Are Leaking Gas Wells Letting Methane Into Dimock’s Water?
Cabot Beats EPA To Punch On Well’s Water
Paddlers Clean Up Allegheny Riverbanks
Editorial: Preparing For The Worst Is The Best Plan
Energy Industry Opens Jobs, Interest Is Low
Casks Planned To Store Nuclear Fuel At Shippingport
Indiana Commissioners Approve Trails, Recreation Facilities
Pittsburgh National Aviary 60th Anniversary
Editorial: Protect Public Park Land
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Sunday, September 30, 2012
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Saturday NewsClips
Where To Go In PA For Fall Foliage
Supports Slips For More Rules On Fracking
Columbia Gas Seeks 23.4% Rate Hike To Fund Pipeline Work
Lawsuit Fights Refinery Emissions Deal
PECO Electricity Price To Rise 21.5% Monday
Philly Navy Yard Looks To Energy Sector To Revive
Honoring Sonny Popowsky For His Service As Consumer Advocate
Op-Ed: Changes In Coal Region Not Always For Better
Column: Weis Markets Lends A Hand For Agriculture
House To Vote On Ag Composting Bill Monday
Did Lawmakers Get Hoodwinked On Public Land Sales Bill
Film To Shed Light On 9/11 In Somerset County
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Supports Slips For More Rules On Fracking
Columbia Gas Seeks 23.4% Rate Hike To Fund Pipeline Work
Lawsuit Fights Refinery Emissions Deal
PECO Electricity Price To Rise 21.5% Monday
Philly Navy Yard Looks To Energy Sector To Revive
Honoring Sonny Popowsky For His Service As Consumer Advocate
Op-Ed: Changes In Coal Region Not Always For Better
Column: Weis Markets Lends A Hand For Agriculture
House To Vote On Ag Composting Bill Monday
Did Lawmakers Get Hoodwinked On Public Land Sales Bill
Film To Shed Light On 9/11 In Somerset County
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Friday, September 28, 2012
Oct. 1 PA Environment Digest Now Available
Sen. Scarnati Working On Marcellus Shale Health Advisory Panel Bill
Sen. Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson) circulated a memo to members of the Senate this week announcing his intent to develop legislation to create a Marcellus Shale Health Advisory Panel.
The panel, he said, would “be tasked with thoroughly investigating and studying advancements in science, technology and public health data in order to provide Pennsylvania elected officials, regulators and the general public with information, analysis and recommendations regarding the safe, efficient and environmentally responsible extraction and use of unconventional natural gas reserves in the Commonwealth.”
Sen. Scarnati noted, “There has been much discussion regarding the potential effects of Marcellus Shale drilling on public health and safety. The creation of an advisory panel composed of experts from a wide range of fields including doctors, scientists, academics and industry leaders will provide Pennsylvania with a critical asset in addressing any current or future impacts arising from the development of Marcellus Shale.”
The creation of a permanent health advisory panel was a suggestion of the Governor’s Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission he explained.
In fact, the language used by Sen. Scarnati to describe his proposal advisory panel was very close to the recommendation in the Commission report--
Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne), Minority Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, proposed supporting the creation of a health registry as part of his drilling fee proposal in Senate Bill 1519.
He said he would propose a panel consisting of nine members including the Secretary of Health and individuals appointed by the Governor, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, Speaker of the House and House and Senate Minority Leaders.
Sen. Scarnati led the effort to establish a responsible drilling fee and additional environmental protection standards during both the Rendell and Corbett Administrations.
A copy of Sen. Scarnati’s memo is available online.
Sen. Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson) circulated a memo to members of the Senate this week announcing his intent to develop legislation to create a Marcellus Shale Health Advisory Panel.
The panel, he said, would “be tasked with thoroughly investigating and studying advancements in science, technology and public health data in order to provide Pennsylvania elected officials, regulators and the general public with information, analysis and recommendations regarding the safe, efficient and environmentally responsible extraction and use of unconventional natural gas reserves in the Commonwealth.”
Sen. Scarnati noted, “There has been much discussion regarding the potential effects of Marcellus Shale drilling on public health and safety. The creation of an advisory panel composed of experts from a wide range of fields including doctors, scientists, academics and industry leaders will provide Pennsylvania with a critical asset in addressing any current or future impacts arising from the development of Marcellus Shale.”
The creation of a permanent health advisory panel was a suggestion of the Governor’s Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission he explained.
In fact, the language used by Sen. Scarnati to describe his proposal advisory panel was very close to the recommendation in the Commission report--
“In recognition of the tremendous breadth and scope of issues affected by Marcellus Shale natural gas, as well as the significant pace of technology and best management practice advancements occurring within the industry, the Commission strongly encourages Governor Corbett to consider creating a permanent advisory panel or committee to monitor the impacts of this industry, thoroughly investigate advancements in science, public health data and technology, and provide the Commonwealth’s elected officials, policymakers, regulators and members of the public with real-time information, analysis and recommendations regarding the safe, efficient and environmentally responsible extraction and use of unconventional natural gas reserves in Pennsylvania.”
The Commission also recommended the Commonwealth establish a health registry to track the any impacts drilling was having around well sites-- “The Department of Health should create, or oversee the creation of, a population-based health registry with the purpose of characterizing and following over time individuals who live in close proximity (i.e. one mile radius) to gas drilling and production sites.”Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne), Minority Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, proposed supporting the creation of a health registry as part of his drilling fee proposal in Senate Bill 1519.
He said he would propose a panel consisting of nine members including the Secretary of Health and individuals appointed by the Governor, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, Speaker of the House and House and Senate Minority Leaders.
Sen. Scarnati led the effort to establish a responsible drilling fee and additional environmental protection standards during both the Rendell and Corbett Administrations.
A copy of Sen. Scarnati’s memo is available online.
Applications Now Being Accepted For DEP Environmental Education Grants
Applications for the 2013 Environmental Education Grants Program are now available from the Department of Environmental Protection. The deadline for applications is December 13. (formal notice)
-- Chesapeake Bay and Watershed Education—Organizations are encouraged to develop environmental education programs that promote the reduction of nonpoint source pollution, such as nutrient and sediment loads, along with other water-related education programs.
-- Air Quality—Organizations are encouraged to develop air quality education and outreach programs.
-- Energy Education—Organizations are encouraged to develop educational programs on energy efficiency and conservation, as well as natural gas, coal, wind, solar and other energy sources and technologies.
-- Brownfields—Organizations are encouraged to develop education and outreach programs for students, youth, educators, community members, community groups, developers, property owners and others that are interested in brownfield redevelopment and sustainable communities, along with developing green spaces.
-- Environmental Literacy Planning and Programming—Organizations are encouraged to engage educators and stakeholders in content standards and field-based environmental education. Areas of specific focus should include: graduation requirements, professional development on environmental education content knowledge and field-based pedagogy, assessment and evaluation, partnering to build capacity, identifying existing resources and sustainability of programs.
-- Formal and Non-formal EE Certification—Organizations are encouraged to develop and implement institutionalized and community-based certification programs designed for teachers, naturalists and educators working in schools and environmental education facilities at parks, county conservation districts, nature/EE centers, conservancies and more. It gives educators in these arenas access to a formal credential that standardizes and upgrades professional development, allowing educators to address academic standards in a meaningful and relevant way.
-- STEM Education—Organizations are encouraged to develop environmental education programs integrating STEM program instruction (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) into programs.
-- Curriculum Integration Projects—Organizations are encouraged to articulate the Academic Standards for Environment and Ecology into the formal K-12 curriculum, including Energy Education, for the entire school district, private school or charter school, using the model developed by the Department of Education's Office of Environment and Ecology.
-- Curriculum Revision Projects—Organizations are encouraged to revise current (or write new) lesson plans or units to meet the changes identified in the alignment to the Environment and Ecology Standards, Energy Education and provide a means for classroom assessment.
-- Outdoor Learning Resource Projects—Organizations are encouraged to develop resources such as trails, agricultural demonstration areas, energy demonstration areas, ponds, wetland areas, sheltered learning stations, and the like, as well as similar nearby community resources as a framework within which students can learn about natural systems and the interrelationship among natural and man-made communities.
The grants provide funding to public and incorporated private schools, colleges and universities, county conservation districts, incorporated nonprofit organizations, along with incorporated conservation and education organizations and institutions, businesses, municipalities and municipal authorities to create or develop projects that support environmental education.
Grants will provide environmental education on timely and critically important topics, including the following:
-- Chesapeake Bay and Watershed Education—Organizations are encouraged to develop environmental education programs that promote the reduction of nonpoint source pollution, such as nutrient and sediment loads, along with other water-related education programs.
-- Air Quality—Organizations are encouraged to develop air quality education and outreach programs.
-- Energy Education—Organizations are encouraged to develop educational programs on energy efficiency and conservation, as well as natural gas, coal, wind, solar and other energy sources and technologies.
-- Brownfields—Organizations are encouraged to develop education and outreach programs for students, youth, educators, community members, community groups, developers, property owners and others that are interested in brownfield redevelopment and sustainable communities, along with developing green spaces.
-- Environmental Literacy Planning and Programming—Organizations are encouraged to engage educators and stakeholders in content standards and field-based environmental education. Areas of specific focus should include: graduation requirements, professional development on environmental education content knowledge and field-based pedagogy, assessment and evaluation, partnering to build capacity, identifying existing resources and sustainability of programs.
Additionally, projects may focus on high performing green schools and buildings; providing high quality programming for children, youth or adults, or both (programs to include STEM, outdoor education, service learning, ensuring access for participants with disabilities); professional development for formal and nonformal educators; environmental service learning programs for youth and adults; and environmental careers/green jobs.
-- Formal and Non-formal EE Certification—Organizations are encouraged to develop and implement institutionalized and community-based certification programs designed for teachers, naturalists and educators working in schools and environmental education facilities at parks, county conservation districts, nature/EE centers, conservancies and more. It gives educators in these arenas access to a formal credential that standardizes and upgrades professional development, allowing educators to address academic standards in a meaningful and relevant way.
-- STEM Education—Organizations are encouraged to develop environmental education programs integrating STEM program instruction (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) into programs.
-- Curriculum Integration Projects—Organizations are encouraged to articulate the Academic Standards for Environment and Ecology into the formal K-12 curriculum, including Energy Education, for the entire school district, private school or charter school, using the model developed by the Department of Education's Office of Environment and Ecology.
-- Curriculum Revision Projects—Organizations are encouraged to revise current (or write new) lesson plans or units to meet the changes identified in the alignment to the Environment and Ecology Standards, Energy Education and provide a means for classroom assessment.
-- Outdoor Learning Resource Projects—Organizations are encouraged to develop resources such as trails, agricultural demonstration areas, energy demonstration areas, ponds, wetland areas, sheltered learning stations, and the like, as well as similar nearby community resources as a framework within which students can learn about natural systems and the interrelationship among natural and man-made communities.
The Program was established by the Environmental Education Act which mandates setting aside 5 percent of the pollution fines and penalties collected annually by the Department for environmental education in this Commonwealth.
Environmental Education Grant awards are limited to $7,500.
Applications for the 2013 program will be available on DEP’s Environmental Education webpage or by contacting the Department of Environmental Protection, Environmental Education Grants Program, P. O. Box 2063, Harrisburg, PA 17105-2063 or call 717-772-1828.
Friday NewsClips
DEP Secretary: Critics Of DEP Are Outsiders Without Facts
Editorial: Independently Assess Drilling Impact On Health
Editorial: Drillng Concerns Deserve Respect
Who’s Filling Challenges Against Local Drilling Ordinances?
PUC To Review Local Marcellus Drilling Laws
Lycoming Truck Spills 3,600 Gallons Of Fracking Fluid
Op-Ed: Marcellus Find Transforms Pennsylvania
USGS Tests Confirm Contamination From Fracking In Wyoming
School Drilling Lease Bill Heads To Corbett
Gas Industry, Anti-Drillers In Flap Over Logos
Recap Of Marcellus Shale Conference In Philadelphia
UGI Moves On West Wyoming Compressor Station
Western PA Gas Bills Expected To Keep Falling
Wilkes-Barre Approves $6 Million Energy Savings Project
Allegheny College’s Big-School Sustainability Impact
Cleanup From Storms, Flooding Continues In SW
Plants Reclaim Speedwell Forge Lake At Least For Now
Girl Scouts To Plant 100 Trees In Pittsburgh
U.S. Gives $1.2 Million For Flight 93 Memorial Access Road
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Editorial: Independently Assess Drilling Impact On Health
Editorial: Drillng Concerns Deserve Respect
Who’s Filling Challenges Against Local Drilling Ordinances?
PUC To Review Local Marcellus Drilling Laws
Lycoming Truck Spills 3,600 Gallons Of Fracking Fluid
Op-Ed: Marcellus Find Transforms Pennsylvania
USGS Tests Confirm Contamination From Fracking In Wyoming
School Drilling Lease Bill Heads To Corbett
Gas Industry, Anti-Drillers In Flap Over Logos
Recap Of Marcellus Shale Conference In Philadelphia
UGI Moves On West Wyoming Compressor Station
Western PA Gas Bills Expected To Keep Falling
Wilkes-Barre Approves $6 Million Energy Savings Project
Allegheny College’s Big-School Sustainability Impact
Cleanup From Storms, Flooding Continues In SW
Plants Reclaim Speedwell Forge Lake At Least For Now
Girl Scouts To Plant 100 Trees In Pittsburgh
U.S. Gives $1.2 Million For Flight 93 Memorial Access Road
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Thursday, September 27, 2012
DCNR Offers Fall Foliage Updates
NewsClips:
Erie’s Fall Colors Still Up In The Air
Foliage Experts Say We’ll Get Nice Show
Thursday NewsClips
Top Republican Floats Proposal For Marcellus Health Panel
Report Criticizes PA Gas Drilling Enforcement
Tanker Spills Drilling Wastewater In Lycoming Creek
Court Won’t Hear From Gas Industry In Drilling Law Appeal
UGI Withdraws Application For Compressor Station
Several Express Opposition To Gas Pipeline
Range Announces Marcellus Pipeline, Export Deals
Lt. Gov. Cawley Tours Marcellus-Related Water Treatment Plant
Gas Products Pipeline Advance Marcus Hook Refinery Rebirth
Editorial: To EPA, Call Off The Dogs On Homer City
Limerick Reactor Operator Flunked Alcohol Test
Nuclear Industry Slowed By Its Own Waste
DEP Concerned About Radioactive Material From Allentown Site
50 Years Of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Report Criticizes PA Gas Drilling Enforcement
Tanker Spills Drilling Wastewater In Lycoming Creek
Court Won’t Hear From Gas Industry In Drilling Law Appeal
UGI Withdraws Application For Compressor Station
Several Express Opposition To Gas Pipeline
Range Announces Marcellus Pipeline, Export Deals
Lt. Gov. Cawley Tours Marcellus-Related Water Treatment Plant
Gas Products Pipeline Advance Marcus Hook Refinery Rebirth
Editorial: To EPA, Call Off The Dogs On Homer City
Limerick Reactor Operator Flunked Alcohol Test
Nuclear Industry Slowed By Its Own Waste
DEP Concerned About Radioactive Material From Allentown Site
50 Years Of Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Sen. Scarnati Working On Marcellus Shale Health Advisory Panel Bill
Sen. Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson) circulated a memo to members of the Senate this week announcing his intent to develop legislation to create a Marcellus Shale Health Advisory Panel.
The panel, he said, would “be tasked with thoroughly investigating and studying advancements in science, technology and public health data in order to provide Pennsylvania elected officials, regulators and the general public with information, analysis and recommendations regarding the safe, efficient and environmentally responsible extraction and use of unconventional natural gas reserves in the Commonwealth.”
Sen. Scarnati noted, “There has been much discussion regarding the potential effects of Marcellus Shale drilling on public health and safety. The creation of an advisory panel composed of experts from a wide range of fields including doctors, scientists, academics and industry leaders will provide Pennsylvania with a critical asset in addressing any current or future impacts arising from the development of Marcellus Shale.”
The creation of a permanent health advisory panel was a suggestion of the Governor’s Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission he explained.
In fact, the language used by Sen. Scarnati to describe his proposal advisory panel was very close to the recommendation in the Commission report--
Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne), Minority Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, proposed supporting the creation of a health registry as part of his drilling fee proposal in Senate Bill 1519.
He said he would propose a panel consisting of nine members including the Secretary of Health and individuals appointed by the Governor, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, Speaker of the House and House and Senate Minority Leaders.
Sen. Scarnati led the effort to establish a responsible drilling fee and additional environmental protection standards during both the Rendell and Corbett Administrations.
A copy of Sen. Scarnati’s memo is available online.
The panel, he said, would “be tasked with thoroughly investigating and studying advancements in science, technology and public health data in order to provide Pennsylvania elected officials, regulators and the general public with information, analysis and recommendations regarding the safe, efficient and environmentally responsible extraction and use of unconventional natural gas reserves in the Commonwealth.”
Sen. Scarnati noted, “There has been much discussion regarding the potential effects of Marcellus Shale drilling on public health and safety. The creation of an advisory panel composed of experts from a wide range of fields including doctors, scientists, academics and industry leaders will provide Pennsylvania with a critical asset in addressing any current or future impacts arising from the development of Marcellus Shale.”
The creation of a permanent health advisory panel was a suggestion of the Governor’s Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission he explained.
In fact, the language used by Sen. Scarnati to describe his proposal advisory panel was very close to the recommendation in the Commission report--
“In recognition of the tremendous breadth and scope of issues affected by Marcellus Shale natural gas, as well as the significant pace of technology and best management practice advancements occurring within the industry, the Commission strongly encourages Governor Corbett to consider creating a permanent advisory panel or committee to monitor the impacts of this industry, thoroughly investigate advancements in science, public health data and technology, and provide the Commonwealth’s elected officials, policymakers, regulators and members of the public with real-time information, analysis and recommendations regarding the safe, efficient and environmentally responsible extraction and use of unconventional natural gas reserves in Pennsylvania.”
The Commission also recommended the Commonwealth establish a health registry to track the any impacts drilling was having around well sites-- “The Department of Health should create, or oversee the creation of, a population-based health registry with the purpose of characterizing and following over time individuals who live in close proximity (i.e. one mile radius) to gas drilling and production sites.”Sen. John Yudichak (D-Luzerne), Minority Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, proposed supporting the creation of a health registry as part of his drilling fee proposal in Senate Bill 1519.
He said he would propose a panel consisting of nine members including the Secretary of Health and individuals appointed by the Governor, President Pro Tempore of the Senate, Speaker of the House and House and Senate Minority Leaders.
Sen. Scarnati led the effort to establish a responsible drilling fee and additional environmental protection standards during both the Rendell and Corbett Administrations.
A copy of Sen. Scarnati’s memo is available online.
Wednesday NewsClips
Sen. Scarnati Proposing Shale Health Advisory Panel
Bill Will Allow Mining, Drilling On Other State Land
SW PA To Play Role In Export Of Gas To Europe
Chemical Day Heralds Industry Return In Western PA
Judge Rejects NY Drilling Lawsuit Against Feds
Environmental Group Says States Fail To Oversee Fracking
Gamesa, Other Wind Jobs To Be Lost This Year
Pequea Creek Watershed Will Host Mini Golf Tourney
Rep. Mundy Convenes Meeting On Floodplain Management
DEP Wants Fuel Oil Cleanup, Landowner Opposed
Bill Would Place Parks At Whim Of Pols
Voters Remain Sour On Corbett
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Bill Will Allow Mining, Drilling On Other State Land
SW PA To Play Role In Export Of Gas To Europe
Chemical Day Heralds Industry Return In Western PA
Judge Rejects NY Drilling Lawsuit Against Feds
Environmental Group Says States Fail To Oversee Fracking
Gamesa, Other Wind Jobs To Be Lost This Year
Pequea Creek Watershed Will Host Mini Golf Tourney
Rep. Mundy Convenes Meeting On Floodplain Management
DEP Wants Fuel Oil Cleanup, Landowner Opposed
Bill Would Place Parks At Whim Of Pols
Voters Remain Sour On Corbett
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Monday, September 24, 2012
Monday NewsClips
Editorial: Casey Urges Federal Action On Asian Carp
Carnegie Mellon Effort Puts Shale Data Online
Decades Of Federal Dollars Helped Fuel Gas Boom
Toledo Stormwater Project Offers Preview For Pittsburgh
Editorial: On Wind Jobs, Pols Blow It
Coal Mining Proposal Draws Support In Indiana County
Shickshinny Fails To Pass Floodplain Ordinance
Editorial: Game Commission Has Tools To Fight Poachers
Woodlands Program Lets Forest Earn Funds Sustainably
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Carnegie Mellon Effort Puts Shale Data Online
Decades Of Federal Dollars Helped Fuel Gas Boom
Toledo Stormwater Project Offers Preview For Pittsburgh
Editorial: On Wind Jobs, Pols Blow It
Coal Mining Proposal Draws Support In Indiana County
Shickshinny Fails To Pass Floodplain Ordinance
Editorial: Game Commission Has Tools To Fight Poachers
Woodlands Program Lets Forest Earn Funds Sustainably
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Sunday NewsClips
Sediment Spilling Over Dam Into Chesapeake Bay
Federal Agency Seeks Comment On Pipeline Project
With Success, Natural Gas Industry Eyes Exports
Volunteers Remove 6.7 Million Pounds Of Trash
Electronic Devices Taken Out Of Trash Stream
Lackawanaa County Taking Tires For Recycling
TMI Reactor Returned To Service
Editorial: Allegheny County Punts On Air Code
Erie’s Fall Colors Still Up In The Air
Wild Man Helms Conservancy Appeal
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Federal Agency Seeks Comment On Pipeline Project
With Success, Natural Gas Industry Eyes Exports
Volunteers Remove 6.7 Million Pounds Of Trash
Electronic Devices Taken Out Of Trash Stream
Lackawanaa County Taking Tires For Recycling
TMI Reactor Returned To Service
Editorial: Allegheny County Punts On Air Code
Erie’s Fall Colors Still Up In The Air
Wild Man Helms Conservancy Appeal
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Saturday, September 22, 2012
Saturday NewsClips
Natural Gas-Fired Vehicles Elude Market For Now
Philly Refinery To Rely On Shale Oil, Gas
Philadelphia Mayor To Drillers: Earn Our Trust
NJ Governor Vetoes Fracking Wastewater Ban
Global Protests Planned Over Gas Drilling Process
Container Holding Radioactive Material In Landfill
DEP Chief To Speak At Wind Collaborative In Erie
Editorial: Energy Conservation Benefited Consumers
DEP To Fix Scranton Mine Subsidence
PA Tops Registrants For Cabela’s Wanna Go Fish For Millions
Fall Foilage Could Still Be Brilliant
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Philly Refinery To Rely On Shale Oil, Gas
Philadelphia Mayor To Drillers: Earn Our Trust
NJ Governor Vetoes Fracking Wastewater Ban
Global Protests Planned Over Gas Drilling Process
Container Holding Radioactive Material In Landfill
DEP Chief To Speak At Wind Collaborative In Erie
Editorial: Energy Conservation Benefited Consumers
DEP To Fix Scranton Mine Subsidence
PA Tops Registrants For Cabela’s Wanna Go Fish For Millions
Fall Foilage Could Still Be Brilliant
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Friday, September 21, 2012
Sept. 24 PA Environment Digest Now Available
Presentation To DEP Citizens Advisory Council Highlights Asian Carp Threat
DEP’s Citizens Advisory Council Tuesday heard presentations on several environmental issues facing Pennsylvania, including the threat posed by the invasive species Asian Carp, the lack of drinking water well standards, a study highlighting the impact of longwall mining on streams and an update on investigating lower Susquehanna River water quality problems.
Dr. Tim Schaeffer, Director of Policy and Planning at the Fish and Boat Commission, told the Council it was not a question of if, but probably when, Asian Carp are found in Pennsylvania waters if strong steps are not taken to prevent their entry into the Commonwealth. Click Here for a copy of his presentation.
DEP’s Citizens Advisory Council Tuesday heard presentations on several environmental issues facing Pennsylvania, including the threat posed by the invasive species Asian Carp, the lack of drinking water well standards, a study highlighting the impact of longwall mining on streams and an update on investigating lower Susquehanna River water quality problems.
Dr. Tim Schaeffer, Director of Policy and Planning at the Fish and Boat Commission, told the Council it was not a question of if, but probably when, Asian Carp are found in Pennsylvania waters if strong steps are not taken to prevent their entry into the Commonwealth. Click Here for a copy of his presentation.
He said Asian carp have had a devastating impact in the Mississippi River system and now pose this threat to the Great Lakes basin. As AIS species, these fish do not naturally occur in Pennsylvania waters and would only occur if transported and released.
These carp species are a threat due to there large size (some can grow to more than 100 pounds and five feet in length), reproductive success, habitat damage and large, year-round food consumption. In additon, silver carp, when startled, can jump up to 10 feet out of the water striking boaters, causing severe injury.
Schaeffer said in rivers where Asian Carp have taken hold up to 80 percent of the biomass of the aquatic environment is made up of these invasive species which would destroy much of the progress the state and watershed groups have made in restoring Pennsylvania streams.
In addition to the presentations, the Council took action to support DEP’s proposed draft final regulation setting sulfur limits for heating oil.
Walliser Re-elected As Chair
The Council also re-elected John Walliser, PA Environmental Council, as Chair and Burt Waite, Moody & Associates, Inc., as Vice Chair.
Annual Report
The 2011 Annual Report on Council activities was also made available recapping its accomplishments last year.
The next meeting of the Council is scheduled for October 16 at 11:00 in Room 105 of the Rachel Carson Building, Harrisburg.
Friday NewsClips
EPA Praises Rachel Carson’s Vision
Corbett: PA Is Getting It Right On Marcellus Shale
Corbett: Anti-Drilling Activists Are Unreasoning Opposition
Corbett Praises Gas Drillers, Slams Critics
Corbett Praises Marcellus Industry At Conference
PA Reaping Bounty In Marcellus Shale
Corbett Urges Gas Drillers To Think Far Ahead
Marcellus Gas: Fortune, Failures, Dimock
Anti-Drilling Organizers See Civil Disobedience In Future
Group Presents Study On Effects Of Drilling
DCED: PA At Center Of Energy Revolution
Other Companies Considering Cracker In PA
Allegheny County Requests Airport Gas Drilling Bids
Pittsburgh Airport Seeking Drilling Bids
PPL To Hire Thousands, Spend Billions To Reduce Emissions
No Radiation Release As TMI Shutdown
DEP: Scranton Hole Mine Subsidence
West Pittstown $2.56 Loan For Flood Repairs
Pittston Riverfest Will Explore Local History
Eat, Play, Ride On Armstrong Trail
Harrisburg Tears Down Community Garden Prompting Outrage
Light Show Raises Concerns For Conservationists
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Corbett: PA Is Getting It Right On Marcellus Shale
Corbett: Anti-Drilling Activists Are Unreasoning Opposition
Corbett Praises Gas Drillers, Slams Critics
Corbett Praises Marcellus Industry At Conference
PA Reaping Bounty In Marcellus Shale
Corbett Urges Gas Drillers To Think Far Ahead
Marcellus Gas: Fortune, Failures, Dimock
Anti-Drilling Organizers See Civil Disobedience In Future
Group Presents Study On Effects Of Drilling
DCED: PA At Center Of Energy Revolution
Other Companies Considering Cracker In PA
Allegheny County Requests Airport Gas Drilling Bids
Pittsburgh Airport Seeking Drilling Bids
PPL To Hire Thousands, Spend Billions To Reduce Emissions
No Radiation Release As TMI Shutdown
DEP: Scranton Hole Mine Subsidence
West Pittstown $2.56 Loan For Flood Repairs
Pittston Riverfest Will Explore Local History
Eat, Play, Ride On Armstrong Trail
Harrisburg Tears Down Community Garden Prompting Outrage
Light Show Raises Concerns For Conservationists
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Thursday NewsClips
State Police To Hold Prescription Drug Take Back Day
Allegheny County Delays Action On Air Toxics Rule
Allegheny County Delays Vote On Air Toxics Rules
Corbett Heckled At Philadelphia Energy Conference
Frackers, Fractivists Flock To Philly
Marcellus Shale Conference Kicks Off In Philly
Lehigh Gas Installs Natural Gas Pumps
Feds To Fund Gas Job Training In Lycoming
Environmental Group Sues NY Over Drilling Records
Reliving PA’s First Drilling Boom At Drake Well Museum
Op-Ed: Romney-Ryan Energy Plan Is Right One For PA
Former Sunoco Refinery Gets New Life
Year After Flood, PA’s Largest Fair Is Back
U.S. House Passes Bill To Reduce Disaster Loan Interest
Indiana Residents, Amish Open To Mining
Public Meeting Set On Draft Musky Fisheries Plan
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Allegheny County Delays Action On Air Toxics Rule
Allegheny County Delays Vote On Air Toxics Rules
Corbett Heckled At Philadelphia Energy Conference
Frackers, Fractivists Flock To Philly
Marcellus Shale Conference Kicks Off In Philly
Lehigh Gas Installs Natural Gas Pumps
Feds To Fund Gas Job Training In Lycoming
Environmental Group Sues NY Over Drilling Records
Reliving PA’s First Drilling Boom At Drake Well Museum
Op-Ed: Romney-Ryan Energy Plan Is Right One For PA
Former Sunoco Refinery Gets New Life
Year After Flood, PA’s Largest Fair Is Back
U.S. House Passes Bill To Reduce Disaster Loan Interest
Indiana Residents, Amish Open To Mining
Public Meeting Set On Draft Musky Fisheries Plan
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
Wednesday NewsClips
Groups Show Support For Drilling Law Challenge
First Deep Shale Well Drilled In Erie, Crawford
Drilling Opponents Target Penn State’s Accreditation
Report Targets Skills Needed To Fill Energy Jobs
Federal Grant To Build CNG Station In Butler
Planting The Roots Of Conservation In The Perkiomen
PA Envirothon Will Get Financial Boost From DEP
Toxic Air Guidelines Up For Vote Today
DEP Asks Feds To Drop Lawsuit Against Power Plant
Alpha Resources Lays Off 1,200 Workers
Volunteers Return From Fighting Wildfires
Game Commission Employees Win National Recognition
Governor Nominates 2 To Game And Fish & Boat Commissions
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
First Deep Shale Well Drilled In Erie, Crawford
Drilling Opponents Target Penn State’s Accreditation
Report Targets Skills Needed To Fill Energy Jobs
Federal Grant To Build CNG Station In Butler
Planting The Roots Of Conservation In The Perkiomen
PA Envirothon Will Get Financial Boost From DEP
Toxic Air Guidelines Up For Vote Today
DEP Asks Feds To Drop Lawsuit Against Power Plant
Alpha Resources Lays Off 1,200 Workers
Volunteers Return From Fighting Wildfires
Game Commission Employees Win National Recognition
Governor Nominates 2 To Game And Fish & Boat Commissions
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Monday, September 17, 2012
West Penn Sustainable Energy Fund Soliciting Funding Proposals
The West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund is inviting applicants to apply for its next round of Sustainable Energy Financing. Proposals are due January 9. Click Here for all the details.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Sunday NewsClips
Drilling Fee Exceeds Projections, But It Could Have Been More
Residents Along Susquehanna Still Living With Flooding Effects
How To Prepare For Next Flood
Volunteers Clean Litter From Erie Shores
Cleanup Set For Scranton Section Of Heritage Trail
One Man’s Trash Is The Hauler’s Treasure
Carrie Blast Furnace Fired Up After 30 Years
Midwest Drought, More Profits For PA Farmers
PennDOT Receives Federal Clean Energy Grant
Editorial: Power Line’s Path Of Least Resistance
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips
Residents Along Susquehanna Still Living With Flooding Effects
How To Prepare For Next Flood
Volunteers Clean Litter From Erie Shores
Cleanup Set For Scranton Section Of Heritage Trail
One Man’s Trash Is The Hauler’s Treasure
Carrie Blast Furnace Fired Up After 30 Years
Midwest Drought, More Profits For PA Farmers
PennDOT Receives Federal Clean Energy Grant
Editorial: Power Line’s Path Of Least Resistance
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips