central
Hotel & Conference Center, Harrisburg.
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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. (f ormal
notice)
September 19-- Stroud Water Research Center. Citizen Scientists World Water Monitoring Day
Celebration. Stroud Center, 970 Spencer Road in Avondale, Chester County. 4:30 to 8:00.
September 19-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. South Park Home
Economics Building, Allegheny County. 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
September 19-- NEW. Lancaster County Graziers Group Hosts Savory Institute Founder.
Martindale Reception Center, 352 Martindale Road, Ephrata. 8:00 to 4:00.
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 20-- Public Utility Commission Transource Transmission Line Proposal York
County. Airville Volunteer Fire Department, 3576 Delta Road, Airville. 1:00 and 6:00.
September 20-- Green Building Alliance. Honoring 25 Western PA Green Building Projects -
Emerald Evening Gala. Carnegie Science Center’s PointView Hall, Pittsburgh.
September 20-- Penn State Extension: Update On Shale Gas Rule Of Capture Court Decision
Webinar. 1:00 to 2:00.
September 21-- Schuylkill Action Network. 15th Anniversary Schuylkill Action Network Bus
Tour-Schuylkill & Berks Counties. 8:30 to 4:30.
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 22-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Castle Shannon
Library, Allegheny County. 10:30 to Noon.
September 22-- PA Resources Council. Household Chemical Collection Event. South Park,
Allegheny County. 9:00 to 1:00.
September 22-- Westmoreland Land Trust. 10th Anniversary Celebration - Wide Open Spaces
Party. Land Trust’s barn headquarters, 218 Donohoe Road, Greensburg. 4:30 to 7:30.
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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 23-- Brodhead Watershed Association. East Stroudsburg University Tree Museum
Tour/Hike. Monroe County.
September 25-- NEW. Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee holds a hearing
on foreign influence on natural gas development in PA. Hearing Room 1 North Office Building.
10:00. Click Here to check to see if the hearing will be webcast live. Click Here for more.
September 25-- PA Resources Council. Recycling Awareness Workshop. Mt. Lebanon Public
Library, Allegheny County. 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
September 25-26-- Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed. 2018 Delaware River
Watershed Forum. Cape May, NJ.
September 26-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: William Penn Forest District [
LTBD ] Southeast PA. Click Here for more.
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.
September 28-- Brodhead Watershed Association. Members & Friends Celebration, Awards
Dinner. Camelback Resort’s Aquatopia in Tannersville, Monroe County.
September 29-- PA CleanWays, Vector Control Of Cumberland County Tire Collection Event.
East Pennsboro Township Public Works, 645 Tower Road in Enola. 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
NOTE: Pre-registration, Prepayment are requested.
September 29-- Gifford Pinchot’s Grey Towers. Free Ice Cream, Magic & Open House.
Milford, Pike County. 11:00 to 4:00.
October 1-2-- 2018 Eastern PA Greenways & Trails Summit. SteelStacks, 101 Founders Way in
Bethlehem.
October 1-3-- Engineers’ Society of Western PA. PA Brownfield Conference. Sands Bethlehem
Casino, Bethlehem.
October 5-- Berks Conservation District Farm Conservation Tour. Deep Roots Valley Farm,
86
1047 Irish Creek Creek Road, Mohrsville. 11:00 to 2:30.
October 5-- Alliance For The Chesapeake Bay. 2nd Annual Sportsmen’s Forum. Middle Creek
Wildlife Area, Lebanon County. 8:00 to 6:00.
October 6-- PA Resources Council. Hard-To-Recycle Collection Event. Settlers Cabin Park,
Robinson Township, Allegheny County. 9:00 to 1:00.
October 6-- NEW. PA Forestry Association Annual Conference - Managing & Conserving
Pennsylvania’s Forested Waters. Toftrees Resort, State College, Centre County.
October 7-- NEW. PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Blueberry Hill
Park, Franklin Park, Allegheny County. 10:30 to Noon.
October 10-- 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 10- DEP Hearing (If Needed) On Georgia Pacific Plant RACT II Air Quality Plan in
Sergeant Township, McKean County. DEP Northwest Regional Office, 230 Chestnut Street,
Meadville. 9:00.
October 13-- PA Resources Council. Vermicomposting Workshop. Ross Township Community
Center, Allegheny County. 12:30 to 2:00.
October 13-- PA Resources Council. Household Chemical Collection Event. Bradys Run Park,
Beaver County. 9:00 to 1:00.
October 16-- Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00.
DEP Contact: Laura Edinger, 717-772-3277, ledinger@pa.gov. (f ormal notice)
October 16-- DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.
10:00. Contact: Keith Saladar, Executive Director, ksalador@pa.gov or call 717-787-8171.
October 17-- DEP State Board For Certification of Water and Wastewater Systems Operators
meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Edgar
Chescattle, echescattie@pa.gov.
October 17-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: Buchanan State Forest District,
District Office, 25185 Great Cove Road, McConnellsburg, Fulton County. 6:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Click Here for more.
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October 17-- PA Chamber Fall Regional Environmental Conference In Mars, Butler County.
October 17-21-- Passive House Western PA. North American Passive House Network 2018
Conference. David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh.
October 18-- DEP Small Water Systems Technical Assistance Center Board meeting. DEP
Southcentral Regional Office, Susquehanna Room, 909 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg. 9:00.
DEP Contact: Dawn Hissner 717-787-9633 or send email to dhissner@pa.gov. (formal notice)
October 18-- PA State Assn. Of Township Supervisors. PA Stormwater Conference [Western].
Butler County.
October 18-- PA Resources Council. Recycling Awareness Workshop. Sewickley Public
Library, Allegheny County. 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
October 18-- NEW. Susquehanna River Basin Commission Small Water System Finances,
Funding Preparing For Emergencies, Regulatory Updates Workshop. SRBC offices, 4423 North
Front Street, Harrisburg. 8:40 to 3:15.
October 20-- Eastern PA Coalition For Abandoned Mine Reclamation. Fall Cleanup In
Centralia, Columbia County.
October 23-- DEP Climate Change Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: John Krueger, 717-783-9264, jkrueger@pa.gov. (formal notice)
October 24-- PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering Committee meeting. Room 105
Rachel Carson Building. 1:00. Click Here to register to join the meeting by webinar.
Participants also need to call in 1-650-479-3208, PASSCODE 643 952 548.
October 24-- DEP Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee meeting. 12th Floor
Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Nancy Herb, 717-783-9269,
nherb@pa.gov.
October 24-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: Clear Creek State Forest District
[LTBD ] Clarion, Forest, Jefferson, Mercer, Venango counties. Click Here for more.
October 24-25-- Penn State Extension: Biochar & Torrefied Biomass Short Course. Penn State
University Agricultural Engineering Building, Shortlidge Road, University Park.
October 30-- PA Chamber Fall Regional Environmental Conference In King of Prussia.
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October 30-31-- Northeast Recycling Council Fall Conference. Sheraton Hartford South Hotel,
Rocky Hill, Connecticut.
October 31-- DEP State Board for Certification of Sewage Enforcement Officers meeting.
Conference Room 11B, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Kristen Szwajkowski,
717-772-2186, kszwajkows@pa.gov.
November 1-2-- PA Water And Wastewater Technology Summit. Penn Stater Conference
Center Hotel, State College.
November 6-- PA Resources Council. Vermicomposting Workshop. North Park Rose Barn,
Allegheny County. 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
November 7-- 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.
November 8-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: Rothrock State Forest District,
Shaver’s Creek CFD Community Building, 8707 Firemans Park Ln, Petersburg, Huntingdon
County. 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Click Here for more.
November 8-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: Weiser State Forest District,
District Office, 16 Weiser Lane, Aristes, Columbia County. 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Click Here for
more.
November 14-- PA Resources Council. Vermicomposting Workshop. South Park Buffalo Inn,
Allegheny County. 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
November 15-- 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.
(formal notice)
November 16-- PA State Assn. Of township Supervisors. PA Stormwater Conference [Eastern].
Montgomery County.
November 20-- NEW. South Mountain Partnership Trails Workshop - Building Strong
Community Connections. Shippensburg University, Cumberland County. 8:30 to 5:00.
December 5-- 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.
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(formal notice)
December 17-- PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering Committee meeting. Room
105 Rachel Carson Building. 1:00. Click Here to register to join the meeting by webinar.
Participants also need to call in 1-650-479-3208, PASSCODE 644 895 237.
January 27-30-- Partnership For The Delaware Estuary. 2019 Delaware Estuary Science &
Environmental Summit. Cape May, NJ.
April 29 to May 2-- Center for Watershed Protection. 2019 National Watershed and Stormwater
Conference. South Carolina.
May 8-10-- PA Assn. Of Environmental Professionals. 2019 Annual Conference - Growth
Through Collaboration. State College.
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.
You can watch the Senate Floor Session and House Floor Session live online.
This section gives you a heads up on upcoming deadlines for awards and grants and other
recognition programs. NEW means new from last week.
-- 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 -----------------------
No new regulations were published this week. Pennsylvania Bulletin - September 8, 2018
Permits ------------
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Note: The Department of Environmental Protection published 43 pages of public notices related
to proposed and final permit and approval/ disapproval actions in the September 8 PA Bulletin -
pages 5611 to 5654.
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.
CLICK HERE to View or Print the entire PA Environment Digest. This Digest is 94 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.
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