7/28/2019 Pa Environment Digest Sept. 30, 2013

1/41

PA Environment Digest

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

Winner 2009 PAEE Business Partner Of The Year Award

Harrisburg, Pa September 30, 2013

STRONGER Review Of DEP Drilling Program: Well Managed, Some Changes Needed

A 203-page review of DEPs Oil and Gas Regulatory Program released by the State Review of Oil

and Natural Gas Environmental Regulations (STRONGER) this week found Pennsylvanias program is

well-managed, professional and meeting its program objectives.

At the same time, the group said DEP needs to develop a standardized way of trackingviolations and enforcement actions, should develop a consistent method to determine surface casing

depths to protect groundwater and develop guidance for pre-drilling water sampling.

The STRONGER voluntary and independent review program has conducted four other reviews

of Pennsylvanias program, this most recent review was done in May by a panel including industry,

government and environmental representatives.

The STRONGER report also identified several strengths in Pennsylvanias Program--

-- Staff Resources: Commended DEP for increasing its staff and resources to address additional

permitting, inspection and enforcement activities as well as noting the passage of new legislation (Act 13

of 2012) to distinguish regulation of Marcellus Shale and conventional oil and gas wells.

-- Abandoned Wells: DEP was commended for their public participation activities associated with the

abandoned sites program. Public participation activities with respect to abandoned wells have beenoccurring for many years by local individuals and environmental groups. These groups have been

especially proactive in searching for abandoned oil and gas wells. Two such groups are the PA Senior

Environmental Corp, who searched for abandoned wells in Oil Creek State Park in Venango County

and Save Our Streams PA, who is involved in finding abandoned wells in Potter and McKean

Counties.

-- Radiation Study: The report noted DEPs comprehensive study of radiation levels specifically

associated with Marcellus Shale well development (TENORM study) now underway is the first of its

kind in the nation.

-- Stormwater Management: Commended DEP for its stormwater management program and the

adoption of a new stormwater management policy that relies on the use of Best Management Practices

for the control of erosion and sedimentation at drilling and related sites.-- Hydraulic Fracturing Program: DEP was commended for its hydraulic fracturing program.

Standards for well casing and cementing require that the operator conduct those activities to control the

well at all times, prevent migration of gas or other fluids into sources of fresh groundwater and prevent

pollution of fresh groundwater. The report noted the well completion report requirements and chemical

disclosure requirements exceed public disclosure and reporting requirements of the STRONGER

Guidelines.

A complete copy of the report is available online.

http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.elibrary.dep.state.pa.us%2Fdsweb%2FGet%2FDocument-92195%2F800-2100-008.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHmBYXPqBx0_c2yx9Okk1gB4HoBJQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fsaveourstreamspa.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHYuDzCoqbMhJhGs1TcRGsESD9o1ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.natureabounds.org%2FSEC.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHfcneH7u7JGiZPvLoOeRZ_N_vWwghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.portal.state.pa.us%2Fportal%2Fserver.pt%2Fcommunity%2Fact_13&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG71wE1JHNDARvZS8zCaDDzbrz0Cghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.strongerinc.org%2Fcontent%2Fpennsylvania&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG6QeRtE7Ma8mfFx16Il8FIyBdf1Ahttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.strongerinc.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFqksI5dok9NFzn3gTq31_4XnWonAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fstrongerinc.org%2Fsites%2Fall%2Fthemes%2Fstronger02%2Fdownloads%2FFinal%2520Report%2520of%2520Pennsylvania%2520State%2520Review%2520Approved%2520for%2520Publication.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHOfdyuTd_NmRFA3h9Mu4SXOTo8Iwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fstrongerinc.org%2Fsites%2Fall%2Fthemes%2Fstronger02%2Fdownloads%2FFinal%2520Report%2520of%2520Pennsylvania%2520State%2520Review%2520Approved%2520for%2520Publication.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHOfdyuTd_NmRFA3h9Mu4SXOTo8Iwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D11953&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFSPEUcwhnqVJLvxVyzABsEHAreLQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fstrongerinc.org%2Fsites%2Fall%2Fthemes%2Fstronger02%2Fdownloads%2FFinal%2520Report%2520of%2520Pennsylvania%2520State%2520Review%2520Approved%2520for%2520Publication.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHOfdyuTd_NmRFA3h9Mu4SXOTo8Iwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.elibrary.dep.state.pa.us%2Fdsweb%2FGet%2FDocument-92195%2F800-2100-008.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHmBYXPqBx0_c2yx9Okk1gB4HoBJQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D24468&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFR79rPCSjwAwW8FDxvmiz00PpMJQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fsaveourstreamspa.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHYuDzCoqbMhJhGs1TcRGsESD9o1ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.orgsites.com%2Fpa%2Fvenangopasec%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFd_teHOQbt_Frr58DIZ-xlnFboVghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.natureabounds.org%2FSEC.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHfcneH7u7JGiZPvLoOeRZ_N_vWwghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.natureabounds.org%2FSEC.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHfcneH7u7JGiZPvLoOeRZ_N_vWwghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.portal.state.pa.us%2Fportal%2Fserver.pt%2Fcommunity%2Fact_13&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG71wE1JHNDARvZS8zCaDDzbrz0Cghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.portal.state.pa.us%2Fportal%2Fserver.pt%2Fcommunity%2Fact_13&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG71wE1JHNDARvZS8zCaDDzbrz0Cghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.strongerinc.org%2Fcontent%2Fpennsylvania&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG6QeRtE7Ma8mfFx16Il8FIyBdf1Ahttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.strongerinc.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFqksI5dok9NFzn3gTq31_4XnWonAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fstrongerinc.org%2Fsites%2Fall%2Fthemes%2Fstronger02%2Fdownloads%2FFinal%2520Report%2520of%2520Pennsylvania%2520State%2520Review%2520Approved%2520for%2520Publication.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHOfdyuTd_NmRFA3h9Mu4SXOTo8Iwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D11953&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFSPEUcwhnqVJLvxVyzABsEHAreLQ

7/28/2019 Pa Environment Digest Sept. 30, 2013

2/41

DEP Reaction

This review demonstrates that the oil and gas industry in Pennsylvania is matched by

world-class oil and gas management and regulations, DEP Acting Secretary Chris Abruzzo said.

Pennsylvanians can be assured that DEP is protecting their health and environment while oil and gas

operations continue to grow.

This STRONGER review is a very positive reflection on the shared commitment of Gov.Corbett and the members of the General Assembly who have worked hard to adopt environmental

standards that are now national standards, added Abruzzo. DEPs Office of Oil and Gas

Management will be working to implement STRONGERs recommendations to further protect

Pennsylvanias natural resources.

NewsClips:

Battle Brewing: Gas Drillers vs. Endangered Species

Lt. Gov. Criticizes AG For Prosecution Of Drilling Company

Plenty Of Water For Drilling Industry, PA Needs Better Rules

Connoquenessing Residents Claim Drilling Contamination

Butler Community Blames Water Problems On DrillingSite Of Fracking Spill Focus Of Fierce Legal Battle

Allegheny County Invites Proposals For Deer Lakes Park Drilling

Allegheny County Seeks Drilling Proposals For Deer Lakes Park

As Gas Well Permits Decline, Wastewater Reuse Plateauing

Range Resources Looks To Settle Townships Legal Claims

Even Without Drilling, Fracking Has Impact On Delaware

Well Pad Construction Clears Trees, But Not Making It To Market

Attorney Challenges Natural Gas Lease Settlement

Anti-Fracking Report Issued By Penn Environment, PennFuture

Groups Calculate Social Cost Of Natural Gas Boom

Fracking Begins In Old, Shallow Oil And Gas Fields

Marcellus Works Bills Still Up In The Air In Harrisburg

Clinton Task Force To Review New Drilling Regs

Natural Gas Scare At Dallas PA High School

PEC Disagrees: Drilling Industry Says Rules Are Regulations For Regulations Sake

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council takes issue with comments attributed to Katherine Klaber,

outgoing president of the Marcellus Shale Coalition, who was quoted as saying, "The pendulum has

swung to regulation for the sake of regulation at this weeks Marcellus Shale Insight Conference in

Philadelphia. (Source: EnergyWire, September 26, 2013 article by Mike Soragham.)The following statement was issued by Paul King, President of the PA Environmental Council--

The idea that regulation of the shale gas industry is some sort of exercise is ill-advised and

baseless. PEC and many other organizations have spent years working to ensure that responsible and

effective legislative and regulatory measures are enacted that will protect Pennsylvanians and the

environment.

The development of shale gas in Pennsylvania is complicated and not only presents

opportunities for economic benefits as well as some environmental benefits in fuel switching, it also

http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.eenews.net%2Few%2F2013%2F09%2F26&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGQF0oKt2bA3QSgsPQUK3kgzILXowhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fmarcelluscoalition.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGnjkaNj7HupiWhU6IzN6o0H6A36ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fmarcellus.pecpa.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNF-u0jMKSDZFREgj2ijx-xym4EnHwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timesleader.com%2Fnews%2Flocal-news%2F863485%2FCommunications-failure-prompts-gas-scare-at-Dallas-High-School&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFlOgiUCgK28Xykj1gjAnKDSnuT1whttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.lockhaven.com%2Fpage%2Fcontent.detail%2Fid%2F547548%2FGAS-Task-Force-eyes-new-DEP-regs-for-drilling.html%3Fnav%3D5009&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFi3zAWn0raaw1whFLxpttUaGAiEghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fm.wesa.fm%2F%3Futm_referrer%3D%23mobile%2F17013&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEIammVlvi1jfVeqkpO4Zqxk6wAFAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.post-gazette.com%2Fstories%2Fbusiness%2Fnews%2Fhorizontal-drilling-fracking-begins-in-old-shallow-oil-and-gas-fields-704396%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFH5N9ZkdmhlCA3o_0XCcT9ziGD0ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fnews%2Fenvironmental-groups-calculate-social-cost-of-natural-gas-boom-1.1558186&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG-LT3FDmNx5XiWp-gBg_JGKm1oEQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fpffacts.blogspot.com%2F2013%2F09%2Fanti-fracking-report-issued-by-penn.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHmUutJwFpapKFF49BLjTHNlO_JFghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fnews%2Fattorney-challenges-natural-gas-lease-settlement-1.1558107&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGLUiJ74LJMS1hVbv51gTqT8LULyAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fnews%2Fbusiness%2Ftree-clearing-vast-but-some-timber-not-making-it-to-market-1.1556326&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHWhohjBQ4QW2kCJ5PFafvWH_FRgwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fblogs.delawareonline.com%2Fallgreentome%2F2013%2F09%2F23%2Feven-without-wells-fracking-has-big-impact-on-delaware-river-watershed%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNH2BudqLP3sdIvAyuMlyeYLySSnKghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ftriblive.com%2Fbusiness%2Fheadlines%2F4757496-74%2Ftownship-range-company&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFxRubTnT7y-W2rqF1TV67b_g2ImQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fnews%2Fas-well-permits-decline-wastewater-reuse-plateauing-1.1558890&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNH8P5B7BH-sVYcrrKnOh1UWPCEyLwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.post-gazette.com%2Fstories%2Flocal%2Fneighborhoods-north%2Fallegheny-county-seeks-drilling-proposals-for-deer-lakes-park-705163%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEngZ4mvpnxEVNL2b1378l3lW4O_Qhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ftriblive.com%2Fnews%2Fadminpage%2F4784529-74%2Fcounty-companies-environmental&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFlOr-LhT2A0INaIUvInUAjH-kSawhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philly.com%2Fphilly%2Fnews%2F20130922_Pa__well_site_will_be_focus_of_fierce_legal_battle.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFM1PwwLNAjRqKYhNPb4MqwRz78dQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.post-gazette.com%2Fstories%2Fbusiness%2Fnews%2Fwater-problems-lead-to-lawsuit-in-small-community-of-woodlands-704923%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHZu48c5pco070SKN3wEtnmTqnKawhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Ftriblive.com%2Fnews%2Fbutler%2F4721362-74%2Fdrilling-residents-woodlands&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGRWlrWPg6SZ86h0n6RYCONZKlrswhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fnews%2Fplenty-of-water-for-natural-gas-industry-but-pa-needs-to-refine-rules-1.1559476&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEifa1Tb9kQJ1o9ZCvojYoq3nS3dwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philly.com%2Fphilly%2Fbusiness%2Fhomepage%2F20130927_Pa__official_criticizes_prosecution_of_shale_drilling_firm.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEmezCqyqYq9gnLALrm-Ar6Hl3XCghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fcanon-mcmillan.patch.com%2Fgroups%2Fpolitics-and-elections%2Fp%2Fbattle-brewing-gas-drillers-vs-endangered-species_3f114fcd-canon-mcmillan&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEy99fIVvT9nnxbpEnHYw8xI6DvJw

7/28/2019 Pa Environment Digest Sept. 30, 2013

3/41

directly impacts Pennsylvanias lands, water, air and communities.

PEC has worked with a broad array of stakeholders - including industry - over the last four

years to understand and work to address the impacts of unconventional shale development. While the

proposed regulations are not perfect, in fact we believe they can be further improved, they greatly

strengthen Pennsylvanias ability to manage the development of the unconventional shale gas industry.

Indeed, many of the proposed regulations have been endorsed by members of the MSC through therecommendations of the Governors Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission, whose report provided

part of the framework for Act 13.

Act 13 was the result of more than two years of deliberation. Enactment of regulations to

realize the new protections afforded by Act 13 won't take place until two years or more of in depth

collaboration and discussions after passage of the law. Industry has been heavily involved in every step

of that dialog. To characterize this as an onslaught of regulation is severely misguided and not at all

accurate.

The idea of regulation for the sake of regulation needs to be dismissed out of hand and

replaced with the understanding that the DEP and all stakeholders are working hard to develop

regulations that balance the complicated and often competing demands of environmental protection and

economic development.For more information, visit PECs Marcellus Shale webpage.

NewsClips:

Drilling Conferences Bring Insight, Protest To Philadelphia

Shale Summit In Philly Prompts Clean Water Rally

Marcellus Shale Industry Conference Draws Protests

Marcellus Shale Coalition Comes Back To Philadelphia

Shale Conference Focuses On Philly As Economic Engine

Gas Companies Discuss Changes In Markets, Supplies

Shale Conference Ends With Remarks From Newt Gingrich

Northeast PA Environmental Partners Announce 2013 Award Winners

The Northeast Environmental Partners this week announced the winners of their 2013 awards who will

be honored at a special awards dinnerOctober 24 at the Woodlands Inn and Resort in Wilkes-Barre.

Environmental Partnership Awards

The recipients of the Environmental Partnership Awards for 2013:

-- Air Products Ammonium Bifluoride Waste Reclamation Project, Schuylkill County for

designing a process with their commercial reclamation facility to convert Ammonium Bifluoride to usab

commercial products. To date, over 18 million pounds of Ammonium Bifluoride Waste has been

reclaimed, thereby reducing the companys hazardous wastes by 24 percent.-- Blue Mountain Preservation Association, Monroe County for partnering to preserve a 354 acre

tract of land on the north slope of Blue Mountain, also known as the Kittatinny Ridge, providing habitat

for plants, insects, reptiles, birds and mammals, including some endangered species.

-- Delaware Highlands Conservancy Green Lodging Partnership, Wayne County for partnering

with landowners and communities to protect the healthy farm and forestlands, clean waters, eagles and

eagle habitat, locally sustainable economies, and quality of life in the Upper Delaware River region

through the Green Lodging Project, an initiative connecting local conservation with local tourism and a

http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pecpa.org%2Fsites%2Fpecpa.org%2Ffiles%2F2013_invitation_annual_evening_for_ne_pennsylvanias_environment.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHmFHXskMaGwQqUzqCGqjc-HTKgxghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fnews%2Fday-three-of-shale-conference-closes-with-remarks-from-newt-gingrich-1.1559182&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFT2ZOlXaAzU81OwJMXdP3qWzdKjQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fnews%2Fnatural-gas-companies-discuss-changes-in-market-supplies-at-shale-conference-1.1558437&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNH-sPp8g_CH0G5082oReqao8VoxCQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fthetimes-tribune.com%2Fnews%2Fshale-conference-focuses-on-philly-as-economic-engine-growth-of-industry-1.1558437&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNH995CLh_XnzqmhYNeItKd--AZ4-ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fphiladelphia.cbslocal.com%2F2013%2F09%2F23%2Fmarcellus-shale-coalition-comes-back-to-philadelphia%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHO_mqh-R1c5YU86bAqY6dTSJu98Ahttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fphiladelphia.cbslocal.com%2F2013%2F09%2F24%2Fshale-industry-conference-in-philadelphia-draws-protests%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEGeJizkEv4Bo5oZFowd7vOj1eN-ghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.philly.com%2Fphilly%2Fbusiness%2Fhomepage%2F20130925_Shale_industry_and_anti-drilling_activists_set_for_Phila__gathering.html&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGFNP6CvA5NDvxkmlA3uqhfhVi4xghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fstateimpact.npr.org%2Fpennsylvania%2F2013%2F09%2F24%2Fdueling-drilling-conferences-bring-insight-and-protest-to-philadelphia%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFEeAldA72KhPyT3sW7HmZHILFXowhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fmarcellus.pecpa.org%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNF-u0jMKSDZFREgj2ijx-xym4EnHwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fdefault.asp%3FNewsletterArticleID%3D19729&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHcbtnYtdJqvyVXTIdPWKHztl_NiQ

7/28/2019 Pa Environment Digest Sept. 30, 2013

4/41

sustainable economy.

-- Earth Conservancy and PA American Water Company, Luzerne County for their partnership to

develop a composting residual waste recycling program. The project combines the residual waste

created during water treatment processing from the PA American Water Company Watres Water

Treatment Plant with compost from the Earth Conservancys yard waste composting facility to create a

nutrient-rich compost that enhances the growth potential of grasses and other planting on EC projectsites as well as on PA American Water community projects.

-- Nanticoke Conservation Club, Luzerne County for partnering with the Department of

Transportation, Fish and Boat Commission, Department of Forestry and many others to provide fish

habitat, turtle basking platforms and wood duck nesting boxes, stock trout, plant trees and provide

educational programing for our youth.

-- Pocono Raceway, Monroe County for their efforts to make Pocono Raceway one of the most

environmentally conscious NASCAR race tracks. The green initiatives underway at the Raceway

include the construction of a 3MW solar project that not only supplies the energy needs of the raceway

but also powers local homes, participation in NASCARs Green Flag Tree Planting Program which

plants 10 native trees for every green flag dropped at NASCAR races across the nation and

implementation of an extensive recycling program that provides recycling bins throughout the racewaygrounds.

-- Watershed Coalition of the Lehigh Valley, Northampton County for partnering with PPL Electric

Utilities Corporation and Lafayette College to identify, map and protect streams and other sensitive

areas within PPLs transmission line corridors throughout the Lehigh Valley and model revegetation

projects on stream crossings in these corridors. Through the partnership, five (5) stream crossings were

revegetated and educational materials on the value and importance of riparian buffers were developed.

-- Catherine Hughes & Rebecca Taylor, Luzerne County for partnering with representatives from

the City of Wilkes-Barre, Luzerne County, Department of Environmental Protection, local businesses,

Wilkes University, Kings College and area non-profits to increase awareness and opportunity for public

and commercial recycling in downtown Wilkes-Barre.

Emerging Environmental Leader Award

The Emerging Environmental Leader Award will be presented this year to Corey Husic,

Monroe County for his leadership and commitment to ecology and the environment. Some of Coreys

many accomplishments include activities and projects conducted at and for the Lehigh Gap Nature

Center. Corey conducted a longitudinal bird study at the Center, developed a sound field guide to the

Center and designed and created several brochures on butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies and birds

found at the Center. Corey is a dedicated and accomplished young environmental leader.

Thomas P. Shelburne Leadership Award

The Nineteenth Annual Thomas P. Shelburne Environmental Leadership Award will be

presented this year to: David Buck, Bradford and Wyoming Counties.

Mr. Buck is being honored for his dedication, leadership and commitment to preserving andprotecting the environment of Northeastern Pennsylvania. For over forty years Mr. Buck has been

engaged in many community activities with missions to protect and improve the quality of life in our

communities and the natural environment.

Early in his career Mr. Buck founded the Pocono Citizens for Conservation as a grassroots

organization with a mission to protect and preserve the Tannersville Cranberry Bog, he was also one of

the founding members of the Pocono Mountains Audubon Society, Mr. Buck also served on the

Monroe County Planning Commission where he advocated for open space and greenways.

7/28/2019 Pa Environment Digest Sept. 30, 2013

5/41

Mr. Buck partners with the Endless Mountains Heritage Region and the Susquehanna

Greenways Partnership to promote and protect the North Branch of the Susquehanna River. Mr. Buck

is a leader in the environmental arena through creating partnerships that have improved the natural,

recreational and cultural landscape of Northeastern Pennsylvania.

Allison Tummon Kamphuis, Manager, Procter & Gamble Childrens Safe Drinking Water

Program will be this years Keynote Speaker. Mark Volk, President of Lackawanna College will be theMaster of Ceremonies for the Twenty Third Annual Environmental Partnership Awards and Dinner.

Dinner sponsors include: Benefactors: MT Carmel Cogen, Inc. Pennoni Associates Inc. PPL

Corporation UGI Corporation Patrons: Mericle Commercial Real Estate Services Pocono Manor

Investors, LP Procter & Gamble Paper Products Company Sponsors: Borton Lawson CAN DO,

Inc. Earth Conservancy Luzerne County Convention & Visitors Bureau Pennsylvania American

Water Pocono Mountains Visitors Bureau, Inc. M & T Bank and Weis Markets.

Northeast Environmental Partners include: Northeastern Pennsylvania Alliance, Department of

Conservation and Natural Resources, Department of Environmental Protection, Pennsylvania

Environmental Councils Northeast Office, PPL Corporation, Procter & Gamble Paper Products

Company, and Wilkes University.

Click Here for information on attending the awards dinner.

Did You Know You Can Search 9 Years Of Digests On Any Topic?

Did you know you can search 9 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.

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.

PA Environment Digest Video Blog: showcases original and published videos from environmental

groups and agencies around the state. Sign up to receive as they are posted updates through your

favorite RSS read. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this

blog.

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.

http://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.twitter.com%2FPaCapitolDigest&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGWrE0J29KeaafDM7MJyMC8ers1CAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fpacapitoldigestcrisci.blogspot.com%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEsEHXOUzs6gT1RCKAugVwOVKqPwAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fpaenvirodigestvideo.blogspot.com%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEmKqFvZOkdb3_B7R1MBSPh3LLnzAhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fpaenvironmentdaily.blogspot.com%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNFRzy2G1pqBkPajQhREHSFOtt9DyQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.twitter.com%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNGXriPf7nAwCc24P4VynFe1LpqWFghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.crisciassociates.com%2F&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHXIVMkGh_c7n4BmGVntccrLXM7eghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.paenvironmentdigest.com%2Fnewsletter%2Fsearch.asp&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNG3YMJhJTavF8eWahj5px0Dtv-fMQhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pecpa.org%2Fsites%2Fpecpa.org%2Ffiles%2F2013_invitation_annual_evening_for_ne_pennsylvanias_environment.pdf&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNHmFHXskMaGwQqUzqCGqjc-HTKgxghttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pecpa.org&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEM8BUWa5gnVDqY89QNay-YF-Anfwhttp://www.google.com/url?q=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.pecpa.org&sa=D&sntz=1&usg=AFQjCNEM8BUWa5gnVDqY89QNay-YF-Anfw

7/28/2019 Pa Environment Digest Sept. 30, 2013

6/41

Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule/Bills Introduced

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

list of new environmental bills introduced--

Session Schedule

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

House

September 30

October 1, 2, 15, 16, 17 (Non-Voting), 21, 22, 23

November 12, 13, 18, 19, 20

December 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18 (Non-Voting)

SenateSeptember 30

October 1, 2, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23

November 12, 13, 18, 19, 20

December 3, 4, 9, 10, 11

Bill Calendars

House (September 30): House Bill 302 (Moul-R-Adams) transferring funds from the Oil and Gas

Lease Fund to DEP for a competitive grant program to convert small mass transit bus fleets to natural

gas House Bill 303 (Moul-R-Adams) transferring funds from the Oil and Gas Lease Fund to DEP for a

competitive grant program to convert large mass transit fleets to natural gas House Bill 304

(Marshall-R-Beaver) funding conversions of transit buses to natural gas House Bill 306

(Pickett-R-Bradford) redirecting the Alternative Fuels Incentive Fund to create the Keystone Fuel

Incentive Program to fund conversions of vehicles to natural gas House Bill 308 (Saylor-R-York)

redirecting $6 million annually from the Clean Air Fund to finance vehicle conversions to natural gas.