Pa Environment Digest Sept. 3, 2018

Issue #740 Harrisburg, PA Sept.
3, 2018
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Northeast Environmental Partners Announce Winners Of 2018 Environmental Leadership

Awards
The Northeast Environmental Partners Monday

announced the winners of their 2018 Environmental
Leadership Awards, the Emerging Environmental
Leader Award and the Thomas P. Shelburne Award.
The winners will be recognized at a special awards
dinner on October 25 in Wilkes-Barre.
Environmental Leadership Awards
This year's winner of the Environmental Leadership
Awards are-
-- Don Baylor, Monroe County, for his leading role in various conservation efforts throughout
Monroe County.
Mr. Baylor partnered with numerous organizations to protect the streams of Monroe
County and in turn those of the Delaware River Watershed. He collected biological data,
conducted studies for environmental projects, acted as a liaison and facilitator between private
groups, environmental organizations and government entities.
His service to numerous nonprofit organizations has led to collaboration among many
groups allowing for cross pollination of environmental efforts and greater successes than any of
these groups could have achieved individually.
--Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor, Northampton County, for their ability to
form strong partnerships with local entities to not only complete the 165-mile D&L Trail, but
also to create a regional network of interconnected multi-use trails in the Lehigh Valley.
Their ability to form and maintain unique partnerships is what allows for increased
support for complicated projects.
The D&L has built relationships with organizations in 5 counties and over 50
municipalities to connect the D&L Trail and preserve the heritage of the region. They are a
leader in conservation, recreation, and historic preservation in Northeast Pennsylvania.
-- Leggett and Platt, Incorporated – Branch 0383 Luzerne County, for the development of an
environmental management system to implement environmental sustainability practices,
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encourage employee involvement, and establish partnerships with the community to achieve
their sustainability goals.
Instead of simply meeting industry-specific environmental standards, they go well above
and beyond to significantly improve resource management and lesson their impact on the
environment.
The success of this program is attributed to the many partnerships the branch has and
continues to develop with employees, other Leggett & Platt branches, suppliers, government
agencies, and the community.
-- Patriots Cove, Wyoming County, is a wild native brook trout sanctuary specifically designed
to provide optimal habitat features to restore, preserve, and protect a threatened fish species.
Patriots Cove partnered with the Wyoming County Conservation District and local
volunteers to install log structures for trout habitat, remove log jams and trash in the waterways,
and conduct water quality sampling.
More importantly, Patriots Cove is a place for veterans and first responders injured in the
line of duty to fish and reconnect with nature.
Emerging Environmental Leader Award
The Emerging Environmental Leader Award will be presented to Dinah DiMeolo,
Wyoming County, for demonstrating leadership, initiative, and dedication to protecting and
promoting a healthy environment.
Ms. DiMeolo is currently a student at the Tunkhannock Area School District and is an
avid hunter and outdoors person who has actively sought out both real world and academic
experiences that support her passion for the environment.
She has not only pursued academic opportunities to learn more about wildlife and
wildlife management but has volunteered and partnered with the USDA, Game Commission,
hunters, teachers, other youth, and biologists to study wildlife and improve their habitat in
northeastern Pennsylvania.
Ms. DiMeolo has volunteered and learned from many different organizations to pursue
her career goals in wildlife management and conservation.
Thomas P. Shelburne Award
The 24th Annual Thomas P. Shelburne Environmental Leadership Award will be
presented to Craig Todd, Monroe County. Mr. Todd is being honored for his more than 35 years
of dedication and commitment to the environment.
Mr. Todd has spent his entire career working toward protecting the natural resources of
Monroe County and northeastern Pennsylvania. His work ethic and drive allowed the Monroe
County Conservation District to cooperate with numerous local and state agencies as well as the
business community.
Throughout his tenure he partnered with organizations to work on protecting the local
environment while utilizing smart growth initiatives.
Mr. Todd has never wavered in his commitment to soil and water conservation protection
while working hand-in-hand with land preservation organizations and government agencies to
make the system work better for everyone.
Mr. Todd understood that a clean environment would not only benefit the fauna and flora
of the region but also the homeowners and businesses that call Monroe County home. His work
while at the Conservation District has served as a model for other Conservation Districts within
the state as well as for state and federal conservation partners.
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He has been instrumental in preserving the sensitive resources in Monroe County while
advocating for economic growth in compliance with environmental regulations.
Mr. Todd initiated conservation partnerships, worked cooperatively with conservation
partners at all levels, and was instrumental in protecting the resources of Monroe County, the
Delaware River Basin, and the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
He led projects and initiatives that changed the way conservation practices are carried out
on all levels.
Under his tenure he worked locally with other agencies in Monroe County on planning,
agricultural land and open space preservation, stormwater management, water quality studies,
litter control and beautification, and worked with businesses and economic development
organizations to promote smart growth and development while maintaining a strong and
compliant resource conservation program.
The Northeast Environmental Partners include Northeastern Pennsylvania
Alliance,Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Department of Environmental
Protection, PA Environmental Council, PPL Corporation, Procter & Gamble Paper Products
Company, and Wilkes University.
For more information on the awards dinner or to receive an invitation, please contact
PEC at 570-718-6507 or visit the Northeast Environmental Partners Award Dinner webpage.
For more information on programs, initiatives and special events, visit the PA
Environmental Council website, visit the PEC Blog, follow PEC on Twitter or Like PEC on
Facebook. Visit PEC’s Audio Room for the latest podcasts. Click Here to receive regular
updates from PEC.
Related Story:
Green Building Alliance Honors 25 Western PA Green Building Projects On Sept. 20
[Posted: August 27, 2018]
NFWF Delaware River Restoration Fund Awards $1.6 Million In Watershed Grants In PA
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and The

William Penn Foundation Tuesday announced the
award of grants totaling $2.2 million to support 13
new or continuing water conservation and restoration
from the Delaware River Restoration Fund.
The grants drew $3.5 million in match from
the grantees generating a total conservation impact of
$5.7 million.
$1.6 million was awarded to support projects
in the Pennsylvania portion of the Delaware River
Watershed. The Pennsylvania projects receiving
grants include--
-- Stroud Water Research Center, Improving Soil Health and Stream Health in the Red Clay
and White Clay Creeks, $249,984: Work with 2 farmers currently operating the most
agriculture acres at the headwaters of the Red Clay and White Clay Creeks to implement best
management practices for improved water quality. Project will restore approximately 20 acres of
forested buffers and address gaps in coverage throughout the area, as well as evaluate various
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innovative soil health methods for these farmers and others in region to implement.
-- Stroud Water Research Center, Outreach and Installation of Agricultural Best
Management Practices in the Middle Schuylkill, $249,619: Provide outreach and technical
assistance to develop whole farm plans and implement best management practices. Project will
implement whole farm conservation on a minimum of eight farms, provide technical assistance
on all buffers installed, and promote the adoption of soil health and stream health measures
through farmer-to-farmer trainings. Project will additionally engage the new poultry facilities in
the area, providing an opportunity to implement conservation on existing operations.
-- Brandywine Conservancy & Museum of Art, Implementing A Whole-Farm Approach In
West Branch Brandywine Creek Watershed, $250,000: Conduct landowner education and
outreach while implementing agricultural best management practices using a whole-farm
approach in the headwater reaches of the West Branch Brandywine Creek subwatershed. Project
will achieve “attained” water quality status for currently impaired streams by reducing the
impacts of agricultural runoff and supporting long-term water quality improvements to benefit
habitat and drinking water supplies.
-- Green Valleys Assn. Of Southeastern PA, Providing Technical Assistance For Small
Agricultural Operations In The French Creek Watershed, $134,935: Provide planning,
technical and financial assistance for three small community agricultural livestock operations in
three Schuylkill Highlands focus area subwatersheds of the French Creek. Project will protect
and improve water quality in these streams by implementing best management practices to
reduce sediment, nutrient and bacterial loading while working to preserve and maintain strong
agricultural operations within the cluster.
-- Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Partnership, Restoration of Jenkintown Creek at
Conklin Recreation Center, $50,000: Remove 225 feet of concrete lining from a channelized
section Jenkintown Creek and direct flows through a constructed wetland feature to extend flow
path. Project will convert 7,500 square feet of upland area from turf to meadow, and will create a
walking trail to expand recreational use of the entire Conklin Recreation Center property.
-- Berks Nature, Installing Whole Farm Agricultural Best Management Practices In The
Middle Schuylkill, $200,000: Install whole farm agricultural best management practices
utilizing Natural Resources Conservation Service prioritized farmer contracts and engineered
designs, as well as partner investment within the focus areas of the Middle Schuylkill Cluster.
Project will follow Conservation and Nutrient Management Plans for crop production and soil
health to recycle farm nutrients, resulting in the reduction of farm nutrient impacts and in
improved surface, ground and drinking water quality.
-- PA Environmental Council, Expansion of the Smart Stormwater House Call Program for
Upstream Suburban Philadelphia, $280,000: Engage watershed organizations, private
contractors and vendors to promote and install residential best management practices such as rain
barrels, rain gardens and streamside plantings through the Upstream Suburban Philadelphia
Stream Smart Stormwater House Call Program. Project will implement various large and
small-scale restoration programs to reduce stormwater runoff and related pollutants, as well as
improve habitat.
-- American Bird Conservancy, Restoring Dynamic Forest Structure for Priority Birds in the
Delaware River Watershed, $205,492: Develop and implement a comprehensive forest
management strategy for two new Dynamic Forest Restoration Blocks in the Poconos
Cooperative Forest Management Area in northeastern Pennsylvania. Project will target long-term
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availability of diverse forest age classes to benefit the entire reproductive cycle of golden-winged
warbler, cerulean warbler and wood thrush. Project will result in improved management of 2,500
acres of Delaware State Forest and 12,471 acres of State Game Lands.
Click Here for a list of all grant awards.
In total, all the projects funded in today’s announcement will improve 4,575 acres of
forest habitat, treat polluted runoff using agricultural conservation practices on nearly 7,790
acres, prevent 11.25 million gallons of unfiltered stormwater from entering the watershed, and
restore 3 miles of streamside forest in critical headwaters.
Major funding is provided by the William Penn Foundation through the initiative. This
year, additional support was provided by the U.S. Forest Service, the U.S. Department of
Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service and the American Forest Foundation.
“The 13 projects receiving grants today will improve water quality across the Delaware
River watershed, helping restore drinking water for more than 15 million residents in four states
and conserve habitat for species including cerulean warbler, golden-winged warbler and wood
thrush,” said Jeff Trandahl, executive director and CEO of NFWF. “These grants are also central
to advancing the goals of both the Delaware River Watershed Initiative and NFWF’s Delaware
Watershed Business Plan.”
For more information, visit the Delaware River Restoration Fund webpage and the
Delaware River Watershed Initiative website.
NewsClips:
Delaware RiverKeeper Aug. 31 RiverWatch Video Report
Op-Ed: No Room For Mistakes On NY’s Upper Delaware River
Related Stories:
Photo Of PA's Neshaminy Creek Winner Of Delaware River Basin Commission Summer Photo
Contest; Fall Contest Starts
PA Coast Day, Delaware River Festival Sept. 15 In Philadelphia, Camden
Northampton County Parks & Rec Staff, Watershed Volunteers Repair Riparian Buffer At Fry’s
Run County Park Within Days Of Flash Flood
House Returns To Session Sept. 12, Now’s The Time To Become A Hellbender Defender!
How You Can Help
Want To Find A Watershed Group Near You? Try The PA Land Trust Assn. Watershed
Association Finder
Take Action:
How Good Is The Water Quality In Streams In Your Community? Take A Look, Then Act
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach,

Engagement
The PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering

Committee is scheduled to meet on September 10 and
on the tentative agenda is a discussion of the materials
its Communications and Engagement Workgroup is
preparing to educate and engage the public and
stakeholders in the process of developing the Phase III
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Watershed Implementation Plan.
There will also be an update on progress with the pilot county planning process that
started at the beginning of summer in Adams, Franklin, Lancaster and York Counties.
The pilot program is test-driving the draft county clean water toolbox designed to help
develop a county-level plan to meet specific nutrient and sediment reduction targets in these
counties.
There will also be updates on other elements of the watershed planning process.
At the last meeting, the Committee heard draft recommendations on how best to achieve
nutrient and sediment reductions from the critical Agriculture and Forestry Workgroups.
The meeting will be held in Room 105 Rachel Carson Building starting at 1:00. Click
Here to register to join the meeting by webinar. Participants also need to call in 1-650-479-3208,
PASSCODE 641 463 243.
For more information and available handouts, visit the PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Planning Steering Committee webpage.
NewsClips:
Thomas: Students Push State Recognition For “Snot Otters” (Hellbenders)
PEC Podcast: Checking In On Chesapeake Bay, 10 Million Trees Statewide Initiative
Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here to subscribe to the free Chesapeake Bay Journal
Related Stories:
Agriculture, Forestry Workgroups Present Key Recommendations To Meet PA’s Chesapeake
Bay Pollution Reduction Obligations
PA To Pilot County-Level Chesapeake Bay Clean Water Planning Process In 4 Counties This
Summer
Students Push For House Action To Designate Eastern Hellbender Official Symbol Of Clean
Water; Become A Hellbender Defender!
Renew The State's Commitment To Keeping Pennsylvania Clean, Green And Growing
Meeting The Challenge Of Keeping Pennsylvania Clean, Green And Growing
Related Stories This Week:
Reminder: Apply Now For $10 Million In REAP Farm Conservation Tax Credits
Berks Conservation District Farm Tour Oct. 5 At Deep Roots Valley Farm Mohrsville
Kelly Stagen, Pike County, Named Secretary, PA Association Of Conservation Districts
Registration Opens For Annual Watershed Specialist Meeting Oct. 9-11 In State College
PACD, DEP Chapter 102 Erosion & Sedimentation Fall Conservation District Training Sessions
How You Can Help
Association Finder
Take Action:
A group of inspiring young people on the Chesapeake Bay
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Foundation’s Student Leadership Council are working to restore Pennsylvania's waters with a
one-of-a-kind critter-- the Eastern Hellbender.
And, they are asking YOU to become a Hellbender Defender!
These salamanders rely on cold, clear, and swift-running water for survival. But roughly
19,000 miles of Keystone State rivers and streams are polluted, and hellbenders are quickly
vanishing from the region.
The students are drawing attention to the Hellbender's plight by working to designate the
salamander as Pennsylvania's official state amphibian.
After studying Hellbenders and meeting with legislators, the students wrote Senate Bill
658, which passed the State Senate in November of 2017 and has been sitting in the House ever
since.
But the job is only half done, as the Hellbender now needs support in the state House.
The Hellbender effort has gained national attention, making it onto the front page of the
Wall Street Journal, the Associated Press and as the subject of the iconic Mark Trail Sunday
comic strip.
But attention isn’t enough.
The students are asking that this vanishing animal be recognized and given an
opportunity to rebound. The students and the hellbender deserve an answer.
As advocates for the hellbender’s survival, these students are learning how legislation is
created and how Pennsylvania’s political process works—they know they can play a role in
shaping their own futures and restoring the health of their local rivers and streams.
These young leaders have done their due diligence to highlight the critter’s place in the
continued fight for clean water.
Click Here to urge your representative-- before the House reconvenes on September 12--
to support the hellbender bill, Senate Bill 658 (Yaw-R-Lycoming)!
Use For Profile Picture Or Wallpaper
Show your support by using the Hellbender Defender image as your Profile Photo and
repost on your social media.
If you want a Hellbender Defender press-on tattoo like the image above, email your
address to: PaEnviroDigest@gmail.com. PA Environment Digest will send them out as long as
our supply of 100 lasts. (We will immediately discard your address. We have no need for it.)
Hellbender Crowd-Funding Initiative
The Clean Water Institute of Lycoming College now has a crowd-funding initiative
underway to restore Eastern Hellbender populations in Pennsylvania and New York over the
next three years. Click Here to learn more or to donate.
For more on Chesapeake Bay-related issues in Pennsylvania, visit the Chesapeake Bay
Foundation-PA webpage. Click Here to sign up for Pennsylvania updates (bottom of left
column). Click Here to support their work.
NewsClip:
Related Stories:
Eastern Hellbender STILL Waits For House Action To Name It Official State Symbol Of Clean
Water
Crowd-Funding Initiative: Hellbender Conservation Campaign; House Action Uncertain To
Designate Hellbender PA’s Symbol Of Clean Water
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How You Can Help
Association Finder
Take Action:
Green Building Alliance based in Pittsburgh is

celebrating 25 years of green buildings and
sustainable communities throughout Western
Pennsylvania by honoring 25 projects that have
significantly advanced the region’s sustainability
movement.
GBA will feature the awardees at is
upcoming Emerald Evening Gala on September 20
at the Carnegie Science Center’s PointView Hall in
Pittsburgh.
GBA selected awardees to reflect the
region’s verified innovations in green buildings
across diverse sectors-- from schools to hospitals to corporate offices and even entire
neighborhoods.
The 25 buildings receiving recognition are--
-- A.W. Beattie Career Center
-- Ann Jones Gerace “CCI” Center
-- Arconic Corporate Center
-- Bakery Square, Nabisco Building
-- Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh Branches
-- Carriage House Children’s Center / Wightman School
-- Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC
-- Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh
-- David L. Lawrence Convention Center
-- Erie Art Museum
-- Frick Environmental Center
-- Giant Eagle Market District Shadyside
-- Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank
-- Heinz Family and Heinz Family Foundation Offices
-- Larimer Neighborhood
-- Laurel Highlands Falls Area Visitor Center at Ohiopyle State Park
-- Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens
-- The Residential Revival at Indiana University of Pennsylvania
-- The Robert L. Preger Intelligent Workplace at Carnegie Mellon University
-- Sota Construction Corporate Offices
-- Thelma Lovette YMCA
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-- Tower at PNC Plaza
-- U.S. Steel Tower
-- University of Pittsburgh’s McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine
-- Uptown Lofts on Fifth
Over the past 25 years, the green building movement in Western Pennsylvania has
certified-- 370 LEED projects, 4 Passive House structures, and 2 Living Buildings; earned 6 AIA
COTE Top 10 Award Winners; and committed more than 500 buildings and 87 million square
feet to the Pittsburgh 2030 District.
In fact, the city of Pittsburgh is 19th in LEED-certified buildings per capita and the most
buildings committed to conservation in a North American city.
Click Here to read more about Pittsburgh’s green building history.
For information on the awards dinner on September 20, visit the Emerald Evening Gala
webpage.
For more information on programs, initiatives and other upcoming events, visit the Green
Building Alliance website. Click Here to sign up for regular updates from the Alliance, Like
them on Facebook, Follow them on Twitter and visit their YouTube Channel. Click Here to
support their work.
To learn more about green innovation in the Pittsburgh Region, visit the Pittsburgh Green
Story website.
NewsClips:
Bloomfield Company Could Save City Of Pittsburgh $6.3M In Energy Costs
2 Roads Diverging: PA Lawmakers Rethink Their Renewables Mandate
Philadelphia Sets Path To Reduce GHG Emissions 80% By 2050
Pollinator Habitats: The Bees’ Knees Of Rural Solar Development
Related Stories:
Sustainable Pittsburgh Hosting Healthy Products, Responsible Waste Management, Water
Systems Workshops In Sept.
Northeast Environmental Partners Announce Winners Of 2018 Environmental Leadership
Awards
DEP: Conventional Oil & Gas Well Violations More Than Triple Between 2015-2017
The 2017 Oil and Gas Annual Report released

Friday by the Department of Environmental
Protection shows the number of conventional oil
and gas well violations more than tripled between
2015 and 2017 from 1,024 to 3,273 last year.
Of the conventional well violations in 2017, 1,803
were environmental health and safety-related
violations and 1,470 were administratively-related
violations. In 2016, of the 1,804 violations-- 870
were environmental health and safety and 960 were administrative.
The number of violations found with unconventional (shale gas) wells also increased
from 404 in 2015 to 821 in 2017.
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Of the 821 unconventional well violations in 2017, 754 were environmental health and
safety-related violations and 67 were administratively-related violations. In 2016, of the 465
violations-- 438 were environmental health and safety and 18 were administrative.
Since 2010 DEP has collected about $35.5 million in penalties as a result of
noncompliance with oil and gas regulations, including $3.5 million in 2017.
DEP reported site inspections increased 2 percent over 2016, for a total of 36,288
inspections-- 16,296 conventional well inspections, 15,243 unconventional well inspections and
4,749 administrative/well site inspections.
Through the first three years of the Wolf administration, DEP has averaged 35,483 total
inspections per year, up from an average of 26,230 in the prior four years, in keeping with the
Wolf administration’s commitment to provide consistent, fair and timely enforcement of
Pennsylvania’s environmental regulations.
Development of a tablet-based electronic tool in 2017 has greatly streamlined the process
for field and office staff and for operators and made inspection results more quickly available to
the public-- in days rather than weeks.
“As the production of natural gas in Pennsylvania reached record volume last year, DEP
continued to work hard on program developments that improved customer service to industry
and strengthened environmental protection,” said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell.
DEP issued 2,028 unconventional well permits last year, 707 more than in 2016.
An interactive map shows the locations. Operators produced 5.36 trillion cubic feet of
natural gas, about a quarter-trillion increase over 2016.
DEP issued 203 conventional oil and gas permits in 2017, 45 more than in 2016.
DEP said the agency made significant progress in upgrading its current well-drilling
online permit to be part of the new department-wide e-permitting system for enhanced
functionality. Work also progressed on converting the Erosion and Sediment Control General
Permit from a paper application to an e-permit.
Both e-permits are expected to launch in fall 2018.
DEP expanded electronic form submission options for operators, enabling well records,
pre-drill survey sample results, site restoration reports, and other forms to be submitted online.
These upgrades save operators time and increase the public transparency of the regulatory
process. A 2017 update of the DEP compliance and enforcement tracking database to show the
number of days a company is in violation also increased public transparency.
New tools and initiatives were launched last year to step up efforts, in the face of great
funding need, to address the statewide problem of orphan and abandoned wells left by oil and
gas drilling operations before regulations were put in place in the 1980s.
DEP has now located 11,359 orphan and abandoned wells through its Legacy Well
Initiative. DEP estimates there are between 100,000 and 560,000 of these wells, with most
unaccounted for.
DEP increased inspections of these potentially hazardous wells; created online mapping
and video educational tools; and started a Good Samaritan Program to encourage and train the
private sector to help plug them.
The interactive, multimedia annual report offers several levels of data: the year in review;
deeper detail and historical data; and educational overviews of drilling and the regulatory process
statewide.
For example, users can see how much gas was produced in Pennsylvania in 2017,
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compare this to production since 2010, or drill down to see production by individual wells.
The annual report also features a section on the many ways the public can stay up-to-date
on regulations, for example, by signing up for email notifications or attending Oil and Gas
Technical Advisory Board Meetings in person or by webinar.
Click Here for a copy of the 2017 Annual Report.
NewsClip:
DEP Report: State Had Record Year For Natural Gas Production In 2017
Related Stories:
DEP: Conventional Oil & Gas Well Violations Up Nearly 80 Percent In 2016
House Passes Bill Weakening Standards For Conventional Oil & Gas Drilling
Senate, House Republicans Want Taxpayers, Not Drilling Industry, To Pay Additional Costs For
DEP Oil & Gas Regulatory Program
Commonwealth Court Strikes Down Protection Of Common Areas Of School Property,
Playgrounds, Species of Special Concern In DEP Drilling Permit Review Process
Penn State Extension: Update On Shale Gas Rule Of Capture Court Decision Webinar Sept. 20
FirstEnergy To Close Its Last Coal-Fired Power Plant In Pennsylvania, And The State’s
Largest
FirstEnergy Solutions Corp. late Wednesday notified

PJM Interconnection of its plans to deactivate four
fossil-fuel generating plants, including the 2,490
MW coal-fired Bruce Mansfield power plant in
Beaver County, its last coal-fired power plant in
Pennsylvania and the state’s largest.
FES said the plant will close by June 1, 2021.
FES also noted the deactivation date for the Beaver
Valley Nuclear Power Plant will be by May 2021 for
Unit 1 (939 MW) and October 2021 for Unit 2 (933
MW). Beaver Valley is also in Beaver County.
FES said it is closing the plants due to a market environment that fails to adequately
compensate generators for the resiliency and fuel-security attributes that the plants provide.
In the interim, the plants will continue normal operations.
Plant closures are subject to review by PJM. If PJM determines that one or more of these
units may be needed for grid reliability purposes, FES will provide information and estimates of
the costs and timing to keep some or all of the units open.
FES also filed requests for exemption from PJM's "must-offer" rules both for these
fossil-fired plants and for FES's three nuclear generating plants, whose planned deactivations
were announced March 28, 2018.
Under the must-offer rules, generating companies in the PJM region are required to make
their plants' capacity available to the grid in regular capacity auctions unless granted an
exception.
The annual auctions are held to secure capacity three years in advance. FES is seeking
exemptions from auctions covering the 2022-23 delivery year and beyond.
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"Our decision to retire the fossil-fueled plants was every bit as difficult as the one we
made five months ago to deactivate our nuclear assets," said Don Moul, President of FES
Generation Companies and Chief Nuclear Officer. "The action in no way reflects on the
dedication and work ethic of our employees, nor on the strong support shown by their union
leaders and the communities where the plants are located.
"As with nuclear, our fossil-fueled plants face the insurmountable challenge of a market
that does not sufficiently value their contribution to the security and flexibility of our power
system," Moul said, adding: "The market fails to recognize, for example, the on-site fuel storage
capability of coal, which increases the resilience of the grid."
The federal government is currently considering policy measures that would support
fossil and nuclear generating facilities considered at risk in the current market environment, but
vital to grid security and reliability. Depending on the timing of any federal policy action,
deactivation decisions could be reversed or postponed.
NewsClips:
FirstEnergy Closing Its Last Ohio And PA Coal-Fired Power Plants
Frazier: FirstEnergy To Close Bruce Mansfield, PA’s Largest Coal-Fired Power Plant
FirstEnergy Closing Its Last Ohio, Pennsylvania Coal-Fired Power Plants
FirstEnergy Announces Coal Plant Closures With A Message For Trump
AP: FirstEnergy To Close Coal Plants In Ohio, Pennsylvania
Litvak: Bruce Mansfield Coal-Fired Plant To Close In 2021
FirstEnergy To Retire More Than 4 GW Of PJM Coal Plant Capacity
FirstEnergy Solutions Enters Definitive Settlement Agreement With Key Parties In Bankruptcy
Proceedings
Related Stories:
FirstEnergy Takes Next Step In Deactivation Of Its 3 Nuclear Power Plants
Nuclear Energy Caucus: Testimony Highlights Environmental Impacts Of Premature Shutdown
Of Nuclear Power Plants
U.S. EIA: PA To Add 5.2 Gigawatts Of Natural Gas-Fired Electric Generating Capacity In 2018
Food & Water Watch Issues List Of 48 New, Planned Natural Gas-Fired Power Plants In PA
Schuylkill County Anthracite Coal Waste-To-Energy Power Plant To Shut Down
Gov. Wolf Announces $1 Million Grant To Reopen Anthracite Coal Mine In Columbia County
PA Supreme Court Denies Appeal Of Decisions Saying Local Zoning Ordinances Do Not
Apply To Mariner East Pipelines
The PA Supreme Court Tuesday declined to hear the appeal of two Commonwealth Court
decisions finding local zoning ordinances do not apply to the Mariner East Pipelines in Chester
and Delaware counties.
The Court denied the appeal of Delaware RiverKeeper v. Sunoco Pipeline (No. 952 C.D.
2017) and denied the appeal of Meghan Flynn, et al v. Sunoco Pipeline (No. 942 C.D. 2017).
The Delaware RiverKeeper case involved a request for injunctive relief to
Commonwealth Court from a Chester County court decision seeking to prevent Sunoco Pipeline
from constructing the Mariner East Pipelines in a manner that violates the West Goshen
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Township zoning ordinance.
Commonwealth Court upheld the county court’s findings that: (1) the Township’s power
to regulate the location of the ME2 pipeline was preempted by the Pennsylvania Public Utility
Commission’s (PUC) authority; (2) the trial court lacked subject matter jurisdiction over
Plaintiffs’ claims; (3) Plaintiffs did not establish a claim based on substantive due process; (4)
the ME2 pipeline is a public utility facility; and, (5) Plaintiffs were not entitled to injunctive
relief.
The Meghan Flynn et al case involved a request for injunctive relief to Commonwealth
Court from a Delaware County court decision seeking to again to prevent Sunoco Pipeline from
constructing the Mariner East Pipelines in violation of a Middletown Township subdivision and
land development ordinance.
Commonwealth Court upheld the county court’s findings on grounds similar to the
Chester County case.
Related Story:
Commonwealth Court to Hear Mariner East 2 Pipeline Case Challenging Eminent Domain On
Environmental Rights Amendment Grounds
PA Recycling Markets Center, Closed Loop Fund Announce $5 Million Partnership To

Invest In Municipal, Private Recycling Infrastructure
The PA Recycling Markets Center and Closed Loop

Fund Monday announced a statewide partnership to
make a $5 million investment in recycling
infrastructure in Pennsylvania.
The investment will come in the form of
zero-percent loans to municipalities and below
market loans to private companies with substantial
business operations in Pennsylvania.
RMC will assist in the identification and initial due diligence screening for applicants.
Closed Loop Fund will make the final evaluation on funding projects.
This statewide program follows Closed Loop Fund’s successful 2017 investment in
AeroAggregates in Philadelphia.
“We welcome any interested, qualifying party to work with us to access the Closed Loop
Fund,” said RMC Executive Director Robert Bylone. “In unprecedented volatility of recycled
materials markets, we need to aggressively pursue recycling infrastructure and recycled content
product manufacturing in Pennsylvania; a recycled item is not truly recycled until it is a new
product.
“We are grateful to the Closed Loop Fund for their assistance in putting Pennsylvania
recycling markets at the forefront of their efforts nationwide,” said Bylone. “We look forward to
continuing our work with entrepreneurs, manufacturers, processors, and collection programs but
now with the Closed Loop Fund directly paired to these Pennsylvania opportunities.”
“In this regard, the Closed Loop Fund greatly aligns with the mission of the Pennsylvania
Recycling Markets Center,” said PRMC Secretary, Bob Anderson.
“This is our first formal partnership with a non-profit corporation to help deploy below
13
market rate capital to enhance and create recycling systems across Pennsylvania. We are eager to
make an impact with the Pennsylvania Recycling Markets Center who has a track record of
recycling economic development successes,” says Ron Gonen, Managing Partner of Closed
Loop Fund.
The Closed Loop Fund is committed to investing in municipalities and private companies
developing new technologies focused on elimination of waste or the development of new or
improved recycling technologies; for projects designed to improve recycling rates, increase
demand for products made from recycled content; and grow existing markets and create new
markets for recycled material for which conventional sources of funding are unavailable.
Among the members of the Closed Loop Fund are Keurig Dr Pepper, Coca-Cola and
PepsiCo.
For more information, contact the PA Recycling Markets Center by calling
717-948-6660. The Center is located at Penn State Harrisburg, 777 West Harrisburg Pike,
Church Hall, Third Floor in Middletown, Dauphin County.
NewsClips:
Maykuth: Philly Refiner Plans $120M Plant To Convert Food Scraps To Fuel For Trucks, Buses
Lawrence Conservation District Receives Grant For Composting, Rainbarrel Seminar
Closed Loop Fund Announces $5M Partnership In Pennsylvania
Forging Funding Partnership For Recycling Infrastructure In PA
Mega Treehouse In Goldsboro Brings Out Inner Child; Has Recycling Story To Tell
Lehigh U. Student’s Ocean Journey Raises Awareness Of Trash In Bali’s Sea
Lehigh U. To Switch From Plastic To Paper Straws
Fire At Modern Landfill In York County Sends Column Of Smoke Into Air
Group Threatens Lawsuit Against Brunner Island Power Plant For Leaks From Coal Ash
Landfill
Crable: Environmental Groups Intend To Sue Brunner Island Over Coal Ash Pollution
Related Story:
Centre County Offers Recycle Right Advice For Penn State Football Games This Fall
DEP Has Storm Recovery Information Available, Time For Real Investment In Green
Infrastructure Solutions With Multiple Benefits
The Department of Environmental Protection has

available a resource for understanding the permit
and notification requirements affecting those
working in or adjacent to streams impacted by
flooding called Guidelines For Maintaining
Streams In Your Community.
The guide is a first step in determining what
regulatory requirements may apply before
beginning a project.
It contains a "green, yellow, and red light” list of
potential stream activities to indicate whether permits are likely to be required, and additional
sections titled “Good Rules of Thumb” and “Myth vs. Reality.”
14
Stream work that is not properly designed and permitted can inadvertently cause
conditions to worsen in the next flood event, also impacting downstream neighbors.
The new guide is intended to proactively share information with the public so that stream
work is done in an environmentally-sensitive manner, and in a way that reduces the likelihood of
future problems.
Click Here to download a copy.
Mosquito Precautions
Be sure to take precautions from West Nile Virus carrying mosquitoes. All this rain and
warm weather has provided near-perfect breeding conditions.
DEP has scheduled mosquito spraying operations for Columbia, Lycoming and
Schuylkill counties on September 4 and 5. Click Here for more.
Other upcoming spraying events are listed on the West Nile Virus Program homepage
(lower right) or Click Here to check on spraying in other parts of the state.
For more information about West Nile Virus and the state's surveillance and control
program, please visit the West Nile Virus website
Much More Info
DEP has other information available in dealing with storm-related impacts to drinking
water wells, water testing, flood recovery, managing debris, problems with flood-damaged
storage tanks and much more.
Visit DEP’s Storm-Related Information webpage.
The Future Is Green….. Infrastructure
Why invest $1 in one solution when you can invest that same $1 to help solve 3
problems?
With the heavy rainfall events over the last few weeks, green infrastructure is proving to
be a cost-effective solution to stormwater management and flood reduction as well as improving
water quality.
Every dollar invested in green infrastructure like restored floodplains and wetlands, forest
buffers, infiltration areas, rain gardens and recreation areas with built in stormwater benefits
yields triple benefits, not like single purpose cement and cinder block structures.
Philadelphia, Lancaster, Harrisburg, Pittsburgh, as well as Lycoming, Monroe and York
counties and groups of communities like in the Wyoming Valley have already turned to green
infrastructure with its multiple benefits to meet water quality goals with a single investment.
Pennsylvania’s initiative to develop the state’s Phase III Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Implementation Plan covering half the state is focused on developing county by county list of
green infrastructure policies and practices needed to fulfill the state’s Chesapeake Bay
obligations.
To learn more about green infrastructure see the articles below and read Meeting The
Challenge Of Keeping Pennsylvania Clean, Green And Growing.
It’s time we get away from single purpose solutions, especially where taxpayers money is
invested, and invest in the triple benefits of green infrastructure to keep Pennsylvania Clean,
Green and Growing.
(Photo: Flooding in Lancaster County outside Manheim on Route 772, PennLive.com.)
NewsClips:
Heavy Rain Causing Flash Flooding In Berks, Lebanon Counties
Heavy Rains Cause Severe Flooding Near Manheim, Mount Joy; Multiple Rescues
15
PennLive.com: Flooding In Lancaster County - Photos
Flash Floods Deluge Parts Of York County
AP: Unusually Heavy Rain In Central PA Closes Roads
Schuylkill County Hit With Another Round Of Flash Flooding
PennDOT Closes Numerous Roads Due To Flooding In Central PA
Delaware County Offering Assistance For Residents Affected By Flooding
York County Residents Asked To Report July, August Flood, Storm Damage
Lycoming Twp Seeking Solutions To Areas Prone To Flooding
Early Plans For Paxton Creek Could Reduce Floodplain, Entice Development In Harrisburg
Luzerne County Receives Bids For Ice Jam Damage Repairs At River Common
Editorial: Binghamton Sewer Overflow Woes Raise Concerns About Susquehanna
Green Infrastructure Related Stories:
Renew The State's Commitment To Keeping Pennsylvania Clean, Green And Growing
Meeting The Challenge Of Keeping Pennsylvania Clean, Green And Growing
Emma Creek Restoration Project Reduced Flood Damage, Sediment & Nutrient Pollution In
Huntingdon County
Another Green Infrastructure Project Reduces Flooding In Manheim, Lancaster County
Green Infrastructure Offers Triple Benefits, Cost Effective Solutions To Stormwater Pollution,
Reducing Flood Damage
Penn State Extension: After The Flood - Riparian Buffers Need Maintenance
How You Can Help
Association Finder
Take Action:
DEP: Mosquito Spraying Set For Columbia, Lycoming, Schuylkill Counties On September
4 And 5
The Department of Environmental Protection Friday

announced it will conduct mosquito control
operations to reduce high populations of mosquitoes
on September 4 in Columbia and Schuylkill counties
and September 5 in Lycoming County.
Mosquito control operations will begin late in the
evening in recreational and residential areas of the
municipalities where high populations of nuisance
mosquitoes and those capable of transmitting West
Nile virus have been detected.
September 4 - Columbia County
Mosquito control operations will be conducted in portions of Bloomsburg Borough and
Mifflin Township, Columbia County.
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DEP will utilize truck-mounted, Ultra Low Volume (ULV) spray equipment to apply
DeltaGuard, a public health mosquito control product registered with the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), at a rate of 1.0 oz/acre.
This product is designed to provide effective control of adult mosquito populations. Due
to treatment technique and risk classification of the active ingredient, the application is not
expected to have any impact on people or pets.
Weather conditions or other unexpected events could cause a delay or cancellation of the
spray operation.
September 4 - Schuylkill County
Mosquito control operations will be conducted in parts of Cressona and Schuylkill Haven
boroughs in Schuylkill County.
Truck-mounted, Ultra Low Volume (ULV) spray equipment will be utilized to spray
AquaDuet at a rate of 1.0 oz/acre. This product is designed to provide quick, effective control of
adult mosquito populations.
Weather conditions and other unexpected events (such as lowered mosquito populations)
could delay or cancel this spray operation. The rain date for this application is September 5.
September 5- Lycoming County
Mosquito Control Operations will be conducted in portions of Old Lycoming Township,
Lycoming County.
DEP will utilize truck-mounted, Ultra Low Volume (ULV) spray equipment to apply
DeltaGuard, a public health mosquito control product registered with the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA), at a rate of 1.0 oz/acre.
This product is designed to provide effective control of adult mosquito populations. Due
to treatment technique and risk classification of the active ingredient, the application is not
expected to have any impact on people or pets.
Weather conditions or other unexpected events could cause a delay or cancellation of the
spray operation.
Other Spraying Events
Other upcoming spraying events are listed on the West Nile Virus Program homepage
(lower right) or Click Here to check on spraying in other parts of the state.
For more information about West Nile virus and the state's surveillance and control
program, please visit the West Nile Virus website.
NewsClips:
DEP Advises Residents To Be Proactive To Combat West Nile Virus
WITF Smart Talk: Lyme Disease And Climate Change
Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule [Updated]/Gov’s Schedule/ Bills

Introduced
Here are the Senate and House Calendars for the next voting session day and Committees
scheduling action on bills of interest as well as a list of new environmental bills introduced--
Bill Calendars
17
House (Sept. 12): House Bill 107 (Godshall-R- Montgomery) providing a mechanism to cover
costs of extending natural gas distribution systems; House Bill 1401 (DiGirolamo-R-Bucks)
which amends Title 58 to impose a sliding scale natural gas severance tax, in addition to the Act
13 drilling impact fee, on natural gas production (NO money for environmental programs) and
includes provisions related to minimum landowner oil and gas royalties; House Bill 1446
(Quinn-R- Bucks) encouraging infrastructure for electric and natural gas fueled vehicles; House
Resolution 284 (Moul-R-Adams) urging Congress to repeal the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency’s MS4 Stormwater Pollution Prevention Program (sponsor summary); Senate Bill 1172
(Vulakovich-R-Allegheny) further providing for enforcement of price gouging provisions during
an emergency declaration (Senate Fiscal Note and summary). <> Click Here for full House Bill
Calendar.
Senate (Sept. 24): Senate Bill 820 (Aument-R- Lancaster) providing liability protection for
owners and operators of on-farm agritourism activities (sponsor summary); Senate Bill 917
(Dinniman-R-Chester) amends Act 101 Municipal Waste Planning and Recycling Act to include
spent mushroom compost under the definition of “compost materials to encourage its reuse
(sponsor summary); Senate Bill 930 (Dinniman-D- Chester) sets notification requirements
related to pipeline emergencies (sponsor summary); Senate Bill 931 (Dinniman-D-Chester)
requires the installation of automatic or remote controlled safety values in natural gas pipelines
in densely populated areas; Senate Bill 1199 (Rafferty-R- Montgomery) providing for a
landowners’ bill of rights in cases of eminent domain, including by private entities like pipeline
companies (sponsor summary); Senate Resolution 104 (Bartolotta-R- Washington) resolution
urging the Governor to end the moratorium on new non-surface disturbance natural gas drilling
on state forest land (sponsor summary); Senate Resolution 373 (Rafferty-R-Montgomery) is a
concurrent Senate-House resolution to establish a Senate-House legislative Commission to Study
Pipeline Construction and Operations and to recommend improvements for the safe transport of
oil, natural gas and other hazardous liquids through pipelines; House Bill 544 (Moul-R-Adams)
further providing for liability protection for landowners opening their land for public recreation;
House Bill 927 (Rader-R-Monroe) amends Act 101 Municipal Waste Planning and Recycling
Act to eliminate the mandate on smaller municipalities to have a leaf waste collection program
(House Fiscal Note and summary); House Bill 1550 (Klunk-R-York) amending the Agricultural
Area Security Law to allow for a residence for the principal landowner (House Fiscal Note and
summary). <> Click Here for full Senate Bill Calendar.
Committee Meeting Agendas This Week
House: <> Click Here for full House Committee Schedule.
Senate: <> Click Here for full Senate Committee Schedule.
Bills Pending In Key Committees
Check the PA Environmental Council Bill Tracker for the status and updates on pending state
legislation and regulations that affect environmental and conservation efforts in Pennsylvania.
18
Bills Introduced
The following bills of interest were introduced last week--
Landowner Bill Of Rights: House Bill 2609 (Quinn-R-Delaware) providing a Landowner Bill
Of Rights for landowners dealing with cases of eminent domain for pipeline and other projects
(sponsor summary).
Session Schedule
Here is the latest voting session schedule for the Senate and House--
Senate
Recessed to the call of the President Pro Tempore
September 24, 25, 26
October 1, 2, 3, 15, 16, 17
November 14
House [Updated]
Recessed to the call of the House Speaker
September 12 (non-voting), 13 (non-voting), 24, 25, & 26.
October 1 (Non-Voting), 2 (Non-Voting), 9, 10, 15, 16, & 17.
November 13
Governor’s Schedule
Gov. Tom Wolf's work calendar will be posted each Friday and his public schedule for the day
will be posted each morning. Click Here to view Gov. Wolf’s Weekly Calendar and Public
Appearances.
News From Around The State
The Department of Agriculture Wednesday reminded

landowners $10 million dollars in tax credits are available to
help farmers statewide implement best management practices
(BMPs) to prevent water pollution or purchase conservation
equipment through 2018-19 Resource Enhancement and
Protection (REAP) Program tax credits.
This is a first-come, first-served program.
REAP is a Pennsylvania tax credit program for agricultural
producers who install BMPs or make equipment purchases
that reduce nutrient and sediment runoff, which improves
Pennsylvania’s streams and watersheds.
19
The program is administered by the State Conservation Commission, which provides
support and oversight to the state's 66 county conservation districts.
“Through a dozen years of service to our producers, REAP has made it possible for more
than 2,100 producers to improve the stewardship of their land,” said Agriculture Secretary
Russell Redding. “From manure storage to streambank buffers to precision ag equipment, REAP
supports both viable farms and healthy waterways. Start thinking now about how REAP-eligible
products could improve the productivity and profitability of your farm.”
Farmers may receive tax credits of up to $150,000 per agricultural operation for 50 to 75
percent of a project’s cost.
The most common projects approved are for no-till planting and precision ag equipment,
waste storage facilities, conservation plans, Nutrient Management Plans, and protecting animal
heavy use areas like barnyards.
Cover crops and riparian stream buffers are also common REAP-eligible practices. REAP
can be used in conjunction with other funding sources such as the Environmental Quality
Incentive Program (EQIP) or the Chesapeake Bay Program to help install BMPs.
For projects that include the proposed purchase of equipment, the equipment must be
delivered by June 30, 2019. For projects involving the implementation of structural BMPs, all
BMPs and BMP components must be complete by June 30, 2020, to be eligible.
REAP applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. The only eligibility
requirement is that producers must be in compliance with the Pennsylvania Clean Streams Law.
Private investors may act as project sponsors by providing capital in exchange for tax
credits. Any individual or business subject to taxation through personal income tax, corporate net
income tax, the bank shares tax or others is eligible to participate in REAP.
Since the program began in 2007, REAP has awarded tax credits to more than 5,200
projects totaling more than $76 million.
The improvements have kept nearly five million pounds of nitrogen, nearly 200,000
pounds of phosphorus, and more than 200,000 tons of sediment.
Private investments in REAP have also contributed to the conservation projects, which in
total are worth more than $196 million.
The 2018-19 REAP application packet, as well as other information about REAP, is
available on the Department of Agriculture’s REAP webpage or by contacting Joel Semke at
717-705-4032 or by sending email to: jsemke@pa.gov.
For more information about Pennsylvania’s efforts to improve water quality in the
Chesapeake Bay Watershed, visit DEP’s Watershed Implementation Plan webpage.
DCNR Multifunction Buffer Grants
Landowners can also apply for grants to install multifunctional riparian forest buffers
from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and PennVEST. The deadline for
applications is September 28. Click Here for more.
Small Business Advantage Grants
For the first time, DEP is accepting applications for projects to improve water quality
under the Small Business Advantage Grants. This first-come, first served program has $1
million available to fund projects. Click Here for more.
NewsClips:
17,000+ Acres Preserved, Bucks County Surpasses Farmland Preservation Milestone
EHB Challenges Plans For Huge Franklin County Egg Farm
20
Related Stories:
PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach, Engagement
Feature: Penn State Extension's Master Watershed Stewards Are Making A Difference In PA
How You Can Help
Association Finder
Take Action:
The Berks County Conservation District will host a

Farm Tour October 5 at the Deep Roots Valley
Farm in Mohrsville with hosts Will and Kelly
Smith to educate invited guests on farm
conservation practices.
Conservation district staff, local and state
officials, cooperating agencies and partners will
tour this award-winning farm pointing out best
management conservation practices. The Tour will
also feature comments by Berks County legislators.
Deep Roots Valley Farm was one of four
farms recognized with the 2018 Clean Water Farm
Award by the PA Association of Conservation Districts and the Department of Environmental
Protection.
Deep Roots Valley Farm is a beef, hog, and poultry farm with 95 acres of pasture. Best
management practices include animal walkways, rotational grazing, and riparian buffers.
In nominating the Farm for the award, the Berks County Conservation District said in
part, “The Smiths have shown their hard work, dedication, and willingness to research. They
have gone above and beyond, creating a sustainable farm for their family, their community, and
the environment.”
Funding to support the Tour was provided by a $2,000 Water Pollution Reduction
Reduction Grant through the PA Association of Conservation Districts with the financial support
of the Department of Environmental Protection under Section 319 of the Clean Water Act,
administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
For more information on programs, initiatives and services, visit the Berks County
Conservation District or call 610-372-4657.
21
(Photo: Will & Kelly Smith, Deep Roots Valley Farm from Lancaster Farming, 2013)
NewsClip:
Lancaster Farming: Revamping The Family Farm At Deep Roots Valley
Installing A Green Roof Is Good For Business, Clean Water, Climate
Pittsburgh Water Authority Poised To Introduce Stormwater Fee
Related Stories:
PACD, DEP: 4 Pennsylvania Farms Receive 2018 Clean Water Farm Award
How You Can Help
Association Finder
Take Action:
(Stay informed on PA Association of Conservation Districts activities. Click Here to sign up for
the Front Page eNewsletter.)
The 2018 Conservation District Watershed Specialist

Meeting will take place at Toftrees Golf Resort in State
College on October 9-11 for newer watershed
specialists and October 10-11 for the full group.
Special training for newer watershed specialists will
take place on October 9.
Highlights from this year's agenda include
macroinvertebrate training by the Stroud Water
Research Center, hands-on training with PAOneStop
and the Web Soil Survey, an update on invasive
species, and much more.
Registration is open to conservation district watershed specialists and invited guests. The
deadline to register is October 1.
Click Here for more information and to register for the meeting.
(Photo: "Ecosystem Engineer" by Chelsea Walker, Watershed Specialist for the Westmoreland
22
Conservation District and winner of the 2017 CD Watershed Specialist Photo Contest.)
Related Stories:
How You Can Help
Association Finder
Take Action:
(Reprinted from the August 27 Front Page eNewsletter, PA Association of Conservation
Districts. C
lick Here to sign up for your own copy.)
Sept. 18 Webinar: Working With Rural Landowners On Voluntary Conservation,

Research Results
Water Words that Work, Chesapeake Land And

Water Initiative will host a webinar on September
18 starting at 1:00 p.m. to review the results of
their research into Working With Rural
Landowners On Voluntary Conservation.
Learn about the findings of our research on rural
landowner outreach, from the perspective of some
of the watershed’s top NGO, agency, and private
sector outreach professionals.
Through survey and focus group results, this
project provides new insights to help staff at soil
conservation districts, land trusts, and other agency and NGO partners build and refine their
outreach skills.
Findings from this research will also inform training workshops to be delivered later this
fall in several watershed locations.
This project is a collaboration of Water Words that Work and the Chesapeake Land and
Water Initiative, a partnership of the Chesapeake Bay Funders Network and the Land Trust
Alliance.
The project is supported by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Chesapeake Bay
Stewardship Fund’s Technical Capacity Grants Program and funded in partnership with the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, as well as with support from the Foundation for
Pennsylvania’s Watersheds.
Click Here to register. Questions should be directed to Jennifer Miller Herzog by
23
sending email to: jmillerherzog@lta.org or calling 406-580-6410.
Related Stories:
How You Can Help
Association Finder
Take Action:
Stroud Water Research Center Invites Citizen Scientists To Celebrate World Water
Monitoring Day Sept. 19
The Stroud Water Research Center in Chester

County invites citizen scientists to help celebrate
World Water Monitoring Day on September 19
from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the Center, 970
Spencer Road in Avondale.
World Water Monitoring Day aims to
build public awareness and involvement in
protecting water resources around the world by
empowering citizens to carry out basic
monitoring of their local water bodies.
Come learn about the Stroud Center’s
water monitoring work and find out how you
can get involved!
There will also be a special keynote speaker-- author, conservationist and photographer
Tim Palmer will present his book Wild & Scenic Rivers of America on the 50th anniversary of
the federal Wild & Scenic Rivers Act.
Click Here to RSVP or for more information on this event.
For more information on programs, initiatives and special events, visit the Stroud Water
Research Center website, Click Here to subscribe to UpStream. Click Here to subscribe to
Stroud’s Educator newsletter. Click Here to become a Friend Of Stroud Research, Like them on
Facebook, Follow on Twitter, include them in your Circle on Google+ and visit their YouTube
Channel.
How You Can Help
24
Association Finder
Take Action:
Northampton County Parks & Rec Staff, Watershed Volunteers Repair Riparian Buffer At
Fry’s Run County Park Within Days Of Flash Flood
By: Jim Wilson, Northampton County Parks &

Recreation Division
On August 11, another flash flood for the record

books slammed the Fry’s Run watershed in
Williams Township, Northampton County as well
as other stream basins across the Lehigh Valley.
Many of the 200-plus container stock trees
planted along nearly 800 linear feet of the creek at
Fry’s Run Park by County Parks & Recreation staff
and Fry’s Run Watershed Association volunteers over the past three years, were smashed flat by
raging floodwaters, which crested over 13-feet above the top of the streambank at the park.
Within 24 hours of the flood, volunteers with the watershed association and Penn State
Extension’s Master Watershed Steward Program were on the scene, resurrecting as best they
could, dozens of flattened and bent-over trees temporarily propping them up with flood debris.
Everything from broken tree limbs and wooden fence slats to metal fence posts and even an
electric chainsaw was used.
With their roots well enough established, not a single tree was ripped out of the ground
and lost to floodwaters-- a testament to the strength and function of riparian buffer trees.
Knowing time was of the essence and that the trees would need to be pushed back up and
properly staked while the soils were still wet and gooey, County Parks & Rec staff, with funding
from the Wildlands Conservancy, purchased 110 four- and five-foot long, two- by two-inch oak
stakes and 500-feet of tie to stake and guy the trees upright.
Within a week of the flood, parks & rec staff and watershed volunteers using the stakes,
tie, post drivers, sledgehammers and plenty of hard work, straightened up about 100 flood-
damaged trees at Fry’s Run Park.
A comealong was cabled to oak stakes to winch back upright the largest of the flattened
and most severely bent over trees.
With increasing frequency and severity in localized flooding, this equipment and these
supplies should be in every watershed association’s toolbox for riparian tree flood repair.
Staff and volunteers at the park also removed streamside flood debris as well as debris in
riparian buffer, like tree limbs and leaves, shoveled flood sediment away from buffer tree trunks
and used chainsaws to cut up and remove large flood-fallen trees from Fry’s Run and its
streambanks.
Kudos to all Northampton County Parks and Recreation staff and watershed volunteers
for their rapid response and speedy flood damage repair and recovery work at Fry’s Run Park!
(Photo: Some of the volunteers and Parks & Rec staff cleanup crew.)
25
Jim Wilson is a Recreation Specialist with the Northampton County Parks & Recreation
Division and can be contacted by sending email to: JWilson@northamptoncounty.org.
NewsClips:
Related Articles:
Green Infrastructure Offers Triple Benefits, Cost Effective Solutions To Stormwater Pollution,
Reducing Flood Damage
Another Green Infrastructure Project Reduces Flooding In Manheim, Lancaster County
Emma Creek Restoration Project Reduced Flood Damage, Sediment & Nutrient Pollution In
Huntingdon County
How You Can Help
Association Finder
Take Action:
The Partnership for the Delaware Estuary will hold the annual
Pennsylvania Coast Day festival on September 15 at Penn’s Landing
in Philadelphia and the Camden Adventure Aquarium from 10:00
a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Since 2000, PDE has held this fun free, family event along the
Delaware River in partnership with the Pennsylvania Coastal Zone
Management, the Philadelphia Water Department and many other
local organizations.
This year, PDE proudly adds a new partner-- the Alliance for
Watershed Education-- for their annual River Days.
26
The Delaware River Festival will be a combined day of events, with Coast Day on the
Philadelphia side of the river, and AWE’s River Days kickoff on the other side near Camden
Adventure Aquarium.
AWE is a regional initiative of 23 associated environmental education centers throughout
the Delaware River Watershed.
Each year AWE holds River Days, a month long series of events to promote its mission
of providing education and recreational opportunities that inspire personal action.
This year’s River Days will kick-off in Camden with the waterfront festival, hosted by
the Center for Aquatic Sciences. Together, River Days and Coast Day will create a coast-to-coast
celebration of the Delaware River.
Attendees will be able to visit both sides of the river by riding the RiverLink Ferry free of
charge, and participate in a morning bike ride over the Ben Franklin Bridge.
The fun starts at 10 a.m. in Camden and 11 a.m. in Philadelphia. Coast Day attendees can
expect a variety of on-the-water experiences, free face painting, an exciting scavenger hunt with
prizes, crafts for kids, and the opportunity to help with a brand new Philadelphia Mural Arts
project.
River Days attendees can expect live music, games and crafts, hands-on displays, a beer
garden, and the opportunity to bike along the waterfront. There’s a great time in store for
everyone on both sides of the river.
For more information, visit the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary’s Pennsylvania
Coast Day webpage and the Delaware River Festival Facebook event page.
NewsClips:
Related Stories:
Photo Of PA's Neshaminy Creek Winner Of Delaware River Basin Commission Summer Photo
Contest; Fall Contest Starts
Photo Of PA's Neshaminy Creek Winner Of Delaware River Basin Commission Summer
Photo Contest; Fall Contest Starts
The Delaware River Basin Commission Wednesday

announced Paul Michael Bergeron’s photograph, titled
Lazin’ at Neshaminy Creek on an Early Summer Day,
was chosen as the winner of the Commission’s
Summer 2018 Photo Contest.
The Neshaminy Creek is a Pennsylvania
tributary to the Delaware River. Twenty-four
photographs were submitted by 13 individuals for the
contest.
“I became enthralled with the Delaware River
27
from living on the waterfront for over twenty years,” said Paul Michael Bergeron of Andalusia,
Pa. “Nature, bird, and wildlife photography is my passion, especially capturing the beauty and
magnificence of the historic Delaware River and its environs.”
The winning image was chosen by a judging panel of four DRBC staff members and will
be featured on the commission’s website at and on DRBC’s Twitter and Flickr social media sites.
The photo will also be published in the commission’s 2018 annual report, and the winner will
receive a certificate of recognition.
“We thank everyone who entered this season’s photo contest,” said DRBC Executive
Director Steve Tambini. “While there were many great entries to choose from, Paul’s photo
stood out for highlighting one of the best parts of summer and something that we at DRBC love
to see: people outside, connecting with nature and enjoying the waters of the Delaware River
Basin, be it fishing, wading, or simply relaxing and taking in the view.”
The purpose of DRBC’s seasonal photo contest is to highlight amateur and professional
photography representing the beauty, diversity, function, and significance of the water resources
of the Delaware River Basin, a 13,539-square mile watershed.
Fall Contest Opens Sept. 24
The Fall Photo Contest will begin on September 24 and has a deadline of November 1,
2018. Complete contest details, including instructions on how to submit photographs are
available at DRBC’s Photo Contest webpage.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Delaware
River Basin Commission website. Click Here to sign up for regulator updates. Follow DRBC
on Twitter. Visit them on YouTube.
NewsClips:
Related Stories:
How You Can Help
Association Finder
Take Action:
Feature: Penn State Extension's Master Watershed Stewards Are Making A Difference In
PA
In a state with more than 12 million

people and robust agricultural and
resource-extraction industries, the
water quality in Pennsylvania's more
than 86,000 miles of streams and rivers
28
is always a dicey proposition.
But a statewide volunteer group marshaled by Penn State Extension is starting to make a
difference.
About five years old, the Master Watershed Stewards Program-- which was founded to
strengthen the local capacity for management and protection of watersheds, streams and rivers by
educating and empowering volunteers across the Commonwealth-- is established in 13 counties
and looking to expand further.
With more than 300 volunteers trained in watershed management, the program was
recently the recipient of the Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence.
In return for the training, those volunteers have donated nearly 23,000 hours to improving
water quality, and the value of that time is pegged at more than a half-million dollars.
Program administrators estimate that Master Watershed Steward volunteers have made
nearly 250,000 educational contacts to inform their communities about watershed stewardship
based on university research and recommendations.
Already, the volunteers have accomplished an impressive list of achievements, a few of
which follow:
-- Assisting the Department of Environmental Protection with water quality sampling.
-- Assisting with stream cleanups, invasive plant removal and the planting of riparian buffers.
-- Taking the lead on inspecting and maintaining stormwater basins, reforesting appropriate areas
and creating nature trails.
-- Designing and helping to install demonstration rain gardens at municipal buildings.
-- Monitoring streams and ponds for mussels and reporting the data to the Partnership for the
Delaware Estuary. (There are plans for the volunteer stewards to help reseed mussels into
acceptable waterways.)
-- Building rain barrels and conducting rain-barrel workshops.
-- Improving water trails and enhancing recreational stream access.
-- Organizing educational projects that promote public awareness of water-quality issues.
Master Watershed Stewards Coordinator Erin Frederick noted that government regulators
and environmental professionals need help.
"No matter how many paid protectors of water quality there are, they can't possibly
accomplish all the one-on-one outreach, engagement and action needed to bring changes to so
many sites, over so great an area," she said.
"Watershed Stewards help to bridge the gap in time and labor." One steward who is
enthusiastic about the program and is enjoying volunteering is Matt Hartman, of York. For him,
getting involved with the effort to promote water quality was only natural.
"I just love water-- I always have. I love it when it's flowing and when it's still. I love
what it can do for us when we respect it," he said.
"Storm runoff affects everybody and everything, and with me being in building
construction, I have to deal with a lot of stormwater,” Hartman explained. “We create
impervious surfaces that stormwater runs off, and dealing with it properly is very important to
the environment. The runoff needs to go somewhere without carrying sediment and pollution
with it."
Hartman values the opportunity to learn the science behind protecting watersheds and
relishes passing on the knowledge to others.
"People need to understand the importance of controlling stormwater runoff, how we can
29
keep clean, safe drinking water, and how to keep bacteria out of the water by the proper handling
of our sewage discharges," said Hartman. "It feels right to me to help get the word out."
Most of the Master Watershed Stewards have similar feelings, Frederick believes. And--
perhaps unexpectedly-- she has seen the program benefit the volunteers almost as much as they
help the program.
"We found that when we interview people for the program, they always have an interest
in the environment, but they never felt like they had enough education, and they didn't know how
they could plug in to the local environmental community," she said.
"So our training gives them that confidence and background to take on volunteer
opportunities. A lot of our folks, the longer they have been in the program, the more effective
leaders they become,” said Frederick. “That's what we're most proud of — these people
previously were not involved, and now they are, for example, becoming board members of
watershed groups, and they are able to handle projects on their own."
Frederick suggested that a key strength of the Master Watershed Stewards program is
collaboration with local and state organizations, agencies and government, including the
Department of Environmental Protection, the Department of Conservation and Natural
Resources, Trout Unlimited, Stroud Water Research Center, county conservation districts, PA
Environmental Council, Pennsylvania Sea Grant, conservancies and the Watershed Coalition of
the Lehigh Valley.
There are Master Watershed Stewards Programs in Allegheny, Berks, Bucks, Chester,
Delaware, Lackawanna, Lehigh, Luzerne, Monroe, Montgomery, Northampton, Wyoming and
York Counties.
The Master Watershed Stewards always are looking for more help, and Frederick urges
anyone with a desire to volunteer to improve water quality to visit the website or contact her for
more information at 610-391-9840 or send email to: elf145@psu.edu.
(Photo: Master Watershed Stewards partner with Allegheny County Conservation District in
Saw Mill Run Watershed.)
Related Stories:
Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward Program Receives Governor’s Environmental
Excellence Award
Master Watershed Stewards Tackle Japanese Knotweed At Jacobsburg Environmental Center In
Northampton County
Montgomery County Master Watershed Steward: Green Infrastructure Solutions To Stormwater
In Stony Creek Watershed
Lehigh/Northampton Master Watershed Steward Trainees Complete Training
York Master Watershed Stewards Rain Barrel Workshop Aug. 8
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How You Can Help
Association Finder
Take Action:
(Reprinted from Penn State News.)

Pennsylvania Water & Wastewater Technology Summit Nov. 1-2 In State College
The PA Chapter of the American Water Works Association, PA Municipal Authorities
Association and the PA Water Environment Association will hold the 2018 PA Water &
Wastewater Technology Summit November 1-2 at the Penn Stater Conference Center in State
College.
The theme this year is From Subsurface Technology to Drones.
Click Here for a detailed agenda. Click Here to register.
Centre County Offers Recycle Right Advice For Penn State Football Games This Fall
The Centre County Recycling and Refuse

Authority is again helping Penn State football fans
Recycle Right at upcoming games.
It is easy for fans to recycle at upcoming football
tailgates. Once settled in at tailgate locations, fans
are encouraged to grab a blue bag for recycling
and a clear bag for trash. Bag dispensers are found
in every tailgating field and parking lot.
Blue bags are for recyclables and limited to plastic
and glass bottles and metal cans. Everything else should be placed in clear trash bags. Full bags
should be secured closed and left at each tailgate spot for Physical Plant crews to collect the
morning after each home game.
Clear bags go to the landfill, while the blue bags are delivered to the Centre County
Recycling & Refuse Authority for sorting and recycling.
Remember: Blue bags are for bottles and cans only – Clear bags are for trash.
Fans are asked to leave their tailgate area cleaner than it was found. The fields are
multi-use by students, faculty, staff, visitors, as well as agriculture. It is integral for the safety of
all users that the fields are clean of debris.
The CCRRA thanks all fans for their efforts in sorting their trash and recycling, and
keeping their tailgate areas clean.
For more information on programs, initiatives, services and upcoming events, visit the
Centre County Recycling and Refuse Authority website.
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NewsClips:
Landfill
Related Story:
PA Recycling Markets Center, Closed Loop Fund Announce $5 Million Partnership To Invest In
Municipal, Private Recycling Infrastructure
Not In Philly Meet-Up To Talk Trash & Combat Litter Event Sept. 18
Not in Philly, a project of the PA Resources Council,

Friday announced it will hold a Litter? Not in Philly
Meet-up and Ambassador Training session on
September 18, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Pipeline
Philadelphia, Graham Building, Dilworth Park, 30 S
15th Street, 15th Floor in Philadelphia.
Not in Philly is a citizen-driven tech platform whose
mission is to clean up the city of Philadelphia block by
block.
The group invites members, neighborhood organizations, prospective sponsors, and other
supporters to share information about the Not In Philly project and how the public can get
involved.
Current Not in Philly members will also have the opportunity to learn more about
becoming an ambassador for the project.
The event will begin with a meet-and-greet happy hour, followed by a presentation on the
unexpected ways litter damages our communities and how Philadelphians can utilize the Not in
Philly platform to end this widespread problem.
This event is free and open to the public, though registration is required. Click Here to
register or for more information.
For more information on the program and how you can get involved, visit the Not in
Philly website.
For more information on programs, initiatives and special events, visit the PA Resources
Council website. Click Here to sign up for regular updates, follow PRC on Twitter or Like them
on Facebook. Click Here for PRC’s Events Calendar. Click Here to support their work.
NewsClips:
32
Landfill
Call For Presentations: PA Environmental Professionals Annual Conference May 8-10
The PA Association of Environmental

Professionals have issued a call for
presentation proposals for their 2019 Annual
Conference to be held May 8-10 in State
College. The deadline is September 20.
The theme for the 2019 Annual Conference,
Growth Through Collaboration, will promote
the importance of working together to learn
about the unique, interdisciplinary nature of
our environmental industry and will exemplify the benefits of doing so.
PAEP is looking for a large variety of environmental topics for the conference
presentations, which may include, but are not limited to: Green Stormwater Management;
Environmental Engineering; Air Quality Monitoring; Wetlands; Natural Resources;
Remediation; Green Innovation; Environmental Hazards; Sustainability; Conservation; Biofuels;
Soils Science; Environmental Compliance/Permits; Agriculture; Climate Change Research;
Water Resources; Government/Regulatory Updates; and Environmental Restoration
Click Here to submit your presentation proposal.
For more information on programs, initiatives and special events, visit the Professional
Recyclers of PA website. Click Here to sign up for regular updates from PROP. Click Here to
become a member.
DEP Hearing Oct. 10 On Georgia Pacific RACT II Air Quality Plan In McKean County
The Department of Environmental Protection has scheduled an October 10 hearing on the

proposed RACT II Air Quality Plan for the Georgia Pacific Plant in Sergeant Township,
McKean County. (S ept. 1 PA Bulletin page 5561)
The hearing will be held at DEP’s Northwest Regional Office, 230 Chestnut Street in
Meadville starting at 9:00 a.m.
To register to speak at the hearing, or to inquire if the hearing will be held, contact
Melanie Williams, Regional Community Relations Coordinator, at 814-332- 6615. The last day
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to pre-register to speak at the hearing will be October 3. If we do not receive any pre-registered
speakers by this date, the hearing will be cancelled.
Read the PA Bulletin notice for additional details. (Sept. 1 PA Bulletin page 5561)
NewsClips:
U.S. Steel Submits Compliance Plan For Clairton (Coal) Coke Works
Critics Not Holding Their Breath Over Pledge To Improve Practices At Clairton (Coal) Coking
Plant
Op-Ed: To Keep Enjoying Outdoor Spaces, Philly Air Quality Needs Improvement - Joe Minott
Gov. Wolf: $500,000 Grant To Redevelop IAC Brownfield In Cumberland County
Gov. Tom Wolf Thursday announced $500,000 in funding to redevelop the 48-acre IAC
brownfield site in Carlisle Borough, Cumberland County by Carlisle Productions, Inc.
“This formerly developed site will receive new life – and new opportunities – with this
funding,” Gov. Wolf said. “By redeveloping this expansive site, Carlisle Borough will extend
both its downtown footprint and make progress on its brownfield plan, adding jobs and economic
development opportunities at the same time.”
The property consists of 25 acres of former manufacturing facilities and 23 acres of
unimproved land. Redevelopment of the site is a top priority of the Borough of Carlisle’s Urban
Redevelopment Plan and EPA Areawide Brownfield Plan.
The project will transform the site into a vibrant extension of downtown Carlisle by
developing the site into a mixed-use development featuring retail, office, restaurant, hotel, and
market-rate housing.
Funds will be used to complete on-site preparation work for the development. An
estimated 220 jobs will be created within five years of completion.
“The project is expected to create more than 220 local jobs over the next few years and
will enhance Carlisle’s local tourism industry by better connecting key economic hubs to the
downtown,” said Sen. Mike Regan (R-Cumberland). “In addition, the project will offer new
hotel and retail amenities within walking distance of Carlisle’s largest attractions.”
Supported through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, funding will support
critical expansion projects, some of which will provide opportunities for additional economic
development.
NewsClip:
Brownfield Restoration Project Eyed For Lycoming County
Penn State Extension: Update On Shale Gas Rule Of Capture Court Decision Webinar
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Sept. 20
On September 20 Penn State Extension is holding

another it is series of Shale Gas Legislative and
Regulatory Update Webinars, this one focused on the
PA Superior Court decision on the rule of capture. The
webinar will be held from 1:00 to 2:00.
On April , the Pennsylvania Superior Court
stated it is possible that hydraulic fracturing resulting in
natural gas extraction from adjoining land may
constitute a claim for trespass.
In Briggs v. Southwestern Energy Production
Company, a two-judge panel questioned the common understanding that the rule of capture
applies to current shale drilling operations.
The defendant, Southwestern Energy, hydraulically fractured a well on land adjacent to
the Briggs property, for which the company did not have a lease. The Plaintiff filed a complaint
asserting claims of trespass and conversion. The trial court granted Southwestern’s motion,
agreeing that the rule of capture applied.
The case was appealed to the Superior Court, with the Plaintiff stating there were
significant differences between fracking and the conventional process of drilling into a reservoir
of fluids, and gas in shale formations would be trapped if not forced out by hydraulic fracturing
methods.
The Superior Court held that, in Pennsylvania, “the rule of capture does not preclude
liability for trespass due to hydraulic fracturing. Therefore, hydraulic fracturing may constitute
an actionable trespass where subsurface fractures, fracturing fluid and proppant cross boundary
lines and extend into the subsurface estate of an adjoining property for which the operator does
not have a mineral lease, resulting in the extraction of natural gas from beneath the adjoining
landowner’s property.”
The court reversed and remanded the case, to determine if the Defendant’s operations had
in fact resulted in subsurface trespass, noting it could be difficult to prove.
Ross Pifer, Director of the Center for Agricultural and Shale Law, stated that there are
two critical flaws that will muddy the waters in the Superior Court’s decision.
One is that the court draws a distinction between hydraulic fracturing and conventional
gas drilling, when basically all wells in the Commonwealth, both conventional and
unconventional, are hydraulically fractured.
The court has called shale gas ‘non-migratory in nature’ when in fact shale gas does
naturally escape and gather in shallower rock formations over eons of time.
“I think this case could have an impact on shale development because it’s opening the
door for trespass liability. There still would have to be proof of trespass, but this court is saying
that it’s possible for a company to be held liable for trespass,” said Pifer.
Join Pifer as he discusses in detail the law, rule of capture, and what changes may mean
for landowners and industry.
Click Here to register or for more information.
Related Stories:
PA Superior Court: Taking Natural Gas Without Permission From Neighboring Property Is
35
Trespass, Overturning Rule Of Capture For Unconventional Gas Wells
DEP: Conventional Oil & Gas Well Violations More Than Triple Between 2015-2017
[Posted: August 31 2018]
Luminant, a subsidiary of Vistra Energy, Friday announced it filed a notice of suspension of

operations with PJM and other mandatory regulatory notifications related to the retirement of its
51-megawatt waste coal facility, Northeastern Power Company, in McAdoo, Schuylkill County,
due to its uneconomic operations and negative financial outlook.
Following the receipt of regulatory approvals, the plant is expected to close in late 2018.
Luminant estimates fewer than 25 full-time positions will be affected by this decision.
Eligible employees will be offered severance benefits and outplacement assistance.
The company said it will take the necessary and required steps to decommission the
facility, including working with the key constituents.
NewsClips:
Even In Coal Country, Trump Aid Won’t Keep This Power Plant Open
Related Stories:
FirstEnergy To Close Its Last Coal-Fired Power Plant In Pennsylvania, And The State’s Largest
Gov. Wolf Announces $1 Million Grant To Reopen Anthracite Coal Mine In Columbia County
Gov. Wolf Announces $1 Million Grant To Reopen Anthracite Coal Mine In Columbia
County
Gov. Tom Wolf Tuesday announced $1 million in

funding for a mine development project that will
reengineer, reopen, and redevelop a large reserve of
Mammoth anthracite coal in the Mount Carmel region
of Columbia County.
“I will continue to partner with industry and
our local communities to ensure that the
commonwealth reaps the greatest possible benefit
from our resources, so that our communities, our
industries, and our workforce can thrive and
Pennsylvania will remain competitive in the manufacturing economy,” said Gov. Wolf.
Blaschak Coal Corporation was approved for a $1 million grant to develop a large reserve
of Mammoth coal in the Mount Carmel region. The development will employ 25 to 30 United
Mine Workers of America miners and is the largest new mine development project in the region.
Once the development is complete, it will provide a considerable production of high
quality anthracite coal for more than 20 years.
As mining progresses, the land will be reclaimed and made available for alternative uses
in the community. Wages for the created jobs more than double the median household income in
36
the region.
Supported through the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program, funding will support
critical expansion projects, some of which will provide opportunities for additional economic
development.
NewsClips:
Related Stories:
Gov. Wolf Announces Funding For Coal Cleaning Plant, Rail Line In Somerset County
FirstEnergy To Close Its Last Coal-Fired Power Plant In Pennsylvania, And The State’s Largest
DEP Offering Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebates Of Up To $2,000
The Department of Environmental Protection Tuesday announced it is offering rebates up to

$2,000 for Pennsylvania residents who purchase alternative fuel vehicles. (f ormal notice)
These first-come, first-served ebates are available depending on the type of vehicle
purchased. Eligible vehicles are plug-in hybrid, plug-in electric, natural gas, propane, and
hydrogen fuel cell vehicles.
“Since the program’s inception, DEP has awarded more than 3,500 rebates to
Pennsylvania residents who made the switch to alternative fuel vehicles,” said DEP Secretary
Patrick McDonnell. “Switching to an alternative fuel vehicle can save on fuel costs for the
owners, and improve air quality in Pennsylvania.”
To be eligible for a rebate, a new alternative fuel vehicle (AFV) must have a
manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $60,000 or less and must have an odometer reading of
less than 500 miles.
One-time preowned AFVs with 75,000 miles or less and a true market value of $50,000
or less are also eligible for a $750 rebate. Leased vehicles are also now eligible for rebates, a
change that allows additional flexibility for residents.
An additional rebate of $500 for pre-owned vehicles is available to residents with
household income below 200 percent of the federal income poverty level.
Rebates will be awarded in the order that the request forms and required documentation
are received and approved, not the date a vehicle was purchased. Consumers may submit
applications up to six months after the date of purchase.
Consumers should be aware that funds may be depleted before their rebate application
can be processed.
Flexible fuel, non-plug-in hybrid and biodiesel vehicles are not eligible. Businesses are
not eligible to receive rebates through this program. Rebates issued as a part of this program are
taxable income and will result in the issuance of a 1099 form for the taxable year in which the
rebate was received.
For program guidelines, application instructions, and an up-to-date listing of rebate
availability, visit DEP’s Alternative Fuel Incentive Rebates webpage.
Alternative Fuels Grants
DEP is also accepting applications for Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants for innovative,
37
advanced fuel, and vehicle technology projects that will result in cleaner advanced alternative
transportation within the Commonwealth.
The deadline for these grants is December 14. Click Here for more.
Driving PA Forward
Funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency settlement with Volkswagen, DEP
will also be offering grant and rebate programs to replace older diesel engines to cut nitrogen
oxide and other emissions under the Driving PA Forward Program.
Click Here for more general information and Click Here to watch for details.
NewsClips:
Rebates Available From DEP On Alternative Fuel Vehicles
Related Stories:
DEP Now Accepting Applications For $5 Million In Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants
Driving PA Forward Grant/Rebate Program To Replace Older Diesel Engines, Cut Nitrogen
Oxide Emissions
Sustainable Pittsburgh Hosting Healthy Products, Responsible Waste Management, Water

Systems Workshops In Sept.
Sustainable Pittsburgh is hosting several informative

workshops the same week as the Living Product
Expo in Pittsburgh--
-- September 11-13: Living Product Expo: Healthy
Products for Everyone Hosted by the International
Living Future Institute at the David L. Lawrence
Convention Center, the 3- day Expo brings together
leading minds in the design and manufacturing
industries to lead the revolution toward healthy and
beautiful spaces for everyone.
-- September 12: Sustainable Pittsburgh Presents Responsible Waste Management: Hosted at
PNC Park, with an optional tour to follow of the Pirates’ cleaning operations, this program pulls
back the curtain on waste and recycling options for businesses, organizations, and municipalities
located in southwestern PA.
-- September 13: Sustainable Pittsburgh Challenge Workshop: Water Systems and Regional
Resilience: Taking place at the Energy Innovation Center, this workshop addresses the reality of
the region’s aging water infrastructure and explores what multiple stakeholders are doing to
protect and repair Pittsburgh’s water resources.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Sustainable
Pittsburgh website. Click Here to sign up for regular updates. Like them on Facebook, Follow
them on Twitter. Click Here to support their work.
To learn more about green innovation in the Pittsburgh Region, visit the Pittsburgh Green
Story website.
Related Story:
38
DCNR, The Conservation Fund Celebrate Adding 560 Acres To Michaux State Forest In
Adams County
On Monday, at the Strawberry Hill Nature Preserve,

the Department of Conservation and Natural
Resources and The Conservation Fund, held a
public event to celebrate the recent addition of 560
acres to Michaux State Forest in Adams County.
For more than 25 years, the Strawberry Hill
Nature Preserve has connected the community to the
natural world by teaching, inspiring, and promoting
stewardship of the environment.
As the only nonprofit environmental
education center in Adams County, the Preserve has interpreted its open space as a living
classroom for people of all ages, while maintaining the health of the Swamp Creek and Middle
Creek Watersheds.
In June 2018, Strawberry Hill Nature Preserve donated 80 acres and sold an additional
480 acres to ensure habitat protection, recreational access and permanent stewardship of the
Swamp Creek watershed.
The Conservation Fund provided transactional support. Strawberry Hill will use the
proceeds from the sale to support environmental education programing at its 30-acre campus.
“Strawberry Hill and our community will benefit knowing the watersheds, forest and
wildlife are protected by public ownership through this partnership with DCNR,” said Kara
Ferraro, Executive Director of Strawberry Hill Nature Preserve. “This allows our organization to
focus energy and resources on expanding our environmental education programs while
connecting people to the South Mountain Region.”
The land, including 10 miles of existing trails, will be managed as part of Michaux State
Forest, connecting the forest’s northern and southern sections and providing a southern gateway
to visitors.
“This addition will enhance the Michaux State Forest’s contiguous wildlife corridor that
encompasses nearly 86,000 acres in Southcentral Pennsylvania, and provides continued
protection for the headwaters of the recently designated Exceptional Value stream, Swamp
Creek,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said. “The department intends to carry on the
legacy of forest stewardship, watershed protection and environmental education on this land.”
Dunn added that with the Strawberry Hill acquisition, the Wolf Administration is close to
meeting a goal of conserving 100,000 acres of land. Michaux State Forest is part of the South
Mountain Partnership Conservation Landscape Initiative, which is working to promote economic
growth and revitalize local communities based on the abundance of recreational, agriculture and
heritage tourism opportunities in Adams, Cumberland, Franklin and York counties.
“It’s inspiring to see the conservation and community benefits that the devoted staff and
volunteers of the Strawberry Hill Nature Preserve have provided over the years,” said Kyle
Shenk, Pennsylvania State Director for The Conservation Fund. “We are honored to help the
Preserve and the DCNR ensure the permanent protection of this land. As a result, students,
39
hikers, birders, families, and outdoor lovers can continue to enjoy and recreate here for
generations to come.”
The conservation effort was made possible with an $837,000 grant from DCNR’s
Community Conservation Partnerships Program and funding from NRG Energy and the
Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds.
“At NRG, we believe that delivering results includes providing support and service to the
communities where our customer and employees live and work,” said Mike Starck, VP and
General Manager of NRG Retail East division. “We’re pleased to support the protection of this
beloved landscape in the South Mountain region and Strawberry Hill Nature Preserve’s unique
and engaging educational programming for the community.”
“The Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds is proud to see this project come to
fruition,” said the Foundation’s Executive Director, R. John Dawes. “The Board and staff are
keenly aware that what happens on our land results in improved or degraded water quality. The
size of this addition to conserved land in the state means that water quality will be improved and
that generation yet to come will have the opportunity to hike, bird watch, and enjoy this habitat.
This public/private partnership demonstrates the best of our instincts to look out for one another
and our quality of life. This guarantee of ecosystem function in the future is core to the work and
commitment of FPW.”
For more information on state parks and forests and recreation in Pennsylvania, visit
DCNR’s website, Click Here to sign up for the Resource newsletter, Visit the Good Natured
DCNR Blog, Click Here for upcoming events, Click Here to hook up with DCNR on other
social media-- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.
NewsClips:
Public Invited To Provide Input On Tiadaghton State Forest Sept. 12
Michaux State Forest Grows With Help Of Strawberry Hill
AP: Logging Competition At Crawford County Fair Makes The Cut
Crable: Penn State Football Fans From Lancaster Asked To Look For Spotted Lanternfly
East Stroudsburg University, Brodhead Watershed Assn. Tree Museum Tour/Hike Sept.
23 In Monroe County
The Brodhead Watershed Association and East

Stroudsburg University Assistant Professor Emily
Rollinson will host a tour of the arboretum and
trees on the ESU campus on September 23 in
Stroudsburg, Monroe County starting at 10:00 a.m.
An arboretum is a botanical garden devoted to
trees-- a sort of living museum. Over the years,
many kinds of trees have been planted and grown
to maturity at ESU, both native and exotically
non-native.
There is an import from Europe, an enormous copper beech. Then a fluttery crown of a
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gingko, an import from Asia, whose pedigree reaches back 270 million years in the fossil record.
Next comes a small native shadblow, one of the first spring bloomers to brighten our forests in
eastern Pennsylvania.
Rollinson, an assistant professor of biology, will show participants the finer points of the
arboretum. Participants will also get a printed guide, “Arboretum Guide: The Trees of the ESU
Campus,” which maps where trees of interest are located throughout the campus, identifies them
and highlights interesting facts and characteristics of each one.
Registered hikers will receive a copy of the “Arboretum Guide.”
One large tree can lift as much as 100 gallons of water a day out of the ground, extract
the nutrients it needs and then “breathe” the rest into the air. Climate scientists have found that as
trees cycle water out of the ground and into the air, they actually cool the earth’s surface--
gorgeous, green, natural air conditioners.
Join hike leader Carol Hillestad for this easy hike of about 1.5 miles. Dr. Emily Rollinson
will join the hike and share information about the arboretum.
This program is free, but registration is required. Call 570-839-1120 or 570-629-2727 or
send email to: info@brodheadwatershed.org to register.
For information about this and other hikes in the free Get Outdoors Poconos series. The
hike series is administered by Brodhead Watershed Association and supported by a grant from
the William Penn Foundation.
For more information on programs, initiatives, other upcoming events and how you can
become involved, visit the Brodhead Watershed Association website.
NewsClips:
Related Story:
Brodhead Watershed Assn What's Under That Log? Children’s Program Sept. 15 In Monroe
County
Brodhead Watershed Assn What's Under That Log? Children’s Program Sept. 15 In
Monroe County
The Brodhead Watershed Association will host another

in its Water Wiser Kids called What's Under That Log?
on September 15 at the Seven Pines Natural Area in
Cresco, Monroe County.
Turn over a log and you’ll always find
something interesting. Earthworms or ant eggs, beetles
or mushrooms, or one of the beautiful treasures of the
Poconos: a salamander. The Pocono area boasts one of
the greatest diversities of salamanders on Earth.
41
Participants will explore Seven Pines and walk an easy trail into Ice Lake Natural Area,
turning over rocks and logs along the path in hopes of finding natural treasures. What will you
find?
Darryl and Jackie Speicher of Pocono Avian Research Center will present this outdoor
exploration event for children and their families.
Wear sturdy shoes and dress to be outside. If you wish, bring a picnic supper to enjoy
before or after the program.
The program is free, but registration is required. Call 570-839-1120 or send email to:
info@brodheadwatershed.org to register.
This event is part of the Water Wiser Kids Series sponsored by Brodhead Watershed
Association, funded by a Dr. Claus Jordan Endowment Grant from Lehigh Valley Health
Network Pocono Foundation.
For more information on programs, initiatives, other upcoming events and how you can
become involved, visit the Brodhead Watershed Association website.
NewsClips:
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center Ready To Welcome Public After 2-Year Closure
Learn To Make More Environmentally-Conscious Choices At Sept. 9 Greenfest Philly
Recent High School Grads Awarded Conservation Scholarships From Lackawanna County
Student Campers Learn About Fish, Snakes, Wetlands And More In Clinton County
Related Story:
East Stroudsburg University, Brodhead Watershed Assn. Tree Museum Tour/Hike Sept. 23 In
Monroe County
Lacawac Sanctuary Highlights Education, Other Programs In September In Wayne

County
The Lacawac Sanctuary and Biological Field Station in

Wayne County Tuesday highlighted upcoming education
and other programs in September--
-- September 1: Audubon Hike
-- September 20: Science Of Brewing Craft Beer Dinner
-- September 22: Romping Radishes On The Run: Beaver
Dance
-- September 29: Mushroom Hike (photo)
To register for these programs call 570-689-9494 or
send an email to: info@lacawac.org.
For more information on programs, initiatives and other upcoming events, visit the
Lacawac Sanctuary website. Click Here to sign up for regular updates (right panel). Follow on
Twitter. Like on Facebook. Click Here to support their work.
DCNR Blog: Wild About Native Trout! Commitment To PA’s State Fish
42
Is there a more stunning fish than the native
brook trout? Often, equally as stunning, are
the places they call home. With many wild
trout streams in our state forests and parks,
there is much that DCNR does to help
conserve Pennsylvania’s beautiful state fish.
Brook trout (Salvelinus fontinalis) are
primarily found within mountain stream
habitats throughout Pennsylvania and are
relatively short-lived, averaging about three
years. Exceptionally large fish encountered in pools or larger stream habitats may live upwards
of four to six years!
They are members of the char subgroup of the salmon family, which also includes: Lake
trout; Arctic char; Bull trout; and Dolly varden.
Char are distinguished from other trout and salmon species by the: Absence of teeth in
the roof of the mouth; Presence of light colored spots on a dark-colored body; Smaller scales;
and Differences in skeletal structure.
Connection To Water Quality, Forests
Also known by local names such as native trout, natives, brookie, and speckled trout, the
scientific epithet fontinalis means “living in springs.”
Brook trout require cooler water than non-native brown and rainbow trout, and need
exceptionally clean water, too. Forested headwater streams that are shaded by large hemlock
trees and mountain laurel provide the clean, cold waters these trout need to thrive.
Commitment To Conserving Native Brook Trout
One of the ways DCNR is working to ensure a secure future for the fish is through its
Bureau of Forestry’s new Aquatic Resource Management Plan (PDF), which includes best
practices for:
-- Marcellus water quality monitoring;
-- Guidance for dirt and gravel road projects around high-quality streams; and
-- Acid mine drainage treatments to improve water quality.
DCNR has also committed to better stream passages in our parks and forests by
implementing research findings on the best designs for bridge culverts so that the movement of
trout and other aquatic life is not constrained.
Additionally, DCNR has adopted the North Atlantic Aquatic Connectivity
Collaborative’s protocol for assessing existing stream crossings for aquatic organism passage
(AOP) and has developed stream crossing best management practices to ensure new and
replacement crossings provide for AOP.
DCNR Projects To Support The State Fish
Habitat improvement projects have taken place in numerous locations, improving stream
flows and providing critical habitat for wild trout. This work includes the addition of: Plunge
pools; Log and cross vanes; J-hooks; and Undercut banks.
One such project in Michaux State Forest took place on Conococheague Creek.
“It was amazing how quickly the brook trout found the deeper pools,” said District
Forester Roy Brubaker. “The day after the work was completed, we walked along the creek and
43
could already see little schools of trout hanging out right where they were supposed to be.”
In addition, DCNR’s riparian forest buffer plantings have resulted in improved water
quality and cooler stream temperatures benefitting wild trout found in some of these waters. A
riparian buffer is a zone of trees and vegetation between water and an open, upland area.
They shade the water, stabilize banks, and intercept surface runoff. Studies show that
water temperature is 10 degrees cooler in streams that are lined with buffers which can make all
the difference in brook trout survival.
Need To Conserve Brook Trout, Habitat
The DCNR Bureau of Forestry’s Brook Trout Conservation Plan (PDF) provides the
framework for conserving brook trout and their associated habitat on Pennsylvania’s state forest
land.
The bureau, through sound ecosystem management, maintains a healthy, viable forest
that’s rich in biodiversity. However, some species may need specific strategies for long-term
survival, such as keystone species or those whose populations are in decline.
Prioritizing conservation of brook trout on Pennsylvania’s state forest lands is consistent
with conservation efforts throughout its native range in the eastern U.S., as evidenced by the
Eastern Brook Trout Joint Venture, as well as the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission’s
listing of the brook trout in its State Wildlife Action Plan as a species of greatest conservation
need.
Impacts Of A Changing Climate
A changing climate will present wild trout with even greater challenges. As part of
DCNR’s Climate Change Adaptation Plan (PDF), one action item is to use the Bureau of
Forestry’s Riparian Buffer Guidelines and the Brook Trout Conservation Plan to maintain the
cold-water habitat critical to brook trout survival.
We are fortunate to have an abundance of wild brook trout across the state, and DCNR
will continue to work hard to ensure they keep thriving in our state park and forest waters.
Learn more about DCNR’s efforts to manage healthy bodies of water by reading another
Good Natured blog article, as well as exploring our water conservation resources.
For more information on state parks and forests and recreation in Pennsylvania, visit
DCNR’s website, Click Here to sign up for the Resource newsletter, Visit the Good Natured
DCNR Blog, Click Here for upcoming events, Click Here to hook up with DCNR on other
social media-- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.
NewsClips:
Frye: Summertime Bluegills A Family-Friendly Outdoor Battler
Kummer: What Fish Live In The Schuylkill, Which Are Safe To Eat?
(Reprinted from DCNR’s Good Natured Blog. )

Hawk Mountain Celebrates Vulture Awareness, Raptor Conservation Education Sept. 1
September 1 will be an exciting day as Hawk Mountain

Sanctuary in Berks County hosts a celebration for the
annual International Vulture Awareness Day and begins its
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weekend programs.
The International Vulture Awareness Day event will begin at 12 pm and will include a
live vulture program, educational crafts and activities for children, and information on the
Sanctuary’s long-term research on the social scavenging raptor.
Visitors are encouraged to head to the trails in search of a vulture soaring low over the
lookouts.
On the way, visitors can take the Silhouette Trail, which features a trail-side gallery of
life-size, in-flight silhouettes of 7 of the world’s 22 species of vultures and condors, including
four New World species (Turkey Vulture, Black Vulture, Andean Condor, and California
Condor) and three Old World species (Hooded Vulture, Griffon Vulture, and Egyptian Vulture).
A brochure describing these will be available at the trail entrance.
In addition to the celebration event on Saturday, the Sanctuary’s fun and educational
weekend programming will kick off.
This year’s Autumn Weekend Programs will run each Saturday and Sunday through
November 4. The programs are also offered on Labor Day and Columbus Day. Admission is free
for members or with trail fee.
Programs offered are Hawk Mountain’s signature live raptor program, Raptors Up Close,
along with Trapping and Tracking, Binoculars Basics, and Name That Raptor. These available
programs cover a variety of raptor observation basics and offer guests a unique and beneficial
education opportunity while visiting the Sanctuary.
Visitors will also have the chance to meet the new class of international trainees and learn
from them and the staff the tools and techniques used at Hawk Mountain. For more details on the
autumn programs and their schedule, visit the Weekend Programs webpage.
For information regarding these programs or any other events offered at Hawk Mountain,
visit the Events webpage.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the Hawk
Mountain Sanctuary website or call 610-756-6961. Click Here to sign up for regular updates
from the Sanctuary, Like them on Facebook, Follow on Twitter, visit them on Flickr, be part of
their Google+ Circle and visit their YouTube Channel. Click Here to support Hawk Mountain.
NewsClip:
Red-Necked Phalarope Among Rare Visitors Spotted At Presque Isle
Kelly Stagen, of Lords Valley, a member of the Pike County

Conservation District Board of Directors, has been named Secretary
of the PA Association of Conservation Districts.
Stagen, an artist and conservationist, also serves as Northeast
Region Director for PACD and is an Alternate Delegate for the
National Association of Conservation Districts. Since 2017, she has
served as Executive Director of the Hemlock Farms Conservancy.
Stagen volunteers for PCCD’s Source Water Quality
Monitoring Program, and is Chair of Pike County's Quality
Assurance Board for the Dirt, Gravel and Low Volume Roads
45
Program.
She is an Art Teacher and Day Camp Supervisor in the Hemlock Farms Community
Association Recreation Department. Previously, Stagen taught art at Notre Dame Elementary
School, in Stroudsburg, PA, and St. Vincent School, in Honesdale, PA.
Since 1991 Stagen has been a Liturgical Artist at St. Vincent de Paul Church, in
Dingmans Ferry, PA.
She resides in Hemlock Farms with her husband, John.
Related Stories:
(Stay informed on PA Association of Conservation Districts activities. Click Here to sign up for
the Front Page eNewsletter.)
In Memoriam: Susan Woods, State Government Media Relations Professional
Susan Woods (61) of Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County

passed away on August 21 at Carolyn’s House and served as
Auditor General Eugene DePasquale Press Secretary at the
time of her death.
Susan had more than 25 years of experience in media
and public relations, with particular emphasis in state
government public affairs and advocacy issue outreach.
She started working for the state of Pennsylvania as an
information specialist in 1985 for the Department of
Environmental Resources.
She went on to work as a Special Assistant and Deputy Press Secretary for Gov. Bob
Casey. Susan also worked as Deputy Director of Communications for Gov. Ed Rendell.
From 1996 to 2003, Susan worked for the State of Maryland as the Director of
Communications for the Department of the Environment and the Director of Public Events for
Gov. Parris Glendening.
She returned to Pennsylvania to work for Auditor General DePasquale.
“I got to know Susan when she worked for DER in 1985 when I was in the DER Office
of Legislative Affairs,” said David E. Hess, former Secretary of DEP. “She was always the
professional and worked hard at her job. She also got a kick out of being spokesperson, at times,
for DER’s Bureau of Forestry. Her humor and professionalism will be missed.”
All are welcome to join Susan’s friends at her Celebration of Life service at 1:00 p.m. at
the State Capitol East Wing on September 8. Please use the East Wing entrance. Cremation was
private.
Click Here to read her full obituary.
Environmental NewsClips - All Topics

46
Here are NewsClips from around the state on all environmental topics, including General
Environment, Budget, Marcellus Shale, Watershed Protection and much more.
The latest environmental NewsClips and news is available at the PA Environment Digest Daily
Blog, Twitter Feed and add PaEnviroDigest Google+ to your Circle.

Air
Plant
Op-Ed: To Keep Enjoying Outdoor Spaces, Philly Air Quality Needs Improvement - Joe Minott
Alternative Fuels
Awards & Recognition
Susquehanna RiverKeepers Celebrate The Loyalsock Creek At Worlds End State Park
Schuylkill County Conservation District Honors Conservationists
Biodiversity/Invasive Species
Goats Going To Irwin To Eat Overgrowth
Budget
Chesapeake Bay
Click Here to subscribe to the free Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here to support the Chesapeake Bay Journal
Follow Chesapeake Bay Journal On Twitter
Like Chesapeake Bay Journal On Facebook
Citizen Action
10 Minutes With Amanda Blaine: PA Master Watershed Steward In Northeast
Climate
47
Cusick: Study: Sea Level Rise Already Hurting Coastal Real Estate Prices
EPA Employees Defy Agency, Rally For Climate Action In Philadelphia
Local Climate Efforts Won’t Be Enough To Undo Trump’s Inaction, Study Says
Moody’s: Trump’s Climate Plan Slows Coal’s Decline, But Not Forever
Coal Mining
Plant
Local Climate Efforts Won’t Be Enough To Undo Trump’s Inaction, Study Says
Trump To Reopen Another EPA Coal Power Plant Air Pollution Rule With Changes
Op-Ed: Trump Plan Seeks New Emissions Technologies To Boost Coal
Moody’s: Trump’s Climate Plan Slows Coal’s Decline, But Not Forever
Op-Ed: America Is Literally Killing For Coal
Coastal Zone
Cusick: Study: Sea Level Rise Already Hurting Coastal Real Estate Prices
Delaware River
Drinking Water
Hurdle: Advocates Say Federal PFAS Bills Would Tighten Federal Control Over Chemicals
Pittsburgh Water Authority Free Water Dries Up For City Of Pittsburgh, Zoo, Phipps
PUC Sets Public Hearings On Pittsburgh Water Authority Rate Increase Proposal
1st Phase Of Pittsburgh Drinking Water Reservoir Repair Work Is Complete
McKelvey: Steelton Approves Sale Of Water Utility To PA American Water
Economic Development
Toomey: Shell Ethane Plant Project Could Be Delayed By Trump Tariffs
Frazier: Trump Lifts Steel Quota Toomey Said Could Hurt Shell’s Ethane Cracker
Shell Polymers’ $250K Grant To Boost Plastics Education At Penn College
48
Pipeline Training Course In Armstrong County Opens Door To New Careers
Education
Shaver’s Creek Environmental Ed Center Ready To Welcome Public After 2-Year Closure
Learn To Make More Environmentally-Conscious Choices At Sept. 9 Greenfest Philly
Student Campers Learn About Fish, Snakes, Wetlands And More In Clinton County
Emergency Response
Editorial: Volunteer Firefighters Worth Their Weight In Gold
Energy
PPL Cutting Allentown Information Tech Jobs
Maykuth: PECO To Pass Along Trump Tax Refund As A $30 Bill Credit
Landfill
Op-Ed: America Is Literally Killing For Coal
Energy Conservation
Bloomfield Company Could Save City Of Pittsburgh $6.3M In Energy Costs
Farming
EHB Challenges Plans For Huge Franklin County Egg Farm
Flooding
Heavy Rain Causing Flash Flooding In Berks, Lebanon Counties
Heavy Rains Cause Severe Flooding Near Manheim, Mount Joy; Multiple Rescues
PennLive.com: Flooding In Lancaster County - Photos
Flash Floods Deluge Parts Of York County
AP: Unusually Heavy Rain In Central PA Closes Roads
Schuylkill County Hit With Another Round Of Flash Flooding
PennDOT Closes Numerous Roads Due To Flooding In Central PA
Delaware County Offering Assistance For Residents Affected By Flooding
York County Residents Asked To Report July, August Flood, Storm Damage
49
Luzerne County Receives Bids For Ice Jam Damage Repairs At River Common
Forests
Geology
Kris Carter Rocks The Regional Energy Scene As A State Geologist
Green Infrastructure
Land Conservation
A Fight Over A Few Acres Could Destroy One Of Delaware County’s Last Big Open Spaces
Wildlands Conservancy Closed On Protecting 500 Acres On Blue Mountain
Land Recycling
Brownfield Restoration Project Eyed For Lycoming County
Oil & Gas
DEP Report: State Had Record Year For Natural Gas Production In 2017
Toomey: Shell Ethane Plant Project Could Be Delayed By Trump Tariffs
Frazier: Trump Lifts Steel Quota Toomey Said Could Hurt Shell’s Ethane Cracker
Shell Polymers’ $250K Grant To Boost Plastics Education At Penn College
Peters Twp OKs 66-Acre Gas Lease Agreement With Range Resources
Criminal Charges Filed Against Fmr Worley & Obetz Executives
Fmr Worley & Obetz Executives Face Criminal Charges
Marcellus Shale Contributing To Recent Growth In U.S. Natural Gas Production
Op-Ed: Common Ground For PA: Natural Gas Is Delivering Results For Citizens
How America’s “Most Reckless” Billionaire Created The Fracking Boom
Op-Ed: Fracking 10 Years Later: Its Benefits Far Outweigh Its Risks
PennEnergy Offers $600M For Bankrupt Rex Energy
FERC Looks To Speed Up A Dozen Natural Gas Export Approvals
Sisk: Relief At The Gasoline Pump Expected For Drivers In September
Pipelines
Hurdle: Report: Risk Assessment Quantifies Hazards From Mariner East Pipelines In Chester,
Delaware Counties
50
Sen. Dinniman: Faulty Sections Of Mariner East Pipeline Detected
Hurdle: 3 Arrested At Mariner East 2 Pipeline Protest Near Delaware County School
Op-Ed: Lack Of Pipeline Safety Info Puts Schools, Students At Risk- Sen. Dinniman
Crable: Atlantic Sunrise Pipeline Could Begin Moving Gas Sept. 10
Atlantic Sunrise Pipeline Slightly Delayed, Ready By Sept. 10
Pipeline Training Course In Armstrong County Opens Door To New Careers
Recreation
Susquehanna RiverKeepers Celebrate The Loyalsock Creek At Worlds End State Park
Volunteers Adding Mountain Bike Trails At Ohiopyle State Park
Frye: Hammock Camping Offers A New Twist On Familiar Adventures
New Park Unveiled In Erie’s West Bayfront
Volunteers Build Benches, More At MLK Park In York
Walking The Walk Along Philly’s New Rail Park
YMCA To Build Nearly $1M Park, Playground, Splash Pad In Carbondale
Philly Naked Bike Ride Returns For 10th Year Sept. 8
Aug. 31 Take Five Fridays With Pam, PA Parks & Forests Foundation
Schneck: How Many National Park Sites In PA Have You Visited?
Recycling/Waste
Landfill
Renewable Energy
Stormwater
Susquehanna River
Who Owns The Susquehanna River Islands?
Watershed Protection
51
10 Minutes With Amanda Blaine: PA Master Watershed Steward In Northeast
Click Here to subscribe to the Chesapeake Bay Journal
Follow Chesapeake Bay Journal On Twitter
Like Chesapeake Bay Journal On Facebook
Wildlife
Wildlife Pittsburgh: Coyote, Deer And Bears: Oh My!
Banding Together To Track Middle Creek Wildlife Area’s Ducks
Gray Fox Bites Pedestrian In Shippensburg
Frye: PA Elk Hunting Season Could See Changes
Crable: Customers Find 3-Foot Python At New Holland Scheetz
Schneck: Central PA Box Turtle At Least 70 Years Old
Red-Necked Phalarope Among Rare Visitors Spotted At Presque Isle
Crable: Respected Lancaster Game Warden To Step Down
Frye: Summertime Bluegills A Family-Friendly Outdoor Battler
Kummer: What Fish Live In The Schuylkill, Which Are Safe To Eat?
Thieves Swipe Over 7,000 Live Bugs, Other Critters From Philly Museum
West Nile/Zika Virus/Lyme Disease
DEP Advises Residents To Be Proactive To Combat West Nile Virus
Hurricanes
AP: Wolf Makes 2-Day Trip To Visit Hurricane-Ravaged Puerto Rico
Murphy: Wolf Heading To Puerto Rico To Survey Remaining Hurricane Damage, Build Ties
Trump Touts Fantastic Job In Puerto Rico, Where Maria Killed Nearly 3,000
Hurricane’s Death Toll In Puerto Rico Put At Nearly 3,000
Power Is Restored In Puerto Rico, But Work On Stronger Grid Yet To Begin
Puerto Rico: What Happened In The Dark
Atlantic Has Been Quiet This Hurricane Season, Too Quiet
Buckle Up, The Atlantic Hurricane Season Is Heating Up
Click Here For This Week's Allegheny Front Radio Program
Public Participation Opportunities/Calendar Of Events
This section lists House and Senate Committee meetings, DEP and other public hearings and
meetings and other interesting environmental events.
NEW means new from last week. Go to the online Calendar webpage for updates.
Note: DEP published the 2018 meeting schedules for its advisory committees and boards.
52
September 1-- NEW. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary. Vulture Awareness, Raptor Conservation
Education Celebration. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Berks County.
September 4-- CANCELED. DEP Storage Tank Advisory Committee meeting. The next
scheduled meeting is December 5. DEP Contact: Kris Shiffer 717-772-5809 or send email to:
kshiffer@pa.gov. (f ormal notice)
September 4-- Agenda Posted. DEP Board Of Coal Mine Safety meeting. DEP Cambria Office,
286 Industrial Park Road, Ebensburg. 10:00. DEP Contact: Peggy Scheloske 724-404-3143 or
send email to: mscheloske@pa.gov.
September 5-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. North Park Rose Barn,
Allegheny County. 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
September 5-- Environmental Defense Fund Webinar: Mars, Inc., Our Sustainability Journey.
2:30 to 3:00.
September 6-- Sustainable Business Network Of Greater Philadelphia. Best Practice Forum:
Clean Energy Business Pioneers. West Laurel Hill Cemetery, 225 Belmont Avenue, Bala
Cynwyd, Montgomery County. 6:00 to 9:00.
September 6-9-- Registration Open. Delaware Highlands Conservancy. Educational Retreat For
Women Forest Landowners. Highlights Workshop Facility in Boyd’s Mill, Milanville, Wayne
County.
September 7-- Location Added. Susquehanna River Basin Commission business meeting.
DoubleTree by Hilton Binghamton, North Riverside Room, 225 Water Street, Binghamton, New
York. 9:00. Click Here for more.
September 8-- PA Resources Council. ReuseFest For Gently Used Items. UPMC St. Margaret
parking lot, 815 Freeport Road, Pittsburgh. 10:00 to 2:00.
September 8-- French Creek Valley Conservancy. French Creek Watershed Cleanup.
Cochranton County Fair Grounds, 125 Pearl Street, Cochranton, Crawford County.
September 8- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Ross Township

Community Center, Allegheny County. 12:30 to 2:00.
September 10-- NEW. PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering Committee meeting.
Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 1:00. Click Here to register to join the meeting by webinar.
Participants also need to call in 1-650-479-3208, PASSCODE 641 463 243. Click Here for
more.
September 11-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Phipps Garden
53
Center in Mellon Park, Allegheny County. 7:00 to 8:30 p.m.
September 12-- DEP Sewage Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:30. DEP Contact: Janice Vollero, 717-772-5157, jvollero@pa.gov.
September 12-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: Tiadaghton State Forest
District, Wheeland Center, 1201 Locust St., Jersey Shore, Lycoming County. 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Click Here for more.
September 12-- Get Outdoors PA. GOPA Exchange - Lancaster. Climbers Run Nature
Preserve, 226 Frogtown Road, Pequea. 8:30 to 2:30.
September 13-- Delaware River Basin Commission Meeting. RiverWinds Community Center,
1000 RiverWinds Drive, Thorofare, New Jersey. 10:30. (f ormal notice)
September 13-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Sewickley Public
Library, Allegheny County. 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
September 15-- NEW. Brodhead Watershed Association. Water Wiser Kids - What’s Under
That Log? Program. Seven Pines Natural Area, Cresco, Monroe County.
September 15-- NEW. Partnership For The Delaware Estuary. PA Coast Day - Delaware River
Festival. Penn’s Landing in Philadelphia and the Camden Adventure Aquarium. 10:00 to 4:00.
September 16-- Harrisburg Area Bicycle Club. Three Creek Century Ride To Benefit American
Cancer Society. Starting at Penn Township Fire Department, 1750 Pine Road, Newville,
Cumberland County.
September 17-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Mt. Lebanon Public
September 17-19-- 11th Eastern Native Grass Symposium. Erie Bayfront Convention Center.
September 18-- Senate Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee holds a
hearing on Senate Bill 1131 (Costa-D-Allegheny) establishing the Landslide Insurance and
Assistance Program (sponsor summary). Millvale Community Center, 416 Lincoln Avenue,
Pittsburgh. 10:00.
September 18-- Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.
9:00. DEP Contact: Laura Edinger, 717-772-3277, ledinger@pa.gov. (formal notice)
September 18-- DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.
10:00. DEP Contact: Neil Bakshi, DEP Policy Office, nebakshi@pa.gov.
September 18-- Public Utility Commission Transource Transmission Line Proposal Franklin
54
County. New Franklin Volunteer Fire Department Social Hall, 3444 Wayne Road,
Chambersburg. 1:00 and 6:00.
September 18-- Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape. 2018 Laurel Highlands Trail
Summit. Ebensburg, Cambria County. 8:30 to 4:00.
September 18-- Get Outdoors PA. GOPA Exchange - Danville. Montour Preserve, 700
Preserve Road, Danville. 8:30 to 2:30.
September 18-- NEW. PA Resources Council. Not In Philly Meet-Up To Talk Trash & Combat
Litter Event. Pipeline Philadelphia, Graham Building, Dilworth Park, 30 S 15th Street, 15th
Floor, Philadelphia. 5:30 to 7:00.
September 18-19-- PA Association Of State Floodplain Managers Annual Conference. Central
Hotel & Conference Center, Harrisburg.
September 18-20-- Mid-Atlantic Chapter International Erosion Control Association. 25th

Annual Conference, Workshop and Trade Show. Radisson Hotel, Camp Hill, Cumberland
County.
September 19- DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 9:30. DEP Contact: Diane Wilson, 717-787-3730, diawilson@pa.gov. (f ormal
notice)
September 19-- NEW. Stroud Water Research Center. Citizen Scientists World Water
Monitoring Day Celebration. Stroud Center, 970 Spencer Road in Avondale, Chester County.
4:30 to 8:00.
September 19-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. South Park Home
Economics Building, Allegheny County. 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.
September 20-- DEP Solid Waste Advisory Committee & Recycling Funding Advisory
Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Laura Henry
717-772-5713 or send email to: lahenry@pa.gov.
September 20-- Public Utility Commission Transource Transmission Line Proposal York
County. Airville Volunteer Fire Department, 3576 Delta Road, Airville. 1:00 and 6:00.
September 20-- NEW. Green Building Alliance. Honoring 25 Western PA Green Building
Projects - Emerald Evening Gala. Carnegie Science Center’s PointView Hall, Pittsburgh.
September 20-- NEW. Penn State Extension: Update On Shale Gas Rule Of Capture Court
Decision Webinar. 1:00 to 2:00.
September 21-- Schuylkill Action Network. 15th Anniversary Schuylkill Action Network Bus
55
Tour-Schuylkill & Berks Counties. 8:30 to 4:30.
September 22-- Joint meeting of DEP Recycling Fund Advisory Committee and Solid Waste
Advisory Committee. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Laura Henry,
717-772-5713, lahenry@pa.gov.
September 22-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Castle Shannon
Library, Allegheny County. 10:30 to Noon.
September 22-- PA Resources Council. Household Chemical Collection Event. South Park,
Allegheny County. 9:00 to 1:00.
September 22-- Westmoreland Land Trust. 10th Anniversary Celebration - Wide Open Spaces
Party. Land Trust’s barn headquarters, 218 Donohoe Road, Greensburg. 4:30 to 7:30.
September 23-- Audubon Society of Western PA. Backyard Habitat Trees and Shrubs,
Supporting Wildlife In Winter Workshop. Beechwood Farms Nature Reserve, 614 Dorseyville
Road, Pittsburgh. 10:00.
September 23-- NEW. Brodhead Watershed Association. East Stroudsburg University Tree
Museum Tour/Hike. Monroe County.
September 25-- PA Resources Council. Recycling Awareness Workshop. Mt. Lebanon Public
September 25-26-- Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed. 2018 Delaware River
Watershed Forum. Cape May, NJ.
September 26-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: William Penn Forest District [
LTBD ] Southeast PA. Click Here for more.
September 28-- DEP Low-Level Waste Advisory Committee meeting Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Rich Janati, 717-787-2147, rjanati@pa.gov.
September 28-- Brodhead Watershed Association. Members & Friends Celebration, Awards
Dinner. Camelback Resort’s Aquatopia in Tannersville, Monroe County.
September 29-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Construction

Junction, Point Breeze, Allegheny County. 11:00 to 12:30.
September 29-- PA CleanWays, Vector Control Of Cumberland County Tire Collection Event.
East Pennsboro Township Public Works, 645 Tower Road in Enola. 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
NOTE: Pre-registration, Prepayment are requested.
September 29-- Gifford Pinchot’s Grey Towers. Free Ice Cream, Magic & Open House.
56
Milford, Pike County. 11:00 to 4:00.
October 1-2-- 2018 Eastern PA Greenways & Trails Summit. SteelStacks, 101 Founders Way in
Bethlehem.
October 1-3-- Engineers’ Society of Western PA. PA Brownfield Conference. Sands Bethlehem
Casino, Bethlehem.
October 3-- PA Chamber Fall Regional Environmental Conference In Harrisburg.
October 5-- NEW. Berks Conservation District Farm Conservation Tour. Deep Roots Valley
Farm, 1047 Irish Creek Creek Road, Mohrsville. 11:00 to 2:30.
October 5-- Alliance For The Chesapeake Bay. 2nd Annual Sportsmen’s Forum. Middle Creek
Wildlife Area, Lebanon County. 8:00 to 6:00.
October 6-- PA Resources Council. Hard-To-Recycle Collection Event. Settlers Cabin Park,
Robinson Township, Allegheny County. 9:00 to 1:00.
October 5-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Blueberry Hill Park,
Franklin Park, Allegheny County. 10:30 to Noon.
October 9-11-- NEW. PA Association of Conservation Districts. Annual Watershed Specialists
Meeting. State College.
October 10-- DEP Technical Advisory Committee On Diesel Powered (Mining) Equipment.
DEP New Stanton Office, 131 Broadview Road, New Stanton. 10:00. DEP Contact: Peggy
Scheloski, 724-404-3143 or mscheloske@pa.gov.
October 10-- NEW. DEP Hearing (If Needed) On Georgia Pacific Plant RACT II Air Quality
Plan in Sergeant Township, McKean County. DEP Northwest Regional Office, 230 Chestnut
Street, Meadville. 9:00.
October 13-- PA Resources Council. Vermicomposting Workshop. Ross Township Community
Center, Allegheny County. 12:30 to 2:00.
October 13-- PA Resources Council. Household Chemical Collection Event. Bradys Run Park,
Beaver County. 9:00 to 1:00.
October 16-- Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00.
DEP Contact: Laura Edinger, 717-772-3277, ledinger@pa.gov. (formal notice)
October 16-- DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.
10:00. DEP Contact: Neil Bakshi, DEP Policy Office, nebakshi@pa.gov.
57
October 17-- DEP State Board For Certification of Water and Wastewater Systems Operators
meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Edgar
Chescattle, echescattie@pa.gov.
October 17-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: Buchanan State Forest District,
District Office, 25185 Great Cove Road, McConnellsburg, Fulton County. 6:00 to 8:30 p.m.
Click Here for more.
October 17-- PA Chamber Fall Regional Environmental Conference In Mars, Butler County.
October 17-21-- Passive House Western PA. North American Passive House Network 2018
Conference. David L. Lawrence Convention Center, Pittsburgh.
October 18-- CANCELED. DEP Radiation Protection Advisory Committee meeting

rescheduled to November 15. DEP Contact: Joseph Melnic 717-783-9730 or send email to:
jmelnic@pa.gov. (formal notice)
October 18-- DEP Small Water Systems Technical Assistance Center Board meeting. DEP
Southcentral Regional Office, Susquehanna Room, 909 Elmerton Avenue, Harrisburg. 9:00.
DEP Contact: Dawn Hissner 717-787-9633 or send email to dhissner@pa.gov. (formal notice)
October 18-- PA State Assn. Of Township Supervisors. PA Stormwater Conference [Western].
Butler County.
October 18-- PA Resources Council. Recycling Awareness Workshop. Sewickley Public
October 20-- Eastern PA Coalition For Abandoned Mine Reclamation. Fall Cleanup In
Centralia, Columbia County.
October 23-- DEP Climate Change Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: John Krueger, 717-783-9264, jkrueger@pa.gov. (f ormal notice)
October 24-- NEW. PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering Committee meeting.
Participants also need to call in 1-650-479-3208, PASSCODE 643 952 548.
October 24-- DEP Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee meeting. 12th Floor
Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Nancy Herb, 717-783-9269,
nherb@pa.gov.
October 24-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: Clear Creek State Forest District
[LTBD ] Clarion, Forest, Jefferson, Mercer, Venango counties. Click Here for more.
October 24-25-- Penn State Extension: Biochar & Torrefied Biomass Short Course. Penn State
58
University Agricultural Engineering Building, Shortlidge Road, University Park.
October 30-- PA Chamber Fall Regional Environmental Conference In King of Prussia.
October 30-31-- Northeast Recycling Council Fall Conference. Sheraton Hartford South Hotel,
Rocky Hill, Connecticut.
October 31-- DEP State Board for Certification of Sewage Enforcement Officers meeting.
Conference Room 11B, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Kristen Szwajkowski,
717-772-2186, kszwajkows@pa.gov.
November 1-2-- PA Water And Wastewater Technology Summit. Penn Stater Conference
Center Hotel, State College.
November 3-- PA Resources Council. Vermicomposting Workshop. Construction Junction,

Point Breeze, Allegheny County. 11:00 to 12:30.
November 6-- PA Resources Council. Vermicomposting Workshop. North Park Rose Barn,
November 7-- DEP Oil and Gas Technical Advisory Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Todd Wallace, 717-783-9438, twallace@pa.gov.
November 8-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: Rothrock State Forest District,
Shaver’s Creek CFD Community Building, 8707 Firemans Park Ln, Petersburg, Huntingdon
County. 6:30 to 8:00 p.m. Click Here for more.
November 8-- DCNR Public Meeting On Forest District Plans: Weiser State Forest District,
District Office, 16 Weiser Lane, Aristes, Columbia County. 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. Click Here for
more.
November 14-- PA Resources Council. Vermicomposting Workshop. South Park Buffalo Inn,
November 15-- DEP Radiation Protection Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel
Carson. 9:00. DEP Contact: Joseph Melnic 717-783-9730 or send email to: jmelnic@pa.gov.
(formal notice)
November 16-- PA State Assn. Of township Supervisors. PA Stormwater Conference [Eastern].
Montgomery County.
November 29-- Academy Of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. Delaware Watershed

Research Conference. Academy Offices in Philadelphia.
December 5-- DEP Storage Tank Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
59
Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Kris Shiffer 717-772-5809 or send email to: kshiffer@pa.gov.
(formal notice)
December 17-- NEW. PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering Committee meeting.
Participants also need to call in 1-650-479-3208, PASSCODE 644 895 237.
January 27-30-- Partnership For The Delaware Estuary. 2019 Delaware Estuary Science &
Environmental Summit. Cape May, NJ.
April 29 to May 2-- Center for Watershed Protection. 2019 National Watershed and Stormwater
Conference. South Carolina.
May 8-10-- NEW. PA Assn. Of Environmental Professionals. 2019 Annual Conference -
Growth Through Collaboration. State College.
Related Tools ----------------
Visit DEP’s Public Participation Center for public participation opportunities.
Click Here for links to DEP’s Advisory Committee webpages.
Visit DEP Connects for opportunities to interact with DEP staff at field offices.
Click Here to sign up for DEP News a biweekly newsletter from the Department.
DEP Facebook Page DEP Twitter Feed DEP YouTube Channel
DEP Calendar of Events DCNR Calendar of Events
Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule
You can watch the Senate Floor Session and House Floor Session live online.
Grants & Awards
This section gives you a heads up on upcoming deadlines for awards and grants and other
recognition programs. NEW means new from last week.
September 3-- American Chestnut Foundation Photo Contest

September 5-- PA Parks & Forests Foundation Photo Contest
September 7-- DCNR, PASA Recipes For Streams. Trees. Food. Conservation Cookbook
September 12-- Allegheny Health Dept. Air Pollution Prevention Grants
September 15-- CFA Alternative & Clean Energy Funding
September 15-- CFA Renewable Energy-Geothermal & Wind Funding
60
September 15-- CFA Solar Energy Funding
September 15-- CFA High Performance Building Funding
September 27-- NFWF Delaware Watershed Conservation Fund
September 28-- Dept. Of Ag Research Grants: Lanternfly, Conservation Practices
September 28-- DCNR Multifunctional Riparian Forest Buffer Grants
September 28-- DEP Calendar 2017 Recycling Performance Grants
September 29-- Sinnemahoning Watershed Restoration Grants
September 30-- Fish & Boat Commission Clean Vessel Act Grants
September 30-- Duquesne Light, Nissan Electric Vehicle Rebate
September 30-- Project Learning Tree Environmental Ed Grants
September 30-- PPL Foundation STEM Educator Grants
October 1-- DEP Small Business Advantage Grants-Water Quality Projects (First-come)
October 15-- DEP Coastal Zone Grants
October 31-- PA Resources Council Gene Capaldi Lens On Litter Photo Contest
October 31-- Axalta, Philadelphia Eagles All-Pro Teachers Program
November 1-- NEW. Delaware River Basin Commission Fall Photo Contest
December 1-- USDA Rural Community Water Infrastructure Funding (Rolling Deadline)
December 14-- NEW. DEP Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebates (First-come)
December 14-- DEP Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants
December 15-- Coldwater Heritage Partnership Grants
December 31-- DEP County Act 101 Waste Planning, HHW, Education Grants
-- Visit the DEP Grant, Loan and Rebate Programs webpage for more ideas on how to get
financial assistance for environmental projects.
-- Visit the DCNR Apply for Grants webpage for a listing of financial assistance available from
DCNR.
Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits
Here are highlights of actions taken by agencies on environmental regulations, technical

guidance and permits.
Regulations -----------------------
The Public Utility Commission has scheduled 4 stakeholder meetings on a proposed rulemaking
regarding the use of full projected future test years for the energy and water/wastewater utilities
regulated by the PUC.
The meetings will be held September 27, October 30, November 28 and January 23 in the
PUC’s Executive Chambers, Third Floor, 400 North Street in Harrisburg starting at 10:00.
Click Here for the formal notice.
Pennsylvania Bulletin - September 1, 2018
Technical Guidance -------------------

61
The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the September 1 PA Bulletin
rescinding Pennsylvania’s Plan for Addressing Problem Abandoned Wells and Orphaned Wells
technical guidance because it contains dated information. Questions should be directed to Kurt
Klapkowski by sending email to: kklapkowski@pa.gov or by calling 717-783-9893.
Permits ------------
Note: The Department of Environmental Protection published 57 pages of public notices related
to proposed and final permit and approval/ disapproval actions in the September 1 PA Bulletin -
pages 5506 to 5563.
The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the September 1 PA Bulletin of

a federal consistency determination under the Coastal Zone Management Act for a groin
structure on Lake Erie.
DEP and PennVEST published notice in the September 1 PA Bulletin of environmental

assessment approval for certain water infrastructure projects in Armstrong, Cambria, Clinton,
Indiana and Mercer counties.
Related Tools ----------------------
Sign Up For DEP’s eNotice: Did you know DEP can send you email notices of permit
applications submitted in your community? Notice of new technical guidance documents and
regulations? All through its eNotice system. Click Here to sign up.
Visit DEP’s Public Participation Center for public participation opportunities.
DEP Proposals Out For Public Review

Other Proposals Open For Public Comment - DEP webpage
Submit Comments on Proposals Through DEP’s eComment System
Recently Closed Comment Periods For Other Proposals - DEP webpage
Other Proposals Recently Finalized - DEP webpage
DEP Regulations In Process

Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage
Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage
Recently Finalized Regulations - DEP webpage
DEP Regulatory Update - DEP webpage
August 4, 2018 DEP Regulatory Agenda - PA Bulletin, Page 4733
DEP Technical Guidance In Process

Draft Technical Guidance Documents - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines - DEP webpage
62
Recently Closed Comment Periods For Technical Guidance - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance Recently Finalized - DEP webpage
Copies of Final Technical Guidance - DEP webpage
DEP Non-Regulatory/Technical Guidance Documents Agenda (July 2018)- DEP webpage
CLICK HERE To View Or Print Entire PA Environment Digest
CLICK HERE to View or Print the entire PA Environment Digest. This Digest is 64 pages long.
Stories Invited
Send your stories, photos and links to videos about your project, environmental issues or
programs for publication in the PA Environment Digest to: PaEnviroDigest@gmail.com.
About PA Environment Digest
PA Environment Digest is edited by David E. Hess, former Secretary Pennsylvania Department

of Environmental Protection. He can be contacted by sending email to:
PaEnviroDigest@gmail.com.
Did you know you can search back issues of PA Environment Digest since May 28, 2004 on
dozens of topics, by county and on any keyword you choose? Just click on the search page.
PA Environment Digest weekly was the winner of the PA Association of Environmental

Educators' 2009 Business Partner of the Year Award.
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Issue #740 Harrisburg, PA Sept.

PA Environment Digest Blog​ ​Twitter Feed​ ​PaEnviroDigest Google+

Northeast Environmental Partners Announce Winners Of 2018 Environmental Leadership

The Northeast Environmental Partners Monday

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and ​The

PA Chesapeake Bay Planning Steering Committee Meets Sept. 10 On Outreach,

The ​PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering

A group of inspiring young people on the ​Chesapeake Bay

Green Building Alliance Honors 25 Western PA Green Building Projects On Sept. 20

Green Building Alliance​ based in Pittsburgh is

The ​2017 Oil and Gas Annual Report​ released

FirstEnergy Solutions Corp. ​late Wednesday notified

PA Recycling Markets Center, Closed Loop Fund Announce $5 Million Partnership To

The ​PA Recycling Markets Center​ and ​Closed Loop

The Department of Environmental Protection has

The Department of Environmental Protection Friday

Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule [Updated]/Gov’s Schedule/ Bills

Committee Meeting Agendas This Week

House:​ <> ​Click Here​ for full House Committee Schedule.

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

Bills Pending In Key Committees

The following bills of interest were introduced last week--

News From Around The State

The Department of Agriculture Wednesday reminded

The ​Berks County Conservation District​ will host a

The ​2018 Conservation District Watershed Specialist

Sept. 18 Webinar: Working With Rural Landowners On Voluntary Conservation,

Water Words that Work​, ​Chesapeake Land And

The ​Stroud Water Research Center​ in Chester

By: Jim Wilson, ​Northampton County Parks &

On August 11, another flash flood for the record

PA Coast Day, Delaware River Festival Sept. 15 In Philadelphia, Camden

The ​Delaware River Basin Commission​ Wednesday

In a state with more than 12 million

(Reprinted from ​Penn State News​.)

The ​Centre County Recycling and Refuse

Not in Philly​, a project of the ​PA Resources Council​,

Call For Presentations: PA Environmental Professionals Annual Conference May 8-10

The ​PA Association of Environmental

The Department of Environmental Protection has scheduled an October 10 hearing on the

Gov. Wolf: $500,000 Grant To Redevelop IAC Brownfield In Cumberland County

On September 20 Penn State Extension is holding

Schuylkill County Anthracite Coal Waste-To-Energy Power Plant To Shut Down

Luminant​, a subsidiary of ​Vistra Energy​, ​Friday announced​ it filed a notice of suspension of

Gov. Tom Wolf Tuesday announced $1 million in

DEP Offering Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebates Of Up To $2,000

The Department of Environmental Protection Tuesday announced it is offering rebates up to

Sustainable Pittsburgh Hosting Healthy Products, Responsible Waste Management, Water

Sustainable Pittsburgh​ is hosting several informative

On Monday, at the ​Strawberry Hill Nature Preserve​,

The ​Brodhead Watershed Association​ and ​East

The ​Brodhead Watershed Association​ will host another

Lacawac Sanctuary Highlights Education, Other Programs In September In Wayne

The ​Lacawac Sanctuary and Biological Field Station​ in

(Reprinted from ​DCNR’s Good Natured Blog.​ )

Hawk Mountain Celebrates Vulture Awareness, Raptor Conservation Education Sept. 1

September 1 will be an exciting day as ​Hawk Mountain

Kelly Stagen, Pike County, Named Secretary, PA Association Of Conservation Districts

Kelly Stagen, of Lords Valley, a member of the ​Pike County

In Memoriam: Susan Woods, State Government Media Relations Professional

Susan Woods (61) of Mechanicsburg, Cumberland County

Environmental NewsClips - All Topics

Thomas: Students Push State Recognition For “Snot Otters” (Hellbenders)

Click Here For This Week's Allegheny Front Radio Program

PA Environment Digest Blog Twitter Feed PaEnviroDigest Google+

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and The

The PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering

A group of inspiring young people on the Chesapeake Bay

Green Building Alliance based in Pittsburgh is

The 2017 Oil and Gas Annual Report released

FirstEnergy Solutions Corp. late Wednesday notified

The PA Recycling Markets Center and Closed Loop

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

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

The Berks County Conservation District will host a

The 2018 Conservation District Watershed Specialist

Water Words that Work, Chesapeake Land And

The Stroud Water Research Center in Chester

By: Jim Wilson, Northampton County Parks &

The Delaware River Basin Commission Wednesday

(Reprinted from Penn State News.)

The Centre County Recycling and Refuse

Not in Philly, a project of the PA Resources Council,

The PA Association of Environmental

Luminant, a subsidiary of Vistra Energy, Friday announced it filed a notice of suspension of

Sustainable Pittsburgh is hosting several informative

On Monday, at the Strawberry Hill Nature Preserve,

The Brodhead Watershed Association and East

The Brodhead Watershed Association will host another

The Lacawac Sanctuary and Biological Field Station in

(Reprinted from DCNR’s Good Natured Blog. )

September 1 will be an exciting day as Hawk Mountain

Kelly Stagen, of Lords Valley, a member of the Pike County

September 8- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Ross Township

September 18-20-- Mid-Atlantic Chapter International Erosion Control Association. 25th

September 29-- PA Resources Council. Backyard Composting Workshop. Construction

October 3-- PA Chamber Fall Regional Environmental Conference In Harrisburg.

October 18-- CANCELED. DEP Radiation Protection Advisory Committee meeting

November 3-- PA Resources Council. Vermicomposting Workshop. Construction Junction,

November 29-- Academy Of Natural Sciences of Drexel University. Delaware Watershed

Visit DEP’s Public Participation Center for public participation opportunities.

Click Here for links to DEP’s Advisory Committee webpages.

DEP Facebook Page DEP Twitter Feed DEP YouTube Channel

DEP Calendar of Events DCNR Calendar of Events

Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule

September 3-- American Chestnut Foundation Photo Contest

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the September 1 PA Bulletin of

DEP and PennVEST published notice in the September 1 PA Bulletin of environmental

Visit DEP’s Public Participation Center for public participation opportunities.

PA Environment Digest is edited by David E. Hess, former Secretary Pennsylvania Department

PA Environment Digest weekly was the winner of the PA Association of Environmental

PA Environment Digest is a supporting member of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers