pa environment digest august 11, 2014

8/12/2019 Pa Environment Digest August 11, 2014

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PA Environment Digest

An Update On Environmental Issues In PAEdited By: David E. Hess, Crisci Associates

Winner 2009 PAEE Business PartnerOf The Year Award

Harrisburg, Pa August 11, 2014

DEP Releases After Action Reports On Fatal Chevron Well Fire

The Department of Environmental Protection has completed its After-Action Review of the fatal well

fire that occurred on Chevrons Lanco gas well pad on February 11.

The report, released Wednesday, provides a summary of the incident, a chronology of events, a

review of the problems encountered during the well incident and recommendations.The report points to possible human error and a failed screw and nut assembly as factors that

allowed gas to escape the well and led to the fire. Chevron has since inspected other wells with similar

installations and issued guidelines.

The DEP report is critical of on-site communications between Chevron and DEP, as well as the

company and the media. It recommends establishing a specialized response protocol that would set up a

system for DEP senior managers to coordinate operational response and establish DEPs authority on

the site to ensure that DEP staff has proper equipment, access and adequate staffing to perform their

function.

The report said in part, Chevron failed to continually provide meaningful update information on

the emergency incident during the regularly scheduled briefings held at the Unified Command Center

location at the Miller Pad. DEP staff were excluded from discussions at the Miller Pad UnifiedCommand Center with Chevron and Wild Well while they developed the information provided at the

regularly scheduled briefing.

Chevron controlled access at the site based on what they believed were PSP (PA State

Police) directives. DEP personnel were prevented from accessing areas of the site on several occasions.

Proper coordination and communication between PSP, Chevron, and DEP could have prevented this

situation.

On several occasions, DEP requested that Chevron brief the media on the ongoing situation.

Chevron did set up and staff a Joint Information Center (JIC) located at the Bobtown, PA, Polish Club

on February 12, but then made a decision to move the JIC to Morgantown, WV on February 16.

Locating the JIC at a location where media could 16 better access Chevron personnel would have

improved communication with the public. The JIC should have included personnel that were authorizedto speak freely on behalf of the company.

There was uncertainty about the location of the actual decision making authority for the incident

(on site or at Moon Twp.). Chevron was not clear with DEP staff where such discussions were being

held and which Chevron personnel had ultimate decision making authority.

A separate DEP Bureau of Investigations report examines more closely the factors leading up to

the fire and makes specific observations about staffing, training and management oversight of the

operations on the well pad.
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D11953&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFSPEUcwhnqVJLvxVyzABsEHAreLQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D11953&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFSPEUcwhnqVJLvxVyzABsEHAreLQ


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Click Herefor a copy of the After Action Review of the Chevron well fire. Click Herefor a

copy of DEPs Bureau of Investigations report on the well fire.

NewsClips:

DEP Faults Chevron For Lack Of Oversight In Fatal Well Fire

DEP Points To Human Error, Bad Communications At Fatal Well Fire

DEP Issues Report On Chevron Gas Well FireLetter: DEP Safeguards The Environment In Drilling Era

Editorial: Fatal Well Fire Holds Lessons For Future

DEP Recommends Against EQB Adopting Ashley Funk Carbon Dioxide Emission Limits

In a report to be considered August 19 by the Environmental Quality Board, the Department of

Environmental Protection recommended against adoption of the carbon dioxide emission limits

proposed in a rulemakingpetition by Ashley Funksaying Pennsylvanias Climate Change Action Plan

already projects emissions in 2020 will be lower than those in 2000.

DEP also said a national approach to greenhouse gas emissions is needed like the Clean Power

Planproposed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in June because climate change is anational and global issue and should cover all sources of carbon dioxide emissions.

The petition asked DEP to adopt a regulation which would require a 6 percent reduction in

carbon dioxide emissions from all fossil fuel-burning sources in the Commonwealth through 2050 with a

baseline of 2012.

Comments by the petitioner on DEPs recommendations are included in the report along with

responses by DEP.

The recommendation was included in a 53-page report to the Board.

The EQB is also scheduled to consider these other items on August 19--

-- New Beaver Creek, Delaware County rulemaking petition

-- New Upper Paradise Creek, Monroe County rulemaking petition and

-- Presentation of 3 Year Radiation Protection Program Fee, Program Cost Report.

The meeting will be held in Room 105 of the Rachel Carson Building in Harrisburg starting at

9:00 a.m.

For copies of documents related to each agenda item, visit the Environmental Quality Board

webpage.

NewsClips:

Gas Interests Silent At EPA Carbon Pollution Hearings

States Sue Over EPA Coal Rules

Group: Energy Efficiency Firms Ready For EPA Carbon Rules

Add Us To Your Google+ Circle

PA Environment Digest now has a Google+ Circle called Green Works In PA. Just go to your

Google+ page and search for [email protected], the email for the Digest Editor David

Hess, and let us join your Circle.

Google+ now combines all the news you now get through the PA Environment Digest, Weekly,

Blog, Twitter and Video sites into one resource.

Youll receive as-it-happens postings on Pennsylvania environmental news, daily NewsClips
mailto:[email protected]://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fnews%2Fbusiness%2Fgroup-energy-efficiency-firms-ready-for-epa-carbon-rules-1.1732049&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNH0aTlnWVLfHuj3qhLIVg4FuELbEAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.post-gazette.com%2Fnews%2F2014%2F08%2F03%2FState-sue-over-EPA-coal-rules%2Fstories%2F201408030172&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGcfpf5sajef3HLEv93dOvV9M6uMQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fpowersource.post-gazette.com%2Fpowersource%2Fpolicy-powersource%2F2014%2F08%2F05%2FGas-interests-silent-at-EPA-carbon-pollution-hearings%2Fstories%2F201408050033&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFJTs7N5B_v6yjiK01SZTNY9FjntAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.portal.state.pa.us%2Fportal%2Fserver.pt%2Fcommunity%2Fenvironmental_quality_board%2F21511%2Feqb_meeting_schedule_2014%2F1675744&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGRK0VIkmanmlIlL7e0wJGukELi-ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ffiles.dep.state.pa.us%2FPublicParticipation%2FPublic%2520Participation%2520Center%2FPubPartCenterPortalFiles%2FEnvironmental%2520Quality%2520Board%2F2014%2FAugust%252019%2C%25202014%2520EQB%2520meeting%2FAshley%2520Funk%2F1%2520-%2520DEP%2520Recommendation.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGRRF8JAVMMffKaoGdURK2ml3v31Ahttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D28436&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGuiDDwlpZLYLPKRDx9Jm5C2FWeGAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D28436&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGuiDDwlpZLYLPKRDx9Jm5C2FWeGAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D27457&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHKxRu9ExeMxott2OCF4gM0TmYFgQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D27112&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGJnAzbuGNOeGeM6SxakzzXulICdghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.portal.state.pa.us%2Fportal%2Fserver.pt%2Fcommunity%2Fenvironmental_quality_board%2F21511%2Feqb_meeting_schedule_2014%2F1675744&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGRK0VIkmanmlIlL7e0wJGukELi-ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.post-gazette.com%2Fopinion%2Feditorials%2F2014%2F08%2F08%2FTragedy-dissected%2Fstories%2F201408080041&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGYxBdVfHPhSJDT3or4r76PjcOIDAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.post-gazette.com%2Fopinion%2F2014%2F08%2F03%2FDEP-s-oversight-of-wells-is-unprecedented%2Fstories%2F201408020022&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHW4K6pbjVppNYQ81qCnD10Zawnfghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.observer-reporter.com%2Farticle%2F20140806%2FNEWS02%2F140809710%23.U-KEwoBdVwI&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEMUkncWfxU15ZGpmg5DcQ4uh1L7Qhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ftriblive.com%2Fnews%2Fadminpage%2F6569001-74%2Fchevron-dep-state%23axzz39bCs5eE5&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEtJkqEspq8vQRod6kmG4VTaCwWuQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fstateimpact.npr.org%2Fpennsylvania%2F2014%2F08%2F06%2Fpa-faults-chevron-for-lack-of-oversight-poor-communication-in-fatal-well-fire%2F%23more-28314&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEKX2SVEjQLN5hg0E_9Mr4MjnsRDAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ffiles.dep.state.pa.us%2FOilGas%2FOilGasLandingPageFiles%2FBOI%2520Lanco%252078.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGySk_72o8WAy2_2mnOVFcKnicfrghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ffiles.dep.state.pa.us%2FOilGas%2FOilGasLandingPageFiles%2FChevron%2520After%2520Action%2520Report.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHf0CoHT72LOXLf0nIYI3hwclapYA


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Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule

Here are the Senate and House Calendars and Committee meetings showing bills of interest as well as a

list of new environmental bills introduced--

Bill Calendars

House (September 15): House Bill 202(Harper-R-Montgomery) prohibiting standby water service

charges for fire companies House Bill 1684(Everett-R-Lycoming) which seeks to clarify a minimum

royalty payment in state law House Bill 2104(Godshall-R-Montgomery) further providing for

consumer protections in variable rate electric supplier contracts House Resolution 249

(Swanger-R-Lebanon) supporting increased development and delivery of oil from North American oil

reserves- sponsor summary Senate Bill 771(Gordner-R-Columbia) establishing the State Geospatial

Coordinating Board. Click Herefor full House Bill Calendar.

Senate (September 15):All bills on the Senate Calendar were Tabled as per the Senate procedure

for a summer break. Click Herefor full Senate Bill Calendar.

Committee Meeting Agendas This Week

House: Click Herefor full House Committee Schedule.

Senate: Click Herefor full Senate Committee Schedule.

Bills Pending In Key Committees
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Here are links to key Standing Committees in the House and Senate and the bills pending in each--

House

Appropriations

EducationEnvironmental Resources and Energy

Consumer Affairs

Gaming Oversight

Human Services

Judiciary

Liquor Control

Transportation

Links for all other Standing House Committees

Senate

AppropriationsEnvironmental Resources and Energy

Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure

Community, Economic and Recreational Development

Education

Judiciary

Law and Justice

Public Health and Welfare

Transportation

Links for all other Standing Senate Committees

Session Schedule

Here is the latest voting session schedule for the Senate and House--

House

September 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24

October 6, 7, 8, 14, 15

November 12

Senate

September 15, 16, 22, 23, 24October 6, 7, 8, 14, 15

November 12

News From The Capitol

Lawmakers, Environmental Groups Urge Protection Of Loyalsock Forest From Drilling
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2FStandingCommittees.cfm%3FCteeBody%3DS&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEC58agufzJmhvE4RnWHsK0a7ZX_ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D19%26CteeBody%3DS&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHYexuTKRMSJJuBXd_OihjSSIbxzghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D33%26CteeBody%3DS&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFjDz5OMb9vRkkZfsgptcHsAAoQIghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D29%26CteeBody%3DS&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEFRblqtaEenQ0VT95qBN99spSVughttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D39%26CteeBody%3DS&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGen44rvRCPWPNWdkE78IRMtdYD8Qhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D23%26CteeBody%3DS&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFX6wadL86stvoAjqp_6XVmIr3CPQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D31%26CteeBody%3DS&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGWo5gPwUqwjzbCCyXJsXuHG9LBQwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D7%26CteeBody%3DS&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGgl8oWuYIE7IS-GPdHIkQnMbzMTghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D9%26CteeBody%3DS&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNH8Oe-V64S3ruX2jiyUpOyg7imNJghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D3%26CteeBody%3DS&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG3mRHkOALJiQh5zbZfq4w6uhsOGghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2FStandingCommittees.cfm%3FCteeBody%3DH&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNE0OH51wmcZ0tLzkVBDYDfFkI-Vdwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2FStandingCommittees.cfm%3FCteeBody%3DH&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNE0OH51wmcZ0tLzkVBDYDfFkI-Vdwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D38%26CteeBody%3DH&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG766DjTIHBb4RERLenJpHLZjl_zQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D28%26CteeBody%3DH&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNE8laLY8-2fNFQwO2I3GM8xy67vNAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D24%26CteeBody%3DH&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEj0T4DMvS-Do_PTGnG1M1IMJZd7whttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D56%26CteeBody%3DH&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGtzO07uQSwtQoHuuk14hWq3d60gwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D54%26CteeBody%3DH&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNETvX_kv57bKi9X1aUnj7T000SRiwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D10%26CteeBody%3DH&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFTt-ARiXW9soyui0IvrazqU61quAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D8%26CteeBody%3DH&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFxUAkR70KgxtgUTF3f8bVMWtCySghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D12%26CteeBody%3DH&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHChd4URUtlhk9tHinZDzI9l2PFSAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.legis.state.pa.us%2Fcfdocs%2FCteeInfo%2Findex.cfm%3FCode%3D4%26CteeBody%3DH&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHMLwVjcUxZLx4Cw4D2aell4MHkRA


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Rep. Greg Vitali (D-Delaware), Minority Chair of the House Environmental Resources and Energy

Committee, was joined by environmental organizations and legislators at a news conference Monday to

urge Gov. Tom Corbett to protect the Clarence Moore Lands in Loyalsock State Forest from natural

gas drilling.

Rep. Vitali announced that he has introduced legislation-- House Resolution 500-- which would

urge Corbett to protect a 25,261-acre tract from drilling. The resolution has been co-sponsored by 53representatives and has bipartisan support.

"The people of Pennsylvania do not want drilling in places like Loyalsock State Forest," said

Rep. Vitali. "Gov. Corbett should do everything in his power to prevent drilling in this Commonwealth

treasure."

The news conference was held less than a week after the Department of Conservation and

Natural Resources announcedit will give the public 15 days to comment after it drafts a surface

development management agreement that would allow Anadarko and Southwest Energy Company to

drill in the Clarence Moore Lands.

The companies own the mineral rights under the tract.

Sierra Club Pennsylvania Chapter Director Joanne Kilgour said the development management

agreement will be more than 100 pages long and technical. She said the 15-day public comment periodDCNR plans to hold on the agreement is insufficient.

"We are asking the Corbett administration and DCNR to have a valuable and meaningful public

input process," Kilgour said.

She said DCNR should take public comments for 60 days, hold three public hearings, including

one in the Williamsport area, and publicly disclose all environmental reviews and other impact

assessments it and third parties conduct.

Kilgour and other speakers said the governor should do all he can to protect this tract because

of its unique features, including the Old Loggers Path, a 27-mile hiking trail, and Rock Run, an

exceptional value stream.

"The Old Loggers Path should be protected due to its stature in the hiking and backpacking

community as one of Pennsylvania's finest and most enjoyable trails," said Curt Ashenfelter, executive

director of the Keystone Trails Association. "It showcases the beauty of Pennsylvania's public lands and

provides access to Rock Run, a stream of magnificent beauty."

If drilling was permitted, miles of roads and pipeline would carve the area, and dozens of well

pads would dot the land, said Kristen Cevoli, fracking program director for PennEnvironment.

The public doesn't want that, said John Norbeck, vice president of PennFuture.

"Citizens do not want any further industrialization of their lands," Norbeck said.

Also participating in the news conference were Clean Water Action Pennsylvania State Director

Myron Arnowitt, attorney John Childe, Ralph Kisberg from Responsible Drilling Alliance and state

Reps. Pamela DeLissio (D-Montgomery), Eddie Day Pashinski (D-Luzerne), Mark Cohen

(D-Philadelphia) and Mary Jo Daley (D-Montgomery).NewsClip:Its A Myth PA Can Block Drilling In Loyalsock State Forest

Sen. Rafferty To Introduce Bill Supporting Installation Of Forested, Streamside Buffers

Relying upon, current science that shows streamside forest buffers protect communities from pollution

and reduce flooding, Sen. John Rafferty (R-Montgomery) plans to introduce a new bill-- Senate Bill

1465 (not yet online)to support protection of forest buffers along streams, creeks and rivers in the
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fpaindependent.com%2F2014%2F08%2Fcorbett-adviser-its-myth-pa-can-block-drilling-in-loyalsock-state-forest%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNExJhteohyTYzioLoMa-7iF6oJvpQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D29516&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHDNVhaLxoqsnPoBLcqZQEzRB8mPghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D29516&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHDNVhaLxoqsnPoBLcqZQEzRB8mPghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwallaby.telicon.com%2FPA%2Flibrary%2F2014%2F20140804TZ.PDF&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFTbvjfJ5fm8n8BUR4qwsyOsigBVA


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state.

The new bill is being applauded by both conservation and water research organizations.

This measure will provide the most basic protections from pollution and flooding to every

community in the Commonwealth, said Maya van Rossum, the Delaware Riverkeeper. Streams lined

by healthy forested buffers reduce pollution in the creeks communities drink from, fish in, and play in.

Once established, vegetated buffers help communities meet federal pollution protection laws at a verylow cost, they can provide protection from flooding that devastates communities, and they help prevent

erosion that undermines public and private lands as well as bridge and road infrastructure. Moreover,

this law will ensure that the cost of providing these protections is appropriately carried by new

development projects, not by taxpayers or municipal and state budgets.

Senate Bill 1465 focuses on securing 100-foot buffers on waterways that are bordered by new

development projects with additional protections for waterways that fail to meet state water quality

requirements as well as streams designated exceptional value or high quality.

The law encourages municipal ordinances to provide this protection and supports statewide

action in the absence of municipal ordinances.

We recently reviewed over 230 scientific studies and concluded that streamside forest buffers

must be at least 100 feet wide on both side of the stream to adequately protect its physical, chemical,and biological integrity. So, I am delighted to hear about this proposed legislation. It is consistent with

the latest science, said Bernard W. Sweeney, Ph.D. Director Stroud Water Research Center, based in

Avondale, Pa.

"Pennsylvanians are lucky to have Sen. Rafferty who recognizes the value in protecting

streamside buffers. Protecting streamside buffers is a common sense approach to safeguarding our

water, our most vital and precious resource to our welfare," said Michael Roles, Program Organizer for

Clean Water Action in Pennsylvania. "Clean Water Action thanks Senator Rafferty for taking this

critical, practical step."

"This critical buffer legislation takes a major step in protecting future water quality in

Pennsylvania," said John Hoekstra, Executive Director of the Raymond Proffitt Foundation.

Polluted runoff from storms is a significant source of pollution in our streams and rivers.

Buffers consisting of forest or other vegetation act as filters to help keep nutrients, pesticides, and other

contaminants out of our waterways. Ensuring that no more of these natural filters are lost to

development is a good first step to protecting the quality of our water for all people and wildlife that

depend on it, said Cindy Dunn, President and CEO of PennFuture.

"Scientific research demonstrates that vegetated stream buffers control erosion, prevent flooding

and improve water quality. This bill puts into practice what legislators have known for a long time," said

Thomas Au, conservation chair for the Pennsylvania Sierra Club.

NewsClips:

Nations Top Bass Anglers Compete On Delaware For 1st Time

Officials Monitor Lake Erie For Hazardous AlgaeCBF: Could Hazardous Algae Cause Problems In Chesapeake Bay?

Editorial: Green, But Not With Envy Along Lake Erie

State To Use Lake Sediment To Bury Coal Waste Pile

Conowingo Dam: Critical Chesapeake Bay Pollution Issue

Wissahickon Watershed Launches Creek Water Program

Erie Urban Rain Garden Is Supposed To Be Wild

Edinboro Lake Dam Improvements Underway
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.goerie.com%2Farticle%2F20140804%2FNEWS02%2F308049962%2FEdinboro-Lake-dam-improvements-under-way&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFGnWZKGLLznPAK_lFmpBKeoQQdxwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.goerie.com%2Farticle%2F20140806%2FNEWS02%2F308069955%2FErie%2527s-urban-rain-garden-is-wild-and-is-supposed-to-look-that-way&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEDr4bcPkrwd26Ns7RdvV5X3_McyAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.montgomerynews.com%2Farticles%2F2014%2F08%2F04%2Fambler_gazette%2Fnews%2Fdoc53dff83c7a102513673586.txt&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFaUdVyTAQw1ErNZCzZrmLXszABSAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthinkprogress.org%2Fclimate%2F2014%2F08%2F08%2F3467685%2Fchesapeake-bay-pollution-conowingo-dam%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGI-rM0qLhN7Ug_H3ZwamrCQZcJ5ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abc27.com%2Fstory%2F26232109%2Fstate-to-use-lake-sediment-to-bury-coal-waste-pile&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFK6urQEJjXGX84BoDW4kctJql0twhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fopinion%2Fgreen-but-not-with-envy-1.1732455&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGmfcUDVhkQKSIDTiy9MzrBn_RQJQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fcbf.typepad.com%2Fchesapeake_bay_foundation%2F2014%2F08%2Fcould-it-happen-here.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFkI8f2VBqFONzgCMDVTut70vrV-Ahttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ftriblive.com%2Fstate%2Fpennsylvania%2F6556693-74%2Flake-erie-algae&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEfigr5ZixDwCNjtIMkJ7qAjxcL2whttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philly.com%2Fphilly%2Fnews%2F20140808_Nation_s_top_bass_anglers_compete_on_Delaware_River_for_the_first_time.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNE-s_wycPkmHDZtoWZg1Yd5NA-Vpghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.stroudcenter.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEFzhZrJjGEefv5BKHl70cHFsDceQ


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ALCOSAN Expands Communications Efforts

PUC Lawsuit Over Wilkinsburg Sewer Service Unprecedented

Allegheny River Quality Issue In Triathlon

Water Engineer Takes Reins At DRBC

PennDOT Salt Contaminates Covington Twp. Groundwater

More Than 8,500 Water Wells Near PennDOT Salt PilesSafe Water Options Needed For 2 Hazle Twp Villages

DEP Fines Growing Against Ford City

High Tech Water Meters Touted For Pittsburgh Customers

Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal

No House Session, But Line-Item Veto Makes News

If folks were expecting August to be a quiet month with the Senate and House still on vacation, it hasnt

started off that way.

Several of the principals involved in reviewing the constitutionality of Gov. Corbetts line-item

veto of legislative initiatives (read WAMS) in the Fiscal Code billpassed with the budget fired shots aeach other this week.

Steve MacNett, hired by Senate Republicans to review the potential for filing a lawsuit against

Corbett for the vetoes, said an interview with PLS, If a governor has the authority to blue-line language

like this, what are the limits on his blue-line authority. [There is a] real concernthat if this is left

uncheckedthat the ability of the General Assembly as the policy arm of the Commonwealths

government could be severely handicapped.

Meanwhile State Treasurer Rob McCords top lawyer Christopher Craig wrote to the

Governors Chief Counsel August 6 saying McCordpossesses serious reservations concerning the

partial veto of substantive language in the Fiscal Code bill calling the Governors action a purported

veto. The letter asked the Governors lawyer to weigh in on the legalities of the issue.

In an August 4 letterto McCord, the Governors Chief Counsel James Schultz cited recent case

law supporting Gov. Corbetts vetoes.

It now seems more than likely this issue will end up in a court challenge.

News From Around The State

DEP, DCNR Break Ground On Mather Coal Refuse Pile Project In Greene County

The departments of Environmental Protection and Conservation and Natural Resources Thursday

hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to mark the start of the Mather refuse coal pile reclamation project.

The project will use silt from the bed of Duke Lake at Ryerson Station State Parkto reclaim awaste coal pile and assist with the restoration of a recreational lake for the residents of Greene County.

This reclamation project will remove a decades-old refuse pile that has been an eyesore and

safety hazard for the residents of Mather, DEP Deputy Secretary for Active and Abandoned Mine

Operations John Stefanko said. DEP is pleased to work with its partners in the legislature, other state

agencies and the local government of Greene County to make this happen.

Deputy Secretary Stefanko was joined by Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

Secretary Ellen Ferretti and local legislators Sen. Tim Solobay (D-Washington) and Rep. Pam Snyder
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dcnr.state.pa.us%2Fstateparks%2Ffindapark%2Fryersonstation%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHaPWEfD0CoDpESUBk2MNRoLqbDQAhttp://goo.gl/DtA0hNhttp://goo.gl/xl6GXghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fplsreporter.com%2FHome%2FTabId%2F56%2FArtMID%2F472%2FArticleID%2F253%2FMacNett-speaks-discusses-line-item-veto-litigation-potential.aspx&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFno2x7cK03IzGlslTDGP_kvCqkUghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D29339&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGRCHjP8ukK_d6AZAB3AtxthYwveghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bayjournal.com%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNH6Px9j09ljaRg857-DuR91nljFvghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ftriblive.com%2Fnews%2Fallegheny%2F6569266-74%2Fcustomers-rubin-able&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFEtpwr3tdDHuVl-low5u6xmvyqJQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ftriblive.com%2Fnews%2Farmstrong%2F6569588-74%2Fplant-fines-application%23axzz39bCs5eE5&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNF03fQVPDi8n1BofAeXwyxqGV2Z-Qhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fcitizensvoice.com%2Fnews%2Fsafe-water-options-needed-for-two-hazle-twp-villages-1.1731855&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGmSYqfeWf6BbDYeQy9h9qqp9bXVwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fnews%2Fmore-than-8-500-well-water-users-live-near-state-salt-piles-1.1731559&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFG5dyPRgvAm6JAzJQcFFg69oUnawhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fnews%2Fpenndot-salt-runoff-contaminates-covington-twp-groundwater-1.1730895&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEmG1c2-GpfFvR8DY6oyW-XcDMjtAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fstateimpact.npr.org%2Fpennsylvania%2F2014%2F08%2F04%2Fwater-engineer-takes-the-reigns-at-the-delaware-river-basin-commission%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHWme4oF0FyrKtgJBvMM2q5Cbe8sAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ftriblive.com%2Fnews%2Fallegheny%2F6570252-74%2Ftriathlon-quality-river&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHQUGdHWZGWH6g6IsrtUE-r8gR6vwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ftriblive.com%2Fnews%2Fallegheny%2F6544013-74%2Fborough-bill-wilkinsburg%23axzz39bCs5eE5&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHayCX8CqDKjqrl47vKCPqPQWE7FQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ftriblive.com%2Fnews%2Fallegheny%2F6563486-74%2Falcosan-authority-clark&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEJ9hA1q2BLGrIdOC6AzSnLpNytsw


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(D-Fayette).

"Greene County was blessed with natural resources but their extraction was not always handled

with a caring hand," Rep. Snyder said. "The Mather gob pile has been a blight on the area since before

the mine was abandoned 50 years ago, and I'm eager to see it be addressed."

"The refuse pile has been a priority of mine for many years, and it is gratifying to see the

relentless efforts to remediate it begin to pay dividends," Sen. Solobay said. "The region will bewell-served by the long-awaited attention to this site."

The Mather refuse coal pile covers 70 acres and was once part of the Mather Mine, which

began operations in 1917 and was abandoned in 1964. A small portion of the pile has been burning for

the past several years.

The pile sits adjacent to a residential neighborhood and there is concern for the safety of the

residents. Although the site is fenced off, it has become a popular area for ATVs and other activities.

The erosion and some steep cuts in the coal pile present a clear danger to anyone riding or walking in

that area.

As a part of the remediation project, the coal refuse will be graded, compacted and covered

with two feet of silt excavated from the bottom of Duke Lake. The project also includes plans to

stabilize the stream bank on the South Fork of Ten Mile Creek.In a cooperative effort with DCNR, 400,000 cubic yards of soil from the bottom of Duke Lake

at Ryerson Station State Park will be excavated to cover the pile. DCNR is removing the silt from the

lake bottom to begin its dam reconstruction project.

This project is a great example of state agencies working together, as DCNR needed a place

to put silt removed from Duke Lake and DEP was looking to complete the mine reclamation work at

the Mather site, said DCNR Secretary Ellen Ferretti. Were pleased that the lake sediments can be

used constructively.

Duke Lake at Ryerson Station State Park in Greene County was drawn down in July 2005 for

safety reasons after inspections of the dam uncovered cracks and water seepage. In 2013, DCNR and

CONSOL Energy announced a settlement that will result in the replacement of the dam. The dam

replacement project is currently in the permitting process.

The refuse pile reclamation project is funded by a federal Abandoned Mine Lands Title IV

grant, provided by a tonnage fee assessed on the coal industry. The soil removal at Duke Lake Dam is

funded by the settlement with Consol Energy.

NewsClip:State To Use Lake Sediment To Bury Coal Waste Pile

DEP Celebrates Opening Of Pittsburgh Botanical Garden Atop A Reclaimed Mine

Deputy Secretary for Active and Abandoned Mine Operations John Stefanko along with Bureau

Director of Abandoned Mine Reclamation Eric Cavazza participated in the opening of the Pittsburgh

Botanical Gardenin Oakdale, which sits atop abandoned coal mines.Also present at the opening ceremony was U.S. Secretary of the Department of the Interior

Sally Jewel and Director of the Federal Office of Surface Mining Joe Pizarchik, a former DEP

employee..

Part of the Pittsburgh Botanical Gardens is a remining site that will reclaim a former strip mining

area as part of mining operations. The botanical garden stretches across 460 acres and includes plans

for 18 themed gardens, five types of woodlands and a botanic research facility while a quarter of the

garden area still has active mining occurring.
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pittsburghbotanicgarden.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG4UColaU6Sg8R-d0w0elGFuTKx_whttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pittsburghbotanicgarden.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG4UColaU6Sg8R-d0w0elGFuTKx_whttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.abc27.com%2Fstory%2F26232109%2Fstate-to-use-lake-sediment-to-bury-coal-waste-pile&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFK6urQEJjXGX84BoDW4kctJql0twhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D25299&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEahwIqfuvhH5NzxxpcMPTXpOYeOw


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The garden works by filtering acid mine drainage into the ground which then flows through a

5-foot-deep limestone water treatment facility into a lotus pond.

Funding for the treatment facility was provided by a DEP Growing Greenergrant.

(Reprinted from theAugust 7 issue of DEP News. Click Herefor past issues or to sign up for

your own copy.)

PECO Green Region Awards Grants For Environmental Projects, New Apps Due Oct. 3

In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the PECO Green Region Program, PECO has provided 18

municipalities and five nonprofit organizations with $150,000 in grant funding for environmental project

throughout the Greater Philadelphia region.

PECO andNatural Lands Trusthave awarded the 2014 Green Region grants to the following

municipalities and nonprofit organizations:

-- Bucks County:Doylestown Borough ($1,250), Langhorne Borough ($8,500), Morrisville Borough

($7,500), New Britain Borough ($10,000) and Upper Southampton Township ($5,000)

-- Chester County:Charlestown Township ($10,000), East Coventry Township ($5,000), SchuylkillTownship ($10,000) and North Coventry Township ($5,000)

-- Delaware County:Haverford Township ($5,000), Marple Township ($10,000), Nether

Providence Township ($5,000), Rose Valley Borough ($3,000), Rutledge Borough ($2,000) and

Swarthmore Borough ($5,000)

-- Montgomery County: Lower Frederick Township ($9,200), Lower Moreland Township

($10,000) and Upper Pottsgrove Township ($8,000)

-- Philadelphia: Friends of Clark Park ($6,500), Neighborhood Gardens Trust ($6,500), Powelton

Village Civic Association ($4,000), University City District ($6,500) and Urban Tree Connection

($6,500)

The success of the first 10 years of the PECO Green Region program are a testament to our

commitment to preserving the environment across the region, said Craig Adams, PECO president and

CEO. I am thrilled to celebrate our efforts by offering the opportunity for communities to engage

children in the importance of preservation in the environments where they live and play.

From trails and suburban parks to community gardens in Philadelphia, this years PECO Green

Region grant projects are a powerful reminder of the diverse ways in which green spaces touch the lives

of the regions residents, said Molly Morrison, president of Natural Lands Trust. As always, we are

inspired by the creativity and passion of each of the communities that applied and by PECOs

decade-long commitment to making this region an even more rewarding place to live.

PECO Green Region, the companys municipal open space and environmental grant program,

has awarded nearly $1.4 million for more than 180 projects since its inception in 2004.

New ApplicationsRecognizing the importance of fostering future environmental leaders, PECO and Natural Lands

Trust the regions leading land conservation organization also are offering a special 10th anniversary

round of grants dedicated to environmental projects that benefit our regions youth.

Municipalities can apply for a $10,000 grant to be used to develop projects such as gardens,

natural playscapes and nature trails. Grants will be awarded to one municipality in Bucks, Chester,

Delaware and Montgomery counties and one nonprofit in Philadelphia.

For more information and to download an application for this special round of grants, visit the
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.natlands.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHWMSxZ7fdcvdBuTDgYtc3iVZc_mAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.natlands.org%2Fservices%2Ffor-municipalities%2Fpeco-green-region-program%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGsakX-yDust27wlNLFjbBFGgxdDQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.portal.state.pa.us%2Fportal%2Fserver.pt%2Fcommunity%2FNews_and_Events%2F21504%2FDEP_Newsletter%2F1714475&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNElhCInUnBt5iuuqv_KGOJnocpi5Qhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwallaby.telicon.com%2FPA%2Flibrary%2F2014%2F2014080762.HTM&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHzcOqUp5B6vmeYycAVTCmyfI1ZmAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.depweb.state.pa.us%2Fgrowinggreener&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEHakgGu22ZchF_7LBhnq4bYmhe1A


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PECO Green Region Program webpage. Applications are due October 3.

From PECO Green Region and operating an environmentally-friendly fleet, to launching PECO

Smart Ideasto help our customers save energy and money, all of PECOs environmental efforts

contribute to and support Exelon 2020: A Low-Carbon Roadmap, the comprehensive environmental

strategy of our parent company.

DEP Completes Cleanup Of Oil Spill Along Lackawanna River

Staff from DEP's Northeast Regional Underground Storage Tank Programoversaw a major cleanup

effort on the Lackawanna River earlier this summer after tens of thousands of gallons of fuel oil spilled

into the river from an aboveground storage tank at a nearby building.

DEP Emergency Response team members Bob Bisignani and Shailesh Patel made the initial

response and lead the effort to contain the spill to the shoreline and begin the clean-up process.

Underground Storage Tank Staffers Sue Thomas, Dave McGovern, Scott Bene and Rebecca

Albert followed up the next day to coordinate getting the thick oily product out of the water.

Clean-up crews scooped up mounds of tainted soil and rocks and skimmed oil sheens off of the

water. The last part of the job involved steam-cleaning the plants and rocks along the shoreline.The Underground Storage Tank program is continuing its investigation into the spill.

(Reprinted from theAugust 7 issue of DEP News. Click Herefor past issues or to sign up for

your own copy.)

PA Resources Council Wonderful World Of Water Camp A Success!

The PA Resources Council's9th annual Wonderful World of Water day camp was held the week of

July 14 provided a free-of-charge week of fun-filled learning for students across Western PA.

This special event was sponsored by PA American Water Co. and PRC partnered with the

Outdoor Classroom at the OC's beautiful site in Upper St Clair in Allegheny County to hold the event.

30 campers enjoyed hiking, creek swimming and exploration, games, crafts and other activities.

In just one of the activities, Jo Posti of PA American Water Co., provided many items that

campers could choose from to build the best water filtration system. Campers vote on filters.

Many thanks to our partner, sponsor, special guest, & naturalist Verna McGinley, and to the

campers and their parents for making it all possible.

Senior Environment Corps Seeks Volunteers For Delaware River Education Program

Are you 55 years or older, live in a community along the Delaware River in New Jersey or

Pennsylvania, and want to become involved in educating youth in protecting our watershed resourcesand the natural world?

If so, the Delaware River SPLASH Boat Senior Environment Corpswants you.

The crew at the SPLASH Boat Floating Classroom, along withNature Abounds, a national

non-profit and organizer of the SEC program, are working together to engage senior volunteers in

teaching youth about the Delaware River and why it needs to be protected. SPLASH (Student

Participation in Learning Aquatic Science and History) teaches environmental science and history in a

unique location aboard a paddlewheel steamboat on the Delaware River.
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.natureabounds.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEhcsNGF_G5zmlaTGm5uU3YHnoa0ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fsteamboatclassroom.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFTFMndeIIqGxQoh30UgofX6mUE0Ahttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amwater.com%2Fpaaw%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFbA-zCP-cvMN9v_cvGnRRK73GdMghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prc.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEGotMC4pORTyfgpURSBZwXPSJC2whttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.portal.state.pa.us%2Fportal%2Fserver.pt%2Fcommunity%2FNews_and_Events%2F21504%2FDEP_Newsletter%2F1714475&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNElhCInUnBt5iuuqv_KGOJnocpi5Qhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwallaby.telicon.com%2FPA%2Flibrary%2F2014%2F2014080762.HTM&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHzcOqUp5B6vmeYycAVTCmyfI1ZmAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.portal.state.pa.us%2Fportal%2Fserver.pt%2Fcommunity%2Funderground_storage_tanks%2F20604&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHzWPyWZ8-1EcRvDfkiNx7KGegO5whttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.exeloncorp.com%2FEnvironment%2FStrategy%2FPages%2Foverview.aspx&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGV7Gy026KBC4TFVh5w5h05QupfqQhttps://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.peco.com%2FSavings%2FPages%2Fdefault.aspx&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNE4NIj4pF33GHi56WUmzOAUWVKZQAhttps://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.peco.com%2FSavings%2FPages%2Fdefault.aspx&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNE4NIj4pF33GHi56WUmzOAUWVKZQAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.natlands.org%2Fgreenregion&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHO44Z3KxPSlISGSl0j-8TjEcNWBA


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The crew of the vessel works with grades 3 and higher from May through October. Students on

board learn about watersheds, history of the Delaware River, river chemistry, shad migration and

macroinvertebrates (river insects).

For anyone interested in volunteering with the SPLASH Boat SEC, personal training is

provided as are lesson plans. New volunteers will work with the current crew members of the SPLASH

Boat in getting up to speed how the program is delivered and how youth are engaged.Seniors have always played a very important role with the Steamboat Floating Classroom. Its

fun to share what you know with young people, in a very unique classroom on a beautiful spot on the

Delaware notes Eric Clark, director.

Were thrilled to be working with SPLASH Boat and engaging senior volunteers in helping

youth learn about the Delaware River and protecting natural resources, said Nature Abounds

President, Melinda Hughes-Wert. Senior volunteers are great mentors for the next generation of

stewards.

Since 1997, Senior Environment Corps members have monitored water quality, helped to

inventory wildlife, marked abandoned oil wells and educated the next generation of environmental

stewards, said Hughes-Wert. SEC volunteers in Pennsylvania alone have contributed over 2,000,000

hours to the Commonwealths environment, and that contribution is estimated to be valued at over$3,000,000 a year. In 2013, the SEC program won a Western Pennsylvania Environmental Award.

For more information, visit the Delaware River SPLASH Boat Senior Environment Corps

website or contact Melinda Hughes-Wert of Nature Abounds at either 814-765-1453 or send email to:

[email protected].

Friends Of The Wissahickon Watershed Free Ice Cream Social Aug. 20

The Friends of the Wissahickoninvites neighbors and friends to enjoy free ice cream at its 8th annual ice

cream social on August 20, from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. outside of its offices at 8708 Germantown Avenue in

Chestnut Hill in Philadelphia.

Join FOW for an afternoon of free ice cream from Bredenbecks Bakery, live music, nature

activities for the whole family and the chance to meet with FOW staff and volunteers. Staff from the

Wissahickon Environmental Center will also be there. FOW members are encouraged to wear their

FOW t-shirts and hats to the event.

Join FOW as we celebrate our 90th anniversarywith a year-long schedule of special events.

Summer Issue Of PA Trout From PA Council Of Trout Unlimited Now Available

The Summer issue of PA Troutfrom the PA Council of Trout Unlimitedis now available. This issue

features stories on--

-- Celebrating Program On Kettle Creek-- Clean Water Act Protections Need Support

-- TU Trout In The Classroom Wrap Up Another Successful Year

-- Waynes Coldwater Kids Enjoy Great Day On Water

-- PA Chapter Activities Reports

Sewickly Creek Watershed Assn. Reports On Activities In July Newsletter
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.patrout.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHHXAlbEz8rbnRn0DwQ5fa5VjFP4whttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.patrout.org%2Fdocs%2Fdefault-source%2Fnewsletters%2Fpatrout_summer14.pdf%3Fsfvrsn%3D2&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEScoHjD20vRMdU5wZJ-cZQDgM2xghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fow.org%2F90thcelebration&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEgKXhPevwxUml__tR7H_DAmqNcWQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fow.org%2Fabout-us%2Fpartners%2Fwissahickon-environmental-center&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNETwffU75iayzA5DFqIKCsbr6IxKghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.bredenbecks.com%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEcwzP4egojoI3sH5uGSnLZ672X5Ahttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.fow.org&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHYsm8_giVmzBwTEwwJNrzVUXTmPAmailto:[email protected]://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fsteamboatclassroom.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFTFMndeIIqGxQoh30UgofX6mUE0A


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The Sewickly Creek Watershed Associationin Westmoreland County report on just some of its many

activities in the watershed in its July newsletter. This issue features stories on--

-- Sewickley Creek Stocking Another Success

-- UPG Capstone Senior Research Project At Lowber Mine Drainage Treatment Project

-- Indian Lake Assessment Underway

-- Awards Presented at Annual Fundraiser Banquet

Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition August Issue Of The Catalyst Available

The August issue of The Catalystnewsletter is now available from the Slippery Rock Watershed

Coalitionfeaturing articles on--

-- Sept. 18 Ohio River Watershed Celebration

-- The American Chestnut Tree: Hope For The Future

-- The Kids Catalyst: Go Fish!

-- Upcoming Events

Click Hereto sign up and receive your own copy.

Penn State Extension Aug. 4 Watershed Winds Newsletter Now Available

The August 4 issue of the Watershed Winds newsletter is now available from the Penn State Extension.

Click Hereto read this edition.

DEP Awards Grants to Restore, Protect Coastal Zones, New Apps Due Oct. 22

The Department of Environmental Protection has awarded more than $750,000 in annual coastal zone

management grants to organizations dedicated to protecting and preserving Pennsylvanias coastal zones

along Lake Erie and the Delaware Estuary.

These grants play an important role to ensure the protection of our coastal waters, DEP

Secretary E. Christopher Abruzzo said. This money will not only improve coastal waters, but provide

additional recreational and educational opportunities for nearby residents.

The annual grants were awarded to 22 non-profit and government organizations for 25 projects

in counties that border Pennsylvanias coastal zones or have a direct impact on water quality in those

areas.

Coastal zones and adjacent shore land face increasing pressure from development, erosion,

biodiversity losses and pollution. Pennsylvanias two coastal areas are a 112-mile stretch along the

Delaware Estuary and 76 miles along Lake Erie.

Coastal zone management grants support programs that measure the impact of various pollution

sources, improve public access, preserve habitats and educate the public about the benefits of thestates coastal zones.

The Delaware Estuary coastal zone is in Bucks, Delaware and Philadelphia counties and

contains islands, marshes and the shore lands of tributaries that are affected by ocean tides. The

Delaware Estuary is considered one of the largest freshwater ports in the world. The Lake Erie coastal

zone is in Erie County and includes several major tributaries shorelines.

These grants are largely funded by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

(NOAA) and Administered by DEPs Coastal Resources Management Program. NOAA is a federal
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dep.state.pa.us%2Friver%2Fczmp.htm&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEftbSvAq6qqKDCI9lBNxStuW0DMwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fextension.psu.edu%2Fnatural-resources%2Fwater%2Fnews%3Futm_campaign%3DWatershed%2BWinds%2BNewsletter%26utm_medium%3Demail%26utm_source%3Dnewsletter%26utm_content%3Dnewsletter_view_online&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHe3ucpwTsAPnDQsX_8i4moXu4aDAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.srwc.org%2Fpublications%2Fcatalyst-sign-up%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEbAXMz89RqzNaetbyghRkAUhg1Ughttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.srwc.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG-ccOsHtITSdTx7OtZHqkMy5dqUAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.srwc.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG-ccOsHtITSdTx7OtZHqkMy5dqUAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.srwc.org%2Fdownload%2F2014%2Fcat%252008-14.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGPBSuh5m0FtKXslqN5g7MtrUrpuQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sewickleycreek.com%2Fbody%2FPublic%2Fnewsletter%2FSUMMER2014%2FSummer2014.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGxiXoKFDwlC8eJhgxGKpG3YpwlnAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.sewickleycreek.com%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEYvWzfBVEjZn21O29JIHoUAoe0WA


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agency under the Department of Commerce with programs in each state that work to inform residents

of the changing impacts of weather and water resources. In Pennsylvania, those programs include the

National Ocean Service and National Weather Service.

A list of grants awarded is available online.

New Applications

The Coastal Resources Management Program is now accepting applications for 2015.Non-profit organizations, schools and universities, local government organizations, authorities and state

agencies are all encouraged to apply until the current grant round closes on Oct. 22.

More information on applying for grants will be posted on DEPs website. Click Herefor a list

of all Coastal Zone Grant Programs available in Pennsylvania.

Keep PA Beautiful Receives $1.4 Million Grant For Anti-Litter, Anti-Dumping Initiatives

The Department of Environmental Protection Monday announced it has awarded a $1.4 million grant to

Keep Pennsylvania Beautifulto increase community involvement with waste issues through illegal

dumping abatement, public education and promotion of long-term stewardship.

"With this grant, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful will be able continue their important efforts toeducate Pennsylvanians on their vital role in keeping their communities clean and reducing illegal litterin

and dumping across the state," DEP Secretary E. Christopher Abruzzo said.

The grant funds will enable KPB to implement a community-based illegal dump abatement

program, provide assistance during the Great Pennsylvania Cleanup, support new and existing KPB

chapters across the state, revise and distribute educational program and environmental stewardship

support materials, and enhance its volunteer recognition program.

The organization, which is based in Greensburg, Westmoreland County, has chapters in 36

counties throughout Pennsylvania and is responsible for the clean-up of more than 48,000 tons of waste

from communities, parks, trails, streams and roadsides.

The grant is being provided by DEP's Solid Waste Abatement Fund which is supported by fines

and penalties assessed by DEP for violations of waste regulations and will be disbursed over a three

year period.

For more information on how you can prevent litter and illegal dumping in your community, visi

the Keep Pennsylvania Beautifulwebsite.

PROP Recognizes Winners Of 2014 PA Waste Watcher Awards

The Professional Recyclers of PAWednesday announced the 62 winners of

the 2014 Waste Watcher Awardwhich recognizes Pennsylvania's most

outstanding recycling programs and projects.

Click Herefor details on each of the award winners.The Pennsylvania Waste Watchers program recognizes recycling,

waste reduction, reuse, and composting programs in Pennsylvania that have

exhibited exemplary performance.

This year, over 100 municipalities, counties, private businesses,

individuals, and community organizations from throughout Pennsylvania are

being recognized for going above and beyond what is mandated under Act 101 for their communities or

programs.
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.proprecycles.org%2FDocumentCenter%2FView%2F769&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHztlOmsdv8z6ArTxTk4_t9gLQndQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.proprecycles.org%2Findex.aspx%3Fnid%3D145&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGswFwS7SdbhhdOVYrrMpMZgDKBswhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.proprecycles.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEjseed2oTUwQTTssT3XdmPyjVCighttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.keeppabeautiful.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEnAJ8HoIN9W5G3EykJCU7tXW5k8Qhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.keeppabeautiful.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEnAJ8HoIN9W5G3EykJCU7tXW5k8Qhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dep.state.pa.us%2Friver%2Fgrants%2Fgrants.htm&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGHl6Wlw1lfLe-NPhnNbJwDWJVGPghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dep.state.pa.us%2Friver%2Fgrants%2Fcrmgrants%2Fcrmgrants.htm&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNH3Z4XSD4G_JsCm4hRixSKm19JP1Qhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.portal.state.pa.us%2Fportal%2Fserver.pt%2Fcommunity%2Fnews_releases%2F14288&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEE0F-1SC9ap2i6__d4pLKtDZkzdQ


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Act 101 - the Municipal Waste Planning, Recycling and Waste Reduction Act -has helped

generate significant economic and environmental benefits for over 20 years now.

Recycling has become a billion dollar industry in Pennsylvania and with each passing year, there

is a steady increase in the amount of collected recyclables and the number of jobs created by the

industry. Recycling has saved precious resources and energy, limited greenhouse emissions as well as

other air and water pollutants.This growth and success is the result of a serious commitment to recycling by individuals,

businesses, government and recycling and organics industry personnel like these award winners.

For more information, visit PROPs Waste Watcher Awardswebpage.

Watch This Years Winning Videos In PROPs 2014 Recycling FilmFest

The Monster Trash took First Place at the 7th Annual Recycling FilmFest which was held this past July,

in Washington, PA, at the 24th Annual Conference of the Professional Recyclers of Pennsylvania.

The Monster Trash, shows students disposing of recyclable material only to have them collected

by an invisible trash monster to be recycled. The Monster Trash was submitted by the Bellwood Antis

Middle SchoolTech Club who will receive a $200.00 cash prize for their winning video.Plastic Bag: The Movie, submitted by Amy Schirf, Centre County Recycling & Refuse

Authorityand Mimi Cooper, Centre Region Council of Governments, finished in a close second. Plastic

Bag: The Movie details an 8 week school plastic bag recycling challenge in the State College Area

School District. Schirf & Cooper will receive the Second Place cash prize of $100.00. Plastic Bag:

The Movie can be viewed by clicking here.

The 7th Annual Recycling FilmFest was sponsored by ReCommunity Recycling & Carl Hursh.

The 8th Annual Recycling FilmFest will be held at the 25th Annual Conference of the Professional

Recyclers of Pennsylvania in July of 2015, in Harrisburg, PA.

Only one vote separated the First & Second Place videos.

For more information, contact Amy Schirf by sending email to:

[email protected].

Allegheny County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Nets 700 Participants

On August 2 volunteers joined the PA Resources Councilto collect household chemicals from over 700

participants in Boyce Park in Allegheny County! Families brought paints, cleaners, batteries, auto fluids,

and more to be disposed of in a safe and eco-friendly way.

This collection marked PRC's 75th chemical collection in our 75th year of operation. So, lucky

participant 75, received a gift from us - free disposal and a Litterbug bobblehead!

These events keep thousands of pounds of toxic materials out of Pennsylvania's waste stream

and waterways!PRC holds events like this throughout the non-winter months. Click Hereto see the schedule of

upcoming events.

Electronic, Hard To Recycle Waste Collection Event In Allegheny County Aug. 16

On August 16 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., the PA Resources Councilwill be holding a Hard to Recycle

Collection at the Allegheny County Airportin West Mifflin. PRC will be collecting electronics, tires,
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.zerowastepgh.org%2FHTR-Airport.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHLKdPy52Kr93bp3vUx2kyddTE8QQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prc.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEGotMC4pORTyfgpURSBZwXPSJC2whttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.zerowastepgh.org%2FZW-hcw.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNF7PAmR8Wi2hlmgH2gG55qurxosRQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.prc.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEGotMC4pORTyfgpURSBZwXPSJC2wmailto:[email protected]://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.scasd.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHdww1bpBCIk9hiGkkwMs-dVNWexAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.scasd.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHdww1bpBCIk9hiGkkwMs-dVNWexAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.crcog.net%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNErj2ZL_8TH6drbUVx3yplaJUCPuAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fcentrecountyrecycles.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNF1jVBj9Oa2wPW72YZZbxrs6mGX9ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fcentrecountyrecycles.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNF1jVBj9Oa2wPW72YZZbxrs6mGX9ghttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gwXpv_PHO4Ihttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blwd.k12.pa.us%2Fhome_pages%2Fms&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFkseNsWXyp2954Q5BvHq6e1fxpKghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.blwd.k12.pa.us%2Fhome_pages%2Fms&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFkseNsWXyp2954Q5BvHq6e1fxpKghttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clcBQ2N5WFshttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.proprecycles.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEjseed2oTUwQTTssT3XdmPyjVCighttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.proprecycles.org%2Findex.aspx%3Fnid%3D145&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGswFwS7SdbhhdOVYrrMpMZgDKBsw


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polystyrene packaging materials, batteries and more!

While most items - including microwaves and computers - will be collected free of charge,

individuals will pay a nominal fee to drop off alkaline batteries, tires, small Freon appliances, fluorescent

tubes, vacuum cleaners, and small kitchen appliances. There is a suggested donation of $5 per TV

collected.

For a detailed list of items accepted and the price structure, download the event flyeror callPRC at 412-488-7490 ext. 236.

Click Herefor a schedule of other Hard to Recycle Collection Events, including on October 4

at the Mall at Robinson in Allegheny County.

Worm Composting Workshop Set For Aug. 26 In Pittsburgh

The PA Resources Councilwill be holding a Worm Composting Workshopon August 26 at the CCI

Center, 64 S. 14th St., in Pittsburgh's South Side from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Worm composting is an easy way to recycle organic kitchen waste into a valuable and

nutrient-rich soil fertilizer. Class participants will learn how to house, feed, harvest and care for their

own worms.All participants will be provided with a bin, instructions, and worms. Participants go home with

a complete, ready to use vermiculture system! It's easy, fun, odorless and produces a great soil

additive!

The cost of the workshop is $50 per person, $55 per couple. Participants will receive a worm

bin and a half pound of worms to get started. The bins will be assembled during class.

Click Hereto register or for more details or call the compost hotline at 412-488-7490 ext 226.

PA Resources Council August e-PRC Newsletter Now Available

The August issue of the e-PRCnewsletter is now available from the PA Resources Council this month

featuring stories on--

-- Household Hazardous Waste Collection Comes To Boyce Park

-- PECO Days in Eastern PA To Learn About Energy Saving Ideas

-- PRC Farmers Market Celebrates Natural Farmers Market Week

-- Upcoming Worm Composting Workshop

-- Wonderful World of Water Camp

-- Electronic Waste No More

-- Congratulations To Bert Schwartz On 20 Years With PRC

August 7 DEP News Now Available From DEP

The August 7 issue of DEP Newsis now available from the Department of Environmental Protection

featuring articles on--

-- DEP Releases Reports On Fatal Chevron Well Fire

-- Secretary Abruzzo Attends Environmental Council of the States Meeting

-- PA Earns International Recognition For Attracting New Energy Investments

-- Reminder: Aug. 15 Deadline to Apply For PA Energy Development Authority Grants

-- DEP to Host Hearing On Milford Compressor Station Aug. 18
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-- DEP Staff Completes Oil Spill Cleanup In Lackawanna River

-- DEP Celebrates Opening of Pittsburgh Botanical Garden Atop Reclaimed Mine

-- DEP, DCNR Break Ground For Mather Coal Refuse Pile Project

-- DEP Awards $1.4M To Keep PA Beautiful For Anti-Litter, Anti-Illegal Dumping

-- DEP Awards Air Quality Grant To Penn State For Ground-Level Ozone Research

Click Herefor past issues or to sign up for your own copy.

FirstEnergy Offering Science, Engineering Classroom Education Grants For 2014-15

FirstEnergy Corp. is offering education grantsfor creative classroom projects planned for the

2014-2015 school year within it service territories, including Penn Power, West Penn Power, Met-Ed

and Penelec in Pennsylvania.

Applications are due September 19.

Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Classroom Grants of up to $500

will be awarded for teacher professional-development initiatives and creative, individual classroom

projects for grades prekindergarten through 12.

The grants are available to educators and youth group leaders located in communities served byFirstEnergy's 10 electric operating companies, and in communities where the company has facilities or

does business.

"By supporting innovative classroom learning, FirstEnergy aims to encourage students and

teachers to explore the wide variety of career opportunities in the STEM fields of study while promoting

professional development for educators in these critical areas," said Delores Jones, manager,

Community Initiatives for FirstEnergy. "The students who benefit from these programs may use their

knowledge someday working at FirstEnergy as engineers, scientists, accountants, analysts, information

technologists and electricians."

Grants will be awarded based on the recommendations of the FirstEnergy Education Advisory

Council. Winners will be notified by October 13.

More than 1,000 STEM grants have been awarded to educators and youth group leaders since

1986.

For more information, visit the FirstEnergy STEM Grantswebpage.

PA Assn Of Environmental Educators Call For 2015 Conference Workshop Proposals

The PA Association of Environmental Educatorsis now accepting workshop proposals for its 2015

Annual Conference to be held March 13-14 at the Raystown Resort at Lake Raystown.

This conference is about CONNECTIONS - how we connect people to the environment.

Workshops can fit under the following strands:

-- Teaching Methods:Discover how creative and lasting connections can be made social media,urban programming, special audiences and even the family kitchen

-- Model Programs:Existing programs for summer camps, schools, current curricula, etc that are

successful models for connecting people with the environment

-- Environment:Trends and issues in the natural world natural history, environmental issues,

initiatives and programs dealing with issues and

-- End Goals:Stewardship, sustainability and framing education/information with an eye on the future.

Ideal workshops are interactive, engaging, and relevant to multiple members of the
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paee.net%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFlAH8ndErtJYJJdXLI2kWOs8EghQhttps://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.firstenergycorp.com%2Fcommunity%2Feducation%2Feducational_grants.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG7JlDKekzRDTyt8ReqBClMGxAqLwhttps://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.firstenergycorp.com%2Fcommunity%2Feducation%2Feducational_grants.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG7JlDKekzRDTyt8ReqBClMGxAqLwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.portal.state.pa.us%2Fportal%2Fserver.pt%2Fcommunity%2FNews_and_Events%2F21504%2FDEP_Newsletter%2F1714475&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNElhCInUnBt5iuuqv_KGOJnocpi5Q


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environmental education community. We encourage you to go beyond PowerPoint, using experiential

and hands-on techniques.

Click Herefor a proposal application and all the details. Proposals are due September 5.

Lackawanna College Environmental Education Center September Events

Check out the September eventshosted by the Lackawanna College Environmental Education Center

in Scranton.

DEP Awards Grant To Penn State For Ground-Level Ozone Research

The Department of Environmental Protection Monday announced it has awarded a $66,081 Air Quality

grant to Penn State University in Centre County to fund education and biological effects research related

to ground-level ozone.

This grant will permit Penn State scientists to continue and expand their important ozone

educational and research efforts for a three year period starting July 1 and ending June 30, 2017, DEP

Air Quality Bureau Director Joyce Epps said.The universitys educational efforts will include providing citizens information on how ozone

levels cause damage to vegetation in non-urban areas of Pennsylvania.

The university will use real-time and historical ozone data from DEPs Bureau of Air Quality to

assist with educational efforts at its Air Quality Learning and Demonstration Center, with specific

projects and activities designed for teachers in grades K-12.

Part of the grant funds will be used to fund future research on the sensitivity of common forest

and landscape plants to ground-level ozone and their use as potential bio-indicators of ozone air

pollution.

University scientists will expose sensitive plants to ozone under controlled conditions to

determine their sensitivity to ground-level ozone, and plants will be rated as to the incidence and severity

of injured foliage.

Ground-level ozone is the main ingredient in smog, and is produced when volatile organic

compounds (VOCs) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) react with sunlight. The sources of these two pollutants

include gasoline vapors, the combustion of fossil fuels, vehicle emissions and vapors from solvents like

dry cleaning fluid, paint thinner and lubricating oil.

The universitys grant is being funded by the departments Clean Air Fund, Non-Title V, which

is supported by fees, fines and penalties collected by DEP.

For more information call 717-772-3958.

NewsClips:

Air Quality Alerts Fall Far Below Normal This Year

IRRC Warns DEP Smog Controls Are Too Low

IRRC: EPA Objections To Proposed DEP NOx, VOC Regs Make Them Not Viable

The Independent Regulatory Review Commission told the Department of Environmental Protection July

30, the regulations proposedto implement new RACT (Reasonablly Available Control Technology)

requirements on sources of nitrogen oxide and volatile organic compound emissions were not viable

because of objections from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pabulletin.com%2Fsecure%2Fdata%2Fvol44%2F44-16%2F815.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHVZJcj88yJ4NhJfQ4JuMZ7ncpWXwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fpowersource.post-gazette.com%2Fpowersource%2Fpolicy-powersource%2F2014%2F08%2F05%2FState-agency-warns-DEP-that-smog-controls-are-too-lax%2Fstories%2F201408050014&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEx_YB7gaYV_9f8iO4eR_4QELwqLAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.witf.org%2Fnews%2F2014%2F08%2Fair-quality-alerts-far-below-normal-this-year.php&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHGp2N_SeGpMBrxxO01tiEHZKxfswhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lackawanna.edu%2Fabout%2Flocations%2Fenvironmental-education-center%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNE7kJxLpO1R3RGhkactb7AGQPvfDwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lackawanna.edu%2Fabout%2Flocations%2Fenvironmental-education-center%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNE7kJxLpO1R3RGhkactb7AGQPvfDwhttp://goo.gl/Vy9NDe


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The IRRC comments said in part, The extensive EPA comments provide a detailed explanation

of their concerns with the proposed regulation, including supporting data. The EPA comments include

strong warnings that the proposed regulation is not acceptable to them. The comments state that the

EQBs proposed limits are too lax, that lower emission limits are technologically feasible, and that the

EQB needs to re-examine the proposed limits.

Based on EPAs comments, it does not appear that the proposed regulation will be viable as aSIP revision. We recommend that the EQB meet with the EPA to gain a thorough understanding of their

concerns and how to successfully address them. In the final-form regulation submittal, the EQB should

explain how the revised regulation addresses each issue raised in the EPA comments and constitutes a

viable SIP revision.

DEP published the regulation for comment in April and held three hearings in May. The

comment period closed June 30.

DEP now must review the comments it received, including from the IRRC, and respond to each

one and make any recommended changes to the regulations. The final regulation would then be

returned to the EQB for action. A final review by the IRRC would follow.

A copy of the IRRC comments is available online.

NewsClips:IRRC Warns DEP Smog Controls Are Too Low

Air Quality Alerts Fall Far Below Normal This Year

PennEnvironment: Solar Electric Capacity In PA Grew By 16 Percent In 2013

PennEnvironment Research & Policy Center Wednesday released Lighting the Way: The Top Ten

States that Helped Drive Americas Solar Boom in 2013, highlighting strong solar growth across the

nation including a 16 percent increase in Pennsylvania in 2013.

The U.S. Energy Information Administration ranks Pennsylvania among the top 10 states

nationally in grid-connected solar installations. The Solar Energy Industries Association ranks

Pennsylvania 14thin terms of installed solar electric capacity with 38 MW.

Solar energy is emerging as a go-to energy option here in Pennsylvania and across the

country, said Sophie Grueterich, Field Organizer with PennEnvironment Research and Policy Center.

Thanks to the commitment of Pennsylvanias leaders, this pollution-free energy option is poised to play

a major role in helping us meet the goal of 20,000 solar roofs that the city of Philadelphia resolved to

reach by 2025.

"Philadelphia can lead by example," said Councilman Bobby Henon (6th District). "Going solar

can build a new economy - a new economy that includes numerous family-sustaining scientific, R&D,

manufacturing and construction jobs, in a way that is much safer for our environment."

Photovoltaic, along with other renewable-energy technologies are reliable and pollution-free

and a rapidly growing sector of the energy market. At IBEW Local Union #98, we combine a mix ofexperienced students, top-notch instructor and the latest and greatest equipment to train our members.

The goal of our program is to create a fundamental understanding of the core concepts necessary to

work with all PV systems, including: system components, site analysis, PV module criteria, mounting

solutions and most important, safety. For over 12 years, the IBEW has been dedicated to hands-on

labs, online solar photovoltaic training, and renewable energy education. Currently all five of our

buildings are equipped with PV systems that generated 100 KW. Stated Ignatious Fletcher, of the

IBEW, I believe that Solar PV Systems can have a strong and vibrant future in Philadelphia and the
http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.seia.org%2Fstate-solar-policy%2Fpennsylvania&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFj1dHmYyAIaSJZbnKAxbKQIESUdQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.seia.org%2Fstate-solar-policy%2Fpennsylvania&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFj1dHmYyAIaSJZbnKAxbKQIESUdQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eia.gov%2Fstate%2Fprint.cfm%3Fsid%3DPA&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNH0MNTB2y7OILuOcJj0Uwu5LzTBfAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fpennenvironment.org%2Fsites%2Fenvironment%2Ffiles%2Freports%2FPA_Lightingtheway_print.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHuTg5_56g-AFPZpYjXNsEYjHb1uwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fpennenvironment.org%2Fsites%2Fenvironment%2Ffiles%2Freports%2FPA_Lightingtheway_print.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHuTg5_56g-AFPZpYjXNsEYjHb1uwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pennenvironmentcenter.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFxV18xLQUMkSND7hF0X0E37l-kFAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.witf.org%2Fnews%2F2014%2F08%2Fair-quality-alerts-far-below-normal-this-year.php&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHGp2N_SeGpMBrxxO01tiEHZKxfswhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fpowersource.post-gazette.com%2Fpowersource%2Fpolicy-powersource%2F2014%2F08%2F05%2FState-agency-warns-DEP-that-smog-controls-are-too-lax%2Fstories%2F201408050014&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEx_YB7gaYV_9f8iO4eR_4QELwqLAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.irrc.state.pa.us%2Fdocs%2F3052%2FIRRC%2F3052%252007-30-14%2520COMMENTS.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGGP_9eUL3BCvUxG72gHIN_ssZjPQ


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State of Pennsylvania. As an industry leader, the IBEW is dedicated to staying within budget, and

deliver good value for our customers.

Pennsylvania officials deserve tremendous credit for recognizing the environmental and

economic benefits of solar and taking action to make it a reality, concluded Grueterich. As more

people see the benefits of solar energy, were confident clean, limitless energy from the sun will be a

growing part of Pennsylvanias plan to reduce pollution from power plants.A copy of the report is available online.

NewsClip: Air Quality Alerts Fall Far Below Normal This Year

FirstEnergys PA Utilities File For Rate Increases To Improve Infrastructure

FirstEnergy Corp. subsidiaries Penn Power, West Penn Power, Met-Ed and Penelec Monday filed

comprehensive distribution rate plans with the Public Utility Commission.

For Penn Power, this is the first base rate case filed in 26 years for West Penn Power, the first

in 20 years and for Met-Ed and Penelec, the first in eight years.

FirstEnergy's Pennsylvania utilities currently have, on average, the lowest rates in the state

among investor-owned electric distribution companies. If approved, the new rates would still, onaverage, be lower than the average rates charged today by other Pennsylvania utilities.

Across FirstEnergy's Pennsylvania operating companies, the proposed rate plan would result in

an average bill increase of $16.59 per month for residential customers.

Since 2006, FirstEnergy's Pennsylvania utilities have invested more than $1.8 billion for

service-related enhancement projects for customers that have not been recovered through the rate

process.

"Over the years, with strict cost management and careful planning, we have enhanced service

reliability for our customers while holding the line on electric rates," said Dave Karafa, president of

Pennsylvania Operations for FirstEnergy. "Our proposed rate plans are needed in order to make

critical customer enhancements, including infrastructure enhancements, by using technology to help

reduce the number of outages and the duration and number of affected customers when an outage does

occur. The plans are designed to bring our revenues in line with our costs, while minimizing the impact

to our customers."

The rate requests for each utility will include assistance to low-income customers. Here are the

specifics for each rate plan:

-- Penn Power has requested an increase of $28.5 million or approximately 8.7 percent over current

rates. If approved, the total bill for an average residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours (KWH)

per month would increase 11.8 percent, or $12.39, for a new monthly total bill of $117.15. The bill for

a commercial customer using 40 KW for 250 hours would increase 2.6 percent or $22.72 for a total

bill of $898.94. The bill for an industrial customer using 20 megawatts for 474 hours would decrease

0.1 percent or $354.09 to $405,471.70.-- West Penn Powerhas requested an increase of $115.5 million or approximately 8.4 percent over

current rates. If approved, the total bill for an average resid

pa environment digest august 11, 2014

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