PA Environment Daily

Senate GOP Policy Committee Sets Hearing Feb. 6 On Impact Of Refinery Closures

2012-02-03T13:11:00.002-05:00

The Senate Republican Policy Committee will hold a public hearing February 6 on the impact that three planned oil refinery closures will have on statewide fuel supplies.

Scheduled to appear before the committee are energy researcher and consultant Kevin J. Lindemer; Russell D. Christoff and John Kulik of the Pennsylvania Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association; and Dennis Rochford of the Maritime Exchange for the Delaware River and Bay.

The panel will discuss a study commissioned by PPMCSA on the impact that refinery closings in Marcus Hook, Trainer and Philadelphia could have on the supply of petroleum products – including gasoline, diesel fuel, and heating oil – in Pennsylvania.

“The immediate impact of these closings will be felt regionally, but the effects will stretch across the commonwealth,” said Sen. Ted Erickson (R-Delaware), Chair of the Committee. “These sites fill much of Pennsylvania’s petroleum needs, from border to border. The cost of home heating, transportation and more will be affected and we need to prepare for the impact ahead of time.”

The impact could be especially serious in the Pittsburgh region, where federal regulations require use of a specific blend of gasoline provided by the refineries.

“Ideally, new owners will be found for those sites and they will continue to be used as refineries,” said Sen. Dominic Pileggi (R-Delaware). “Gov. Corbett’s Action Team, a coalition of union representatives, and a group of federal, state and local officials are aggressively supporting that effort. It’s also important to understand the potential consequences if these sites close or are converted to different uses.”

If a sale is not completed, Sunoco and ConocoPhillips have indicated that the facilities could be dismantled.

The hearing will be held February 6 at 10 a.m. in the Senate Majority Caucus Room of the Capitol in Harrisburg.

Click Here for more information and to watch the hearing live online.

DEP Awards 73 Grants to Protect, Improve Watersheds in 36 Counties

2012-02-03T09:51:00.003-05:00

The Department of Environmental Protection announced Friday it will invest in 73 watershed protection projects intended to improve watersheds, stormwater runoff, acid mine drainage and educational programs, among other environmental efforts.

This year, the Growing Greener Program, which is funded by the Environmental Stewardship Fund, will award $9.72 million for 57 projects around the state.

An additional project, funded by the Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Grant, will cost $72,912. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Section 319 Nonpoint Source Management Program, which was created through the federal Clean Water Act to help reduce water pollution from nonpoint sources, is funding 15 additional projects, which would total $3.12 million.

"We are delighted to provide support to local communities and watershed groups to fund projects that enhance and protect Pennsylvania's water quality," DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said. "That includes projects that address abandoned mine drainage, stream bank restoration, stormwater reductions and agricultural runoff."

These projects will reduce nonpoint source pollution in watersheds where streams are impaired by implementing agricultural and stormwater best-management practices; developing, repairing or installing passive systems to treat abandoned mine drainage; and supporting the establishment of riparian buffers, among other goals.

One of the Growing Greener program's goals is to invest in projects that protect watersheds from impairment due to nonpoint source pollution or those that will restore damaged waterways.

Some examples of priority areas are restoration activities to reduce pollutant load in impaired watersheds for which total maximum daily loads have been developed; projects in priority watersheds that would reduce the source of impairment; and priority activities that lead to water quality restoration and protection.

In this latest grant round, 130 applicants request about $24.5 million. Applications came from counties, authorities and other municipalities; county conservation districts; councils of governments; watershed organizations that promote local watershed conservation efforts; and other authorized organizations involved in restoring and protecting the environment.

A list of projects funded is available online.

Growing Greener Is Broke

The Growing Greener Program is now all but bankrupt and the program needs to be refunded. The Marcellus Shale drilling impact fee bills now pending in the General Assembly and a potential transfer from the DCNR Oil and Gas Fund are the best possibilities to see the program continue. Visit the Renew Growing Greener Coalition website for more information.

For more information on Growing Greener or to see the complete list of grant recipients, send email to: GrowingGreener@pa.gov, call 717-705-4500 or visit DEP's Growing Greener webpage.

Pre-Budget Brief: Environmental Programs Were Cut $1.5 Billion, When Is Enough?

2012-02-03T09:35:00.001-05:00

Gov. Corbett presents his budget proposal Tuesday to a joint session of the General Assembly and about the only good news expected is-- we're not as broke as the federal government.

So far what Budget Secretary Charles Zogby said during his mid-year budget briefing in December is holding up, unfortunately. He expected an end-of-fiscal year deficit of $500 million and as of now we are at $497 million. Some are now saying the deficit will go as high as $800 million.

He also said the Governor's budget will have to accommodate more than $1 billion in unavoidable spending growth in the 2012-13 state budget. He pointed to a $520 million in increase school ($320 million) and state employee ($200 million) pension costs, $400 million increase in Medical Assistance and an $80 million increase in debt service, in spite of efforts to cut costs.

The bottom line, Secretary Zogby said, is the Governor is likely to need about $750 million to bring the FY 2012-13 budget into balance. Drawing a line, he said the Governor is not going to make up the shortfall with tax increases.

At the beginning of January, Gov. Corbett directed his Budget Office to freeze nearly $160 million in state spending. The Governor also asked government entities not under his jurisdiction to reduce their spending by nearly $66 million, although they haven't really come through.

On top of that, state agencies were asked to submit a budget for FY 2012-13 assuming a further 5 percent reduction in spending, with no exemptions.

He noted ven more cuts may be in store if federal funding is cut through automatic sequestration.

The Corbett Administration has also cut the number of new Capital Budget project authorizations in half. Of course that didn't stop the state from spending $100 million to buy an existing building-- the Forum Place in Harrisburg-- just a few weeks ago.

The Governor also signed legislation-- Senate Bill 1310 (Gordner-R-Columbia)-- authorizing the state to float $4.5 billion in new state bonds, the largest bond issue ever for the Commonwealth, to repay monies loaned from the federal government for unemployment compensation.

Asked if the Governor will be addressing transportation funding needs, Secretary Zogby said the state continues to see a weak economy and reductions in state revenue and that will affect whether or not the Governor will move forward with a transportation funding plan. And that has been the Governor's position ever since.

Also pending is Marcellus Shale impact fee legislation which the Governor, and House and Senate Republicans have been working on for months that could generate several hundred million dollars for communities impacted by drilling and to fund some environmental programs.

As of Friday, negotiators were working to put the finishing touches on a proposal they hope to put up for a vote on Monday in the Senate.

The Governor and key players in the budget process all agree-- the budget is about setting priorities for spending the revenue we have. On Tuesday we find out the priorities Gov. Corbett has.

Recapping The FY 2011-12 Budget

Last year the General Assembly and Governor approved spending $27.1 billion, a 4.1 percent reduction in spending from the FY 2010-11 funding levels and without any tax increases.

There are no provisions for re-funding the Growing Greener Program which became all but bankrupt this year. Just $6 million in Growing Greener funds will be available for the next round of grants, down from its peak of $50.1 million in 2001.

And of course, there was no Marcellus Shale legislation.

Funding for the PA Center for Environmental Education was zeroed out-- $368,000-- as well as funding for the McKeever Environmental Center-- $213,000.

The only bright spots in the budget were conservation district funding remained at previous levels, the Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) Farm Conservation Tax Credit Program which was restored to its full $10 million in funding.

There were no raids on other environmental funds, like the Oil and Gas Fund, Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund, the Recycling Fund or the Storage Tank Fund to help balance the state budget like there were during the Rendell Administration.

$1.5 Billion Cut/Diverted From Environmental Programs

For those keeping score, a total of $1.5 billion has been diverted or cut from environmental programs to help balance the state budget or to fund programs that could not get funding on their own over the last nine years.

Here are the highlights of the cuts and diversions--

-- $481 million in Act 339 grants intended to support wastewater plant operations over the last nine years were eliminated to balance the budget;

-- $143 million diverted from the DCNR Oil and Gas Fund to balance the FY 2008-09 budget;

-- $79 million cut from the DEP and DCNR General Fund budget during FY2009-10;

-- $60 million diverted from the DCNR Oil and Gas Fund to balance the FY 2009-10 budget;

-- $100 million in 2002 from the Underground Storage Tank cleanup insurance fund to balance the budget (although this is slowly being repaid over 10 years);

-- $52.7 million “one-time” diversion from the Keystone Recreation, Parks and Conservation Fund in 2006 to balance the budget;

-- $50 million in 2007 and 2008 from the Environmental Stewardship Fund, which supports mine reclamation and watershed restoration, to fund the Hazardous Sites Cleanup Program because there was no agreement on how to fund that program;

-- $164.3 million in FY 2007-08, 2008-09, 2009-10, 2010-11, 2011-12 from the Environmental Stewardship Fund to pay debt service on the Growing Greener II bond issue and taking funding away from restoration projects each year for the next 25 years – reflecting a pattern of only environmental programs being required to address their own bond debt service;

-- $15 million from the Recycling Fund in to balance the FY 2008-09 budget;

-- $18.4 million put into budgetary reserve in 2008-09 from the Department of Environmental Protection and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources;

-- $5 million reduction in Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) farm conservation tax credit program in FY 2009-10;

-- $102.8 million cut from the DEP and DCNR General Fund budget in FY 2010-11 budget;

-- $180 million diverted from the DCNR Oil and Gas Fund to General Fund in proposed FY 2010-11 budget;

-- $5.5 million reduction in Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) farm conservation tax credits in FY 2010-11;

-- $5 million in additional cuts to the agencies to balance the FY 2010-11 budget;

-- $3.9 million in across-the-board cuts to help fill gaps caused by reduced federal Medicaid appropriations-- $2.4 million from DEP, $1.5 million from DCNR;

-- $669,000 from the Safe Water line item in DEP's budget;

-- $102.8 million cut continued from the FY 2010-11 DEP and DCNR General Fund budget in FY 2011-12 budget; and

-- Mid-year budget freeze cuts additional resources for environmental programs: Agriculture: $2.6 million; DCNR: $1.5 million; and DEP: $4.2 million.

DEP/DCNR Staff Cuts

Complement levels over the last 9 years at DEP were reduced by over 500 positions from 3,211 in FY 2002-03 to below about 2,770 now, even less if you take out the more than 105 positions DEP added for the Marcellus Shale drilling inspection and permit program.

The FY 2011-12 budget reduced DEP complement levels by 69 positions.

In addition, the Rendell Administration used over 100 DEP Air, Waste and Water Quality field staff to act as managers for federal stimulus projects, projects funded by the Energy Harvest and PA Energy Development Authority programs taking time away from permit reviews, inspections and compliance activities.

The FY 2009-10 budget cuts alone required DEP and DCNR to furlough or eliminate 333 full time positions. DCNR had to eliminate or reduce hours for 1,131 seasonal workers, putting appropriations for DEP at 1994 levels and for DCNR at 1995-96 levels.

One result of all these cuts is the permit review backlog DEP said was already building in 2009 and in truth the last 7 years, delaying hundreds of millions of dollars in economic development projects across the state.

Complement levels at DCNR were 1,391 in FY 2002-03 and have been reduced to about 1,389 positions now of which about 1,289 positions are filled.

The current complement numbers will be updated as part of the Governor's budget announcement Tuesday.

Of course, DEP and DCNR still have the same amount of work to do, the same laws to enforce and State Forests and State Parks to protect and manage.

In the case of DEP, they face the further challenge of new programs to get up and running, like the electronics recycling program, and the continuing challenges of regulating Marcellus Shale drilling.

General Fund Budget Perspective

The state's General Fund budget has always been a huge part of how environmental programs and agencies are funded, but that has changed dramatically over the last 9 years.

In most cases, General Fund cuts to DEP and Agriculture resulted in significant staff reductions with only a small portion being made up in things like permit review fee increases. In the case of DCNR, monies from the Oil and Gas Fund fed by Marcellus Shale drilling revenues on State Forest land made up many of the losses.

Here's some perspective--

-- Dept. of Environmental Protection:
General Fund FY 2002-03: $728.2 million

General Fund FY 2011-12: $135.4 million

-- Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources:
General Fund FY 2002-03: $322.9 million

General Fund FY 2011-12: $55.2 million

-- Department of Agriculture:
General Fund FY 2002-03: $274.3 million

General Fund FY 2011-12: $133 million

Permit Review Fees

The Department of Environmental Protection in particular has been trying to make up for some of the General Fund budget cuts finalizing about $27.8 million in fee increases over the last 18 months as a result of Rendell Administration initiatives:

-- Marcellus Shale Drilling Permits: $7,465,000 (from $935,000 to $8.4 million annually);

-- NPDES Water Quality Permits: $4,250,000 (from $750,000 to $5 million annually);

-- Chapter 102 Regulations: $6,665,000 (from $635,000 to $7.3 million annually);

-- Laboratory Certification: $1,550,000 (from $500,000 to $1.6 million annually);

-- Beneficial Use of Coal Ash: $75,000 annually; and

-- Uniform Environmental Covenants: $82,250 annually.

Another fee package for Air Quality Permits was adopted as final by the Environmental Quality Board in November 2010. The new fees would have raised $7.8 million (from $19,570,000 to $27,408,000 annually).

Although adopted as final by the EQB, DEP has decided not to take the steps needed to publish them as final in the PA Bulletin and they are considered withdrawn.

DEP also proposed additional fee increases totaling just over $7 million in the last 18 months, again all in the Rendell Administration:

-- Coal Surface Mining Permits: $350,000 (from $50,000 to $400,000 annually), the fees were published as proposed for comment and are still with DEP for finalization;

-- Non-Coal Surface Mining Permits: $2,475,000 (from $25,000 to $2,500,000 annually), DEP just solicited additional public comments on the fee package; and

-- Dam Safety and Water Management Permits: $4,267,612 a year (dam safety would increase to $1,390.850 from $28,000 and waterway management permit fees income would increase to $2,952,612 from $47,850) [Note: these revenue numbers were revised downward from the original Fee Report Form published with the proposed regulation in December 2010.] ;
In December DEP took action to withdraw proposed Drinking Water permit fee increases adopted by the Environmental Quality Board in November 2010 which would have generated $8.1 million (from $250,000 to $8,385,000 annually).

With all this as background, you'll be better able to sort through the Governor's proposal on Tuesday.

NewsClips:

Scarnati: Drilling Fee Legislation Near

Corbett Tells Legislators To Send Him Marcellus Bill ASAP

With Timer Ticking, Shale Talks Continue

Column: We're Waiting For Marcellus Legislation

Center: State Lost Over $300 Million Without Marcellus Gas Tax

Drilling, Drilling Everywhere Is Local Officials' Fear

Op-Ed: Much Debate On Shale Drilling, More To Come
Editorial: Keep Local Say On Drilling

Democrats Push Governor To Increase Transportation Funding
State Democrats Lobby For Transportation Funds

State Tax Collections Down Just $10 Million In January

PA Employees' Unions Suggest Ways To Cut State Budget

Lawmakers Prepare For Tough Budget Message From Governor

Editorial: Build Revenue, Fairness

State Tax Collections Down Just $10 Million In January

Editorial: Bills Finally Seek To Close Tax Evasion Loophole

PA Pursues Internet Sales Taxes

PA Residents Must Now Track, Pay Sales Tax For Online Purchases

Friday NewsClips

2012-02-03T06:35:00.000-05:00

Octoraro Orphie Says Spring Around The Corner
Drilling, Drilling Everywhere Is Local Officials' Fear
Source For Dimock's Emergency Water Disputes Cabot Arsenic Claim
Water Utility Rebuts Cabot Arsenic Claims In Dimock
Cabot Says EPA Ignored Science On Dimock's Water
PA Driller's $2.2 Million To Pay For Hazardous Dam Fix
Editorial: Drilling Briefs
Op-Ed: Much Debate On Shale Drilling, More To Come
Drillers Could Take Lesson From Dust Bowl
Could Cheap Natural Gas Slow Renewable Energy Growth?
Dead Bat Delaying Fed Approval For PA Wind Farm
Get Your Wind Power Here, Group Urges
Your Power, My Friend, Can Be Blown By The Wind
Consol Energy Doubles Down On Romney
Chosen Route Best For Susquehanna-Roseland Power Line Project
Editorial: Warming Fiction, The Facts Prevail
Op-Ed: Recent DCNR Changes Were Based On Cost Efficiency
Click Here for today's PA Capitol Digest NewsClips

West Penn Power Fund Soliciting Alternative Energy, Efficiency Proposals

2012-02-02T08:44:00.002-05:00

The West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund is now accepting proposals for grants and loans to fund projects which focus on biomass thermal and power technologies, energy efficiency, sustainable energy manufacturing and community energy events. Proposals are due April 3.

While a particular project ceiling or floor has not been set by the WPPSEF, most project financing requests are expected to be in the $50,000 to $300,000 range. WPPSEF interest rates and fees mirror the market and are typically similar to commercial banks.

WPPSEF grant making will be limited to non-profits, except in cases where a limited amount of grant making is coupled with financing. WPPSEF grant making is expected to be very competitive and applicants must show clear benefit to the WPP ratepayer.

The WPPSEF anticipates its grant making efforts to be capped at $25,000 per award. Exceptions to this cap may be made for those projects that the WPPSEF deems as having high impact on the sustainable energy industry.

Click Here for details on how to submit proposals.

Thursday NewsClips

2012-02-02T06:45:00.005-05:00

Corbett Visits Groundhog This Morning
State Tax Collections Down Just $10 Million In January
PA Employees' Unions Suggest Ways To Cut State Budget
Corbett Wants Limits On Local Regulation Of Drillers
Corbett: Keep Local Zoning Restrictions In Marcellus Impact Fee
Corbett Reasserts Position On Drilling Plan
Corbett Tells Legislators To Send Him Marcellus Bill ASAP
Advocates, Industry Champion Frack Fluid Disclosure
Marcellus Shale Well Flares Attracting Attention
Judge Nixes Papers' Access To Gas Settlement
Judge Rules Cabot Lawyers Can Stay
Texas Law Requires Disclosure Of Drilling Cocktails
Columbia Gas Customers May Pay More
NiSource To Build $145 Million Gas Pipeline In Western PA
3 States Offer Big Tax Breaks For Shell Oil Plant
Wheeling Touted As Center Of Utica, Marcellus Shale
Ohio Tries To Escape Fate As Drilling Wastewater Dumping Ground
Nearly 2 Million Gallons Of Raw Sewage Leaks Into Susquehanna
NRC Downgrades Accident Risk At Nuclear Plants
Reactor Threats Lowered By NRC
Nuclear Plants Must Assess Quake Threats
Backyards To Get Ecological Boost
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips

DEP Seeks Information About Antique Medical Kit Containing Radium-226

2012-02-01T15:10:00.000-05:00

The Department of Environmental Protection is asking anyone who knows the history of an antique medical kit found in a Chester County trash bin to contact the agency’s Bureau of Radiation Protection.

“The radioactive material may have been contained in the kit for more than 80 years,” Bureau Director David Allard said. “The metal box likely came from a basement, an attic or a collector’s stash. Anyone who tampered with it or stored it for a long time may have been exposed to high levels of radiation.”

The material was found January 19, when a load of construction debris set off radiation alarms at Waste Management Inc.’s Norristown transfer station. The company deployed a health physicist to recover the radioactive material, identified as approximately one curie of radium-226. Exposure to one curie of radium-226 is equivalent to having more than 100 CT scans at once, and it has the potential to create skin burns within a few hours of contact.

DEP health physicists worked with Waste Management to properly evaluate and store the radium, and traced its source to a roll-off container that had come from the Hershey’s Mill retirement community in West Chester.

The radium-226 was contained in four capsules inside a small lead safe marked “Radium Chemical Co., Inc.” The safe and some antique surgical equipment were stored inside a larger, locking metal box, which had been pried open.

“Although the capsules do not appear to be leaking, we believe that someone could have had direct contact with these sources of radium-226,” Allard said. “The radioactive radium they contain is about five times the amount found in modern medical sources, and we are concerned about the health of anyone who may have handled them.”

Anyone with information about the kit is asked to contact Allard at 717-787-2480. All calls are confidential.

Photos of the lead safe and other contents of the box will be posted on DEP's Bureau of Radiation Protection webpage.

PA Resources Council Announces 2011 Lens On Litter Contest Winners

2012-02-01T08:18:00.003-05:00

"Simple but powerful" are the words that best describe the winning photos and captions of the 2011 "Lens on Litter" contest winners sponsored by the PA Resources Council.

PRC had a great response from residents participating in the 26th Annual Lens on Litter contest from all over the state. The entries were placed into two categories – school children and adults. Judging was conducted at PRC’s Environmental Living Center in Newtown Square, Pa.

The objective of PRC’s Lens On Litter Contest is to focus public attention on the problems of litter. Litter is a quality of life issue that needs to be addressed by all. Litter is unsightly. It attracts rodents and insects that carry and spread disease. Farm animals, pets and wildlife often ingest poisonous matter and harmful items.

In the “School Children Category,” the winner of the $1,000 First Place cash prize was 17-year-old Kristen Bulebush of Latrobe. (photo with this story) Her photo, “Tune into Litter,” was taken in Latrobe in October. The photo depicts a discarded TV surrounded by litter.

The judges awarded the second place prize of $500 to Francis Tish, a 17-year-old senior from Pittsburgh. His photo “Don’t Be on the Fence About Litter” shows a large snack bag blown against a cyclone fence.

The winner of the third place prize of $250 was Kristen Miller, a 15-year-old ninth grader from Penn Trafford High School. Her photo, “Missed the Basket,” depicts soft drink and water bottles discarded along a basketball court fence with a trash can nearby. The site of the littering was the Penn Township Municipal Park. This is the fourth year in a row that Kristen has won a prize.

Cardin McQueen, an 18-year old senior won The Peoples Choice Award of a digital camera. Her photo “Poor Reflection” shows the image of a barn in a pond littered with a floating discarded water bottle.

The winner of the $1,000 First Place cash prize in the “Adult Category” was Sharon Richards of Towanda. Her photo showing discarded bottles and other litter including a tire was titled “One Heavy-Duty Trash Bag 17 Cents – Working Toward a Litter Free Pennsylvania Priceless.”

Pam Curilla of Weston was awarded the second place prize of $500. Her photo, “Sweeping Changes Are Needed to Tackle Litter” shows a broom among scattered litter.

The judges awarded third place ($250) to Coni Marie Sheridan of New Columbia for her photo “Environmental Hangover.” Her photo shows discarded beer bottles.

Cathy Bittinger of Reading won the Peoples Choice Award of a digital camera. Her photo “Litter Is Trash That Escapes Restraint” depicts litter piled at a retaining wall. Taking the first letter of each word of the title spells litter.

PRC would like to thank AAA Mid-Atlantic, Inc., BPG Development Co., Pennoni Associates, Sheetz, Inc. and Wawa, Inc. for their generosity and sponsorship of the 2011 Lens on Litter contest.
2012 Lens On Litter Contest

PRC encourages all school students and adults to enter the 2012 Lens On Litter Contest, which is already open for entries and which closes October 31. With more entries, more people will become aware of the problem of litter, and the more likely it is that someday we will all live in a litter-free world!

The winning photos will be displayed on the PRC website which gets approximately 200,000 hits per year. Click here to view all of the winning photos and captions. Click Here to view winners as a slideshow.

The February issue of the PA Resources Council electronic newsletter is now available. Click Here to read this issue. Don't forget PRC's "Don't Be A Litterbug" vehicle license plate available from PennDOT!

Wednesday NewsClips

2012-02-01T06:33:00.003-05:00

Center: State Lost Over $300 Million Without Marcellus Gas Tax
Cabot Questions EPA's Justification For Dimock Water
Cabot Raises New Questions About EPA Data In Dimock
Cabot Says EPA Used Faulty Pollution Data For Dimock Water
North Branch Land Trust Will Allow Drilling
Op-Ed: Minimize Drilling's Threat To Clean Air
WQED: Economic Potential Of Marcellus Shale
Ground Water Professionals Urge More Fracking Studies
Maryland Bill Would Ban Import Of Fracking Wastewater
Natural Gas Prices To Fall Nearly 10 Percent
Former Senator Kury Discusses Environmental Issues
PPL Says Water Gap Best Route For Power Line
NRC Releases New Seismic Guidelines For Nuclear Plants
Feds Target Surface Mine Accidents
Wynnewood Neighbors Buy Up Meadow
Push For Recreation Trails Near Lancaster City
A Winter Without Ice Fishing In Erie? It Might Happen
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest NewsClips

DCNR Invites Students To Apply For Summer Environmental Careers Camp

2012-01-31T12:18:00.002-05:00

Young Pennsylvanians interested in pursuing environmental careers are invited to apply by April 1 for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources’ summer residential camp, DCNR Secretary Richard Allan said Tuesday.

“Now entering its tenth year, the Exploring Careers Outdoors Camp has become one of DCNR’s strongest success stories,” said Allan. “We’ve successfully worked with scores of young people to hone their awareness of the natural world and the variety of related careers available to them.”

The six-day camp will begin Sunday, July 8, at Kirby Episcopal House and Chapel, Glen Summit, Luzerne County. The camp is near Nescopeck State Park and about 10 miles south of Wilkes-Barre.

“Many DCNR staffers have supported this camp effort,” Allan said. “Past campers have come from small towns and large cities, forming a unique pool of intelligence, spirit and commitment to environmental improvement.”

The camp will introduce 20 to 25 students in grades 10-12 to conservation and environmental careers, and encourage their pursuit. From wildlife conservation projects and stream sampling of aquatic life, to forestry skills, daily activities will offer students a hands-on, team-building learning experience in an outdoor setting.

Participants are exposed to a wide range of career experiences, including water quality assessments, geology field studies, and overnight camping experiences. They will also meet conservation professionals to learn about career opportunities.

Offered free of charge, the instruction and daily activities will be overseen by specialists and officials of DCNR’s bureaus of State Parks, Forestry, and Topographic and Geologic Survey. After the camp, attendees will have a chance to seek internships, mentoring and job-shadowing positions, and can potentially return as future camp leaders.

For more details and applications, visit the DCNR Eco Camp webpage or send email to: ECO_Camp@pa.gov; write to ECO Camp Coordinator, Bureau of State Parks, Outdoor Programming Services Division, P.O. Box 8551, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8551; or call 724-865-7857.

Ridge Global Names James Seif To Lead New Energy Consulting Services Practice

2012-01-31T09:11:00.002-05:00

Ridge Global, an international provider of security and risk management services, announced Tuesday the appointment of James Seif, former Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, as principal of the company's new Energy Consulting Services practice.

"Ridge Global's Energy Consulting Services practice launched out of our clients' need and desire to harness, transmit and use natural resources from across the energy spectrum," said Tom Ridge, president and CEO of Ridge Global. "Jim Seif has tremendous expertise in the development and implementation of energy and environmental initiatives at both the state and national levels. His contributions will be a valuable asset to this practice and to our clients' success."

Seif started his career in the U.S. Attorney's Office in Pittsburgh, Pa, prosecuting some of the earliest environmental cases of the modern era. After that, he served as chief of the Legal Branch at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in Philadelphia, and then rejoined the U.S. Justice Department in the Criminal Division.

Mr. Seif later served as administrative assistant to Gov. Dick Thornburgh and then regional administrator of the EPA's six-state office in Philadelphia. Following that work, he joined the environmental practice at the law firm of Dechert Price and Rhoads.

In 1995, then-Gov. Tom Ridge appointed Mr. Seif as secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection. In 2000, Seif received a Lifetime Award for Public Service from the National Academy of Public Administration for his 30-year career in state and federal government. Mr. Seif later became vice president for Corporate Relations at PPL, Inc., a Fortune 500 energy and utility company in Allentown, Pa.

He currently serves on the boards of BioChem Technology and Laser Pipeline, and as an advisory committee member of the Dick Thornburgh Legacy Project at the University of Pittsburgh. He holds a political science degree from Yale University and a law degree from the University of Pittsburgh.

"Ridge Global understands the full and positive potential that shale gas formations and broader energy portfolios can have on our nation's national security, economy and environment," said Seif. "I'm delighted to join this forward thinking team and look forward to pursuing innovative new environmental and energy solutions with our clients."

Tuesday NewsClips

2012-01-31T06:42:00.001-05:00

Scarnati: Drilling Fee Legislation Near
With Timer Ticking, Shale Talks Continue
Editorial: Keep Local Say On Drilling
Landowners Fight Eminent Domain In PA Gas Field
DEP Puts More Drilling Information Online
DEP Calls For Marcellus Air Data
Hanger Slams CBS For Dimock Story
Did Muppets Push Anti-Oil Agenda? Kermit Says No
Rep. Miller To Chair Chesapeake Bay Commission Delegation
Harrisburg Cuts Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement Cost In Half
Farm Bureau Seeks Summary Judgment In Chesapeake Bay Suit
Officials: Threat Of Radon High In State
Pittsburgh Terminal Building Has New Green Life
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

AP- Sen. Scarnati Hopes For Marcellus Bill In A Week

2012-01-30T16:59:00.001-05:00

HARRISBURG, Pa. (AP) — Pennsylvania's highest-ranking state senator says he thinks an agreement on a sweeping bill to impose a fee on the booming natural gas drilling industry can be finished in a week, right before Gov. Tom Corbett unveils his budget plan. Click Here for full story.

Audubon/Toyota TogetherGreen Accepting Applications For Fellowship, Innovation Grants

2012-01-30T16:44:00.002-05:00

TogetherGreen, a conservation alliance between the National Audubon Society and Toyota, is now accepting applications for its 2012 class of Fellows and Innovation Grantees. Applications are due March 5.

The goals of the initiative are to foster conservation leadership, achieve conservation results, forge partnerships in communities, and engage millions of Americans in conservation action.

Do you have a conservation idea that uses innovative approaches and technologies?

Have you conceived of a unique way to conserve or restore habitat and protect species? Improve water quality or quantity? Reduce the threat of global warming?

Are you interested in engaging a new and diverse audience in conservation action.

If so, consider applying to these two programs to support your people-powered conservation solutions:

-- TogetherGreen Conservation Fellowships invest in individuals who are committed to empowering others and to creating positive environmental change in their communities and organizations. Fellows receive a $10,000 grant to conduct a 12-month conservation action project in their community, as well as specialized training and support to help shape and implement their projects. They also become part of a dynamic alumni network of conservation professionals from across the country.

-- TogetherGreen Innovation Grants annually provide essential funding that enables Audubon groups and others toinspire, equip, and support activities that engage new and diverse audiences in conservation action and create healthier communities. A minimum of 40 projects will receive funding, totaling more than $1 million dollars of support—with grants ranging from $5,000-$80,000. Grants will be reviewed by an expert advisory panel, and the average grant awarded will be around $25,000.

Since 2008, TogetherGreen-funded projects have engaged more than 200,000 individuals in conservation in all 50 states. The first three classes of Fellows and Grantees have accomplished inspiring results, recruiting thousands of volunteers to help make environmental improvements in their communities, such as planting over 110,000 native plants and trees, engaging more than 100,000 individuals in environmental education, and improving nearly 10,000 acres through conservation action.

“TogetherGreen offers people a chance to change lives and communities. How cool is that?” said David Yarnold, National Audubon Society President. “If you have an idea that will engage a community to protect the environment, we want to hear it. When communities, and individuals, are touched by TogetherGreen – they become better places to live.”

Candidates for the TogetherGreen Fellows program must have at least six years experience in some aspect of the environment, a passion for conservation, the desire to learn and grow, and an interest and ability to reach diverse and previously underrepresented audiences.

An advisory committee composed of conservation professionals and experts in environmental education, communications, outreach, and conservation planning assist with the awards selection.

If you or someone you know has a creative environmental project and would like to apply, visit the TogetherGreen Fellowship or Innovation Grant webpages. The webpages feature application guidelines, selection criteria, eligibility, benefits, and online applications for both programs.

Coca-Cola, Keep America Beautiful Accepting Recycling Bin Grant Applications

2012-01-30T14:14:00.002-05:00

The Coca-Cola Company and Keep America Beautiful, Inc. Monday announced a call for entries for the newly expanded 2012 Coca-Cola Recycling Bin Grant Program, a program designed to expand and support recycling in communities across America.

Applications are due March 2.

The Coca-Cola Recycling Bin Grant Program is funded through grants from The Coca-Cola Foundation.

For 2012, Coca-Cola has significantly expanded its investment in the Bin Grant Program to include both a specific college and university focused grant and the traditional public space recycling bin grant.

“Through the Coca-Cola Bin Grant Program, we’ve provided more than 20,000 recycling bins to help communities across the United States increase recycling. We hope that by expanding this program to include additional funding dedicated to colleges and universities, we can further improve recycling and have a positive impact on the next generation of leaders,” said Lori George Billingsley, community relations vice president for Coca-Cola Refreshments.

“Providing recycling opportunities in public spaces is an important national initiative for our organization as we aim to increase our nation’s recycling rates,” said Matthew M. McKenna, president and CEO of Keep America Beautiful. “Through public-private partnerships such as this one with Coca-Cola, we can provide recycling infrastructure to local organizations that might not otherwise be able to afford it. We are truly grateful to The Coca-Cola Company for its continued support.”

Eligible grant recipients for the public space grant include government agencies, civic organizations, schools and nonprofit groups. Colleges and universities will complete a different application for the newly established grant dedicated to them.

Successful applicants will be notified by Keep America Beautiful on or before April 22 to offer guidance, confirm their needs and solidify bin selection. Suppliers will deliver bins directly to the recipients throughout the summer.

For more information visit the Coca-Cola Recycling Bin Grant Program website.

Help Wanted: Western PA Conservancy VP For Watershed Conservation

2012-01-30T14:13:00.002-05:00

Western Pennsylvania Conservancy has an exciting opening for an experienced conservation leader to manage its Watershed Conservation program. This position is a key member of the Conservancy’s leadership team and reports directly to WPC’s President and Chief Executive Officer.

The deadline for applications is March 1.

Under the direction of the President and C.E.O. and in partnership with executive management and the Board of Directors, the Associate Vice President is responsible for developing and leading Western Pennsylvania Conservancy’s overall strategic direction for watershed conservation, which includes implementing and managing watershed assistance program projects, securing program funding and resources, and building and maintaining partnerships with like-minded organizations, and local, state, regional and federal agencies.

The position is based primarily in Indiana, PA, with some time in the Pittsburgh, PA office.

The successful candidate will demonstrate broad-based thinking about conservation, particularly watershed conservation and restoration, conservation science and energy impacts on watersheds. The Conservancy is seeking a collaborative, dynamic, proven leader who is able to build on a very successful program and take it to the next level. The position may also entail leadership over the Conservancy’s Conservation Services program.

WPC is looking for the following experience, education and competencies:

-- Masters degree or equivalent in watershed science, stream ecology, wetlands ecology or bio-hydrology, or other equivalent and relevant degrees such as conservation, policy, etc.;

-- 5 plus years in a watershed project management experience including managing projects to remediate watershed problems caused by non-point source pollution from mine or agriculture impacts, or equivalent and relevant experience in other conservation related fields;

-- 5 years management experience; some senior-level management experience strongly preferred;

-- Outstanding interpersonal, written and verbal communication skills and the ability to work effectively with others to achieve goals;

-- A proven track record with partnership-building and successful fund raising;

-- Strong strategic planning and management skills; skill in financial and budget management;

-- Skill in examining and re-engineering operations and procedures, formulating policy, and developing and implementing new strategies;

-- Ability to analyze complex problems, interpret operational needs, and develop integrated, creative solutions; ability to think creatively and proactively; and

-- Organizational planning, structuring, and staffing skills; employee development and performance management skills.

To apply, send a cover letter, resume, and professional references to: wpcjobs@paconserve.org and list AVP in the subject line of the email.

Executive Deputy John Hines Leaving DEP

2012-01-30T11:41:00.002-05:00

John Hines, Executive Deputy Secretary for Programs at the Department of Environmental Protection will leaving his position on February 17 to pursue an opportunity in the private sector.

John has worked for DEP since 1993 and was appointed Executive Deputy in January 2011 by Gov. Tom Corbett. He has served for more than a decade in various other senior management and executive positions within DEP, including as Deputy Secretary for Water Management.

Prior to his appointment as Deputy for Water Management, John served as Executive Director of DEP’s Water Planning Office and as the Acting Director of Watershed Management. In this capacity he oversaw activities related to nonpoint source pollution management, stormwater management, water allocation and planning, conservation districts, interstate river basin commissions, estuary programs, national organizations, state water planning efforts, coastal resource management and overall water management budgeting and internal program development.

John served as the lead negotiator for DEP in the final stage of the passage of the Water Resources Planning Act (Act 220 of 2002). He was also critical to the drafting of Annex 2001 that was signed by the eight Great Lakes States and the Provinces of Ontario and Quebec.

He also took a leadership role in the development of Pennsylvania’s strategy to revive the Chesapeake Bay. Most recently, he helped to draft and implement the reorganization of the department.

In an email announcing John's resignation, DEP Secretary Michael Krancer said, "John's insight, sound judgment and rapport with coworkers, the regulated community and all the stakeholders we serve, is well recognized. I have worked with John for only a year and I have seen it. Many others have too over the years. John has won numerous awards and accolades from the constituents he serves. Join me in wishing him well and much success in his new endeavors."

A Presidential Scholar, John holds a Bachelors Degree in Social Sciences and a Masters Degree in Geography and Regional Planning from the California University of Pennsylvania.

A native of Greene County, he currently resides in Palmyra, Lebanon County, with his wife, Amy, and his children, Alexis and Matthew.

PA American Water Opens Protect Our Watersheds Student Art Contest

2012-01-30T11:40:00.002-05:00

PA American Water Monday announced entries are now being accepted for its 10th Annual “Protect Our Watersheds” Student Art Contest. The deadline for submissions is March 30.

All fourth-, fifth-, and sixth-grade students in schools served by PA American Water are eligible, as well as individual students who live in the company’s service area.

The contest encourages students to draw on their artistic talents to convey the importance of protecting Pennsylvania’s watersheds and water resources.

This month, PA American Water is mailing contest applications to teachers in nearly 500 schools in its service territory. Winners will be selected based on creative vision, artistic talent, understanding of watershed protection and the ability to communicate that understanding.

As part of their entry, students must write a brief narrative on the personal impact of watershed protection.

“In celebrating the art contest’s 10th year, we are proud of how it taps into children’s imagination and creativity to instill the importance of environmental stewardship,” said Pennsylvania American Water President Kathy L. Pape. “We’ve seen participation grow year after year as more teachers, parents and students use the contest as a learning opportunity to understand how humans can positively and negatively impact our watershed and drinking water sources.”

In 2011, the company received more than 700 entries from students across the state. The grand prize winner was Brynn May Lilley of Hutchinson Elementary School in Uniontown, Fayette County.

In total, six students will be recognized, with a first-, second- and third-place winner selected from eastern and western Pennsylvania.

First-place winners will be rewarded with a $100 gift card to Barnes & Noble. Two second- and third-place winners will be awarded a $50 and $25 gift card, respectively.

In addition, the overall grand prize winner will have her/his artwork featured on “Bloomer” cards distributed by PA American Water. Bloomer cards are seed-filled packets that, when planted and tended, produce a variety of wildflowers. All entrants will receive a Watershed Champion certificate.

Awards will be presented in May as part of National Drinking Water Week activities.

Contest guidelines and entry forms are available online.

Monday NewsClips

2012-01-30T06:26:00.002-05:00

Counties Scramble To Find Shale Employees Homes
Column: Natural Gas Filling Station Fuels Questions
Midstaters Switch From Oil To Gas In Flood Repairs
Utilities Extend Gas Lines If It Makes Economic Sense
Lower Swatara Twp Applies For Flood Buyout Money
Joshua Whetzel, Scientist, Conservationist, Passes
Export-Based Company's Camera Follows Black Bear
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Sunday NewsClips

2012-01-29T07:30:00.004-05:00

Column: We're Waiting For Marcellus Legislation
$520 Million Natural Gas Pipeline Project In Doubt
Chesapeake Energy Stock Retreats After Drilling Plans
PA, Two Neighbors Vie To Procure Cracker
Aither Chemical Wants Multiple Ethane Plants In Region
Obama Courts Marcellus Shale Region Voters
NRCS Conservation Service Review Of 2011
New Law Powers Lebanon County Electronics Recycling
Don't Waste Heating Oil
Pittsburgh's Locks, Dams Approach Scary Status
Built In 1936, Montgomery Dam On Track For Major Failure
Ohiopyle: A Park For All Seasons, Including Winterfest
As PA Elk Population Increases, So Do Complaints
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Saturday NewsClips

2012-01-28T05:40:00.003-05:00

In Dimock, EPA Testing Draws Mixed Reaction
New Databases Improve Access To State Drilling Records
Boom In Shale Drilling Slows PA Crude Oil Industry
Shuster: Marcellus Shale Could Revitalize Fayette
Southpointe II Growth Fueled By Marcellus Shale
Editorial: Communities Deserve A Say In Drilling Rules
PA Eyes Tax Deals To Lure Shell's Ethane Cracker
GOP Auditor General Contender Drills Down On Marcellus Data
Sen. Yaw Discusses Need For Stream Cleaning, Maintenance
Brodhead Watershed Assn Appoints 3 Board Members
Turzai To Introduce RCAP Reform Bill
Gasoline Reaches 5-Month High On Refinery Upsets, Shutdowns
There's Recycling Gold In Those Hills Of Trash
Residents Approach Sen. Blake With Power Line Concerns
West Penn Power: Results Of Default Service Auction
New Emergency Sirens To Be Tested At TMI
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Jan. 30 PA Environment Digest Now Available

2012-01-27T21:51:00.001-05:00

Jan. 30 PA Environment Digest now available. Click Here to print this entire Digest.

Berks County Joins 350 Groups Supporting Renewal Of Growing Greener Program

The Renew Growing Greener Coalition Thursday announced 35 counties – more than half the state – have passed resolutions calling for the renewal of the Growing Greener Environmental Stewardship Fund, Pennsylvania’s primary source of funding to help local communities protect water quality, preserve open space and farmland, and enhance parks, trails and other recreational opportunities.

Now more than 150 government entities, including 109 municipalities, representing more than seven million Pennsylvanians, have passed resolutions calling for a dedicated source of funding for the Growing Greener Environmental Stewardship Fund.

This week Berks County adopted a resolution in support of the Growing Greener initiative, marking a significant milestone in the efforts to save the critical program. In addition, BedfordCounty adopted a resolution this week.

“The Growing Greener program has made a tremendous impact in counties throughout the Commonwealth,” said Chairman of the Berks County Board of Commissioners Christian Leinbach. “In Berks County, the program has helped us enhance our heritage areas, conserve our open space and protect our water quality. We could not achieve this without Growing Greener.”

In Bedford County, Growing Greener has contributed to improvements at the Saxton Borough and East Providence wastewater treatment plants and helped mitigate acid mine drainage in Broad Top Township.

“Bedford County has effectively leveraged Growing Greener funds to achieve tangible, lasting results for our residents,” said Kirt Morris, Chairman of the Bedford County Board of Commissioners. “We cannot let this program die.”

Registration Now Open For 2012 Great American Cleanup Of PA

2012-01-27T12:58:00.002-05:00

Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful announced Friday registration is now open for the 2012 Great American Cleanup of PA. Event coordinators can visit the Great American Cleanup of PA webpage to register their event.

This annual event is held in conjunction with the Great American Cleanup of Keep America Beautiful and in partnership with support from the Department of Environmental Protection, PennDOT, and Pennsylvania Waste Industries Association.

Additional partnering businesses include the American Chemistry Council, Keystone Sanitary Landfill, Pennsylvania Beverage Association, Pennsylvania Food Merchants Association, Republic Services, Steel Recycling Institute, and Waste Management.

The 2012 Great American Cleanup of PA will begin on March 1st and end on May 31st. During this period, registered events can get free bags, gloves, and vests from PennDOT district offices.

Events consist of litter cleanups, illegal dump cleanups, beautification projects, special collections, and educational events. Events must be registered through the Great American Cleanup of PA website to get these free cleanup supplies.

Pick It Up PA Days

As part of this event, the Department of Environmental Protection and Pennsylvania Waste Industries Association are sponsoring Let’s Pick It Up PA – Everyday.

During the Pick It Up PA Days, registered event coordinators will be able to take the trash collected during their cleanup to participating landfills for free disposal. The Let’s Pick It Up PA – Everyday event will begin on April 21st and end on May 7th. The focus day will be April 21st.

All 67 counties in Pennsylvania were represented in the 2011 Great American Cleanup of PA. There were 4,222 events with 159,922 volunteers. Volunteers collected 354,267 bags of trash or 7,085,340 pounds. They cleaned 13,140 miles of roads, railroad tracks, trails, waterways, and shorelines, and 5,887 acres of parks and/or wetlands.

Additionally, volunteers planted 3,321 trees, bulbs, and plants in an effort to keep Pennsylvania beautiful.

Since the inception of this event in 2004, over 61 million pounds of litter and waste have been removed from Pennsylvania’s landscape, and tens of thousands of trees, bulbs, and flowers have been planted.

To register your event, find an event near you, or to find additional resources, visit the Great American Cleanup of PA website. Any additional questions can be answered by Michelle Dunn, Great American Cleanup of PA Program Coordinator, at 1-877-772-3673 ext. 113 or send email to: mdunn@keeppabeautiful.org.

Rep. Bud George, Democratic Chair Of House Environmental Committee, To Retire

2012-01-27T12:51:00.000-05:00

Long-time Democratic Chair of the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee Rep. Bud George (D-Clearfield) announced Friday he will retire at the end of 2012.

Rep. George was appointed Democratic Chair of the then House Conservation Committee in 1983. As Chairman, he has sponsored and authored dozens of environmental initiatives in the area of environmental protection and natural resource conservation.

As the ranking House member of a joint House-Senate Conference Committee, Rep. George was instrumental in the passage of Act 101, one of the first comprehensive solid waste management and recycling programs in the country. It was Rep. George's amendment that established the Recycling Fund, which provides monetary assistance to local governments to establish curbside recycling programs.

Other George legislative achievements include:

-- A law giving the state the authority to confiscate trucks used in the illegal transportation of toxic substances;

-- A law prohibiting "backhauling," the practice of cross-hauling foodstuffs and solid wastes in the same truck;

-- Changes in Pennsylvania Surface Coal Mining law, providing for the replacement of public/private water supplies damaged by mining, as well as a program to encourage the reclamation of abandoned mine sites;

-- Change of sewage treatment laws to allow individuals and families to build homes with proper sewage disposal systems, while at the same time protecting surface and groundwater supplies;

-- Passage of legislation assisting owners of property with underground storage tanks to clean contaminated soil and remove old tanks, as well as protect against future discharges that could do significant damage to soil and groundwater supplies; and

-- Passage of a law creating the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PennVEST).

Rep. George has also proposed legislation that would: protect citizens against frivolous (SLAPP) lawsuits filed by large corporations; initiate a bond issue to clean over 2,400 miles of contaminated streams and reclaim 280,000 acres of abandoned mines; provide a greater amount of consumer protection and information under the new Electric Deregulation Act, among many others.

In addition to his Committee Chairmanship, Rep. George also serves as a member of the Environmental Quality Board, PennVEST, the Wild Resource Conservation Board, the Joint Legislative Air and Water Pollution Control Committee, the House Democratic Policy Committee and the powerful House Rules Committee.
"In one capacity or another I've worked with him since 1983 on almost every major piece of environmental legislation going through the General Assembly," said David E. Hess, former Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection. "Whether you agreed with him or not, he was a force of nature to be reckoned with and he represented his constituents and the interests in his district as few legislators do. I wish him well in retirement and the best to his family."

Rep. George began his service in the House in 1974.
NewsClip: Rep. Camille "Bud" George To Retire At End Of Year

Center For Rural PA Still Accepting Comments On Stream Cleaning To Prevent Flooding

2012-01-27T10:30:00.002-05:00

As a follow up to a listening session on stream cleaning to prevent flooding on January 19, the Center for Rural Pennsylvania will continue to accept comments on the issue, according to Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Tioga).

Center staff was be joined by state and local elected officials from Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan and Susquehanna counties, members of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, local businesses and residents, many of whom have been affected and offered testimony regarding issues surrounding stream cleaning in the wake of recent flooding across Pennsylvania.

"We need to look into the regulatory issues to address some of these problems," Sen. Yaw said. "As the presenters testified, a method to maintain stream channels that are sensitive to local conditions is essential. And we need to let regulators know that landowners and citizens are not the enemy but rather partners."

As a result of this listening session, Sen. Yaw's office will be working directly with Secretary Michael Krancer of the state Department of Environmental Protection, as well as other state and local agencies, to address the current regulatory and permitting process. In addition, he and his staff will be working directly with the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and its membership to tackle this issue head on.

Podcast: Sen. Yaw Discusses Need For Stream Cleaning, Maintenance

“The Center for Rural Pennsylvania continually works to gather input from rural residents on how state government can partner with them to address local challenges and opportunities,” said Barry Denk, Executive Director for the Center. “The listening session in Sullivan County, called by our Chairman Senator Yaw, clearly shows this commitment to serving Pennsylvania's rural citizens and their communities.”

Testimony from the hearing and a video are available online. Comments can be submitted through Sen. Yaw's website.

DEP Inviting Comments On Noncoal Mining, Dam Safety, Waterways Permit Fees

2012-01-27T09:58:00.002-05:00

Proposals to increase fees for Dam Safety and Waterway Management Permits and permits related to noncoal mining were the subject of PA Bulletin notices on January 28.

The Environmental Quality Board published proposed increases in Dam Safety and Waterway Management Permit fees for public comment. The proposal would increase fees nearly $8 million-- dam safety ($933,495 increase) and waterway management ($7,052,390 increase).

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice it is soliciting additional public comments on a proposed rulemaking published in August, 2010 increasing noncoal mining-related permit fees. The proposal would increase fees $2,475,000 (from $25,000 to $2,500,000 annually).

DEP in December took action to withdraw proposed Drinking Water permit fee increases adopted by the Environmental Quality Board which would have generated $8.1 million (from $250,000 to $8,385,000 annually).

Other pending permit fee increases include:

-- Coal Surface Mining Permits: $350,000 (from $50,000 to $400,000 annually); and

-- Air Quality Permits: $7.8 million (from $19,570,000 to $27,408,000 annually).

PUC Invites Comments On Order Implementing New Gas Pipeline Regulatory Program

2012-01-27T09:55:00.002-05:00

The Public Utility Commission published notice of its tentative implementation order for the new Gas and Hazardous Liquids Pipelines Act for comment. Comments are due February 1.

The new law expands the Commission’s authority to enforce federal pipeline safety laws as they relate to gas and hazardous liquids pipeline equipment and facilities within the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

The Pipeline Act requires the Commission to develop and maintain a registry of pipeline operators within Pennsylvania.

The Commission will recover the costs of this program by assessments on pipeline operators based on the total intrastate regulated transmission, regulated distribution and regulated onshore gathering pipeline miles in operation for the transportation of gas and hazardous liquids in Pennsylvania during the prior calendar year.

For more information, visit the PUC's Gas and Hazardous Liquids Pipelines Act webpage.

Friday NewsClips

2012-01-27T06:45:00.006-05:00

Corman: Drilling Impact Fee Close
Cabot: EPA Investigation Of Dimock A Waste
Op-Ed: Lehigh Chamber President Weighs In On Marcellus Shale
Op-Ed: Pennsylvania's Saudi Arabia-- Marcellus Shale
Consol Energy Scales Back Its Drilling Plans
Consol To Cut Investment, Number Of Marcellus Wells
Declining Gas Prices Slow Shale Drillers
Consol Profit Rises 87 Percent On Coal Prices, Gas Sales
No Energy Industry Backing For The Word Fracking
What Makes Wet Natural Gas?
FirstEnergy Closing 6 Coal-Fired Power Plants, 1 In PA
Consol: No Miners Ill After Man's Death
Editorial: Lawmakers Must Work On Infrastructure
Montour Run Watershed Assn Plans To Curb Stream Erosion
State Gives $13 Million To Huge Somerset Wind Farm
TMI Finds Unexpected Flaws In New Steam Generators
Bethlehem Water Agency Considers Controlled Burns
Veteran Pursued Passion For Conservation, Outdoors
Sustainability Schools Teaching Non-Farmers How To Produce Food
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Thursday NewsClips

2012-01-26T06:36:00.001-05:00

9 GOP Senators Speak Out Against Local Control Of Drilling
Bills Limiting Local Drilling Rules Draw GOP Foes
Senate Bloc Concerned About Curbs To Local Drilling Rules
Local Zoning Laws Issue In Shale Fees
Op-Ed: PA Should Protect Remaining State Lands From Drilling
Driller Ends Free Water Deal For Sewickley
Op-Ed: How A Gas Boom Became A Glut
Casey Presses Sunoco, ConocoPhillips On Refinery Closings
EPA: Waste Site Owners To Pay $2.1 Million
Landscaping May Ease Flooding In Millvale
Grant For Millvale To Pay For Stormwater Efforts
DEP Approves Chrin Landfill Expansion
PUC Renews Pressure For City To Sell PGW
Tree Pittsburgh At Work On First Urban Forest Master Plan
Bicycle-Passing Bill Sent To Governor
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

PennTAP Seeking Industrial Clients To Participate In DOE's Save Energy Now Program

2012-01-25T11:49:00.002-05:00

The PA Technical Assistance Program is searching for industrial clients willing to participate in the Department of Energy’s Save Energy Now pilot program.

This program is aimed at implementing and achieving certification under the American National Standards Institute-accredited Superior Energy Performance program. A central element of Superior Energy Performance includes implementation of the recently published international energy management standard, ISO 50001.

Successful management teams will have a strong commitment to reducing the energy intensity of their business, prior experience in implementing ISO 9001 and/or 14001 standards, manufacturing energy costs that justify program implementation costs, and the resources to complete certification under the ISO 50001 energy management standard.

Participation in the pilot will result in personalized coaching and staff training, reduced energy costs, a smaller carbon footprint, and national recognition as being one of the first organizations to certify under the standard.

The Superior Energy Performance program is a product of a partnership between DOE, the U. S. Council for Energy Efficient Manufacturing, PennTAP, and the DEP Office of Pollution Prevention and Energy Assistance.

Through the Superior Energy Performance program industrial facilities have a roadmap for achieving, documenting and certifying ongoing energy efficiency improvements.

Additional program elements include American Society of Mechanical Engineers standards for assessing plant energy systems, an industrial measurement and verification protocol, and certified professionals to provide assistance completing all program elements.

In Pennsylvania, the Save Energy Now program – now renamed Better Buildings, Better Plants - offers multiple benefits for industry. PennTAP staffers provide multi-level plant energy assessment services, technical assistance, support for emerging energy-related businesses and technologies, DOE “Best Practices” workshop energy system training via the Penn State Extension, and referrals to other Commonwealth service provider resources.

More about PennTAP’s services are available online. More information about DOE’s Better Buildings, Better Plants program can be found online and the Superior Energy Performance Program website.

Interested businesses should contact Ralene Molina-Kreiser, PennTAP Senior Technical Specialist, at 814-574-0813 or send email to: rxm174@psu.edu, for an application and additional information about participating in the program.

Wednesday NewsClips

2012-01-25T06:40:00.001-05:00

Drilling Resumes In Allegheny National Forest
Oil, Gas Industry Wants Allegheny National Forest Plan Tossed
DEP Weighs Using Mine Water For Fracking
Range Resources Could Acquire South Fayette School Lease
Environmental Groups, McKeesport Settle Shale Lawsuit
NY Takes Action Against PA Driller Over Pollution
Feds: Lower Marcellus Shale Reserve, But More Production
Natural Gas Price On The Rise
Chesapeake Energy Describes Response To Low Natural Gas Prices
WV Stays Aggressive In Bid For Shell Gas Plant
Flood-Damaged Middletown Neighborhood Awaits Word On Aid
History Channel Features PSU On Farm Conservation Research
HBG Whitaker Center Starts $2 Million Energy Efficiency Project
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Nominations Now Being Accepted For 2012 Western PA Environmental Awards

2012-01-24T15:15:00.002-05:00

Nominations for the 2012 Western PA Environmental Awards will be accepted by the PA Environmental Council through March 5.

Sponsored by Dominion, this regionally acclaimed awards program recognizes and honors the outstanding achievements of organizations, businesses, schools and individuals in a wide range of environmental initiatives throughout Western Pennsylvania, and pays tribute to those that have demonstrated a commitment to environmental excellence, leadership, and accomplishment in their respective fields.

The Awards are open to any group, individual, program, company, school or organization located and working in one of the following counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Fulton, Greene, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Mercer, Somerset, Venango, Warren, Washington, and Westmoreland.

Each Western Pennsylvania Environmental Award winner will receive $5,000 cash award designated to the nonprofit organization of their choice and recognition and a full description of the winning project in the Awards Dinner program set for June 28.

The nomination form and additional information are available on PEC's Western PA Environmental Awards webpage.

(Reprinted from the January 2012 issue of PEC's Catalyst for Collaboration online newsletter.)

PA American Water Accepting 2012 Environmental Grant Applications

2012-01-24T13:45:00.002-05:00

PA American Water Company announced Tuesday applications are now being accepted for the company’s 2012 Environmental Grant Program. Applications must be postmarked by March 10.

The grant awards will be available in American Water service areas in ten states as follows: California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and West Virginia.

Established in 2005, American Water’s Environmental Grant Program offers funds for innovative, community-based environmental projects that improve, restore or protect the watersheds, surface water and/or groundwater supplies through partnerships.

“American Water is committed to ensuring water quality through testing and treatment, as well as through consumer education and community source protection programs,” said Debra Vernon, Manager of Corporate Responsibility. “We are all environmental stewards in protecting our water supplies, and this program is one way we help communities play an active role in this important effort.”

To qualify, proposed projects must:

-- Address a source water or watershed protection need in the community;

-- Be completed between May 1 and November 30, 2012;

-- Be a new or innovative program for the community, or serve as a significant expansion to an existing program;

-- Be carried out by a formal or informal partnership between two or more organizations;

-- Provide evidence of sustainability (continued existence after the American Water grant monies are utilized); and

-- Be located within one of American Water's service areas in the following states: California, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Missouri, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Tennessee and West Virginia

In 2011, a total of 35 projects throughout American Water’s service areas in eight states were awarded grants totaling more than $155,600.

Grant award recipients will be notified by April 9.

For more information, visit the Environmental Grant Program webpage.

Common Waters Fund Forest-To-Faucet Initiative Completes First Year, Grant Apps Due

2012-01-24T11:43:00.003-05:00

It’s simple: protecting forests in priority areas protects drinking water. To that end, the Common Waters Fund, a forest-to-faucet initiative facilitated by a partnership of regional stakeholders, has successfully completed its first year.

In its first three funding rounds, the Fund distributed over $575,000 to 90 private forest owners in Monroe, Pike and Wayne counties in Pennsylvania, Delaware and Sullivan counties in New York, and Sussex County in New Jersey. Together these landowners represent nearly 40,000 acres of high priority forestland.

The next round of grant applications are due February 1. The Fund accepts applications on a quarterly basis.

The Fund, which is coordinated by the Pinchot Institute for Conservation, owes its phenomenal success in part to leveraging the expertise of its local partners.

“The program itself and the application procedures are simple,” said Susan Beecher, area coordinator of the Fund. “We’re working with area conservation districts and foresters who are familiar with the local landscapes and resources. Together, we mapped priority forest areas in the Upper Delaware, identified best management practices for forest stewardship and created a funding mechanism for private forest landowners.”

The program, now in its second year, was created to direct funds into the areas of the Delaware watershed that are most important for clean water and steady stream flows. Most lands here are privately owned and threatened by development, so a key strategy is to provide incentives to landowners to keep their forests intact and healthy.

“Healthy forests act as natural filters for rainfall, and help mitigate flooding and erosion,” Beecher said.

And that’s good news for the 16.2 million people who depend on the Delaware for drinking water supplies, agriculture, food production, generation of electricity, industrial uses, recreational facilities such as ski slopes and golf courses, and recreational activities including fishing and white-water canoeing and kayaking.

These uses contribute some $25 billion annually to the local economy. The Delaware’s fresh water also keeps salt water out of the wells in downstream cities like Philadelphia, Camden, and Trenton and numerous New Jersey suburbs.

The Fund also works with regional land trusts to permanently protect forests.

“We have over a dozen conservation easement applications and are excited to provide funds to help landowners and land trusts defray the legal expenses of placing a conservation easement on their property,” said Fund director Stephanie Pendergrass.

Initial grant funding was received from the U.S. Endowment for Forestry and Communities. The Common Waters Fund is seeking additional support from foundations, corporations and organizations across the Delaware Basin, especially those whose businesses rely on clean and abundant water supplies.

Information is available online about how to apply for a grant on the Common Waters Fund or send email to: partners@commonwatersfund.org. Contact Stephanie Pendergrass at 202-797-6530 to learn more and make a direct philanthropic donation.

Tuesday NewsClips

2012-01-24T06:51:00.001-05:00

SRBC To Reconsider Water Withdrawal Permits
EPA Serves Public Interest In Dimock
Editorial: EPA's Intervention May Answer Dimock Questions
Chesapeake Scales Back Its Dry Gas Drilling Operations
Chesapeake Energy Cuts Natural Gas Drilling
Chesapeake Energy To Lower Gas Production
Emission Reports Due From Natural Gas Operations On March 1
WSCTC Eyes Grant for Gas Field Jobs Training
DOE Slashes Estimate Of Marcellus Shale Reserves
Shale Gas Reserve Estimate Plummets
Experts Question Cut In Shale Reserve Estimates
Natural Gas Production To Triple By 2035
Could Fracking Earthquakes Shake PA?
Op-Ed: Our Boutique Fuels Mess
Gasoline Prices Could Hit $4 This Year
New York Team To Build Central PA Wind Farm
DEP Will Continue To Implement PA's Clean Air Interstate Rule
$1 Million Grant Aids Flood Recovery, Workers
Bethlehem Repairs Leaky Lehigh Canal Aqueduct
Eastern Sports And Outdoors Show Kicks Off Saturday
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

DCNR Forms New Advisory Committee on Trails, Nominations Sought

2012-01-23T12:02:00.002-05:00

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is forming a new Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee to assist efforts to build a statewide network of land and water trails, DCNR Secretary Richard Allan announced Monday.

DCNR is accepting nominations for 14 appointments to the committee until Feb. 21.

"Our nationally-honored Statewide Outdoor Recreation Plan recommended we create a statewide trails committee to help implement recommendations from the plan related to a trail network as a way to facilitate outdoor recreation, provide alternative transportation routes and encourage healthy lifestyles," Allan said. "This new committee helps us in our efforts to make that plan a reality."

The committee's creation also fulfills some requirements for federal funding programs.

After a year of planning and deliberations with trail stakeholders across the state, it was determined that the Pennsylvania Recreational Trails Advisory Board, in existence since 1992, would be expanded and the name changed to the Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee.

The Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee will consist of up to 20 members appointed by DCNR. Members will represent different types of trail users, builders and advocates, and people with disabilities.

The committee's responsibilities will include advising DCNR on the use of federal trails funding in Pennsylvania, reviewing and ranking trail project applications and presenting an annual report to the secretary on the accomplishments of the preceding federal fiscal year.

Nominations are now being accepted for appointees representing the following trail-user organizations: mountain biking; snowmobiling; all-terrain vehicle riding; water trail users; people with disabilities; trail advocates; trail builders; trail planners; an educator or trainer related to trails; trail walkers and four at-large members.

Nominations must be submitted to DCNR by February 21. Appointees will serve for three consecutive years.

To obtain a nomination form, visit the DCNR Trails webpage or call 717-787-7672 or send email to: roprunty@pa.gov.

SRBC To Hold Hearing On Water Consumption, Withdrawal Requests Feb. 16

2012-01-23T11:56:00.000-05:00

The Susquehanna River Basin Commission will conduct a public hearing February 16 in Harrisburg to accept public comments on water withdrawal and consumptive use project applications scheduled for action by SRBC at its next business meeting in mid-March.

The hearing on the project applications will be held in the State Capitol, East Wing, Room 8E-B, Harrisburg, Pa., 2:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.

The list of project applications scheduled for comment and information on those applications are available on SRBC’s website. The project applications scheduled for the February 16 hearing also include those that were approved at SRBC’s December 15, 2011 hearing in Wilkes-Barre. Pa.

“The Commission has decided to reconsider its December action on those project applications because the disruptive behavior of certain individuals prevented interested persons from offering testimony at the time,” said SRBC Executive Director Paul Swartz. “We are committed to preserving the due process rights of all citizens so they can provide constructive and meaningful comments on proposed projects.”

Persons planning to present oral testimony at the public hearing are asked to notify SRBC prior to the hearing of their intent to testify and to indicate the project application(s) they plan to comment on.

The notices are to be directed to Richard Cairo, General Counsel, Susquehanna River Basin Commission, 1721 North Front Street, Harrisburg, PA, 17102, Phone: 717-238-0423, ext 306, Fax: 717-238-2436, email to: rcairo@srbc.net.

SRBC will also accept written comments on the project applications until February 27. Comments may be submitted via the Internet or mailed or faxed to Mr. Cairo.

“Conducting a public hearing on project applications one month before the Commission acts on the projects is a new procedure and represents an improvement over our past practice,” said Swartz. “This change will give the public ample opportunities for commenting and will give the commissioners more time to review and consider comments before voting on proposed projects.

That change, which makes SRBC’s process more consistent with the processes followed by other regulatory agencies, is one of many procedural changes SRBC has put into practice to enhance the public participation process.

Following are highlights of SRBC’s procedural changes:

Public Hearings and Business Meetings Regarding Project Applications and Other Actions Requiring SRBC Votes

-- Each quarter, SRBC will conduct a public hearing to receive comments on specific project applications. Persons interested in making general comments are encouraged to submit them in writing for SRBC review and consideration. The public hearings will take place about one month before SRBC’s quarterly business meeting where project applications are scheduled for action. Additional written comments also will be accepted for 10 days after the public hearing.

-- Each quarter, SRBC will conduct a business meeting to take action on project applications and other matters requiring a vote by the commissioners. These business meetings also will be streamed live via webcast. Given the ample opportunity for public comment in advance, SRBC will not accept additional comments at its business meetings on project applications or other actions scheduled for vote.

Procedures for Quarterly Public Hearings and Business Meetings

SRBC has instituted certain procedures for the agency’s public hearings and business meetings. The full set of procedures is available on SRBC’s website.

Some of those include: all persons must sign-in and show photo identification; signage, posters, banners or other display media will be permitted only in designated areas; and the press will be permitted to set up and use video and recording devices. The public will be permitted to use small, hand-held devices in a non-disruptive manner.

Swartz said, “The Commission is and will remain an open and transparent agency with a robust public participation process that allows all citizens to offer constructive and meaningful public input.”

Visit the SRBC's Natural Gas Shales webpage for more information on how the Commission regulates water withdrawals related to gas drilling.

Chesapeake Energy To Cut Dry Gas Drilling

2012-01-23T10:22:00.001-05:00

Chesapeake Energy To Cut Dry Gas Drilling
Pittsburgh Business Times
by Paul J. Gough, Web Producer
Low natural gas prices are leading to cutbacks in dry gas investment and production at Chesapeake Energy Corp., including in the Marcellus Shale.
That means that Chesapeake will halve its dry gas drilling by the second quarter, bringing to 12 the number of Marcellus Shale dry gas rigs that Chesapeake operates in the region, primarily in northeastern Pennsylvania. It wasn't immediately clear how many the company had operating now but a spokesman said Monday that Marcellus production would continue. Click Here for full story.

Monday NewsClips

2012-01-23T06:37:00.004-05:00

Farmers Listen To Property Owners Who Regret Allowing Drilling
Federal, State Agencies Still Sparring Over Shale
Earth Conservancy To Rehabilitate Land
New Bill Could Make Drivers Give Bicycles 4-Foot Berth
Families Mark Anniversary Of Knox Mine Disaster
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Sunday NewsClips

2012-01-22T06:56:00.001-05:00

DEP Has New Guidelines For Oil, Gas Drilling
Editorial: In Dimock, EPA Acts In Public Interest
Governor's Office Responds To Marcellus Bill Critics
More State Ordering Disclosure Of Fracking Chemicals
Penn State Jan. 25 Webinar: Interpreting Water Test Results
Groups Solicits Help In Restoring Glade Run Lake
Making Wastewater Potable Feasible
Middle Schoolers Compete To Produce Cities Of Future
Students Create Cities That Use Alternative Energy
Editorial: Explain The Budget Cuts
Op-Ed: We Must Invest In Mass Transit Or Watch Region Wither
Column: Save Herons From PPL For 22 Cents
Bird Counters Enjoy Nature Without Leaving Home
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Penn State Extension Jan. 25 Webinar: Interpreting Water Test Results

2012-01-22T06:51:00.002-05:00

Learn how to read a water test report. Find out about the most common pollutants and get tips for managing your water system. Get your question answered. January 25, noon to 1:00 p.m.

The first Penn State Water Resources webinar of 2012 will be presented on Wednesday, January 25 from noon to 1:00 pm. Interpreting Water Test Results, will cover the basics of understanding a water test report from a state accredited lab. Participants will learn the difference between health and aesthetic contaminants, learn about the most common pollutants found in water, and get tips on groundwater protection, well maintenance and water treatment.

The webinar will be presented by Susan Boser, a water quality educator for Penn State Extension in Beaver County. Susan has been an Extension educator for 12 years and holds a B.S. in Agriculture from WVU where she majored in Environmental Protection.

How to Participate

The live webinar will occur from noon to 1:00 p.m. and is accessible online. You can attend this webinar simply by signing in as a "guest." If you would like to be reminded of upcoming webinars please visit this website to register. Taped versions of past programs in the webinar series are available to anyone online.

Upcoming Webinars

-- February 29 - Methane Issues in Water

-- March 28 - Aquatic Invasives and Water Gardens

-- April 25 - Fisheries Management for Ponds and Lakes

A schedule of upcoming Water Resources webinars is available online.

(Reprinted from Penn State Extension Watershed Winds online newsletter.)

Saturday NewsClips

2012-01-21T06:37:00.003-05:00

DEP Will Limit Expedited Permits For Gas Drillers
DEP: Cabot-Funded Filters Can Treat Dimock Arsenic
EPA Water Deliveries Arrive In Dimock
Marcellus Industry Lobbyists Spend Millions More Than Critics
Vandals Spilled Brine At Bradford Drilling Site
Plains Twp To Buy Shale-Gas Recycling Truck
Harveys Lake Opposes Restrictions On Local Drilling Controls
Drilling Impact On Habitat, Sportsmen Discussed
GOP Hopefuls Yearn To Grow Shale Industry, Oust Casey
Report Forecasts Fracking Climb To Ebb
EQT Suspends Natural Gas Drilling In Kentucky
Deadline To Apply For Disaster Business Loans Is Feb. 20
Casey: Luzerne County Could See $16 Million In Flood Aid
Radnor Commissioners Review Stormwater Study, Cost
Casey Seeks EPA Help With Algal Blooms In Lake Erie
Senators Look To End Summer Gasoline In Western PA
Landfill Looking To Expand In Lower Saucon
Federal Funds Help Charge Westinghouse Reactor Project
Bluebird Nest Boxes Help Pennsylvanians Connect With Wildlife
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Jan. 23 PA Environment Digest Now Available

2012-01-20T19:47:00.002-05:00

January 23 PA Environment Digest now available. Click Here to print this entire Digest.

Growing Greener Coalition To Legislature: Make Marcellus Shale Bill #1 Priority

Renew Growing Greener Coalition Tuesday welcomed legislators back into session and called upon them to restore Growing Greener funding by making the passage of meaningful Marcellus Shale legislation their top legislative priority.

“Now is the time to get down to business,” said Andrew Heath, executive director of the Renew Growing Greener Coalition. “Our state and our environment can ill afford any further delays in the passage of a Marcellus Shale package that restores funding to help local communities across the state protect water quality, preserve open space and farmland, and enhance parks, trails and other recreational opportunities.”

“The Coalition is firmly united in its support for the passage of a provision that allocates 25 percent of the revenues from leases for oil and gas drilling on state forests to the Growing Greener Environmental Stewardship Fund,” Heath continued. “Any final Marcellus Shale measure must contain this provision, which is consistent with the original intent of the Oil and Gas Lease Fund Act.”

The Oil and Gas Lease Fund was established in 1955 by legislation to reinvest revenues from the extraction of nonrenewable oil and gas resources from state lands back into conservation and recreation programs benefiting all Pennsylvanians. The Oil and Gas Lease Fund Act states that the “Fund shall be exclusively used for conservation, recreation, dams, or flood control or to match any federal grants which may be used for any of the aforementioned purposes.”

Money from the fund comes from the rents and royalties from oil and gas leasing and drilling on state parks and forest lands.

“Natural gas drilling in state forests and parks is already putting at risk our scenic and recreational resources and impacting wildlife habitat,” Heath stated. “Add to that the risks to water and air quality and it becomes clear why a substantial portion of the revenue from drilling leases on state lands should be directed to the Environmental Stewardship Fund.”

At present, The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is the primary benefactor and administrator of the fund. As such, funds have been used – up until 2009 – primarily to help DCNR acquire additional state parks and forestlands and to address the infrastructure needs in these areas. More recently, the fund has also been used to supplement DCNR’s operating expenses and to help defray cuts to their operating budgets for state parks and forests.

“Revenue projections indicate that there is ample funding to support both the Growing Greener Environmental Stewardship Fund and DCNR,” Heath said. “It is not a choice of either/or. We can do both with the revenue from existing leases. The Coalition does not support the leasing of any additional state parks and forest lands.”

In addition, Heath noted that to satisfy short-term needs, the Coalition supports allocating a significant portion of an impact fee to Growing Greener and encourages the Commonwealth to restore Growing Greener tipping fees to their original purpose of funding Growing Greener projects instead of paying bond debt expenses.

Growing Greener is a bipartisan program established in 1999 under Gov. Tom Ridge and later expanded by Governors Schweiker and Rendell. Since its establishment, Growing Greener has created a legacy of success, preserving more than 107,000 acres of Pennsylvania’s family farmland, conserving more than 42,300 acres of threatened open space, adding 26,000 acres to state parks and forests, and restoring over 16,000 acres of abandoned mine lands.

Moreover, Growing Greener has contributed and leveraged billions of dollars to the Pennsylvania economy by helping to boost tourism, create jobs and generate revenue. Yet despite the program’s accomplishments, funding for Growing Greener projects and grants fell from an average of approximately $150 million per year for the last six years to $27.3 million in the current state budget, over an 80 percent reduction.

The Renew Growing Greener Coalition is the largest coalition of conservation, recreation and environmental organizations in the Commonwealth, consisting of nearly 350 organizations and government entities from across the state.

More than 140 government entities, including 33 counties, representing more than seven million Pennsylvanians, have passed resolutions calling for a dedicated source of funding for the Growing Greener Environmental Stewardship Fund.

The Renew Growing Greener Coalition is the Commonwealth’s largest coalition of conservation, recreation and environmental organizations consisting of nearly 350 organizations and government entities.

Water Resources Education Network Now Accepting 2012 Grant Applications

2012-01-20T18:17:00.002-05:00

The Water Resources Education Network, a project of the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania Citizen Education Fund, is offering funding to help launch community coalitions that will raise awareness, conduct water education projects, and promote action to protect water resources now and for future generations within Pennsylvania.

Proposals are due March 23.

WREN Projects work to help communities protect and improve our most precious natural resource, our water. To see examples of prior funded projects for creative ideas, visit WREN's Local Projects webpage. No need to re-invent the wheel.

Two separate funding tracks are offered for 2012:
Track 1: Watershed Protection Education/ Non-point Source Pollution Prevention Grants. WREN will award 10-12 grants of up to $5,000 each for community-based partnerships to conduct Watershed Protection Education projects that raise awareness and educate Pennsylvania citizens and local officials about their roles as environmental stewards to protect, improve, and remediate the watershed from the impacts of nonpoint source pollution (polluted runoff).

To encourage awareness of land use impacts on water quality, a municipality is required to be an active partner in the project.

Nonpoint source pollution includes: drainage or runoff from resource extraction, abandoned coal mines, oil or gas wells; inadequate erosion control practices during construction, urban runoff; improper agricultural practices (erosion and sedimentation, nutrient management, pesticide application); improper timber harvesting practices; improper lake management practices; failing on-lot septic systems or other abandoned waste disposal sites.

NPS also results from altered hydrology (changing the way water flows through an area) due to impervious surface area and stormwater runoff.
Track 2: Source Water Protection Education Grants. WREN will award 3 grants of up to $7,000 each to develop a county-wide or regional partnership, known as the Source Water Environmental Education Team (SWEET) that will raise awareness and conduct public education in multiple municipalities for local officials and community members about proper stewardship of source water areas and ways to prevent, manage, and reduce the risk of contamination to public drinking water supply sources.

Please be advised that Source Water Protection Education Grant Program award funding is dependent upon availability of funding support to the League of Women Voters of Pennsylvania Citizen Education Fund/WREN Project.

The SWEET Team will raise awareness about valuable public water supply areas, potential sources of contamination in local communities, recommended water protection management measures that will reduce risk of contamination in source water areas, and assist with contingency planning in the county.

While many Pennsylvanians get their drinking water from on-site private wells, the majority of consumers rely on public water supply systems. Over 2,100 community water supply systems in the Commonwealth service more than 10.2 million people. The goal is to ensure high quality drinking water today and for future generations, and keep water treatment costs down.
How To Apply
Proposals are due at the League of Women Voters of PA Harrisburg office, located at: 226 Forster Street, Harrisburg, PA 17102. Funded project activities must take place July 1, 2012 – June 30, 2013.

Questions? Please review grant guidance and application forms and then contact: Julie Kollar, WREN Project Director at 267-468-0555 or send email to: juliekwren@verizon.net.

Consider An Individual, Group Or Business Membership In Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful

2012-01-20T12:35:00.002-05:00

Now everyone who shares a vision for a clean and beautiful Pennsylvania can support award-winning programs to make that happen with a membership in Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.
Since 1990, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful has worked with hundreds of thousands of volunteers, groups and businesses across the state to pick up nearly 80 million pounds of trash from Pennsylvania's roadways, waterways, greenways, vacant lots, forestlands and other community spaces.

Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful is a state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, Inc., the nation’s largest volunteer-based community action and education organization.

Your membership to Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful will directly support these efforts.
Individual and Family memberships begin at $15 a year and nonprofit partners can express their support with a $100 annual gift.

The Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Business Council is also seeking new members who have a choice of support levels.

Click Here to get all the details of membership or contact Shannon Reiter for Business Council membership information by calling 724-836-4121 or send an email to: sreiter@keeppabeautiful.org.

DEP Accepting Comments On Oil And Gas Erosion Control Permit, Policy

2012-01-20T11:32:00.002-05:00

The Department of Environmental Protection announced Friday it has published for comment a revised version of its erosion and sediment control general permit for earth disturbance associated with oil and gas activities in the Pennsylvania Bulletin, along with four other supporting documents, including a draft permit application and a policy explaining the permit requirements.

DEP will accept comments on the documents from January 21 to March 21.

DEP revised the permit and the associated documents to incorporate recent regulatory revisions, to improve the administration of the program and to implement changes agreed to in a settlement with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, Talisman Energy USA Inc. and Ultra Resources Inc.

“As a result of this agreement, the department has met with stakeholders from industry and environmental organizations to develop a permit that provides both regulatory certainty and continued protection of the state’s waterways,” DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said.

The permit mandates protection of waterways and watersheds from sediment runoff during construction disturbing more than five acres over the life of an oil- or gas-related project.

The agency may also revoke licensed professionals’ ability to request expedited permit reviews if they routinely submit applications for coverage under the general permit that have administrative or technical problems.

DEP will no longer offer expedited review of permit applications for projects that have the potential to discharge sediment and runoff to exceptional-value or high-quality watersheds, have well pads that lie within floodplains or would take place on contaminated lands.

For permit applications that do qualify for the expedited review process, DEP will complete its review and return a decision within 14 days from the submission of a complete and accurate application. In other cases, staff will complete the review within 60 days. The agency has the right to “stop the clock” on a permit application if it has administrative or technical problems.

The draft policy provides guidance on the operators’ obligation to implement best management practices for erosion and sediment control and to restore and stabilize a well site within nine months of completing the well.

When submitting a notice of intent to construct, operators must also demonstrate that their post-construction stormwater management plans are consistent with county stormwater management requirements.

Copies Of Documents

The documents out for public review are available online. Here are links to the public notices and individual documents--

-- Draft General Permit: Click Here for a copy of the draft Permit (PA Bulletin page 442);

-- Draft Technical Guidance: Click Here for copy of draft Guidance. (formal notice)

-- Draft Related Documents: The documents available for public comment (formal notice) are listed as follows:

-- Instructions for a Notice of Intent (NOI) for Coverage Under the Erosion and Sediment Control General Permit for Earth Disturbance Associated with Oil and Gas Exploration, Production, Processing or Treatment Operations or Transmission Facilities (ESCGP-2). Document Number 5500-PM-OOGM-0005

-- NOI for Erosion and Sediment Control General Permit for Earth Disturbance Associated with Oil and Gas Exploration, Production, Processing or Treatment Operations or Transmission Facilities (ESCGP-2). Document Number 5500-PM-OOGM-0005

-- NOI Administrative Completeness Checklist for Erosion and Sediment Control General Permit for Earth Disturbance Associated with Oil and Gas Exploration, Production, Processing or Treatment Operations or Transmission Facilities (ESCGP-2). Document Number 5500-PM-OOGM-0005

Public Comments

DEP will accept comments submitted by email; no comments submitted by facsimile will be accepted. A return name and address must be included in each email transmission. Written comments should be submitted to Joseph Adams, DEP Office of Oil and Gas Management, P.O. Box 8765, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8765 or by email to: josepadams@pa.gov.

Help Wanted: Scenic Pittsburgh Communications Specialist

2012-01-20T11:31:00.002-05:00

Scenic Pittsburgh, a project of the Pennsylvania Resources Council, and the only local organization dedicated to preserving Western Pennsylvania's scenic resources, is seeking a Communications Specialist to market and promote the Scenic Pittsburgh message both online and in the traditional media. Click Here for the details.

Friday NewsClips

2012-01-20T06:44:00.003-05:00

Corbett Will Sign Drilling Emergency Response Bill
Drilling Safety Bill Headed To Corbett's Desk
EPA Announces New Testing, Fresh Water For Dimock
EPA Steps In To Test Dimock's Water Wells
EPA Finds Arsenic, Barium In Dimock Water Wells
EPA Will Test Dimock Water, Deliver To Four Homes
EPA To Deliver Water In Dimock
Op-Ed: PA's Marcellus Shale Rules Should Be Fair
Pipeline Workers Accused Of Poaching Appear In Court
Shale Drilling Contributes To Climate Change
Cornell Researchers Say Drilling Will Stir Climate Change
Natural Gas Exports To Hike Prices In U.S. Agency Says
OSHA Fines Coal Bed Methane Driller For Dangerous Job Site
PPL: $30 Million For Conservation If Power Line Approved
Utilities Propose Land Swap For Power Line
Western PA's Summer Blend Gasoline Supply Iffy
Casey: PA Will Receive Over $44 Million In LIHEAP Assistance
Schuylkill County Gives Out Watershed Grants
Students Collaborate With Lancaster Clean Water Consortium
Flooded Families Seek Assistance
Illegal Dumpsite Largest On Earth Conservancy Land
Groups Ask Cumberland To Spend More On Farmland Preservation
Presque Isle To Get $3 Million For Sand
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Senators Unveil Bill To Make Gasoline Cheaper In Western PA By Changing Fuel Regs

2012-01-19T12:50:00.003-05:00

Sen. Elder Vogel (R-Butler) and Sen. Tim Solobay (D-Washington) Thursday announced legislation-- Senate Bill 1386-- designed to make gasoline cheaper for western Pennsylvanians.

Specifically, the legislation would remove a costly and burdensome regulation requiring a special “boutique” blend of gasoline from being sold in the seven county Pittsburgh-area of Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Washington and Westmoreland counties during the summer months.

This “summer gas” is routinely more expensive than gasoline sold in the rest of Pennsylvania and also in neighboring Ohio and West Virginia.

Since 1999, the Department of Environmental Protection and the United States Environmental Protection Agency, through Pennsylvania’s State Implementation Plan (SIP), have required that gasoline sold between June 1st and September 15th must have a Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) of 7.8 psi. Regular gasoline has an RVP of 9.0.

Further, in 2007 a new federal rule required that all gasoline must contain ethanol, which acts to raise the RVP of gasoline, making it counterproductive to the RVP mandate intended to reduce Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s).

All of this combines to make the seven county Pittsburgh-area a more expensive place to purchase gasoline and susceptible to volatile price swings even as a result of minor supply interruptions.

According to a study performed by Kevin J. Lindemer LLC, the already higher gasoline prices in Western Pennsylvania could become dramatically higher as a result of the potential closing of three refineries in the Philadelphia area.

“Our legislation is a commonsense, bipartisan proposal that would finally end an unfair and costly regulation on the people of western Pennsylvania,” Sen. Vogel said. “This regulation is nothing more than a hidden tax, not only at the pump but also in the goods and services we use.”

“With the shutdown of the refineries in southeast Pennsylvania, consumers and small businesses will be placed in a bind this summer with much higher costs and likely gas shortages in western Pennsylvania,” Sen. Solobay said. “It’s time we eliminate this costly summer gas requirement.”

In addition, the legislation will allow for the termination of another regulation requiring gas stations in the same seven county region in Pittsburgh, as well as the five county region of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Montgomery and Philadelphia, to install Stage II vapor recovery systems on fuel pumps.

These pumps prevent the release of gasoline vapors when in use, but the law contains a specific provision to eliminate the requirement if onboard refueling emissions controls in vehicles became widespread.

Since 2000, all passenger cars and light trucks have been required to be manufactured to include onboard refueling emissions controls. These controls work by stopping gasoline vapors from coming back out the fill pipe by circulating the vapors back into the fuel tank.

Recently, a study by the California Air Resources Board found having both systems in place causes a significant reduction in the ability to capture fuel vapors over the effectiveness of either system alone.

Stage II systems are maintenance intensive and cost service station owners thousands of dollars annually to maintain. In addition, service stations now in the process of modernizing or building new facilities are faced with the prospect of installing Stage II systems that may be declared unnecessary in just a few months.

This is a heavy financial burden that is ultimately paid for by higher prices at the pump. The legislation would remove this now redundant and environmentally counterproductive requirement and reduce the financial burden on thousands of motorists and small businesses in southwestern Pennsylvania.

Senate Bill 1386 was introduced with 40 cosponsors.

Thursday NewsClips

2012-01-19T06:42:00.005-05:00

Capitolwire: Impact Fee Deal Taking Shape
Marcellus Shale Well Safety Bill Heads To Governor
Latrobe Authority In Natural Gas Discussions
UGI Protests Upstart In Susquehanna
Two Watersheds Discuss White Deer Golf Course Pilot Project
U.S. Sen. Casey Announces $13.75 Million In Conservation Flood Aid
PUC Talks About Utility Planning For Emergencies
Construction Junction Reaps Treasure From Downtown Buildings
Cleanup Of Berkley Products Site Set In Lancaster
Wild Resource Conservation Fund Program Cut Under Corbett
Corbett Administration Slashes Wild Resource Research Funding
Editorial: Corbett Can't See The Forest For The Gas
Lancaster Sets $4.13 Million For Farmland Preservation
Fish & Boat Commission Holds 100th Business Meeting
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Youth Wildlife Leadership Academy Accepting Applications

2012-01-18T19:42:00.001-05:00

The Wildlife Leadership Academy is now accepting applications from youth ages 14-17 from Pennsylvania for this year round program that focuses on wildlife conservation and leadership development.

The mission of the Academy is to empower youth to become ambassadors for wildlife conservation in order to ensure a sustained wildlife legacy for future generations.

The Academy begins with an intensive, week-long field school experience that focuses on a fish or wildlife species as a springboard for exploring biology, habitat, and conservation issues. Youth also develop leadership skills by engaging in team-building activities, educational presentations, and mock “town hall” meetings.

Two field schools are available for youth to choose from: Pennsylvania Bucktails, which focuses on white-tailed deer, and Pennsylvania Brookies which focuses on brook trout and coldwater fisheries.

Prepared with the knowledge and the skills from the field school, students return to their home communities to complete conservation outreach that focuses on environmental education, community service, media engagement, and/or participation in the arts.

Watch an online video about the program.

Student Brook Martin of York County describes his participation in the program as “life changing.”

He shared how his time with the program affected him. “At the field school, I was able to reach my full potential and find a career path that I feel will be very rewarding. It was an experience that I will cherish and remember the rest of my life,” he said.

A High Quality Experience

Led by the Pennsylvania Institute for Conservation Education, the Wildlife Leadership Academy is a cooperative initiative and brings the experts to the students. Participants are taught by and interact with conservation professionals daily. These professionals represent agencies and leading organizations and universities from across the state.

Instructor and professional ecologist Lisa Smith commended the program.

“The high caliber and sheer number of conservation professionals who are involved as instructors in this program are beyond impressive, but more than that is the commitment of time, energy and passion that each of these instructors gives to the students,” Smith said.

Pennsylvania Brookies is a new addition to the Academy and will bring a fresh opportunity for youth to engage with fisheries experts, including those from Trout Unlimited. Rebecca Holler, Education Coordinator for Trout Unlimited Eastern Abandoned Mine Program, said Brookies will teach the youth a valuable lesson about how ecosystems function.

“Coldwater fisheries are the backbone of our environment. They provide the water source for most other ecosystems. Learning about them and what brook trout need teaches about the interconnectedness of life.”

Youth Bring Home These Lessons

Students return to their community to share what they have learned. They also keep a record of their conservation outreach efforts. Top outreach achievements qualify students for educational field trips, opportunities to return to field school tuition-free as mentors, and college scholarships.

Molly Diefenbach of Centre County, a student at Pennsylvania Drummers, said the feeling she got from doing her outreach was not what she expected.

“I was surprised by how accomplished and proud I felt after completing each outreach activity – whether it was speaking to a crowd of 200 or finishing up another entry in my nature journal alone in the woods," she said.

Molly gave an educational presentation to the Conservation Officers of Pennsylvania Association and also wrote an article for their magazine, The Greenline. Bernie Schmader, a member of COPA, was impressed by Molly.

“Her article and oral report reassures our members and others that there are intelligent, interested, dedicated and understanding young people who are preparing to step up and carry on in our efforts to promote and safeguard Pennsylvania’s precious fish, wildlife and other natural resources.”

Academy youth have taken the program’s mission to heart. To date, Academy graduates have conducted 522 conservation education, communication, and service projects; given more than 2,000 hours of work towards these efforts; and engaged over 10,000 Pennsylvania citizens across 44 counties in the state.

Academy Director Michele Kittell said the participants are “the next generation to speak for wildlife conservation."

"We hope the leadership of Academy youth in their home communities will inspire others to care more and therefore act more on behalf of the environment.” she said.

How To Apply

Applications for the 2012 field schools can be download from the Wildlife Leadership Academy webpage. Application deadline is April 1.

PA Bucktails will be held at Stone Valley Recreation Area in Huntingdon County June 19-23. PA Brookies will be held at Sieg Conference Center in Clinton County July 10-14.

Expert instructors at the field school include representatives from Audubon PA, Kutztown University, Game Commission, Pennsylvania State University, Trout Unlimited, Quality Deer Management Association, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and many more.

For more information, contact Academy Director, Michele Kittell by sending email to: mkittell@piceweb.org or call 570-245-8518.

DEP Invites Public To 2 Discussions On Using Mine Drainage In Fracking Operations

2012-01-18T12:45:00.002-05:00

The Department of Environmental Protection is inviting the public to participate in one of two upcoming public sessions to gather input and ideas about the use of acid mine drainage in hydraulic fracturing operations.

In November, DEP announced an interim procedure for how the department would process requests by the oil and gas industry to use water impacted by active or abandoned mines for the development of gas wells particularly in the Marcellus Shale regions of the state.

The process was outlined in a draft “white paper” that was developed by a team of DEP staff. The department is following the process outlined in the draft white paper to guide staff in granting approvals for the use of AMD in fracking.

Following the public input sessions, DEP will update the process, and publish a final “white paper” in the spring.

The first public session will be held at 9 a.m., January 24 in the Second Floor Auditorium of the Rachel Carson State Office Building, 400 Market St., Harrisburg.

A second session will be held at 9 a.m. January 25 and be conducted via a webinar for those who can’t make the first session in person. To register for the January 25 session, visit the online registration webpage.

DEP Deputy Secretary for Water Management Kelly Heffner and John Stefanko, Deputy Secretary for Active and Abandoned Mine Operations will review the process and lead the discussion to gather your input.
A copy of the white paper is available online.

PA Trout Unlimited Hosts 10th Keystone Coldwater Conference Feb. 24-25

2012-01-18T08:44:00.002-05:00

PA Council of Trout Unlimited will be hosting the 10th Keystone Coldwater Conference February 24-25 at the Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel in State College.

This year’s Conference will be titled “Responsible Land Use: Protecting Habitat and Native Species” focusing on issues and solutions to protecting our coldwater resources. The conference will feature presentations on stormwater management, buffer maintenance, pervious pavements, development, aquatic invasive species, and land use protection.

The conference is designed for grassroots members from organizations such as; Trout Unlimited chapters, watershed organizations, sportsmen’s groups, along with environmental professionals across the state to come together to share new ideas and concepts dealing with protecting our coldwater resource.

The conference will begin on Friday evening with a social reception. This will be a great opportunity to network with other individuals interested in protecting our resource and visit with exhibitors and poster presenters.

Saturday will begin with two keynote speakers; Dr. Steve Williams, President of the Wildlife Management Institute and Scott Stranko, Conservation biologist for Maryland Department of Natural Resources. Twelve breakout sessions will round off the morning and afternoon, with topics related to protecting habitat and native species.

Sponsors of the conference include: PA Council of Trout Unlimited, Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds, Fish and Boat Commission, PA Environment Digest: Crisci Associates, Donald & Sylvia Robinson Family Foundation, Citizens for Pennsylvania's Future, Pennsylvania Center for Dirt and Gravel Roads, Trout Unlimited, Western Pennsylvania Conservancy, Chesapeake Bay Foundation and the Whetzel Family Charitable Trust.

Early registration fee, which covers Friday evening and all day Saturday, is $60.00 before January 31st, or $80.00 beginning February 1. A limited number of rooms are available at the Penn Stater for the special rate of $99.00 plus tax, per night, but only if you make your reservation by January 24. To reserve a room at this special rate, call 800-233-7505 or 814-863-5000 and use the identification number Key12b.

For more information, to register, or to sign up as an exhibitor visit the Keystone Coldwater Conference webpage.

Jan. 19 Webinar: Using Clean Water Act Funding For Source Water Protection

2012-01-18T08:42:00.002-05:00

The national Association of State Drinking Water Administrators and Ground Water Protection Council will host a webinar on using federal Clean Water Act funds for source water protection projects on January 19 from Noon to 1:30.
With Clean Water State Revolving Fund programs at the helm of source water funding efforts, the webinar’s three presentations will explain legal aspects of the programs, case examples, and coordination methods on the state level.
To register for the webinar or to learn more, visit the webinar webpage.
Provided by the League of Women Voters of PA Water Resources Education Network.

Wednesday NewsClips

2012-01-18T06:52:00.004-05:00

Speedy Action Urged On Drilling Legislation
Groups Urge Legislators To Start Over On Shale Bill
Protesters Say Drilling Bills Erode Local Control
200 Protest Gas Drilling Oversight Bills
Chorus Of Environmentalists Decry Shale Bills
Critics Challenge Gas Drilling Zoning Loss
Pastor: Christians Should Oppose Marcellus Shale Drilling
Driller Plans Fourth Gas Well Site In Benton
Compressor Station In Wyoming County Gets Conditional OK
Jan. 30 Deadline To Submit To Marcellus Gas Ideas Contest
Shell May Be Considering Beaver County For Gas Plant
Op-Ed: Corbett Coddles The Rich And Gas Companies
WV DEP: Injection Wells, Quakes Could Be Tied
Shale Drilling Affects Rest Of Energy Sector
Electricity Prices Drop As Shale Spurs Natural Gas Glut
Lancaster Power Plant A Top Greenhouse Gas Polluter
Unemployed Find Work Cleaning Up Flood Damage
Corps Of Engineers To Determine NE Levee Repairs
Delaware River Dredging Fight Moves To U.S. Court
Op-Ed: Dredging Doubts Grow Deeper
Lehigh Valley Startup Bets On Solar Dish
Cheep Trills Coming To West Vincent Township
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Growing Greener Coalition To Legislature: Make Marcellus Shale Bill #1 Priority

2012-01-17T15:57:00.000-05:00

Renew Growing Greener Coalition today welcomed legislators back into session and called upon them to restore Growing Greener funding by making the passage of meaningful Marcellus Shale legislation their top legislative priority.
“Now is the time to get down to business,” said Andrew Heath, executive director of the Renew Growing Greener Coalition. “Our state and our environment can ill afford any further delays in the passage of a Marcellus Shale package that restores funding to help local communities across the state protect water quality, preserve open space and farmland, and enhance parks, trails and other recreational opportunities.”
“The Coalition is firmly united in its support for the passage of a provision that allocates 25 percent of the revenues from leases for oil and gas drilling on state forests to the Growing Greener Environmental Stewardship Fund,” Heath continued. “Any final Marcellus Shale measure must contain this provision, which is consistent with the original intent of the Oil and Gas Lease Fund Act.”
The Oil and Gas Lease Fund was established in 1955 bylegislation to reinvest revenues from the extraction of nonrenewable oil and gas resources from state lands back into conservation and recreation programs benefiting all Pennsylvanians. The Oil and Gas Lease Fund Act states that the “Fund shall be exclusively used for conservation, recreation, dams, or flood control or to match any federal grants which may be used for any of the aforementioned purposes.”
Money from the fund comes from the rents and royalties from oil and gas leasing and drilling on state parks and forest lands.
“Natural gas drilling in state forests and parks is already putting at risk our scenic and recreational resources and impactingwildlife habitat,” Heath stated. “Add to that the risks to water and air quality and it becomes clear why a substantial portion of the revenue from drilling leases on state lands should be directed to the Environmental Stewardship Fund.”
At present, The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is the primary benefactor and administrator of the fund. As such, funds have been used – up until 2009 – primarily to help DCNR acquire additional state parks and forestlands and to address the infrastructure needs in these areas. More recently, the fund has also been used to supplement DCNR’s operating expenses and to help defray cuts to their operating budgets for state parks and forests.
“Revenue projections indicate that there is ample funding to support both the Growing Greener Environmental Stewardship Fund and DCNR,” Heath said. “It is not a choice of either/or. We can do both with the revenue from existing leases. The Coalition does not support the leasing of any additional state parks and forest lands.”
In addition, Heath noted that to satisfy short-term needs, the Coalition supports allocating a significant portion of an impact fee to Growing Greener and encourages the Commonwealth to restore Growing Greener tipping fees to their original purpose of funding Growing Greener projects instead of paying bond debt expenses.
Growing Greener is a bipartisan program established in 1999 under Governor Tom Ridge and later expanded by Governors Schweiker and Rendell. Since its establishment, Growing Greener has created a legacy of success, preserving more than 107,000 acres of Pennsylvania’s family farmland, conserving more than 42,300 acres of threatened open space, adding 26,000 acres to state parks and forests, and restoring over 16,000 acres of abandoned mine lands.
Moreover, Growing Greener has contributed and leveraged billions of dollars to the Pennsylvania economy by helping to boost tourism, create jobs and generate revenue. Yet despite the program’s accomplishments, funding for Growing Greener projects and grants fell from an average of approximately $150 million per year for the last six years to $27.3 million in the current state budget, over an 80 percent reduction.
The Renew Growing Greener Coalition is the largest coalition of conservation, recreation and environmental organizations in the Commonwealth, consisting of nearly 350 organizations and government entities from across the state.
More than 140 government entities, including 33 counties, representing more than seven million Pennsylvanians, have passed resolutions calling for a dedicated source of funding for the Growing Greener Environmental Stewardship Fund.
The Renew Growing Greener Coalition is the Commonwealth’s largest coalition of conservation, recreation and environmental organizations consisting of nearly 350 organizations and government entities.

Center For Rural PA Hosts Session On Stream Cleaning January 19

2012-01-17T11:06:00.002-05:00

The Center for Rural Pennsylvania will host a listening session on ‘Stream Cleaning’ on Thursday, January 19th from 8:30 a.m. to noon, according to Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Tioga), the Center’s Board Chairman. The session will be held at the Sullivan County Conservation District / Agricultural Center, 9219 Route 487, Dushore, PA 18614.
Center staff will be joined by state and local elected officials from Bradford, Lycoming, Sullivan and Susquehanna counties, members of the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau, local businesses and residents, many of whom have been affected and will offer testimony regarding issues surrounding stream cleaning in the wake of recent flooding across Pennsylvania.
“The listening session will allow us to hear from local officials and residents impacted by the flooding so that we can work to improve and enhance current state regulations for stream maintenance,” Sen. Yaw said. “I look forward to reviewing the testimony.”
“The Center for Rural Pennsylvania continually works to gather input from rural residents on how state government can partner with them to address local challenges and opportunities,” said Barry Denk, Executive Director for the Center. “The listening session in Sullivan County, called by our Chairman Senator Yaw, clearly shows this commitment to serving Pennsylvania's rural citizens and their communities.”
The listening session is open to the public. Because seating is limited, those attending are asked to contact Senator Yaw’s Office at 717-787-3280 or 800-443-5772. Because of time constraints, there will not be an opportunity for a public comment period. However, written testimony will be accepted by The Center. The public can also submit comments through Sen. Yaw's website.

Tuesday NewsClips

2012-01-17T06:44:00.001-05:00

Legislature To Focus On Shale Fee
Firing Of DCNR Advisory Council Head Decried
Firing Raises Questions About Drilling Oversight In PA
Editorial: Ill-Timed Firing Hurts Citizens On Drilling
PA Has 6 Wells Like Those Suspected In Ohio Quakes
Marcellus Emergency Response Bill Moving To Passage
Region Scrambles To Land Shell Chemical Plant
Bill Would Require Environmental Remediation For Businesses
Natural Gas Surplus, Weather Drive Prices Down
Winter Heating Bills Fall In Erie Area
Electric Plants Shift From Coal To Natural Gas
U.S. Shifts To Gas For Electricity Generation
Agreement On Permit Saves 700 Mining Jobs
Springfield Twp Loses Power Line Case
Solar Panels Stir Up Neighbors In Penn Township
Region's Susquehanna Watershed To Be Explored
Old Gas Wells Bring Risks Of Chemicals
Army Corps Presses For Deepening Of Delaware River Channel
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

In Memorium: Kathleen Paul, Former Director PA Center For Environmental Education

2012-01-16T06:39:00.001-05:00

Kathleen Paul, former Director of the PA Center for Environmental Education, passed away on Saturday after losing her courageous battle with cancer.
Kathleen followed Dr. Paulette Johnson as the second Director of the Center, which was created in 1996 by Gov. Tom Ridge, established in law by Act 71 of 2009 and was based at Slippery Rock University. It was closed last year as a result of state budget cuts.
Under Kathleen's leadership, the Center expanded on its mission of being a statewide clearinghouse for environmental education resources by partnering with groups all over the state to make Environmental Education relevant and valuable to students and teachers.
She expanded the use of the Center website as a conduit to provide services to over 600 environmental centers and nonprofit organizations, to distribute environmental education materials and create teacher training opportunities.
"Few people can match Kathleen's enthusiasm and passion for environmental education. It is contagious. If you meet Kathleen, you have met a friend," said Patrick Henderson, Governor's Energy Executive and former Director of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. "She has, literally, helped to educate a generation of students, and we all owe her a tremendous debt of gratitude."
"Kathleen has been a tremendous leader in the environmental education community, working tirelessly with students, teachers and legislators to take the Center to the next level," said David Hess, former Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection. "Her dedication and vision made the Center a real resource for innovative approaches to environmental education."
Prior to becoming Center Director, Kathleen served as Director of Continuing and Professional Education at Penn State’s Shenango Campus and holds a BS in Environmental Education from Michigan State University and an MA in Adult and Community Education from Indiana University of Pennsylvania.
Video Blog: Kathleen Paul Talks About the PA Center for Environmental Ed

Monday NewsClips

2012-01-16T06:31:00.007-05:00

State Offices are closed today in recognition of Martin Luther King Day
Corbett Fires DCNR Citizens Council Executive Director
New Law Paves Way For More Pipeline Inspectors
Plunging Natural Gas Prices A Boon, Bane
Editorial: Ethanol Ruse
New Barnes Building Built With Recycled, Reclaimed Materials
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Sunday NewsClips

2012-01-15T06:56:00.003-05:00

DEP Investigating Methane In Wyoming County Water Wells
Editorial: Scare Tactics, Marcellus Shale Drillers Aren't Leaving
Shale Drilling Could Provide Way to Deal With Abandoned Wells
Seismic Testing Webinar Slated For Thursday
Column: Is Chocolate Getting Into Your Well?
3 Pipelines Would Provide Natural Gas To NE PA
Bumsted: Franklin Kury, A Pol As A Pol Once Was
Column: What Would A Letter From Corbett Supporter Say?
PA Environmental Council Strikes Big With Grant
Alle-Kiski Trail, Park Projects Benefit From State Money
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Saturday NewsClips

2012-01-14T06:08:00.006-05:00

Some Dimock Families Want EPA To Provide Water
EPA Chief: More Data Needed On Dimock's Water
EPA: DEP Chief's Letter Won't Help Dimock Residents
Dimock Families Get No Quick Answer From EPA On Water
In Philly, Protesters Demand Help For Dimock
Quakes Intensify Industry Scrutiny Of Drilling Industry
Valley View Company Still Waiting For Water Extraction Decision
DEP Chief Talks Environment In Pittsburgh
Sen. Toomey Supports Farmers In Visit To Farm Show
How Farm Show Butter Sculpture Becomes Fuel
Some Rate Relief For PECO's Electric Heating Customers
Energy Saving Milestone Planned For Philly's Kelly Drive
Tissue Boxes Pulled For Fear Of Radioactive Contamination
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

Jan. 16 PA Environment Digest Now Available

2012-01-13T20:38:00.002-05:00

Jan. 16 PA Environment Digest now available. Click Here to print entire Digest.

Stonycreek River Voted Pennsylvania's 2012 River of the Year

The Stonycreek River, flowing through Cambria and Somerset counties, has been voted Pennsylvania's River of the Year for 2012.

For the second year, a public, online vote selected the winning river from among four nominees. Stonycreek River received 2,777 votes among the more than 8,300 ballots cast. The other finalists were the Kiskiminetas, Middle Monongahela and Upper Juniata rivers.

           "The Stonycreek has it all -- near-wilderness, pristine trout waters; nationally acclaimed whitewater adventure; and a watershed steeped in natural and historical resources," said Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Richard Allan. "Our newest River of the Year has rebounded from abandoned mine drainage threats of the past to unlimited recreational potential of the future.
           "Once again the River of the Year designation raises awareness of the river and its conservation needs, while the public voting format continues to generate local enthusiasm for conservation and recognition of the importance of our waterways."
           DCNR and the PA Organization for Watersheds and Rivers administer the River of the Year program. Local organizations submit nominations.

Reminder: DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grant Round Open, Workshops Set

2012-01-13T09:16:00.002-05:00

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources this week opened the 2012 application period for the Community Conservation Partnerships Program Grants administered by the Bureau of Recreation and Conservation. (formal notice)

The primary open application period officially began on January 11 and will end at 4 p.m. on April 4. Depending on the funding source, eligible applicants include Commonwealth municipalities and appropriate nonprofit organizations.

Grant assistance from the Department helps communities in this Commonwealth and organizations plan, acquire and develop recreation, park and trail facilities and conserve open space. The Bureau administers the C2P2 Program which combines several State and Federal funding sources into one grant program.

In 2012, the Department Grant Program will focus on making grant awards that enhance this Commonwealth's recreation and conservation infrastructure.

Specific priorities for grant proposals include: the rehabilitation of existing park and recreation facilities, particularly through the incorporation of green principles; trail projects that close gaps in major Statewide greenways and regionally significant trails; implementation of Rivers Conservation Plans including enhancing water trails and improving public river access; planning to help park and recreation facilities become greener; land conservation for critical habitat, key connectors, expansion of existing park and recreation areas and the establishment of new community parks; and projects identified by regional partnerships including Conservation Landscape Initiatives, Heritage Areas and Statewide significant greenways.

For more information on many of these priorities visit the PA Outdoor Recreation Plan webpage.

Grant Writing Workshops

During February and March, free grants workshops are scheduled at the following locations throughout this Commonwealth, from 9:30 a.m. until 12:30 p.m., focusing on the Department's greening emphasis, how to develop a competitive and ready to go project and changes to the 2012 C2P2 Grants Program:

-- February 21—PA State Association of Township Supervisors Building, Enola;

-- February 22—Montgomery County Public Safety Training Campus, Conshohocken;

-- February 28—Franklin Park Borough, Blueberry Hill Park Activity Center, Franklin Park;

-- February 29—Clarion University, James Gemmell Student Complex, Clarion;

-- March 1—Bucks County Conference and Visitor Bureau, Bensalem;

-- March 6—Department of Environmental Protection, Moshannon District Mining Office, Philipsburg; and

-- March 8—Luzerne County Community College, Education Conference Center, Nanticoke

To register for these workshops, go to the DCNR Calendar of Events webpage. In the event of inclement weather, contact the Pennsylvania Recreation and Park Society at 814-234-4272, and/or check the workshop status on the Department's Calendar or the PRPS website.

March 23 Webinar

If a workshop is cancelled due to inclement weather, a webinar on the C2P2 Grants Program will be held on March 23.

Persons with a disability who wish to submit an application and require assistance should contact Darrel Siesholtz at (717) 787-7672 to discuss how the Department may best accommodate their needs. Voice/TTY users should call (800) 654-5984.

Click Here for guidelines and procedures for applying for a Community Conservation Partnership Grant. Click Here to start your grant application. (Only online applications will be accepted.)

Friday NewsClips

2012-01-13T06:35:00.001-05:00

Lawmakers Seek Consensus On Marcellus Shale Fees
Corbett On Re-Election, Marcellus Shale Gas Fee Negotiations
Dimock Families Ask EPA Chief To Send Water
Dallas OKs Gas Metering Station
EPA: NY Should May Gas Wells, Set Radiation Limits
Proposed Ethylene Cracker Has States Seeing Stars
Natural Gas Futures At 2-Year Low
Derry Twp. Launches $7 Million Stormwater Control Project
Westmoreland Water Agency $1 Million Short
DEP, State Will Fill Gap In Duryea Flood Wall
WV Board Pushes Mine Reclamation Coal Tax Increase
PUC On Electric Utilities Sharing Customer Information
WCCC, FirstEnergy Team Up On Linemen Training
Refinery Closures Increase Chance Of Fuel Shortages, Higher Prices
Penn State Turns Canola Seed Into Fuel
PA Landowners Help Project Elk Habitat
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

New Study Says Rule Requiring Special Gasoline, Refinery Closures Could Greatly Increase Chances Of Shortages, Higher Prices In Southwest Pennsylvania

2012-01-12T12:43:00.002-05:00

The closing of three refineries in Southeast Pennsylvania and a rule requiring special gasoline in the Pittsburgh region during the summer are creating conditions which could result in much higher prices for gasoline in Western Pennsylvania and the potential for fuel shortages, according to a forthcoming study commissioned by the Pennsylvania Petroleum Marketers and Convenience Store Association (PPMCSA).

"The U.S. Department of Energy has already reported the closing of three refineries in Eastern Pennsylvania will result in spot shortages of gasoline and price increases of up to 5 cents a gallon," said Don Bowers, Motor Fuel Chair, PPMCSA. "What has not been reported until now is the impact those closures will have on Western Pennsylvania because of its special summer gasoline requirement."

In 1999 the Department of Environmental Protection adopted a regulation requiring a unique blend of gasoline be sold in Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Washington and Westmoreland counties from May 1 to September 15 with a Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) of 7.8 pounds per square inch. Regular gasoline has an RVP of 9.0 pounds per square inch.

Complicating the picture even more is another federal rule adopted in the mid-2000's requiring the blending of ethanol into gasoline which increases the Reid Vapor Pressure of gasoline, exactly opposite of what the lower RVP rule in Pittsburgh is trying to achieve.

"The state regulation makes the Pittsburgh Region a virtual island in terms of supplying it with gasoline. You need to go over 300 miles away from Pittsburgh to find another area with a similar gasoline requirement," said Bowers. "As we saw last spring, service stations ran out of gasoline and the price of complying fuel increased dramatically. The outlook for this spring is even more troubling."

"If the supply of 7.8 RVP gasoline was completely disrupted, it would take over 200 transports daily traveling over great distances to keep the area supplied," said Bowers.

The study, conducted by Kevin J. Lindemer LLC, examined the impact of the potential closure of the three refineries in Southeast Pennsylvania, which were supplying low Reid Vapor Pressure to the Pittsburgh Region, on top of already tight supplies of complying gasoline. This could result in significant gasoline price increases over and above the cost of gasoline.

Historically, in previous summers, these increases have been as much as 10 cents per gallon, and at times more, over the cost of fuel just across the border in Ohio and West Virginia.

"Without those refineries, Western Pennsylvania is literally at the end of what is a much longer pipeline to get the gasoline we need," said Bowers. "Supplies will now have to come from the Gulf Coast, foreign imports or through pipelines whose capacity to move product is already over subscribed."

The study notes, "The quality of gasoline required in the seven-county Pittsburgh area is unique. This market is only 3 percent of the mid-Atlantic and New England gasoline market.

"Pittsburgh’s gasoline specification reduces the efficiency of the pipeline and distribution system which can result in an increased susceptibility to supply disruptions which lead to higher prices.

"Falling regional refinery capacity in the east coast could lengthen the supply chain for the Pittsburgh specification gasoline with potential additional effects: the significance or importance to the Pittsburgh specification will be less important for refiners much more distant than it is for east coast refiners that produced it; and a longer supply chain increases the risk of supply disruption that could have a disproportionate impact on non-fungible refined products."

"A shift to a more widely used grade of gasoline will improve supply reliability," the study added.

"The 7.8 RVP rule means gasoline suppliers must make a more specialized gasoline blend just for the Pittsburgh region," said Don Bowers. "If we cannot get some relief or a waiver of some sort from these requirements, Western Pennsylvania will be at the end of a very long pipeline with only a trickle of complying gasoline."

Thursday NewsClips

2012-01-12T06:41:00.003-05:00

EPA Responds To DEP Letter On Dimock
Activists Plan To Confront EPA Chief Over Dimock's Water
Dimock Supporters To Take Water Plea To EPA Chief
Editorial: Rudimentary Regulation, Dimock Water
Column: People's Party Links Polls, Pols On Taxing Shale Drilling
Casey Lobbies Shell To Build Chemical Plant In PA
PVR Partners: 28.8 Mile Gas Pipeline Right Of Way Purchase
Penn Virginia Resources Proposes Shale Gas Pipeline
Natural Gas Company Sues Unity Realty Firm
South Fayette, Range Resources Appeal Zoning Board Decision
Gas Firm Wins Appeal, Won't Have To Build Fence
New York Gets 20,000 Comments On Gas Drilling Rules
WSJ: Glut Hits Natural Gas Prices
State To Check Gas Utility Workers' Training
Homer City Power Plant To Get $700 Million In Upgrades
Western PA Power Plant Getting $700 Million Pollution Upgrade
7 PA Coal Fired Power Plants Among Worst Greenhouse Emitters
Speedwell Fish Relocated In Lancaster
Rail Trail Council Signs Option For Pipeline Easement Along Trail
PEC Now Recruiting Delaware River Ambassadors
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

PA Trout Unlimited Offers Coldwater Conservation Corps Training To Monitor Drilling

2012-01-11T07:14:00.002-05:00

PA Trout Unlimited and ALLARM (Alliance for Aquatic Resource Monitoring) are offering a series of training opportunities for volunteers under the Coldwater Conservation Corps.

These trainings sessions will cover topics ranging from basic environmental concerns of gas extraction in the Marcellus Shale to hands-on water quality sampling.

If you are a coldwater fisherman and have concerns about Marcellus Shale gas drilling in your area, this day-long training will cover all aspects of gas drilling and what you, as an angler or hunter, can do to look after your favorite waters.

Educational materials, water quality sampling kits for TU chapters, and lunch will be provided at each training session. Please plan to attend and help to ensure that our fisheries are better protected.

Here's the training schedule:

-- January 14: This training will be held in Scranton at Rock Church, 530 Morgan Highway. This training is hosted by the Lackawanna Chapter of Trout Unlimited.

-- February 18: This training will be held in Mercer at Munnell Run Farm. This training is hosted by the Neshannock Chapter of Trout Unlimited.

-- March 3: This training will be held in St. Michael at the Disaster’s Edge Environmental Center. This training is hosted by the Mountain Laurel Chapter of Trout Unlimited.

-- March 10: This training will be held in Bloomsburg at the Columbia County Ag Center. This training is hosted by the Columbia County Chapter of Trout Unlimited.

-- March 31: This training will be held in Uniontown at the Knights of Columbus. This training is hosted by the Chestnut Ridge Chapter of Trout Unlimited.

Registration for all training sessions begins at 8:30 a.m. with the program starting at 9:00 a.m. and continuing until completion, usually between 2:30 and 3:30 p.m.. Coffee and light breakfast fare, along with lunch, will be provided.
If your Trout Unlimited chapter would like a presentation about Marcellus Shale for your monthly meeting, please contact Katy Dunlap to schedule it.

To register, please send email to Katy Dunlap at: kdunlap@tu.org or call 607-742-3331.

West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Symposium April 27-28, Presentations, Student Posters Invited

2012-01-11T07:13:00.002-05:00

Trout Unlimited and the West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition will host the 6th West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Symposium on April 27-28 at the Ramada Inn and Conference Center, State College.

April 27 will be filled with a variety of presentations on topics related to abandoned mine drainage cleanup efforts in the West Branch Susquehanna watershed. On April 28, training sessions will be offered for teachers who are interested in implementing AMD curriculum in their classrooms.

A field trip will also be offered to visit treatment systems in the headwaters of the West Branch Susquehanna River, including the recently completed Lancashire #15 active treatment facility.

Call For Presentations

Do you have interesting or innovative research or a project to share related to abandoned mine drainage, mine reclamation, innovative uses for mine drainage or treatment residuals, or a related topic? Projects with a focus in the West Branch Susquehanna River basin are preferred, but not required.

Trout Unlimited and the WBSRC are seeking individuals to provide presentations on these topics on April 27. Interested persons should send a short abstract (250 word maximum) along with their name, affiliation, and contact information to Rachel Kester by sending email to: rkester@tu.org by February 10.

Student Poster Contest

TU and the WBSRC are also pleased to announce that a student poster competition will be held in conjunction with the 6th West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Symposium. Posters should present research related to abandoned mine drainage, abandoned mine reclamation, or a related topic.

Projects with a focus in the West Branch Susquehanna River basin are preferred, but not required. Registration fees for the symposium will be waived for each student entering a poster and 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place contestants will receive a monetary award.

To enter, please send an abstract (250 word maximum) along with your name, affiliation, and contact information to Dr. Jennifer Demchak by sending email to: jdemchak@mansfield.edu by February 24.

For more information, visit the Symposum webpage or call 570-748-4901 or send email to: info@wbsrc.org.

Registration For 2012 Schuylkill Watershed Congress Now Open

2012-01-11T07:12:00.002-05:00

The Delaware Riverkeeper Network and its partners will host the 2012 Schuylkill Watershed Congress on March 10 at the West Campus of Montgomery County Community College in Pottstown.

With a focus on networking across disciplines, the Watershed Congress melds science, policy and practical applications into one program. As a result, the annual Watershed Congress is a highly anticipated event for people interested in understanding, protecting and restoring their local streams.

The 2012 program features sessions on: Native Plants; Green Infrastructure; Monitoring and Evaluating in the Hopewell Big Woods; Schuylkill Watershed Geology; Dam Removal; Next Steps in American Shad Restoration; Sustainable Stormwater Management; Pennsylvania Delaware River Basin Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program; Chemical-Free Lawn Management; Constructed Wetlands for On-Lot Waste Water Treatment and more!

The 2012 Watershed Congress is made possible in part by grants from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Bureau of Recreation and Conservation's Environmental Stewardship Fund, and Pennsylvania Sea Grant.

Register by February 17 to qualify for the $40 Early Registration Fee. From February 18 to March 2, the Registration Fee is $50. After March 2, the Registration Fee increases to $60 per person.

Click Here for complete details on all sessions being offered. Register online and or download registration forms to register offline.

Wednesday NewsClips

2012-01-11T06:40:00.000-05:00

DEP Head Calls EPA Knowledge Of Dimock Rudimentary
Consol To Invest $755 Million In Natural Gas Development
Consol Sets Ambitious Capital Budget With $1.7 Billion
Toomey Calls DRBC Voting Delay Unfortunate
Op-Ed: Pennsylvania Needs Uniform Marcellus Shale Rules
CDC Wants To Track Fracking Chemicals
Gas Drilling Critics In New York Face A Divide Over Goals
Construction Begins On 70 Megawatt Wind Farm In Lycoming
States Submit Draft Chesapeake Bay Strategies To Clean Water
House Panel Considers Water Well Standards
Water Well Rules Proposed For Pennsylvania
House Bill Would Set Statewide Water Well Standards
Borough Awards Flood Damage Repair Contracts
Putting Wind Turbines Out Of Wildlife's Way
ConocoPhillips: No Decision On Demolishing Trainer Refinery
Clock Ticking On Finding Buyer For Delaware County Refinery
Ethanol Pipeline On Hold In Lancaster
Let's Talk About Birds: Bald Eagles
Click Here for PA Capitol Digest

PEC Sponsors 2012 PA Environment Ride Susquehanna To Schuylkill River May 18-20

2012-01-10T17:09:00.003-05:00

The PA Environmental Council is again sponsoring the 2012 Pennsylvania Environment Ride, an exciting three-day bike ride from the Susquehanna River to the Schuylkill River from May 18 to 20.

Starting in the Amish country of Lancaster County, nearly the entire route will be on scenic country roads and bike paths, ending in downtown Philadelphia.

On May 18 riders will leave Philadelphia on an Amtrak train for Elizabethtown. Upon arrival at Elizabethtown, they will begin a three-day return journey to Philadelphia. The route will be fully supported by a volunteer crew who will mark the route, hand out refreshments at rest stops, offer sweep services to riders who need a lift, and more.

The Pennsylvania Environment Ride supports development of bicycle trails in southeastern Pennsylvania. This vital network of trails is used extensively for commuting, recreation and sightseeing throughout the region.

Click Here to register or for more information or call 866-858-6877.

NRCS Farm Conservation Stewardship Program Sign-Ups Extended To January 27

2012-01-10T16:54:00.002-05:00

The cutoff date for farmers to apply to participate in the 2012 sign-up for the Natural Resources Conservation Service Conservation Stewardship Program has been extended to January 27. Click Here for details on the program and how to sign up.

PA American Water Kicks Off 2012 Stream Of Learning Scholarship Program

2012-01-10T13:03:00.002-05:00

PA American Water Tuesday announced applications are being accepted for its 2012 Stream of Learning Scholarship Program to provide college scholarship assistance to students who are planning to pursue careers in the water and wastewater industry.

The deadline for applications is February 29.

The program is designed to support outstanding students living in Pennsylvania American Water’s service territories who are charting a course of study in specific fields, ranging from engineering to environmental science, which are crucial to the water and wastewater business.

“Previous winners of our Stream of Learning Scholarships have been extremely bright, dedicated students who have much to offer for the future of our industry,” said Kathy L. Pape, president of Pennsylvania American Water. “Through this program, we’re looking to attract more talented young people who will share our commitment to maintaining public health, protecting the environment and promoting economic development.”

The company will award scholarships of $2,000 each to 10 students who are selected through the program’s application process. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

-- Students must currently live in one of Pennsylvania American Water’s service areas. (Students can attend college outside of the company’s service territory.)

-- Students must plan to attend a two- or four-year college or technical school.

-- Students must plan to study environmental science, environmental engineering, biology or chemistry.

Winners will be selected by a panel of judges and will receive their awards in May. Family members of Pennsylvania American Water employees are not eligible.

This month, the company is sending scholarship brochures and applications to high school guidance counselors throughout its service territory. Applications can be downloaded from the company’s website.