DEP Invites Comments On Proposed Advance Restoration Plan For Trout Run Watershed, Erie County

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the June 18 PA Bulletin inviting comments on a proposed Advance Restoration Plan for Trout Run Watershed in Erie County.  (PA Bulletin, page 3519)

The impairments addressed by the plan were listed as being caused by excessive siltation due to agriculture. In addition to improving local water quality, implementation of this proposed plan may help protect the watershed’s wild trout populations, improve water quality in Lake Leboeuf, and help protect sensitive species within downstream areas of the French Creek watershed.

The ARP approach was chosen as a temporary alternative to the development of a Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL). An ARP is currently a better option for this watershed because it not only sets a pollution reduction goal, but it also lays out a comprehensive plan for restoration. 

The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy would take the leading role in plan implementation. Funding is proposed to be sought under Section 319 of the Clean Water Act among other sources. 

If the restoration plan fails to result in delisting of the siltation impairments, a TMDL per Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act would be needed in the future.

Click Here for a copy of the proposed Plan.

Read the entire PA Bulletin notice for instructions on how to submit comments and other background (PA Bulletin, page 3519).  

Questions should be directed to Michael Morris at michamorri@pa.gov or calling him at 717-772-5670.

Visit DEP’s PRP/TMDL Plans webpage for more information on this program.

For more information on environmental programs in Pennsylvania, visit DEP’s website, Click Here to sign up for DEP’s newsletter, sign up for DEP Connects events, sign up for DEP’s eNotice, visit DEP’s Blog,  Like DEP on Facebook, Follow DEP on Twitter and visit DEP’s YouTube Channel.

[Posted: June 17, 2022]  PA Environment Digest