PA Environment Digest An Update On Environmental Issues In PA Edited By: David E. Hess, Crisci Associates Winner 2009 PAEE Business Partner Of The Year Award Harrisburg, Pa June 22, 2015 DEP Citizens Advisory Council Discusses Comments On Deep Mining Impact Report At its Tuesday meeting, DEP’s Citizens Advisory Council began the discussion of its draft comments on DEP’s Act 54 report on the impact of underground coal mining with the intent of finalizing its comments at its July 21 meeting. Among the draft recommendations are­­ ­­ Independent Review Committee: Asks Gov. Wolf to convene by Executive Order an independent, technical committee to review how streams impact by underground coal mining can be restored to pre­mining conditions in both water quality chemistry and biological characteristics. The CAC notes that 8 of the 55 streams determined to be affected in the previous report (2003­2008) have yet to recover to pre­mining conditions. ­­ Disclosure Of Restoration Measures: The CAC recommends Act 54 be amended to direct mine owners to disclose to DEP how water resources impacted by underground mining operations were restored or reclaimed through private landowner agreements. Without this data, the Commonwealth is not in a position to adequately assess if the intent and purpose of Act 54 are being fulfilled. ­­ Presumption Zone Should Be Increased: The 35 degree Rebuttable Presumption Zone, as provided in Section 5.2(c) of Act 54, should be reassessed by DEP through consultation with appropriate technical professionals. With this recommendation, the CAC notes that 25 percent of mine­liable water supply effects were identified in the most recent Act 54 Report to lie outside the Rebuttable Presumption Zone, including as much as 850 outward and upward from the edge of mining. ­­ Eliminate Deadline For Water Restoration: The CAC believes it is appropriate the General Assembly revisit the provisions included in Act 54 that limit a mine operator’s liability to restore or replace a water supply if claims concerning water contamination, diminution or interruption do not occur within 2 years from the time the supply was adversely affected. It is the CAC’s recommendation that liability be determined strictly based upon the final conclusions of any investigations by DEP regarding the claim. ­­ Evaluation Of Compensation Timeframes: Section 5.1(g) of Act 54 specifies that compensation shall be provided to the landowner if an affected water supply is not restored or reestablished or a permanent alternate source is not provided within three years. The CAC received comments and testimony from the public that claim resolutions are taking longer than statutorily prescribed, including that 4 stream investigations from the 3rd Act 54 assessment period remain unresolved and have been open for 7­8 years. Given these reports, the CAC recommends the General Assembly investigate the resolution timeframes included in Act 54, why those timeframes are not being upheld, and whether those timeframes need to be amended

based upon practical and historical experience. ­­ DEP Should Be Notified Of Water Supply Issues: Section 5.2 of Act 54 requires a landowner or water user to notify the mine operator when water supply contamination, diminution or interruption has occurred. The CAC recommends the General Assembly reassess the adequacy of this requirement, including whether it is appropriate that DEP be notified at the same time a mine operator is notified, so that DEP, if necessary, can initiate an independent analysis of impacts on water resources, consistent with its obligations under the Clean Streams Law.

The CAC draft recommendation include 18 additional comments on other areas of the underground mining program including, DEP regulations, DEP permitting procedures, DEP resources for the program, particularly for data management systems, DEP policies and DEP public engagement and transparency. The draft comments also include a list of 12 questions asked to clarify sections of the Act 54 report.

A copy of the CAC’s draft comments is available online. A copy of the Act 54 report covering 2008 to 2013 is also available online.

The Citizens Advisory Council held two public hearings on the Act 54 report to help it develop its recommendations and comments, including one in Washington County.

NOTE: The Council will now hold its July 21 meeting as well as a new meeting on August 18.

For more information, visit the DEP’s Citizens Advisory Council webpage. DEP: Pipeline Task Force Members By Mid­July, Little Impact From EPA Water Rule In PA DEP Secretary John Quigley reported to the DEP’s Citizens Advisory Council Tuesday he expects the 34 members of the Pipeline Infrastructure Task Force to be announced by mid­July saying so far the agency has receive 150 applications for membership.

The Task Force will be charged with­­ — Plan, site and route pipelines in ways that avoid or reduce environmental and community impacts; ­­ Amplify and engage in meaningful public participation; ­­ Maximize opportunities for predictable and efficient permitting; ­­ Employ construction methods that reduce environmental and community impact; ­­ Develop long­term operations and maintenance plans to ensure pipeline safety and integrity; and ­­ Ensure pipeline safety and integrity during operation of the pipeline.

The final report of the Task Force is due in February. Click Here for more information on the Task Force.

Waters Of U.S. Rule Secretary Quigley said he did not expect any major impacts from the recently finalized

Waters of the U.S. rule by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, noting Pennsylvania already had similar rules under the state’s Clean Streams Law. He said the agency will be reviewing the final regulation.

In other comments, Quigley said­­

­­ EPA Clean Power Rule: Expects EPA to finalize the Clean Power Rule to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in August. ­­ Abandoned Mine Program: DEP is soliciting comments from stakeholders through a recently posted survey on its website to help evaluate the effectiveness of the Abandoned Mine Reclamation Program in addition to an internal review. He said the agency will publish an evaluation document as a result of the review, but did not give a timeframe. ­­ 3rd Decade Of Brownfields Program: Noting the 20th anniversary of the Land Recycling Program, Quigley said they are looking to build on the program to include stormwater management and alternative energy components to move even further toward sustainable development.

A copy of DEP’s formal monthly report to Council is available online. NOTE: The Council will now hold its July 21 meeting as well as a new meeting on

August 18. For more information, visit the DEP’s Citizens Advisory Council webpage.

NewsClips: Editorial: We’ll Drink To EPA Water Rule DEP Plans New Fracking Chemical Disclosure Website Gas Pipeline Routes Key To Public Acceptance Communities Can Do Little To Keep Out PennEast Pipeline Natural Gas Leak Prompts Evacuation In Bethlehem Bill Fink Elected Chair, Don Welsh Vice­Chair Of DEP Citizens Advisory Council The DEP’s Citizens Advisory Council elected Bill Fink as Chair and Don Welsh as vice­Chair at its meeting on Tuesday.

Fink replaces Terry Dayton who served very ably as Chair of the Council for the last two years.

Bill Fink is currently employed as an Environmental Management Specialist at Country View Family Farms (CVFF). CVFF operates in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Indiana with over 100 family farms raising swine under contract.

Prior to joining CVFF Mr. Fink was a Nutrient Management/CAFO Specialist with Brubaker Agronomic Services and TeamAg Incorporated for six years and Chesapeake Bay Technician with the Fulton County Conservation District from 1993 to 1999.

He has been involved with a variety of local, regional, state and national workgroups and committees including the Lower Susquehanna Water Resources Regional Committee, the National Pork Board Environmental Committee, DEP CAFO Stakeholder workgroup, and has participated in the development of the State Conservation Commission Odor Management Regulations and the Manure Haulers and Brokers Certification regulations.

He also has worked with the PA Dairy CAFO Ad Hoc Work Group, the PennAg’s Manure Applicators Counsel as well as participated in the PA CAFO General Permit renewal work group.

Mr. Fink received a Bachelors of Science in Environmental Pollution Control from the California University of PA and holds state certifications as a Certified Nutrient Management Specialist & Certified Odor Management Specialist.

Don Welsh has 30 years of experience in federal, state and local government, Don is

known for building and maintaining successful partnerships among elected officials, government agencies, businesses and interest groups to achieve environmental results.

In 2009­2010 he served as President & Chief Executive Officer of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council where he Led and directed Pennsylvania’s most respected statewide non­profit environmental organization.

Prior to PEC, Don was the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region III Regional Administrator for eight years where he was responsible for planning, managing and directing the activities of the U.S. EPA in the six­state Mid­Atlantic Region. His career with EPA also included time as the Region III Chief of Government Affairs (1984­1995), Executive Assistant to the Regional Administrator (1985­1991) and Pennsylvania State Liaison Officer (1984­1985).

He has held several PA Department of Environmental Protection positions including Deputy Secretary for State/Federal Relations (1997­2001) and Special Assistant to the Secretary for Federal Liaison (1995­1997).

NOTE: The Council will now hold its July 21 meeting as well as a new meeting on August 18.

For more information, visit the DEP’s Citizens Advisory Council webpage. DEP’s Quigley On PA Chesapeake Bay Cleanup: Clearly Not Enough Lancaster Online reporter Ad Crable Monday reported DEP Secretary John Quigley’s reaction to a U.S. Environmental Protection Agency report Thursday saying Pennsylvania’s efforts to meet its Chesapeake Bay commitments are “substantially off track”­­

“There is an urgent need for renewed focus on the Chesapeake Bay,” said Quigley. “Pennsylvania recognizes the volume of work that still needs to be done, and the size of the problem that the Wolf Administration has inherited. However, it is important to recognize the progress Pennsylvania has realized up to this point.

“Since 1985, Pennsylvania has directed more than $4 billion by way of grants, loans and program investments toward Chesapeake Bay restoration efforts. That investment has resulted in a 25 percent phosphorous reduction, 6 percent nitrogen reductions and nearly 15 percent sediment reduction since 1985.

“But it is clearly not enough,” Quigley said. To his credit, Quigley has been saying the same thing since the March hearing on DEP’s

budget when he agreed Pennsylvania is not meeting its cleanup targets. He mentioned then he and Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding have been working on

a plan to “reboot” Pennsylvania’s Chesapeake Bay cleanup efforts. NewsClips: PA Substantially Off Track In Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Efforts Conservation Groups: PA Water Clean Up Efforts Falling Short EPA Finds PA Significantly Off Track To Meet Bay Goals EPA: PA Falling Far Behind Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Plan EPA: PA Needs To Cleanup Up Chesapeake Bay PA Lags Behind In Chesapeake Cleanup ALCASAN Beings $2 Billion Sewer Overhaul Pittsburgh Residents Turn To Rain Barrels Editorial: We’ll Drink To EPA Water Rule

No Contamination To Susquehanna From Chemical Fire DEP: No Swimming, Boating, Fishing In Conewago Creek Cleanup, Monitoring Continues After Chemical Fire Fish Commission Assessing Damage After Chemical Fire EPA Tests 4 Wells Following Miller Chemical Fire What If Eagle Eats Dead Fish From Conewago Creek? Mayflies Swarm, Cause York County Bridge Closures Mayflies Swarm, Cause York County Bridge Closures Swarm Of Mayflies Isn’t All Bad News Mayflies, Your Questions Answered Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal Related Story: Analysis: Will PA Show Leadership On Water Cleanup Issues, Or Surrender To Feds? CBF­PA:Philadelphia County, Groups Join Clean Water Counts! Campaign The Chesapeake Bay Foundation­PA’s Clean Water Counts Campaign has gained significant momentum with Philadelphia County joining 14 other counties in adopting the clean water resolution, and more than 75 organizations, groups and businesses signing clean water statements of support.

The Clean Water Counts campaign calls on state officials to make clean water a top priority for the Keystone State.

About 19,000 miles of Pennsylvania waters are impaired. Agriculture is the largest source of pollution degrading the Commonwealth’s streams and rivers. The leading cause of pollution is the runoff of nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment from agriculture into streams and rivers, and ultimately the Chesapeake Bay.

The second leading cause of pollution in Pennsylvania is acid mine drainage from the legacy of coal mining in parts of the state.

According to the Department of Environmental Protection, there are 181 miles of impaired waterways in Philadelphia County. Sixty of those miles are polluted by runoff from urban and suburban areas, the third largest source of pollution in the Commonwealth.

Click Here to see how clean your streams are. The 15 counties that have adopted the Clean Water Counts resolution include Berks,

Cumberland, Erie, Fayette, Greene, Jefferson, Luzerne, Northumberland, Philadelphia, Schuylkill, Venango, Washington, Westmoreland, Wyoming, and York.

“With Philadelphia County adopting the Clean Water Counts resolution, the effort now represents one­third of Pennsylvania’s population,” said CBF’s Pennsylvania Executive Director Harry Campbell. CBF’s goal is to have all 67 counties in the Commonwealth adopt the resolution.

CBF recently expanded the Clean Water Counts campaign, inviting organizations, groups, and businesses from across the Commonwealth to declare their support for making clean water a priority in Pennsylvania.

In a short period of time, over 75 statewide and regional organizations like the PA Council of Churches, PA Growing Greener Coalition, PA Environmental Council, Lancaster Farmland Trust, PA Trout Unlimited, Audubon Pennsylvania, LandStudies, Inc., and numerous

conservancies, watershed alliances, and conservation districts have signed on. “We’re encouraged by the response we’ve received and hope that others will follow the

leadership of the counties who have passed the resolution and organizations who have shown their support. They prove that clean water counts,” Campbell added.

By supporting the Clean Water Counts campaign, Philadelphia and numerous other counties and organizations are telling lawmakers in Harrisburg that clean water is integral to Pennsylvania’s economy, communities, and human health. It’s a legacy worth leaving future generations.

To join or for more information, visit CBF­PA’s Clean Water Counts! webpage. NewsClips: PA Substantially Off Track In Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Efforts Conservation Groups: PA Water Clean Up Efforts Falling Short EPA Finds PA Significantly Off Track To Meet Bay Goals EPA: PA Falling Far Behind Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Plan EPA: PA Needs To Cleanup Up Chesapeake Bay PA Lags Behind In Chesapeake Cleanup ALCASAN Beings $2 Billion Sewer Overhaul Pittsburgh Residents Turn To Rain Barrels Editorial: We’ll Drink To EPA Water Rule No Contamination To Susquehanna From Chemical Fire DEP: No Swimming, Boating, Fishing In Conewago Creek Cleanup, Monitoring Continues After Chemical Fire Fish Commission Assessing Damage After Chemical Fire EPA Tests 4 Wells Following Miller Chemical Fire What If Eagle Eats Dead Fish From Conewago Creek? Mayflies Swarm, Cause York County Bridge Closures Mayflies Swarm, Cause York County Bridge Closures Swarm Of Mayflies Isn’t All Bad News Mayflies, Your Questions Answered Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal DEP Assesses $8.9 Million Penalty Against Range Resources For Leaking Gas Well The Department of Environmental Protection Tuesday announced it has notified Range Resources­Appalachia, LLC, of Fort Worth, TX that it intends to assess an $8.9 million civil penalty against the company, and has directed Range Resources to prevent methane and other substances from escaping from a leaking gas well and polluting groundwater and a stream in Lycoming County.

On May 11, 2015, DEP ordered Range Resources to submit a plan to remediate the defectively cemented gas well. However, the company failed to submit a satisfactory plan that made necessary repairs to prevent further leaks and pollution.

“Today, we made it clear that we take seriously our responsibility to protect residents and Pennsylvania’s natural resources,” said DEP Secretary John Quigley. “Clean water is an important part of a strong economy and Range Resources owes it to the people of Lycoming County and surrounding areas to make the repairs necessary to immediately stop the discharge of

natural gas to the waters.” The $8.9 million civil penalty would be assessed under the Clean Streams Law and the

2012 Oil and Gas Act. Drilling for the well took place in February and March of 2011, and fracking occurred in

June 2011. Subsequent investigation revealed that methane contaminated the groundwater­fed wells of private water supplies, and a nearby stream.

Although Range Resources was issued a Notice of Violation in September 2013 for the leaking gas well, it still has not corrected the defective cement. Since that time, the private wells, a pond, and nearby streams have continued to show signs of gas migration, including increased turbidity, and the presence of iron, aluminum and manganese.

Elsewhere in the area near the leaking well, foliage “dead spots” and gas escaping from the soil have been observed by DEP.

DEP’s May 11, 2015 order cited Range Resources for not correcting the defective well, and ordered the company to submit and implement a plan to prevent the migration of gas or other fluids. Calling the continued gas migration “unlawful conduct and a public nuisance,” DEP gave Range Resources ten days to submit a remediation plan.

Range Resources submitted a plan that proposed putting the well into production as a means to resolve the gas migration. DEP rejected that plan because it did not include making necessary repairs and has now directed the company to remediate the well in a manner that immediately ceases the discharge of methane to ground and surface water.

“Range Resources has the responsibility to eliminate the gas migration that this poorly constructed well is causing,” said Quigley. “Refusing to make the necessary repairs to protect the public and the environment is not an option.”

Range Resources has appealed the May 11 order to Environmental Hearing Board. Reaction In response to DEP’s announcement, Range Resources issued this statement: "We respect

and share the department’s mission to safely produce natural gas while protecting the environment. We believe we’ve complied with DEP's requests and while we have a disagreement about this situation, we are very confident in the mechanical integrity of the well and we are equally confident that the environment and community are not at risk. We will continue to be transparent with the Department with the substantial data we have that proves that the methane of concern exists naturally at the surface and subsurface in this part of the state, long before our activity, and is not in any way related to our operations." NewsClips: DEP Fines Range Resources $8.9 Million For Shale Gas Well DEP Seeks Record Fine OF $8.9M From Range Resources DEP Seeks $8.9 Million Fine From Range Resources PA Wants Record $8.9M Fine Against Drilling Firm Conventional Oil Drillers Say DEP Overstepping Its Authority PA Environment Digest Google+ Circle, Blogs, Twitter Feeds PA Environment Digest now has a Google+ Circle called Green Works In PA. 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. You’ll receive as­it­happens postings on Pennsylvania environmental news, daily

NewsClips and links to the weekly Digest and videos. Also take advantage of these related services from Crisci Associates­­ PA Environment Digest Twitter Feed: On Twitter, sign up to receive instant updates from: PAEnviroDigest. PA Environment Daily Blog: provides daily environmental NewsClips and significant stories and announcements on environmental topics in Pennsylvania of immediate value. Sign up and receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. NEW! Add your constructive comment to any blog posting. PA Capitol Digest Daily Blog to get updates every day on Pennsylvania State Government, including NewsClips, coverage of key press conferences and more. Sign up and receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. PA Capitol Digest Twitter Feed: Don't forget to sign up to receive the PA Capitol Digest Twitter feed to get instant updates on other news from in and around the Pennsylvania State Capitol. Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule/Gov’s 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 (June 22): <> Click Here for full House Bill Calendar. Senate (June 22): Senate Bill 307 (Yudichak­D­Luzerne) establishing an independent counsel for the Environmental Quality Board. <> Click Here for full Senate Bill Calendar. Committee Meeting Agendas This Week Note: It's budget time, Committee meetings can be scheduled with little warning. House: the Consumer Affairs Committee meets to consider House Bill 48 (Godshall­R­Montgomery) authorizing the Environmental Quality Board to set construction standards for private water wells (sponsor summary), House Bill 965 (Godshall­R­Montgomery) requiring additional oversight of agency regulations under the Regulatory Review Act (sponsor summary); the Transportation Committee meets to consider Senate Bill 385 (Pileggi­R­

Delaware) providing incentives for development around transit stations. <> Click Here for full House Committee Schedule. Senate: the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee meet to consider Senate Bill 875 (Bartolotta­R­Fayette) encouraging the reuse of treated mine water for fracking gas wells (sponsor summary). <> Click Here for full Senate Committee Schedule. Bills Pending In Key Committees Here are links to key Standing Committees in the House and Senate and the bills pending in each­­ House Appropriations Education Environmental Resources and Energy Consumer Affairs Gaming Oversight Human Services Judiciary Liquor Control Transportation Links for all other Standing House Committees Senate Appropriations Environmental 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 Senate June 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 29, 30 House June 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30

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. Bills On Governor's Desk The following bills were given final approval by the Senate and House and are now on the Governor's desk for action­­ Moon Lake Transfer: Senate Bill 699 (Yudichak­D­Luzerne) transfers of Moon Lake Park from Luzerne County to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. A House Fiscal Note and summary are available. Senate/House Bills Moving The following bills of interest saw action this week in the House and Senate­­ House Moon Lake Transfer: Senate Bill 699 (Yudichak­D­Luzerne) transfers of Moon Lake Park from Luzerne County to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. A House Fiscal Note and summary are available. The bill now goes to the Governor for his action. Wind Farms: House Bill 188 (Sonney­R­Erie) authorizing wind farms in Agricultural Security Areas was amended and reported from the House Rules Committee on concurrence and was passed by the House. It now returns to the Senate for a concurrence vote. Senate EQB Counsel: Senate Bill 307 (Yudichak­D­Luzerne) establishing an independent counsel for the Environmental Quality Board was reported out of the Senate Appropriations Committee and is now on the Senate Calendar for action. A Senate Fiscal Note and summary are available. News From The Capitol Sen. Yudichak: Legislation On Moon Lake Park Transfer Goes To Governor Sen. John Yudichak (D­Luzerne) Wednesday praised House passage of Senate Bill 699 which will allow for the transfer of Moon Lake Park from Luzerne County to the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

"Utilizing DCNR's resources and management expertise, Moon Lake Park will benefit

from significant state improvements that will return it to its rightful place as a public asset and a recreational jewel for the citizens of northeastern Pennsylvania," Sen. Yudichak said.

House passage of the bill was part of the process that started in January when DCNR signed an agreement with Luzerne County for the transfer and announced $1 million in improvements at Moon Lake. The state investment includes a new boat ramp, new trails and trail heads.

"I appreciate the attention House Speaker Mike Turzai, House Majority Leader Dave Reed, House State Government Committee Chairman Daryl Metcalfe (R­Butler) gave to this important legislation for Luzerne County. Clearly, a strong bi­partisan consensus was built around SB 699 with the help of my Senate colleague Sen. Lisa Baker (R­Luzerne) and Rep. Gerald Mullery (D­Luzerne) in the House," Sen. Yudichak said.

The Plymouth Township Park was purchased by Luzerne County in 1968, the same year federal and state funds had became available through Project 70. This bill releases the park from the restrictions of the state's Project 70 Land Acquisition and Borrowing Act.

Former DCNR Secretary Ellen Ferretti and current Secretary Cindy Dunn were instrumental in putting together the Commonwealth's plan to assume ownership of Moon Lake Park.

The House approved the bill 189 to 0. The legislation now goes to the governor for his signature.

A House Fiscal Note and summary are available. NewsClip: Moon Lake Park Transfer Bill OK’d Senate Committee Considers Bill On Reuse Of Treated Mine Water June 22 The Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee is scheduled to meet on June 22 to consider Senate Bill 875 (Bartolotta­R­Fayette) encouraging the reuse of treated mine water for fracking gas wells (sponsor summary).

The meeting will be held in the Rules Committee Room off the floor of the Senate at the call of the Senate.

Sen. Gene Yaw (R­Lycoming) serves as the Majority Chair of the Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, email: gyaw@pasen.gov, and Sen. John Yudichak (D­Luzerne) serves as Minority Chair, email: yudichak@pasenate.com. NewsClip: Bids On Banning Mine #4 Reclamation Higher Than Expected House Committee Considers Water Well Standards, Regulatory Review Bills June 24 The House Consumer Affairs Committee is scheduled to meet on June 24 to consider bills setting standards for the construction of private water wells and provide additional review of regulations by the General Assembly. The bills include­­ ­­ House Bill 48 (Godshall­R­Montgomery) authorizing the Environmental Quality Board to set construction standards for private water wells (sponsor summary); and ­­ House Bill 965 (Godshall­R­Montgomery) requiring additional oversight of agency regulations under the Regulatory Review Act (sponsor summary). (Click Here for comments by the PA Environmental Council raising concerns about the bill.)

The meeting will be held in Room 60 of the East Wing of the Capitol starting at 9:15.

Rep. Robert Godshall (R­Montgomery) serves as Majority Chair of the Committee, email: rgodshal@pahousegop.com, and Rep. Peter Daley (D­Washington) serves as Minority Chair, email: pdaley@pahouse.net. NewsClips: No Contamination To Susquehanna From Chemical Fire DEP: No Swimming, Boating, Fishing In Conewago Creek Cleanup, Monitoring Continues After Chemical Fire Fish Commission Assessing Damage After Chemical Fire EPA Tests 4 Wells Following Miller Chemical Fire What If Eagle Eats Dead Fish From Conewago Creek? News From Around The State DEP Publishes Updated Nonpoint Source Management Plan For Comment The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the June 20 PA Bulletin it has developed a draft Nonpoint Source Management Plan­2014 Update for public comment designed to reduce nonpoint source pollution­­ stormwater and agricultural runoff­­ and meet pollution reduction milestones.

The draft Management Plan follows the EPA guidance by providing the following elements: goals, objectives, and strategies to protect and restore water quality; efforts to strengthen working partnerships with appropriate state, interstate, regional and local entities, private sector groups, citizens groups and Federal agencies; a balanced approach to addressing nonpoint source pollution that emphasizes both statewide programs and on the ground projects to abate existing problems and prevent new ones; and the use of periodic feedback to evaluate progress and make appropriate program revisions.

A copy of the draft Plan is available online. The Plan was last updated in 2008. Comments are due July 20 and can be submitted through DEP new eComment tool or

submitted to the DEP Policy Office, Department of Environmental Protection, P.O. Box 2063, Harrisburg, PA 17105­2063 or send email to: ecomment@pa.gov. NewsClips: PA Substantially Off Track In Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Efforts Conservation Groups: PA Water Clean Up Efforts Falling Short EPA Finds PA Significantly Off Track To Meet Bay Goals EPA: PA Falling Far Behind Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Plan EPA: PA Needs To Cleanup Up Chesapeake Bay PA Lags Behind In Chesapeake Cleanup Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal DEP Expands Drought Watch From 27 To 37 Counties The Department of Environmental Protection Wednesday expanded its drought watch declaration from 27 to 37 counties across Pennsylvania.

Despite several recent precipitation events,

portions of Pennsylvania continue to have below­average precipitation, below­average groundwater levels, and in some areas, below­average surface water levels.

The 10 additional counties under the drought watch issued today are: Bedford, Blair, Centre, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lehigh, Mifflin, and Northampton.

The 27 counties that remain under drought watch are: Berks, Bradford, Cambria, Carbon, Clinton, Columbia, Indiana, Lackawanna, Lawrence, Luzerne, Lycoming, McKean, Mercer, Monroe, Montour, Northumberland, Pike, Potter, Schuylkill, Snyder, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Tioga, Union, Wayne, Westmoreland, and Wyoming. These counties were originally put on a drought watch on March 24.

The expanded declaration was recommended following a June 8 meeting of the state's Drought Task Force. The very dry fall and below­normal precipitation from January to May continues to contribute to low groundwater and surface water levels throughout the state.

Many counties, including some under drought watch, have recently had rapid, heavy rain events. These rain events cause erosion and typically do not improve conditions for groundwater and soil moisture.

A drought watch declaration is the first and least­severe level of the state's three drought classifications. It calls for a voluntary five percent reduction in non­essential water use and puts large water consumers on notice to begin planning for the possibility of reduced water supplies.

All Pennsylvanians are advised to heed this drought watch by conserving their water use and consumption. To reduce their water use, residents can: ­­ Run water only when absolutely necessary; and avoid keeping water flowing while brushing teeth, or turning on the shower many minutes before use; ­­ Check for household leaks – a leaking toilet can waste up to 200 gallons of water each day; Run dishwashers and washing machines only with full loads; ­­ Replace older appliances with high­efficiency, front­loading models that use about 30 percent less water and 40 to 50 percent less energy; and ­­ Install low­flow plumbing fixtures and aerators on faucets.

DEP will notify all water suppliers in the affected areas of the need to monitor their supplies, particularly those that rely upon groundwater, and update their drought contingency plans as necessary.

DEP also offers water conservation recommendations and water audit procedures for commercial and industrial users, such as food processors, hotels, and educational institutions.

For more information, visit DEP’s Drought Information webpage. NewsClips: PA Drought Watch Expanded To 10 More Counties Most Of PA Under Drought Watch NRCS Reminds Landowners To Apply For Chesapeake Bay Grants Denise Coleman, State Conservationist for the Pennsylvania USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service is reminding partners to submit applications for the second round of funding for the new Regional Conservation Partnership Program.

In May, USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack announced the opening of this second round of funding, making $235 available nationwide. Pennsylvania NRCS anticipates receiving approximately $900,000 for state projects.

RCPP, created by the 2014 Farm Bill, focuses on public­private partnerships to enable private companies, local communities and other non­government partners a way to invest in conservation efforts to improve our water supply, enhance soil health, support wildlife habitat, and protect agricultural viability.

In addition to USDA financial assistance funds, partners will expand upon conservation efforts of the NRCS by contributing funds and in­kind services such as outreach and technical assistance.

Funding for RCPP is allocated to projects in three different categories: Critical Conservation Areas, which locally includes the Chesapeake Bay, National, and State.

Eligible partners interested in applying should consult the announcement for program funding, which outlines requirements for proposal applications.

For additional information on RCPP, Click Here. NewsClips: PA Substantially Off Track In Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Efforts Conservation Groups: PA Water Clean Up Efforts Falling Short EPA Finds PA Significantly Off Track To Meet Bay Goals EPA: PA Falling Far Behind Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Plan EPA: PA Needs To Cleanup Up Chesapeake Bay PA Lags Behind In Chesapeake Cleanup Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal Halfmoon Creek Restoration In Centre County Improves Trout Stream In an effort to restore wild trout population on a three mile stretch of Halfmoon Creek at Centre Stables, significant stream restoration, spearheaded by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, remains ongoing thanks to the Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation.

Halfmoon Creek, from its headwaters on Bald Eagle Mountain in western Centre County to the confluence with Spruce Creek near Pennsylvania Furnace in Huntingdon County, is designated as having impaired water quality and degraded fish habitat from agricultural runoff.

Halfmoon Creek serves as a major tributary to Spruce Creek and the Little Juniata River, both nationally famous for "blue ribbon" trout waters and an economic engine to the local communities. With impaired stream water from Halfmoon Creek, the future of those waters could be jeopardized.

The entire watershed was listed with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency in 2008 as not meeting its Clean Water Act designated use and is a "priority watershed" for restoration by the Pennsylvania DEP Northcentral Regional Office.

A pair of grants to the Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation are focused on restoring a 7,200­foot stream segment near the village of Marengo. Known for its location at Centre Stables, the project encompasses a particularly important site adjacent to an upstream reach of 1.5 miles, where several contiguous stream restoration projects have already been

implemented to address similar trout habitat and water quality problems. Restoration practices will include: over 3,400 feet of log and stone fish habitat structures;

2,500 feet of streambank bioengineering and shrub plantings to reduce sediment and lower summer water temperatures; 2,000 feet of cattle fencing; and three gravel stream crossings for livestock and farm equipment.

The Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation received a $148,404 grant from the Department of Environmental Protection's 2013 Growing Greener Grant Program to continue restoration of fish habitat and improvement of water quality in Halfmoon Creek.

Stream restoration work began in 2014. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's "Partners for Fish and Wildlife" program, the Foundation for California University of Pennsylvania, Habitat Forever and Seven Willows LLC are collaborating with the Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation on the Halfmoon Creek stream restoration design and construction.

Students at the Center for Watershed Stewardship at Penn State also completed stream surveys and trout census work in 2004 and 2005 prior to the restoration process.

Students found self­reproducing wild trout at Weaver Forest upstream of Centre Stables and at a downstream site. No trout were found at Centre Stables, thus the goal of this current project is to restore a wild trout population over the combined length of more than 3 miles.

The published report with fisheries data is online. More than 30 graduate students in the program received practical educational experience in watershed stewardship now being applied in their professional careers.

For more information on activities and events, visit the Wildlife For Everyone Endowment Foundation website. NewsClips: Halfmoon Creek Restoration Underway PA Substantially Off Track In Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Efforts Conservation Groups: PA Water Clean Up Efforts Falling Short EPA Finds PA Significantly Off Track To Meet Bay Goals EPA: PA Falling Far Behind Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Plan EPA: PA Needs To Cleanup Up Chesapeake Bay PA Lags Behind In Chesapeake Cleanup Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal June Newsletter Available From Stroud Water Resource Center The June newsletter is now available from the Stroud Water Research Center featuring articles on­ ­­ Headwaters Now Better Protected By EPA Rule ­­ Trees Protect White Clay Creek ­­ Spotlight On Stephanie Eisenbise ­­ Stroud Receives 2 New Conservation Awards ­­ Stroud Center Scientists Sharing Science ­­ Click Here to sign up for your own copy. NewsClip: Editorial: We’ll Drink To EPA Water Rule DEP: Update On Aftermath Of Miller Chemical Plant Fire, Refrain From Using Creek

The Department of Environmental Protection Friday issued the following update on the cleanup efforts and environmental impacts of last week’s fire at Miller Chemical, a fertilizer plant in Adams County.

While the Conewago Creek is no longer discolored from firefighting runoff, the recent rainfall has increased turbidity (cloudiness) levels in the creek. Citizens should refrain from recreating or fishing in the creek.

Miller Chemical is a manufacturer of water soluble fertilizers used for commercial agricultural crops as well a supplier of soil mixtures. Due to the large amount of water used in firefighting efforts, contaminated runoff had a significant impact to Slagle’s Run and the South Branch of the Conewago Creek.

More than two inches of rain fell on the cleanup site this week and pushed the on­site containment measures to capacity. Thursday’s rain caused a contaminated runoff retention trench to overflow and the water breached an earthen embankment.

As of Friday morning, runoff was again entering Slagle’s Run. Impacts from the runoff are expected to be minor.

Results of samples taken Thursday night indicate concentrations of contaminants in the contained water are greatly reduced from what was in the firefighting runoff.

With more heavy rain expected this weekend, additional efforts are being taken to increase on­site storage capacity. These efforts include increasing the number of onsite storage tanks and limiting stormwater entering the site.

Efforts are being made to remove contaminated runoff water currently onsite for proper treatment and disposal. Trucks are on standby waiting to start moving material off site as soon as a disposal option is finalized. This would free up additional storage capacity.

The New Oxford Municipal Authority’s water intake located on the South Branch of the Conewago Creek was shut down during the fire and remains closed. New Oxford is receiving water through an interconnection with the York Water Company and other outside sources. Mandatory restrictions remain in place and have been effective in allowing NOMA to meet the immediate needs of its customers.

East Berlin, located downstream on the Conewago, is operating all five of its wells. No problems were observed. Two of its wells closest to the creek had been taken out of service as a precaution.

No significant impacts to the Susquehanna River have been observed. There is no discoloration to the river water.

DEP staff is reaching out to all of the public water suppliers. Wrightsville is the nearest downstream public water system that draws water from the Susquehanna River. Results of samples taken at Wrightsville show normal background readings. Wrightsville has turned its pumps on and is again pumping water from the river.

Lancaster and Columbia also draw water from the Susquehanna River. Both operators report no significant changes to the condition of their raw water. Sample results show normal background concentrations for the current condition of the river after recent rain.

While DEP does not regulate private wells, the department shared with the federal Environmental Protection Agency information from local citizens who were concerned about possible impacts to their wells. On Tuesday, EPA took samples from four wells it had identified as most likely to be impacted by contaminated runoff. Preliminary results from those samples

indicated levels did not exceed the Maximum Contaminant Levels (MCL). Owners of private wells should continue to monitor their water. If an owner of a private

well wishes to take further action they can work with a private lab to monitor for Nitrate, Nitrite, Iron, Manganese and Total Organic Carbon (TOC).

Well owners can find more general information at DEP’s Private Water Wells webpage. NewsClips: No Contamination To Susquehanna From Chemical Fire DEP: No Swimming, Boating, Fishing In Conewago Creek Cleanup, Monitoring Continues After Chemical Fire Fish Commission Assessing Damage After Chemical Fire EPA Tests 4 Wells Following Miller Chemical Fire What If Eagle Eats Dead Fish From Conewago Creek? Attorney General Files Charges Against Former Steelton Water Plant Superintendent Attorney General Kathleen G. Kane Thursday announced her office has filed criminal charges against the former Steelton Water Treatment Plant superintendent, who is accused of failing to properly monitor filters at the plant and submitting false records.

Daniel P. Scheitrum, 42, 665 Woodview St., Steelton, Dauphin County is charged with two counts each of tampering with public records or information and violation of the Safe Drinking Water Act.

The Office of Attorney General's Environmental Crimes Unit started an investigation of Scheitrum after receiving a referral from the state Department of Environmental Protection. The referral asserted that Scheitrum, the certified operator of the plant, intentionally reported inaccurate data related to drinking water testing to DEP.

The Attorney General's investigation showed that to be true, according to a criminal complaint. One of Scheitrum’s responsibilities as the certified operator was to record individual filter effluent every 15 minutes and to notify DEP any time the levels exceeded the levels specified in the Safe Drinking Water Act.

Scheitrum failed to record the data every 15 minutes, the complaint alleges. Moreover, he failed to record the IFE during a 108­day period in 2013 and submitted electronic reports to DEP during that period stating the IFE monitoring was being done as required, investigators allege.

Scheitrum was arraigned Thursday morning. His bail was set at $25,000 unsecured. A preliminary hearing is tentatively scheduled for July 31. PA Housing Agency Requests Proposals For Drilling Impact Fee Housing Funding The PA Housing Finance Agency Monday issued a Request for Proposals for projects to improve the availability and affordability of housing in the Marcellus Shale region of the state. The funding to address housing needs comes from Marcellus Shale impact fees.

The deadline for applications is August 14. Those fees are directed to, and administered from, the PA Housing Affordability and

Rehabilitation Enhancement Fund. This year's funding includes $5 million received in 2015 for wells drilled or active in 2014, as well as Marcellus Shale impact fee funds provided to municipalities that exceeded a certain percentage or dollar amount set by law.

Eligible applicants for the 2015 RFP include Pennsylvania counties that have adopted ordinances authorizing the imposition of an impact fee and that have unconventional gas wells.

"This funding is helping to address the housing shortage in Marcellus Shale counties," said PHFA Executive Director and CEO Brian A. Hudson Sr. "We have been impressed with the resourcefulness of local governments and their ability to use this funding to address their own unique housing challenges. They have been able to customize their use of this funding to achieve the greatest local results."

The RFP stresses the agency's desire to fund projects that will leverage other funds and partnerships to improve housing in a community. Proposals must ensure that at least 30 percent of any funds awarded will be used to help people or families with incomes below 50 percent of the median area income. Also, proposals cannot serve people or families with incomes above 200 percent of the median area income.

Additional requirements are described in detail in the RFP available online. Webinars PHFA will host two public information sessions during which potential applicants can

ask questions and get clarification about the requirements of the RFP. These will be held via webinar on July 1 and July 16. More information about these sessions will be posted on the PHFA website.

Local leaders seeking to apply for funding are advised to check the attachment with the RFP, since some counties that were eligible in 2014 may not be eligible this year, due to a drop in the number of active wells in some areas.

For more information, visit the PHFA PHARE Plan webpage. PA Land Trust Association Statement Supporting Severance Tax Proposal The PA Land Trust Association Tuesday began circulating this statement of support for Gov. Wolf’s proposed severance tax on natural gas production—

The Pennsylvania Land Trust Association, which is made up of 75 of Pennsylvania’s leading land conservation organizations, endorses the Governor’s proposed natural gas severance tax proposal and asks you to support it. The Association also generally favors any other fair and reasonable proposal that dedicates a significant portion of the tax revenue to the conservation and restoration of Pennsylvania’s natural resources.

The Association, favors such proposals because: — Natural gas development imposes costs on our shared environment—some immediately apparent, some which may take years to become evident. — History demonstrates that those who extract natural resources seldom if ever fully compensate the public for the costs of the extraction to our shared environment (for example, pollution from old mines and gas wells). The result is a net loss to our shared natural resources — A natural gas severance tax may redress this situation by allocating the revenue to reinvest in public natural resources or by addressing public needs more broadly, reducing budgetary pressures that otherwise would squeeze government investments in protecting our land and water. — 80 percent of the severance tax revenue would come from out of state. Pennsylvanians bear the burden of severance taxes charged by every other major gas producing state; it’s equitable that Pennsylvanians too should benefit from severance tax revenues. (Though Pennsylvania’s

natural gas impact fee does deliver revenue, it is far less than the industry pays in severance taxes in other states.)

The Association notes that the Governor’s proposal boosts the Commonwealth’s ability to have enough inspectors to ensure that gas operations comply with laws that protect public health and our shared land and water resources.

The proposal also invests in solar and other energy technologies that will reduce the need for industry and government to condemn land for new energy infrastructure; reduce damage to wildlife habitat and loss of agricultural production associated with energy infrastructure; and provide water quality and other environmental benefits.

Strong needs exist for boosting the Commonwealth’s investments in the conservation of our land, air, water and wildlife. The Governor’s proposal takes a good step in addressing the energy sector but substantially greater and broader investments in the protection and restoration of Pennsylvania’s natural resources are much needed.

The Association looks forward to working with legislators in this and future years to address these environmental investment needs.

­­ Andrew M. Loza, Executive Director, PA Land Trust Association. NewsClips: Erie County To Receive $260K In Gas Drilling Fees Wolf: Tax The Gas industry To Pay For Education Op­Ed: PA Needs Wolf Plan To Invest In Energy Wolf, Lawmakers Meet Over Budget 2 Weeks For Deadline Republicans Claim Agreement On Structural Deficit Budget Deficit Lower Than Though, House GOP Says Keep PA Beautiful: Winners Of Great American Cleanup Of PA Video Contest The winning entry of the annual Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Great American Cleanup of Pennsylvania video contest, sponsored by the PA Waste Industry Association and the Department of Environmental Protection, was submitted by Tri County Community Action for the Great Harrisburg Cleanup. They received a $200 cash prize.

The video captured residents of all ages cleaning the neighborhoods of South Allison Hill, Downtown Improvement District, Friends of Midtown and Camp Curtin. The cleanup resulted in the removal and proper disposal of 3,600 pounds of electronics, more than 32,000 pounds of trash and more than 665 tires. The cleanup involved over 327 volunteers!

Two runners up received a cash prize of $100 each and included the Fayette County Cultural Trust’s Connellsville Cleanup. This commemorative video was a collection of photos from a competition among various groups in Connellsville to see who could collect the most trash.

The groups included the Mayor of Connellsville team, Central Fellowship Church, Connellsville Wal­Mart, Connellsville Wolverines Football Team, Project Talent Workshop, Connellsville Garden Club, Yough River Trail Council, and the Fayette County Cultural Trust. Gardens were planted, hiking trail steps were built, and over 100 bags of trash and 25 tires were collected.

Delaware and Lehigh National Heritage Corridor also was a runner up and received a cash prize. The Delaware and Lehigh Earth Day Cleanup covered a distance of 3.5 miles. A total

of 83 volunteers from Bethlehem’s Liberty High School football team and residents of Freemansburg collected nearly 45 bags of trash, 8 tires and 6 bulky items. Local merchants, Lehigh Pizza and Feasta Pizza, donated food for the volunteers.

“Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful would like to thank all those who participated in the 2015 Great American Cleanup of PA Video Contest, making it a huge success. The contest generated a lot of excitement and friendly competition among participants,” said Shannon Reiter, President of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful. “These videos, viewed by nearly 12,000 people, were a fun way to recognize the efforts of local organizations and promote and encourage our collective mission of making our communities clean and beautiful. “

Each year Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful provides an opportunity for community groups and individuals to showcase their local programs via the Great American Cleanup of PA Video Contest. KPB received fourteen videos from diverse groups across the state showcasing programs that were equally diverse.

Winners were chosen according to who received the most likes on Facebook during the voting period. All videos can be viewed on the Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Facebook page. NewsClips: Keystone Landfill May Have Solved Leachate Mystery DEP Approves PPG Dump Site Cleanup Plan Keep PA Beautiful: 3 Allegheny County Men Convicted Of Illegal Dumping Three Allegheny County men have received written citations for illegally dumping trash. Charles Gilbert Scott (65) of Braddock, Michael Paul Leese (33) of Pittsburgh and Terrell Montgomery (46) of Pittsburgh were found guilty of littering on three separate occasions by the Honorable Jeffrey A. Manning, according to Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful.

Scott was fined $96, Leese was fined $571 and Montgomery was fined $371.

In all instances the arresting officer was Detective Matthew A. Lebedda from the Pittsburgh Police Department.

A fourth person, Daniel Schweikart (44) of Pittsburgh, was issued a written citation by Pittsburgh's Anti­Litter Coordinator Melissa Rosenfeld for littering and dumping by vehicle. The case is awaiting plea.

All citations were made with the help of surveillance cameras donated to the City of Pittsburgh by Keep PA Beautiful.

The cameras are rotated among undisclosed problem locations in the City of Pittsburgh and provide instant wireless transmission of site activity, photo documentation of license plates at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour and clear photos of activity day or night.

Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful has an ongoing Camera Loan Program available to Pennsylvania municipalities.

“The cameras provided by Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful have been an invaluable tool for the City of Pittsburgh in prosecuting illegal dumpers, where the first offense could result in a $5,000 fine,” said Rosenfeld.

“Illegal dumping is not only detrimental to the environment but also brings a financial

burden to our local communities as they are often the ones left to clean up the mess,” explained Shannon Reiter, President of Keep PA Beautiful.

Keep PA Beautiful found that on average, it costs local communities $600/ton or nearly $3,000 for an average illegal dump cleanup.

“We are pleased to play a role in enhancing surveillance efforts to help stop illegal dumping in the City of Pittsburgh and we are grateful for the efforts of local authorities to identify illegal dumpers and hold them accountable,” Reiter further explained.

For proper disposal options in Allegheny County call Allegheny CleanWays at 412­381­1301.

To learn about what you can do to prevent illegal dumping in your community, visit the Illegal Dump Free PA website NewsClips: Keystone Landfill May Have Solved Leachate Mystery DEP Approves PPG Dump Site Cleanup Plan Ohio River Sweep Set For June 20, Volunteers Needed The Ohio River Valley Water Sanitation Commission will hold its annual Ohio River Sweep on June 20 where volunteers cleanup riverbanks to collect tons of trash and debris along the Ohio River and all of its tributaries, including in Pennsylvania.

There are Ohio River Sweep cleanup locations in Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, Fayette, Washington and Westmoreland counties.

Click Here to contact Pennsylvania coordinators to volunteer for the cleanup. PA Coal Alliance Opposes EPA Clean Power Rule In Coal Caucus Hearing Pennsylvania Coal Alliance CEO, John Pippy addressed legislators Tuesday on the effects of the Environmental Protection Agency's Clean Power Plan on Pennsylvania's jobs, electric rates and economy at a House and Senate Coal Caucus hearing.

The EPA's proposed rule, said to be published this summer, circumvents state's rights by mandating energy policy disguised as environmental regulation.

As proposed, Pennsylvania would reduce carbon emissions by 32 percent over 2012 levels, prematurely transferring utilities away from coal to less reliable sources of electricity. The Department of Environmental Protection projected, if the rule is enacted as proposed, coal use by Pennsylvania's coal fleet will decrease by 68 percent, jeopardizing the 36,000 industry­related jobs and the annual $4 billion contribution to the state economy.

Coal continues to provide 40 percent of Pennsylvania's electric supply, securing the state's footing as one of the top three electric­generating states and providing stable and reliable electric rates both lower than the national average and 17­37 percent lower than its neighboring northeastern states.

There are 2.4 million middle to low­income families in Pennsylvania that spend 19 – 22 percent of their after­tax income on energy. According to a study by the National Economic Research Associates, rule compliance will raise Pennsylvania's electric rates 14 – 22 percent.

"The EPA has taken advantage of the current market conditions to deliver a devastating blow to the coal industry. While the price of natural gas is sure to fluctuate and the demand for

electricity to rise as the economy strengthens, this regulation will be the cheap shot that cripples the industry from rebounding when the demand market returns," Pippy said.

Total carbon emissions from the U.S. coal­fired fleet are declining and account for less than 3 percent globally. The Energy Information Administration reports non­U.S. carbon emissions are projected to grow by 41 percent between 2010 and 2030.

As the U.S. is forced to divest from coal and electric rates increase, jobs in energy intensive trade­exposed industries such as steel, manufacturing and chemicals that Pennsylvania relies on will go overseas where electricity from coal­fired power plants is cheaper, but the process is far less environmentally friendly.

This will essentially be a transfer of emissions globally, while the Commonwealth loses the economic benefit and more carbon emissions are added to the same air.

Gov. Wolf and DEP Secretary Quigley's recent comments on protecting the role of coal in Pennsylvania and the Commonwealth's position as a net energy exporter when developing this plan has given the industry hope.

However, without significant changes, the proposed rule does not give enough flexibility for coal to remain viable in Pennsylvania.

Pippy concluded by commending the House and Senate Coal Caucuses for taking the lead on this issue and working to protect the Commonwealth from the proposed rule's impacts on the state's economy, jobs and ratepayers.

A copy of the PCA testimony is available online. Copies of all testimony from the hearing are available from Sen. Gene Yaw (R­Lycoming), Majority Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee.

For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Coal Alliance website. NewsClips: Study: Fugitive Methane Can Cause A Cascade Of Contamination Editorial: Greenhouse Gas Reduction Effort Good For All Clean Coal Research Projects Falter Pope Urges Environmental Action In Encyclical Pope Praised For Urging Climate Action Championing Environment, Pope Takes Aim At Global Capitalism Pope Blames Markets For Environment’s Ills CBF: Pope Sets Example For Government Leaders July 7 Hearing On Proposed Natural Gas­Fired Power Plant In Luzerne County The Department of Environmental Protection will host a public hearing to take testimony from residents regarding an application filed by Moxie Freedom Energy, LLC of Virginia for an air quality plan approval to construct and operate a 1050­megawatt natural gas­fired power plant in Salem Township, Luzerne County.

The hearing will take place on July 7, from 6­9 p.m. at Berwick High School, 1100 Fowler Avenue, Berwick, PA, 18603.

“Natural gas­fired power plants are a relatively new concept in this part of the state, so it is important that residents be allowed to voice their opinions on the permitting process with projects like this one,” said Mike Bedrin, Director of DEP’s Northeast Regional Office in Wilkes­Barre.

Moxie Freedom submitted an air quality plan approval application to the department on October 6, 2014. The company plans to utilize a combustion gas turbine and a steam turbine to produce electricity.

Each combined turbine and a duct burner will exclusively fire pipeline­quality natural gas. The burners will be equipped with selective catalytic reduction to minimize nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions and oxidation catalysts to minimize carbon monoxide (CO) and volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions.

The project, known as the Electric Generation Plant, once fully operational, will have the capability to produce 1050 Mega Watts (MW) of electricity which will then be distributed to the power grid for use.

DEP published a notice of the application received in the Pennsylvania Bulletin on January 24, 2015 and asked for public comment. No public comments have been received. DEP published a notice of the intent to issue a plan approval in the Pennsylvania Bulletin on May 30, 2015 asking for public comment on the project.

A notice of the public hearing was advertised in the Press Enterprise newspaper on June 4, 5, and 6, 2015 and in the PA Bulletin on May 30, 2015.

Residents who are unable to attend the meeting are encouraged to participate in the department’s public comment process.

Public comments on the Plan Approval must be received by 4 p.m. on July 17, 2015 and can be mailed to Mark Wejkszner, Air Quality Program Manager, 2 Public Square, Wilkes­Barre, PA 18701 or send email to: mwejkszner@pa.gov.

A copy of the plan approval is available at the DEP Northeast Regional Office located at 2 Public Square, Wilkes­Barre, 18701. People wishing to review the plan approval application can do so by calling 570­826­2511.

Individuals in need of an accommodation as provided for in the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 should contact Colleen Connolly at 570­826­2035 or through the Pennsylvania AT&T Relay Service at 1­800­654­5984 (TDD). NewsClips: Cecil OKs Gas Compressor With Conditions Cecil Compressor Station May Not Be Built South Fayette Sets Hearing On Revised Drilling Ordinance No Decision For Invenergy Zoning Challenge PUC Releases Outlook Report For 2014 Natural Gas Markets The Public Utility Commission Thursday released the 2014 Pennsylvania Gas Outlook Report, which provides insight into trends in the natural gas market, both nationwide and within Pennsylvania.

The report summarizes the financial and supply data for the state’s natural gas distribution companies and looks at changes and trends in many aspects of the natural gas market, including usage, financial status of utilities, and market pricing.

Among the key findings of the report are­­ ­­ Total Gas Consumption: Total natural gas consumption in Pennsylvania increased from 706.2 Billion cubic feet in 1997 to 1,090 Bcf in 2013. ­­ Electric Generation: Natural gas consumption for electric generation increased from 21

billion cubic feet in 1997 to 414 Bcf in 2013­­ from 3 percent of total usage to 38 percent of total usage. There are 10,003 megawatts of natural gas fired electric generation in Pennsylvania, about 24 percent of generating capacity. As of December 2013 there are 11,609 MW of proposed new natural gas fired generation capacity proposed in Pennsylvania, although typically about 25 percent actually gets built. ­­ Marcellus Shale Production: Marcellus shale production has risen from 2.7 Bcfd in October 2010 to over 16 Bcfd in January 2015. Despite this vast increase in production, many portions of eastern Pennsylvania and New England are still subject to higher priced gas in general, as well as dramatic spikes in price during cold snaps in the winter heating season. These price differences are mostly caused by a lack of pipeline capacity to transport the glut of supply to the markets where it is most needed. ­­ New Pipeline Projects: There are almost 12 Bcfd of pipeline projects slated to come online in 2015 in the Northeast region which are listed in the report. ­­ Dramatic Shift In Gas Use: There has been a dramatic shift in the use of natural gas from primarily residential and industrial uses to electric power generation from 1997 to 2013. The following chart outlines this shift. Reasons for this increase include more supply of natural gas and the resultant lower cost for natural gas, the advancement of efficient natural gas generation technology, and retirements of older coal­fired plants. Natural Gas Deliveries By End Use

Use 1997 2013

Electric Power 3 percent 38 percent

Residential 39 percent 25 percent

Commercial 22 percent 15 percent

Industrial 36 percent 22 percent

­­ Gas Customers: There are approximately 2.8 million natural gas customers in Pennsylvania, with about 2.6 million of these being residential customers.4 There are 31 regulated natural gas utility companies in Pennsylvania, and 10 of these are major distribution companies with gross revenues greater than $40 million per year. ­­ Gas Usage: In total, gas usage rose by 10.9 percent between 2012 and 2013, while customer count remained rather flat, rising only 0.8 percent. The reason for this seeming mismatch of rising gas usage with relatively little customer growth is due to a combination of two factors. First, the vast majority of the new gas customers are large volume transportation customers (this customer class saw a 7 percent increase in customer count in 2013), thereby posting a significant increase in total usage for a relatively modest increase in customer base. Second, while the number of residential customers remained steady, this customer class used much more gas per customer in 2013 over 2012, likely a result of the colder than normal temperatures in the winter heating season of 2013­2014. ­­ Price Of Gas: Henry Hub spot prices averaged $4.38 per million British thermal units

(MMBtus) in 2014, up from $3.73 in 2013. EIA predicts that the Henry Hub annual average spot price will average $3.83/MMBtu for 2015. However, based on natural gas futures contracts,18 it appears that the market expects average prices to fall for the coming year, producing an average price of $3MMBtu for 2015, dramatically lower than EIA estimates. ­­ Marcellus Wells In PA: As of Jan. 2, 2015, 18,609 unconventional drilling permit applications have been filed with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Of those applications, 8,827 unconventional wells have been drilled.

The information contained in the report is intended to be a resource for industry and academic analysts, as well as Commission staff, and is prepared to provide data about the regulated gas industry in Pennsylvania and the broader natural gas markets in the region and nationally.

A copy of the report is available online. NewsClips: DEP Fines Range Resources $8.9 Million For Shale Gas Well DEP Seeks Record Fine OF $8.9M From Range Resources DEP Seeks $8.9 Million Fine From Range Resources PA Wants Record $8.9M Fine Against Drilling Firm Conventional Oil Drillers Say DEP Overstepping Its Authority RMU Poll: Fracking Support Grows With Increased Awareness New Poll Shows Majority Of Pennsylvanians Favor Fracking Gas Pipeline Routes Key To Public Acceptance Communities Can Do Little To Keep Out PennEast Pipeline Natural Gas Leak Prompts Evacuation In Bethlehem Cecil OKs Gas Compressor With Conditions Cecil Compressor Station May Not Be Built South Fayette Sets Hearing On Revised Drilling Ordinance No Decision For Invenergy Zoning Challenge Editorial: Public Must Know Fracking Solution Content Fracking Jobs Number Changes Under Wolf Shell Buys Ethane Plant Site For $13.5 Million Shell Closes On Beaver County Land For Ethane Cracker Shall Paid $6M Less Than Market Value For Ethane Plant Site Erie County To Receive $260K In Gas Drilling Fees Consultant: Burket Shale May Go Untapped In PA Energy Industry Is Gassing Down Delco Chamber Helps Create Marcellus Coalition FirstEnergy Offering STEM Education Grants In Its Service Territories FirstEnergy Corp. is offering education grants for creative classroom projects involving science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) planned for the 2015­2016 school year in its service territories. Applications are due September 18.

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

In Pennsylvania, it includes service areas for Met­Ed, Penelec, Penn Power and West Penn Power.

STEM Classroom Grants of up to $1,000 will be awarded for teacher professional development initiatives and creative, individual classroom projects for grades pre­kindergarten through 12.

"By supporting innovative classroom experiences, FirstEnergy is encouraging students and teachers to explore the wide variety of career opportunities in the STEM fields of study," said Dee Lowery, vice president, Corporate Affairs and Community Involvement. "Recognizing the importance of these programs in building the next generation of engineers, scientists, accountants, information technologists and electricians, we are pleased this year to increase the grants from $500 to up to $1,000 each."

Winners will be notified by October 16. More than 1,000 STEM grants have been awarded to educators and youth group leaders since 1986.

Visit the FirstEnergy STEM Education Grant webpage for more information. NewsClip: Outdoor Classroom Engages Young Students Delaware Estuary Teacher Workshops August 1­7 Various Locations The Partnership for the Delaware Estuary will hold a series of 4 teacher workshops from August 1 to 7 at various locations around the estuary. Here’s the workshop schedule­­ ­­ August 1: Backyard Environments, A Hands­On Approach To Environmental Education, Philadelphia; ­­ August 5: Water Underground, Fairmount Water Works Philadelphia; ­­ August 6: Wetlands, Wildlife and Water Quality, Wilmington, DE; and ­­ August 7: Life On The Shore, Wilmington, DE.

Click Here for all the details. NewsClip: Outdoor Classroom Engages Young Students (Reprinted from the June EE Resources newsletter from the PA Association of Environmental Educators. Click Here to sign up for your own copy on the EE Resources website.) PA Firefly Festival June 27 In Tionesta, Forest County The Pennsylvania Firefly Festival will be held on June 27 from noon to midnight in Forest County, at the Black Caddis Ranch B&B, in Kellettville, 15 miles east of Tionesta on Route 666.

Visitors to the festival can expect to see the firefly displays after 10 pm, but during the day (between 12­noon and sunset) there will be exhibits, arts/crafts, music, food and fun for kids.

If you are coming for the day, we suggest you dress appropriately for the weather and hiking, but bring extra gear for the evening and inclement weather. A camp chair is a must to give you seating for the music, and later in forest to provide you comfort while viewing the fireflies.

You may want to bring a picnic or beverages, but we're hoping to have food vendors and water will be available.

Trained volunteers and naturalists will be available throughout the festival to provide

information about the fireflies, the area and "Firefly Viewing Etiquette." We encourage you to find a volunteer to help you optimize your experience and learn

how to protect the habitat of this unique natural phenomenon. For more information, visit the Pennsylvania Firefly Festival website.

(Reprinted from the June EE Resources newsletter from the PA Association of Environmental Educators. Click Here to sign up for your own copy on the EE Resources website.) House Recognizes June 21­27 National Mosquito Control Awareness Week The Pennsylvania Vector Control Association is observing the week of June 21 – June 27 along with the American Mosquito Control Association as “National Mosquito Control Awareness Week.”

A variety of Pennsylvania State Agencies are involved in protecting residents from mosquito transmitted diseases such as West Nile Virus. These include the Department of Health, Department of Environmental Protection and Department of Agriculture.

The Department of Environmental Protection coordinates mosquito surveillance and control in all 67 Pennsylvania counties collaborating with 25 county based programs. Mosquito research is performed by the Penn State University Entomology Department. Educational programs, training and materials are provided by Penn State Extension through Pesticide Education, Integrated Pest Management and Master Gardener programming.

In support of “National Mosquito Control Awareness Week,” the Pennsylvania Vector Control Association recommends residents across Pennsylvania take action to help reduce mosquito concerns in their local communities.

The best defense against West Nile Virus is to prevent mosquitoes from breeding. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water around homes, weeds, tall grass, shrubbery, and discarded tires.

Homeowners should take precautionary measures including: — Dispose of cans, buckets, plastic containers, ceramic pots, or similar containers that hold water. — Drill drainage holes in the bottom of outdoor recycling containers. — Have roof gutters cleaned regularly, particularly if the leaves from surrounding trees have a tendency to block drains. — Turn over plastic wading pools when not in use. — Turn over wheelbarrows and do not let water stagnate in birdbaths. — Aerate ornamental pools or stock them with fish. — Clean and chlorinate swimming pools and remove any water that may collect on pool covers.

Homeowners can buy mosquito control substances, such as Bti products, at lawn and garden, outdoor supply, and other stores. Bti is a naturally occurring soil bacterium that kills mosquito larva but is safe for people, pets, aquatic life, and plants. Additionally, these simple precautions can prevent mosquito bites, particularly for people who are most at risk: — Make sure screens fit tightly over doors and windows to keep mosquitoes out of homes. — Consider wearing long­sleeved shirts, long pants, and socks when outdoors, particularly when mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, or in areas known for having large numbers of mosquitoes.

— When possible, reduce outdoor exposure at dawn and dusk during peak mosquito periods. — Use insect repellants according to the manufacturer’s instructions. An effective repellant will contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Consult with a pediatrician or family physician if you have questions about the use of repellant on children, as repellant is not recommended for children under the age of two months.

For more information about West Nile Virus and the state’s surveillance and control program, visit the West Nile Virus website. For information about West Nile Virus symptoms in humans, contact the Pennsylvania Department of Health at 1­877­PA­Health. For information about pesticide safety, visit the visit the Penn State Extension webpage. NewsClips: Luzerne Conservation District Works To Keep West Nile At Bay Tire Recycling Events Diminish Mosquito Breeding Ground PA Farmland Preservation Program Supports Sustainability Of Agriculture During the June meeting of the PA Agricultural Land Preservation Board, an additional 20 farms in 15 counties were added to the state’s nation­leading farmland preservation program – totaling 1,718 acres of additional farmland.

Since the program began in 1988, federal, state, county and local governments have invested nearly $1.3 billion to preserve 508,478 acres on 4,802 farms in 57 counties for future agricultural production.

“Twenty additional farm families have taken the important first step in preserving their farms by safeguarding their land permanently,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “I thank the families for their foresight, as well as the program staff at all levels of government who have worked to protect this land.”

The board preserved farms in 15 counties: Adams, Berks, Bradford, Bucks, Chester, Cumberland, Erie, Greene, Lackawanna, Lancaster, Lehigh, Lycoming, Mifflin, Northampton and York.

The PA Agricultural Conservation Easement Purchase Program identifies properties at risk of development to slow the loss of prime farmland to non­agricultural uses. It enables state, county and local governments to purchase conservation easements, also called development rights, from owners of quality farmland.

Gov. Wolf’s proposed budget for fiscal year 2015­16 builds on Pennsylvania’s commitment to preserving valuable farmland by approving a $30 million investment through the Agricultural Conservation Easement Purchase Fund line item – a $2.5 million, or nine percent, increase over what is available in the current fiscal year.

For more information, visit Agriculture’s Farmland Preservation webpage. Summer Penn’s Stewards Newsletter Now Available From PA Parks, Forests Foundation The Summer edition of the Penn’s Stewards newsletter is now available from the PA Parks and Forests Foundation featuring articles on­­ ­­ Pennsylvania’s Heritage Of Conservation Activism ­­ 9th Annual PPFF Awards Banquet ­­ DCNR To Add 17,000 Acres To Elk State Forest In PA Wilds

­­ The Year Of The PA Forest Fire Warden ­­ EITC Educational Tax Credit Could Benefit PA Parks & Forests Foundation ­­ Friends In Action: Friends Of Weiser State Forest ­­ You Made It Happen: Projects, Events and Plans From Around The State ­­ Civilian Conservation Corps Reflections ­­ A Snapshot In Time: Rosalie Edge and Larry Schweiger ­­ The 100 Icons Of Summer ­­ New App From Game Commission ­­ We Will Remember: Paul Gipe, Bob Webber, Edward McMullen ­­ Upcoming Calendar of Events ­­ Click Here to sign up for your own copy. June 17 Resource Newsletter Now Available From DCNR The June 17 edition of the Resource newsletter is now available from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources featuring articles on­­ ­­ Ohiopyle State Park Visitors Center/Office Officially Opens ­­ State Forests, Parks Again Enroll In Deer Management Assistance Program ­­ DCNR, Dickinson College Monitor Health Of 3 Lakes In Cumberland County ­­ DCNR Seeks Information On Northeast PA Wildfires ­­ Keystone Trails Assn. Announces New Executive Director ­­ Click Here to sign up for your own copy (bottom of the page) NewsClip: Moon Lake Park Transfer Bill OK’d Lacawac Sanctuary: Summer Notes From The Forest Newsletter Now Available The Summer issue of Notes From The Forest newsletter is now available from the Lacawac Sanctuary Foundation in Northeast Pennsylvania, featuring articles on­­ ­­ Deer Exclosure Research At Lacawac Sanctuary ­­ Summer Programs At Lacawac ­­ June 25 Tapas, Tunes & Toasts ­­ Click Here to contact the Lacawac Sanctuary Foundation for more information. Fish & Boat Commission Lease Creates Somerset Lake Nature Park The Fish and Boat Commission Monday officially transferred management of its Somerset Lake property to Somerset County, formally creating the Somerset Lake Nature Park.

The transfer was consummated during a public lease signing at the lake as part of the second annual Lake Fest, a day­long outdoor event sponsored by Somerset County and the Somerset County Conservancy.

PFBC Executive Director John Arway joined PFBC Commissioner Lenny Lichvar and county commissioners John Vatavuk, Joe Betta and Pamela Tokar­Ickes at the event to sign the lease and discuss future plans for the property.

“We’re excited about our new partnership with Somerset County,” said Arway. “The Fish and Boat Commission will continue to own the lake and will maintain the fishery. But through

this strategic partnership, the county will be able to enhance the property’s recreational use and operation, making it even more appealing to the local community.”

At its May quarterly business meeting, the PFBC Board of Commissioners approved a 25­year agreement with the county. The lease, which was done at no cost to the county, requires the county to be responsible for routine maintenance of the leased property, excluding the dam area and the PFBC’s Southwest Regional Office.

The PFBC owns approximately 468 acres of property at the site in Somerset Township, which includes the 253­acre lake.

PFBC Commissioner and Somerset County resident Lenny Lichvar was instrumental in facilitating the lease with the county. He also serves on the Somerset Lake Action Committee, which is raising funds to make recreational improvements at the lake and to contribute to the future rebuilding of the lake’s dam.

“The lake and the property around it are gems in this area,” said Lichvar. “This is a popular spot for not only anglers and boaters, but outdoor enthusiasts, who come here to walk, bicycle and bird watch. This new partnership is a milestone in making the area, including Somerset, a tourist destination spot.”

County Chairman Vatavuk echoed those thoughts, noting that the lake draws tourists and pumps money into the local economy.

“Outdoor recreation is a huge business, particularly in smaller communities like Somerset,” he said. “When we draw people to the lake, they often stop in our community to shop at our grocery stores, to dine at our restaurants and to pick up supplies and equipment for their trips.”

The county’s Parks and Recreation Board will manage and oversee the Nature Park. Some of the potential future projects may include improving and completing the trail around the lake; upgrading fishing access at the Siemons Lakeview Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center by installing a covered fishing pier which complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act; and adding picnic tables, pavilions, grills and restrooms in several locations.

Plans also call for improving and reconfiguring existing boat launch areas, and providing a space at the main access area to rent boats, canoes and kayaks.

The lake was originally developed by the PFBC for public fishing and boating. It has two boat launches, with boating being restricted to electric motors only. Largemouth bass are managed under Big Bass regulations and other fishes are managed with statewide regulations.

The PFBC stocks walleye and channel catfish fingerlings annually and stocks muskellunge and tiger muskellunge in alternating years. The property is also home to the Commission’s Southwest Region office that includes law enforcement, fisheries management, education and outreach, and property maintenance.

Under the lease agreement, the county must ensure that the site remains open for public fishing and boating free of charge, must ensure that fishing and boating will take precedence over other recreational activities, and must seek PFBC approval before making any new recreational improvements.

The county may develop, enhance and place improvements on the leased area for public recreation, but they cannot adversely impact public fishing and boating or the aquatic resources on the property.

The dam at Somerset Lake is one of 10 high­hazard, unsafe dams managed by the PFBC on behalf of the Commonwealth. Somerset Lake was lowered six feet in January 2012 to reduce

pressure on the earthen dam after inspectors documented excessive seepage, and it will remain at that level until an inspection requires further draining for safety or until funding is fully established to reconstruct the facility.

The Somerset Lake Action Committee has taken the initiative to raise over $100,000 toward the estimated $8.6 million total cost to design and repair the dam. The PFBC is currently working with state officials to leverage agency resources with capital budget dollars and secure the full funding needed to complete the project. DCNR Hearing On 2015 Wild Resource Conservation Grant Applications Aug. 12 The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will hold a hearing August 12 on applications submitted for FY 2015­16 Wild Resource Conservation Program grant funding. The hearing will be held in the 6th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building, Harrisburg starting at 10:00 a.m. (formal notice) Help Wanted: DEP Director Of Bureau Of Waterways Engineering, Wetlands The Department of Environmental Protection is seeking candidates for Director of its Bureau of Waterways Engineering and Wetlands. The deadline for applying is June 24. The job posting is only open to current Commonwealth employees. Click Here for the Job Posting. 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. [Agenda Not Posted] means not posted within 2 weeks of the advisory committee meeting. Go to the online Calendar webpage for updates. Note: It's budget time, Committee meetings can be scheduled with little warning. June 22­­ NEW. Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee meet to consider Senate Bill 875 (Bartolotta­R­Fayette) encouraging the reuse of treated mine water for fracking gas wells (sponsor summary). Rules Room. Off the Floor. June 22­­ NEW. House Transportation Committee meets to consider Senate Bill 385 (Pileggi­R­Delaware) providing incentives for development around transit stations. Room 205 Ryan Building. 12:15. June 22­­ DEP public meeting on proposed IESI Landfill expansion in Northampton County. Saucon Valley High School Auditorium, 2100 Polk Valley Road, Hellertown. 6 to 9 p.m. June 23­­ Agenda Posted. DEP Board of Coal Mine Safety meeting. DEP Cambria Office, 286 Industrial Park Rd., Ebensburg. 10:00. (formal notice) ­­ Final Regulations: Standards For Surface Facilities ­­ Presentation on Performance­Based Cable Safety Requirements

­­ Discussion of Potential Future Regulations <> Click Here for available handouts. June 24­­ NEW. House Consumer Affairs Committee meets to consider House Bill 48 (Godshall­R­Montgomery) authorizing the Environmental Quality Board to set construction standards for private water wells (sponsor summary), House Bill 965 (Godshall­R­Montgomery) requiring additional oversight of agency regulations under the Regulatory Review Act (sponsor summary). Room 60 East Wing. 9:15. June 24­­ Agenda Posted. DEP Laboratory Accreditation Advisory Committee. Bureau of Laboratories Building, 2575 Interstate Dr., Harrisburg. 9:30. ­­ Discussion of Chapter 252 Draft Amendments ­­ Standard Qualifier Code Discussion <> Click Here for available handouts. June 24­­ Agenda Posted. DEP State Board for Certification of Sewage Enforcement Officers meeting. Conference Room 11B, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. ­­ Certification of New SEOs <> Click Here for available handouts. June 30­­ Agenda Posted. DEP Small Water Systems Technical Assistance Center Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. ­­ Technical Guidance Policy and eComment System ­­ Pre­Draft Revised Disinfectant Residual Requirements Rule <> Click Here for available handouts. June 30­­ DEP hearing on increase lead emissions from Northampton Generating Station. Northampton Memorial Community Center, 1601 Laubach Ave, Northampton 6­9:00 p.m. June 30­­ DEP webinar on proposed revisions to the policy for developing technical guidance and public participation. 2:00. Click Here to register. Environmental Policy Comment System has a copy of the proposed revisions. July 7­­ NEW. DEP hearing on proposed natural gas­fired power plant by Moxie Freedom Energy in Luzerne County. Berwick High School, 1100 Fowler Avenue, Berwick. 6­9 p.m. July 8­­ DEP Technical Advisory Committee on Diesel­Powered Equipment meeting. DEP New Stanton Office, 131 Broadview Rd., New Stanton. 10:00. July 9­­ DEP Mining and Reclamation Advisory Board meeting. Pottsville District Mining Office, 5 West Laurel Blvd, Pottsville. 9:00. MRAB members will be taking a field trip to several acid mine drainage treatment facilities in Schuylkill County on July 8 from 10 to 4 starting from the Pottsville Office. July 13­­ DEP public hearing on Letterkenny Army Depot, Franklin County, Reasonably

Available Control Technology determination. DEP Southcentral Regional Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 9:00 a.m. (June 6 PA Bulletin, page 2754) July 14­­ NEW. DEP public hearing on proposed Turnpike widening project Chapter 102/NPDES Permits in Chester and Montgomery counties. Tredyffrin Twp. Municipal Building, 1100 Duportail Rd., Berwyn. 7:00. (June 20 PA Bulletin, page 3275) July 20­­ Backyard Composting Workshop, PA Resources Council. Cooper­Siegal Library, Fox Chapel, Allegheny County. 10:30. July 21­­ CANCELED. Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. (formal notice) July 21­­ THIS MEETING IS NOW BEING HELD. DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. July 21­­ NEW. DEP/PA Infrastructure Investment Authority public meeting on 2015 Intended Use Plan for federal drinking water, wastewater treatment, nonpoint source and pollution abatement funding. 2nd Floor Auditorium, Rachel Carson Building, Harrisburg. 1:30. (formal notice) July 22­­ NEW. DEP public hearing on proposed revisions to the State Air Quality Implementation Plan related to North Reading for lead. Muhlenberg Twp. Recreation Building, 3025 River Road, Reading. 1:00. (formal notice) July 22­­ DEP Certification Program Advisory Committee for Water and Wastewater Systems Operators meeting. 14th Floor, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. (formal notice) July 22­­ DEP Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee meeting. 12th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. July 23­­ NEW. DEP hearing on the suspension of an NPDES stormwater permit for the construction of poultry houses by Lewis Martin in West Pennsboro Twp., Cumberland County. Cumberland County Conservation District office, 310 Allen Rd., Carlisle. 7:00­9:00. (June 20 PA Bulletin page 3376) July 30­­ NEW. DEP hearing on sulfur dioxide reduction limits for the Homer City Generating Station in Indiana County. Homer­Center High School Auditorium, 70 Wildcat Lane, Homer City. 6:00­8:00. (formal notice June 20 PA Bulletin page 3241). August 4­­ DEP Environmental Justice Advisory Board meeting. Delaware Room, 16th Floor, Rachel Carson Building. 8:30. August 4­5­­ Mid­Atlantic Invasive Plant Council Conference. Juniata College, Huntingdon County. Click Here for more information.

August 12­­ DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:30. August 12­­ NEW. DCNR Wild Resource Conservation Program hearing to comment on applications submitted for FY 2015­16 grant funding. 6th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building, Harrisburg. 10:00. (formal notice) August 18­­ Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. August 18­­ DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. August 25­­ DEP Oil and Gas Technical Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. (formal notice) August 26­­ DEP Cleanup Standards Scientific Advisory Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. August 27­­ DEP Conventional Oil and Gas Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. September 16­20­­ National Trout Unlimited Meeting. Center City Hilton Hotel and Convention Center, Scranton. Click Here for more information. September 20­22­­ 2015 Greenways and Trails Summit. Holiday Inn and Allegheny Community Center, Warren. September 22­­ DEP Sewage Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:30. September 24­­ DEP Recycling Fund Advisory Committee & Solid Waste Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. October 2­­ DEP Low­Level Waste Advisory Committee. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. October 17­­ Sen. Alloway, Alliance For Chesapeake Bay Tree Planting. Cumberland, Franklin Counties. Click Here for more information or to volunteer. October 27­­ DEP Oil and Gas Technical Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. (formal notice) October 28­30­­ 2015 Partnership for Safe Water 2015 Water System Optimization Conference hosted by the PA Section American Water Works Association. Hershey.

October 29­­ DEP Conventional Oil and Gas Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. Visit DEP’s Public Participation Center for information on how you can Be Informed! and Get Involved! in DEP regulation and guidance development process. 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 DEP Technical Guidance In Process Draft Technical Guidance Documents ­ DEP webpage Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines ­ DEP webpage Submit Comments on Proposals Through DEP’s new Environmental Policy Comment System Recently Closed Comment Periods For Technical Guidance ­ DEP webpage Technical Guidance Recently Finalized ­ DEP webpage Copies of Final Technical Guidance ­ DEP webpage Other DEP Proposals For Public Review Other Proposals Open For Public Comment ­ DEP webpage Submit Comments on Proposals Through DEP’s new Environmental Policy Comment System Recently Closed Comment Periods For Other Proposals ­ DEP webpage Other Proposals Recently Finalized ­ DEP webpage Click Here for links to DEP’s Advisory Committee webpages. DEP Calendar of Events DCNR Calendar of Events Note: The Environmental Education Workshop Calendar is no longer available from the PA Center for Environmental Education because funding for the Center was eliminated in the FY 2011­12 state budget. The PCEE website was also shutdown, but some content was moved to the PA Association of Environmental Educators' website. Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule You can watch the Senate Floor Session and House Floor Session live online. Add Green Works In PA To Your Google+ Circle 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. June 30­­ PROP Waste Watcher Awards June 30­­ DCNR Wild Resource Conservation Grants Program June 30­­ PA State Parks & Forests Foundation 100 Icons Nominations June 30­­ CFA Watershed Restoration Protection Grants June 30­­ CFA Abandoned Mine Drainage Abatement and Treatment Grants June 30­­ CFA Baseline Water Quality Data Grants June 30­­ CFA Orphan or Abandoned Well Plugging Grants June 30­­ CFA Sewage Facilities Grants June 30­­ CFA Flood Mitigation Grants June 30­­ CFA Greenways, Trails and Recreation Grants June 30­­ DEP Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebates (or until rebates run out) June 30­­ Campbell Foundation Chesapeake Bay Watershed Grants July 1­­ Northeast PA Environmental Partnership Awards July 3­­ PA Resources Council Anti­Litter Video Contest For Pittsburgh July 10­­ DEP Growing Greener Watershed Restoration Grants July 10­­ PROP Recycling Film Festival July 10­­ ARIPPA Abandoned Mine Reclamation Grants July 30­­ TreeVitalize Inventory, Planting Grants July 31­­ Keep PA Beautiful Fresh Paint Days PA Grants July 31­­ CFA Business In Our Sites, Brownfields August 14­­ NEW. PA Housing Finance Agency Drilling Fee Funded Housing Grants September 12­­ PPFF State Parks and Forests Through The Season Photo Contest September 18­­ PHS TreeVitalize Watershed Grants Southeast PA September 18­­ NEW. FirstEnergy STEM Education Grants September 30­­ DEP Recycling Performance Grants September 30­­ Project Learning Tree GreenWorks! Grants October 22­­ NEW. Office State Fire Commission Fire Company Grants (Limited Info) October 31­­ PA Resources Council Lens On Litter Photo Contest December 31­­ DEP Alternative Fuels Incentive Vehicle Rebates ­­ Visit the DEP Grants and Loan Programs webpage for more ideas on how to get financial assistance for environmental projects. Add Green Works In PA To Your Google+ Circle Environmental NewsClips ­ All Topics Here are NewsClips from around the state on all environmental topics, including General Environment, Budget, Marcellus Shale, Watershed Protection and much more­­ DEP Plans New Fracking Chemical Disclosure Website

Alternative Fuels Use Of Non­Petroleum Fuels On Rise, Vehicle Sales Stall Record Year For Renewable Power; Heat, Transport Stay Fossil Budget Wolf, Lawmakers Meet Over Budget 2 Weeks For Deadline Republicans Claim Agreement On Structural Deficit Budget Deficit Lower Than Though, House GOP Says Erie County To Receive $260K In Gas Drilling Fees Wolf: Tax The Gas industry To Pay For Education Op­Ed: PA Needs Wolf Plan To Invest In Energy Climate Study: Fugitive Methane Can Cause A Cascade Of Contamination Editorial: Greenhouse Gas Reduction Effort Good For All Clean Coal Research Projects Falter Pope Urges Environmental Action In Encyclical Pope Praised For Urging Climate Action Championing Environment, Pope Takes Aim At Global Capitalism Pope Blames Markets For Environment’s Ills CBF: Pope Sets Example For Government Leaders Drinking Water PA Drought Watch Expanded To 10 More Counties Most Of PA Under Drought Watch No Contamination To Susquehanna From Chemical Fire Chemical Plant: Water Systems Not Contaminated Hanover Shares Clean Water With New Oxford DEP: No Swimming, Boating, Fishing In Conewago Creek Cleanup, Monitoring Continues After Chemical Fire Fish Commission Assessing Damage After Chemical Fire EPA Tests 4 Wells Following Miller Chemical Fire What If Eagle Eats Dead Fish From Conewago Creek? Economic Development Shell Closes On Beaver County Land For Ethane Cracker Fracking Jobs Number Changes Under Wolf Economists: New Fracking Jobs Number Likely More Accurate Op­Ed: Falling Down Wolf’s Shale Jobs Rabbit Hole Energy Cogeneration Lets Duquesne Meet Heating, Cooling Goals Clean Coal Research Projects Falter Wood Pellet Stoves Drive Heat In More Western PA Houses Energy Spotlight: Jay Hammond Should Middletown Lease Its Electric System? Op­Ed: PA Needs Wolf Plan To Invest In Energy FirstEnergy Helps Open Nuclear Fuel Storage Facilities Plant Environmental Education Outdoor Classroom Engages Young Students

Farming Farm­Fresh Access Grows In Pittsburgh’s Urban Areas Flooding Hurricane Schwartz: Weekend Flooding? Flash Flooding Hits Western PA More Storms Bring Flash Flooding To Western PA Carlisle Takes Step To Combat Flooding In Downtown Forests Suburban Forest Expands In Lackawanna Valley Lackawanna County Under Assault From Gypsy Moths 1st PA Gypsy Moths Discovered In Pittston In 1932 Green Buildings Pittsburgh Flexes Its Sustainability Muscle Mine Reclamation Bids On Banning Mine #4 Reclamation Higher Than Expected Oil & Gas DEP Fines Range Resources $8.9 Million For Shale Gas Well DEP Seeks Record Fine OF $8.9M From Range Resources DEP Seeks $8.9 Million Fine From Range Resources PA Wants Record $8.9M Fine Against Drilling Firm Conventional Oil Drillers Say DEP Overstepping Its Authority RMU Poll: Fracking Support Grows With Increased Awareness New Poll Shows Majority Of Pennsylvanians Favor Fracking Gas Pipeline Routes Key To Public Acceptance Communities Can Do Little To Keep Out PennEast Pipeline Natural Gas Leak Prompts Evacuation In Bethlehem Cecil OKs Gas Compressor With Conditions Cecil Compressor Station May Not Be Built South Fayette Sets Hearing On Revised Drilling Ordinance No Decision For Invenergy Zoning Challenge Editorial: Public Must Know Fracking Solution Content Fracking Jobs Number Changes Under Wolf Shell Buys Ethane Plant Site For $13.5 Million Shell Closes On Beaver County Land For Ethane Cracker Shall Paid $6M Less Than Market Value For Ethane Plant Site Erie County To Receive $260K In Gas Drilling Fees Consultant: Burket Shale May Go Untapped In PA How Oil Train Derailment Rocked A Community NJ Bill Would Mandate Plans For Crude Oil Trains World Facing Longest Oil Glut In 3 Decades Energy Industry Is Gassing Down Delco Chamber Helps Create Marcellus Coalition Recreation Moon Lake Park Transfer Bill OK’d Recycling/Waste

Keystone Landfill May Have Solved Leachate Mystery DEP Approves PPG Dump Site Cleanup Plan Sustainability Pittsburgh Flexes Its Sustainability Muscle Watershed Protection PA Substantially Off Track In Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Efforts Conservation Groups: PA Water Clean Up Efforts Falling Short EPA Finds PA Significantly Off Track To Meet Bay Goals EPA: PA Falling Far Behind Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Plan EPA: PA Needs To Cleanup Up Chesapeake Bay PA Lags Behind In Chesapeake Cleanup ALCASAN Beings $2 Billion Sewer Overhaul Pittsburgh Residents Turn To Rain Barrels Editorial: We’ll Drink To EPA Water Rule No Contamination To Susquehanna From Chemical Fire DEP: No Swimming, Boating, Fishing In Conewago Creek Cleanup, Monitoring Continues After Chemical Fire Fish Commission Assessing Damage After Chemical Fire EPA Tests 4 Wells Following Miller Chemical Fire What If Eagle Eats Dead Fish From Conewago Creek? Mayflies Swarm, Cause York County Bridge Closures Mayflies Swarm, Cause York County Bridge Closures Swarm Of Mayflies Isn’t All Bad News Mayflies, Your Questions Answered Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal West Nile Virus Luzerne Conservation District Works To Keep West Nile At Bay Tire Recycling Events Diminish Mosquito Breeding Ground Wildlife Peregrine Falcons Flying High In Lancaster County Western PA Audubon Society Spirit Not Dampened Rep. Farina Leads New Sunday Hunting Push DEP’s NewsClips webpage ­ Click Here The latest environmental NewsClips and news is available at the PA Environment Digest Daily Blog, Twitter Feed and add us to your Google+ Circle. Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits No new regulations were published this week. Pennsylvania Bulletin ­ June 20, 2015 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 Technical Guidance & Permits The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the June 20 PA Bulletin of final technical guidance on PA’s Capability Enhancement Program For Drinking Water Systems and a Training Provider Manual for Water System Operators. DEP and the PA Infrastructure Investment Authority published notice in the June 20 PA Bulletin of a 2015 Intended Use Plan for federal drinking water and wastewater, nonpoint source and pollution abandonment funding. There will be a public meeting on the Plan July 21 in Harrisburg to receive comments on the Plan. DEP published notice in the June 20 PA Bulletin of proposed revisions to the State Air Quality Implementation Plan related to North Reading for lead. DEP will hold a public hearing on the proposal July 22 in Reading. DEP Technical Guidance In Process Draft Technical Guidance Documents ­ DEP webpage Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines ­ DEP webpage Submit Comments on Proposals Through DEP’s new Environmental Policy Comment System Recently Closed Comment Periods For Technical Guidance ­ DEP webpage Technical Guidance Recently Finalized ­ DEP webpage Copies of Final Technical Guidance ­ DEP webpage Other DEP Proposals For Public Review Other Proposals Open For Public Comment ­ DEP webpage Submit Comments on Proposals Through DEP’s new Environmental Policy Comment System Recently Closed Comment Periods For Other Proposals ­ DEP webpage Other Proposals Recently Finalized ­ DEP webpage Visit DEP’s new Public Participation Center for information on how you can Be Informed! and Get Involved! in DEP regulation and guidance development process. Click Here for links to DEP’s Advisory Committee webpages. DEP Calendar of Events Add Green Works In PA To Your Google+ Circle CLICK HERE To Print Entire PA Environment Digest CLICK HERE to Print The Entire PA Environment Digest.

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: DHess@CrisciAssociates.com. PA Environment Digest is edited by David E. Hess, former Secretary Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, and is published as a service of Crisci Associates, a Harrisburg­based government and public affairs firm whose clients include Fortune 500 companies and non­profit organizations. Did you know you can search 10 years of back issues of the PA Environment Digest 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. Supporting Member PA Outdoor Writers Assn./PA Trout Unlimited PA Environment Digest is a supporting member of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association, Pennsylvania Council Trout Unlimited and the Doc Fritchey Chapter Trout Unlimited.