PA Environment Digest

An Update On Environmental Issues In PA

Edited By: David E. Hess, Crisci Associates

Winner 2009 PAEE Business Partner Of The Year Award

Harrisburg, Pa                                                                                August 27, 2012

Video: John Dawes On $200 Million Cut To PA Federal Mine Reclamation Funding

In July when the new federal Surface Transportation Bill (HR 4348) was signed into law it included an amendment sponsored by U.S. Senator Max Baucus (D-Montana) which will reduce federal Abandoned Mine Reclamation Funding to Pennsylvania by $200 million over the next 10 years.

           John Dawes, Executive Director of the Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds, is heading up a campaign to restore reclamation funding to the state.

           In this interview he shares background on the issue and the steps being taken to reverse the loss of funding.

           Click Here to watch the video. Click here for more details on the issue.

Opinion: DEP Is Fine-Tuning Environmental Permit Process

By Mike Krancer, Secretary, Department of Environmental Protection

Gov. Tom Corbett promised to bring reform to the way government operates in Pennsylvania. Good government means the efficient delivery of government services, which includes permitting decisions by the Department of Environmental Protection.

There is no question that DEP and the public we serve saw room for improvement. Our own review confirmed it.

We have to start with insisting upon top-quality permit applications from businesses, nonprofit organizations, local governments and these groups’ consultants. That is an important basis and starting point of the governor’s recently signed executive order, upon which DEP will build the permit guarantee process.

It is an important point that much commentary on the [decision guarantee] executive order has missed. Our study of applications and permit procedures revealed that about 40 percent of permit applications submitted to DEP are deficient, meaning information important to making a decision was missing.

In addition, a former DEP secretary reported that of about 125,000 permits or authorizations issued from 1995 to 2002, less than two dozen “money-back guarantee” refunds were issued [Editor: under the original 1995 Money-Back Guarantee Permit Review Program].

So permits were being issued, eventually, but only after months or years of the merry-go-round of taking applications “off the clock” and then back “on the clock” and then back “off the clock” — until finally, they were ready for a decision to be made.  [Editor’s Note: The Rendell Administration ignored and gamed the Money-Back Permit Guarantee Program established under the Ridge Administration.  In addition, the Rendell Administration cut hundreds of positions from DEP.]

Often, DEP permit review personnel spent much time doing the work for applicants to get their applications to the “complete” stage. That process caused frustration internally and externally and, importantly, wastes the time of DEP personnel and the public we serve.

The draft permit decision guarantee policy document that will be published for public comment is being developed by DEP personnel at all levels who have done permitting work for years.

The new process will free DEP personnel from the merry-go-round and allow them to spend more of their time reviewing quality, complete permit applications and concentrate on protecting the environment. The system will work better, and the environment will be better protected.

At the same time, the process will deliver to the regulated community a more predictable and efficient manner of permit application review and decision. The draft policy, which comes from the executive order, will be built upon four core principles:

-- Complete and quality permit applications are crucial to DEP’s ability to guarantee a timely decision;

-- Every full and complete permit application will receive a thorough review in an efficient manner;

-- DEP will not issue any permit that does not meet all legal and statutory requirements to protect the environment and public health and safety; and

-- DEP will make decisions based on the law, facts and sound science.

We encourage the public and all stakeholders to give it a fair and open-minded review and offer feedback to us once it is published for public comment.

NewsClips: Op-Ed: DEP Is Fine-Tuning Permit Process

                                DEP Secretary Defends Expedited Permit Reviews

Have You Registered For Ohio River Watershed Celebration Sept. 27?

It’s that time of year again to register for the Ohio River Watershed Celebration to be held on the Three Rivers in Pittsburgh on September 27.

        This year the main cruise will feature presentations by Michael Krancer, Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection, and John Arway, Executive Director of the Fish and Boat Commission.

        Join the fun as hundreds of people interested in protecting and restoring the watersheds around Western Pennsylvania come together to network, learn new skills, share their success stories and enjoy a cruise on the Gateway Clipper Fleet leaving from Station Square in Pittsburgh.

        Online registration is available.

        Poster Contest/Cash Prizes

As in the past years, the organizers of the Celebration would like to recognize the positive efforts and impacts of small local organizations on their watershed by offering cash prizes of $500.00 and $250.00 for winning displays in each of four categories-- Community Outreach and Education, Most Innovative, Best Example of Partnership and Best Overall Display.  

These awards are for formal or informal associations, alliances, environmental groups or like-minded organization in the Ohio River Watershed.  (They do not include local, state or federal agencies or private businesses.)

The theme this year is “Our Rivers – Get to the Point” and we would like you to try to incorporate this somewhere in your display.  Tell us how you “got to the point” with your project!

If your organization would like to participate in the contest this year register for the event, check off Poster Option when you register online.

Please send an email to Sylvia Danehy at: orwc@streamrestorationinc.org and confirm that you want to enter the poster contest and then your display will be placed on the list to be judged.

Did You Know You Can Search 8 Years Of Digests On Any Topic?

Did you know you can search 8 years of back issues of the PA Environment Digest on dozens of topics, by county and on any key word you choose.  Just click on the search page.

Also take advantage of these related services from Crisci Associates--

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Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule/Bills Introduced

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--

Senate

September 24, 25

October 1, 2, 3, 15, 16, 17

November 14 (Leadership Elections)

House

September 24, 25

October  1, 2, 3, 4, 15, 16, 17, 18

November 13, 14, 19, 20

Bill Calendars

House (September 24): House Bill 1659 (Pyle-R-Armstrong) providing for a uniform permit review and consideration process within DEP;  Senate Bill 367 (D.White-R-Indiana) providing for mineral resource development on other state lands and providing for allocation of revenue;  Senate Bill 1150 (Smucker-R-Lancaster) providing for an historic preservation tax credit; Senate Bill 1480 (Corman-R-Centre) providing for the 2012-13 Capital Budget; House Resolution 438 (Cruz-D-Philadelphia) urging Philadelphia to establish a waste tire removal and disposal program; House Resolution 423 (Petri-R-Bucks) directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study state funding formulas and how they impact counties;  House Resolution 505 (Preston-D-Allegheny) disapproving the PUC regulation on natural gas competition.  <> Click Here for full House Bill Calendar.

Senate (September 24): All bills on the Senate Calendar were Tabled.  <> Click Here for full Senate Bill Calendar.

Committees

House: the Appropriations Committee holds a hearing on state and local issues related to the Shell cracker petrochemical facility in Beaver County. <>  Click Here for full House Committee Schedule.

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

Bills Introduced

The following bills of interest were introduced this week--

Emissions Inspection: House Bill 2588 (Gibbons-D-Beaver) further providing for vehicle emissions inspection exemptions.

News From The Capitol                                                                                    

Conservation Groups, Local Officials Honor Rep. Bill Adolph

Local conservation organizations and government officials gathered Thursday evening to honor Rep. Bill Adolph (R-Delaware), Majority Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, for his long-standing support of open space, parks, and trails.

Rep. Adolph recognized for his leadership in restoring funds for the Keystone Recreation, Park, and Conservation Fund in the current state budget.

(Photo: Rep. Bill Adolph; Molly Morrison, President of Natural Lands Trust; Sherri Evans-Stanton, Chair of PA Land Trust Association; Rep. Kate Harper; Rep. Joe Hackett.)

Molly Morrison, President of Natural Lands Trust, a regional land conservancy, called Adolph “a passionate advocate for the natural resources that are essential to our health and prosperity.”

“Chairman Adolph,” she continued, “understands that investing in parks and natural areas is about more than just pretty places. Green spaces and trails are proven to improve property values and save on the costs of everything from providing clean drinking water to health care. We are fortunate to have a leader in Harrisburg who knows that investing in programs like the Keystone Fund provides tangible, lasting returns for all Pennsylvanians.”

The Keystone Recreation, Park, and Conservation Fund is a state program created with bi-partisan public and legislative support in 1993. Over the past 19 years, the Fund has helped protect 120,000 acres of green space for parks, greenways, and wildlife habitat; complete over 2,600 community park improvement projects; and maintain state parks and forests that support recreation and tourism statewide.

The Keystone Fund had been targeted for elimination in early proposals for the 2013 state budget but was restored fully, thanks in large part to Chairman Adolph and others in the legislature.

Chairman Adolph said, "I sincerely appreciate this honor, and I am proud to have led the fight with my colleagues to fully restore funding to the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund - a fund which is an investment in our communities and guarantees an improvement to our economy, environment and quality of life. I believe the loss of Keystone would have been detrimental for local and state conservation efforts throughout Pennsylvania and am glad it was averted."

The reception, which took place at Natural Lands Trust’s 55-acre Hildacy Farm Preserve in Marple Township, Delaware County, drew officials from several area groups involved in open space preservation, watershed protection, and recreation.

Representatives of Townships within Chairman Adolph’s district also attended as did colleagues Rep. Kate Harper (R-Montgomery) and Rep. Joe Hackett (R-Delaware).

Springfield Township Commissioner Gina Sage expressed her community’s appreciation to Chairman Adolph: “Congratulations to Bill Adolph on this well deserved recognition. Bill, we applaud your support and advocacy of conservation funding and appreciate all that you do to protect and conserve our environment. Springfield Township has received grants used to support our dedication to conservation efforts.”

During the event, a newly-planted Blackgum tree was unveiled accompanied by a plaque acknowledging the Rep. Adolph for his work on behalf of conservation.  He was also presented with posters drawn by local children thanking him for helping to protect the things they care about – trees, butterflies, creeks, birds, and more.

For more information on the funding issue, visit the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund website.  

Rep. George: Township Supervisors Want Tougher Injection Well Standards

Rep. Camille George (D-Clearfield) Friday said that a recent letter sent to Gov. Corbett from the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors further shows the need for stronger regulations regarding deep injection wells used to dispose Marcellus shale gas drilling wastewater.

“PSATS said that deep injection wells need to be addressed in the Commonwealth,” Rep. George said.  “It specifically said we should be looking at what is happening in Ohio, which just adopted stronger regulations after several deep injection well-related earthquakes occurred around Youngstown.”

Rep. George noted that he has already introduced legislation that would address these issues in Pennsylvania, but was told his bill was not necessary in the Commonwealth.

Earlier this year, Rep. George wrote to the state Department of Environmental Protection asking for support for his House Bill 2350, the Injection Well Safe Water Act.  The bill, which provides for a two-year moratorium on the drilling of new injection wells and provides for setbacks from water supplies and geologic fault lines, contains several of the new regulations adopted by Ohio earlier this year.

Rep. George said that DEP Secretary Mike Krancer responded that he is “not convinced that deep well injection presents an issue that the Commonwealth needs to grapple with at this time.”

House Bill 2350 remains stuck in committee, but House GOP leaders could be persuaded to move the bill if they receive pressure from the public and the Corbett administration.

“It’s unfortunate that while I receive letters, emails, and phone calls every day about this issue, Sec. Krancer and Gov. Corbett feel that we don’t need to do anything,” Rep. George said.  “Now, we have PSATS writing to the governor saying we should be following Ohio’s example.

“People are worried about their water, they’re worried about earthquakes, and they’re worried about Penn’s Woods becoming the dumping ground for the gas industry,” Rep. George said.  “I’m not against the gas industry if they can create jobs and boost local economies, but we have to do this right.”

Rep. George said that means proper safeguards during the drilling process, and proper safeguards for the disposal of the drilling wastewater.

“We have approximately eight Class II deep injection wells in Pennsylvania at the moment,” Rep. George said.  “But that number is expected to go up significantly, and we need to be proactive to make sure people and their water supplies remain safe.”

While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has primary oversight of deep injection wells in Pennsylvania, those wells also are permitted by the state DEP.  Rep. George’s legislation requires stronger regulations to receive the DEP permits.

“This issue isn’t going away, and we need to take the bull by the horns,” Rep. George said.  “Support for stronger regulations is growing, and we need people to keep on pushing for action.”

Rep. George said that people should visit his website and view his page about deep injection wells.

“The louder we are, the more the Corbett administration must start listening to the people,” Rep. George said.  “Let’s make these guys take action when the House returns to session in September.”

In Pennsylvania, underground injection wells are regulated by the EPA.  Visit EPA’s Underground Injection Well webpage for more information, including the location of injection wells in the Commonwealth.

NewsClip: PA Twp. Supervisors Seek Stricter Disposal Wells Standards

Bill Seeks To Help Flood Disaster Victims

A flash flood that washes out only a small portion of a township can be just as devastating to a family or a community as a hurricane that rips through half the state, yet today's disaster assistance programs fail to recognize that fact.

To help municipalities and flood victims cope with localized disasters, Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne) is pushing a bill to set up a state disaster assistance program. The program would give state grants to victims to assist with uninsured losses caused by flash floods, fires, snowstorms, tornadoes, landslides, hazardous material spills, and other emergencies, but fall below the state's $16.5 million threshold for federal aid.

"Although judged to be 'small' by federal standards, these catastrophes wipe out homes, streets, bridges, and municipal budgets," Sen. Baker said.  "The state should play a role in helping communities recover.  The gaps are hurting people who experience tremendous loss but don't meet disaster guidelines."

Under Senate Bill 1585, state assistance would be limited to grants to help repair damage to primary residences, personal property and public facilities.  Debris removal would also be an eligible expense.

Twenty-five other states have established state disaster assistance programs, including New York, Florida, Virginia, Texas, California, and Tennessee.

Funding would come from the Johnstown Flood Tax, which was established in 1936 with the express purpose of aiding flood victims. Unspent money would be returned to the state budget.

During a September hearing hosted by the Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee, which Senator Baker chairs, leaders from the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency, the County Commissioners Association of Pennsylvania, the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors, and other local officials testified to the need for such a program, and expressed their strong support for its establishment.

NewsClip: Flood Disaster Aid Bill Aims To Close Gaps

Joint Conservation Committee Synopsis Newsletter Now Available

The August issue of the Environmental Synposis newsletter is now available from the Joint Legislative Air and Water Pollution Control and Conservation Committee.

        Topics this month include: recycling crumb rubber, basing fuel taxes on miles rather than gallons, biofuels mandates, low carbon fuel standards, investing in transportation infrastructure and more.

        Rep. Scott Hutchinson (R-Venango) serves as Chair of the Committee.

News From Around The State                                                                          

America Recycles Day Announces Registration Open For Local Events

Online registration is now open for Keep America Beautiful's America Recycles Day (November 15), the one day to educate and motivate people about the importance of recycling to our economy and for our environmental well-being.

Recognized annually, ARD celebrates the benefits of recycling while providing an educational platform that helps raise awareness about the value of reducing, reusing and recycling – every day – all throughout the year.

Online registration is now open at the America Recycles Day website for local organizers to schedule events in their communities and gain access to valuable resources to plan, promote and host an event.  

To support event organizers, there are best practices guides for hosting events from plastics bag and film recycling to tailgate recycling, activity ideas, posters (on recycled paper), banners (made from recycled plastic bottles), pencils (made from recycled newspaper), buttons (made from recycled steel) and much more.

Access to these collateral materials and other resources is available to any organization ranging from state and municipal governments to local "green teams" or scouting troops.  Many collateral materials are offered "first-come, first served," so early registrations are highly encouraged. Events can be scheduled any time during the month of November, but should be held as close to November 15 as possible.

Many more opportunities are becoming available and will be announced soon, so stay tuned. Be sure to bookmark AmericaRecyclesDay.org and "Like" our Facebook page for the latest information. We look forward to seeing the results of your local events!

America's leading companies are proud to make America Recycles Day, a national initiative of nonprofit Keep America Beautiful, possible. National sponsors to date include: American Chemistry Council, Anheuser-Busch, Glad, Johnson & Johnson, Nestle Waters North America, Owens-Illinois, PepsiCo and Waste Management.

        Keep PA Beautiful is a local affiliate of Keep America Beautiful.

PA Recycling Markets Center Launches Heenan Markets Development Award

The PA Recycling Markets Center, Inc. is pleased to announce a new award to be given annually, recognizing stellar recycling achievement and business growth impact in Pennsylvania Recycling Markets Development.

Applications are being accepted until September 26.

The new award, the “William M. Heenan, Jr., PA Recycling Markets Development Award” is named in recognition of a national recycling markets development pioneer, Bill Heenan, retired President of the Steel Recycling Institute.

Bill is a past Board Director of the PA Recycling Markets Center, Inc. from its inception in 2005, until his retirement in 2010.  Prior to 2005, Bill was instrumental in supporting the Department of Environmental Protection to launch the RMC.  

In 2004, the National Recycling Coalition named Bill national “Recycler of the Year,” for his contributions to the recycling industry.  Bill is currently enjoying a rewarding retirement with his family, and will be participating in evaluation of award applications.

The honored award recipient will be recognized at an award event to be held on October 16, 2012 in Harrisburg.  Award benefits include opportunity for national public relations exposure, sponsored by the marketing and communications firm PPO&S:

-- Recognition in media announcement(s), including distribution to over 20 national and state recycling and waste publications;

-- Invitation and interview by regional, state, and national press and media at award event; and

-- Creation and distribution of a media/promotion kit to support award achievement coverage.

Applications are available by contacting Pete Previte, RMC Markets Development Manager, by sending email to: pprevite@parmc.org or calling 717-948-6660.  

Organized as a non-profit corporation, the PA Recycling Markets Center, Inc. is the leader in developing and expanding the use of recycled materials and recycled content product markets in Pennsylvania.

The RMC is headquartered at Penn State Harrisburg with satellite offices near Pittsburgh.  The RMC is supported in part by grant funds from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

Chevron Community Days In Allegheny, Fayette Counties Cleans Up

Through funding from Chevron and the generosity of their employees volunteering with Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful and their Allegheny and Fayette affiliates, significant work was done to improve local communities at recent projects.

On August 2nd, more than 35 staff from Chevron’s Moon office converged with Allegheny CleanWays and Hollow Oak Land Trust to remove invasive species and build a woodland trail. The site, located along Hassam Road in Moon Township, is part of the Meek's Run Conservation area and is open to the public for low-impact recreation.

Over 30 Chevron employees also worked alongside county personnel, PA CleanWays of Fayette County, and Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful staff to improve and beautify Dunlap Creek Park in Uniontown on August 2nd.  

Volunteers renovated a pavilion, numerous picnic tables, a restroom facility, and a fire pit shelter by pulling hundreds of staples, repairing holes, painting, and staining and performed a general grounds litter pick-up.  Park goers will enjoy the new, clean look of this picnic and recreation site alongside the lake.

“Chevron is committed to improving the regions where our employees live and work.  Part of that commitment involves employee volunteer efforts, which is why we encourage our employees to actively support organizations that benefit local communities” said Trip Oliver, Manager of public affairs for Chevron’s Appalachian/Michigan Business Unit.  “We are proud to partner with Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful to participate in these beautification and clean-up projects.  We hope that citizens of the communities, as well as our employees, will benefit from these improved areas.”

 “Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful was pleased to be able to partner with Chevron and their employees, as well as Allegheny CleanWays, PA CleanWays of Fayette County, and the Hollow Oak Land Trust on these community projects,” said Shannon Reiter, President of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.  “The work accomplished made a significant difference and will make visiting these areas even more enjoyable.”

        Visit the Littering Is Wrong and the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful websites for more on what you can do to prevent littering and rural dumping.

Free Activities Abound During Pennsylvania Coast Day Sept. 8

Pennsylvania Coast Day, now part of the WHYY Connections Festival, will take place on September 8, from noon to 5 p.m., at Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia.

Pennsylvania Coast Day will feature a variety of free activities for families.  These include a limited number of narrated tours aboard the RiverLink Ferry.  Free kayak and swan boat excursions will also be available inside Penn’s Landing Marina.

Children will especially enjoy free face painting and appearances by Sid the Science Kid of PBS Kids.  Prizes will also be available for those who take part in a free scavenger hunt.

“Now that the Delaware River is so much cleaner than years ago, this coastline provides the perfect venue for outdoor fun in Philly,” said Lisa Wool, program director at the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary.  “Many people don’t realize how the Delaware River connects Pennsylvania to the ocean.  That’s what makes our partnership with the WHYY Connections Festival so fitting.”

Other attractions will include live music on the River Stage and discounted admission to the Independence Seaport Museum.  Visitors can also access the Schuylkill River aboard a free shuttle to and from the Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center.  The FWWIC is a free museum near Boathouse Row devoted to Philadelphia’s historic waterways.

Sponsors for this event include the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, Partnership for the Delaware Estuary, Pennsylvania Coastal Resources Management Program, and the Philadelphia Water Department.

Additional support is provided by the Independence Seaport Museum, RiverLink Ferry System, and WHYY.

For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Coast Day webpage or call (800) 445-4935, extension 112.

DEP Awards Coastal Zone Grants, New Applications Due October 15

The Department of Environmental Protection has awarded more than $900,000 in annual coastal zone management grants to organizations dedicated to protecting and preserving Pennsylvania's coastal zones along Lake Erie and the Delaware Estuary.

Non-profit organizations, schools and universities, local government organizations, authorities and state agencies are encouraged to apply for the 2013 grants which are due October 15.

Coastal zone management grants support programs that measure the impact of various pollution sources; improve public access; preserve habitats; and educate the public about the benefits of the state's coastal zones.

"The coastal waters of the Delaware Estuary and Lake Erie are two of Pennsylvania's many ecological assets," DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said. "We are committed to protecting these assets, and the grants will enhance our ongoing efforts to maintain our coastal waters."

The annual grants, largely funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, were awarded to 26 non-profit and government organizations in counties that border Pennsylvania's coastal zones or have a direct impact on water quality in those areas.

NOAA is a federal agency under the Department of Commerce with programs in each state that work to inform residents of the changing impacts of weather and water resources. In Pennsylvania, those programs include the National Ocean Service and National Weather Service.

Coastal zones and adjacent shore land face increasing pressure from development, erosion, biodiversity losses and pollution. Pennsylvania's two coastal areas are a 112-mile stretch along the Delaware Estuary and 76 miles along Lake Erie.

The Delaware Estuary coastal zone is in Bucks, Delaware and Philadelphia counties and contains islands, marshes and the shore lands of tributaries that are affected by ocean tides. The Delaware Estuary is considered one of the largest freshwater ports in the world.

The Lake Erie coastal zone is in Erie County and includes several major tributaries' shorelines. The zone extends 3.6 miles inland on the eastern side and about 800 feet on the western side of the City of Erie, all to the middle of the lake, which is the Canadian boundary.

A list of grants awarded is available online.

For more information, visit DEP’s Coastal Zone Management Grants webpage.

DEP Invites Comments On TMDLs In Somerset, Cambria Counties

The Department of Environmental Protection invited comments on a proposed Total Maximum Daily Load Plan for Laurel Hill Creek Watershed in Somerset County and Slate Lick Run Watershed in Cambria County (PA Bulletin page 5591).

        Copies are available at the DEP TMDL webpage.

NRCS Accepting Applications For 2013 Farm Conservation Programs

The USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service is accepting applications for Fiscal Year 2013 financial assistance to help implement conservation practices that improve natural resources on farms, forestland, and wetland areas throughout Pennsylvania.

The deadline to submit applications October 19. Applications received after that date will be accepted and considered for funding if funds are available after first cycle applications are processed.

While the 2012 Farm Bill has not yet been approved, and it is not known if a short-term continuation of the 2008 Farm Bill will be approved, NRCS is making contingency plans to continue to work with farmers and landowners who want to implement conservation practices.

Based on proposed legislation, it appears that the same types of conservation practices that are currently available for assistance will continue to be available. The name of the program that provides funding is subject to change depending on legislation.

Practices that reduce soil erosion and nutrient loss on cropland; help farmers manage manure and nutrients associated with livestock production; help forest land owners better manage woodlands; improve wildlife habitat, or improve grazing systems are anticipated to continue to be eligible for funding assistance. Individual practices that have been historically popular include: waste storage facilities, grass waterways, no-till, cover crops, streamside buffers, prescribed grazing, feed management, nutrient management, and forest stand improvement.

Applicants can request funding through the same programs that have been available through the current 2008 Farm Bill, and if changes are made as a result of the 2012 Farm Bill, NRCS will transfer those applications to the appropriate program for consideration.

Applicants do need to specify what they are requesting assistance for at the time they are filing their application.

Special Initiatives

Some special initiatives expected to again be available for 2013 include habitat improvement for the Eastern Bog Turtle, the Eastern Massasauga Rattlesnake and for the Golden-Winged Warbler; farmstead energy audits, seasonal high tunnels, and installation of conservation practices to benefit organic farming operations or those transitioning to organic.

Incentive Payments

The Conservation Stewardship Program offers incentive payments for producers and forestland owners who are practicing good conservation measures and are interested in improving and adding practices to enhance their conservation efforts.

The application deadline for the CSP ranking is also October 19th.

To take advantage of our technical assistance and expertise or federally funded conservation on your farm or land, please contact your local USDA NRCS Field Office, or visit the NRCS-PA website for applications and program information.

Manure Management Planning Workshops Set For Cumberland County

Grab a sandwich and let’s talk manure!  Join us for the first of two Whine, Cheese and Mud: Horse Owners’ Socials, on August 30, from 6:00 to 8:30 pm, at Rendezvous Run Farm, 806 Alexander Spring Road in Carlisle.

The workshops are intended to answer questions from horse owners and operators about Pennsylvania’s manure management laws, which apply to all livestock including equine and small farm operations. The events are free to attend, but pre-registration is requested.

If you keep any manure-producing animals, even one horse in your backyard, you are now required to have a manure management plan in Pennsylvania. But that doesn’t mean it has to be a difficult task.

Along with our partners, the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay will be hosting the first workshop on August 30, illustrating manure “Best Management Practices” or BMPs and documenting such processes in a manure management plan.

“We’ve organized these workshops to be laid back, social and informal,” said Donna Morelli, Pennsylvania Director for the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, who is also an equine enthusiast. “It’s an overview of the new law and how you can help protect water quality—but it’s meant to be fun—and informative.”

Rendezvous Run Farm was chosen as a workshop site because the family recently completed the process of developing a plan for their operation. They worked with the Cumberland County Conservation District and the local USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service technical specialist on their plan and qualified for various financial incentive programs to help pay for practices installed in their pastures.

Like many small farm operators, the owners work full time off the farm as well as operate a horse boarding and training business.

“We have a small acreage property and little time,” said Lorelei Wilson Coplen. “We want to maximize our use of the land and still make it easy to manage. Working with helpful experts introduced me to the requirements as well as some interesting ideas to improve my operation.”

Online registration is available for the August 30 workshop.  For more information, contact: Donna Morelli by calling 717- 737-8622 or send email to: dmorelli@allianceforthebay.org.

2nd Workshop

The second in this casual workshop series will be held on September 13 from 10:30 to 2:00 p.m. at Wilson College’s Equestrian Center in Chambersburg that houses up to 70 horses, one of Pennsylvania’s few equine “Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations” or CAFOs.

Because the Equestrian Center is such a large operation, it has been regulated as a CAFO for a number of years. While very different than many of the small operations targeted by the new regulations, it is a good place to see BMPs at work.

Both events will illustrate manure BMPs, such as not applying manure to a field within 100 feet of a stream, managing pastures for water quality and equine health-and also how to work through developing a manure management plan. A tour of both farms will be featured, pointing out practices that they are already using.

For more information, contact: Donna Morelli by calling 717- 737-8622 or send email to: dmorelli@allianceforthebay.org.

Manure Plan Workshops

For those equine owners who want to skip the overview and get right down to meeting the regulatory requirement on their farm, the Cumberland County Conservation District is holding a Manure Management Plan writing workshop on September 11 and 19.

You can get hands-on help writing your plan during that event. Please contact the Cumberland County Conservation District directly for more information on the plan writing workshop.

For more information, contact Kristen Kitchen by calling 717-240-7812 or send email to: kkitchen@ccpa.net.

The social hours and workshops are being sponsored by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay in partnership with the Capital Area Resource Conservation & Development Council, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the Cumberland & Franklin County Conservation Districts.

Scholarships Available For Sept. 28-30 Chesapeake Watershed Forum

Scholarships are available for Pennsylvania residents who would like to attend the 2012 Chesapeake Watershed Forum in Shepherdstown, WV – September 28-30.

Why should I attend this event you may ask? Here are 5 good reasons…

5) Yes believe it or not and whether you like it or not, the watershed you live and work in is part of the Chesapeake Bay (unless you live in Pittsburgh or Philadelphia areas but you can still attend);

4) Fabulous fun and food at the National Training Conservation Center. Need a break from the ordinary then come on down;

3) Great opportunity to network with professionals and representatives from around the Bay watershed and beyond. A poster session will be held Saturday night and you will be able to view and interact with the authors of these posters describing Chesapeake Bay watershed projects, programs, and activities, and to vote for the Best Poster Award;

2) Learn the latest concerning WIP, TMDLs, WARPT, UTC, EPA, CV, UDA, LID, MICKEY MOUSE, etc, oops well whatever come and learn what and how all these and other acronyms (besides Mickey) related to the important work you are doing in your local watershed; AND

1) Some of the workshops will have a local interest such as Volunteer-Based Marcellus Monitoring; River Towns; Getting Ahead of the Curve (highlighting two case-study campaigns of the Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper) and more.

Who do I contact?  Lou Etgen by sending email to: letgen@allianceforthebay.org before the August 30 deadline.

For more information, visit the Chesapeake Watershed Forum webpage.

Pennsylvania Preserves 2,358 Additional Acres Of Farmland

The Pennsylvania Agricultural Land Preservation Board Thursday protected an additional 2,358 acres on 27 farms from development through the state’s nationally recognized farmland preservation program.

The board preserved farms in Allegheny, Berks, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lawrence, Lehigh, Luzerne, Lycoming, Monroe, Montgomery and Tioga counties.

Since the program began in 1988, state, county and local governments have invested nearly $1.2 billion to safeguard 465,953 acres on 4,320 farms in 57 counties for future agricultural production.

“Agriculture generates $5.7 billion in annual cash receipts, translating into an estimated $57 billion in total statewide economic impact,” said Agriculture Secretary George Greig. “Preserving farmland is a key component of helping Pennsylvania agriculture remain strong. By enrolling in the program, our producers are ensuring future generations can continue to farm.”

The state’s farmland preservation efforts work through the Pennsylvania Agricultural Conservation Easement Purchase Program to help slow the loss of prime farmland to non-agricultural uses.

The program enables state, county and local governments to purchase conservation easements, also called development rights, from owners of quality farmland. In some cases, the federal Farm and Ranchlands Protection Program provides additional assistance.

After the meeting, state board review appraiser Brian Pedrick led a roundtable discussion about farm value trends influenced by the economy and shale exploration. He also answered questions about appraisal reports.

For more information, visit Agriculture’s Farmland Preservation webpage.

Floodplain Management Seminar, Experience A Town At Risk,  Sept. 25 In York

“Experience a Town At Risk” floodplain management seminar will be held on September 25 at 10:00 a.m. at the York Township Building, Dallastown, York County.

        The objective of the seminar is to familiarize attendees with the simulation and stimulate discussion and thought on building a more resilient community through the wise use of mitigation techniques and sound floodplain management practices through a computer simulation called FloodManager.

FloodManager was conceived to teach decision-makers the primary floodplain management principles they can apply to their community to increase resilience against flood disasters and to guide and steward development in their community in a manner that provides the most benefits while adhering to the tenets and practices of No Adverse Impact.

Economic development via property and sales tax revenues is a community’s lifeblood, for both individuals and local government, so floodplains and other critical resource areas continue to be developed, but without the long-term foresight of knowing and planning for the consequences.

FloodManager walks local decision-makers through various options regarding the use and development of floodplains as they grow a typical town. Then, after a selected period of time and exposure to random flood events, the consequences of those decisions can be viewed and analyzed.

The ASFPM Foundation raised $15,000 to develop Version 3.0 of FloodManager, adding several avatar characters to explain the game and enhance the interactive experience. The

The seminar will be facilitated by Mr. Dale Lehman, ASFPM Foundation Board Member, assisted by Mr. John Hoffman.

The simulation offers the possibility for some fun while learning important techniques for wise growth and flood risk mitigation. Please come and enjoy the experience!

For more information call 717-741-3861.

EPA Brownfields Grant Awarded To Turtle Creek Valley COG

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Tuesday announced a $600,000 Brownfields Coalition Assessment Grant to the Turtle Creek Valley Council of Governments to identify and assess potentially contaminated sites in southeast Allegheny County for cleanup and redevelopment.

The Turtle Creek Valley Council of Governments received the EPA grant on behalf of its member municipalities and other local governments that make up the Twin Rivers Council of Governments and Steel Valley Council of Governments.

The funding will be used to inventory potential brownfields sites in all 41 municipalities, and further assess about 25 sites for possible petroleum and hazardous waste contamination.

“EPA’s Brownfields program is empowering communities to initiate first steps in cleaning up vacant properties so they can be put back to beneficial use,” said EPA Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin. “We commend these local governments for securing federal funding that when leveraged with other financial investments will improve their communities’ environmental health and strengthen local economies.”

Regional Administrator Garvin congratulated the grant recipients at a press conference at the former U.S. Steel Slag Dump in Penn Hills.

Since 1998 more than $18.3 billion has been spent to clean up and redevelop brownfields properties as a result of EPA grant funding and efforts of recipients to work with public and private sources to leverage dollars. As of August 2012, more than 18,000 properties have been assessed and more than 700 have been cleaned up.

EPA’s brownfields program encourages redevelopment of America’s estimated 450,000 abandoned and contaminated waste sites.

For more information, visit EPA’s Environmental Assessment Grants webpage.

Governor's Manufacturing Council Issues Report, Calls For State Energy Plan

Gov. Tom Corbett Tuesday joined manufacturing leaders to announce the findings and recommendations of his Manufacturing Advisory Council during a visit to Westport Axle in the Lehigh Valley.

        One of the recommendations in the report was to develop a statewide Pennsylvania Energy Plan to take advantage of the state’s Marcellus Shale natural gas reserves.  In July, the Department of Environmental Protection began the process of soliciting proposals for a comprehensive energy analysis to be completed by December 31.

“Manufacturing adds more than $70 billion in value each year to our state’s economy and employs more than 570,000 Pennsylvanians,” said Corbett. “Creating a business climate where manufacturers like Westport Axle can prosper will result in a growing economy and more jobs for our citizens. The company we are visiting today will be adding more than 500 new jobs.”

The 24-member Governor’s Manufacturing Advisory Council, or GMAC, led by the Team PA Foundation, sent its report to Corbett and the General Assembly outlining a list of 15 key recommendations it believes will help Pennsylvania remain competitive in today’s global economy.

The GMAC panel, co-chaired by Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary C. Alan Walker and Carlos Cardoso, chairman, president and CEO of Kennametal Inc., gathered information about challenges facing the industry from a variety of experts and manufacturers. The council conducted meetings over a six-month period starting in January.

“Gov. Corbett tasked the council with tackling the issues manufacturers know hinder their ability to grow and pose the biggest threat to a strong manufacturing sector,” said Cardoso. “The group employed a common-sense approach to address manufacturing challenges in a fair and practical way.”

The council consisted of 23 members from a cross-section of manufacturing interests, including heavy machinery, minerals, pharmaceuticals, plastics, steel and textiles. The council also includes three members of manufacturing trade associations and one from the Industrial Resource Center. Team Pennsylvania Foundation funded the council and no taxpayer dollars were used to support this initiative.

“My goal is straightforward; a healthy economy and a job for every Pennsylvanian that wants one,” Corbett said. “This report provides a solid roadmap for us to work together to achieve that goal in the manufacturing sector.”

Energy Plan

The report said, “Domestic energy production poses a unique multifaceted opportunity for many Pennsylvania manufacturers.  In particular, the shale gas plays have created a unique series of new market opportunities that may provide more growth potential than just a stable low-cost energy.   Local sources of raw materials for plastics and petrochemical related industries, and a growing new customer base of energy related industries provide opportunities for manufacturers from nearly all industries.  Manufacturers are also the largest consumers of energy, which accounts for one of, and in some cases the, largest operating expenses.  The energy used in manufacturing processes is used to produce products that fuel economic growth and job creation.  

“Pennsylvania’s natural gas reserves offer great potential, but there are several barriers for small- and medium-sized manufacturers to enter that market.  Action is needed both at the public and private levels to seize new market opportunities as well as leverage the opportunities from the natural gas boom.”

Specifically, the report recommended, “Developing and implementing a strong statewide energy plan will provide a roadmap for energy independence and economic competitiveness that is critical to growth in the manufacturing sector.”  

        Actions to support this objective outlined in the report were--

-- Include policies that are balanced and inclusive of diverse sources of energy, recognizing both a market-based approach as well as government’s role in long-term planning while ensuring reliable energy for manufacturers in both rural and urban locations.

-- Promote the state’s energy resources with a focus on job creation and competitiveness for Pennsylvania-based businesses.  A goal should be to have Pennsylvania energy costs be the lowest and most stable in the United States.

-- In partnership with the natural gas industry develop combined heat and power (CHP) projects to benefit manufacturers.

-- Explore legislation to create a shale gas power authority (i.e. Recharge NY) to coordinate policy and regulation.

-- Coordinate natural gas supply chain development activities and encourage partnerships with producers, associations, economic development entities and government to increase use of Pennsylvania-based suppliers.  

-- Invest in maintaining and modernizing Pennsylvania’s energy infrastructure.

-- For consistency and cost-effective compliance, any state energy-related mandates should not exceed federal mandates.

        The report also called for the support of House Bill 1349 (Pickett-R-Susquehanna) requiring an impact statement on small business and House Bill 2022 (Peifer-R-Monroe) creating a Business Permitting Portal.

The full report is available online.

NewsClips: Lack Of Skilled Workers Top Concern Of Corbett Panel

                    Corbett Panel Recommends Tax Cuts For Manufacturers

                    PA Panel Offers Advice For Industry

                    Corbett: Putting PA To Work Making Things

PPL Education Program For Teachers Earns Recognition

PPL’s Susquehanna power plant has offered a weeklong program for teachers about nuclear energy for three decades, earning accolades from legislators and industry organizations.

Rep. Karen Boback (R-Columbia) and Sen. Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne) each recognized PPL’s Nuclear Energy Seminar for Teachers for 30 years of providing educators with an in-depth view of nuclear energy that they have been able to share with hundreds of students.

The American Nuclear Society also recognized the long-term benefits of educating teachers about the electric industry with a plaque presented to Joe Scopelliti, Susquehanna community relations manager, who has been involved with the program since its early days.

The Nuclear Energy Institute also plans to feature PPL Susquehanna’s NEST program in publications and on its Facebook site.

“We’re honored to have received so much attention for our program that helps teachers provide accurate and balanced information about nuclear energy,” said Scopelliti, who accepted the awards on behalf of the PPL employees who have taught the seminar over the years. “We also appreciate the valued expertise of Dr. David Simpson from Bloomsburg University who helps organize and teach the course.”

NEST is a five-day course offered each summer for teachers of students in Grades K-12.Experts from the Susquehanna power plant and Bloomsburg University provide educators with objective, up-to-date information about the fundamentals of nuclear power, emerging use of nuclear isotopes in the medical field, and the safe and secure operation of PPL’s Susquehanna nuclear power plant.

Activities include experiments and hands-on activities that can be easily transferred to the classroom as well as a plant perimeter tour and visits to various buildings including the plant’s control room simulator and environmental lab.

“The teachers expressed their appreciation for learning more about this important industry and how they can share the benefits and challenges with their students,” said Alana Roberts, PPL community affairs specialist and program coordinator.

Teachers from around the state have been able to meet continuing education requirements at the Susquehanna Energy Information Center through programs such as NEST and Teaching Environmental Awareness workshops.

To find out more about programs, visit PPL Preserves webpage and view the calendar of events.

PA Environmental Professionals Call For Conference Presentations

The 2013 annual conference of the PA Environmental Professionals Association will be held May 8 to 10 at the Toftrees Resort in State College.

        In preparation for the Conference, PaEPA has issued a call for presentation proposals to be submitted by September 21.  Click Here for details.

Gov. Corbett Kayaks The Upper Delaware River

Gov. Tom Corbett Thursday began a two-day kayak tour on the Upper Delaware River through Wayne, Pike and Monroe counties to promote Pennsylvania's natural resources and learn about this critical waterway.

"Pennsylvania is blessed with unmatched natural beauty and resources," Corbett said.  "As Pennsylvanians, we sometimes take our beautiful surroundings for granted, so this summer, I'm taking out the kayak and experiencing them first hand.  I encourage residents across the state to do the same."

Setting off this morning from the southern tip of Wayne County, Corbett will be kayaking down the Upper Delaware River; visiting Wayne, Pike and Monroe counties throughout his two-day trip. The Governor will be spending time on water as well as on land visiting a state park, a national park and tourist destinations.

He will be joined on the water by Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Rick Allan, Department of Environmental Protection  Secretary Michael Krancer and Fish and Boat Commission Executive Director John Arway.

"We are thankful and excited to see the Governor's commitment to recreational tourism as he showcases outdoor opportunities across Pennsylvania this summer," said John Arway, executive director of the Fish and Boat Commission. "Fishing and boating are big business in Pennsylvania and these activities generate approximately $3.4 billion in revenue to the state every year."

While on the water, Corbett is learning about the region's landscape and how recent preservation projects and economic development initiatives have conserved the area's natural beauty while enhancing the quality of life for residents.

"An investment in Pennsylvania's natural resources is a proven investment in local economic activity," said Corbett. "Investments that create jobs, help communities prosper and preserve our natural resources are always worthwhile."

When not on the water, Corbett will be visiting local tourist destinations including the Zane Grey Museum, Masker Museum, Promised Land Stake Park and the Shawnee Inn.

This is Corbett's second kayak tour this summer. Corbett kayaked the Allegheny and Conemaugh rivers in July; visiting Forest, Venango and Warren counties, Johnstown and Pittsburgh.

The Governor's kayak trips have become a tradition, beginning last summer when the Governor promoted the importance of preserving and conserving our natural resources while traveling the Susquehanna River.

Promised Land State Park Tour

Gov. Tom Corbett today visited Promised Land State Park in Greentown during his two-day kayak tour on the Upper Delaware River to promote Pennsylvania's vast natural resources.

The governor also toured the Zane Grey Museum in Lackawaxen, the Masker Museum and the Pickerel Point Campground. Joined by state and local officials, Corbett learned how recent improvements and preservation efforts have helped to sustain outdoor recreation as an economic staple in the area.

"Supporting tourism goes hand-in-hand with preserving our natural resources," Corbett said. "Not only is it vital that we take care of these resources for the growth of our commonwealth, but equally as vital is the need to preserve these resources for future generations.  I want my grandchildren to enjoy the same breath-taking Pennsylvania that I had the privilege to kayak today."

Local forest groups joined the governor on his tour of the state park to discuss the importance of the timber industry, which generates $5.5 billion in annual economic activity statewide. The State Forest System helps the industry make possible the livelihoods of approximately 90,000 Pennsylvanians.  

As the nation's largest producer of hardwoods, Pennsylvania's timber industry involves more than 3,000 separate businesses and has a presence in all 67 counties.

Once repeatedly clear-cut forests, Promised Land State Park and its neighboring Delaware State Forest were purchased by the state in the early 1900s in an effort to restore, protect and reclaim the forests for wildlife habitat protection, recreational activity and sustainable tree harvesting.

"The young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps planted, built and improved these forests not just for the days they would spend here, but for the days that those yet to be born would enjoy here," Corbett said. "We must harvest what we need, but we also need to protect our land in the process. That belief has informed my decisions on energy policy, business growth and conservation.  By preserving our resources, we prosper."

NewsClips: Corbett Goes Where He Feels At Home, On The River

                    Gas Drilling Record Becomes Focus Of Corbett Kayak Tour

                    Protesters Make Waves At Corbett’s Kayak Tour

Montgomery County Stormwater, Sustainable Open Space BMPs Bus Tour Oct. 24

Are you interested in learning how to manage your land in a more healthy and environmentally- friendly way?  Come along on a bus tour highlighting six sites throughout Montgomery County that showcase a variety of sustainable management techniques on October 24.

The bus tour, organized by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Penn State Cooperative Extension, and Montgomery County Conservation District, will begin at the Montgomery County 4-H Center in Collegeville, where they will enjoy a light breakfast and optional tour of the native plant gardens that surround the 4-H Center.

Participants will then board a charter bus and travel to the following sites:

-- Black Rock Sanctuary – Black Rock is a 199-acre park that boasts an interpretive trail, warm season grass meadows, a pollinator garden, and wetlands for migrating waterfowl.  In 2011 the park won the second annual PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Green Park.

-- Ursinus College – Ursinus College uses its stormwater detention basins for more than just stormwater management. College courses use the area for practical, hands-on projects and educational opportunities.

-- Mayfield Estates (tentative) – The tour will visit this, or another housing development, to show how you can build homes while protecting existing trees, manage stormwater without a lot of underground pipes, and incorporate a lot of native plantings into the overall neighborhood design.

-- Colorcon – Colorcon’s Global Headquarters and Technology Center is a 90,000-square-foot facility with offices, a data center and labs. The building won a 2010 Land Development Award for its sensitive site design, sustainable building practices and natural landscape features, including a naturalized meadow, planted terraces, vegetated swales, cisterns for irrigation, a low-profile building design and more.

-- Shelly Square Shopping Center – This 80,000 square foot retail and professional center opened to the public in 2006. This commercial development showcases innovative ways to manage stormwater runoff through vegetated wetland mitigation areas that protect nearby Perkiomen Creek.

-- Cuddy Park – This park recently applied for and was awarded funding through the TreeVitalize program to plant a variety of native plants on-site. These trees will absorb stormwater runoff, provide habitat for wildlife and shade visitors.

Professional development credits are available for members of the International Society of Arboriculture, PA Certified Horticulturalists, PA Landscape Architects, PA Professional Engineers and Act 48 credit hours for educators.

Online registration is available for this event.  Questions?  Call Julianne at 610-489-4315.

August 28 South Mountain Lecture To Feature Snakes, Bats

Snakes and bats will be the topic of the next lecture in the South Mountain Speakers Series on August 26, at Kings Gap Environmental Education Center near Carlisle.

At 2 p.m., state wildlife biologists Aura Stauffer and Jim Chestney will present a free lecture entitled "Fierce Friends."  

"Snakes and bats are mysterious, elusive creatures that are sometimes misunderstood but play an important role in the ecology of the South Mountain region," Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Richard Allan said. "This is the story of their beneficial relationship with humans and their fierce fight for survival."

The biologists will describe the natural history and precarious future of these unique animals, based on a regional study of their critical habitats.

Several native snakes, including venomous species, will be displayed during a question and answer session at the end of the program.

This is the third year for the South Mountain Speakers Series, envisioned as a revival of the talks given by Joseph Rothrock in the late 19th century as part of his work to preserve and restore Pennsylvania's forests and natural landscape.  

Rothrock, a Pennsylvania native, was a pioneer in forest management in the United States and is often referred to as the state's "Father of Forestry."

This event is sponsored by DCNR, the Fish and Boat Commission and the South Mountain Partnership. The South Mountain Partnership, made up of private citizens, businesses, nonprofit organizations and government representatives in Adams, Cumberland, Franklin and York counties, works to protect and enhance the region's landscape.

The partnership was sparked by DCNR's Conservation Landscape Initiative, an effort to engage communities, local partners, state agencies and funding opportunities to conserve the high-quality natural and cultural resources while enhancing the region's economic viability.

The series will continue with "Keeping Fruit Healthy: Challenges to Keeping Food on Your Plate" on September 8 at the Penn State Extension Biglerville Research Station in Adams County.

For more information about the speaker series, visit the South Mountain Speakers Series Blog or call the Appalachian Trail Conservancy at 717-258-5771.

Some of the earlier lectures in the speaker series can now be found on the South Mountain Youtube webpage.

Tree Tender Workshops Set In Allegheny, Berks, Bucks, Chester, Philadelphia Counties

The DCNR TreeVitalize Program and its partners are again sponsoring a series of Tree Tender Workshops, this time in Allegheny, Berks, Bucks, Chester and Philadelphia counties.

        The Allegheny County workshop will be held on September 15 starting at 9:00 a.m. at the Western PA Conservancy offices in Pittsburgh.

        The Berks County workshop will be held on September 21 starting at 8:00 a.m. at the Kutztown Grange in Kutztown.

        The Bucks County workshops will be held on September 6, 13 and 20 starting at 6 p.m. at the Bucks County Extension Office in Doylestown.

        The Chester County workshops will be held on September 11, 18 and 25 starting at 6 p.m. at the Welkinweir, Pottstown.

        The Philadelphia County workshops will be held on October 3, 10 and 17 starting at 6 p.m. at the PA Horticultural Society offices in Philadelphia.

        Click Here to register online for the Bucks, Chester and Philadelphia county workshops.  Click Here to register online for the Allegheny and Berks county workshops.

Natural Abounds Sets Forest Symposium In Philadelphia October 10

Join Nature Abounds on October 10 at the John Heinz National Wildlife Refuge in Philadelphia for the Forest Symposium.  

At the Forest Symposium, we’ll look at the Pennsylvania forest, its health and the issues that the forest is facing including: hydraulic “fracking” and pipelines, climate change, environmental health, urban sprawl, invasive plants/pests, and what citizens can do to help.

Among the speakers will be Sarah Low, Coordinator of the U.S. Forest Service’s new Philadelphia Field Station. She will be discussing “Assessing the Urban Forest: understanding the ecosystem value of forests in urban environments.”

Also speaking will be Melinda Hughes-Wert, Nature Abounds President, who will be discussing “Climate Change and Pennsylvania.” Other speakers will be announced at a later date.

At the symposium, you can also network with other activists and volunteers from around the area. A light lunch will also be served.

To help offset the costs of the gathering, a donation of $10/per person is requested. The event is being sponsored by Nature Abounds and the Delaware County Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP).

For more information, please visit the Forest Symposium webpage. Space is limited, so please register now.  For questions, please contact Nature Abounds at 814-765-1453 or send email to: forests@natureabounds.org.

Backyard Stewardship Workshop Set For Sept. 29 In Chester County

PA Audubon is hosting a Backyard Stewardship Workshop on September 29 starting at 9:30 a.m.  at the Schuylkill Township Building in Phoenixville, Chester County.

Schuylkill Township is a Pennsylvania Bird Town. The workshop is part of the program. “Bird Town is a working partnership of Audubon and municipalities in Pennsylvania to promote conservation and community-based actions to create a healthy, more sustainable environment for birds and people.”

Birds are a good indicator of our environmental health, because we see and hear them every day. This is a program to create a culture of conservation and help us all become better stewards of our backyards and community lands.

Why should you attend? Because you will learn a lot about transforming your own backyard into a sustainable native habitat; you will receive a 320 page reference book; you will meet like-minded people who care about our environment; and you will learn ways to save money. Not to mention, you will have fun!

        The cost for the program is $55 which includes textbook, notebook, course, light morning fare, lunch, and 1 or 2 backyard site visits, dates to be determined.

        For more information, call Mary Ellen Heisey at 610-935-7701 or send email to: tchmeh1@comcast.net.

Game Commission Reports Successful Peregrine Falcon Nesting Season

Pennsylvania’s peregrine falcons had another successful nesting season in 2012, according to Dr. F. Arthur McMorris, Game Commission peregrine falcon program coordinator.

“We confirmed 32 pairs of falcons nesting across the Commonwealth, and 22 of them bred successfully, raising 62 young falcons,” Dr. McMorris said. “Also, we banded 42 of the young falcons in an ongoing effort to assist the recovery of the population. These numbers compare well with those of last year, when 32 pairs raised 68 offspring.”

McMorris said that peregrines nested in 15 counties across Pennsylvania, with particular concentrations in the Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg and Scranton/Wilkes-Barre areas.

“This year’s young falcons are now becoming independent of their parents,” McMorris said. “In fact, many have left their natal sites and begun wandering in search of suitable wintering areas and, ultimately, for sites where they may begin nesting themselves when they reach the age of two or three years.”

Peregrine falcons mate for life, but will readily accept a new mate if one of them perishes. They nest at the same site faithfully year after year; and in Pennsylvania, they leave their nesting territory only briefly, if at all, during the winter. Therefore, falcon enthusiasts and the general public can enjoy these magnificent birds year-round.

“The success of this year’s peregrine falcon nesting season is one more step in the recovery of the species from the brink of extinction,” McMorris said. “Peregrine falcons were extirpated from North America east of the Rocky Mountains by the use of DDT and related chemicals during the 1940s and 1950s. Subsequent to the banning of DDT in 1972, wildlife biologists in the eastern United States and Canada raised thousands of peregrines in captivity and released them into the wild; and as a result, the population is now recovering.”

In 1986, the first nesting pair of peregrine falcons in Pennsylvania in 25 years was found in the Philadelphia area. Since then, the number has gradually increased to this year’s total of 32 pairs. Peregrine falcons were removed from the federal Endangered Species list in 1999, but they remain on the Endangered Species list in Pennsylvania and most other eastern states.

For more information, visit the Game Commission’s Peregrine Falcon webpage or the PA Falcon Cam at the Rachel Carson Building in Harrisburg.

Spotlight- Barrens Research Guides Land Protection Efforts In Clinton County

In 1993, the Clinton County Natural Heritage Inventory, completed by the Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program noted an area of pitch pine-scrub oak barrens on the rolling terrain of the High Allegheny Plateau about 13 miles west-northwest of Lock Haven.

Occupying both public and private lands, this site is known as Slaughtering Grounds Barrens. From early surveys, it appeared unique but little was known about its biodiversity value, and even today the origin of the name remains a mystery.

The PNHP is a partnership between the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Game Commission, the Fish and Boat Commission, and the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy.

PNHP provides current, reliable, objective information to inform decision-making, guide conservation work and promote land-use planning that maximizes conservation benefit and reduces cost.

With funding from DCNR, the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy undertook a study to provide expanded information on Slaughtering Grounds Barrens involving Bureau of Forestry lands.

The study looked for unique insect species across many biological groups to determine if the barrens should receive additional protection and management efforts. In order to tackle a project of this magnitude, PNHP partnered with experts at the Carnegie Museum of Natural History.

The project was labor-intensive, involving installation of traps that required repair and mending from the weather and interested animals, most notably black bear. Over 11,000 specimens were collected over the course of two field seasons.  

To date, a subset of over 5,000 of these have been  identified and entered into the CMNH database. Emphasis for identification was placed on certain families of moths, beetles, and flies. Unidentified specimens are preserved in CMNH collections as a resource for future insect and conservation research.

A CMNH report summarizes the collection results and notes interesting finds. As typical of these habitats, the variety of insects was low but a number of rare species lent credence to this being a very unique place in the state.

In addition to 16 species of crane flies (Tipulidae) and more than 100 species of scarab beetles, the Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies) showed the greatest diversity among the focus groups and provided several exciting finds.

A total of 4,157 specimens were identified and yielded 354 unique species. Fifteen moth and two butterfly species of special concern were documented. The butterflies Edwards’ hairstreak (Satyrium edwardsii) and brown elfin (Callophrys augustinus) are found at sites with abundant food plants for their caterpillars, scrub oak and blueberries respectively.

Several moths were found that had not been seen during extensive surveys in Western Pennsylvania over the last 30 years, including the boreal sprawler moth (Brachionycha borealis). Nine species were new records for Clinton County and one species of looper moth (Euchlaena milnei) may be a new state record for Pennsylvania.

These findings confirm the moth community present at Slaughtering Ground Barrens is indeed unusual.

This study represented an opportunity for targeted research to guide land conservation and management efforts on public and private lands. When it is completed, the study report will be publicly available through the PNHP website.

(Provided by the Pennsylvania Natural Heritage Program, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy)

Christopher Beichner Named E.D. Of Allegheny Land Trust

In a joint statement by the Allegheny Land Trust and the Mount Washington Community Development Corporation, both organizations announce the hiring of Christopher Beichner as Executive Director of ALT.

According to ALT,  Chris was selected  from a very strong pool of candidates as the culmination of a six-month, nationwide search for an individual to lead the organization forward.  Alan S. Miller, Chairman of the ALT Board of Directors, commented, “the Transition Team was impressed by Chris’ success with the CDC in engaging stakeholders in the organization’s strategic planning and implementation efforts, strong leadership and his ability to understand, identify and implement diverse and sustainable funding streams.”

Mr. Beichner's responsibilities at ALT will include the completion of its multi-year strategic plan, create and implement communications and fundraising plans, build an operating endowment and direct all  financial management, human resources, Board development and marketing of the organization.

Jon Lusin, Board President of the MWCDC adds, "Chris’ leadership throughout his tenure has helped the MWCDC become a model organization in the Greater Pittsburgh area.  His commitment to aligning the organization’s goals with the needs of our community has been a true asset.  I thank Chris for all his efforts, and truly wish him the best of luck in his new position at the Allegheny Land Trust.

Since 2008, Chris has been the Executive Director of the MWCDC where he has written the organization's new five year strategic plan, implemented an organizational assessment, changed and created new policies for effective organizational governance, increased organizational revenues by 115 percent in two years, implemented a comprehensive real estate program, facilitated the redevelopment of vacant school buildings and led a dynamic team who have been productive in creating new workforce development initiatives and the facilitation of millions of dollars into new public and private investments.

Prior to his work at the MWCDC, Chris was the Director of Community Development and Planning for the Northwest Pennsylvania Regional Planning and Development Commission.

"I'm very pleased with our accomplishments in Mount Washington, and I know the organization and community is in a much better place today than it was four years ago.  I will have fond memories of the work we did collectively with the Board, staff and volunteers and look forward to seeing many more exciting times ahead for Mount Washington.  I am particularly excited to join a tremendous organization like ALT where I feel my strengths and relationships will help to meet their mission to serve as a lead land trust conserving and stewarding lands.  I look forward to building great relationships with the Board, staff, volunteers and investors", Mr. Beichner said.

He will begin with ALT on September 17.

Opportunity To Bid On DEP Projects In Lackawanna, Luzerne, Northumberland Counties

The Department of Environmental Protection published notices on the opportunity to bid on abandoned mine reclamation projects in Lackawanna County, Luzerne County and Northumberland County.

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.

August 31-- John Oliver Environmental Leadership Award

August 31-- Chesapeake Bay Trust Environmental Ed Capacity Building Grants

September 1-- Erie TreeVitalize Grants

September 3- PA Parks & Forest Foundation Photo Contest

September 17-- FirstEnergy STEM Education Grants

September 26-- NEW. PA Recycling Markets Center Heenan Markets Development Award

September 26-- DEP Small Business Advantage Grant Program

October 1-- DEP Recycling Performance Grants

October 15-- DEP Coastal Zone Management Grants

October 19-- NEW. NRCS Farm Conservation Programs

October 19-- PEMA Fire Company & Volunteer Ambulance Service Grants

October 30-- Schuylkill River Network Photo Contest

October 31--  PA Resources Council Lens On Litter Contest

November 2-- PHFA Marcellus Shale Housing Grants

December 14-- EPA College Campus RainWorks Challenge

May 1-- Keep PA Beautiful Sue Wiseman Scholarship Grant

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

Budget/Quick Clips                                                                                          

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

Op-Ed: DEP Is Fine-Tuning Permit Process

DEP Secretary Defends Expedited Permit Reviews

Budget

Editorial: Only Corbett’s Green Light Can Fix Transportation

PA Puts 520 Used Cars On Public Auction Block

Other

Susquehanna Twp. Science Students Learn In The Field

Buildings To Halve Energy, Resource Use In Pittsburgh

Downtown Pittsburgh Buildings Owners Go Green

Lancaster Solid Waste Authority Extended 25 Years

New Philly Gas Stations Exempt From Stage II

GAO: EPA Rules Won’t Be Too Challenging For Utilities

Clean Air? Not In Lancaster

Editorial: Slapping The EPA, Rogue & Lawless

Allegheny Panel Recommends Against Air Toxics Rules

Allegheny Air Advisers Ignored By Rule Developers

Editorial: Allegheny County Needs Update Air Guidelines

Editorial: Ethanol Outrage, Corny Mandate

Editorial: CO2 Decline Truly A Gas

TMI Steam Release Causes Noise, No Radiation Detected

New Green Initiative Being Tested At Temple

Soybean Plant Gest Twp Approval In Lancaster

Op-Ed: We Should Embrace Higher Fuel Standards

PPL Lowers Default Rate For Residential Customers

State Court Vacates $90 Million Award Over Coal Deal

Gas Drilling Record Becomes Focus Of Corbett Kayak Tour

Protesters Make Waves At Corbett’s Kayak Tour

Corbett Goes Where He Feels At Home, On The River

Delaware County Looking For Disaster Volunteers

9 Cases Of West Nile Reported In PA

CDC: West Nile Outbreak One Of Largest In U.S.

Column: Elizabethown Bike Path Paving Bold New Route?

Marcellus Shale NewsClips                                                                   

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

DEP Allows Cabot To Resume Fracking In Dimock

Gas Drilling Record Becomes Focus Of Corbett Kayak Tour

Protesters Make Waves At Corbett’s Kayak Tour

Critics Say PA DEP Gas Data Has Serious Flaws

Updated PA Shale Gas Figures Show Uptick

Chesapeake Energy: We Submitted Natural Gas Data To DEP

DEP: Chespeake Energy Data Rife With Errors

Questions Remain On PA’s Natural Gas Reports

Report: Gas From PA Shale Wells Doubles Over Last Year

SRBC Weighs Issuing More Water Permits To Drillers

DEP Investigating Susquehanna Well Pad Fire

Fire, Not Explosion At Susquehanna Drilling Site

Natural Gas Drilling Boom Extends To Wet Areas

PA Twp. Supervisors Seek Stricter Disposal Wells Standards

South Fayette Twp First To Have Drilling Rules Challenged

PA Reviewing Legality Of S. Fayette Drilling Ordinance

Study Suggests How Manufacturers Can Tap Shale Power

Shell Serious About Western PA Petrochemical Plant

Editorial: Fracking Gag Order On Doctors Must Be Replaced

Marcellus Flowback Recycling Reaches 90 Percent In SW

Vandalism Investigated After Spill At Gas Well Site

Op-Ed: Natural Gas And Hot Air

Study Suggests How Manufacturers Can Tap Shale Power

Financial/Other States

New York Getting Ready To Allow Fracking

Casey Pushes Bills To Develop Natural Gas Industry

Romney: Give State Power To Extract Energy

Earthquakes And Fracking One Year Later

Bloomberg Donates $6 Million To Drilling Research

Flooding/Watershed NewsClips                                                                        

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

Flooding

Flood Disaster Aid Bill Aims To Close Gaps

Other Watershed NewsClips

Corbett Goes Where He Feels At Home, On The River

Green Stormwater Management Balances Environment, Cost

Officials, Anglers Celebrate Rebound At Lackawanna River

Editorial: Lackawanna River Class A Restoration

Editorial: Sewer Plan Costly But Necessary

Woodlands Residents Try To Survive Without Clean Water

The Woodlands: Where The Water Doesn’t Run (Video)

9 Bidders Interested In Allentown’s Water, Sewer Business

Twp Weighing Septic Tank Cleanout Rule

Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits                                           

No new regulations were published this week.  Pennsylvania Bulletin - August 25, 2012

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 a correction in the Wild Trout Streams list.

The Public Utility Commission published notice of default service reconciliation interim guidelines.

The Governor’s Office published an index to executive orders, management directives and other issuances for reference purposes (PA Bulletin page 5506).

Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines - DEP webpage

Copies Of Draft Technical Guidance - DEP webpage

Copies of Final Technical Guidance - DEP webpage

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.

August 27-- DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee Ad Hoc Workgroup meeting.  The agenda includes discussion of the regulatory revision to DEP’s Triennial rulemaking package. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.  9:30. (formal notice)

August 28-- House Appropriations Committee holds a hearing on state and local issues related to the Shell cracker petrochemical facility in Beaver County.   Community College of Beaver County, Learning Resource Center, Monaca.  9:00.

August 29-- DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee Ad Hoc Workgroup meeting.  The agenda includes discussion of the regulatory revision to DEP’s Triennial rulemaking package. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.  9:30. (formal notice)

August 30-- DCNR Wild Resource Conservation Program hearing on FY 2012-13 grant applications.  6th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building.  11:00.  (formal notice)

September 6-- NEW. House Republican Policy Committee hearing on coal-fired power plants, the coal industry and environmental regulations.  Saint Vincent College, Fred M. Rodgers Building.  10:00.

September 11-- CANCELED. DEP Storage Tank Advisory Committee meeting.  Next scheduled meeting is December 4.  (formal notice)

September 12-- DEP Air Quality Technical Advisory Committee meeting.  Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.  9:15.  (formal notice)

September 18-- House Local Government Committee holds a hearing on Senate Bill 1261 (Erickson-R-Delaware) further providing for stormwater management by municipal authorities.  Room 140. 1:00.

September 18-- DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting.  Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.  11:00.

September 18-- CANCELED. DEP Board of Coal Mine Safety meeting.  Next scheduled meeting is December 11.  (formal notice)

October 5-- Senate Game and Fisheries Committee holds a hearing on PA Sea Grant-Pharmaceuticals in Water Program and Asian Carp.  Tom Ridge Environmental Center, Erie.  9:00.

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.

Senate Committee Schedule                House Committee Schedule

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.  For more information, visit the newly updated Crisci Associates website or call 717-234-1716.

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