PaEnvironmentDigest123013

Links for all other Standing House Committees

Senate

Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure

Community, Economic and Recreational Development

Public Health and Welfare

Judiciary

Law and Justice

Transportation

Links for all other Standing Senate Committees

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Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule

Here are the Senate and House Calendars and Committee meetings showing bills of interest as well as a list of new environmental bills introduced--

Session Schedule

Here is the latest voting session schedule for the Senate and House--

House - 2014

January 7 (Non-Voting), 13, 14, 15, 27, 28, 29

February 3, 4, 5

March 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 31

April 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 28, 29, 30

May 5, 6, 7

June 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30

Senate - 2014

January 7, 13, 14, 15, 27, 28, 29

February 3, 4, 5

March 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 31

April 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 28, 29, 30

May 5, 6, 7

June 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30

Bill Calendars

House (January 7): House Bill 302 (Moul-R-Adams) transferring $5 million to DEP for a competitive grant program to convert small mass transit bus fleets to natural gas; House Bill 303 (Moul-R-Adams) transferring $7.5 million to DEP for a competitive grant program to convert large mass transit fleets to natural gas; House Bill 304 (Marshall-R-Beaver) funding conversions of transit buses to natural gas; House Bill 306 (Pickett-R-Bradford) redirecting $5.3 million from the Alternative Fuels Incentive Fund to create the Keystone Fuel Incentive Program to fund conversions of vehicles to natural gas and provide a 10 cent per gallon biofuels production subsidy; House Bill 308 (Saylor-R-York) redirecting $6 million annually from the Clean Air Fund to finance vehicle conversions to natural gas. <> Click Here for full House Bill Calendar.

Senate (January 7): <> Click Here for full Senate Bill Calendar.

Committee Meeting Agendas This Week

House: <> Click Here for full House Committee Schedule.

Senate: <> Click Here for full Senate Committee Schedule.

Bills Pending In Key Committees

Here are links to key Standing Committees in the House and Senate and the bills pending in each--

House

Links for all other Standing House Committees

Senate

Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure

Community, Economic and Recreational Development

Public Health and Welfare

Judiciary

Law and Justice

Transportation

Links for all other Standing Senate Committees

Bills On Governor's Desk

The following bills were given final approval by the Senate and House and are now on the Governor's desk for action--

Open Space: House Bill 1523 (Toepel-R-Montgomery) further providing for open space preservation by local governments. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. It was signed into law as Act 115.

News From The Capitol

Senate Committees Set Jan. 10 Hearing On Threatened, Endangered Species Bills

The Senate Game and Fisheries Committee and Senate Republican Policy Committee are scheduled to hold a hearing on January 10 on threatened and endangered species-- Senate Bill 1047 (Scarnati-R- Jefferson) and House Bill 1576 (Pyle-R-Armstrong).

The legislation pending in the Senate and House would fundamentally change the way threatened and endangered species are designed and protected in Pennsylvania and eliminate hundreds of rare and species of special concern from evaluation during environmental permit reviews.

The bills would also set additional public review requirements for designating Wild Trout Streams.

In November the House Game and Fisheries Committee amended and reported out House Bill 1576 by a largely party-line vote. The bill has been Tabled since November 13. There has been no action on the Senate bill.

Hunting and angling groups, the Game and Fish and Boat Commissions and environmental groups have opposed the legislation.

The hearing will be held in the Eberly College of Business and Information Auditorium, 664 Pratt Dr. on the Indiana University campus in Indiana, Pa starting at 10:00 a.m.

Sen. Richard Alloway (R-Adams) serves as Majority Chair of the Game and Fisheries Committee, and Sen. Richard Kasunic (D-Somerset) serves as Minority Chair.

News From Around The State

Ohio River Asian Carp Task Force Releases Draft Management Plan For Comment

On December 10 the Ohio River Asian Carp Task Force released a draft management plan for comment outlining steps to prevent the Asian Carp from spreading up the Ohio River from its confluence with the Mississippi River to its headwaters in Pittsburgh.

The Plan involves the efforts of resource agencies in 15 states, including Illinois, Indiana, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, New York, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, and West Virginia.

In late November, tests by officials in West Virginia have confirmed DNA (eDNA) from Asian Silver Carp has been found in two water samples collected from the upper Ohio River between Wheeling, VW and Pittsburgh.

The tests found eDNA in one Pennsylvania sample taken from the Ohio River in Aliquippa, Beaver County, about six miles upstream of the confluence with the Beaver River. A second positive eDNA result was found in a West Virginia sample near Chester in Hancock County. None of the samples tested positive for bighead carp.

Researchers use eDNA analysis as a tool for the early detection of Asian carp, which include silver and bighead carp. The findings indicate the presence of genetic material left behind by the species, such as scales, excrement or mucous. But eDNA does not provide physical proof of the presence of live or dead Asian carp.

The Draft Plan

The introduction to the Plan says, “Immediate, coordinated, and systematic actions are needed to impede the continued spread of Asian carp and to minimize their impacts on aquatic resources, resource users, and economies dependent upon a health Ohio River basin ecosystem.

“The Ohio River Basin Asian Carp Management Plan will emphasize communication, research, and implementation of Asian carp removal efforts at their leading edges and where they are currently established.

“The Plan will be essential not only as management tool, but also as a notice to our congressional leadership that there is a large contingency of agencies and non-governmental organizations that are working together to address the Asian carp issues.

“The Task Force has developed an Action Plan with specific recommendations for Early Detection, Rapid Response, Prevention and Deterrence, Population Control, and Communication and Coordination to achieve long-term success.”

Click Here for a copy of the draft management plan. Comments on the Plan are due to Jeff Ross, Assistant Director Fisheries Division, Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources by February 1. Comments may be email to: jeff.ross@ky.gov or he can be contacted by calling 502-564-7109 ext. 4466.

Federal Action

In May the U.S. Senate has passed bipartisan legislation supporting the implementation of an Asian Carp management plan offered by Sen. Pat Toomey (R-PA), but the U.S. House has yet to consider similar legislation.

Impact Of Asian Carp

Dr. Tim Schaeffer, Director of Policy and Planning at the Fish and Boat Commission, told DEP’s Citizens Advisory Council last year it was not a question of if, but probably when, Asian Carp are found in Pennsylvania waters if strong steps are not taken to prevent their entry into the Commonwealth. Click Here for a copy of his presentation.

He said Asian carp have had a devastating impact in the Mississippi River system and now pose this threat to the Great Lakes basin. As an aquatic invasive species, these fish do not naturally occur in Pennsylvania waters and would only occur if transported and released.

These carp species are a threat due to their large size-- some can grow to more than 100 pounds and five feet in length, reproductive success, habitat damage and large, year-round food consumption. In additon, silver carp, when startled, can jump up to 10 feet out of the water striking boaters, causing severe injury.

Schaeffer said in rivers where Asian Carp have taken hold up to 80 percent of the biomass of the aquatic environment is made up of these invasive species which would destroy much of the progress the state and watershed groups have made in restoring Pennsylvania streams.

A video teaching people how to identify bighead and silver carp is available from the USFWS on YouTube.

Anglers and boaters are urged to contact the PFBC or WVDNR if they suspect the presence of Asian carp. Both agencies maintain a website for easy communication: PFBC Asian Carp and WVDNR Asian Carp.

Additional information is available on the national Asian carp website. More information about the Clean Your Gear educational campaign is available online.

Recycle Your Christmas Tree As You Un-Deck The Halls

As the holiday season draws to a close, you may be searching for options for how to get rid of your real Christmas tree. Luckily, there are some eco-friendly options that can reduce landfill waste, and even contribute to habitat improvement!

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, approximately 33 million real Christmas trees are sold in North America each year. Luckily, about 93 percent of those trees are recycled through more than 4,000 available recycling programs nationwide.

If you are unsure of where your nearest facility is, the Earth911.com website offers a search feature to help you find a local recycling center or organization where trees can be recycled.

A good rule of thumb is once you flip the calendar to January, start packing up the lights and ornaments and get your tree ready to recycle. Most tree recycling programs will end mid-January and you don’t want to miss the window of opportunity.

Before recycling, trees should stripped down to their original form, which means removing all the lights, ornaments and tinsel.

When choosing where to recycle your tree, be sure that it is not just going to be taken away and deposited into a landfill – thus negating the importance of recycling in the first place! In cities such as New York and Denver,

Christmas trees are mulched, and the remaining material is made available to the public free of charge. Your community may also offer to redistribute the mulch to residents, saving you money on garden supplies in the spring.

If no tree recycling facilities exist in your area, you do have some other options that you can do on your own:

— Chop it into firewood and kindling—A standard Noble Fir tree can be turned into more than 13 pounds of firewood to keep you warm this winter. The needles can be used for art projects or as mulch in your backyard.

— Improve water quality—If you have a pond or other body of water in the backyard, tossing in your Christmas tree actually helps the fish by providing shelter and nutrients. Many communities have drop-off locations near bodies of water for this purpose. If you do not officially own the body of water (such as beach-front properties), you must get permission before disposing of your tree in this way.

Information from an article by Trey Granger on Earth 911.com

(Written By: Susan Boser, Water Resources Educator, Renewable Natural Resources Team, Penn State Extension, Beaver County,, and reprinted from Penn State Extension’s Watershed Winds newsletter.)

PA Environmental Educator Award Nominations Due January 14

Each year the PA Association of Environmental Educators recognizes individuals and organizations for the contributions they make to the field of environmental education. The awards are given out at their annual conference which this year is on March 14-15 in Ligonier, PA.

Nominations are due January 14.

Awards are given out in seven categories--

-- Keystone Award: The Keystone Award is the most prestigious award. It is presented to someone who has successfully dedicated their time to advancing the quality and opportunities of environmental education in Pennsylvania.

-- Outstanding Environmental Educator: To be considered, the nominee must be "an individual who made a significant teaching contribution to the environmental education field in a formal or non-formal setting, through either curriculum development or teaching."

-- Daisy S. Klinedinst Memorial Award: The award recipient should be "an educator, new (less than five years) to the field, who is involved in environmental education and who seeks to continue to expand his/her involvement in environmental education."

-- Outstanding Environmental Education Program: This award recognizes an exemplary environmental education program which could be used as a model program.

-- Business Partner Award: This award recognizes a member of the business community that has made significant contributions to promote environmental education within the Commonwealth of PA.

-- Government Partner Award: This award recognizes a government official who serves on a local, state or national level and has demonstrated significant support for environmental education within the Commonwealth of PA.

-- Outstanding Contribution to the Environmental Field: This award is presented to someone who has contributed to environmental education in a non teaching area, such as publishing or research.

Click Here for the nomination form and more details.

Penn State Offers Free Open Online Environmental Course

You may not have heard of MOOC before, but it stands for “Massive Open Online Course.” Universities across the country are offering this free opportunity for anyone to learn from higher education.

At Penn State University you can go to the website and find what is being offered, as well as, register for MOOC classes.

On January 6 an eight week course entitled “Energy, the Environment, and Our Future” begins. The course is being taught by internationally-acclaimed researcher and award-winning Professor Richard Alley. Dr. Alley is the Evan Pugh Professor of Geosciences at Penn State University.

To take this course, all you need is an Internet connection and the time to watch lectures, read course content, complete lab assignments, and discuss some assignments with your peers. Students who successfully complete the class will receive a statement of accomplishment signed by the instructor.

Again this is a free course and your opportunity to interact with a leading expert, and other students from across the world, about energy, the environment, and our future.

(Written By: Jim Clark, Extension Educator, Water Resources, Renewable Natural Resources, Penn State Extension, McKean County, and reprinted from Penn State Extension’s Watershed Winds newsletter.)

Shell Extends Land-Option For Ethane Cracker Plant In Beaver County

Gov. Tom Corbett commented on Thursday’s announcement Horsehead Corporation has extended its land-option agreement with Shell Chemical LP for a site near Monaca, Beaver County and has contracted to begin demolishing select buildings at the site early next year.

“Pennsylvania’s world class energy industry, our skilled and productive workforce and our ideal location are attracting companies like Shell to invest in our commonwealth and create thousands of family-sustaining jobs,” Corbett said. “Today’s announcement is another positive indication for Shell’s proposed plant in Beaver County and I am committed to working in a bipartisan way to keep this multi-billion dollar project moving forward.”

Last month, Shell narrowed its short list of major capital projects in North America, following the announcement that the company will not move forward with the proposed Gulf Coast gas-to-liquids (GTL) project in Louisiana and will suspend any further work on the project.

In August, Shell announced it has secured ethane commitments and is seeking additional ethane suppliers to feed the proposed facility. Securing ethane supply is one of the key components of Shell’s ongoing site evaluation process.

“Just six years ago, Pennsylvania imported 75 percent of our natural gas needs. Today, we are competing with the Gulf Coast, a long established energy hub, for major energy capital projects,” Corbett said. “New manufacturers are arriving and building plants and companies with deep histories in the field are expanding and branching out to the energy supply chain. The potential for growth is endless and we are making Pennsylvania a key player in the conversation.”

Additional terms of the extension beyond statements provided by Horsehead and Shell were deemed confidential.

For more information, visit Shell’s U.S. Appalachian Petrochemical Project webpage.

NewsClips:

Shell, Horsehead Agree To Extension For Cracker Plant Site

Shell Takes Final Extension On PA Cracker Site

DEP Offers Rebates For Alternative Fuel Vehicles

The Department of Environmental Protection is now accepting applications for rebates under the PA Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebate Program. Applications are due by June 30. (formal notice)

The rebates available vary with the type of vehicle--

— $2,000 rebate for a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) (battery system capacity equal/greater than 10 kWh) or battery electric vehicle (EV) (battery system capacity equal/greater than 10 kWh) (does not include electric motorcycle, scooter, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or low speed electric vehicle);

— $1,000 rebate for a PHEV or EV (battery system capacity less than 10 kWh) (does not include electric motorcycle, scooter, ATV or low speed electric vehicle);

— $1,000 rebate for a natural gas fueled vehicle. OEM/certified retrofit only;

— $1,000 rebate for a propane fueled vehicles. OEM/certified retrofit only;

— $1,000 rebate for a hydrogen vehicle or fuel cell vehicle, or both; and

— $500 rebate for an electric motorcycle, scooter, ATV or other low speed electric vehicle if registered in this Commonwealth.

There are only a limited number of rebates left at $3,000. Upon payment of the first 500 rebates at $3,000, the rebate amount for PHEVs and EVs (battery system capacity equal/greater than 10 kWh) will be reduced to $2,000 for the next 500 qualified applicants or until June 30, whichever occurs first. The rebate amount offered in the future will be reassessed at that time.

To qualify for the rebate, the alternative fuel vehicle must be registered in this Commonwealth and be operated primarily within this Commonwealth. The rebate will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis in the order in which they are received.

Rebate request forms and required documentation must be submitted to the Department no later than 6 months after the vehicle is purchased.

For more information, visit the DEP PA Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebate Program webpage.

PUC Urges Customers To Call Now To Restore Utility Service, 19,653 Without Heat

The Public Utility Commission Monday released the results of its annual Cold Weather Survey, which showed that about 19,653 households will enter the winter season without heat-related utility service compared to 15,975 this time last year.

“With the coldest months of the year are still ahead, it remains critically important for consumers without heat-related utility service to learn about the options available to allow them to reconnect service,” said Commission Chairman Robert F. Powelson.

The PUC encourages consumers without utility service to know their rights and responsibilities. Consumers should obtain information about programs available to help them restore and maintain utility service. Consumers with a seriously ill resident in the household or a protection from abuse order may have additional options for service restoration.

Consumers should call their utility first to make arrangements to pay their bill. If they are unable to reach an agreement with the utility, the PUC may be able to provide assistance. The PUC can be reached toll-free at 1-800-692-7380.

In accordance with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Code, the state’s electric and natural gas distribution companies under the PUC’s jurisdiction must survey residential properties where service has been terminated in 2013 and has not been reconnected during the course of this calendar year.

The survey assesses the number of households without heat-related service entering the winter months. Some households may be without both electric and natural gas service, resulting in a double-counting of some households.

Every December, the PUC releases those cold weather survey results. As part of the survey, the utility or its representative must make four attempts to contact consumers who are known to be without heat-related utility service.

The attempts may include telephone calls, letters and personal visits to the residence and are done on different days of the week and different times of the day. If the first three contacts are unsuccessful, the PUC requests that the fourth attempt be an in-person visit to the residence.

Homes using potentially unsafe heating sources also are counted separately because the home is not relying on a central-heating system. According to the National Fire Protection Association, potentially unsafe sources of heat include kerosene heaters, kitchen stoves or ovens, electric space heaters, fireplaces and connecting extension cords to neighbors’ homes.

An additional 1,628 residences are using potentially unsafe heating sources, bringing the total homes not using a central-heating system to 21,281 according to the 2013 survey. The total number was 18,116 in 2012.

The 2013 survey results also show that as of December 16:

— 6,716 residential households remain without electric service; 12,693 residences where service was terminated now appear to be vacant; and 99 households are heating with potentially unsafe heating sources. The total electric residences without safe heating are 6,815.

— 12,937 residential households that heat with natural gas are without service; 6,070 residences where service was terminated now appear to be vacant; and 1,529 households are heating with potentially unsafe heating sources. The total natural gas residences without safe heating are 14,466.

— PGW reported that 9,049 households that heat with natural gas are without service - the highest number of all utilities. A total of 13,508 or 63 percent of the total off accounts that have no service live in the Philadelphia area.

The charts attached to the report show the number of residential properties without service for each of the major, regulated electric and natural gas distribution companies in the Commonwealth.

Prepare Now

In an October 15, 2013 letter sent to electric and natural gas utilities under its jurisdiction, the PUC asked utilities to join it in reaching out and educating consumers as part of the PUC’s “Prepare Now” initiative. In its 11th year, the message is simple: “Prepare Now” for high energy costs this winter.

Learn about changes in the law related to utility shut-offs and know your rights. Save money by learning how to conserve energy. Heat your home safely. Explore budget billing options. Look into programs that help low-income customers restore and maintain service.

Visit the PUC’s Prepare Now webpage or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380.

Heating Assistance

Every major utility offers a Customer Assistance Program, under which qualifying low-income customers pay discounted bills. Qualification in CAP is based on household size and gross household income.

Low Income Usage Reduction Programs help consumers lower the amount of electricity or natural gas used each month. The company may install energy-saving features in your home to help reduce bills. In addition, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) may have funds available to help eligible customers have service restored.

For more information, please contact your local County Assistance Office or contact the LIHEAP hotline at 1-866-857-7095. An informational brochure also is available.

NewsClips:

PUC: Over 19,000 Without Heat Service

Utility Shut-Offs Surge, Leaving Households Without Heat

Number Of Pennsylvanians Without Heat Up

LIHEAP Crisis Grants Available January 2

Philadelphia Housing Authority Recognized For Energy Efficiency

The U.S. Department of Energy and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Tuesday announced the expansion of the President’s Better Buildings Challenge to include multifamily housing.

DOE and HUD recognize the energy efficiency commitment that the Philadelphia Housing Authority is making as a Better Buildings Challenge Partner.

In his recent Climate Action Plan, President Obama called for leading multifamily housing owners to join the Better Buildings Challenge. About a quarter of U.S. households live in multifamily housing units and spend about $40 billion on energy costs each year.

Making these housing units 20 percent more energy efficient would save more than $7 billion per year and cut greenhouse gas emissions by 430 million tons.

As part of the Better Buildings Challenge, DOE and HUD are partnering with leading private and affordable buildings owners and public housing agencies to cut energy waste and help families save money.

These leaders also broadly share successful strategies that maximize energy efficiency in multifamily housing, contributing actual energy data to verify the energy savings of implemented energy upgrades.

Through the Better Buildings Challenge expansion, 50 multifamily partners – representing roughly 200,000 units and over 190 million square feet –have committed to cutting their energy use by 20 percent in 10 years.

“PHA is committed to preserving affordable housing in Philadelphia and sustainable practices –like reducing energy consumption and costs – is a key factor in helping us accomplish our mission,” said PHA President & CEO Kelvin A. Jeremiah. “I am excited to join the Better Buildings Challenge and to work with our partners at HUD and DOE to ensure that we are creating healthier, more sustainable communities for future generations.”

“By committing to the energy efficiency goals of the Better Buildings Challenge, PHA has taken a significant step towards reducing long term energy costs, supporting innovative technologies, and creating good jobs,” said HUD Secretary Shaun Donovan. “Working together, we will increase housing affordability for owners and residents and foster healthier communities and neighborhoods.”

“Partners in the Better Buildings Challenge are leading by example, demonstrating their commitment to providing more efficient and comfortable homes for their tenants that save money and energy,” said Deputy Secretary of Energy Daniel Poneman. “We applaud these partners for joining in this leadership initiative and we look forward to working with them as they make their communities more energy efficient and foster greater economic growth.”

Click Here to learn more about PHA’s Better Buildings Challenge commitment to reducing its energy intensity by 20 percent by 2020. Click Here to learn more about the Philadelphia Housing Authority.

PA Housing Finance Agency House Affordability And Rehabilitation Draft Plan Released

The PA Housing Finance Agency published notice of the 2014 draft Plan for the PA Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Program funded by Marcellus Shale drilling impact fees.

ClearWater Conservancy Recognizes Volunteers At Annual Meeting

ClearWater Conservancy in Centre County held its board election and honored its volunteers at its annual meeting November 21at Mountain View Country Club.

Incumbent Board Candidates Brad Chovitand Kathleen Yurchak were re-elected to serve from 2014-2016. Lynn Hutcheson, the PA Senior Environment Corps liaison, was elected to a one-year appointment. New candidates Steve Maruszewski and Rob Veronesi were elected to serve from 2014-2016.

(Photo: Rod Stahl of Stahl Sheaffer Engineering, Kristen Saacke Blunk, Judi Sittler, Jennifer Shuey and Ford Stryker)

The George Harvey Memorial Spring Creek Heritage Award, given jointly by ClearWater Conservancy and the Spring Creek Chapter of Trout Unlimited, was awarded to Kristen Saacke-Blunk in recognition of her 20 years of passionate, creative, and inspirational service to the Spring Creek Watershed.

The Community Conservation Commendation went to Stahl Sheaffer Engineering in recognition of their generous donation of over $50,000 of in-kind engineering and construction oversight services to the Musser Gap Greenway Project.

The Donald Hamer Leadership Award was Awarded to Ford Stryker in recognition of his representation of Penn State University on the Board of Directors for 12 years and his dedicated personal leadership on ClearWater's Executive Committee and the Otto's Golf-Fest committee.

The Barbara Fisher Volunteer of the Year Award went to our Legends of Flyfishing: Mark Belden, Joe Humphreys, Greg Hoover and the late Vance McCullough in recognition of their team effort to raise awareness, support, and money for ClearWater's work in riparian conservation and restoration.

For more information, visit the ClearWater Conservancy website.

Appalachian Trail Museum Accepting Nominations For Hall Of Fame

The Appalachian Trail Museum Society is now accepting nominations for its class of 2014 Hall of Fame to recognize those who have made a significant contribution toward establishing and maintaining the 2,185 mile footpath that passes through 14 states from Maine to Georgia.

Nominations are due February 28.

"The fourth class to the Appalachian Trail Hall of Fame will be inducted in 2014, and nominations are open for Hall of Fame nominees," said Larry Luxenberg, president of the Appalachian Trail Museum Society - the organization that oversees the Appalachian Trail Hall of Fame. "Nominees should be people who have made a significant positive contribution to the Appalachian Trail and who have unselfishly devoted their time, energy and resources toward making the Appalachian Trail a national treasure."

The 16 Hall of Fame inductees named in the first three years include Myron Avery, Gene Espy, Ed Garvey, Benton MacKaye, Arthur Perkins, Earl Shaffer, Emma "Grandma" Gatewood, David A Richie, J. Frank Schairer, Jean Stephenson, William Adams Welch, Ruth Blackburn, David Field, David Sherman, David Startzell, and Everett (Eddie) Stone. Without their efforts, Luxenberg said the Appalachian Trail probably would not even exist.

Visit the Appalachian Trail Museum Society Hall of Fame Nominations webpage for more information.

NewsClip: Appalachian Trail Museum Searches For Hall Of Famers

Opportunity To Bid On Orphan Well Plugging Projects In Washington, Armstrong

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice of an opportunity to bid on orphan gas well projects in Washington County and Armstrong counties.

Your 2 Cents: Issues On Advisory Committee Agendas

This section gives you a continuously updated thumbnail sketch of issues to be considered in upcoming advisory committee meetings where the agendas have been released.

NOTE: The Department of Environmental Protection published a schedule of 2014 advisory committee and board meetings in the December 21 PA Bulletin starting on page 7503.

January 3-- DEP informational webinar on proposed Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes. 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Click Here for more information or to register. (formal notice-PA Bulletin, page 7377)

January 7-- Environmental Quality Board hearing on Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes. Tunkhannock High School Auditorium, 135 Tiger Drive, Tunkhannock, Wyoming County. 6:00 p.m. (formal notice-PA Bulletin, page 7377)

January 8-- DEP Technical Advisory Committee on Diesel-Powered Mining Equipment meeting. Fayette County Health Center, Uniontown. 10:00.

January 9-- DEP Mining and Reclamation Advisory Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.

January 9-- Environmental Quality Board hearing on Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes. West Chester University of Pennsylvania’s Sykes Student Union Theater, 110 West Rosedale Avenue, West Chester, Chester County. 6:00 p.m. (formal notice-PA Bulletin, page 7377)

January 10-- NEW. Senate Game and Fisheries Committee and Senate Republican Policy Committee hearing on threatened and endangered species-- Senate Bill 1047 (Scarnati-R- Jefferson). Eberly College of Business and Information Auditorium, 664 Pratt Dr., Indiana University, Indiana. 10:00.

January 13-- Environmental Quality Board hearing on Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes. Pennsylvania College of Technology’s Klump Academic Center, One College Avenue, Williamsport, Lycoming County. 6:00 p.m. (formal notice-PA Bulletin, page 7377)

January 14-- DEP public hearing on proposed repeal of the portable fuel container regulation from the state Air Quality Implementation Plan. DEP Southcentral Regional Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 1:00. (formal notice)

January 15-- DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:30.

January 15-- DEP Coastal Zone Advisory Committee meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:30.

January 15-- Environmental Quality Board hearing on Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes. Meadville Area Senior High School Auditorium, 930 North Street, Meadville, Crawford County. 6:00 p.m. (formal notice-PA Bulletin, page 7377)

January 16-- Environmental Quality Board hearing on Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes. Good Hope Middle School Auditorium, 451 Skyport Road, Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County. 6:00 p.m. (formal notice-PA Bulletin, page 7377)

January 21-- Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00.

January 21-- DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 11:00.

January 21-- DEP hearing on Regional Haze State Implementation Plan revisions related to the Cheswick Power Plant, Allegheny County. DEP Southwest Regional Office, 400 Waterfront Dr., Pittsburgh. 1:00. (formal notice)

January 21-- DEP hearing on Regional Haze State Implementation Plan revisions related to the Cheswick Power Plant, Allegheny County. DEP Southcentral Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 1:00. (formal notice)

January 21-- DEP hearing on Regional Haze State Implementation Plan revisions related to the Cheswick Power Plant, Allegheny County. DEP Southeast Regional Office, 2 East Main St., Norristown. 1:00. (formal notice)

January 22-- Environmental Quality Board hearing on Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes. Washington and Jefferson College’s Rossin Campus Center / Allen Ballroom, 60 South Lincoln Street, Washington, Washington County. 6:00 p.m. (formal notice-PA Bulletin, page 7377)

January 22-- DEP Chesapeake Bay Management Team meeting. DEP Southcentral Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 9:30.

January 22-- DEP Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee meeting. 12th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.

January 23-- Environmental Quality Board hearing on Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes. Indiana University of Pennsylvania’s Convention and Athletic Complex, 711 Pratt Drive, Indiana, Indiana County. 6:00 p.m. (formal notice-PA Bulletin, page 7377)

January 23-- DEP public hearing on proposed revisions to the state Air Quality Implementation Plan for motor vehicle emissions budgets in Allentown-Bethlehem-Easton 8-hour ozone maintenance area. DEP Northeast Regional Office, 2nd Floor Little Schuylkill Room, 2 Public Square, Wilkes-Barre. 10:00. (formal notice)

Visit DEP’s new Public Participation Center for information on how you can Be Informed! and Get Involved! in DEP regulation and guidance development process.

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

DEP Calendar of Events

Grants & Awards

This section gives you a heads up on upcoming deadlines for awards and grants and other recognition programs. NEW means new from last week.

December 31-- DEP PA Sunshine Rebates (or before if funds run out)

January 6-- PA Section AWWA Student Scholarship For PA Colleges

January 6-- DEP Environmental Education Grants

January 10-- DEP Alternative Fuel Vehicle Grants

January 14-- Governor’s Awards For Environmental Excellence

January 14-- West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund

January 14-- NEW. PA Environmental Educator Award Nominations

January 15-- Sustainable Energy Fund 0% Energy Efficiency Financing

January 20--CFA Alternative And Clean Energy Program

January 20-- CFA High Performance Building Program

January 25-- Sinnemahoning Creek Watershed Grants

February 1-- Susquehanna Greenway Photo Contest

February 4-- EPA Environmental Education Grants

February 14-- PHMC Historic Preservation Local Government Grants

February 19-- PennVEST Water Infrastructure Financing

February 28-- Presidential Innovation Award For Environmental Educators

February 28-- NEW. Appalachian Trail Hall Of Fame Nominations

March 1-- SW PA Air Quality Partnership Let's Clear The Air Poster Challenge

March 3-- PHMC Keystone Historic Preservation Grants

March 5--CFA Alternative And Clean Energy Program

March 5-- CFA High Performance Building Program

April 16-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants

May 7--CFA Alternative And Clean Energy Program

May 7-- CFA High Performance Building Program

May 14-- PennVEST Water Infrastructure Financing

June 30-- NEW. DEP Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebate Program

July 7-- CFA Alternative And Clean Energy Program

July 7-- CFA High Performance Building Program

September 19--CFA Alternative And Clean Energy Program

September 19-- CFA High Performance Building Program

-- Visit the DEP Grants and Loan Programs webpage for more ideas on how to get financial assistance for environmental projects.

Top 10 Stores Of 2013, Pooling Law, Major Layoffs

Budget/Quick NewsClips

Here's a selection of NewsClips on environmental topics from around the state--

Editorial: Apollo 8’s Gift

Budget

Pennsylvania Budget Sees Big Shortfall

Transportation Bill’s Economic Impact Will Be Mixed

Editorial: Tapping Brakes On Natural Gas Giveaways

Other

Recycling Takes Guilt Out Of Christmas Trees

Christmas Offers Opportunity For Recycling

Holiday Reminder Of Electronics Recycling Law

South Abington Twp. To See Single-Stream Recycling

South Side Flats Company Accepts Foam For Recycling

Pros Weigh In On Best Way To Dispose Of Batteries

HBG Incinerator Sold, Parking Assets Leased For $400M

Finding A Solution For A Sinking Road, 200K Tires

State Program Provides Way To Safely Dispose Of Pesticides

Era Of Incandescent Bulbs Near End

Work Begins Soon On Berks Superfund Site

PUC: Over 19,000 Without Heat Service

Utility Shut-Offs Surge, Leaving Households Without Heat

Number Of Pennsylvanians Without Heat Up

LIHEAP Crisis Grants Available January 2

DEP Climate Plan Doesn’t Set Goal To Reduce Emissions

Editorial: Biofuel Foolishness

Editorial: Endangered Species Act Must Survive

Bird Enthusiasts Across NE Tally Species

Annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count Saturday

3rd Landmark Forest Hit By Invasive Pest

Asian Insect Threatens Survival Of Hemlocks

State Grants Support Phipps Conservatory Other Projects

Presque Isle, Pymatuning First Day Hikes

Webcam Captures Eagles In Nest Along Monongahela River

Appalachian Trail Museum Searches For Hall Of Famers

In Memorium: Ken Hess Game Commission

-- DEP’s NewsClips webpage - Click Here

Top 10 Stores Of 2013, Pooling Law, Major Layoffs

Marcellus Shale NewsClips

Here are NewsClips on topics related to Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling---

2013’s Ups, Downs In Drilling Boom

StateImpact: Top 10 Stories Of 2013 Part II

StateImpact: Top 10 Stories Of 2013 Part III

StateImpact: Top 10 Stories Of 2013 Part IV

Editorial: Tapping Brakes On Natural Gas Giveaways

Editorial: Use Gas Ruling For Further Improvement

Letter: Act 13 Ruling Hurts Business Climate

Op-Ed: PA Supreme Court Strikes A Blow For Environment

Grant Funding Available From Marcellus Shale Impact Fees

Shell, Horsehead Agree To Extension For Cracker Plant Site

Shell Takes Final Extension On PA Cracker Site

Unconventional Gas Wells’ Impact Increasing

5 Fire Companies Battle Blaze At Drilling Services Company

Natural Gas Fill-Ups Coming to Trucking Company

Financial/Other States

New Gas Pipeline From PA Stirs Controversy In KY

Natural Gas Lines Go Through Lives, Too

Schuylkill River Leads River Of The Year Balloting, 5 Days Remain

Flooding/Watershed NewsClips

Here are NewsClips on watershed topics from around the state--

Which Waterway Will Win River Of The Year?

Lititz To Receive $300K Grant For Watershed Improvements

Lancaster Conservation District’s McNutt Retiring, But Not Really

Editorial: Water Policy Boosts Sprawl

Hunting Clubhouse Restored For Johnstown Disaster

St. Francis Receives Dominion Grant For Watershed Center

Settlement Reached On Sewer Overcharges In HBG Debt Deal

Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits

No new regulations were published this week. Pennsylvania Bulletin - December 28, 2013

Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage

Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage

DEP Regulatory Agenda - DEP webpage

Technical Guidance & Permits

The Fish and Boat Commission published notice of changes to the Mentored Youth Fishing Day Program.

The PA Housing Finance Agency published notice of the 2014 Plan for the PA Housing Affordability and Rehabilitation Program funded by Marcellus Shale drilling impact fees.

The Governor’s Budget Office published notice of 2014 cost of living salary increases for the Governor and other cabinet officials in the December 27 PA Bulletin.

Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines - DEP webpage

Recently Closed Comment Periods For Technical Guidance - DEP webpage

Technical Guidance Recently Finalized - DEP webpage

Copies of Final Technical Guidance - DEP webpage

Visit DEP’s new Public Participation Center for information on how you can Be Informed! and Get Involved! in DEP regulation and guidance development process.

Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule

Calendar Of Events

Upcoming legislative meetings, conferences, workshops, plus links to other online calendars. Meetings are in Harrisburg unless otherwise noted. NEW means new from last week. Go to the online Calendar webpage.

Click on Agenda Released on calendar entries to see the NEW meeting agendas published this week.

NOTE: The Department of Environmental Protection published a schedule of 2014 advisory committee and board meetings in the December 21 PA Bulletin starting on page 7503.

January 2-- Agenda Released. Chesapeake Bay Commission meeting. Governor’s Reception Room, State House, Annapolis, MD. 9:00 a.m.

January 3--DEP informational webinar on proposed Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes. 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Click Here for more information or to register. (formal notice-PA Bulletin, page 7377)

January 8-- DEP Technical Advisory Committee on Diesel-Powered Mining Equipment meeting. Fayette County Health Center, Uniontown. 10:00.

January 9-- DEP Mining and Reclamation Advisory Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.

January 15-- DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:30.

January 15-- DEP Coastal Zone Advisory Committee meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:30.

January 21-- Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00.

January 21-- DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 11:00.

January 22-- DEP Chesapeake Bay Management Team meeting. DEP Southcentral Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 9:30.

January 22-- DEP Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee meeting. 12th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.

February 5-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants Workshop. Camp Hill, Prosser Hall, Camp Hill Borough Building. 9 to noon. Click Here to register.

February 6-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants Workshop. Conshohocken, Fire Academy, Montgomery County Public Safety Training Campus. 9 to noon. Click Here to register.

February 19-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants Workshop. Nanticoke, Educational Conference Center, Luzerne County Community College. 9 to noon. Click Here to register.

February 20-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants Workshop. Boalsburg, Pennsylvania Military Museum. 9 to noon. Click Here to register.

February 25-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants Workshop. Wexford, Pine Township Recreation Center. 9 to noon. Click Here to register.

February 26-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants Workshop. Clarion Clarion Holiday Inn. 9 to noon. Click Here to register.

Visit DEP’s new Public Participation Center for information on how you can Be Informed! and Get Involved! in DEP regulation and guidance development process.

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

DEP Calendar of Events

Note: The Environmental Education Workshop Calendar is no longer available from the PA Center for Environmental Education because funding for the Center was eliminated in the FY 2011-12 state budget. The PCEE website was also shutdown, but some content was moved to the PA Association of Environmental Educators' website.

You can watch the Senate Floor Session and House Floor Session live online.

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: DHess@CrisciAssociates.com.

PA Environment Digest is edited by David E. Hess, former Secretary Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, and is published as a service of Crisci Associates, a Harrisburg-based government and public affairs firm whose clients include Fortune 500 companies and non-profit organizations.

Did you know you can search 10 years of back issues of the PA Environment Digest on dozens of topics, by county and on any keyword you choose? Just click on the search page.

PA Environment Digest weekly was the winner of the PA Association of Environmental Educators' 2009 Business Partner of the Year Award.

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