pa environment digest july 27, 2015
TRANSCRIPT
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PA Environment Digest
An Update On Environmental Issues In PAEdited By: David E. Hess, Crisci Associates
Winner 2009 PAEE Business Partner Of The Year Award
Harrisburg, Pa July 27, 2015
Click Here For Entire July 27 PA Environment Digest
NOTE: Due to technical difficulties, the July 27 PA Environment Digest is posted here as one
story. Please scroll down to read this week’s Digest . Click Here to print the entire Digest.
Feature Stories This Week(In Addition To Regular Sections):
PA Officials Reiterate Commitment To Clean Water, Chesapeake Bay Cleanup
DEP To Sit Down With Stakeholders On Plan To Meet PA Clean Water Commitments
Op-Ed: Commit To Saving Chesapeake Bay, By Former Gov. Dick Thornburgh
CBF-PA: Pennsylvania Declares Clean Water Counts
DEP Citizens Advisory Council OKs Comments On Act 54 Deep Mining Impact Report
DCNR: Greene County Lake Dam Damaged By Deep Coal Mining Won’t Be Rebuilt
State Budget Impasse Day 27: Better Understanding, Productive Talks, No Agreement
Wolf Names Mary Isenhour New Chief Of Staff, Replacing Katie McGinty
PEC To Hold 2nd Environmental Policy Conference In Harrisburg October 13
3 PA Farms Receive PACD Clean Water Farm Awards
2016 Keystone Coldwater Conference Call For Presenters, Student Posters
PA Sea Grant Program Research Grant Proposals Due August 14
Register Now For Mid-Atlantic Volunteer Monitoring Conference Aug. 7-8
July 20 Watershed Winds Newsletter Now Available From Penn State Extension
June, July Catalyst Newsletters Available From Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition
Wolf Announces $98.3M Investment In Water Infrastructure Projects In 12 Counties
PennVEST Loan Helps Treat Acid Mine Drainage In Mahanoy Creek
2 Local Keep PA Beautiful Affiliates Receive Community Tree Planting Grants
PA Environmental Council Continues Clean Up Work In Northeast PA
DEP Takes Control Of Cleanup At Illegal Dump Sites In Carbon, Schuylkill Counties
July 28 Hearing On Proposed Frey Farm Landfill Expansion, Lancaster County
Wolf Administration Publishes First Regulatory Agenda
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State Distributing Free Potassium Iodide Near Nuclear Power Plants Aug. 6
DEP Holds First Meeting Of Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force
New PA Energy Infrastructure Alliance Formed
DCNR Releases Update To Shale Gas Monitoring Report
Study Finds Negligible Radiation In Ten Mile Creek, Greene CountyOp-Ed: Here’s Where We Need To Go Next For Safe Hydraulic Fracturing
DEP Regional Citizens' Roundtable Tours New Panda Patriot Natural Gas Power Plant
Small Business Advantage Pollution Prevention, Energy Efficiency Grants Now Available
U.S. DOE, Pittsburgh Sign MOU On Creating Next Generation Energy Solutions
DEP Offers Free Energy Efficiency Training, Express Your Interest Now!
July 23 DEP News Now Available
Environmental Author, Strategist Speaking At Duquesne Sustainability Graduation
July 30 Hearing On Short Term Air Emission Plan For the Homer City Power Station
Outdoor Recreation, PA Waterways Subject Of PEC TV Program Now Online
Students In Goddard Leadership Legacy Institute Explored LeTort Spring Run In Carlisle
The Circuit Trails Show Increased Use, Wins USA TODAY’s Best Urban Trail
PEC Pocono Forest & Waters Conservation Landscape Mini-Grants Awarded
Health Concerns Close Lake At Cowans Gap State Park, Fulton County
Brodhead Creek Watershed Assn Hosts 2 Hikes On August 29 In Monroe County
Health Department Calls For Increased Lyme Disease Awareness, Detection
Snyder County Mosquito Spraying Set For July 27
Wildlands Conservancy Highlights August Programs
Game Commission Seeks Input On Osprey Recovery Plan
Help Wanted: Berks Conservation District Looking To Fill Technician Position
Office Space: PACD Has Office Space Available For Immediate Rent In Harrisburg
Environmental Heritage:
July 28, 1988 Act 101 Recycling Law Enacted
Quecreek Mine Rescue Site Monument To Hope
Quecreek Mine Museum Gives Visitors Something To See
Superintendent At Flight 93 Site Set For Visitor Center Dedication
Tickets Available Soon For Flight 93 Visitors Center Opening
PA Officials Reiterate Commitment To Clean Water, Chesapeake Bay Cleanup
In Washington, DC, Thursday, Department of Environmental Protection Secretary John Quigley
and Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding restated Pennsylvania’s commitment
to improving river and stream health throughout the Commonwealth, and ultimately, the health
of the Chesapeake Bay.
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Secretaries Quigley and Redding represented Gov. Tom Wolf at Thursday’s meeting of
the Chesapeake Bay Executive Council. With Pennsylvania contributing half of the water
flowing into the bay, Secretaries Quigley and Redding said states throughout the watershed are
looking to the commonwealth for leadership, and the state is responding.
“A Chesapeake Bay reboot is needed in Pennsylvania, and we plan to focus resources and
technical assistance, reinvigorate partnerships, and create a culture of compliance in order to protect Pennsylvania’s waters and the waters of the bay,” said Quigley during a press conference
immediately following today’s meeting with leaders of the bay states.
“We know that there is work to be done, and we’re committed to seeing that work
accomplished,” said Redding. “It’s time to restart the conversation about how we meet our clean
water obligations. The health of our watersheds is tied to the agriculture industry in
Pennsylvania, and the health of our agriculture industry is tied to the quality of our waterways.
We cannot have healthy farms without healthy waterways and vice versa.”
Quigley and Redding said that since the Wolf administration took office in January, the
state has been actively engaged with the federal government, other states, and stakeholders
throughout Pennsylvania’s portion of the watershed on how the commonwealth plans to meet its
pollution reduction obligations.Quigley noted that in the near future, Pennsylvania plans to expand on its bay restoration
program by focusing on the following strategies:
— Modeling at a regional watershed level
— Developing stronger partnerships
— Increasing compliance through enforcement
— Modernizing record keeping and data collection
During the executive council meeting, Secretary Quigley led a discussion about the
benefits of riparian forest buffers in improving water quality. He recognized the role buffers play
in the Chesapeake Bay, but also emphasized that riparian forest buffers make a big difference in
the health of Pennsylvania’s local rivers and streams.
Quigley urged fellow bay states and partners to sign a resolution calling for an increase in
riparian forest buffers to meet Chesapeake Bay goals.
Secretary Redding noted that Pennsylvania’s farmers stand ready to do their part, with
many farmers in the bay watershed already acting to do the right thing for Pennsylvania’s water
quality. What is important, he added, is ensuring that Pennsylvania gets credit for all of the work
done to date and in the future in the bay improvement model.
The state’s agriculture industry is expected to contribute 75 percent of the nutrient and
sediment reductions necessary for Pennsylvania to meet its cleanup goals.
The state is facing a 2017 mid-term assessment, by which time it is expected to have
achieved 60 percent of its targeted reductions in nitrogen, phosphorous and sediment pollution.
The deadline for states to meet their Watershed Implementation Plans and Chesapeake Bay TotalMaximum Daily Load commitments is 2025.
Already, Pennsylvania has made considerable progress, although more work remains.
Since 1985, when Pennsylvania joined the Chesapeake Bay Commission, the state has
reduced phosphorous, sediment and nitrogen pollution to the bay by 25 percent (1.4 million
pounds), 15 percent (433.8 million pounds) and 6 percent (11.57 million pounds), respectively –
all despite an increase in the number of farms and in the number of acres within the watershed in
production agriculture.
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These reductions have been evidenced by Susquehanna River Basin Commission data
from monitoring stations throughout the river’s watershed.
For more information, visit DEP’s Chesapeake Bay Program webpage.
NewsClips:
Chesapeake Bay Report Card: Progress, But Challenges Ahead
Op-Ed: Waiting Long Enough For Cleaner Chesapeake Bay, Gov. Thornburgh Teachers Get Feet Wet At Envirothon Workshop
Op-Ed: Tell Toomey, PA Republicans To Support Clean Water Act
New Test Shows Little Radiation In Ten Mile Creek
Radiation Tests In Ten Mile Creek Yield Conflicting Results
Mystery Continues Over Radioactivity In Western PA Stream
Riverlife Pittsburgh Hires New CEO
Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here to subscribe to the Chesapeake Bay Journal
Related Stories:
DEP To Sit Down With Stakeholders On Plan To Meet PA Clean Water Commitments
CBF-PA: Pennsylvania Declares Clean Water Counts! Op-Ed: Commit To Saving Chesapeake Bay, Gov. Dick Thornburgh
DEP To Sit Down With Stakeholders On Plan To Meet PA Clean Water Commitments
DEP Secretary John Quigley told the Citizens Advisory Council Tuesday DEP is in the process
of developing a plan for rebooting Pennsylvania’s Chesapeake Bay cleanup efforts which it plans
to review with stakeholders over the coming months.
As he has in the past, Secretary Quigley said Pennsylvania has not met its Chesapeake
Bay cleanup commitments, in spite of investing over $4 billion since 1985. He pointed out, in
particular, that voluntary compliance from farming operations has not achieved the results
needed to meet commitments.
Quigley said the Department of Agriculture is also preparing an application for additional
federal funding with several public and private partners to fund conservation efforts to exclude
livestock from streams and to install stream buffers.
EPA sent a letter to DEP on May 4 outlining the potential steps it would take if
Pennsylvania does not act to meet its Chesapeake Bay cleanup commitments.
Quigley also noted the comment period for Pennsylvania’s Nonpoint Source
Management Plan just closed and the agency is in the process of reviewing the comments and
finalizing the plan.
NewsClips:
Chesapeake Bay Report Card: Progress, But Challenges Ahead Op-Ed: Waiting Long Enough For Cleaner Chesapeake Bay, Gov. Thornburgh
Teachers Get Feet Wet At Envirothon Workshop
Op-Ed: Tell Toomey, PA Republicans To Support Clean Water Act
New Test Shows Little Radiation In Ten Mile Creek
Radiation Tests In Ten Mile Creek Yield Conflicting Results
Mystery Continues Over Radioactivity In Western PA Stream
Riverlife Pittsburgh Hires New CEO
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Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here to subscribe to the Chesapeake Bay Journal
Related Stories:
DEP To Sit Down With Stakeholders On Plan To Meet PA Clean Water Commitments
CBF-PA: Pennsylvania Declares Clean Water Counts!
Op-Ed: Commit To Saving Chesapeake Bay, Gov. Dick Thornburgh
Op-Ed: Commit To Saving Chesapeake Bay
By Former Gov. Dick Thornburgh
The Chesapeake Bay is our nation’s largest estuary. An American treasure
of legendary beauty, the bay and its system of tributary rivers and streams
are critically important — economically, culturally, and for human health
reasons.
Yet, they remain fouled by pollution that runs off farm fields and city
streets, falls from the air, and is deposited directly from point sources suchas sewage-treatment plants and factories.
The state of the bay system is a national embarrassment.
The bay’s geography at the center of the mid-Atlantic region and in the
backyard of the District of Columbia ensures that the entire country is watching efforts to restore
good water quality. For that reason, recent reports that pollution-reduction efforts languish,
especially in my home state of Pennsylvania, are concerning.
We as a society have long acknowledged the problem and long committed to resolving it.
In fact, as governor of Pennsylvania between 1979 and 1987, I was one of five signatories to a
regional commitment to restore the bay.
That commitment, called the 1983 Chesapeake Bay Agreement, was also signed by the
governors of Maryland and Virginia, the mayor of the District of Columbia, and the
administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Our agreement began:
“We recognize that the findings of the Chesapeake Bay Program have shown an
historical decline in the living resources of the Chesapeake Bay and that a cooperative approach
is needed among the Environmental Protection Agency, the state of Maryland, the
commonwealths of Pennsylvania and Virginia, and the District of Columbia ... to fully address
the extent, complexity, and sources of pollutants entering the Bay.
“We further recognize that EPA and the states share the responsibility for management
decisions and resources regarding the high-priority issues of the Chesapeake Bay.”
The 1983 agreement established an executive council, whose role was, and still is, to:“Assess and oversee the implementation of coordinated plans to improve and protect the water
quality and living resources of the Chesapeake Bay estuarine systems.”
Roughly half of Pennsylvania drains into the bay. We deliver half of the fresh water
entering the Chesapeake and, overall, the most pollution degrading it.
I am deeply troubled that our state contributes so much pollution and has made relatively
little progress to slow that pollution, adversely affecting water quality in Pennsylvania and,
ultimately, the bay.
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The annual meeting of the executive council is scheduled for Thursday. When the council
gathers, it must commit to action, and now. The commitments must be clear, specific, and
measurable.
The nearly 18 million people living in the bay states should not have to wait another
30-plus years for the clean water promised to all of us in our nation’s Clean Water Act.
Dick Thornburgh is a former governor of Pennsylvania he can be contacted by sending email to:
NewsClips:
Chesapeake Bay Report Card: Progress, But Challenges Ahead
Op-Ed: Waiting Long Enough For Cleaner Chesapeake Bay, Gov. Thornburgh
Teachers Get Feet Wet At Envirothon Workshop
Op-Ed: Tell Toomey, PA Republicans To Support Clean Water Act
New Test Shows Little Radiation In Ten Mile Creek
Radiation Tests In Ten Mile Creek Yield Conflicting Results
Mystery Continues Over Radioactivity In Western PA Stream
Riverlife Pittsburgh Hires New CEO Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here to subscribe to the Chesapeake Bay Journal
Related Stories:
DEP To Sit Down With Stakeholders On Plan To Meet PA Clean Water Commitments
CBF-PA: Pennsylvania Declares Clean Water Counts!
Op-Ed: Commit To Saving Chesapeake Bay, Gov. Dick Thornburgh
CBF-PA: Pennsylvania Declares Clean Water Counts!
By Harry Campbell, Chesapeake Bay Foundation-PA Executive Director
The chorus of county, organization, and individual voices grows louder
across Pennsylvania each day as more names are added to our Clean
Water Counts Campaign .
The lyrics of this tune say that the status quo is no longer good
enough when it comes to efforts to reduce water pollution in
Pennsylvania.
Likewise, more than 12,000 people across the region have made
it clear to their governors and the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, that it's time the Chesapeake Executive Council stands firmly behind the Chesapeake
Clean Water Blueprint. They are urging the council to take action to get Pennsylvania back ontrack to meet its pollution-reduction commitments.
The Executive Council meets Thursday, July 23, and is responsible for keeping the
Blueprint on track. Considering that restoration efforts are significantly off-track, particularly in
Pennsylvania, CBF is calling on the council to provide necessary leadership and to acknowledge
that accelerated actions must take place.
If you have not already, please send a message to EPA and your governor urging they
fully commit to the Blueprint.
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EPA's most recent assessment of 2014-15 milestones shows that Pennsylvania has fallen
dangerously behind in meeting its commitments to reduce nitrogen and sediment pollution. But,
it is on track to meet its phosphorus-reduction mark. This follows the Commonwealth missing its
nitrogen and sediment goals in 2012-13.
Pollution-reduction efforts need to be rebooted if Pennsylvania is to reach its
commitment to implement 60 percent of the programs and practices necessary to restore localwater quality by 2017 and finish the job by 2025.
The Clean Water Counts campaign in the Commonwealth gives Pennsylvanians an
opportunity to join in jumpstarting elected state officials with one collective voice—that clean
water must be a top priority for the Keystone State.
CBF and the PA Growing Greener Coalition launched the Clean Water Counts campaign
last summer, calling on local governments across the Commonwealth to pass clean water
resolutions. The campaign gained significant momentum in June, when Philadelphia County
added its voice to 14 other counties in adopting the clean water resolution.
The Clean Water Counts campaign continues to gain the support of individuals as well.
About 1 ,500 Pennsylvanians have signed the petition calling on their county officials to pass
resolutions.CBF expanded the campaign's rally for clean water to organizations, groups, and
businesses. In a short period of time, more than 80 statewide and regional organizations and
numerous conservancies, watershed alliances, and conservation districts have added their names
to the cause.
By supporting the Clean Water Counts campaign, Philadelphia and numerous other
counties and organizations are telling lawmakers in Harrisburg that clean water is integral to
Pennsylvania's economy, communities, and human health. That now is the time for action.
It is the same message that CBF hopes will resonate with the Chesapeake Executive
Council on July 23.
Pennsylvania Gov. Tom Wolf, a member of the Executive Council, inherited the
Commonwealth's water quality issues and has acknowledged that a pollution-reduction "reboot"
of efforts is necessary.
Former Pennsylvania Governor Dick Thornburgh, one of five past signatories to a
regional commitment to restore the Bay, told the Philadelphia Inquirer that the council "must
commit to action, and now. The commitments must be clear, specific, and measurable."
Those calling on the Executive Council to take action and those signing on to the Clean
Water Counts campaign in Pennsylvania, are in harmony with the fact that clean water is a
legacy worth leaving future generations.
For more information on programs and activities in Pennsylvania, visit the Chesapeake
Bay Foundation-PA webpage. Click Here to sign up for regular Chesapeake Bay-PA updates.
NewsClips:Chesapeake Bay Report Card: Progress, But Challenges Ahead
Op-Ed: Waiting Long Enough For Cleaner Chesapeake Bay, Gov. Thornburgh
Teachers Get Feet Wet At Envirothon Workshop
Op-Ed: Tell Toomey, PA Republicans To Support Clean Water Act
New Test Shows Little Radiation In Ten Mile Creek
Radiation Tests In Ten Mile Creek Yield Conflicting Results
Mystery Continues Over Radioactivity In Western PA Stream
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Riverlife Pittsburgh Hires New CEO
Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here to subscribe to the Chesapeake Bay Journal
Related Stories:
DEP To Sit Down With Stakeholders On Plan To Meet PA Clean Water Commitments
CBF-PA: Pennsylvania Declares Clean Water Counts! Op-Ed: Commit To Saving Chesapeake Bay, Gov. Dick Thornburgh
DEP Citizens Advisory Council OKs Comments On Act 54 Deep Mining Impact Report
At its Tuesday meeting, DEP’s Citizens Advisory Council finalized its comments on DEP’s Act
54 report on the impact of underground coal mining. Council also heard a presentation on
workforce development and succession planning within DEP and made changes to its policy for
accepting public comments during its monthly meetings.
Act 54 Report Comments
Among the recommendations made by the CAC in its final comments on DEP’s Act 54
report are---- Independent Review Committee: Asks Gov. Wolf to convene by Executive Order an
independent, technical committee to study whether a water supply impacted by underground coal
mining can be restored to pre-mining conditions in both water quality chemistry and biological
characteristics and make recommendations, if appropriate to Act 54 to the General Assembly and
Governor. The CAC notes that 8 of the 55 streams determined to be affected in the previous
report (2003-2008) have yet to recover to pre-mining conditions.
-- Disclosure Of Restoration Measures: The CAC recommends Act 54 be amended to direct
mine owners to disclose to DEP how water resources impacted by underground mining
operations were restored or reclaimed through private landowner agreements. Without this data,
the Commonwealth is not in a position to adequately assess if the intent and purpose of Act 54
are being fulfilled.
-- Presumption Zone Should Be Increased: The 35 degree Rebuttable Presumption Zone, as
provided in Section 5.2(c) of Act 54, should be reassessed by DEP through consultation with
appropriate technical professionals. With this recommendation, the CAC notes that 25 percent
of mine-liable water supply effects were identified in the most recent Act 54 Report to lie outside
the Rebuttable Presumption Zone, including as much as 85 degrees outward and upward from
the edge of mining.
-- Eliminate Deadline For Water Restoration: The CAC believes it is appropriate the General
Assembly revisit the provisions included in Act 54 that limit a mine operator’s liability to restore
or replace a water supply if claims concerning water contamination, diminution or interruption
do not occur within 2 years from the time the supply was adversely affected.-- Evaluation Of Compensation Timeframes: Section 5.1(g) of Act 54 specifies that
compensation shall be provided to the landowner if an affected water supply is not restored or
reestablished or a permanent alternate source is not provided within three years. The CAC
received comments and testimony from the public that claim resolutions are taking longer than
statutorily prescribed, including circumstances where cases have remained unresolved for over 7
to 8 years with an average resolution of three and a half years. Given these reports, the CAC
recommends the General Assembly investigate the resolution timeframes included in Act 54,
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why those timeframes are not being upheld, and whether those timeframes need to be amended
based upon practical and historical experience.
-- DEP Should Be Notified Of Water Supply Issues: Section 5.2 of Act 54 requires a
landowner or water user to notify the mine operator when water supply contamination,
diminution or interruption has occurred. The CAC recommends the General Assembly reassess
the adequacy of this requirement, including whether it is appropriate that DEP be notified at thesame time a mine operator is notified, so that DEP, if necessary, can initiate an independent
analysis of impacts on water resources, consistent with its obligations under the Clean Streams
Law.
The CAC recommendation include 19 additional comments on other areas of the
underground mining program including, DEP regulations, DEP permitting procedures, DEP
resources for the program, particularly for data management systems, DEP policies and DEP
public engagement and transparency.
The comments also include a list of 11 questions asked to clarify sections of the Act 54
report.
A copy of the final comments is available online and will be posted on the DEP’s
Citizens Advisory Council webpage. A copy of the Act 54 report covering 2008 to 2013 is also
available online .
The Citizens Advisory Council held two public hearings on the Act 54 report to help it
develop its recommendations and comments, including one in Washington County.
Bulletin: DCNR: Greene County Lake Dam Damaged By Deep Coal Mining Won’t Be
Rebuilt
DEP Workforce/Succession Planning
Jason Swarthout, Director of DEP’s Bureau of Human Resources, provided Council with
an overview of DEP’s workforce and steps the agency is taking on succession planning.
Swarthout provided this snapshot of DEP’s workforce: 95 percent of DEP’s positions are
civil service, 70 percent are covered by union contracts, 72 percent of positions are in field
offices, DEP uses 300 different job classifications.
The average age of a DEP employee is 48 with 15.7 years of experience and for
individuals in leadership positions the average age is 53 with 22 years of experience.
Over the next four years 30 percent of DEP’s employees will be eligible for retirement.
About 6 to 8 percent of employees retire each year, although that could accelerate with the
adoption of pension reforms. The average age of a DEP employee retiring is 59.
Swarthout said the agency is providing a variety of tools to agency managers so they can
take steps to accommodate retirements by improving core staff skills, identify future managers
and by smoothing the process of opening civil service tests in a more timely manner to facilitate
filling positions when they become available.
DEP, like other employers, is also adjusting its hiring practices to the expectations of anew generation of potential employers whose expectations are different than those of the baby
boomers.
There is more competition for employees to fill open positions because there are fewer
eligible graduates of academic programs. Younger employees, Swarthout said, are also
expecting to jump from job to job and not stay with one company or agency for their entire
career like baby boomers.
In response to concerns about these and other issues, in particular attracting more
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minority candidates to fill positions in DEP, the Council formed a new Workforce and
Succession Planning Committee to look more closely at these issues.
A copy of Swarthout’s presentation will be posted on the Citizens Advisory Council’s
webpage.
Public Comments At CAC Meetings
The Council also adopted changes to its procedures to allow for public comments duringeach of its monthly meetings.
The CAC sets aside 15 minutes at each of its public meetings for comments from the
public on issues they are concerned about. In several recent meetings, groups of individuals
presented similar comments on a specific issue which became more in the nature of a public
hearing than the comment period was intended for at meetings.
The Council clarified its procedures to ensure people presenting comments understood
the CAC is not a decision making body, it advises DEP on issues of concern to Council members
and the public.
Persons interested in presenting comments should notify Council 24 hours before the
meeting to they can be assured time to present their comments. Comments should be limited to
no more than five minutes, unless prior arrangements have been made.Groups will be asked to designate a representative to present their views.
To arrange to present comments before Council, contact Michele Tate, CAC Executive
Director, by sending email to: [email protected] or call 717-787-8171.
August Meeting Canceled
The August meeting of the Council has been canceled. The next meeting is September
15.
For more information, visit DEP’s Citizens Advisory Council webpage.
NewsClips:
DCNR Halts Efforts To Restore Lake At Ryerson Station State Park
DCNR Will Not Rebuild Lake Dam At Ryerson Station State Park
Investor Pushing Changes At Consol Energy
Consol Warns Of Loss From Low Gas, Coal Prices
Related Story:
DCNR: Greene County Lake Dam Damaged By Deep Coal Mining Won’t Be Rebuilt
DCNR: Greene County Lake Dam Damaged By Deep Coal Mining Won’t Be Rebuilt
The Washington Observer-Reporter and Tribune Review
Friday reported DCNR Secretary Cindy Dunn announced the
agency would not rebuild the Duke Lake dam in Ryerson
Station State Park , Greene County, due to concerns about
additional settling of an area above an underground coal mine
that damaged the original dam.
In 2013, a mediated settlement between the Department
of Conservation and Natural Resources and Consol Energy,
which owned the Bailey coal mine which damaged the Duke
Lake dam in 2005, resulted in Consol agreeing to pay $36 million to replace the dam, add 506
acres to the park and agreed not to drill on the park lands for natural gas and other commitments.
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Secretary Dunn said DCNR will change the focus of its efforts, along with a task force
helping the agency, to find other amenities that could be added to Ryerson with the $36 million
in funding provided by Consol.
(Photo: Washington Observer-Reporter.)
NewsClips:
DCNR Halts Efforts To Restore Lake At Ryerson Station State Park DCNR Will Not Rebuild Lake Dam At Ryerson Station State Park
Investor Pushing Changes At Consol Energy
Consol Warns Of Loss From Low Gas, Coal Prices
Related Story:
DEP Citizens Advisory Council OKs Comments On Act 54 Deep Mining Impact Report
State Budget Impasse Day 27: Better Understanding, Productive Talks, No Agreement
Positive noises were coming from the Capitol after meetings between Gov. Wolf and GOP
Leaders on the budget this week with phrases like “better understanding,” “ productive talks,”
and even a “really rolled up our sleeves” were used to describe the talks.But on Day 27 of the state budget impasse, there was no agreement. In fact the big news
was not the budget, but the resignation of Katie McGinty as Wolf’s chief of staff to run for the
U.S. Senate ( see separate story).
The Senate and House are not scheduled back for voting session until September 21;
although the House has a one day session planned for August 25. Of course, if lightening strikes
and there is a budget agreement, members can always be recalled sooner.
The House this week did take the opportunity to move a General Fund budget vehicle--
House Bill 1460 (Adolph-R-Delaware)-- out of the House Appropriations Committee so that
when a budget deal is made there will be a bill to slap it into. The bill is identical to the one
vetoed by Gov. Wolf.
Meanwhile, see you in September House and Senate members! (unless sooner recalled).
NewsClips:
Wolf Willing To Compromise On Severance Tax
Op-Ed: Put Kids First, Not Gas Companies
Op-Ed: PA Has Potential To Be An Energy Powerhouse
Op-Ed: Natural Gas Economic Benefits For Southcentral PA
Wolf: Social Service Providers May Have To Borrow Money
Wolf: We’re Going To Get Through This
Wolf, Lawmakers Sound Upbeat After 4-Hour Budget Talks
House Returns To Session With Deep Divides Over Budget
Budget Negotiators Find Better Understanding, No Final Product GOP Majority Of Majority Rule Could Test Any Budget Deal
Budget Politicking Hits The Road
House Returns To Budget Impasse
McGinty Steps Down To Make U.S. Senate Run
Isenhour Tapped To Replace McGinty As Chief Of Staff
Column: With Wolf Staff Changes, Real Shot At Budget Deal
Republicans See Isenhour’s Appointment As Positive
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Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule[Updated]/Gov’s 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--
Bill Calendars
House (August 25): House Bill 48 (Godshall-R-Montgomery) setting standards for drinking
water well construction; Senate Bill 307 (Yudichak-D-Luzerne) providing for an independent
counsel for the Environmental Quality Board. <> Click Here for full House Bill Calendar.
Senate (September 21): Senate Resolution 54 (Argall-R-Schuylkill) urging Congress to impose
tariffs on imported anthracite coal (sponsor summary); Senate Resolution 55 (Hutchinson-R-
Venango) a concurrent resolution establishing a Forestry Task Force associated with the Joint
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Legislative Air and Water Pollution Control and Conservation Committee (sponsor summary ).
<> 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
Appropriations
EducationEnvironmental Resources and Energy
Consumer Affairs
Gaming Oversight
Human Services
Judiciary
Liquor Control
Transportation
Links for all other Standing House Committees
Senate
Appropriations
Environmental Resources and Energy
Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure
Community, Economic and Recreational Development
Education
Judiciary
Law and Justice
Public Health and Welfare
Transportation
Links for all other Standing Senate Committees
Bills Introduced
The following bills of interest were introduced this week--
Budget Placeholder: House Bill 1460 (Adolph-R-Delaware) a General Fund budget bill to be
used as a vehicle is identical to House Bill 1192 vetoed by the Governor was introduced and
reported out of the House Appropriations Committee and is now on the House Calendar for
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action.
Session Schedule ( Updated)
Here is the latest voting session schedule for the Senate and House--
Senate
September 21 (unless sooner recalled)
House (Updated )
August 25 (unless sooner recalled)
September 21, 22, 28 (Non-Voting), 29, 30
October 5, 6, 7, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 28
November 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 (Non-Voting)
December 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16
Governor’s Schedule
Gov. Tom Wolf's work calendar will be posted each Friday and his public schedule for the day
will be posted each morning. Click Here to view Gov. Wolf’s Weekly Calendar and Public
Appearances.
Senate/House Bills Moving
The following bills of interest saw action this week in the House and Senate--
House
Water Well Standards: House Bill 48 (Godshall-R-Montgomery) setting standards for drinking
water well construction was reported from the House Rules Committee and is now on the House
Calendar for action.
Mine Water Reuse: Senate Bill 875 (Bartolotta-R- Fayette) providing for the reuse of treated
mine water for fracking gas wells was amended on the House Floor and referred to the House
Appropriations Committee.
Trucking Leachate: Senate Bill 513 (McGarrigle-R-Delaware) authorizing the transportation of
landfill leachate by truck was referred to the House Appropriations Committee.
Budget Placeholder: House Bill 1460 (Adolph-R-Delaware) a General Fund budget bill to be
used as a vehicle is identical to House Bill 1192 vetoed by the Governor was introduced and
reported out of the House Appropriations Committee and was referred to the House Rules
Committee.
News From The Capitol
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Wolf Names Mary Isenhour New Chief Of Staff, Replacing Katie McGinty
Gov. Wolf Thursday named Mary Isenhour as his new chief of staff to replace Katie McGinty
who is running for U.S. Senate. Isenhour was Director of Legislative Affairs for Wolf prior to
this position."Mary Isenhour is one of my closest advisors, and she has served as a valuable part of my
administration," said Gov. Wolf. "Mary has earned respect from Republicans and Democrats,
and she has vast and diverse experience in government that will help to guide my administration.
I am eager to continue to work with Mary in her new role as my Chief of Staff."
“It is an honor to serve as Gov. Wolf’s Chief of Staff, and I look forward to continuing to
work with the governor and the administration to serve the people of Pennsylvania,” said Mary
Isenhour. “Gov. Wolf has the right priorities for the Commonwealth: schools that teach, jobs that
pay, and government that works, and I look forward to working with him to implement his
vision.”
"Katie McGinty has been an invaluable advisor and friend, and her contributions to the
Commonwealth will be remembered. We worked together to expand Medicaid, eliminate theunfair and costly SNAP asset test, save the children's health insurance program in Pennsylvania,
and implement key government reforms like a gift ban," said Gov. Wolf. "Katie's work has help
lay the course for my administration, and I greatly appreciate her efforts to fix our schools, create
jobs, and build a better Pennsylvania."
"It has been an honor to serve Gov. Tom Wolf," said Katie McGinty. "I am proud to have
helped to fight to expand Medicaid and eliminate unfair asset tests while advocating for policies
that will fund our schools and strengthen our middle class. I will continue to fight for the
principles and policies that we worked on in the Wolf Administration including fixing our
schools, creating jobs, and advocating for a living wage for our workers."
Isenhour began her career as a staffer in the Kansas House of Representatives, where
from 1991 to 1995, She was chief of staff to the Democratic Leader. It was here where Isenhour
worked across party lines to advance legislation that improved the lives of the citizens of Kansas.
In this role, Isenhour worked with leadership and committee members to develop and
implement committee and floor strategies, and she worked on developing legislative strategy and
building coalitions that resulted in legislation in numerous areas. She also served as liaison
between the Leader and other elected officials, agencies, and political entities.
From 1995 to 1999, Isenhour served as a national political director for the Washington,
D.C. based Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee, and from 1999 to 2003, she served as
executive director of the Pennsylvania House Democratic Campaign Committee (HDCC).
Following her time at HDCC, Isenhour served as executive director of the Pennsylvania
Democratic Party and as state director for Hillary Clinton's Presidential Campaign. She alsoowns a consulting firm.
Isenhour served as senior strategist to Tom Wolf for Governor and as director of
legislative affairs under the Wolf Administration.
NewsClips:
Wolf Names Mary Isenhour New Chief Of Staff
Isenhour Tapped To Replace McGinty As Chief Of Staff
Wolf Names Mary Isenhour New Chief Of Staff
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Wolf Taps Insider As New Chief Of Staff
Wolf Names New Top Aide
Column: With Wolf Staff Changes, Real Shot At Budget Deal
Republicans See Isenhour’s Appointment As Positive
News From Around The State
PEC To Hold 2nd Environmental Policy Conference In Harrisburg October 13
The PA Environmental Council Friday announced its Second Annual Environmental Policy
Conference , which will be held on October 13 at the Hilton Hotel in Harrisburg.
The all-day forum will be focused on the biggest environmental opportunities and
challenges facing Pennsylvania, including state implementation of the soon-to-be-announced
Federal Clean Power Plan, achieving 2017 pollution reduction goals for the Chesapeake Bay
watershed, and how the state should manage infrastructure build-out from natural gas production
and use.
Department of Environmental Protection Secretary John Quigley will provide the keynote
address for the conference.
“The next two to three years are going to rewrite Pennsylvania’s approach to dealing with
climate change and water resource protection,” said President and CEO Davitt Woodwell. “As
with last year, our aim for the conference is to have an open dialog from key players to get a
sense of where our state can go, and what we can accomplish. It’s time to move forward on these
issues.”
Last year’s event also featured all four Chairs of the Senate and House Environmental
Resources and Energy Committees from the General Assembly. They have been invited to
participate again this year.
More information about the conference, including an agenda, will be posted on PEC’sEnvironmental Policy Conference webpage. Click Here to register for the Conference.
3 PA Farms Receive PACD Clean Water Farm Awards
The PA Association of Conservation Districts, Inc . awarded the operators of three farms with the
Clean Water Farm Award during its annual conference on July 8 in Monroeville, Allegheny
County.
The honor is awarded annually to farmers who manage their daily farm operations in an
environmentally conscious manner that helps to protect Pennsylvania's water quality.
This year's award recipients are--
— Joel Loch (Lehigh County): Owned and operated by Joel Loch and located in Kutztown,PA, the farm has 65 dairy cows and 300 poultry along with 137.7 acres of cropland and 19.9
acres of pasture. It is located along Mill Creek, a trout-stocked and migratory fishery, which is a
tributary of Maiden Creek, the municipal water source to the citizens of Reading, PA. Best
management practices installed on the farm include: a water control structure consisting of a
stormwater basin, concrete drop box and underground outlets on the pasture; an animal walkway;
stabilized stream crossings and stream bank fencing; a grassed waterway; and an animal heavy
use area.
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— Longview Family Farm (Potter County): The Longview Family Farm in Port Allegany,
PA, is owned and operated by Allen Long. The farm has 48 brood cows and 48 calves with 10
acres of cropland and 144 acres of pasture. Sartwell Creek, a Cold Water Fishery/Wild Trout
designated stream, flows through the farm on its way to the Allegheny River. Best management
practices installed on the farm include: stream bank fencing with a stabilized stream crossing; a
vegetated buffer; a heavy use area and roofed manure stacking pad; and soil testing every threeyears.
— David & Cathy Reifsneider (York County): The Gobbler’s Knob Farm in Felton, PA is
owned and operated by David and Cathy Reifsneider. It consists of 140,000 poultry (organic
broilers) and 19 goats. The farm has 10.8 acres of cropland and 2.3 acres of pasture. Upon
moving to the property, the Reifsneiders worked with the district to install many conservation
practices including: mortality composting; a waste storage facility; and a grassed waterway and
drop boxes to prevent erosion and control roof runoff
The Clean Water Farm award was initiated in 1986. Recipients of the award are
nominated by their local county conservation districts.
Financial support for this award is provided by the Department of Environmental
Protection through the Chesapeake Bay Regulatory and Accountability Program and thePennsylvania Chesapeake Bay Education Office , administered by the PA Association of
Conservation Districts, Inc.
NewsClips:
Chesapeake Bay Report Card: Progress, But Challenges Ahead
Op-Ed: Waiting Long Enough For Cleaner Chesapeake Bay, Gov. Thornburgh
Teachers Get Feet Wet At Envirothon Workshop
Op-Ed: Tell Toomey, PA Republicans To Support Clean Water Act
New Test Shows Little Radiation In Ten Mile Creek
Radiation Tests In Ten Mile Creek Yield Conflicting Results
Mystery Continues Over Radioactivity In Western PA Stream
Riverlife Pittsburgh Hires New CEO
Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here to subscribe to the Chesapeake Bay Journal
(Reprinted from the July 23 DEP News . Click Here to sign up for your own copy.)
2016 Keystone Coldwater Conference Call For Presenters, Student Posters
The PA Council of Trout Unlimited and other organizers of the 2016
Keystone Coldwater Conference in State College on February 26-27 have
issued a call for presenters and student posters with the theme ofColdwater Resources: Connecting Conservation, Protection, Restoration
and Stewardship.
Call For Presentations
If you have a successful project, effective monitoring and
assessment efforts, research projects, lessons learned or best management
practices of interest to a target audience of over 250 people like
grassroots members from nonprofit organizations such as Trout
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Unlimited, sportsmen’s groups and watershed associations, along with environmental
professionals from conservation districts, agencies, and consulting firms, your proposal is
welcome.
Click Here for all the details.
Student Posters
College students currently participating in research that relates to the conservation, protection, restoration of Pennsylvania's coldwater streams are invited to participate in a student
poster session.
The session will be held during the February 26 evening social. Students should prepare a
poster and a 3-5 minute presentation on their research. Posters will be judged by a technical team
on the presentation and outline of the poster. The top three presentations will be announced
during the conference on Saturday.
Click Here for all the details.
Sponsorship Information
Want to become a sponsor for this important event. Click Here for all the details on how
you can support this unique effort.
Registration information for the Conference is coming soon! Visit the 2016 KeystoneColdwater Conference website for more information.
PA Sea Grant Program Research Grant Proposals Due August 14
Pennsylvania Sea Grant is soliciting pre-proposals to fund applied research projects that begin in
late February 2016 and end by December 31, 2017. A brief two-page pre-proposal, plus a draft
budget and two-page CV, is due by 5:00 PM, EST, August 14.
Five to seven grants, each totaling from $50,000 – $75,000, will be awarded. Only
researchers who have a required 50 percent non-federal match that develop projects specifically
related to the Lake Erie, Delaware River, or Susquehanna River regions of Pennsylvania and
address one of the focus areas below are encouraged to submit proposals.
Members of the PA Sea Grant staff and advisory councils, and other experts will screen
pre-proposals and encourage full proposals for highly rated projects.
Click Here for all the details.
Register Now For Mid-Atlantic Volunteer Monitoring Conference Aug. 7-8
Join volunteer monitors, government representatives and water quality groups at the 2015
Mid-Atlantic Volunteer Monitoring Conference at Shenandoah University in Winchester,
Virginia August 7-8.
Registrants who sign up on for the Thursday canoe expedition will be treated with aguided float down a portion of the Shenandoah River.
On Friday, the conference will headline David Paylor, Director of the Virginia
Department of Environmental Quality and Nicholas DiPasquale, Director of the Chesapeake Bay
Program.
Other speakers on Friday include representatives from volunteer monitoring groups from
Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia. In addition representatives
from several state and local government agencies will speak about how volunteer monitoring has
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been helpful and incorporated into their respective programs.
Friday evening will include a prize raffle and a dinner with a show through the premiere
of the first biennial Mid-Atlantic Volunteer Monitoring Film Festival. The deadline for entries
is July 27.
Saturday events continue with various hands-on workshops and activities including a tour
of one of the most advanced volunteer monitoring laboratories in Virginia and a tour of a localcave and how karst land plays a role in water quality and American history.
For more information, visit the Conference Facebook page or Click Here to register. The
deadline for register is July 27.
July 20 Watershed Winds Newsletter Now Available From Penn State Extension
The July 20 edition of the Watershed Winds newsletter is now available from Penn State
Extension featuring articles on--
-- Severe Harmful Algal Bloom Predicted For Lake Erie In 2015
-- Extension Teaches Northcentral Forest Landowners Pond Management
-- PA Off Track On Chesapeake Bay Pollution Reduction -- Click Here to sign up for your own copy.
June, July Catalyst Newsletters Available From Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition
The June issue of The Catalyst newsletter is now available from the Slippery Rock Watershed
Coalition featuring articles on--
-- Streambank Planting At Slippery Rock Campground
-- Paper By SRU Student, Professor On Algae Growth Published
-- The Kids Catalyst-- PA’s State Fish
-- Celebrate The Bloom Festival At Jennings Environmental Ed Center
The July issue of The Catalyst newsletter is now available from the Slippery Rock
Watershed Coalition featuring articles on--
-- No Horsing Around At Appalachian Regional Reforestation Initiative Conference
-- Slippery Rock Creek Passive Treatment Systems-The Renaissance Begins
-- The Kids Catalyst- Amazing Ants!
-- Lake Arthur Regatta- August 1 & 2
-- Click Here to sign up for your own copy.
Wolf Announces $98.3M Investment In Water Infrastructure Projects In 12 Counties
Gov. Tom Wolf Wednesday announced the investment of $98.3 million for twelve wastewaterand nonpoint source projects across twelve counties through the PA Infrastructure Investment
Authority .
“The projects funded at today’s meeting continue my administration’s commitment to
creating a cleaner and healthier environment for all Pennsylvanians while simultaneously
encouraging job growth in the Commonwealth,” said Gov. Wolf. ”Efforts such as these are what
we need to now in the future to secure the economic and natural wellbeing of the
Commonwealth.”
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Of the $98.3 million, $90.8 million is allocated for low-interest loans and $7.5 million is
awarded through grants.
The funding comes from a combination of state funds approved by voters, federal grants
to PennVEST from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and recycled loan repayments
from previous PennVEST funding awards. Funds for the projects are disbursed after bills for
work are paid and receipts are submitted to PennVEST.A complete list of projects funded is available online.
For more information on funding programs, visit the PA Infrastructure Investment
Authority website.
PennVEST Loan Helps Treat Acid Mine Drainage In Mahanoy Creek
Senator David G. Argall (R-Schuylkill) and Rep. Neal P. Goodman (D-Schuylkill) announced
Friday a $2,620,736 loan through the PA Infrastructure and Investment Authority will assist
Keystone Anthracite Co. with efforts to remediate acid mine drainage into the Shenandoah Creek
and Mahanoy Creek by way of the Weston Tunnel.
Currently, high pH and aluminum levels from acid mine drainage from the WestonTunnel in West Mahanoy Township pollutes the Shenandoah Creek, which flows into the
Mahanoy Creek. The loan will provide for the construction of a drainable limestone bed to be
placed in the Weston Tunnel to treat about 2,000 gallons of water per minute.
“This loan will continue the ongoing efforts to clean up water pollution affecting our
streams and creeks,” Sen. Argall said.
“Polluted mine water continues to be a significant environmental problem in Schuylkill
County,” Goodman said. “I’m pleased PennVEST is providing significant support to Keystone
Anthracite so it can treat the acidic water that flows from the Weston Tunnel and pollutes
Mahanoy Creek.”
The total cost for the project is $3,620,736. The project is scheduled to begin in August
and be completed by the end of the year.
2 Local Keep PA Beautiful Affiliates Receive Community Tree Planting Grants
National nonprofit Keep America Beautiful and UPS awarded local Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful
affiliates-- Keep Philadelphia Beautiful and Keep Westmoreland County Beautiful -- each with a
$5,000 Community Tree and Recovery Tree Planting Grant.
Grant money awarded to Keep Philadelphia Beautiful will go towards helping to recover
the canopy cover in the 19111 zip code area, a section of the city of Philadelphia that was hit
hard by hurricane Sandy. The group will plant 100 trees.
"We're so grateful to Keep America Beautiful and UPS for providing us, TreePhilly andThe Fairmount Park Conservancy the opportunity to increase the tree canopy in a vital part of
Philadelphia, helping to fulfill Mayor Michael Nutter's sustainability goals as laid out in his
Greenworks Plan . We're excited to get started on this project, and know it will make a tangible,
positive impact on Philadelphia," said Michelle Feldman, Director of Keep Philadelphia
Beautiful.
Grant Money awarded to Keep Westmoreland County Beautiful will go towards planting
new trees on Hempfield Park property and mitigating some of the old and damaged trees.
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“Keep Westmoreland County Beautiful is thrilled to contribute KAB/UPS’s $5,000
Community Tree Planting award to improve our local 94-acre Hempfield Park. Specimen trees
purchased with grant funds will enhance the park both visually and environmentally for over
184,000 visitors annually,” said Ellen Keefe, Executive Director of Keep Westmoreland County
Beautiful.
“Planting trees provide a host of benefits to the community; they clean the air, preventsoil erosion, reduce runoff and provide food and habitat,” said Shannon Reiter, President of Keep
PA Beautiful. “Tree plantings provide an opportunity for the community to engage in an activity
that improves the quality of life for everyone. We are grateful for the partnership of Keep
America Beautiful and UPS for providing this opportunity to our local Pennsylvania affiliates.”
“Keep America Beautiful is proud to be part of The UPS Foundation’s global effort to
restore and stabilize the tree canopy in areas hit by natural disasters,” said Jennifer Jehn,
president and CEO, Keep America Beautiful. “Our community-based affiliates are poised to take
action in this effort as native trees are such a vital part of making our neighborhoods greener,
healthier, safer and more beautiful places to live.”
In 2015, the KAB/UPS Community Tree & Recovery Tree Planting Grant Program
awarded a total of $160,000 in grant funding to projects addressing the reduction of levels ofcarbon dioxide (CO2) and greenhouse gas emissions through strategic plantings; planting fruit
trees to produce fruit for local consumption; or post-recovery tree planting projects where
communities have lost a significant number of trees as a result of natural disasters. The
importance of planting native trees was emphasized.
For more information on community beautification and litter prevention, visit the Keep
Pennsylvania Beautiful website.
PA Environmental Council Continues Clean Up Work In Northeast PA
Statistics from this spring’s illegal dumpsite cleanups in
Susquehanna and Wayne counties have been tabulated and
the numbers are quite impressive!
Palmira Miller, program coordinator in PA
Environmental Council’s Northeast office, certainly had a
busy season organizing and cleaning up illegal dumpsites in
the two counties with the help of many partners and
volunteers.
Palmira geared up for the spring clean up season with
numerous meetings and lots of research from January
through March.
She was busy reviewing the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Illegal Dumpsite surveys thatwere completed for our project area counties and were used to make connections and to reach out
to local municipalities, county commissioners, conservation districts, recycling centers,
watershed groups, school districts, local businesses, and many others for assistance in planning
our spring clean up schedule.
Here’s a look at the dumpsite cleanup statistics from the spring:
— 15 illegal dumpsites were cleaned up;
— Removed and properly disposed of 10.79 tons of trash;
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— Recycled 5.7 tons of scrap metal;
— Recycled 21.93 tons of tires;
— 253 volunteers worked 1,136 hours; and
— One contractor cleaned up two sites that were too hazardous for volunteers.
Illegal dumping of waste not only negatively impacts the environment, but also degrades
the character of our neighborhoods and the quality of life for our local residents. Dumpsitesknow no bounds and include state game lands, state forests, state parks, waterways of all sizes,
private property, and county and municipal lands.
Illegally dumped trash is a detriment to the water quality of local streams and rivers and
can reduce drainage of runoff due to blockage of streams, culverts, and drainage basins, and can
lead to flooding and channel modification. Economically, property values decrease as a result of
illegal dumping which affects the local tax base.
Along with ruining the beauty of natural areas, illegal dumping pollutes our soil, surface,
and groundwater supplies, as well as the air we breathe.
Consider coming out to help your community by cleaning up these sites!
For more information, contact Janet Sweeney by sending email to: [email protected]
or call 570-718-6507.NewsClips:
NJ: Electronics Waste Piles Up, Environmental Risk Grows
Wolf Administration Seeks Legal Help On HBG Debt Claims
(Reprinted from the PA Environmental Council Blog .)
DEP Takes Control Of Cleanup At Illegal Dump Sites In Carbon, Schuylkill Counties
DEP's Northeast Regional Office decided to step in and clean up
six piles of illegally dumped debris on several properties
throughout the Poconos. The cleanup took place on July 14.
The piles were dumped last summer at six locations throughout
Carbon and Schuylkill counties; one of the sites is near the Lehigh
River outside of Lehighton where tourists come to row and raft on
weekends.
DEP used funds from the Solid Waste Abatement Fund to clean
up the piles. Hazelton Recycling Service and URS were hired to
haul the waste to IESI Landfill in Northampton County.
A total of 550-cubic yards of construction and demolition debris along with some
household garbage were hauled away from the six sites.
NewsClips: NJ: Electronics Waste Piles Up, Environmental Risk Grows
Wolf Administration Seeks Legal Help On HBG Debt Claims
(Reprinted from the July 23 DEP News . Click Here to sign up for your own copy.)
July 28 Hearing On Proposed Frey Farm Landfill Expansion, Lancaster County
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The Department of Environmental Protection will conduct a public hearing July 28 to receive
testimony on Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority’s application for a vertical
expansion and increase in average and maximum daily volumes of waste accepted for disposal at
the Frey Farm Landfill located in Manor Township, Lancaster County.
The public hearing will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at the Manor Township Municipal
Building, 950 West Fairway Drive, Lancaster, PA 17603. DEP will receive public testimony butwill not answer questions at the hearing.
Concerned citizens may also submit written testimony by 4 p.m. on August 7 to John
Oren, Permits Chief for the Waste Management Program, DEP Southcentral Regional Office,
909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17110.
DEP will prepare a written a comment response document that will address all relevant
testimony provided during the public hearing and comment period, and consider all relevant
comments in its review of the application.
Individuals in need of an accommodation as provided for in the Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990 should contact DEP at 717-705-4703 or make accommodations through
the Pennsylvania AT&T Relay Service at 1-800-654-5984 (TDD).
NewsClips: NJ: Electronics Waste Piles Up, Environmental Risk Grows
Wolf Administration Seeks Legal Help On HBG Debt Claims
Wolf Administration Publishes First Regulatory Agenda
The Governor’s Office published the semi-annual Regulatory Agenda in the July 25 PA Bulletin
( beginning on page 4063 ) outlining regulatory proposals each of the state agencies will be
working on over the next six months to a year.
This is the first Regulatory Agenda published by the Wolf Administration.
Among other regulatory changes to be proposed by the Department of Environmental
Protection over the next year, the agency will be proposing permit fee increases for the air
quality, noncoal and coal mining, radiation protection and laboratory accreditation programs.
The proposed fee increases were in process beginning in the Corbett Administration.
Among the proposals for environmental agencies are--
-- Dept. of Environmental Protection
-- Final Chapter 78, Chapter 78A Oil and Gas Program Regulations (1st Quarter 2016)
-- Final Land Reclamation Of Mine Sites With Bioenergy Crops (Adopted as Final)
-- Final Remining Regulations Update (1st Quarter 2016)
-- Final Total Coliform Regulation (3rd Quarter 2015)
-- Final Radioactive Material Security Rule (3rd Quarter 2015)
-- Final RACT NOx, VOC Controls (3rd/4th Quarter 2015)-- Final Disinfectant Residual Regulation (4th Quarter 2015)
-- Final Land Recycling Program Changes (4th Quarter 2015)
-- Proposed Nutrient Credit Trading and Offset Regulation Changes (1st Quarter 2016)
-- Proposed VOC Emissions From Industrial Cleaning Solvents (1st Quarter 2016)
-- Proposed Stage II VOC Controls Changes (1st Quarter 2016)
-- Proposed Low RVP Gasoline Standard Repeal (1st Quarter 2016)
-- Proposed Designate Clearfield Watershed as Unsuitable For Mining (1st Quarter 2016)
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-- Proposed Chapter 78 Subchapter D Oil and Gas Well Regulations (2nd Quarter 2016)
-- Proposed Sewage Change To Allow Alternate Systems In Planning (2nd Quarter 2016)
-- Proposed Changes To Explosives Regulations (3rd Quarter 2015)
-- Proposed Triennial Review Of Water Quality Standards (4th Quarter 2015)
-- Proposed Increase in Radiation Protection Fees (3rd Quarter 2015)
-- Proposed Increase in Air Quality Fees (4th Quarter 2015)-- Proposed Increase in Noncoal Coal Mining Permit Fees (4th Quarter 2015)
-- Proposed Increase in Coal Mining Permit Fees (4th Quarter 2015)
-- Proposed Increase in Laboratory Accreditation Fees (1st Quarter 2016)
-- Environmental Hearing Board
-- Revisions to its Rules of Practice and Procedures (Fall 2015)
-- Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources
-- Revisions to the Endangered, Threatened Species Plant List (September 2015)
-- PA Infrastructure Investment Authority
-- Proposed Changes to loan requirements, limitations (Summer 2015)
A copy of the Governor’s Regulatory Agenda is available in the PA Bulletin beginning
on page 4063 .
State Distributing Free Potassium Iodide Near Nuclear Power Plants Aug. 6
The Department of Health will offer free potassium iodide , or KI, tablets August 6 to
Pennsylvanians who are within 10 miles of one of the state's five nuclear power plants.
"If you live or work near a nuclear facility, KI tablets should be an essential part of your
emergency preparedness plan and go kit," said Secretary of Health Dr. Karen Murphy. "KI can
help protect the thyroid gland against harmful radioactive iodine when taken as directed during
radiological emergencies. But it's important to remember that the tablets should only be taken
when the Governor or state public health officials advise you to do so."
KI can be taken by anyone as long as they are not allergic to it. It is safe for pregnant
women and those who are breastfeeding, people on thyroid medicine, children and infants.
Individuals who are unsure if they should take potassium iodide should ask a health care
provider.
KI tablets will be available between 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on August 6 at the
distribution sites below. No appointments are necessary.
— Beaver Valley Power Station
Center at the Mall, 284 Beaver Valley Mall Blvd., Monaca
-- Limerick Generating Station
Keystone Fire Company, 240 N. Walnut St., Boyertown
Pottstown Health Center, 364 King St., PottstownThe Montgomery County Health Department is also offering KI tablets at the following location
from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on August 6:
— Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station
Peach Bottom Community Center, 5 Pendyrus St., Delta
East Drumore Township Building, 925 Robert Fulton Highway, Quarryville
— Susquehanna Steam Electric Station
Butler Township Community Center, 415 W. Butler Drive, Drums
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Luzerne County Community College, Public Safety Training Institute, 1333 S. Prospect St.,
Nanticoke
Salvation Army, 320 W. 2nd St., Berwick
— Three Mile Island Generating Station
Fairview Township Fire Department, 340 Lewisberry Road, New Cumberland
Londonderry Township Building, 783 S. Geyers Church Road, MiddletownMasonic Village, Freemasons Cultural Center, 1 Masonic Drive, Elizabethtown
Mohler Senior Center, 25 Hope Drive, Hershey
Union Fire Company No. 1, 201 York St., Manchester
During the distribution, each adult will receive four 65-milligram tablets. Children will be
given smaller doses based on their age. Individuals can pick up the tablets for other family
members or those who are unable to pick them up on their own.
Directions detailing when to take the tablets and how to store them will be provided with
the KI. Health department staff will be on site to answer questions.
KI is also available for those who work within the 10-mile radius, but do not live there.
Employers can contact the Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH to make arrangements
to pick up tablets for their entire workforce.School districts within the 10-mile radius have the option of deciding whether to
distribute KI for their students. Interested schools work directly with the department to obtain
their supply of tablets.
KI tablets are available throughout the year at county and municipal health departments
or state health centers located within the 10-mile radius.
Pennsylvania's five nuclear power plants are closely regulated, secure and
well-maintained. The facilities are: Beaver Valley Power Station (Beaver County), Limerick
Generating Station (Montgomery County), Peach Bottom Atomic Power Station (York County),
Susquehanna Steam Electric Station (Luzerne County), and Three Mile Island Generating Station
(Dauphin County).
More details on evacuation routes and power plant fact sheets are available on the PA
Emergency Management Agency website.
For more information, visit the Department of Health website or call 1-877-PA-HEALTH
(1-877-724-3258).
NewsClips:
Benefits Program Still Seeking Sick Nuclear Workers
New Test Shows Little Radiation In Ten Mile Creek
Radiation Tests In Ten Mile Creek Yield Conflicting Results
Mystery Continues Over Radioactivity In Western PA Stream
DEP Holds First Meeting Of Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force
The Department of Environmental Protection Wednesday held the first meeting of the
48-member Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force which was primarily used as an organization and
introductory meeting.
DEP Secretary John Quigley provided an overview presentation on the Task Force and
Work Group organization, objectives and schedule of meetings for the Task Force.
“We are in the midst of a wave of energy development that is unlike any other in the
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state’s history. The Marcellus shale and shale gas resources generally – including the upcoming
Utica play - presents an immense economic opportunity for the Commonwealth,” said Quigley in
his opening remarks addressing the 48 member task force. “Gov. Wolf wants this industry to
succeed and recognizes that the infrastructure challenge is a major one and we need to work
together to find the win-win opportunities to connect these wells to markets.”
“As you look at the density of development that is occurring… there are profoundenvironmental and community impacts that we need to take into consideration,” said Quigley.
Quigley said the 110 additional members of the 12 Work Groups appointed with the Task
Force would do the bulk of the work, primarily by telephone conference call, in producing
recommendations in a series of reports to the Task Force for review and finalization.
The schedule outlined by Quigley has the Task Force producing a draft report for review
by November 2. A public comment period would be held in December on the draft with a final
report due to the Governor and the General Assembly in February.
Quigley said there would be a public comment period built into each meeting of the full
Task Force. In addition, a special email address would be set up for comments.
Ann Roda, Director of DEP’s Office Of Program Integration, gave an overview of the
work DEP’s Internal Oil and Gas Work Group is doing in support of the Task Force.Secretary Quigley then gave a follow-up presentation on “The Case For Smart Planning
In Pipeline Infrastructure Development.”
The next meeting of the 48-member Task Force will be on August 27 in the Susquehanna
Conference Rooms, DEP Southcentral Regional Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg, from 1
to 4:00.
For more information, visit DEP’s Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force webpage. An
archived video of the first meeting will also be available on the Task Force webpage.
NewsClips:
PA Gas Pipeline Group Gets To Work
Task Force Seeks To Manage Massive Buildout Of Pipelines
DEP Pipeline Group Starts Work
PEC Named To DEP Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force
Wilkes Prof Appointed To Governor’s Pipeline Task Force
PA’s New Pipeline Task Force Meets This Week
Pitts Asks About Pipeline Safety Reforms At Hearing
MarkWest Objects To Compressor Station Conditions
Camp Hill Firm Seeking 2nd Natural Gas Terminal Permit
Pipeline Opponent Guilty Of Disorderly Conduct
Editorial: Speaking Up Is Not A Crime
PennEast Pipeline Blocked From Mapping Land In NJ
Op-Ed: Marcellus Shale 2.0, Gas Infrastructure Feds Warn Railroads To Comply With Oil Train Notifications
CSX Provides Update On WV Oil Train Derailment
New PA Energy Infrastructure Alliance Formed
Members of the newly formed PA Energy Infrastructure Alliance Wednesday sent a letter
offering to be a resource to members of DEP’s Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force which met for
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the first time Wednesday.
PEIA was founded June 8 by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce, Delaware
County Chamber of Commerce, the Laborers International Union of North America and the
International Union of Operating Engineers Local 66.
Other PEIA members include the Pennsylvania State Grange, the oldest agricultural and
rural advocacy organization of its kind in the United States, and two other regional economicdevelopment groups, JARI and the Mon Valley Progress Council.
The full text of the letter follows:
Dear Members of the Pipeline Infrastructure Taskforce:
As an organization that supports investment on energy infrastructure projects in
Pennsylvania, we congratulate you on being selected to serve on Governor Wolf’s Pipeline
Infrastructure Task Force and support the important work ahead of you to help our state realize
its full energy potential and the benefits that come with it.
The Pennsylvania Energy Infrastructure Alliance (PEIA) is a broad-based coalition that
supports timely approval for critical energy infrastructure in the Commonwealth because these
projects serve the best interest of Pennsylvanians, our communities and the nation.
Pipeline projects provide many direct and indirect economic benefits, including tens ofthousands of construction jobs, millions in annual estimated tax revenue locally and statewide,
and recurring benefits to manufacturing and other industries that rely on affordable and reliable
energy supplies and petrochemicals.
Pennsylvania is now the second-ranking state in natural gas and natural gas liquids
production, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. However, our state only
has about 4 percent of the pipelines to move products to market at a time when demand is on the
rise.
A Harvard Business School report released in June titled “America’s Unconventional
Energy Opportunity” found that “Low-cost natural gas feedstocks have made the U.S.
competitive in petrochemicals, plastics, and inorganic chemicals, where $138 billion in new
U.S.-based investments has been announced.”
Two studies released just this month demonstrate how our state is uniquely positioned for
energy growth -- if we have the gas pipeline delivery system and other energy infrastructure in
place to meet this growing demand.
A study released by the Utica Shale Appalachian Basin Exploration Consortium reveals
that Utica Shale holds 20 times more gas than previously thought. A separate report by SNL
Energy shows that natural gas has surpassed coal and is now the top source of electric generation
in the U.S.
There is growing local and national awareness of Pennsylvania’s critical energy
infrastructure needs. Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter’s Manufacturing Task Force
released a 2013 report of recommendations to help make the Greater Philadelphia region a better place for manufacturing.
The report recommended an increase in the supply of natural gas and natural gas liquids
available to manufacturers in the city and region by increasing pipeline capacity, which will help
provide a strong competitive advantage to the chemical and petrochemical clusters.
Additionally, this past April, Pennsylvania was chosen as the site for Vice President
Biden’s April release of the inaugural Quadrennial Energy Review (QER) report, which calls for
as much as $3.5 billion of annual investment in interstate pipelines through 2030 to sustain
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long-term domestic energy production.
From the heads of local chambers of commerce, to labor organizations, to the agricultural
community, , and others, our coalition represents a broad range of interests and industries united
in support of pipelines as an indispensable component of the state’s economic future.
Through our various roles in our own communities, we have seen first-hand the direct
and indirect benefits of pipeline projects. We bring that important perspective as we work tohighlight how private investment in energy infrastructure can strengthen the state’s economy,
create jobs, and improve public safety when projects are properly designed, built and maintained.
According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, pipelines outperform all other types
of infrastructure in safety, efficiency, reliability, environmental stewardship, and cost. Pipelines
offer communities across the state the infrastructure solution to maximize the economic
opportunities in energy with the least amount of burden.
The hiring the local labor force to build large infrastructure projects must also be part of
our state’s approach to ensure that the economic benefits of energy development are invested
back in the state and local communities. These skilled laborers will make safety a top priority
because they are highly trained and happen to care about their communities, too.
As you conduct sessions with workgroup members and other stakeholders on the variousfocus areas, and prepare for monthly task force meetings, the members of our coalition would
like to avail ourselves as a resource. We offer additional expertise and local perspectives to
inform your recommendations and help identify best practices for the task force’s report to the
governor.
We look forward to working with you to ensure our state is prepared to sustain this
energy growth for the long-term.
For more information, visit the PA Energy Infrastructure Alliance website.
NewsClips:
PA Gas Pipeline Group Gets To Work
Task Force Seeks To Manage Massive Buildout Of Pipelines
DEP Pipeline Group Starts Work
PEC Named To DEP Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force
Wilkes Prof Appointed To Governor’s Pipeline Task Force
PA’s New Pipeline Task Force Meets This Week
Pitts Asks About Pipeline Safety Reforms At Hearing
MarkWest Objects To Compressor Station Conditions
Camp Hill Firm Seeking 2nd Natural Gas Terminal Permit
Pipeline Opponent Guilty Of Disorderly Conduct
Editorial: Speaking Up Is Not A Crime
PennEast Pipeline Blocked From Mapping Land In NJ
Op-Ed: Marcellus Shale 2.0, Gas Infrastructure Feds Warn Railroads To Comply With Oil Train Notifications
CSX Provides Update On WV Oil Train Derailment
DCNR Releases Update To Shale Gas Monitoring Report
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn Thursday
updated members of the Natural Gas Advisory Committee on the department’s ongoing efforts to
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monitor natural gas extraction and management on DCNR lands.
“Our Bureau of Forestry continues to provide updated information on the shale-gas
industry and its effect on state forestlands, focusing most recently on infrastructure and
associated acreages in its core shale-gas state forest districts,” Dunn said. “These updates to our
Bureau of Forestry Shale-Gas Monitoring Program, to be supplied on a regular basis, are
designed to help the committee continue providing valuable insight and expertise concerning thecomplex nature of natural gas management.
“As part of its overarching goal of ensuring sustainability of Pennsylvania’s forests,
DCNR established this program to monitor, evaluate, and report on the impacts of shale-gas
development to the state forest system and its stakeholders,” Dunn said. “It aims to provide
objective and credible information to the public and inform and improve shale-gas management
efforts.”
Noting the Natural Gas Advisory Committee was formed to “help identify concepts, best
practices and principles -- and assist in integrating them into the department’s natural gas
management efforts on DCNR lands,” Dunn said, “This monitoring update focusing on
infrastructure is snapshot of what our experts are tracking in the forest districts affected by the
natural gas industry through December 2014.”Key points outlined by the secretary to the 21-member committee included:
-- In 2013, 79 new wells were approved for drilling on state forestland and 47 in 2014. Through
the end of 2014, a total of 1,020 wells have been approved. To date, 608 wells have been drilled
on state forestland;
--In 2013, 19 new infrastructure pads (encompassing 73 acres) were constructed. Eight new
infrastructure pads (32 acres) were constructed in 2014. Since the onset of gas development, 755
acres have been converted for infrastructure pads;
-- Overall, four miles of new roads were constructed in 2013. In 2014, less than one mile of new
road was constructed, bringing the total miles of new roads to 36 since 2007. Acreage converted
for new roads and road modifications in 2013 totaled 22 acres; 16 acres in 2014. A total of 259
acres have been converted for new road construction and road modification to accommodate gas
development;
-- A total of 49 acres were converted for pipeline rights-of-way; 66 acres in 2014. Since 2007,
661 acres have been converted to pipeline ROW in these districts;
-- Total acreage converted to non-forest in the core gas districts in 2013 was 144 acres. For 2014,
114 acres were converted. Total conversion acreage for all types of development in the core gas
districts since the onset of shale gas development is 1,674 acres.
Detailed information, along with a variety of graphics, can be found in the Infrastructure
Chapter of the bureau’s Shale Gas Monitoring Report on the DCNR website . Background and
summarized data from 2007 to 2012 can be found on DCNR’s Shale Gas Monitoring webpage.
The Natural Gas Advisory Committee was formed to advise and providerecommendations for implementing natural gas management in a manner consistent with the
mission of DCNR and its bureaus. DCNR’s Bureau of Forestry assumed lead responsibility for
coordinating and facilitating its work.
NGAC is made up of 21 experts from a variety of backgrounds and organizations,
including conservation groups, universities, gas industry, environmental consultants and
recreation-related organizations.
“We look forward to continuing to work with representatives on the advisory committee
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to continually review, examine, and improve our best management practices related to gas
development,” Dunn said.
For more information about gas development on state forest lands visit DCNR’s Gas
Development on State Forests webpage.
NewsClips:
Shale Drillers On DCNR Land Pulled Back Again In 2014 Fewer Gas Wells Drilled In State Forests
Study Finds Negligible Radiation In Ten Mile Creek, Greene County
Rep. Pam Snyder (D-Fayette) Thursday said an independent analyses by the West Virginia
Water Research Institute found vastly reduced radiation levels in contrast to 2014 test results
from Ten Mile Creek in Greene County.
"This is the first of the exhaustive testing planned for the creek, but today's results
indicate no dangerous levels of radiation," said Rep. Snyder, who has pushed for increased
monitoring and analysis of the waterway, which supplies public water in the area. "No one is
resting easy, but it is encouraging that zero or negligible levels of Radium 226 and 228 weredetected."
Rep. Snyder said the results from June 25 testing at four sites found:
— No levels exceeding federal Safe Drinking Water Act limits;
— A gross alpha radiation -- energy released from decaying radioactive elements -- reading near
the Clyde Mine less than half of what was detected in the 2014 study;
— Zero traces of Radium 226 at Cumberland and Clyde mines' discharge sites;
— Fractional Radium 226 levels – well below SDWA limits -- at a Smith Creek tributary and at
Ten Mile Creek at Sugar Camp Road; and
— Only miniscule Radium 228 levels at all four testing sites.
"The results are highly technical, but I have been assured that they are generally
encouraging and should begin to reassure residents about the safety of Ten Mile Creek," Rep.
Snyder said. "Even those without a scientific background can see vastly diminished detection
levels from those publicized previously."
Rep. Snyder said the radionuclide sampling was performed by Pace Analytical Services
of Greensburg, and the results she was provided are available on her legislative website .
"The Institute cautions that uncertainty is inherent in radiation measurements because of
a number of factors, including varying laboratory methods," Rep. Snyder said. "However, the
general results -- radium levels well below federal drinking water standards – are positive."
Rep. Snyder said laboratory results from 35 samples collected last month from 13 sites by
the PA Department of Environmental Protection are expected next month.
"More test results are needed before anyone can draw any conclusions, but theindependent study is an encouraging development," Rep. Snyder said.
NewsClips:
New Test Shows Little Radiation In Ten Mile Creek
Radiation Tests In Ten Mile Creek Yield Conflicting Results
Mystery Continues Over Radioactivity In Western PA Stream
Benefits Program Still Seeking Sick Nuclear Workers
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Op-Ed: Here’s Where We Need To Go Next For Safe Hydraulic Fracturing
By Susan LeGros, Executive Director, Center For Sustainable Shale Development
After reviewing thousands of pages of scientific studies and data, EPA recently concluded that
the risk to groundwater from fracturing itself is small, but the process does involve risks, andidentified ways that drinking water could be impacted and managed.
EPA's determination appears consistent with the consensus of most in the academic,
regulatory and engineering communities, but concerns remain, and its conclusions leave many
wondering what should happen next.
Briana Mordick, a writer on the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) staff blog
noted on June 5:
"Can the risks of fracking ever be reduced to zero?
"No. Should we strive for that anyway? Yes."
She went on to say that "[O]perators and regulators ... should be using the results of this
study to find ways to reduce the multitude of risks to drinking water from hydraulic fracturing
that EPA identified."Our 15 Performance Standards for operators have been arrived at through their
collaborative efforts and identify leading practices intended to address the types of risks to water
identified in the EPA report …
That's what's next, or what should be. Several energy companies and environmental
groups in the Appalachian Basin have already stepped up to do just that.
They formed the Center for Sustainable Shale Development, and have been working
together for the last several years to define best operating practices that meet or exceed the
baseline established by state regulations.
Our 15 Performance Standards for operators have been arrived at through their
collaborative efforts and identify leading practices intended to address the types of risks to water
identified in the EPA report, as well as risks to air and climate associated with gas development.
We also provide a rigorous third-party, evaluation and verification program to certify
operators who demonstrate they meet these standards in the Appalachian Basin.
To protect surface and groundwater, CSSD's performance standards are intended to
reduce, if not totally eliminate, some risks to water supplies. Some of the best practices we
require are double-lining of water storage impoundments with leak detection systems, banning
use of open pits altogether on well sites, pre-drilling surveys and post-drilling monitoring, and
cementing and casing designed to isolate the well and prevent vertical movement of fluids.
Three major energy companies have been certified as meeting the CSSD standards. More
will go through this process.
In his recent hearing, John Quigley, Pennsylvania's Secretary of the Department ofEnvironmental Protection, pointed to CSSD and companies that have sought certification as
examples of continuous improvement and setting a higher bar. Broader adoption by gas
producers of the CSSD Performance Standards and the practice of undergoing certification audits
every two years would support the value of best practices and help mitigate risks associated with
shale gas development.
Companies involved in shale gas development must follow the highest operational
standards to protect the environment. Constructive and responsible collaboration among industry,
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environmental and community organizations is the most likely way to establish and advance
those best practices.
We believe that by advancing environmental excellence in this way, we can improve the
net social benefit of energy.
NewsClips:
DEP Issues 374 NOVs For Failure To Do Gas Well Integrity Reports DEP: Orphan Gas, Oil Wells A Cause For Concern
Butler County Families File Suit Against XTO Energy
Hospital Visits Increase In Bradford, Susquehanna
Protect PT Takes On Fracking In Penn Twp
Camp Hill Firm Seeking 2nd Natural Gas Terminal Permit
Study Shows More Hospital Stays In 3 Fracking Counties
Op-Ed: PA Has Potential To Be An Energy Powerhouse
Op-Ed: Natural Gas Economic Benefits For Southcentral PA
Feds Warn Railroads To Comply With Oil Train Notifications
CSX Provides Update On WV Oil Train Derailment
The Center For Sustainable Shale Development has certified three companies as meeting its
performance standards: Chevron, Shell and Consol .
DEP Regional Citizens' Roundtable Tours New Panda Patriot Natural Gas Power Plant
On July 20, DEP's Northcentral Regional Citizens'
Roundtable held its annual group dinner and field trip to the
new 829-megawatt Panda Patriot natural gas-fired power
plant under construction in Clinton Township, Lycoming
County.
The tour was conducted by Panda Construction Manager
Shannon Poulter, and two other members of his staff.
Plant construction began in December 2013 and is expected
to be substantially complete by mid-2016.
It is Panda's second plant being built in northcentral
Pennsylvania. The other facility, Panda Liberty , is located in Asylum Township, Bradford
County.
The Patriot plant has created approximately 500 construction jobs and will result in 27
direct jobs to operate the plant and 45 indirect jobs to support the plant. It will utilize the latest,
most advanced emissions-control technology, making it one of the cleanest natural gas-fueled
power plants in the U.S., and use Siemens H-class gas turbines — the world's first generationtechnology to achieve operating efficiencies of 60 percent.
The plant design will minimize sound using special blade designs, low-output motors and
building enclosures and will be cooled with air rather than water, thus not drawing water from, or
discharging water into, the Susquehanna River. This eliminates potential impacts to sensitive
species in the watershed.
The combined-cycle plant is expected to supply the power needs of up to 1 million
homes.
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NewsClips:
Shell Ethane Plant Would Generate Its Own Electricity
Camp Hill Firm Seeking 2nd Natural Gas Terminal Permit
(Reprinted from the July 23 DEP News . Click Here to sign up for your own copy.)
Small Business Advantage Pollution Prevention, Energy Efficiency Grants Now Available
The Department of Environmental Protection is now accepting applications for its Small
Business Advantage Grants to help fund pollution prevention or energy efficiency projects.
( formal notice )
The Program is a first-come, first-serve grant program that provides up to 50 percent
reimbursement matching grants, up to a maximum of $9,500. Eligible projects must save the
small business a minimum of $500 and at least 25 percent annually in energy consumption or
pollution related expenses.
An eligible applicant must have 100 or fewer employees, be a for-profit small business
owner and be taxed as a for-profit business located within this Commonwealth. The project towhich the grant will apply must be located within the applicant's Commonwealth facility.
DEP will begin accepting applications on July 27.
Visit DEP’s Small Business Advantage Grant Program webpage for more information or
send questions to: [email protected] .
U.S. DOE, Pittsburgh Sign MOU On Creating Next Generation Energy Solutions
Pittsburgh Mayor William Peduto Friday signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the
National Energy Technology Laboratory on behalf of the U.S. Department of Energy on joint
efforts to design 21st Century energy infrastructure for Pittsburgh.
Mayor Peduto and NETL Director Grace Bochenek signed the memorandum at an event
with Secretary of Energy Ernest Moniz and U.S. Rep. Mike Doyle at the Energy Innovation
Center in the Hill District.
"This agreement establishes a new working relationship to upgrade Pittsburgh's aging
electrical grid with 21st century technologies and solutions. This link between NETL and the city
will position Pittsburgh to lead the nation in next-generation energy strategies and to build one of
the largest integrated district energy ecosystems in North America. Today at the Energy
Innovation Center we saw the possibilities for Pittsburgh to be a leader in new energy
technologies, and this agreement will only help accelerate their development," Secretary Moniz
said.
“You don’t have to look very far to see that much of our nation’s infrastructure is old andin poor repair. That’s true for our energy infrastructure as well – in fact, many of our power lines
and gas pipes are literally antiques! What’s more, while these energy systems have served us
well for decades, they’re terribly inefficient, and that means we’re producing more pollution and
greenhouse gas emissions than we need to,” said Congressman Doyle.
“We’ve made a lot of technological advances since those systems were originally
designed and installed, and I think it’s essential for our nation to develop and adopt innovative
new models for meeting our energy needs in a more efficient, economical, and environmentally
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sustainable way.
“With our aging infrastructure and our many local leaders in advanced technology,
Pittsburgh is a logical place to develop and test potential improvements over the current model
for energy production and distribution. This Memorandum of Understanding is an exciting first
step in what could be a major paradigm shift in the way we make and use energy – and it could
make Pittsburgh a leader in this important emerging field,” the Congressman continued.The partnership arose from a meeting Mayor Peduto called in May of this year with
representatives from the Department of Energy, Allegheny County Executive Rich Fitzgerald’s
office, NRG Pittsburgh, the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, the Heinz
Endowments, R.K. Mellon Foundation and others to pursue ways to make long-term
improvements to the City’s energy infrastructure systems.
The MOU text says it “will serve to position Pittsburgh as a demonstrated national and
global leader in new technology development and demonstration and application of strategic
models. The outcomes of this MOU will help modernize delivery of utility services through new
business models and markets, grow technology research and development opportunities and
product manufacturing, reduce environmental impacts, enhance resilience and security through
integrated district-based microgrid solutions, address affordability for consumers, and encourageworkforce development.”
Municipalities across the United States are facing issues with their aging electric and gas
lines and other energy infrastructure, and studies show that 60 percent of the energy moved along
such lines is lost during transmission.
To address that cities such as Pittsburgh are looking to develop energy infrastructure on a
smaller district scale that optimizes delivery, creates resiliency in the grid system and minimizes
disruption. District scale energy also delivers cleaner and more efficient energy to customers and
benefits economic development.
The MOU will assist local universities in researching and developing energy solutions;
support energy-related businesses in Pittsburgh and those seeking to relocate to the city; and will
create the foundation to integrate 21st Century energy technology and infrastructure into
large-scale developments in Hazelwood, the Lower Hill District and Uptown.
And it gives the City the opportunity to build on existing systems like Duquesne
University's Combined Heat and Power facility, and modernize others such as Pittsburgh
Allegheny County Thermal and others in Oakland and the North Side.
The agreement with NETL and DOE builds upon the U.S. Department of Commerce
designation of Pittsburgh last week as an Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership
region.
Like the IMCP designation, Friday’s action will help leverage local research and
development work, manufacturing resources, job training and other assets to deploy the latest in
energy innovation.“Pittsburgh is gaining a global reputation as an urban lab with the resources and
know-how to pursue innovation that helps us all, from workers seeking job training to families
seeking clean water to businesses offering cutting-edge products and services. We could never
have accomplished that without great partners, and I’m happy that NETL and DOE are the latest
to join with us,” Mayor Peduto said.
The MOU lays out the following goals:
— Crafting a strategic plan that does the following: a) assists in the identification, decision
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support, and adoption of district energy strategies, including the development, demonstration,
and deployment of next generation energy solutions and electric power delivery technologies;
and b) supplies near-, mid-, and long-term guidance for public and private audiences on the
development of district scale clean energy and grid design strategies, with a focus on combined
heat and power and distributed energy resources;
— Identifying the appropriate financial mechanism to provide a catalyst and underwriteinvestment in the design and construction for district energy systems, adoption of monitoring and
automation technologies, advanced intelligent infrastructure, and renewable energy deployment.
— Designing a policy plan that supports the development of municipal, utility and regulatory
needs for district energy applications and infrastructure modernization;
— Conducting economic analysis that presents cost/benefits of district energy solutions with
micro-grid integration and building performance policies;
— Accelerating the growth of and access to energy jobs;
— Forming a technical team to explore Pittsburgh’s efforts; and
— Preparing a technology research and development roadmap for rapid demonstration and
deployment.
A power point presentation on Pittsburgh district energy resources and opportunities isavailable online .
NewsClips:
Moon School Districts Considers Solar Panels
Problems, Myths Of Solar-Electric Discussed In York
DEP Offers Free Energy Efficiency Training, Express Your Interest Now!
The Department of Environmental Protection is offering two free energy efficiency training
opportunities for facility managers and HVAC technicians at K-12 schools and local
governments throughout Pennsylvania's northern tier.
Both training opportunities— Building Operator Certification and Building Retuning—
are funded by a grant from the U.S. Dept. of Energy.
BOC is geared to those with two or more years of experience in building operations. The
course consists of eight, 8-hour classroom sessions focused on HVAC systems and controls,
fundamentals for efficient lighting, and indoor environmental quality.
In addition to the 64 hours of in-classroom instruction, there are also open-book,
multiple-choice exams and several homework assignments. Upon successful completion of the
course, participants will receive their BOC credential.
The value of this free training opportunity is $1,695 per person!
BRT is a systematic approach to finding low-to-no-cost energy efficiency improvements
in buildings and consists of approximately 20 hours of instruction for a small cohort of 8 to 12facility managers.
Dates and locations have not yet been established for these training workshops. The
workshops will be located where the level of interest is greatest. If you are interested in BOC or
BRT, please contact DEP’s Heidi Kunka at 717-783-9989 or [email protected] .
NewsClips:
Energy Conference Draws Sustainability-Minded
Editorial: Clean Power Goals Realistic
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Outrage Over Federal Clean Power Rules Fades As States Find Fixes
Benefits Program Still Seeking Sick Nuclear Workers
Shell Ethane Plant Would Generate Its Own Electricity
Tension Between West Penn, Lineman Shows Perils Of Job
Connellsville OKs Permit For Natural Gas, Electric Solicitation
(Reprinted from the July 23 DEP News . Click Here to sign up for your own copy.)
July 23 DEP News Now Available
The July 23 edition of DEP News is now available from the Department of Environmental
Protection featuring articles on--
-- Secretary Quigley Chairs First Meeting Of Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force
-- PA Officials Reiterate Commitment To Clean Water, Chesapeake Bay Cleanup
-- DEP Lifts Drought Watch In Pennsylvania
-- 3 PA Farms Receive PACD Clean Water Farm Awards
-- DEP Takes Control Of Cleanup At Illegal Dumps In Carbon, Schuylkill Counties -- DEP Offers Free Energy Efficiency Training, Express Your Interest Now!
-- DEP Regional Citizens Roundtable Tours New Panda Natural Gas Power Plant
-- Click Here to sign up for your own copy.
Environmental Author, Strategist Speaking At Duquesne Sustainability Graduation
Thirty members of Duquesne University’s MBA Sustainability Program will be inspired at their
graduation ceremony by globe-trotting environmentalist Paula DiPerna .
One of the most respected strategic global environmental and philanthropic policy
advisors and writers in her field, DiPerna will be the keynote speaker at Duquesne’s eighth MBA
Sustainability diploma ceremony on Friday, July 3, at 2 p.m. in the Power Center.
A leader of many notable organizations, DiPerna has guided the international division of
the Chicago Climate Exchange, the Joyce Foundation and the Cousteau Society. An explorer,
frequent public speaker and academic panelist, DiPerna also is a guest lecturer and teacher.
“We are thrilled to have Paula DiPerna with us as our commencement speaker,” said Dr.
Robert Sroufe, Murrin Chair of Global Competitiveness in Duquesne’s John F. Donahue
Graduate School of Business. “As a strategic global environmental advisor to the CDP (formerly
known as the Carbon Disclosure Project) and other leading sustainability organizations, she will
be sharing first-hand information on carbon pricing, finance and investing, while also connecting
our students and MBA Sustainability program to global organizations actively reimagining the
future of business management.”Duquesne’s MBA Sustainability program has been ranked first in the United States and
eighth in the world for integrating sustainability into the curriculum by Corporate Knights, a
quarterly international publication focused on social, economic and ecological benefits and costs.
This graduating cohort's fall theme, Designing the Corporation of the Future, and the
overarching emphasis of the program focus on re-designing the future of business and calls for
systems and business models that align practices with the diverse interests of society, the
environment and shareholders.
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“During this cohort’s lifetime, these individuals and their generation will rewire the entire
world with clean energy, redesign sustainable cities and high performing buildings, upcycle
products as part of a circular economy, reimagine the global food system and reinvent
transportation,” said Sroufe. “They will create millions of jobs, help lift billions of people out of
poverty, protect integrity in creation and shape a just and prosperous future. The Duquesne MBA
Sustainability lays the foundation for this work.”For more information, visit Duquesne University’s MBA Sustainability Program
webpage.
July 30 Hearing On Short Term Air Emission Plan For the Homer City Power Station
The Department of Environmental Protection will hold a public hearing July 30 to hear from
residents on the new pollution control measures for the Homer City Power Station in Indiana
County.
The hearing will be held from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Homer-Center High School
Auditorium, 70 Wildcat Lane, Homer City, PA 15748.
Homer City Generation is preparing to begin operation of its Novel IntegratedDesulfurization dry scrubber systems which are designed to control Sulfur Dioxide and other air
contaminants from units 1 and 2 at Homer City Power Station in Center and Black Lick
Townships.
DEP will hear testimony on its proposed intent to issue a plan approval to HCG to
establish temporary alternative SO2 emission limits during the startup, initial operation and/or
intermittent periods of operation of the NID dry scrubber system at the Homer City Power
Station.
During the first hour, both DEP and HCG will make brief presentations followed by a
question and answer session. Members of the public will also have an opportunity to provide
testimony on the plan approval.
Those wishing to provide formal comments must register with Community Relations
Coordinator John Poister either by email to: [email protected] or call 412-442-4203 before 3:00
p.m. on the day of the hearing. There will also be an opportunity to register onsite before the
hearing begins.
Those unable to attend the hearing may submit written comments to the Department of
Environmental Protection, 400 Waterfront Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15222. The public comment
period closes August 10, 2015.
NewsClips:
Energy Conference Draws Sustainability-Minded
Editorial: Clean Power Goals Realistic
Outrage Over Federal Clean Power Rules Fades As States Find Fixes Benefits Program Still Seeking Sick Nuclear Workers
Shell Ethane Plant Would Generate Its Own Electricity
Tension Between West Penn, Lineman Shows Perils Of Job
Connellsville OKs Permit For Natural Gas, Electric Solicitation
Outdoor Recreation, PA Waterways Subject Of PEC TV Program Now Online
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Outdoor recreation on Pennsylvania’s waterways is the topic of conversation in the second
“Environmental Focus,” a half-hour television talk show from the PA Environmental Council.
The program is now available online for viewing.
The show, which debuted on the Pennsylvania Cable Network on July 12, features one of
the first one-on-one interviews with Cindy Adams Dunn, the new secretary of the Department of
Conservation and Natural Resources.In this interview, Secretary Dunn discusses her views on Pennsylvania’s waterways and
the role they play in outdoor recreation across the Commonwealth. Following her interview, a
roundtable discussion on outdoor recreation will include National Park Service outdoor
recreation planner Jackie Kramer, Eric Martin, owner of Wilderness Voyageurs, and Patrick
Starr, executive vice president of the PA Environmental Council.
“Pennsylvania’s watersheds are a crucial aspect of our Commonwealth’s environment,”
Starr said. “Not only is this installment of ‘Environmental Focus’ an educational tool for the
viewers at home, but also a great way for the panelists to engage in productive discussion to
better Pennsylvania’s environment.
“We think ‘Environmental Focus’ is an effective tool for reaching important audiences
and openly discussing the issues, ideas, and challenges facing the Pennsylvania environment,”PEC president and CEO Davitt Woodwell said, “And PEC hopes to lead the discussion on these
issues in ways that elevate the debate in a thoughtful, transparent, and productive way.”
To view the debut episode of “Environmental Focus” on the Pennsylvania state budget
from May, Click Here .
NewsClips:
The Circuit Trails Win USA TODAY’s Best Urban Trail Recognition
DCNR Halts Efforts To Restore Lake At Ryerson Station State Park
DCNR Will Not Rebuild Lake Dam At Ryerson Station State Park
Shale Drillers On DCNR Land Pulled Back Again In 2014
Fewer Gas Wells Drilled In State Forests
State Park Beaches Closed After 29 Swimmers Get Sick
Major Funding Announced For Delaware Valley Trails
Letter: Rename Moon Lake To Honor Pat Solano
Delaware Water Gap: Adams Creek Trail Closed
Editorial: Discover Presque Isle In Many Ways
Students In Goddard Leadership Legacy Institute Explored LeTort Spring Run In Carlisle
The Central PA Conservancy reported Friday the students
(age 13-15) and staff participating in the Goddard
Leadership Legacy Institute enjoyed a wonderful week of
good weather and programming at Pine Grove Furnace State
Park and beyond.
Residing at the Ironmaster's Mansion in Cumberland
County, the 2015 class of students demonstrated an
impressive team dynamic and an understanding of the local
watershed, fostered throughout the week.
A few of the week's highlights include--
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-- DAY 1: Ropes Course at Camp Thompson, Nature Journaling Exercise, and Leadership
Development Workshop;
-- DAY 2: Water Quality Monitoring on the LeTort Spring Run, Kayak Trip, Chesapeake Bay
watershed program;
-- Day 3: LeTort Bird Walk with Appalachian Audubon, Cumberland Valley Trout Unlimited
Stream Restoration Demo, Dickinson College Center for Sustainability Education Campus Tour,
Farmers Market in Carlisle, and AT Museum Tour;
-- DAY 4: Dickinson College Farm Program, Michaux State Forest Tour with DCNR Foresters,
Archery with Safari Club; and
-- DAY 5: Final Presentations to Local Leaders and Luncheon.
In their team projects, students were asked to develop an informational artwork poster,
choosing a word that reflected a conservation value or function found at the headwaters of the
LeTort (currently under a purchase option agreement with the Central PA Conservancy), and use
that poster to educate, engage, and empower members of the community to build support for the
acquisition and restoration of the site.
At the end of the week, teams presented to local leaders, including representatives of the
Chesapeake Bay Foundation , Appalachian Audubon
, the Chris Thorpe Foundation
,
Shippensburg University, and a leadership development consultant.
The Conservancy was delighted that so many local organizations have sponsored
scholarships for these students, including Appalachian Audubon, the Chris Thorpe Foundation in
Carlisle, the Cumberland County Conservation District, and the Friends of Pine Grove Furnace
State Park .
Next Year’s Program
Spread the word about the Goddard Leadership Legacy Institute to teachers, parents, and
students ages 13-15 for next year. The program is tentatively scheduled for June 10-15, 2016.
Other Conservancy Accomplishments
The Conservancy also reported on these accomplishments in its July newsletter--
-- Purchase Option Secured At Headwaters Of LeTort Spring Run
-- DCNR Grant Assures Outreach Efforts On The Kittatinny Ridge Over 3 Years
For more information about programs and activities, visit the Central PA Conservancy
website.
NewsClip: Villanova Group Tackles Madagascar’s Water Issues
The Circuit Trails Show Increased Use, Wins USA TODAY’s Best Urban Trail
The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission Thursday released the first year of data
from its permanent bicycle and pedestrian counters that have been placed on 11 trails around
Greater Philadelphia.Bulletin: The Circuit Trails just won USA TODAY’s Best Urban Trail Recognition
Thanks to generous support from the William Penn Foundation , the permanent counters
enable the Commission to collect continuous volume data around The Circuit – the region’s
network of multiuse trails – and identify areas in need of additional bicycle facilities.
The five trails with the highest combined bicycle and pedestrian volumes for a one-year
period are:
— Schuylkill River Trail at Kelly Drive – 663,201;
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— Chester Valley Trail – 240,182;
— Schuylkill River Trail at Pawlings Road – 208,180;
— Wissahickon Trail – 208,114; and
— Cynwyd Heritage Trail – 114,619.
The data collected by the permanent bicycle and pedestrian counters shows significant
use of these regional transportation assets. DVRPC maintains one of the nation’s mostwidespread bicycle and pedestrian counting programs.
The counters combine a passive infrared sensor, which detects body heat, with an
inductive loop, which detects the metallic signature of bicycle wheels, to provide a count of
pedestrian and cyclists, including their travel direction.
This technology paves the way for the introduction in Philadelphia of real-time “bicycle
barometers” that simultaneously collect data and encourage bicycle use due to their prominent
visibility and digital displays.
“We are proud that Greater Philadelphia is among the first regions in the country to
install permanent bicycle and pedestrian counters,” said DVRPC Executive Director, Barry
Seymour. “We hope to explore additional opportunities to invest in measurement technology and
support the strong demand for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure that this data suggests.”To learn more about bicycle and pedestrian count program, visit the DVRPC website .
Future interactive map and data releases will be posted online .
For more information on using the Delaware Valley trails, visit The Circuit website.
NewsClips:
The Circuit Trails Just Won USA TODAY’s Best Urban Trail Recognition
Major Funding Announced For Delaware Valley Trails
Letter: Rename Moon Lake To Honor Pat Solano
Delaware Water Gap: Adams Creek Trail Closed
Editorial: Discover Presque Isle In Many Ways
PEC Pocono Forest & Waters Conservation Landscape Mini-Grants Awarded
The Pocono Forest and Waters Conservation Landscape Assistance Program Thursday
announced the award of its 2015 mini-grants, according to the PA Environmental Council. The
grants were awarded to:
-- Anthracite Scenic Trails Association – Survey and title work for a proposed trail alignment
of the Back Mountain Trail in Luzerne Borough to the Levee Trail System in Edwardsville
Borough.
-- Rail Trail Council of NEPA – Purchase and installation of three bicycle racks and three
picnic tables for D&H Trailheads and scenic areas along the Lackawanna River.
-- Diamond City Partnership –
Creation of a modular wayfinding signage system to directdowntown visitors and improve access to and between downtown Wilkes-Barre, the D&L Trail,
the Susquehanna Water Trail, riverfront parks, and state parks and forests.
-- Live Well Luzerne/Wilkes-Barre Family YMCA – Development of parks, trails and river
superhero characters and a Superparks! website to promote the benefits of public lands for
environmental and personal health, and especially mental wellness throughout the conservation
landscape.
-- Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority – Creation and installation of directional signage
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and interpretive kiosks along the Lackawanna River Heritage Trail from Market Street to Green
Ridge Street to educate trail users of the site’s environmental history and features, amenities
nearby, the innovate natural play area, and trail map detailing points of interest, and connections
ahead to improve the overall experience of trail users.
-- Delaware Highlands Conservancy – Creation of a short call to action video that draws parallels
between the clarity and purity of our minds with the cleanliness of the water. The video willleverage an organized river clean-up day with an interview with Gen Samten – a respected
Buddhist monk - and visuals of the Delaware and Lackawaxen rivers. Viewers will be
encouraged to share their own videos, pictures, and stories about how they protect water in the
Upper Delaware River region.
-- Pike County Office of Community Planning – Update and printing of the extremely popular
Pike Outdoors guide and development of an interactive mobile application to go along with the
updated paper version.
-- Countryside Conservancy – Development of educational and informative signage in select
areas along the Countryside Conservancy’s Trolley Trail. Signage pieces will depict actual
scenes and/or historical postcards from the Northern Electric Trolley era.
-- Greater Hazleton Area Civic Partnership – Design and create a picnic area to enhance thetrailhead of the Greater Hazleton Rails to Trails.
A review committee met and ranked the applicants using a grant scoring criteria to
determine the selections.
Thanks to funding provided by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources,
the program was able to award a combined $60,000 to the mini-grantees, who have until August
31, 2016 to complete the projects.
Under the Pocono Forest and Waters Conservation Landscape, PEC has implemented a
mini-grant program that funds projects that support the conservation landscape’s goals of
conservation, connections, and community.
For more information, visit the Pocono Forest and Waters Conservation Landscape
Assistance Program webpage.
Health Concerns Close Lake At Cowans Gap State Park, Fulton County
The departments of Health and Conservation and Natural Resources Wednesday announced the
beach at Cowans Gap State Park , Fulton County, has been closed for swimming until further
notice. The park remains open for camping and other activities.
The decision to close the beach, effective Wednesday, came after reports of more than
two dozen cases of gastrointestinal illness suspected of being norovirus. According to current
information, the cases occurred in persons who reported swimming in the lake between July 18
and July 19.“Ensuring the health and safety of state park visitors is our main concern,” said
Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn. “While it is
very unfortunate that we must close a major recreational aspect of this beautiful park at the
height of the summer recreational season, we must take all precautions to ensure the lake water is
safe.”
The secretary noted lake water has been tested regularly twice a week since swimming
began this summer. Test results noting high Escherichia coli counts resulted in the lake closing
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three days earlier this month.
In mid-August 2011, the lake was closed to water activities for the remainder of the
season after several people were severely sickened after swimming in the lake.
The beach is being closed today as a precautionary measure to protect the public’s health
and safety until a thorough investigation can be completed.
“We take these cases very seriously,” said Department of Health Secretary KarenMurphy. “Protecting the health of our citizens is our top priority.”
Norovirus is a contagious virus that is passed from an infected person, contaminated food
or water, or by touching contaminated surfaces. Symptoms are stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea
and vomiting.
DOH requests the public to help prevent the spread of norovirus and other diseases. Stay
out of the water if you have diarrhea. It is preferable that small children in diapers, whether or
not they have diarrhea, be kept out of the water. And as general advice, DOH recommends that
swimmers and other lake users do not swallow lake water.
DOH also recommends that anyone who has visited the park and experiences diarrhea
should contact their healthcare provider, their local health department or the Pennsylvania
Department of Health at 1-877-PA-HEALTH (877-724-3258).Surrounded by Buchanan State Forest, Cowans Gap State Park draws more than 440,000
visitors annually. The lake, large campground, rustic cabins and many hiking trails are prime
attractions.
NewsClip: State Park Beaches Closed After 29 Swimmers Get Sick
Brodhead Creek Watershed Assn Hosts 2 Hikes On August 29 In Monroe County
The free hiking series Get Outdoors Poconos by the Brodhead Creek Watershed Association
continues August 29 in Barrett Township, Monroe County with two hikes .
The first option is for hikers who like a challenge: a scramble up Mount Wismer.
Participants will hike trails passing by deliciously ripe blueberries, a boulder field, milkweed in
bloom and the butterflies it attracts, native rhododendrons in full flower, and spring-fed pools.
The best reward: a wrap-around panorama view from the top.
Mount Wismer is a 90-acre preserve abutting the 170-acre Gravel Family Preserve,
where an easier hike will be held simultaneously. This family-friendly option is suitable for all
abilities, although the trail is occasionally wet. Participants will see a beautiful marsh.
The hikes are free, but registration is required. Call 570-839-1120 or 570-629-2727 or
email your name and contact information to: [email protected] (subject line: Mount
Wismer).
Click Here for more details.
NewsClips:The Circuit Trails Just Won USA TODAY’s Best Urban Trail Recognition
Major Funding Announced For Delaware Valley Trails
Letter: Rename Moon Lake To Honor Pat Solano
Delaware Water Gap: Adams Creek Trail Closed
Editorial: Discover Presque Isle In Many Ways
Health Department Calls For Increased Lyme Disease Awareness, Detection
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With Pennsylvania leading the nation in reported cases of Lyme disease , Department of Health
Secretary Karen Murphy Friday called for increased awareness about this serious disease and
outlined the Department 's efforts to combat tick-borne diseases in Pennsylvania.
"Every county in the state is affected by Lyme disease," said Murphy at a press
conference at Lackawanna State Park . "With many cases going unreported, it is critical that we provide people with information about this disease. The 'Don't Let a Tick Make You Sick'
campaign seeks to alert the public about this health problem and outline the department's efforts
to address it."
When detected early, Lyme disease can be treated with antibiotics. Left untreated, the
disease can spread to the joints, heart and nervous system. Early diagnosis is important in
preventing late-stage complications.
The first line of defense against Lyme is to take precautions in the outdoors by using
insect repellent with DEET, wearing long sleeve shirts and long pants, checking for - and
promptly and properly removing – any ticks, and showering shortly after exposure.
The recently-released 2014 Lyme statistics show increases in reported Lyme cases in
most counties in the state. For the past five years, Pennsylvania has lead the nation in reportedLyme disease cases.
Murphy said the findings and recommendations of the state's first-ever Lyme Disease
Task Force will be announced later this summer.
The task force, comprised of health experts and other stakeholders, was formed last year
through an act of the General Assembly. The task force is charged with investigating the problem
and developing recommendations regarding education and awareness, prevention and
surveillance of Lyme disease.
For more information, visit the Department of Health’s Lyme Disease webpage.
Snyder County Mosquito Spraying Set For July 27
The Department of Environmental Protection will be conducting an ultra-low volume (ULV)
mosquito control operation to reduce high populations of nuisance mosquitoes on July 27 in
Monroe Township, Snyder County .
The treatments will be administered via truck-mounted equipment, spraying residential
and recreational mosquito habitat. The equipment dispenses Biomist 3+15 ULV at a rate of 0.75
ounces per acre.
In 2015, West Nile virus has been detected in the following counties: Adams, Allegheny,
Berks, Blair, Bucks, Cambria, Centre, Chester, Clinton, Cumberland, Dauphin, Delaware,
Franklin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Luzerne, Lycoming, Montgomery, Northampton, Perry,
Philadelphia, Snyder, and York.Click Here for the complete announcement. Visit the West Nile Virus website for more
information.
Wildlands Conservancy Highlights August Programs
Campfires and shooting stars, greenway walks, a musikfest and National Honeybee Day are just
some of the special programs the Wildlands Conservancy has planned for August in and around
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Allentown, Bethlehem and Emmaus. Click Here for all the details.
Game Commission Seeks Input On Osprey Recovery Plan
The Game Commission is seeking public input on its draft Osprey Recovery And Management
Plan . Developed by biologists within the agency’s Wildlife Diversity Division, the osprey
recovery and management plan establishes management goals through 2025.
The mission of this plan is to establish and maintain a stable population of breeding
ospreys in Pennsylvania for current and future generations to enjoy.
For recovery of its population, the plan sets a goal of at least 50 nesting pairs with at least
four watershed-based population clusters of 10 pairs or more. This goal was determined by
comparing the amount of shallow water in Pennsylvania with states where the osprey recovery
goals have been set, and in comparison with the bald eagle which was considered recovered with
150 active nesting pairs. The osprey is a fish-eating raptor strongly associated with the
availability of shallow, still water.
Based on the plan, if the goal is met for two consecutive surveys, a recommendation
would be made to remove the osprey from the state’s threatened species list, and reclassify itsstatus as “recovered.”
The plan also sets goals for the protection of ospreys, and educating the public about
ospreys.
The osprey, which never was a common species in Pennsylvania or as widespread as the
bald eagle, is one of the great success stories in wildlife conservation.
Before its population collapse due to DDT exposure, the osprey was reported in summer
from 15 of the state’s 67 counties and nests were confirmed only in Beaver, Bucks, Clarion,
Delaware and possibly Wyoming counties.
The osprey was declared extirpated from Pennsylvania in 1982, but in 1985, when
nesting ospreys returned, it was reclassified as endangered.
Then during a 17-year restoration effort, a total of 300 birds were released in
Pennsylvania. In 1986 the first of these released birds nested successfully.
The population has continued to grow, and during the last survey period, 115 nests were
found.
The plan calls for continued management activities to promote population growth and
security for ospreys, exploring the relationship between breeding success and natural and
human-modified habitat characteristics, ensuring effective maintenance and enhancement of
artificial nesting sites, and promoting education of the general public about the osprey and its
habitat in Pennsylvania.
A copy of the Osprey Recovery and Management Plan is available online.
Public comments on the plan will be accepted through August 29, and can be sent byemail to: [email protected]; or by mail to Osprey Recovery and Management Plan, Pennsylvania
Game Commission, 2001 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg, PA 17110-9797.
NewsClips:
Osprey May Follow Eagles Being Declared Recovered
NE PA Audubon Hosts 30th Annual Festival
Peregrine Falcon Chick Hatched In Pittsburgh Dies
Ned Smith Center For Nature & Arts July 25 Festival
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Help Wanted: Berks Conservation District Looking To Fill Technician Position
The Berks County Conservation District is seeking qualified applicants for an Erosion and
Sedimentation Technician responsible for implementing several state-delegated regulatory
programs. those programs include Chapter 92 (NPDES), Chapter 102 (Erosion Control, PCSM(Stormwater) and Chapter 105 (Dam Safety and Waterway Management).
The deadline for applications is August 14. Click Here for a complete job description.
Applications should be sent to Tammy Bartsch by sending email to:
[email protected] or by mail to: Berks County Conservation District, 1238 County
Welfare Road, Suite 200, Leesport, PA 19533.
Office Space: PACD Has Office Space Available For Immediate Rent In Harrisburg
The PA Association of Conservation Districts has immediate office space available for rent
located at 25 North Front Street, Harrisburg PA and convenient to city, county and state
buildings.The available space is a two room office of 435 square feet at a cost of $775 per month,
which includes utilities and one parking spot. The rooms can leased separately or together.
For more information, please contact Brenda Shambaugh, Executive Director, by sending
email to: [email protected] or call 717-238-7223.
Public Participation Opportunities/Calendar Of Events
This section lists House and Senate Committee meetings, DEP and other public hearings and
meetings and other interesting environmental events.
NEW means new from last week. [Agenda Not Posted] means not posted within 2 weeks
of the advisory committee meeting. Go to the online Calendar webpage for updates.
July 28- Keep PA Beautiful Illegal Dump Free PA information meeting for stakeholders in
Bedford, Cambria, Somerset Counties. Windber Community Building Gym at 1605 Graham
Avenue in Windber, Somerset County. 4:30.
July 28-- Professional Recyclers OF PA Leading The Way To Zero Waste Workshop . Best
Western Premier in Harrisburg. Noon.
July 28-- NEW . DEP hearing on proposed Frey Farm Landfill Expansion , Lancaster County.
Manor Township Municipal Building, 950 West Fairway Drive, Lancaster. 7 to 9 p.m.
July 30-- DEP hearing on sulfur dioxide reduction limits for the Homer City Generating Station
in Indiana County. Homer-Center High School Auditorium, 70 Wildcat Lane, Homer City.
6:00-8:00. (formal notice June 20 PA Bulletin page 3241 ).
August 4-- CANCELED. DEP Environmental Justice Advisory Board meeting. Delaware
Room, 16th Floor, Rachel Carson Building. 8:30. ( formal cancellation notice )
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August 4-5-- Mid-Atlantic Invasive Plant Council Conference. Juniata College, Huntingdon
County. Click Here for more information.
August 5-- NEW . Agenda Posted . DEP Solid Waste Advisory Committee Ad Hoc Convenience
Center Subcommittee meeting. 14th Floor Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. ( formal notice
)-- Discussion of Feasibility of Establishing Recycling Convenience Centers in Rural Areas
-- Click Here for available handouts.
August 6-- Agenda Posted. DEP Air Quality Technical Advisory Committee meeting. Room
105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:15.
-- Revised Policy On Developing Technical Guidance
-- Update on PA’s 2015 Ambient Air Monitoring Network Plan
-- Acid Rain - A PA Perspective
-- Concepts For Proposed Air Quality Fee Increases
-- Proposed Attainment Demonstration For North Reading Lead Nonattainment
-- Overview Of Supreme Court Ruling On EPA’s Mercury, Air Toxics Standards-- Regulatory Update/State Implementation Plan Revisions
-- Click Here for available handouts.
August 6-- Susquehanna River Basin Commission public hearing on proposed changes to the
Comprehensive Plan for the Water Resources of the Susquehanna River Basin and on individual
water withdrawal projects. East Hanover Township Municipal Building, 8848 Jonestown Rd.,
Grantville. 7:00 to 9:00. ( formal notice + agenda ) ( formal notice )
August 6-7-- 2015 PA Community Forestry Conference . Penn State Erie.
August 7-8— NEW . Mid-Atlantic Volunteer Monitoring Conference . Shenandoah University,
Winchester, VA.
August 8-- Digital Photo Art Exhibit By Jerry Hassinger . Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art,
Millersburg, Dauphin County. 2:00 to 5:00 Reception.
August 12-- DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 9:30.
August 12-- DEP State Board For Certification Of Water And Wastewater Systems Operators
meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.
August 12-- DCNR Wild Resource Conservation Program hearing to comment on applications
submitted for FY 2015-16 grant funding. 6th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building,
Harrisburg. 10:00. ( formal notice )
August 18-- CANCELED . Environmental Quality Board meeting. The next scheduled meeting
is September 15. 9:00. ( formal cancellation notice )
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August 18-- CANCELED . DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. The next scheduled
meeting is September 15. 10:00.
August 25-- DEP Oil and Gas Technical Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel
Carson Building. 10:00. ( formal notice
)
August 26-- DEP Cleanup Standards Scientific Advisory Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel
Carson Building. 9:00.
August 26-- DEP Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force meeting. Susquehanna Conference Rooms,
DEP Southcentral Regional Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 1:00.
August 27-- DEP Conventional Oil and Gas Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel
Carson Building. 10:00.
August 29— NEW. Brodhead Creek Watershed Assn. hosts 2 hikes in Monroe County. ClickHere for all the details.
September 1-- DEP Storage Tank Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:00.
September 8-- DEP Board of Coal Mine Safety meeting. DEP Cambria Office, 286 Industrial
Park Rd., Ebensburg. 10:00.
September 15-- Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.
9:00.
September 15-- DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.
10:00.
September 17-- DEP Water Systems Technical Assistance Center Board meeting. Room 105
Rachel Carson Building. 9:00.
September 16-20-- National Trout Unlimited Meeting. Center City Hilton Hotel and Convention
Center, Scranton. Click Here for more information.
September 20-22-- 2015 Greenways and Trails Summit. Holiday Inn and AlleghenyCommunity Center, Warren.
September 22-- DEP Sewage Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:30.
September 23-- DEP Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force meeting. Susquehanna Conference
Rooms, DEP Southcentral Regional Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 1:00.
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September 24-- DEP Recycling Fund Advisory Committee & Solid Waste Advisory Committee
meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.
September 24-- DEP Radiation Protection Advisory Committee meeting. 14th Floor
Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00.
October 2-- DEP Low-Level Waste Advisory Committee. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.
10:00.
October 8-- DEP Air Quality Technical Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel
Carson Building. 9:15.
October 13— NEW . PA Environmental Council 2nd Annual Environmental Policy Conference .
Harrisburg.
October 14-- DEP Technical Advisory Committee on Diesel-Powered Mining Equipment meeting. DEP New Stanton Office, 131 Broadview Rd., New Stanton. 10:00.
October 17-- Sen. Alloway, Alliance For Chesapeake Bay Tree Planting . Cumberland, Franklin
Counties. Click Here for more information or to volunteer.
October 20-- Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00.
October 20-- DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.
10:00.
October 22-- DEP Mining and Reclamation Advisory Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:00.
October 27-- DEP Oil and Gas Technical Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel
Carson Building. 10:00. ( formal notice )
October 28-- DEP Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force meeting. Susquehanna Conference
Rooms, DEP Southcentral Regional Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 1:00.
October 28-30-- 2015 Partnership for Safe Water 2015 Water System Optimization Conference
hosted by the PA Section American Water Works Association . Hershey.
October 28-- DEP Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee meeting. 12th Floor
Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.
October 29-- DEP Conventional Oil and Gas Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel
Carson Building. 10:00.
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October 29-- DEP State Board For Certification Of Water And Wastewater Systems Operators
meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.
November 18-- DEP Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force meeting. Susquehanna Conference
Rooms, DEP Southcentral Regional Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 1:00.
January 13-- DEP Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force meeting. Susquehanna Conference
Rooms, DEP Southcentral Regional Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 1:00.
February 26-27— NEW. 2016 Keystone Coldwater Conference. State College.
Visit DEP’s Public Participation Center for information on how you can Be Informed! and Get
Involved! in DEP regulation and guidance development process.
DEP Regulations In Process
Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage
Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage
Recently Finalized Regulations - DEP webpage
DEP Regulatory Update - DEP webpage
DEP Technical Guidance In Process
Draft Technical Guidance Documents - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines - DEP webpage
Submit Comments on Proposals Through DEP’s new Environmental Policy Comment System
Recently Closed Comment Periods For Technical Guidance - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance Recently Finalized - DEP webpage
Copies of Final Technical Guidance - DEP webpage
Other DEP Proposals For Public Review
Other Proposals Open For Public Comment - DEP webpage
Submit Comments on Proposals Through DEP’s new Environmental Policy Comment System
Recently Closed Comment Periods For Other Proposals - DEP webpage
Other Proposals Recently Finalized - DEP webpage
Click Here for links to DEP’s Advisory Committee webpages.
DEP Calendar of Events
DCNR 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.
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Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule
You can watch the Senate Floor Session and House Floor Session live online.
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Grants & Awards
This section gives you a heads up on upcoming deadlines for awards and grants and other
recognition programs. NEW means new from last week.
July 30-- TreeVitalize Inventory, Planting Grants
July 31-- Keep PA Beautiful Fresh Paint Days PA Grants
July 31-- CFA Business In Our Sites, Brownfields
July 31-- NRCS Wetland Reserve Enhancement Partnership
July 31-- NRCS Regional Conservation Partnership Program Grants August 7-- Chesapeake Bay Trust K-12 Environmental Ed Grants
August 14-- NEW . PA Sea Grant Program Research Grant Proposals
August 14-- PA Housing Finance Agency Drilling Fee Funded Housing Grants
August 24-- 10,000 Friends Of PA Commonwealth Awards
September 12-- PPFF State Parks and Forests Through The Season Photo Contest
September 12-- Yellow Breeches Watershed Landscape Makeover Challenge
September 18-- PHS TreeVitalize Watershed Grants Southeast PA
September 18-- FirstEnergy STEM Education Grants
September 30-- DEP Recycling Performance Grants
September 30-- Project Learning Tree GreenWorks! Grants
September 30-- PRC Anti-Litter Video Contest Pittsburgh October 22-- Office State Fire Commission Fire Company Grants (Limited Info)
October 31-- PA Resources Council Lens On Litter Photo Contest
December 31-- DEP Alternative Fuels Incentive Vehicle Rebates
January 1-- NEW . DEP Small Business Advantage Grants (first-come, first-served)
-- Visit the DEP Grants and Loan Programs webpage for more ideas on how to get financial
assistance for environmental projects.
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Environmental NewsClips - All Topics
Here are NewsClips from around the state on all environmental topics, including General
Environment, Budget, Marcellus Shale, Watershed Protection and much more--
Quecreek Mine Rescue Site Monument To Hope
Quecreek Mine Museum Gives Visitors Something To See
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Superintendent At Flight 93 Site Set For Visitor Center Dedication
Tickets Available Soon For Flight 93 Visitors Center Opening
Schweiger: PA Can Be A Victim Or Catalyst For Change
Alternative Energy
Moon School Districts Considers Solar Panels
Problems, Myths Of Solar-Electric Discussed In York Awards & Recognition
The Circuit Trails Win USA TODAY’s Best Urban Trail Recognition
Budget
Wolf Willing To Compromise On Severance Tax
Op-Ed: Put Kids First, Not Gas Companies
Op-Ed: PA Has Potential To Be An Energy Powerhouse
Op-Ed: Natural Gas Economic Benefits For Southcentral PA
Wolf: Social Service Providers May Have To Borrow Money
Wolf: We’re Going To Get Through This
Wolf, Lawmakers Sound Upbeat After 4-Hour Budget Talks
House Returns To Session With Deep Divides Over Budget Budget Negotiators Find Better Understanding, No Final Product
GOP Majority Of Majority Rule Could Test Any Budget Deal
Budget Politicking Hits The Road
House Returns To Budget Impasse
McGinty Steps Down To Make U.S. Senate Run
Isenhour Tapped To Replace McGinty As Chief Of Staff
Column: With Wolf Staff Changes, Real Shot At Budget Deal
Republicans See Isenhour’s Appointment As Positive
Climate
Quigley Discusses PA’s New Approach To Federal Carbon Rules
Energy Conference Draws Sustainability-Minded
Editorial: Clean Power Goals Realistic
Outrage Over Federal Clean Power Rules Fades As States Find Fixes
Problems, Myths Of Solar-Electric Discussed In York
Coal Mining - Underground
DCNR Halts Efforts To Restore Lake At Ryerson Station State Park
DCNR Will Not Rebuild Lake Dam At Ryerson Station State Park
Compliance Actions
DEP Issues 374 NOVs For Failure To Do Gas Well Integrity Reports
DEP Fines Fredericktown Water Authority
Drinking WaterDEP Fines Fredericktown Water Authority
Monroe Residents Concerned About Nestle Water Bottling Project
Villanova Group Tackles Madagascar’s Water Issues
Education
Villanova Group Tackles Madagascar’s Water Issues
Energy
Energy Conference Draws Sustainability-Minded
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Editorial: Clean Power Goals Realistic
Outrage Over Federal Clean Power Rules Fades As States Find Fixes
Benefits Program Still Seeking Sick Nuclear Workers
Shell Ethane Plant Would Generate Its Own Electricity
Tension Between West Penn, Lineman Shows Perils Of Job
Connellsville OKs Permit For Natural Gas, Electric Solicitation Mine Reclamation
House To Vote On Mine Water Bill
Oil & Gas
Wolf Willing To Compromise On Severance Tax
Op-Ed: Put Kids First, Not Gas Companies
Op-Ed: PA Has Potential To Be An Energy Powerhouse
Op-Ed: Natural Gas Economic Benefits For Southcentral PA
PA Gas Pipeline Group Gets To Work
Task Force Seeks To Manage Massive Buildout Of Pipelines
DEP Pipeline Group Starts Work
PEC Named To DEP Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force Wilkes Prof Appointed To Governor’s Pipeline Task Force
PA’s New Pipeline Task Force Meets This Week
Pitts Asks About Pipeline Safety Reforms At Hearing
MarkWest Objects To Compressor Station Conditions
Camp Hill Firm Seeking 2nd Natural Gas Terminal Permit
Pipeline Opponent Guilty Of Disorderly Conduct
Editorial: Speaking Up Is Not A Crime
PennEast Pipeline Blocked From Mapping Land In NJ
Op-Ed: Marcellus Shale 2.0, Gas Infrastructure
Shale Drillers On DCNR Land Pulled Back Again In 2014
Fewer Gas Wells Drilled In State Forests
House To Vote On Mine Water Bill
Butler County Families File Suit Against XTO Energy
Hospital Visits Increase In Bradford, Susquehanna
Protect PT Takes On Fracking In Penn Twp
DEP: Orphan Gas, Oil Wells A Cause For Concern
DEP Issues 374 NOVs For Failure To Do Gas Well Integrity Reports
Study Shows More Hospital Stays In 3 Fracking Counties
Shell Ethane Plant Would Generate Its Own Electricity
Deep Well Services Discusses Hiring In Downturn
Investor Pushing Changes At Consol Energy Consol Warns Of Loss From Low Gas, Coal Prices
As Drillers Pull Back, Training Program Shift Focus
Drillers Become More Efficient In Low Price Environment
EQT Profit Falls On Low Shale Gas Prices
Feds Warn Railroads To Comply With Oil Train Notifications
CSX Provides Update On WV Oil Train Derailment
Radiation Protection
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New Test Shows Little Radiation In Ten Mile Creek
Radiation Tests In Ten Mile Creek Yield Conflicting Results
Mystery Continues Over Radioactivity In Western PA Stream
Recreation
The Circuit Trails Win USA TODAY’s Best Urban Trail Recognition
DCNR Halts Efforts To Restore Lake At Ryerson Station State Park DCNR Will Not Rebuild Lake Dam At Ryerson Station State Park
Shale Drillers On DCNR Land Pulled Back Again In 2014
Fewer Gas Wells Drilled In State Forests
State Park Beaches Closed After 29 Swimmers Get Sick
Major Funding Announced For Delaware Valley Trails
Letter: Rename Moon Lake To Honor Pat Solano
Delaware Water Gap: Adams Creek Trail Closed
Editorial: Discover Presque Isle In Many Ways
Recycling/Waste
NJ: Electronics Waste Piles Up, Environmental Risk Grows
Wolf Administration Seeks Legal Help On HBG Debt Claims Storage Tank
Scranton Heating Plant Leaky Oil Tank Ownership Disputed
Watershed Protection
Chesapeake Bay Report Card: Progress, But Challenges Ahead
Op-Ed: Waiting Long Enough For Cleaner Chesapeake Bay, Gov. Thornburgh
Teachers Get Feet Wet At Envirothon Workshop
Op-Ed: Tell Toomey, PA Republicans To Support Clean Water Act
New Test Shows Little Radiation In Ten Mile Creek
Radiation Tests In Ten Mile Creek Yield Conflicting Results
Mystery Continues Over Radioactivity In Western PA Stream
Riverlife Pittsburgh Hires New CEO
Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here to subscribe to the Chesapeake Bay Journal
Wildlife
Osprey May Follow Eagles Being Declared Recovered
NE PA Audubon Hosts 30th Annual Festival
Peregrine Falcon Chick Hatched In Pittsburgh Dies
Ned Smith Center For Nature & Arts July 25 Festival
Other
Roaring Brook Twp Ousts Trucking Firm In Conservation Zone
Superintendent At Flight 93 Site Set For Visitor Center Dedication Tickets Available Soon For Flight 93 Visitors Center Opening
DEP’s NewsClips webpage - Click Here
The latest environmental NewsClips and news is available at the PA Environment Digest Daily
Blog , Twitter Feed and add us to your Google+ Circle .
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Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits
The Governor’s Office published the semi-annual Regulatory Agenda in the July 25 PA Bulletin
( beginning on page 4063 ) outlining regulatory proposals each of the state agencies will be
working on over the next six months to a year. This was the first Regulatory Agenda published
by the Wolf Administration.
Pennsylvania Bulletin - July 25, 2015
DEP Regulations In Process
Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage
Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage
Recently Finalized Regulations - DEP webpage
DEP Regulatory Update - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance & Permits
The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the July 25 PA Bulletin of new
draft technical guidance available for public comment: Land Recycling Program Technical
guidance Manual For Vapor Intrusion (comments due September 23) and Radiation Protection
Compliance and Enforcement Guidance (comments due August 24). Copies of the guidance are
available on DEP’s Environmental Policy Comment System webpage.
DEP Technical Guidance In Process
Draft Technical Guidance Documents - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines - DEP webpage
Submit Comments on Proposals Through DEP’s new Environmental Policy Comment System Recently Closed Comment Periods For Technical Guidance - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance Recently Finalized - DEP webpage
Copies of Final Technical Guidance - DEP webpage
Other DEP Proposals For Public Review
Other Proposals Open For Public Comment - DEP webpage
Submit Comments on Proposals Through DEP’s new Environmental Policy Comment System
Recently Closed Comment Periods For Other Proposals - DEP webpage
Other Proposals Recently Finalized - 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.
Click Here for links to DEP’s Advisory Committee webpages.
DEP Calendar of Events
Add Green Works In PA To Your Google+ Circle
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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: [email protected].
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.
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