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Issue #757 Harrisburg, PA Dec.

31, 2018

PA Environment Digest Blog​ ​Twitter Feed​ ​ Facebook Page

Be Inspired! Stories About Hundreds Of Great PA Environmental Stewards In 2018

Since June of 2004, the ​PA Environment Digest


has printed over 1,472 stories about thousands
of businesses, farmers, schools, local
governments, students of all ages, nonprofit
groups, organizations and individuals just like
you recognized for doing great things to protect
and restore Pennsylvania’s environment in
every corner of the Commonwealth.
Here are the 175 stories we published during
2018.
Will we find YOU on this list in 2019?

ORSANCO Receives National Recognition As American Rivers Cleanup Champion


EPCAMR Receives National Recognition As American Rivers Cleanup Champion
DCNR Releases 2017 Accomplishments Report
Loyalsock Creek Named 2018 PA River Of The Year In Public Voting
After Century-Long Absence, Freshwater Mussel Found In Kiski River, Armstrong County
In Memoriam: Eugene C. Capaldi, Who Fought Against Illegal Dumping
2017 Penn State Extension Youth Water Educators Summit Receives National Recognition
Pittsburgh Students Win ORSANCO Ohio River Sweep Poster Contest
Joint House-Senate Conservation Committee Celebrates 50th Anniversary
Keep PA Beautiful Earns National Recognition At Keep America Beautiful Awards Ceremony

Keep PA Beautiful Earns National Recognition At Keep America Beautiful Awards Ceremony
PEC Podcast: Keystone Recreation, Park & Conservation Fund Celebrates 25 Years
PA Construction Aggregates Facilities Continue No Fatality Safety Record For 3rd Year
Game Commission Releases 2017 Annual Report - Putting Wildlife First
Michaux State Forest Forester Michael Wright Receives National Recognition For Wildlife
Work

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DCNR Ranger Edward Ottinger Wins National Award From Keep America Beautiful
DEP, PennDOT Earn National Recognition For Great American Cleanup Of PA
Keep PA Beautiful Recognizes Outstanding 2017 Volunteers & Program Achievements
DCNR Names Philadelphia's Forbidden Drive As 2018 Trail Of The Year
PA Resources Council Honors 18 Western PA Organizations With Zero Waste Awards

PA Wilds Center Awards, Conference Celebrating 15 Years Of The Wilds At Work April 26-27
Albert M. Greenfield School, Philadelphia, Named KAB Recycle-Bowl State School Division
Winners
Brodhead Chapter Trout Unlimited To Honor John Arway With Lifetime Achievement Award
March 23 In Monroe County
2018 Appalachian Trail Hall Of Fame Inductees Announced
Pittsburgh Student Alexander Grattan Wins High School Category Of One Earth Film Festival
National Arbor Day Foundation Recognizes TreePhilly Founder Erica Smith Fichman
Susquehanna River Basin Commission Strengthens Right-To-Know Policy, Recognizes Mark
Hartle With Goddard Award
Natural Lands: Penn Township Wins Growing Greener Communities Award In Chester County

Delaware Highlands Conservancy: Winners Of Sharing Place: Eagles & Their Environs Photo
Contest
PA Resources Council 2017 Lens On Litter Photo Contest Winners Now On Display
State Of The Kiski-Conemaugh River Watershed Report Shows Significant Water Quality
Improvement
Master Watershed Stewards In York County Present Outstanding Partner Award
Celebrating Women In Conservation Award Winners Announced
Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail Shelters Restoration Project Honored By Western PA
Environmental Awards
EPA Recognizes Bimbo Bakeries In Reading For Energy Star Manufacturing Certification
DEP Secretary Visits Pik Rite, Inc. In Lewisburg To Celebrate Energy Efficiency Improvements,
National Recognition
Western PA Environmental Awards, Lifetime Award Winners Announced

Richard H. Friedman To Receive PA Bar Assn Environmental & Energy Law Section Lifetime
Achievement Award
Pocono Arts Council Announces Earth Speaks IV Awards Artists’ Reception April 21; Exhibit
Runs Thru April 28
Wildlife Technology Student Sean Lauer From York Receives Wildlife Society Scholarship
EPA Honors 4 Pennsylvania Energy Star Partners Of The Year
Keep Centre County Beautiful Becomes Newest Keep America Beautiful Affiliate in
Pennsylvania
Winning Entry In What The Delaware River Means Contest Captures The Beauty Of The River,
New Contest Opens
Philadelphia #15 On Top 25 Cities List For EPA Energy Star Certified Buildings In 2017
Champions Of The PA Wilds Award Winners Announced, Will Be Recognized April 26 In
Williamsport

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Wyoming Valley Sanitary Authority Receives Governor's Local Government Award For MS4
Stormwater Management Partnership
Weis Markets Continues To Reduce Environmental Impact

Pittsburgh 2030 District Reports $26.7M Energy, $3.9M Water Savings In 5th Annual Progress
Report
Centre County Honors 58 Green Businesses, Schools And Organizations
23 Companies, Groups, Individuals Honored With Governor's Award For Environmental
Excellence
Game Commission Biologists Receive Recognition From The Wildlife Society
Pittsburgh-Based PPG Reports Sustainability Progress, New 2025 Goals
PECO Receives Energy Star Partner Of The Year - Sustained Excellence Award
DCNR Honors Parks In Allegheny, Delaware Counties With Green Park Award
PA Environmental Professionals Recognize Felicia Dell, York Planning; Suskie Bassmasters
With Karl Mason, Walter Lyon Awards
Bay Journal: Retired PA Forester Dan Devlin's 37-Year Career With Trees Bore Much Fruit
Western PA Conservancy Opens ADA-Accessible Garden In Pittsburgh

Frick Environmental Center In Pittsburgh Achieves Living Building Challenge Certification


Westmoreland Conservation District Announces Winners Of 2018 Envirothon
House Resolution Recognizes 125th Anniversary Of State Forest, State Park System
Senate, House, Gov. Wolf Recognize 125th Anniversary Of Pennsylvania’s State Parks, Forests
PA Water Companies Honor FERC Commissioner Robert F. Powelson With James McGirr
Kelly Award
Penn State Extension Master Watershed Steward Program Receives Governor’s Environmental
Excellence Award
In Memoriam: Robert F. Jondreau, Executive Director, PA Resources Council
DCNR Ranger Jared Pierce Recognized With Governor's Award For Employee Excellence
DEP Attorney Mike Heilman Recognized With Governor's Award For Employee Excellence
EPA Recognizes Children's Hospital Of Philadelphia With Asthma Management Award

Chester Environmental Partnership Honors 5 With 2018 CEP Awards


Honesdale, Wallenpaupack High School Students Win 2018 Wayne, Pike Counties Envirothon
PA American Water Announces Winners Of Protect Our Watersheds Student Art Contest
Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Milestones Award Winners, May 23 Awards Ceremony
Cliff Jones, A Life Well Lived-- Remarks By DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn
PA Parks & Forests Foundation Recognizes 2018 Award Winners
Mid-Atlantic, Western PA Solar Energy Associations Honor Sen. Scavello For New Solar
Energy Law
Reinford Farms, Juniata County, Wins U.S. Innovation Center 2018 Dairy Sustainability Award
For Renewable Energy Projects
Germantown’s Community-Driven Green Infrastructure Upgrade Wins Philadelphia Water’s
Pioneers’ Award

Greater Philadelphia Sustainable Business Network Recognizes Green Infrastructure Projects To

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Reduce Stormwater Pollution
Carmichaels Area High School, Greene County Wins 35th PA State Envirothon
May 31: National Dam Safety Awareness Day, Commemorates Johnstown PA Dam Failure That
Killed Over 2,200 People
The Conservation Fund Purchases 32,598 Acres Of Forest Land In Elk, McKean Counties
PA Parks & Forests Foundation Launches 125th Anniversary State Parks, Forests Celebration
DCNR, Local Groups Join In Celebration Of State Park System's 125th Anniversary At
Washington Crossing Historic Park
Landis Homes Retirement Community Friends Of The Woods & Wetlands Group Receives
Service Award In Lancaster
Pennsylvania Trails Advisory Committee Earns National Recognition
Milton S. Hershey Medical Center Saves Millions Thru Energy Efficiency
Pennsylvania Preserves 550,000th Acre Of Farmland

PA Land Trusts Expanded Conserved Land By 36 Percent In Last 9 Years


ORSANCO River Sweep A Success In PA, 400+ Volunteers Picked Up 35 Tons Of Trash
House Recognizes July As Lake Appreciation Month
Amazon Names Stroud Water Research Center's Model My Watershed A City On A Cloud
Innovation Challenge Winner
State, Local Partners Celebrate Wissahickon Forbidden Drive Trail As Trail Of The Year
Wolf Administration Recognizes PA's 2 Green Ribbon Schools From Allegheny County
PEC Honors Cycling Advocate Robert Thomas, Philadelphia Water Commissioner Debra
McCarty, Philadelphia Eagles Go Green Program
First Electric Bus To Pass New Federal Standard Protocol Does It In Altoona
DCNR, Partners Celebrate Loyalsock Creek’s River Of The Year Honor, PA Rivers Month

Videos From Montgomery, Cumberland, Dauphin Counties Voted Favorites In Great American
Cleanup Of PA Video Contest
Lancaster To Be Site Of First 100% Solar-Powered Hotel In The U.S.
PA Resources Council Signs On As e-Stewards Enterprise For E-Waste Recycling
PennDOT Wins Award For One Of The Largest Endangered Species Conservation Efforts In
North America; WPC Details Relocation Effort
Sen. Yudichak Completes 165-Mile Trek On Delaware & Lehigh Trail In Wilkes-Barre
Keystone Fund Provides 25 Years Of Community Improvements, Economic Benefits
DCNR Recognizes Employees Going Above And Beyond To Support Agency Mission
Dept. Of Agricultural Recognizes Urban Agriculture, Gov. Wolf Issues Proclamation
Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance: Winners Of 2018 Schools, School District Energy
Efficiency Awards
Wildlife For Everyone Foundation Receives National Award For Pennsylvania Wildlife
Magazine

Philadelphia Eagles, Axalta, Stroud Water Research Center Celebrate All-Pro Teachers In
Stream; New Nominations Being Accepted
PA Assn. Of Conservation Districts Presents Awards, Hosts Northeast Meeting Of Conservation
Leaders

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PACD, DEP: Four Pennsylvania Farms Receive 2018 Clean Water Farm Award
PA Resources Council 2017 Annual Report Highlights Work In Litter Prevention, Collection
Events, Zero Waste, Recycling, Watershed Protection, Education
Lacawac Sanctuary Honors Dr. Clyde Goulden, William Leishear, The Dime Bank For
Conservation Leadership Aug. 11
Phipps Conservatory & Botanical Gardens Recognized For Global Sustainability Leadership
John Arway, Executive Director Of The Fish & Boat Commission, To Retire In November
Dave Mankamyer Receives PA Abandoned Mine Reclamation Conference Mayfly Award
2018 Greenways Awards Presented In Clarion, Crawford, Venango Counties Aug. 15
Lancaster County’s Matt Kofroth Receives Watershed Champion Award From Alliance For The
Chesapeake Bay

PA Resources Council Names Winners Of 2018 Environmental Leadership Awards; Awards


Celebration Nov. 15
Brodhead Watershed Assn. Celebration Honors John J. Riley On Sept. 28 In Monroe County
Westmoreland Land Trust Celebrates 10th Anniversary With Wide Open Spaces Party Sept. 22
PA Horticultural Society GROW Magazine Wins Top Garden Writers Award
Photo Of PA's Neshaminy Creek Winner Of Delaware River Basin Commission Summer Photo
Contest; Fall Contest Starts
Green Building Alliance Honors 25 Western PA Green Building Projects On Sept. 20
Northeast Environmental Partners Announce Winners Of 2018 Environmental Leadership
Awards
Buchanan Forest District Resource Center Awarded LEED Silver Certification
DEP-Related Initiatives Selected As Finalists For National Assn. Of State Chief Information
Officer Awards
10,000 Friends Of PA To Recognize Bethlehem With 2018 Commonwealth Awards Dec. 6

Westmoreland Conservation District To Recognize Award Winners Sept. 12


EPA: Pittsburgh Group Wins Contest For Developing Air Monitors In Wildland Fire Sensors
Challenge
Penn State’s Michael Mann Receives 2018 AGU Climate Communications Prize
Penn State Affordable, Sustainable Housing Project Recognized By U.S. Green Building Council
Central PA
U.S. Green Building Council Central PA Chapter To Recognize Green Building Projects Nov. 1
Wildlife Leadership Academy Awards $2,500 In College Scholarships To 5 Teen Conservation
Leaders In Honor Of Ralph Abele
Part I: Boy Scout Takes On 4 Conservation Projects To Qualify For Prestigious William T.
Hornaday Silver Award - Project #1: Saving Cranberry Glade Lake
DCNR Recognizes Boy Scout Peter Livengood With Conservation Award For Projects In And
Near Ohiopyle State Park
Game Commission Proposes To Reclassify 3 Bat Species As Endangered, Make Other Changes
To Threatened, Endangered List
DEP Blog: With Solar Panels, Barbour Family Farm Is Shining Example Of Conservation

PA's Weis Markets Receives Platinum EPA Greenchill Certification For Reducing Refrigerant

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Emissions
Mercer Conservation District Recognizes Dr. Fred Brenner, Lexie Arkwright As Pioneers In
Conservation
Online Story Map Celebrates 125th Anniversary Of Pennsylvania's State Parks, Forests
Stroud Water Research Center To Recognize American Rivers & CEO Bob Irvin With
Freshwater Excellence Award Nov. 29
Clinton County Event Recognizes 25 Years Of Keystone Fund Support For Local Projects
PA Parks & Forests Foundation: Winners Of 2018 Through The Seasons Photo Contest
PA Sea Grant Program Receives John C. Oliver Award From Tom Ridge Environmental Center
Foundation In Erie
2008-2018: What Happened To Pennsylvania’s Environment In The Past 10 Years?
Hawk Mountain Sanctuary’s Dr. Laurie Goodrich Recognized With Raptor Conservation &
Education Award
Centralized Grants Management Initiative For DEP, Other Agencies Winner Of National
Information Technology Award

Centre County, Weis Markets, Trex Company Honor 5th Grade Student Poster Contest Winners
On America Recycles Day, Nov. 15
108,638 Volunteers Picked Up Over 5 Million Pounds Of Trash During 2018 Great American
Cleanup Of PA
Somerset Conservation District Receives National Award For Lambert Run, Flight 93 Site Mine
Drainage Treatment Project
PA Horticultural Society Recognizes Winners Of 2018 Gardening & Greening Contest
LandStudies President Kelly Gutshall Receives Penn State’s 2018 Arts & Architecture Alumni
Award For Landscape Architecture
PA Steelhead Assn. Honors 4 Groups For Land Conservation, Waterways Access Work In Erie
County
National Fuel Gas Company Accepts EPA Methane Challenge
Times-Tribune: Teen Girl Scout Earns Silver Award With Trail Project In Lackawanna County
DCNR Blog: Citizen Science Program Leads To Discovery Of New Moth In PA
DCNR’s Matt Keefer Honored As Chesapeake Bay Forest Champion

Good Natured Pennsylvanians: Henry Bronson, Tioga County Hiker, Angler, Hunter
Schuylkill Action Network 2018 Progress Report, 15th Anniversary Progress Report
PUC #UtilityCareers Campaign Earns International Recognition
Sustainability Expo Highlights Penn State's Leadership In Engaged Scholarship
In Memoriam: John Waffenschmidt, Covanta, Leader On Environmental Justice Issues
DCNR Good Natured Pennsylvanians - Robert Schiffbauer, Township Supervisor In Fayette
County
Western PA Conservancy Conserve Magazine Celebrates 125th Anniversary Of State Parks &
Forests
EPA Recognizes 3 Organizations In PA With 2018 Food Recovery Challenge Awards
Bob & Jane Slagter Of Warren County Recognized As Outstanding PA Tree Farmers Of The
Year
New Report: Outdoor Recreation Is A Bigger Economic Powerhouse Than Construction In PA

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U.S. Postal Service 2019 Forever Stamp Series Features PA’s Clarion River
Tri-County CleanWays In Butler, Lawrence, Mercer Counties Celebrates 25 Years Of Keeping
PA Beautiful
Chairman Gladys Brown Highlights 2018 PUC Accomplishments, Programs
Penn State Extension Master Watershed Stewards Grew To 302 Members, Logged 11,696
Volunteer Hours In 2018
In Memoriam: Donald M. Hoskins, PA State Geologist 1987 - 2001
(​Photo:​ ​Tookany/Tacony-Frankford Watershed Milestones Award Winners​.)
Related PA Environmental Steward Stories:
137 More Stories In 2017 About Hundreds Of Great PA Environmental Stewards
Over 1,160 Stories On Thousands Of PA Environmental Stewards, 160 In 2016 Alone
A 1,000 Stories, On 1,000s Of PA Environmental Stewards Since 2004​ (2015)
117 Stories About Hundreds Of PA Environmental Stewards Honored In 2014
115 Stories About Hundreds Of PA Environmental Stewards Honored In 2013
87 Stories About Hundreds Of Award-Winning Environmental Stewards From 2012
92 Stores About Hundreds Of Award-Winning Environmental Stewards From 2011
92 Stories About Hundreds Of Award-Winning Environmental Stewards From 2010
93 Stories: Be Inspired By Those Recognized For Their Environmental Good Works In 2009
78 Stories: Begin 2009 By Recognizing The Environmental Good Work In 2008, Be Inspired!
Related Stories This Week:
WHERE WE WANT TO BE: Growing A Cleaner, Greener Pennsylvania In 2019: Opportunities
For House And Senate Leadership
WHERE WE ARE: Guide To Legislation Likely To Be Reintroduced In The House, Senate In
2019
WHERE WE WERE: Environmental & Energy Legislation Passed During 2017-18 Session
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

WHERE WE WANT TO BE: Growing A Cleaner, Greener Pennsylvania In 2019:


Opportunities For House And Senate Leadership

The new legislative session starting


January 1 presents an important
opportunity for House and Senate members
to take a leadership role on a variety of
environmental and energy issues to make
Pennsylvania cleaner and greener in 2019.
These leadership opportunities are
defined by some simple principles-- clean
is better than dirty, saving money is better
than wasting it and being organized and
efficient is better than not.
Here are 5 critical environmental
and energy leadership opportunities House
and Senate members can take up in the coming year--

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-- Reduce Water Pollution, Stormwater Flooding
-- Address Chronic Underfunding Of Environmental Programs
-- Reduce Impacts, Threats From Pipelines
-- Mitigate Growing Impacts From Climate Change
-- Reauthorize Critical Federal Programs

Reduce Water Pollution, Stormwater Flooding


The last time the General Assembly took action to provide entirely new funding to
support local, community-based projects to deal with the kinds of water pollution and small
stream flooding threats we face now in Pennsylvania was 17 years ago in 2002.
Gov. Schweiker signed into law an expansion of the Growing Greener Program created
by Gov. Ridge in 1999, 20 years ago The expansion was funded with a new fee on waste
disposed in Pennsylvania.
This was and remains the largest single new investment Pennsylvania ever made to
support local watershed restoration, mine reclamation and farm conservation projects in the
Commonwealth’s history.
Since then, groups like the ​Growing Greener Coalition​ have documented a ​75 percent
reduction in state funding​ for the Growing Greener Program and outlined the obvious need to
​ lick Here​ for the latest.
restore local project funding for these efforts.​ C
Attempts to add “new” funding since 2002 were only trying to backfill the cuts or bring
future revenue into the present in the case of the ​2005 bond issue​. [Note: In 2008, a one-time
bond issue did fund other “hard” drinking water, wastewater, flood control and dam
infrastructure projects with gaming revenues under the ​H2O Program​.]
One specific commitment Pennsylvania made-- to clean up rivers and streams in the 43
counties in the Pennsylvania portion of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed-- will be coming to a
head in 2019 when the state must submit a credible plan on how the Commonwealth will meet
our pollution reduction milestones.
It is clear no plan will be considered credible without a significant and sustained
commitment of new, real, financial and technical help for farmers for conservation practices and
local government stormwater pollution reduction efforts that will be critical to any pollution
cleanup plan. ​Click Here​ for the latest.
Pennsylvania communities face these pollution problems and stormwater flooding issues
statewide, not just in the Bay Watershed..
At the beginning of the LAST legislative session-- January 24, 2017-- a bipartisan group
of Pennsylvania House and Senate members on the Chesapeake Bay Commission ​wrote to all
members of the General Assembly​ pointing out the obvious need for new, dedicated funding to
address the water pollution cleanup problems across the state, but no action to fund the initiative
was ever taken.
Flooding
Another growing challenge is reducing stormwater flood damage.
As widespread “small stream” flooding from storms this past summer has made very
clear, the frequency and severity of heavy precipitation events is increasing. A ​Center for Rural
Pennsylvania study last year​ found these heavy events (5-Year, 2-Day events) have increased in
frequency and duration by 71 percent between 1958 and 2013.
Fortunately, there are potential solutions that uniquely fit this kind of flooding problem--

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installation of green infrastructure.
Green infrastructure is both cheaper than traditional channelization, levees and other
engineered “solutions” and more effective, because it works with nature and, in the case of
forested buffers and restored floodplains, literally grows more effective over time.
The other benefit of green infrastructure is it improves water quality by reducing nutrient
and sediment runoff in addition to reducing damage from stormwater flooding-- offering 3
benefits in one project.
Solutions
There isn’t one solution to these funding issues, there will be many, but they must all be
focused on taking care of the real, priority water quality problems-- like helping farmers and
communities reduce pollution and stormwater flood damage in ways that have multiple benefits
so taxpayers are not hoodwinked into investing into limited practices with minor impacts on the
problems.
Here are several ideas--
-- EITC For Farm Conservation:​ In 2007 the ​Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP)
Farm Conservation Tax Credit Program​ was established to provide tax credits to farmers
installing best management practices.
Each year this program is oversubscribed with eligible requests over the $10 million
appropriation.
This true public-private initiative could easily be expanded to allow other tax paying
companies and individuals to fund local, on-farm conservation practices just like another
successful initiative-- the Education Improvement Tax Credit Program provides funding for
education programs.
Here’s the chance for someone to become the “mother” or “father” of the EITC for farm
conservation.
-- Pay-For-Success Public/Private Investment Program: ​ ​The Pay-For-Success model for
putting farm conservation on the ground allows municipalities to satisfy stormwater pollution
reduction requirements and returns profits to private capital investors who pay for those practices
is gaining ground.
Recently, the National Resources Conservation Service ​awarded a Conservation
Innovation Grant to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation-PA​ to develop a pilot Pay-For-Success
Program with partners ​Red Barn Consulting​ of Lancaster, ​RETTEW Associates​ Consulting of
Lancaster, ​Land O’Lakes, Inc.​,​ and ​Quantified Ventures​ ​of Washington, D.C.
A second NRCS grant funded a pay-for-success project in the ​Brandywine-Christiana
Watershed​ that straddles the Pennsylvania-Delaware border which will bring an estimated $10
million in private investment into that watershed for farm conservation work.
This program has the potential to bring millions of dollars to Pennsylvania to pay for
farm conservation practices. ​(​Click Here​ for more.)
-- Encourage BMP Construction In Local Development:​ ​Thousands of new developments go
in every year all across Pennsylvania. Encouraging these developments to incorporate
stormwater BMPs to reduce nutrient and sediment loads could be huge.
The ​American Water Resources Association recently highlighted the Rock Lititz
Floodplain Restoration Project​ in Lancaster County as an innovative private-public partnership
to reduce sediment and nutrient loads going to the Chesapeake Bay ​without using any taxpayer
money​.

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Mark Gutshall and Lindsey Freidly from ​LandStudies, Inc​. describe how the
world-famous entertainment technology company Clair Global planned its new 93.3 acre Rock
Lititz campus in Warwick Township, Lancaster County to house 13 companies supporting live
entertainment production.
Over 3,100 feet of Santo Domingo Creek runs through the site and offered an opportunity
to maximize land area for development, reduce long-term site costs and employ best
management practices to permanently reduce flooding and water pollution coming from the site.
Rock Lititz committed an estimated $755,000 for the floodplain restoration initiative
because they recognized the environmental, community and economic benefits of using the
floodplain restoration technique. ​(​Click Here​ for more.)
One of the hangups, was the length of time it took to get a DEP permit.
Expedited, priority permit review times for these sorts of public-private,
no-cost-to-the-taxpayer projects would be a huge help in encouraging these types of projects.
-- Double-Down On Recreation Investments By Including Stormwater BMPs:
Communities all across the state are starting to realize that ​local and regional parks and
recreation facilities can be fully integrated into helping those communities comply with MS4
stormwater pollution reduction requirements​.
Parkland is often leftover land, land with environmental constraints such as wetlands,
floodplains, and steep slopes, or land a developer did not want or could not develop. Parks and
underutilized open space offer settings that help to address these challenges.
Instead of single-purpose solutions that may address one aspect of environmental
challenges, solutions that consider all of a municipality’s assets, including parks and
underutilized lands, may yield multiple benefits in stormwater management and reduced
flooding.
In fact, both the ​Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and EPA have
step-by-step guides and other resources​ to help communities realize these benefits. ​(C ​ lick Here
for more.)
Again, expediting permits, changing grant award criteria to encourage multiple benefit
projects, could encourage more of these projects to more effectively use the scarce resources we
now have.
-- Keystone Tree Fund: ​Legislation creating the Keystone Tree Fund to provide funding for
the ​TreeVitalize​ and ​Riparian Forest Buffer Grant Program​ by creating a $3 checkoff box on
vehicle and drivers’ licenses was introduced in the House and Senate in 2018. It’s another tool
to not only providing funding, but to get more individuals involved in the effort to reduce water
pollution. ​Click Here​ for more.
The data-driven ​Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Program​ now underway has
already documented the most cost-effective ​green infrastructure solutions​ for nutrient and
sediment reduction and that information can be a guide to adopting these strategies all across the
state.
The ​Funding Workgroup of the PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering
Committee ​will be presenting more specific funding suggestions in January or February.
In addition, counties ​like Lancaster​, York, Adams and Franklin nowgoing through the
locally-drive clean water planning process in Bay Watershed are coming up with their own ideas
for how water quality programs can be funded and advanced.
The ​Penn State Agriculture and Environment Center’s 2019 PA In The Balance

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Conference​ February 6-8 will also result in more recommendations related to on-farm
conservation funding and technical assistance needs and solutions.
These stakeholder-driven, locally-focused recommendations are something legislative
leaders need to pay attention to.

Address Chronic Underfunding Of Environmental Programs


General Fund support for environmental protection programs in DEP has been cut 40
percent over the last decade and DEP’s staff by over 25 percent. DEP now has ​about the same
state funding it did in 1994-95​, but with many more responsibilities.
If you have trouble visualizing the impact of these reductions, just think of a 3-legged
dog.
At the beginning of the LAST legislative session-- February 22, 2017-- ​DEP’s Citizens
Advisory Council wrote a letter to House and Senate​ Appropriations Committee Chairs
expressing serious concerns about current funding levels at DEP saying, in part, “consistent cuts
to DEP over the last 2 decades has reached an unsustainable level.”
The Council said, “Over the last 14 years, DEP has diligently done more with less
funding, less staff, and less resources while fixed costs have continued to rise and unfunded
mandates, both at the state and federal level, have also sharply risen.
“To respond to this gap, DEP has looked to the regulated community for increased permit
and annual fees just to cover the general cost of operation and staffing levels to handle the
increased permitting and inspection requirements that have been instituted on the department
through legislation and the courts.”
The letter also points out DEP has received several notices from federal agencies citing
failure to meet even minimum federal standards for programs DEP administers for the federal
government.
For FY 2018-19, Gov. Wolf requested and the General Assembly appropriated additional
funds to DEP to support 35 new positions for key programs like Safe Drinking Water, Mining,
Air Quality and more, primarily geared to speeding up permit reviews or avoiding federal
sanctions for not meeting minimum program standards.
On December 18, the Environmental Quality Board just ​adopted another $22 million in
proposed and final regulations increasing permit fees​ for Air Quality, NPDES, Water Quality
and Noncoal Mining Permits.
As more than one member of the Board said at the meeting, the unending increases in
permit fees on businesses, local governments and individuals will reach a breaking point where
the fees will be unaffordable.
As part of ​each proposed fee increase package​, DEP also lists the steps it has taken to
improve efficiencies in the program and reduce paperwork and permit review times to the extent
it can within the resources it has.
DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell outlined many of the agency-wide efficiency steps in
his ​budget testimony last year​ and announced ​e-Permitting initiatives​ for oil and gas well
drilling, Chapter 105 General Permit applications and more this past year.
Many of the e-Permitting initiatives remain a work in progress because of the limited
resources DEP has to apply to them.
In February, the ​Senate adopted Senate Resolution 226​ sponsored by Sen. John Yudichak
(D-Luzerne), Minority Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee,

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requiring the ​Legislative Budget and Finance Committee ​to do an independent performance
evaluation of DEP’s Chapter 102 (Erosion and Sedimentation) and Chapter 105 (Water
Obstruction and Encroachment) -- DEP’s basic land development permit programs.
The Committee is required to consider the efficiency and effectiveness of permitting
programs by examining varied outlooks, including resources and workloads (overall and by
office), performance levels, policies and procedures, fee and incentive structures, applications
and outcomes, input and efforts by DEP and applicants, and best practices.
Recommendations for practical legislative solutions are to be provided in a report to the
Senate. Currently, the report is scheduled be released in February or March.
These recommendations should be very helpful in guiding future legislative decision
making on funding and permit reforms.
Specific Issues
Financial support for the state’s ​Hazardous Sites Cleanup Program​ has been
highlighted as a critical issue in each of the last 2 years by DEP, but in September, DEP took it a
step further by telling the Citizens Advisory Council the ​program faces a “fiscal cliff”​ in FY
2020-21.
In addition to all of the challenges HSCA faces, the emerging issue (at least in
Pennsylvania) of ​PFAS groundwater contaminiation​ is likely to drive bipartisan discussion of
funding for this program, particularly when the results of the water sampling being undertaken to
identify sources of contamination around the state are released by the ​Governor’s PFAS Action
Team​.
The ​Joint State Government Commission​ and a special ​Senate Lead Exposure Task
Force​ will be making recommendations on reducing exposure to another hazardous substance--
lead-- as early as April in 2019 as a result of ​Senate Resolution 33​, sponsored by Sen. John
Yudichak (D-Luzerne), Minority Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy
Committee.
This also might become another bipartisan issue that drives further funding initiatives to
deal with lead exposure from drinking water and from other sources. ​Click Here​ for more.
The ​long-term investment needs of state parks and forest infrastructure​ will be
highlighted by the ​PA Parks and Forest Foundation​ in a upcoming ​Legacy Of Pennsylvania’s
State Parks And Forests: The Future Is In Our Hands​ report due out in early 2019. The report
was previewed in the Foundation’s ​newsletter in May of 2018​.
How to provide for the ​financial stability of the Game and Fish and Boat
Commissions​ was a contentious topic in the 2017-18 legislative session. But, ​all 4 Chairs of the
Senate and House Game and Fisheries Committees ​“promised” in October​ to work on proposals
to stabilize the financial futures of the Commissions in 2019, so we’ll see. ​Click Here​ for more.​
Reckoning
The time has come for House and Senate members to recognize they had a big part in
creating the financial fix DEP and other environmental programs find themselve in and it’s up to
them to help fix it in real, meaningful ways.
Targeted investments to speed adoption of e-Permitting done the right way, provide
needed staff in key programs-- like was done in FY 2018-19 in a limited way, and redistributing
workloads and other management reforms are clearly what is needed to solve many of the permit
review turnaround times and still meet state and federal statutory and public participation
requirements.

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There also needs to be cooperation on the part of permit applicants to give DEP permit
applications that are complete and able to be reviewed promptly.
These steps-- not so coincidentally-- are the same steps businesses take to ensure they
serve their customers as effectively and efficiently as possible, something House and Senate
members should understand.
Good managers don’t keep berating their own employees and cutting their support out
from under them, if they want better results.

Reduce Impacts, Threats From Pipelines


The ​explosion of a brand new natural gas pipeline​ in Beaver County in September put an
exclamation point, if one was needed, on safety, siting and inspection issues surrounding major
pipelines in the state.
That explosion followed an ​explosion of another newly-constructed natural gas pipeline
just across the border in West Virginia in July.
The PUC’s investigation of the Beaver County explosion is still active and ongoing.
DEP inspections in November found ​unreported landslides on the right-of-way​ and other issues.
Multiple hearings by the Senate and House in 2018 pointed to significant issues of
concern to residents who live near and in some cases almost on natural gas and other hazardous
liquid pipelines in the state.
A​ Senate hearing in March​ pointed to the need to hold pipeline companies accountable
for impacts, providing for the safety of nearby residents and for better regulation of the routes
taken by pipelines.
At ​another Senate Committee meeting​ in June, Sen. Don White (R-Indiana) took the
highly unusual step of singling out one pipeline company by name. He said if the issues raised at
the Senate hearing are only about one company [Sunoco Mariner East Pipelines] “we should be
able to deal with that company and put them out of business.”
A ​House hearing in July​ saw both the head of DEP and the vice-chair of the Public
Utility Commission say there needs to be a “serious conversation” about how Pennsylvania can
have a meaningful role in siting pipelines in the state.
The Public Utility Commission this year took over administrative responsibility for the
enforcement of the ​PA One Call utility and pipeline damage prevention program​, which
consolidates some pipeline safety programs in one agency.
A number of Senate and House ​bills were also introduced on pipeline-related issues​, but
none of them saw final action.
A ​complaint filed with the Public Utility Commission by Sen. Andy Dinniman
(D-Chester) on construction and safety issues surrounding the Mariner East 2 Pipeline resulted in
a temporary order ceasing construction, but the bulk of the case is still making its way through
the Administrative Law Judge process.
The PUC has taken a number of other ​actions against the Mariner East Pipelines​ on
construction and safety issues during 2018, including most recently a ​proposed $225,000 penalty
for an ethane/propane leak from Marine East 1.
DEP has also taken high-profile enforcement actions against the Mariner East 2 Pipeline,
including collecting a ​record $12.6 million penalty​ for water quality and other violations and
completely shutting down construction at one point.
Earlier in December, the District Attorney in Chester County announced he was opening

13
a ​criminal investigation into Mariner East Pipelines construction practices​.
Various legal challenges to the ​application of local zoning ordinances to pipelines​ and
eminent domain in state and federal courts have gone nowhere, primarily because of federal laws
regulating the siting and approvals for pipelines.
In April, however, ​Commonwealth Court agreed to hear an eminent domain challenge
based on Pennsylvania’s unique Environmental Rights Amendment to the state constitution.
Just about 3 years ago-- ​in February 2016-- the ​Governor’s Pipeline Task Force presented
a series of 184​ suggestions to Gov. Wolf to help Pennsylvania achieve responsible development
of natural gas pipeline infrastructure in the state, but there have been no systemic report on
where the state is in implementing those suggestions.
By some estimates, another 30,000 to 35,000 miles of major pipelines will be built in
Pennsylvania over the next decade. Major investments in pipelines and other natural gas
infrastructure are to continue at the ​same high levels through 2035​, according to a recent study.
This issue is not going away and will continue through 2019 and beyond. The question
is, will the House and Senate provide the leadership Pennsylvanians are asking for to address the
very real concerns residents have about pipelines.
Without action, the public will lose what confidence they have that their issues will be
dealt with and it will only become harder to build the natural gas infrastructure needed for this
in-demand resource.

Mitigate Growing Impacts From Climate Change


There have been a ​flurry of climate-related proposals​ of various types in the last 60 days
in Pennsylvania.
But, when it comes down to taking any action on climate change-related issues in the
House and Senate, the discussion will be driven by how to save Pennsylvania’s nuclear power
plants from closing.
On November 29 the ​Senate-House Nuclear Energy Caucus​ released ​a report
summarizing their findings​ on the impact of closing nuclear power plants in the state and
outlining potential solutions.
The report, which was sent to all members of the General Assembly and to Gov. Wolf,
included four options-- one of the options was to impose a carbon tax on energy sources.
Putting a price on carbon is also part of a rulemaking petition submitted to the
Environmental Quality Board on November 27 proposing Pennsylvania adopted a
California-style ​cap-and-trade program for greenhouse gas emissions​.
DEP is reviewing the petition now, but any action to move ahead with the proposal will
only come after a decision by the EQB to accept it for formal study. The next meeting of the
Board is in February.
DEP is scheduled to release its 2018 ​Update to the PA Climate Action Plan in February
that includes a laundry list of recommendations on how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
That list will be judged against the emission reductions needed to meet the goals established in
the 2015 U.N. Paris Climate Agreement.
Pennsylvania has already met the 2030 greenhouse gas reduction goals of the original
EPA Clean Power Plan covering the power generation sector, largely due to the switch of electric
generation to natural gas. ​Click Here​ for more.
On December 3, Auditor General Eugene ​DePasquale announced plans to prepare a

14
special report​ exploring how Pennsylvania is responding to climate change.
DePasquale said his report will focus on state government’s response to climate change
and steps that can better prepare the state for the future, noting the problem will impact
communities of all sizes.
One specific mitigation issue was raised last year by the ​Center for Rural Pennsylvania
study​ that found heavy precipitation events ​(5-Year, 2-Day events) ​have increased in frequency
and duration by 71 percent between 1958 and 2013.
Studies like this point to a significant and policy issue-- our fundamental assumption in
regulation and policy that a 2-year, 24-hour storm should be the standard on which to base the
design of stormwater management practices and in calculating things like freeboard in waste
impoundments-- is clearly wrong.
The ​Center for Rural Pennsylvania study​ made a series of recommendations for state
action to respond to this increase in flooding events-- one of the most widespread and
life-threatening issues in the state.
All this is not to say there won’t be leadership opportunities on some very specific issues,
in particular related to energy and climate. These initiatives were all introduced with bipartisan
support in 2017-18--
-- Microgrids:​ creating a regulatory framework to encourage energy storage and microgrids to
improve electric grid resiliency during disaster emergencies and other circumstances. ​Click Here
for more.
-- Electric Vehicle Infrastructure:​ Encouraging the development of infrastructure for electric
and natural gas fueled vehicles. ​Click Here​ for more.
-- Act 129 Energy Conservation Program:​ Updating the very successful Act 129 utility Energy
Conservation Program requirements for electric utilities and expanding them to natural gas
utilities. ​Click Here​ for more.
-- Community Solar:​ Authorizing community solar electric generation systems. ​Click Here​ for
more.

Reauthorize Critical Federal Programs


Reauthorization of the federal ​Abandoned Mine Reclamation fee​ is critical to the
success of Pennsylvania’s efforts to deal with our second leading cause of polluted waterways--
drainage from abandoned coal mines.
DEP staff outlined the agency’s concerns at a ​July meeting of the Citizens Advisory
Council​ and the short timeline for action-- the fee expires in 2021.
Over the last 5 years, DEP completed a total of 1,012 reclamation projects spending a
total of over $120.5 million in federal, state and capital budget (for dedicate mine drainage
treatment plants) funds.
DEP completes between 50 and 100 emergency reclamation projects every year, almost
all supported by federal funding.
None of this could happen without federal funding support because state project funding
through Growing Greener and other programs have been cut significantly. ​Click Here​ for more.
Also on the table in Congress is the ​bipartisan RECLAIM initiative​ that would provide
funding for reclaiming local abandoned mine sites with economic development potential. ​Click
Here​ for more.
One recent bright spot in federal action was Congressional reauthorization of the ​federal

15
Farm Bill​ that contains funding critical to farm and forest conservation efforts statewide and
specifically for the 43 counties in the Pennsylvania portion of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.
Click Here​ for more.
There is also the ongoing battle over whether the current administration in Washington,
D.D. will fund the ​bread-and-butter air, water and waste permit and cleanup programs
Pennsylvania and other states administer for the federal government.
How critical are these funds? About ​30 percent of DEP’s funding now comes from the
feds​, 20 percent from the General Fund and 50 percent from fees and some fines.
Another critical program-- the federal ​Land and Water Conservation Fund​-- expired
on September 30 without being reauthorized by Congress.
The Land and Water Conservation Fund has provided more than $309 million in funding
to support projects in Pennsylvania like public park development and land conservation in
counties and municipalities across the state. ​Click Here​ for more.
Congress also failed to pass the bipartisan federal ​Recovering America’s Wildlife Act
that would provide stable funding for Pennsylvania’s fish and wildlife with the greatest
conservation needs.
Both the Fish and Boat and Game Commission has been urging Congress to act on this
critical legislation. ​Click Here​ for more.
Epilogue
These are just a few of the major opportunities for leadership Senate and House members
will be faced with in 2019.
And voters will be watching what legislators do on these issues.
They’re watching because it is our families, homes, jobs and communities that are on the
line.
Voters need backup from the politicians they send to Harrisburg. Let’s hope we get it.
(​Photo:​ Award Winning Stream Restoration Project on ​Lancaster County Plain Sect Farm​.)

(Written By: David E. Hess, Former Secretary Pennsylvania Department of Environmental


Protection. Send comments to: ​PaEnviroDigest@gmail.com.​ )
Related Stories:
Be Inspired! Stories About Hundreds Of Great PA Environmental Stewards In 2018
WHERE WE ARE: Guide To Legislation Likely To Be Reintroduced In The House, Senate In
2019
WHERE WE WERE: Environmental & Energy Legislation Passed During 2017-18 Session
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

WHERE WE ARE: Guide To Legislation Likely To Be Reintroduced In The House, Senate


In 2019

The following is a list of bills-- good and bad--


likely to be reintroduced in the House and Senate
early in 2019--

-- Water Quality Protection--


--​Good:​ ​Lawn Fertilizer

16
Regulation/Education:​ ​Senate Bill 792​ (Alloway-R-Franklin) regulating the application of
fertilizer by homeowners, golf courses and athletic fields passed the Senate in March of this year.
The House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee ​held a hearing on the bill​ in June, but took
no further action. This effort has been underway for 8 years. The bill is sponsored by Sen.
Richard Alloway, one of Pennsylvania’s representatives on the ​Chesapeake Bay Commission​.
Click Here​ for more.
-- Good: Keystone Tree Fund: ​House Bill 2486​ (Everett-R-Lycoming) creating the Keystone
Tree Fund to providing funding for the Treevitalize and Riparian Forest Buffer Grant Program
by creating a $3 checkoff box on vehicle and drivers’ licenses was reported out of the House
Transportation Committee at the end of September and was Tabled, not seeing further action.
Click Here​ for more.
-- Good: Eastern Hellbender:​ ​Senate Bill 658​ (Yaw-R-Lycoming), which would have
designated the Eastern Hellbender as the state amphibian and clean water ambassador, remains
stuck in the House State Government Committee without action. By not acting, the House let
down the high school students who worked 2 years on the designation and the thousands of
people who signed a petition supporting the legislation. ​Click Here​ for more.
-- Oil & Gas Development, Infrastructure Issues--
-- ​Threat: ​Conventional Drilling:​ ​House Bill 2154​ (Causer-R-Cameron) which would weaken
environmental standards for conventional (not Shale) oil and gas drilling (​Senate Fiscal Note​,
House Fiscal Note​ and summaries) was stuck on the Senate Calendar for action. ​Click Here​ for
more.
-- Pipeline Issues
-- Good: Pipeline Commission:​ ​Senate Resolution 373​ (Rafferty-R-Montgomery)-- a
concurrent Senate-House resolution to establish a Senate-House legislative Commission to Study
Pipeline Construction and Operations and to recommend improvements for the safe transport of
oil, natural gas and other hazardous liquids through pipelines was put back on the Calendar
October 1.
-- ​Good: ​Landowner Bill Of Rights: ​Senate Bill 1199​ (Rafferty-R-Montgomery)-- providing
for a landowners’ bill of rights in cases of eminent domain, including by private entities like
pipeline companies (​sponsor summary​)-- was also ​reported out of Committee in June​ and sat on
the Senate Calendar since then.
-- ​Good: ​Emergency Pipeline Notification:​ ​Senate Bill 930​ (Dinniman-D- Chester) setting
notification requirements related to pipeline emergencies (​sponsor summary​) sat on the Senate
Calendar since October 2.
-- ​Good: ​Safety Valves:​ ​Senate Bill 931​ (Dinniman-D-Chester) requiring the installation of
automatic or remote controlled safety values in natural gas pipelines in densely populated areas
was reported out of committee in November of last year and remained on the Senate Calendar
without action since then.
-- ​Threat: Critical Infrastructure Protection:​ ​Senate Bill 652​ (Regan-R-Cumberland),
which would make it a felony to simply trespass on the right-of-way of pipelines, electric power
lines, railroad tracks, refineries or on the property of any of 21 other “critical infrastructure
facilities” outlined in the bill passed the Senate in May. It grew out of a concern to not have a
repeat of the mass demonstrations that accompanied the Dakota Access Pipeline. Members in the
Senate expressed concerns about the bill infringing on First Amendment rights. The bill got
stuck in the ​House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee​. ​Click Here​ for more.

17
Threat: ​Another bill-- ​Senate Bill 754​ (Martin-R-Lancaster)-- was introduced, but not
considered by the ​Senate State Government Committee​, tries to address the same issue by
imposing the public costs for dealing with any “public assembly, meeting or gathering” entirely
on the individuals doing the protesting. ​Click Here​ for more.
-- No Help: Natural Gas Severance Tax: ​Several proposals to impose a severance tax on
natural gas production failed to see action and ​NONE of them​ would provide funding for
environmental programs. Despite a promise by House Republican Leadership, House Bill 1401
(DiGirolamo-R-Bucks) never ​was given a final vote in the House​. It remained on the House
Calendar for action since November 20, 2017. The other primary bills include ​Senate Bill 1000
(Yudichak-D-Luzerne) and ​House Bill 2253​ (Wheatley-D-Allegheny), ​a bipartisan proposal that
never left committee​.
-- Helps: Natural Gas Lease Royalties:​ ​Senate Bill 138​ (Yaw-R-Lycoming) providing oil and
gas royalty interest landowners access to records of drilling companies to verify proper payment
of royalties (​sponsor summary​) died in the House Environmental Resources and Energy
Committee. Another bill on the same topic-- ​House Bill 557​ (Everett-R-Lycoming)-- also was
left in Committee.
-- ​Threat: Regulatory and Permitting "Reform" Bills​ - In May the House passed a 5 bill
package of regulatory and permitting “reform” bills that would effectively hamstring the
adoption of regulations by state agencies, including environmental regulations, and allow private
consultants to take over review of DEP permits. The bills, thankfully, saw no action in the
Senate. ​Click Here​ for more.
The bills include--
-- ​Threat: ​Killing A Regulation By Doing Nothing:​ ​House Bill 1237​ (Keefer-R-York)
authorizes the General Assembly to kill an economically significant final regulation from any
agency by doing nothing and not passing a concurrent regulation to approve the regulation. The
bill died in the ​Senate Rules Committee​. (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary.)
This legislation is similar to a bill-- ​Senate Bill 561 (DiSanto-R-Dauphin)​-- passed by the
Senate on June 13 last year by a party-line vote (Republicans supporting) allowing the General
Assembly to kill regulations by doing nothing. The bill died in the ​House State Government
Committee​.
-- ​Threat: ​Taking Permit Reviews Away From DEP, State Agencies Giving It To Third
Parties:​ ​House Bill 1959​ (Rothman-R-Cumberland) establishes the Pennsylvania Permit Act
which requires agencies to create and develop a navigable online permit tracking system and
takes authority to issue certain permits away from state agencies like DEP and creates a new
bureaucracy of third-party reviewers. The bill died in the ​Senate Intergovernmental Operations
Committee​. (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary.)
There was no mention of the fact the General Assembly and Governors have cut DEP
General Fund money going to DEP by 40 percent over the last decade with the resulting loss of
over 25 percent of its staff. ​Click Here​ for more.
-- ​Threat: ​Cap On Number Of Regulations:​ ​House Bill 209​ (Phillips-Hill-R-York):
Establishes the Independent Office of the Repealer, a new bureaucracy to undertake an ongoing
review of existing regulations; receive and process recommendations; and make
recommendations to the General Assembly, the governor, and executive agencies for repeal. It
also places a cap on all regulations and requires agencies to delete two regulations for every new
regulations agencies seek to adopt. It is modeled after policies adopted by the Trump

18
Administration. The bill died in the ​Senate Rules Committee​, but its prime sponsor was elected
to the Senate in November. (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary).
-- ​Threat: ​Waiving Penalties:​ ​House Bill 1960​ (Ellis-R-Butler) which requires each agency to
appoint a Regulatory Compliance Officer with the authority to waive fines and penalties if a
permit holder “attempts” to comply is now in the ​Senate Intergovernmental Operations
Committee​. (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary.)
-- ​Threat: ​Repeal Any Regulation By Resolution:​ ​House Bill 1792​ (Benninghoff-R-Mifflin)
gives the General Assembly the ability to repeal any state regulation in effect by a concurrent
resolution by requiring a single vote in the Senate and House. The process is modeled after a
federal procedure used by the Trump Administration to repeal regulations (​sponsor summary​).
Currently, the General Assembly can repeal any regulation by passing a new law which
involves a more extensive committee review and several votes each by the Senate and House.
(​House Fiscal Note​ and summary.)
The bill died in the ​Senate Rules Committee​, but its prime sponsor is now a member of
House Republican leadership.
-- ​Threat: Automatic Review Of Significant Regulations:​ ​Senate Bill 1231
(Brooks-R-Crawford), which would require an automatic review of “economically significant”
regulations every three years moving forward, was introduced in August. The bill died in the
Senate Rules Committee​ (​sponsor summary​).
-- Recycling--
-- ​Good: ​Electronics Waste Recycling Program Reform:​ On October 30, 2017 the Senate
Environmental Resources and Energy Committee held a hearing on ​Senate Bill 800​ (Alloway-R-
Franklin) which totally revamps the whole electronics waste recycling law and put in its place a
new system that he believes will fix many of the problems. The bill died in Committee. ​Click
Here​ for more.
-- Energy - Renewable, Conservation--
-- Good: Microgrids:​ ​House Bill 1412​ (Barrar-R-Delaware) proposing a regulatory
framework to encourage energy storage and microgrids to improve electric grid resiliency during
disaster emergencies and other circumstances (​sponsor summary​) was the subject of two
hearings by the House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee. The bill was
briefly reported out and then back to the Committee. ​Click Here​ for more.
-- Good: Electric Vehicle Infrastructure:​ ​House Bill 1446​ (Quinn-R-Bucks) encouraging the
development of infrastructure for electric and natural gas fueled vehicles (​sponsor summary​) was
the subject of a House Transportation Committee hearing in November 2017, was reported out of
the Committee but then sat on the House Calendar with no further action. ​Click Here​ for more.
-- Good: Act 129 Energy Conservation Program:​ ​Senate Bill 1236
(McGarrigle-R-Delaware) just introduced this bill in the Senate in September to update the very
successful Act 129 utility Energy Conservation Program requirements for electric utilities. The
prime sponsor, however, lost his bid for re-election in November, but others are likely to take up
the cause. ​Click Here​ for more.
-- ​Good: ​Community Solar:​ ​House Bill 2681​ (Santora-R-Delaware and a bipartisan group of
cosponsors) would authorize community solar electric generation systems was just introduced
this month. The prime sponsor, however, lost his bid for re-election in November, but others are
likely to take up the cause. ​Click Here​ for more.
-- Wildlife --

19
-- ​Good: ​Game, Fish Commission Fees:​ Legislation passed the Senate in March of 2017
giving the Game and Fish and Boat Commissions the ability to set their own fees by regulation
died in the ​House Game and Fisheries Committee​. ​Senate Bill 30​ (Eichelberger-R-Blair)
authorizing the Fish and Boat Commission to adopt its own fees also died in Committee. ​Senate
Bill 192​ (Stefano-R-Fayette) authorizing the Game Commission to adopt its own fees was
Tabled in the House Committee. Controversy over the bills cost Fish and Boat Commission
Executive Director ​John Arway his job​ due to Senate and House opposition (not the Commission
Board) to his advocacy for changing the way fees are adopted. The new Executive Director--
Tim Schaeffer-- has also made getting the Fish and Boat Commission on firmer financial ground.
All 4 Chairs of the Senate and House Game and Fisheries Committees also ​“promised” to work
to the same end​ at the same time Arway “retired.” ​Click Here​ for more.​
(​Photo: ​Eastern Hellbender proposed as the state amphibian and clean water ambassador.​ )
Related Stories:
Be Inspired! Stories About Hundreds Of Great PA Environmental Stewards In 2018
WHERE WE WANT TO BE: Growing A Cleaner, Greener Pennsylvania In 2019: Opportunities
For House And Senate Leadership
WHERE WE WERE: Environmental & Energy Legislation Passed During 2017-18 Session
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

WHERE WE WERE: Environmental & Energy Legislation Passed During 2017-18 Session

The major environmental and energy bills becoming


law in the 2017-18 legislative session include--
2018 -----------
-- ​Steel Slag Waste Exemption:​ ​Senate Bill 497
(Vogel-R-Beaver) exempting steel slag from the
definition of waste under certain circumstances. A
House Fiscal Note​ and summary is available.
Signed into law as Act 7.
-- ​Farm High Tunnels:​ ​House Bill 1486
(Zimmerman-R-Lancaster) exempting agricultural
high-tunnel structures from the Stormwater
Management Act (​House Fiscal Note​ and
summary). Signed into law as Act 15.
-- ​Mine Medical Personnel:​ ​House Bill 1341​ (Pyle-R-Armstrong) further providing for training
and certification of emergency medical personnel responding to bituminous deep mine
accidents.. A ​House Fiscal Note​ and summary is available. Signed into law as Act 16.
-- ​Local Clean Energy Funding:​ ​Senate Bill 234​ (Blake-D-Lackawanna), Property Assessed
Clean Energy Financing Program, that authorizes local governments to create energy
improvement districts to help fund energy efficiency, renewable energy and water conservation
projects for commercial, agricultural and industrial buildings to reduce their operating costs
(​Senate Fiscal Note​ and summary). Signed into law as Act 30.
-- ​Fiscal Code-Multiple Provisions:​ ​House Bill 1929​ (Marsico-R- Dauphin) amending the
Fiscal Code includes a new Private Dam Financial Assurance and Loan Program, direction to
DCNR on developing ATV trails and more funding for small water and sewer projects (​Senate

20
Fiscal Note​ and summary, ​House Fiscal Note​ and summary). ​Click Here​ for a summary by
House Democrats. ​Click Here​ for more. S ​ igned into law as Act 42.
-- Limiting Eminent Domain:​ ​House Bill 2468​ limiting the use of eminent domain by
government agencies on land with conservation easements for parks and open space purposes
except for emergency condemnation and condemnation by public utilities (​House Fiscal Note​).
Click Here​ for more.​ Signed into law as Act 45.
-- ​Alternative Ratemaking:​ House Bill 1782​ (Delozier-R-Cumberland) authorizing alternative
ratemaking such as decoupling, performance-based, multiyear and other mechanisms for utilities
regulated by the PUC, including electric, natural gas, water and wastewater services (​Senate
Fiscal Note​ and summary). ​Click Here​ for more. S ​ igned into law as Act 58.
-- Littering/Dumping​:​ Senate Bill 431​ (Scavello-R-Monroe) authorizes the designation of local
litter enforcement corridors where fines are doubled for certain offences or even tripled for
commercial littering or illegal dumping and designates all scenic highways as litter enforcement
corridors (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary). ​ ​Click Here​ for more. ​ Signed into law as Act 61.
-- Disposal Of Hospice Medication:​ ​Senate Bill 978​ (Baker-R-Luzerne) disposal of unused
medicines in hospice or for home health care patients (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary). Signed
into law as Act 69.
-- Recreation Liability:​ ​House Bill 544​ (Moul-R-Adams) further providing for liability
protection for landowners opening their land for public recreation (​Senate Fiscal Note​ and
summary). Signed into law as Act 98.
-- ​Leaf Waste Recycling:​ ​House Bill 927​ ​(Rader-R-Monroe) amends Act 101 Municipal Waste
Planning and Recycling Act to eliminate the mandate on smaller municipalities to have a leaf
waste collection program (​Senate Fiscal Note​ and summary). Signed into law as Act 101.
-- ​One-Stop-Business Center:​ ​House Bill 1284​ (Peifer-R-Pike) directs DCED to develop a
one-stop-shop online business formation and permitting portal for business (​Senate Fiscal Note
and summary). Signed into law as Act 107.
-- ​Lead Service Lines:​ ​House Bill 2075​ (Charlton-R-Delaware) authorizing rate recovery for
customer-owned lead water service lines (​Senate Fiscal Note​ and summary). Signed into law as
Act 120.
-- ​DEP ​Agricultural Advisory Board:​ ​Senate Bill 1171​ (Brooks-R-Crawford) provides detailed
procedures for DEP to consult with the existing ​Agricultural Advisory Board​ on the adoption of
technical guidance, changes to permits affecting agriculture and regulations (​House Fiscal Note
and summary). Signed into law as Act 162.
2017 ----------
-- ​Timber On Federal Land:​ ​House Bill 1494​ (Rapp-R-Forest) authorizing the state to enter
into a cooperative agreement with federal agencies for the purpose of selling timber on federal
land (​Senate Fiscal Note​ and summary). Signed into law as Act 25.
-- ​Alternative Septic Systems:​ ​Senate Bill 144​ (Yaw-R-Lycoming) amending Act 537 on
include alternative on-lot sewage systems in sewage plans (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary).
Signed into law as Act 26.
-- ​Natural Gas Vehicles: ​Senate Bill 589​ (Langerholc-R-Bedford) increasing maximum
allowable weight for natural gas vehicles (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary). ​Click Here​ for
more.​ Signed into law as Act 31.
-- ​Roll Back Stream Protections From Mining:​ ​Senate Bill 624​ (Scarnati-R-Jefferson)
retroactively rolling back protections for streams from deep coal mining (​House Fiscal Note​ and

21
summary). ​(​Click Here​ for more.)​ Gov. Wolf allowed this bill to become law without his
signature as Act 32.
-- ​Uniform ​Construction Code:​ ​House Bill 409 ​(Evankovich-R- Allegheny) making changes to
the process for adopting amendments to the Uniform Construction Code, including energy
efficiency standards (​Senate Fiscal Note​ and summary). ​Click Here​ for more.​ Signed into law as
Act 36.
-- ​Sunset For $2/ton Recycling Fee Eliminated:​ Part of the Administrative Code bill-- ​House
Bill 118​-- that became law included a provision eliminating the sunset date on the $2/ton
Recycling Fee ensuring financial stability for the state’s local Recycling Program into the future
(​Senate Fiscal Note​ and summary). ​Click Here​ for more.​ Signed into law as Act 40.
-- Closing Solar Borders: ​A provision requiring solar energy credits under the Alternative
Energy Portfolio Standards to be purchased within Pennsylvania also became law as part of
House Bill 118​ (​Senate Fiscal Note​ and summary). Signed into law as Act 40.
-- ​Manganese Standard:​ Included in the Administrative Code bill-- ​House Bill 118​ (Kaufer-R-
Luzerne)-- is a provision which directs the Environmental Quality Board to adopt a proposed
manganese standard within 90 days that includes the 1 milligram/liter manganese standard
established under ​25 Pa Code Chapter 93.7​ and insure the standard is met at the point of intake
for water suppliers (​25 Pa Code Chapter 96.3​). The 1 milligram/liter standard is 20 times the
level of manganese that water suppliers are allowed to have in their water supplies, according to
EPA’s secondary maximum contaminant level (​Senate Fiscal Note​ and summary). ​Click Here​ for
more.​ Signed into law as Act 40.
-- ​Wild Resource Conservation Tax Checkoff:​ This checkoff was permanently reauthorized as
part of the Tax Code bill-- ​House Bill 542​-- that became law. It helps assure funding for
DCNR’s ​Wild Resource Conservation Program​ (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary). Signed into
law as Act 43.
-- ​Funding Sewer/Water Laterals:​ A section of the Fiscal Code bill-- ​House Bill 674​-- that
became law allows public municipal authorities to use funds to replace private water and sewer
laterals (​Senate Fiscal Note​ and summary). This was proposed originally to help the Pittsburgh
Water Authority deal with lead service lines. Signed into law as Act 44.
-- ​Noxious Weeds: ​House Bill 790​ (Pashinski-D-Luzerne) repeal the Noxious Weed Control
Law and replace with the Controlled Plant and Noxious Weed Act (​House Fiscal Note​ and
summary). Signed into law as Act 46.
-- ​Performance-Based Budgeting:​ ​Senate Bill 181​ (Mensch-R-Montgomery) providing for a
performance-based budgeting (exempting appropriations to the General Assembly and the
Judiciary) and creating a Performance-Based Budget Board (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary).
Click Here​ for more.​ Signed into law as Act 48.
-- ​Natural Gas Gathering Pipelines: ​Senate Bill 242​ (Baker-R-Luzerne) adding unconventional
and larger conventional natural gas gathering pipelines to the ​PA One Call​ utility safety program
is a major win (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary). ​Click Here​ for more. S​ igned into law as Act
50.
-- Storage Tanks:​ ​House Bill 290​ (Metzgar-R-Bedford) providing for legislative appointments
to the Underground Storage Tank Indemnification Board, fills a gap in funding for DEP’s
Storage Tank Program and extends the sunset date for the environmental cleanup programs for
storage tanks (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary). Signed into law as Act 61.
-- ​Water Authorities Under PUC:​ ​House Bill 1490​ (Turzai-R-Allegheny) placing the

22
Pittsburgh Water and Sewer Authority under the regulation of the Public Utility Commission
(​House Fiscal Note​ and summary) .​Click Here​ for more.​ Signed into law as Act 65.
-- Banning Plastic Bag Bans:​ ​House Bill 1071​ (Farry-R-Bucks) to prevent the imposition of a
ban, fee or surcharge on recyclable plastic bags (​House Fiscal Note​ and summary). This bill was
vetoed by Gov. Wolf as Veto No. 1.
-- ​Lead Exposure Task Force: ​Senate Resolution 33​ (Yudichak-D-Luzerne) was passed by the
Senate creating a bipartisan task force to investigate the scope of Pennsylvania’s lead exposure
problem, including in drinking water (​sponsor summary​). ​Click Here​ for more.​ Adopted June 6,
2017.
(​Photo:​ ​2014 Pittsburgh Solar Tour Guidebook​, 7211 Thomas Blvd, Pittsburgh.)
Related Stories:
Be Inspired! Stories About Hundreds Of Great PA Environmental Stewards In 2018
WHERE WE WANT TO BE: Growing A Cleaner, Greener Pennsylvania In 2019: Opportunities
For House And Senate Leadership
WHERE WE ARE: Guide To Legislation Likely To Be Reintroduced In The House, Senate In
2019
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

PA Supreme Court Overturns Decision Allowing Drillers To Avoid Act 13 Impact Fees

On December 28, the PA Supreme Court ​issued an opinion overturning​ a Commonwealth Court
decision in March that would have allowed gas drillers to avoid the Act 13 drilling impact fee if
vertical unconventional gas wells are classified as a “stripper well” which are incapable of
producing natural gas above certain production thresholds per day in any calendar month.
The decision was initially ​reported by the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette​.
The Public Utility Commission, ​which appealed the earlier decision,​ said if the ruling
was not overturned, Act 13 drilling impact fee revenue would be reduced by at least 10 percent
annually.
The Court decision dealt with a provision in Act 13 that provided an exemption from the
impact fee for so-called “stripper wells.” The challenge was brought by the ​PA Independent Oil
and Gas Association​, among others, which represents conventional oil and gas drillers.
The dispute was over whether an impact fee will be assessed whenever a vertical well’s
production exceeds an average of 90,000 cubic feet of natural gas per day for even one month of
the year, or whether the well must exceed this production threshold in every month of the year
for the fee to be imposed, as the challengers contend.
The PUC consistently held that a well is not a stripper well and is subject to the impact
fee if it exceeds the minimum production levels in one calendar month in a year, but
Commonwealth Court held otherwise saying wells had to pay the impact fee only if a well
exceeds the minimum production levels in every month in a year.
The Commission’s interpretation is based on examination of prior legislative versions of
Act 13 which explicitly required production levels be met in every month of a year for the
impact fee to apply, the purpose of Act 13 to provide relief to municipalities affected by drilling
and other provisions in Act 13 which clarify the impact fee applies if a well meets specified
production levels in one month in a year.
“The [Commonwealth] Court’s interpretation may lead to unreasonable results,” said

23
PUC Chairman Gladys Brown. “For instance, if well “A” produces 100,000 [cubic feet] per
day/month for 12 months, it pays the fee. If well “B” produces 200,000 [cubic feet] per
day/month for 11 months, falling short in one month, it does not pay the fee.”
This unreasonable result, said Brown, was noted by the dissenting Commonwealth Court
opinion in Snyder Bros which said the General Assembly does not intend a result that is absurd,
impossible of execution, or unreasonable.
The PA Supreme Court agreed with the PUC’s analysis of the issue, including relying on
prior versions of the bill that became Act 13.
The importance of the purpose of the impact fee was underscored in the PA Supreme
Court decision which quoted floor remarks by then Rep. Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) at the time
Act 13 was passed by the House which said, in part, “The impact fee we are addressing is
designed to provide for infrastructure improvements based upon direct impacts, which have
created a strain throughout the State, and to provide services that are vital to the health, welfare,
and safety of each and every Pennsylvania citizen.”
The PA Supreme Court concluded, “we hold that, under Act 13, an unconventional
vertical well is a “vertical gas well” subject to assessment of an impact fee for a calendar year
whenever that well’s natural gas production exceeds 90,000 cubic feet per day in at least one
calendar month of that year. Because it is undisputed that the wells at issue in this case met this
criteria, we reverse the order of the Commonwealth Court which set aside the PUC’s assessment
to SBI of impact fees for the 2011 and 2012 reporting years.”
Click Here​ for a copy of the PA Supreme Court opinion.
NewsClip:
PA Supreme Court Reinstates Impact Fees On Armstrong County-Based Shale Gas Driller
Related Story​:
PUC Intends To Appeal Court Ruling Jeopardizing Act 13 Drilling Impact Fee Collections
[Posted: Dec. 29, 2018]

PA’s Most Penalized, Controversial Natural Gas Pipeline Now In Service- Mariner East 2

Late Saturday evening (December 29), Energy


Transfer LP (Sunoco) announced its Mariner East
2 natural gas liquids (NGLs) pipeline is in service,
available for both interstate and intrastate service.
The 350-mile NGL pipeline transports
domestically produced ethane, propane and butane
east from processing plants in Ohio across West
Virginia and Pennsylvania to Energy Transfer’s
Marcus Hook Industrial Complex in Delaware
County, PA, where the NGLs are stored for distribution to local, domestic and waterborne
markets.
Mariner East 2 is part of Energy Transfer’s Mariner East system of pipelines designed to
provide much-needed NGL takeaway capacity for the Marcellus and Utica Shale production
areas in Eastern Ohio, West Virginia and Western Pennsylvania.
The Mariner East 2X pipeline, which parallels Mariner East 2, is expected to be in
service in late 2019.

24
The Mariner East system will provide both operational flexibility and enhanced security
of NGL supply from producing areas to key markets in the region and beyond.
Troubled History
DEP has taken high-profile enforcement actions against the Mariner East 2 Pipeline,
including collecting a ​record $12.6 million penalty​ for water quality and other violations and
completely shutting down construction at one point.
The PUC has also taken a number of other ​actions against the Mariner East Pipelines​ on
construction and safety issues during 2018, including most recently a ​proposed $225,000 penalty
for an ethane/propane leak from Marine East 1.
A ​complaint filed with the Public Utility Commission by Sen. Andy Dinniman
(D-Chester) on construction and safety issues surrounding the Mariner East 2 Pipeline resulted in
a temporary order ceasing construction, but the bulk of the case is still making its way through
the Administrative Law Judge process.
The Mariner East 2 Pipeline was the subject of a ​Senate hearing in March​ pointed to the
need to hold pipeline companies accountable for impacts, providing for the safety of nearby
residents and for better regulation of the routes taken by pipelines.
At a ​Senate Committee meeting​ in June, Sen. Don White (R-Indiana) took the highly
unusual step of singling out one pipeline company by name. He said if the issues raised at the
Senate hearing are only about one company [Sunoco Mariner East Pipelines] “we should be able
to deal with that company and put them out of business.”
A ​House hearing in July​ saw both the head of DEP and the vice-chair of the Public
Utility Commission say there needs to be a “serious conversation” about how Pennsylvania can
have a meaningful role in siting pipelines in the state.
Earlier in December, the District Attorney in Chester County announced he was opening
a ​criminal investigation into Mariner East Pipelines construction practices​.
In September, another ​Energy Transfer LP natural gas pipeline exploded​ in Beaver
County.
The PUC’s investigation of the Beaver County explosion is still active and ongoing.
DEP inspections in November found ​unreported landslides on the right-of-way​ and other issues.
NewsClips:
Mariner East 2 Pipeline Is Up And Running Sunoco Says
AP: Energy Transfer Announces Mariner East 2 Pipeline Is In Service
Controversial Mariner East 2 Pipeline Now In Service
[Posted: Dec. 30, 2018]

PA Farm Show: Inspiring Pennsylvania's Story Jan. 5-12 In Harrisburg

The ​103rd Pennsylvania Farm Show​, running


from January 5-12 in Harrisburg, will honor
agriculture’s rich heritage and promising future
with this year’s theme, Inspiring Pennsylvania’s
Story.
The theme, which will be represented throughout
of the weeklong event, will include related
events like a daily story time for children,

25
interviews with real Pennsylvanians working in agriculture, and opportunities for attendees to
engage and tell their own stories.
“The agriculture industry and the people within it have a powerful story that has impacted
our lives for centuries; it’s a story of passion, a story of conviction, a story of purpose and
meaning, a story of hope,” said Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding. “It is a story that is
constantly evolving with new pages being written all the time. It’s our job to keep telling that
story--to help shape the future of an industry that powers, provides for, and inspires
Pennsylvania—and that is precisely what we intend to do during the 103rd show.”
“Each year, the Pennsylvania Farm Show uses a theme to communicate our vision for the
future of agriculture, and this year’s theme speaks to the importance of using our voices to
champion our industry, to be the storytellers expressing our mission and our purpose,” said
Pennsylvania Farm Show Executive Director Sharon Altland. “I encourage Pennsylvanians from
across the commonwealth to come to Harrisburg this January, tell their stories, and celebrate our
shared sense of community at the 103rd annual Farm Show.
Agency Displays
Lots of state agencies have displays at the Farm Show, including--
-- Dept. of Environmental Protection (Main Hall)
-- Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources (Main Hall)
-- Fish & Boat Commission (Main Hall)
-- Game Commission (Main Hall)
Click Here​ to check the schedule of activities. ​Click Here​ for the full visitor’s guide.
The ​Pennsylvania Farm Show​ is the nation’s largest indoor agricultural event, featuring
12,000 competitive exhibits, more than 5,200 of which are animal competitions, plus 300
commercial exhibitors.
The show runs January 5 – 12. Admission is free and parking is $15 in Farm Show lots.
NewsClips:
No Duckling Slide At Farm Show, PennAg Industries Group Not Providing Staff
Stewardship Event In Juniata County Emphasizes Value Of Conservation Practices, Partnerships
Agriculture Awards Grants For Spotted Lanternfly, Farm Conservation Research
Agriculture Announces $450,000 In Grants For Spotted Lanternfly Research
Graybills Ponder Farm’s Future After Eminent Domain Battle With Manheim School District
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

Senate/House Co-Sponsor Memos/Session Schedule/Gov’s Schedule

House and Senate Co-Sponsorship Memos

House: ​Click Here​ for all new co-sponsorship memos

Senate: ​Click Here​ for all new co-sponsorship memos

Session Schedule

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

26
Senate
January 1, 15, 16, 28, 29, 30
February 4, 5, 6
Budget Hearings: Feb. 19, 20, 21, 25, 26, 27, 28, March 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
March 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27
April 8, 9, 10, 29, 30
May 1, 6, 7, 8
June 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28

House
January 1, 15, 16, 28, 29, 30
February 4, 5, 6, 19, 20, 21
Budget Hearings: Feb. 11 March 7
March 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27
April 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 29, 30
May 1, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 22, 23
June 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28

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.

The Feds

Updated: Feds Reverse Course, Will Now Sell New, Renewals Of National Flood Insurance
Policies During Govt. Shutdown

On December 28, state Insurance Commissioner


Jessica Altman alerted consumers the Federal
Emergency Management Agency has limited the
ability of the ​National Flood Insurance Program​ to
issue new and renewal flood insurance policies due
to the federal government partial shutdown.
UPDATE:​ ​FEMA announced it has reversed
its decision​ and will now sell new and renewed
National Flood Insurance Policies after pressure by
states, realtors and property owners.
Background
FEMA had previously announces policies that were in force before midnight on Dec. 21,
2018 remain in force, but that it would not sell new policies or renew existing policies.
The NFIP will process and pay claims under those policies as usual from the National
Flood Insurance Fund and the National Flood Insurance Reserve Fund until depleting these
funds, but will not have authority to borrow any additional funds from the U.S. Treasury.
27
Existing flood insurance policies remain valid regardless of FEMA’s capacity to pay
claims.
Homeowners who live in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) with federal-government
backed mortgages, and most other mortgages, are required by their lenders to have flood
coverage.
“Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Purchasing flood
insurance is required for some property owners and may be a wise investment for anyone
regardless of their property location, and so the government shutdown could impact consumers
who are in the process of closing on a home or property,” Altman said. “I advise realtors and
consumers alike to be aware of the latest developments regarding the government shutdown and
its impact on the NFIP.”
The NFIP provides flood insurance to homeowners, renters and businesses located in a
flood zone, but flood insurance is also available to any property owner or renter, regardless of
their location, through private insurers, including surplus lines insurers.
The government shutdown has no impact private flood insurance policies.
For more information on flood insurance, visit the Insurance Department’s ​Flood
Insurance​ webpage.
NewsClips:
FEMA Now Says It Will Sell New, Renewed National Flood Insurance Policies
Flooding Prompts Inspection Of Stormwater Control System In Westmoreland
Washington Blvd Floodgates to Be Functions By January In Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Parking Garage That Redirects Stormwater, Welcomes Bikes
Climate Change Affecting Northeast PA
2018 One Of Wettest Years On Record In Lehigh Valley
Harrisburg Breaks 76 Year Daily Rainfall Record For Dec. 28
Trump Signs National Flood Insurance Program Extension Bill
Cost Of Natural Disasters This Year Worldwide: $155 Billion
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

NRCS-PA Remains Open For Business During Partial Federal Government Shutdown

On December 28, the ​Natural Resources


Conservation Service-PA​ announced it remains
open for business during the partial federal
government shutdown.
During a government shutdown, agencies that
receive mandatory funding or have funds
appropriated in prior years that are carried
forward can continue to serve customers using
that money.
NRCS is in this category and continues to be
open for business. If you have business with
NRCS or want to begin working with NRCS, their offices will be open.
For information on local offices or any services NRCS provides to farm and forest land
owners, visit the ​Natural Resources Conservation Service-PA​ webpage.

28
NewsClips:
Stewardship Event In Juniata County Emphasizes Value Of Conservation Practices, Partnerships
Agriculture Awards Grants For Spotted Lanternfly, Farm Conservation Research
Agriculture Announces $450,000 In Grants For Spotted Lanternfly Research
No Duckling Slide At Farm Show, PennAg Industries Group Not Providing Staff
Graybills Ponder Farm’s Future After Eminent Domain Battle With Manheim School District
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

News From Around The State

Westminster College Student Symposium On The Environment A Success, Attracts 73


College, High School Students

On December 6th, the annual ​Westminster College


Student Symposium on the Environment​ was held,
marking the 11th straight year the college has
hosted the event in Lawrence County.
The purpose of the student symposium is to provide
a venue for students to showcase their
environment-related research, projects, internships,
and artwork in a positive and friendly atmosphere.
The student symposium arose from the annual
Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition​ Symposium
which began in 1996 where students (mostly from
Slippery Rock University and Grove City College)
and professionals were able to interact and present their research on to the watershed restoration
activities of the SRWC.
After several years, students were given their very own event and the symposium was
expanded to include any environmental related topic.
After Dr. Helen Boylan and Westminster College began taking on the hosting and
organizing responsibilities of the symposium, it has grown to become a regional event.
This year’s symposium attracted approximately 73 students from eight colleges and
universities including Chatham University, Clarion University, Duquesne University, Geneva
College, Indiana University of Pennsylvania, Slippery Rock University, University of Pittsburgh
at Greensburg, and Westminster College.
There were also several high school students from Central Valley High School and
Greenville Senior High School.
There were 26 posters and 7 oral presentations that ranged from ecological studies to
microplastics to climate change; and of course what SRWC symposium would be complete
without AMD and passive treatment projects?!
The quality of the work is always impressive and the judges have a daunting challenge of
visiting and evaluating all of those posters! The following awards and honorable mentions were
earned:
Environmental Research Poster:
-- ​Hailey Tammaro​ won for “Influence of weather variables on timing of breeding in American
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kestrels.”
-- ​Rachel Dressler, Melanie Opyrchal, and Hannah McElrath​ received honorable mention for
“Allelopathic effects of hay scented fern (Dennstaedtia punctilobula) on pin oak germination and
growth.”
Environmental Project Poster:
-- ​Katarina Lewis​ won for “Stress and exposure to imidacloprid- a neonicotinoid pesticide,
affect host selection in Nasonia vitripennis.”
-- ​Lauren McNany and Courtney Kinkead​ received honorable mention for “Dewater
Efficiency at the New Wilmington Wastewater Treatment Plant”
High School Presentation:
-- ​Brian Ross and Trey Wilt​ won for “Acorn Parasite Preference.”
-- The ​Environmental Science AP Class from Central Valley High School​ in Beaver County
received honorable mention for “A systems Approach to Implementing a Water-Bottle Recycling
Program through Education, Regulation, and Enforcement.”
Oral Presentation:
-- ​Tia Kowalo, Andrew Kearney, Justin Anuszek, and Matthew Balczon​ for “Investigating
microplastics in macroinvertebrates collected from the Little Neshannock Creek, using clean air
processing techniques.”
-- ​Elizabeth Cochran​ received honorable mention for “Effects of constructed wetlands on heavy
metal removal in abandoned mine drainage remediation.”
Congratulations to all the students for a job well done! It has been another successful
symposium and we look forward to next year’s event, which will take place at ​Westminster
College on December 5th, 2019,​ so save the date!
We would like to see even greater participation from more schools!
Click Here​ for photos of all 2018 winners. ​ Click Here​ to search for abstracts presented at
the Symposium.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the ​Slippery
Rock Watershed Coalition​ website.
(​Photo:​ Students from the Environmental Science Advanced Placement Class from Central
Valley High School in Beaver County discussed their efforts to reduce single-use plastic bottles
by encouraging students to buy refillable water bottles. Sales of the water bottles will be used to
purchase water filling stations. They also instituted a recycling program to get students to
recycle bottles instead of throwing them in the garbage.)

(Reprinted from the ​January issue of The Catalyst​ newsletter form the Slippery Rock Watershed
Coalition. ​Click Here ​to sign up for your own copy.)
NewsClips:
No Duckling Slide At Farm Show, PennAg Industries Group Not Providing Staff
Hopey: New Camera Installed To Spy On Hays Bald Eagles In Pittsburgh
Pocono Environmental Ed Center: To Hibernate, Perchance To Dream
STEAM Academy Charter School Seeks Harrisburg District Approval
January Catalyst Newsletter Now Available From Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition
[Posted: Dec. 26, 2018]

Stewardship Event In Juniata County Emphasizes Value Of Farm Conservation Practices,

30
Partnerships

By B.J. Small, ​Chesapeake Bay Foundation-PA

Visitors on hay wagons rode through rolling


hills of corn, cover crops, and contour strips
under a blazing sun in Juniata County, to get
a closer look and to learn about conservation
efforts through farmers' eyes.
The collective power of partnerships was
also front and center in the exchange of ideas
among the 75 farmers, and local, state and
federal folks who were there.
David and Marie Graybill hosted the farm
stewardship event at Red Sunset Farm, a
400-acre dairy operation in Mifflintown, Juniata County. David took the opportunity to talk with
Congressman Tom Marino (R-PA-10th) about the value and importance of clean water practices
on the farm.
"We were honored to have Rep. Marino attend the event," said CBF's Pennsylvania
Executive Director Harry Campbell. "The importance of federal programs like the Farm Bill and
Chesapeake Bay Program in helping Pennsylvania farmers keep soils and nutrients on the land,
instead of in the water, can't be understated."
The partnership between the Graybills to properly manage the farm; the interest shown
by Congressman Marino; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the federal offices of
NRCS-PA​ (Natural Resources Conservation Service), down to the staff working at the local
level, and partnerships between conservation and agricultural communities was on display that
day.
Denise Coleman, state conservationist for the NRCS of the U.S. Department of
Agriculture, echoed the importance of partnerships.
"In the Bay region, since the last Farm Bill in 2008, NRCS has spent about $890 million
in financial assistance," Coleman said. "We don't have that happen without the Graybills and
other farmers who match that. That means the farm community is spending over $400 million of
their own money to put these practices in."
David Graybill was serving his second term on the state board of the Pennsylvania Farm
Bureau, representing Juniata, Mifflin, Perry, and Huntingdon counties.
The Graybills' dairy operation has 60 registered Holsteins and 70 replacement heifers.
They grow 100 acres of corn, 100 acres soybeans, 70 acres of hay and small grains, and 20 acres
of sunflowers. The property straddles the Schweyer Run and Lost Creek watersheds.
Among conservation practices in place on Red Sunset Farm and viewed by guests were
barnyard stormwater measures that direct rainwater away from animal exercise areas using
downspouts and gutters. Manure management practices include a stacking pad with a concrete
floor and three sides to control runoff.
A 700,000-gallon manure pit, receives manure from the gutters in the stanchion barn by
using a transfer pump located at one end of the barn.
For pasture management, clover seeding provides key retention of soil and nutrients.

31
Paddocks are in place to manage rotational grazing. The strategy for producing and protecting
crops and soil includes contour strips, cover crops, grass waterways, diversions, no-till practices,
and crop rotations.
"You have to control the good things in your environment," David Graybill added. "It's
about being good stewards of the land, within the economics of that stewardship."
For more on Chesapeake Bay-related issues in Pennsylvania, visit the ​Chesapeake Bay
Foundation-PA​ webpage. ​Click Here​ to sign up for Pennsylvania updates (bottom of left
column). ​Click Here​ to support their work.
(​Photo:​ Juniata County farmer David Graybill, center, talks with Congressman Tom Marino
(R-PA-10th), about clean water practices Graybill uses on the dairy farm during an event in
August 2017.)
NewsClips:
Agriculture Awards Grants For Spotted Lanternfly, Farm Conservation Research
Agriculture Announces $450,000 In Grants For Spotted Lanternfly Research
No Duckling Slide At Farm Show, PennAg Industries Group Not Providing Staff
Graybills Ponder Farm’s Future After Eminent Domain Battle With Manheim School District

(Reprinted from the ​Chesapeake Bay Foundation Blog​.)


[Posted: Dec. 26, 2018]

Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition Needs Volunteer Data Loggers In Butler County

Data Logger volunteers are needed in the Slippery


Rock and Boyers area of Butler County by the
Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition​.
If you’ve been wanting to volunteer to help improve
the watershed but haven’t been sure how to get
involved, this is an excellent opportunity to help in
an easy but very much needed and valuable way!
What exactly IS a Data Logger​, you may ask? Data
Loggers are compact, electronic devices with
internal microprocessors, storage, and data sensors.
They are used to monitor and record various
environmental parameters. These awesome instruments of science can be programmed to take
measurements of multiple water quality parameters (such as temperature and conductivity) set to
record information at regular intervals, for up to years at a time, unattended.
We are seeking volunteers interested in becoming “citizen scientists” who would
download the water quality data from the Data Loggers from time to time so it can be analyzed.
This information gives us an idea of the quantity of dissolved materials in the water to
help ascertain the functioning of passive treatment systems and alert us to any problems or
adjustments that may be needed.
Taking information from the Data Loggers is a short and simple process. An SRWC
volunteer will provide anyone interested in helping with a quick and easy training session. After
that, it’s just a matter of visiting the sites (on a bi-monthly or quarterly basis) where the Data
Loggers have been set up.

32
A technical background is not necessary to help with the Data Loggers, and we hope to
attract some new volunteers to help us out in this endeavor. Once trained, volunteers can collect
the water quality data at their convenience.
All that’s needed is the ability to walk/hike a bit outdoors and a desire to help. It’s a great
learning opportunity that would also look good on a resume! If you are interested, please contact
Shaun at 724-776-0161 or send email to: ​sri@streamrestorationinc.org​.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the ​Slippery
Rock Watershed Coalition​ website.
(​Photo:​ Kirk Brethauer and his daughter, Marina, download data from the data logger located
in Slippery Rock Creek.)

(Reprinted from the ​January issue of The Catalyst​ newsletter form the Slippery Rock Watershed
Coalition. ​Click Here ​to sign up for your own copy.)
[Posted: Dec. 26, 2018]

January Catalyst Newsletter Now Available From Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition

The ​January issue of The Catalyst​ newsletter is now


available from Butler County-based ​Slippery Rock
Watershed Coalition​ featuring articles on--
-- ​Westminster College Student Symposium On The
Environment A Success, Attracts 73 College, High
School Students
-- ​Moraine/McConnells Mill State Park Staff
Renewable Energy Presentation To 7th Graders
-- ​The KIDS Catalyst - Wintertime Maze
-- ​SRWC Needs Volunteer Data Loggers In Butler County
-- ​Click Here ​to sign up for your own copy.
The Catalyst newsletter is distributed to over 1,200 individuals in over a dozen countries
including: Brazil, Peru, South Korea, Mexico, England, Wales, Venezuela, South Africa, New
Zealand, Australia and Germany.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the ​Slippery
Rock Watershed Coalition​ website.
[Posted: Dec. 26, 2018]

DEP Awards $730,000 In Grants To Restore Streambanks, Stabilize Shorelines In


Philadelphia

On December 27, the Department of Environmental Protection announced two grants totaling
$730,000 to improve stream banks and stabilize shorelines in the City Of Philadelphia.
“Whether it’s a brand-new trail or a community favorite, improving and protecting the
banks along these routes is just as important as the trail itself” said DEP Secretary Patrick
McDonnell. “These grants embody the intersectionality of conservation and recreation and DEP
is honored to support such efforts.”
The $330,000 Growing Greener grant awarded to the ​Schuylkill River Development

33
Corporation​ is to be used for the installation of water quality improvement measures, such as
shore stabilization, stormwater management, and riparian buffer creation along the Schuylkill
Banks.
Friends of the Wissahickon​ will be using $400,000 in Growing Greener funds to restore
315 feet of streambank along the Lower Valley Green Run near the confluence with
Wissahickon Creek.
These restoration efforts include replacing eroded slopes and establishing five acres of
new riparian buffers.
The Growing Greener grant program is supported by the Environmental Stewardship
Fund, which receives its funding from landfill tipping fees and a transfer from the Marcellus
Shale Legacy Fund.
Click Here​ for more information on DEP’s Growing Greener Plus Grant Program.
Resources
For more information on buffers, financial and technical assistance available, visit
DCNR’s ​Forest Buffers​ webpage.
New DCNR Grant Round
To learn more about grant opportunities to support riparian buffer, trail and recreation
projects, visit DCNR’s ​Community Conservation Grant Program​ webpage. A new grant round is
opening January 22 and will close April 10.
Forest Buffer Summit
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Western PA Conservancy
will be hosting a ​Riparian Forest Buffer Summit​ on February 20-21 at the Best Western Premier
Conference Center, 800 East Park Drive in Harrisburg.
Related Stories:
McKean Conservation District Receives $400,000 DEP Grant For Streambank Fencing, Buffers
Bushkill Stream Conservancy Receives $80,000 Grant For Stream Restoration, Habitat
Improvement In Northampton County
[Posted: Dec. 27, 2018]

McKean Conservation District Receives $400,000 DEP Grant For Streambank Fencing,
Buffers

On December 28, the Department of Environmental Protection announced the award of a


$400,000 grant to the ​McKean County Conservation District​ to install tens of thousands of feet
of streambank fencing in farm fields.
“Streambank fencing is a great way to reduce erosion and prevent pollution from entering
our waterways,” said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell. “These projects will improve water
quality in several watersheds throughout McKean County.”
This 2019 Growing Greener grant will be used to install more than 22,500 feet of
streambank fencing, stabilize 8,000 feet of streambank in danger of erosion, and establish eight
acres of riparian buffers across ten farms in the county.
The Growing Greener grant program is supported by the Environmental Stewardship
Fund, which receives its funding from landfill tipping fees and a transfer from the Marcellus
Shale Legacy Fund.
Click Here​ for more information on DEP’s Growing Greener Plus Grant Program.

34
Resources
For more information on buffers, financial and technical assistance available, visit
DCNR’s ​Forest Buffers​ webpage.
New DCNR Grant Round
To learn more about grant opportunities to support riparian buffer, trail and recreation
projects, visit DCNR’s ​Community Conservation Grant Program​ webpage. A new grant round is
opening January 22 and will close April 10.
Forest Buffer Summit
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Western PA Conservancy
will be hosting a ​Riparian Forest Buffer Summit​ on February 20-21 at the Best Western Premier
Conference Center, 800 East Park Drive in Harrisburg.
Related Stories:
DEP Awards $730,000 In Grants To Restore Streambanks, Stabilize Shorelines In Philadelphia
Bushkill Stream Conservancy Receives $80,000 Grant For Stream Restoration, Habitat
Improvement In Northampton County
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

Bushkill Stream Conservancy Receives $80,000 Grant For Stream Restoration, Habitat
Improvement In Northampton County

On December 28, the Department of Environmental Protection announced the award of a


$80,000 grant to the ​Bushkill Stream Conservancy​ for a stream restoration and habitat
improvement project in the Borough of Tatamy and Palmer Township, Northampton County.
The watershed group will use the funds to install structures in Bushkill Creek to create a
better habitat for aquatic life.
The money will also be used to install riparian buffers that will stabilize 1.5 miles of
stream bank through the Borough of Tatamy. Once those buffers are installed, more than 6,500
feet of the stream will be restored allowing for better water flow.
“This work will help improve a stream that provides valuable outdoor opportunities for
people who enjoy fishing or just watching Bushkill Creek flow,” said DEP Secretary Patrick
McDonnell. “The health of the creek is vital to the community.”
Bushkill Creek, although designated as a “high-quality” cold water stream, is classified as
“impaired” in this section of the borough for pathogens, which allows for special protections.
The improved habitat from the project will help protect aquatic life from possible exposure to
pathogens.
The Growing Greener grant program is supported by the Environmental Stewardship
Fund, which receives its funding from landfill tipping fees and a transfer from the Marcellus
Shale Legacy Fund.
Click Here​ for more information on DEP’s Growing Greener Plus Grant Program.
Resources
For more information on buffers, financial and technical assistance available, visit
DCNR’s ​Forest Buffers​ webpage.
New DCNR Grant Round
To learn more about grant opportunities to support riparian buffer, trail and recreation
projects, visit DCNR’s ​Community Conservation Grant Program​ webpage. A new grant round is

35
opening January 22 and will close April 10.
Forest Buffer Summit
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and Western PA Conservancy
will be hosting a ​Riparian Forest Buffer Summit​ on February 20-21 at the Best Western Premier
Conference Center, 800 East Park Drive in Harrisburg.
NewsClip:
State To Kick In Money To Help Restore Part Of Bushkill Creek That Lost Flow
Related Stories:
DEP Awards $730,000 In Grants To Restore Streambanks, Stabilize Shorelines In Philadelphia
McKean Conservation District Receives $400,000 DEP Grant For Streambank Fencing, Buffers
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

Deadline For Submitting 2019 Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations Annual Reports
Now Feb. 15

The Department of Environmental Protection ​published notice ​in the December 29 PA Bulletin
extending the deadline for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations under General Permit
PAG-12 to submit annual reports to February 15, 2019.
This notice only affects CAFO annual reports due in 2019. The previous deadline was
January 1.
For more information on this program, visit DEP’s ​Concentrated Animal Feeding
Operations​ webpage.
NewsClips:
Stewardship Event In Juniata County Emphasizes Value Of Conservation Practices, Partnerships
Agriculture Awards Grants For Spotted Lanternfly, Farm Conservation Research
Agriculture Announces $450,000 In Grants For Spotted Lanternfly Research
No Duckling Slide At Farm Show, PennAg Industries Group Not Providing Staff
Graybills Ponder Farm’s Future After Eminent Domain Battle With Manheim School District
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

Agriculture Awards Grants For Spotted Lanternfly, Farm Conservation Research

On December 21, the Department of Agriculture award


$1.286 million in grants to 15 Pennsylvania universities
and research organizations to advance Pennsylvania’s
agriculture and food industry.
The grants include support for spotted lanternfly and farm
conservation research--
Farm Conservation - $273,000
-- ​Penn State University​: 2019-2020 Pennsylvania farm
conservation practices inventory: documenting and
reporting practices to the Chesapeake Bay Program ─
$140,000
-- ​PA Association for Sustainable Agriculture​:
Connecting soil health and best management practices

36
with on-farm citizen science ─ $60,000
-- ​American Mushroom Institute​: Beneficial uses of mushroom compost ─ $30,000
-- ​The U School​: Vermicomposting of urban mushroom farm bi-products at the U School ─
$3,500
-- ​Grow Pittsburgh​: Testing Risks from roadway contamination in urban settings and the
effectiveness of vegetated barriers ─ $3,000
-- ​Grow Pittsburgh​: Testing Risks from roadway contamination in urban settings and the
effectiveness of vegetated barriers ─ $3,000
-- ​Rodale Institute​: Evaluating organic nutrient management practices to improve industrial
hemp yield and quality ─ $20,000
-- ​University of Pennsylvania​: Analysis of the economic impact of Pennsylvania's Farmland
Preservation Program ─ $13,500
Lanternfly/Bees/Butterflies - $480,000
-- ​Penn State University​: Evaluating the impacts of Spotted Lanternfly on grapevine health to
develop more targeted control approaches ─ $100,000
-- ​Penn State University​: Host tree preference and fitness of Spotted Lanternfly among common
woody ornamentals: implications for host tree health ─ $90,000
-- ​Penn State University:​ Exploring factors affecting survival of Spotted Lanternfly during the
dormant and spring period ─ $67,000
-- ​Temple University​: Furthering computational approaches for modeling, predicting and
controlling Spotted Lanternfly invasion and its economic impact ─ $75,000
-- ​Delaware Valley University​: Efficacy of various light traps to monitor presence of Spotted
Lanternfly ─ $6,000
-- ​Penn State University​: Continuing research on Phorid Fly, establishing monitoring system for
Spotted Lanternfly, and raising awareness of integrated pest management & organic solutions for
Pennsylvania's mushroom farms ─ $22,000
-- ​Penn State University​: Protecting bees from fungicides applied to tree fruits and from
insecticides used to control Spotted Lanternfly ─ $90,000
-- ​Western PA Conservancy​: Surveys to support the assessment and conservation of at-risk
butterflies ─ $30,000
“Agriculture cannot grow as an industry without investing in research and development
to stay on top of trends and tackle issues like diseases and pests,” said Secretary Russell
Redding. “Supporting cutting-edge research is an investment that puts Pennsylvania agriculture
in a better position to generate more income for our producers, create new jobs, and feed a
growing world population.”
Click Here​ for a list of all grants awarded.
NewsClip:
Insects Slipping Into U.S. Causing Billions Of Dollars In Damage
Related Story:
Agriculture Announced $1.3M In Ag Research Grants, Including On Nutrient Reductions,
Spotted Lanternfly
[Posted: Dec. 26, 2018]

Register Now! Pennsylvania Sustainable Agriculture Conference Feb. 6-9 In Lancaster

37
The ​PA Association For Sustainable Agriculture​ will host the ​28th Pennsylvania Sustainable
Agriculture Conference​ at the ​Lancaster County Convention Center​, Lancaster on February 6-9.
Each February, thousands of farmers, homesteaders, educators, and other food system
professionals gather for four days of intensive learning on more than 120 food and farming
topics.
No matter your experience level or agricultural interests, you’ll be able to pack your
schedule with valuable sessions that help hone your craft or advance your career. The
Conference additionally features networking and social events, programming for kids, and an
expansive trade show that includes more than 100 vendors.
People passionate about sustainable agriculture and healthy food systems from more than
30 states and six countries have gathered at our hallmark event since 1992, leaving inspired and
energized for the season to come.
Keynote speakers for the 2019 Conference will include--
-- ​Michael P. Hoffman​: Climate Change & Our Global Food System: A Call To Action
-- ​Leah Lizarondo​: Waste Not: The Moral Disconnect Between Food Waste & Hunger
-- ​Michael Rozyne​: An Unlikely Collaboration: Who Can I Trust?
Click Here​ to register, book rooms and for more information.
More information on programs, initiatives, other upcoming events and education
opportunities is available at the ​PA Association For Sustainable Agriculture​ website.
NewsClips:
Stewardship Event In Juniata County Emphasizes Value Of Conservation Practices, Partnerships
Agriculture Awards Grants For Spotted Lanternfly, Farm Conservation Research
Agriculture Announces $450,000 In Grants For Spotted Lanternfly Research
No Duckling Slide At Farm Show, PennAg Industries Group Not Providing Staff
Graybills Ponder Farm’s Future After Eminent Domain Battle With Manheim School District
[Posted: Dec. 27, 2018]

Northeast Recycling Council Holds Spring Conference In Wilmington, DE March 20-21

The ​Northeast Recycling Council​ will


hold its ​Spring Conference​ in
Wilmington, Delaware March 20-21
with the theme closing the recycling
loop and building demand for mixed
paper, mixed plastics, and glass.
Michael Hoffman​, Financial Analyst
of ​Stifel​, will deliver the keynote
address. Mr. Hoffman will present an assessment of the impact of the domestic and global
economy on recycling commodities in the near and distant future.
The Conference will continue with ​Jordan Tony​, Sustainability Consultant with ​More
Recycling​, who will talk about recycled plastic resins that US-based manufacturers are using and
the products they manufacture with them.
Mr. Tony will be followed by two additional industry experts who will present on how
manufacturers are using recycled paper and cullet.
Three additional sessions will focus on how industry sectors are addressing

38
post-consumer recycled content (PCR) in their products--
-- ​Liz Bedard of the Association of Plastics Recyclers​ will talk about the importance of
recognizing manufacturers that are proactive about using PCR materials.
-- ​Brian Hawkinson, Executive Director of Recovered Fiber, AF&PA​ will speak about their
perspective on the paper industry’s use of PCR.
-- ​Will Sagar, Executive Director of SERDC​ will talk about the economics of the glass
recycling industry and the potential for demand-driven initiatives.
-- ​Herb Northrup​,​ Chief Operating Officer of Aero Aggregates​ will speak about the decision
of their company to base its business model on the use of cullet.
A session about government strategies that have affected the use of PCR in the U.S. will
follow. ​Garth Hickle​, an independent consultant and one of the session presenters, will speak
about the impact of Extended Producer Responsibility on building demand for post-consumer
recycled materials.
To register or for more information, visit the ​Northeast Recycling Council Spring
Conference​ webpage.
NewsClips:
Pittsburgh Residents Can Recycle TVs, E-Waste, Household Chemicals, For A Fee
Erie Residents Face New Recycling Rules
What You Can Recycle During The Holidays In Erie County
Christmas Recycling Programs Offered In Blair County
EPA Recognizes Pitt For Efforts To Reduce Food Waste
Latrobe Eyes 26% Hike In Garbage Collection Fees
A New Chinese Policy Forces People To Ask: Is There A Better Way To Recycle?
[Posted: Dec. 26, 2018]

DEP: Jan. 30 Hearing On Specialty Granules Water Quality Mining Permit In Adams
County

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the December 29 PA Bulletin


(​page 7986​) it will hold a hearing January 30 on the NPDES Water Quality permit for
discharges from a mining operation into Toms Creek by ​Specialty Granules, LLC​, Waynesboro
Road, Blue Ridge Summit in Adams County.
The purpose of the public hearing is to discuss the mining permit application and
associated NPDES permit. Toms Creek is classified High Quality, Cold Water Fishes and
Migratory Fishes.
The hearing will address topics identified by the public in previous comments including
the following: Social or Economic Justification submitted by the applicant to justify lower water
quality discharges, naturally occurring asbestos, historically significant features and any other
aspects of the permit application.
The hearing will be held at the ​Fairfield Fire and EMS Building​, 106 Steelman Street in
Fairfield starting at 6:00 with an open house to answer questions about the application.
A copy of the permit application is on file for public review at the ​Adams County
Conservation District​, 670 Old Harrisburg Road, Suite 201, Gettysburg, PA 17325 and at the
Department of Environmental Protection, Ebensburg District Office, 286 Industrial Park Road,
Ebensburg, PA 15931-4119.

39
Questions should be direct to DEP’s Ebensburg District Office by calling 814-472-1900.
Read the entire PA Bulletin notice for all the details (​page 7986​).
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

PUC Reminds Stakeholders Nominations For PA One Call Damage Prevention Committee
Due Jan. 18

On December 28, the Public Utility Commission


reminded stakeholders and concerned citizens
across the state that it is currently accepting
nominations for individuals to serve on the PUC’s
Damage Prevention Committee​-- a key element of
enhanced efforts to safeguard underground utilities
and pipelines.
The PUC will accept nominations until January 18
for DPC representatives from each of the following
industries:
-- ​Non-municipally owned or affiliated facility
owner industries​ – including telephone and cable television – nominated by facility owners or
affiliated organizations (two positions); and
-- ​Excavators ​– nominated by excavators or affiliated organizations (one position).
Click Here​ to download a nomination form and instructions.
Appointments to the DPC will begin in 2019, with each member serving a three-year
term. After the term is completed, members are required to reapply for DPC membership.
Creation of the committee was authorized by Act 50 of 2017 (Act 50), which enhances
Pennsylvania’s Underground Utility Line Protection Act – also known as the “​PA One Call
Law​.” Persons appointed to the DPC must have the appropriate level of expertise within the
operation of Act 50.
Modeled after successful programs in other states, the focus of the committee is a
reduction in the number of “hits” on underground utilities. The DPC meets regularly to review
alleged violations of the Act and make determinations as to the appropriate response including,
but not limited to, the issuance of warning letters or administrative penalties.
In accordance with Act 50, membership on the DPC includes: non-municipal owned or
affiliated facility owner industries, such as the electric, natural gas or petroleum pipelines,
telephone, water or wastewater and cable television industries; excavators; municipal
governments; and municipal authorities.
For more information, visit the PUC’s ​PA One Call Enforcement​ webpage.
NewsClips:
Hurdle: Spills, Shutdowns, Record Fines, Legal Challenges: A Tumultuous Year For Mariner
East 2 Pipeline
Sisk: Efficiencies, Pipelines Help Propel 2018 Natural Gas Production
FERC OKs Erie-To-Ohio Risberg Natural Gas Pipeline
State Permits Clear Way For New Pipeline To Beaver County Ethane Plant
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

40
Report Finds 18,500 Households Starting Winter Without Heat In PA, Down 4% From
Last Year

On December 27, the ​Public Utility Commission


released the results of its ​annual Cold Weather
Survey​ showed more than 18,500 households across
the state which had utility service terminated during
the calendar year are entering the winter season
without heat-related utility service or using unsafe
heating sources.
That figure is approximately 4 percent lower than last
year (754 fewer households starting the winter
without heat), and 16 percent lower (3,484 fewer
households) than the winter of 2016-- with
improvements noted by more than half of the state’s major electric and natural gas distribution
companies.
The annual Cold Weather Survey, along with the mid-winter resurvey, serves as a
“snapshot” to help gauge utility and PUC outreach about heating assistance programs. The
survey tracks the number of households whose heat-related utility service was terminated during
the year, and who remain without service at the start of the winter.
As a result of the direct contact that occurs between utilities and consumers during the
survey process, 38,335 households had their heat-related utility service reconnected with a
payment arrangement in 2018.
More extensive data about utility service--including terminations; reconnections; the
number of low-income and payment-troubled customers; and the size and scope of various
customer assistance programs-- is available in the PUC’s annual ​Universal Service Report​.
The 2018 Cold Weather Survey showed the following (as of Dec. 1):
-- 5,653 residences are without safe electric heating, including 5,454 households without electric
service and 199 households that are heating with potentially unsafe heating sources.
-- 12,888 residences are without safe natural gas heating, including 12,027 households without
natural gas service and 861 households that are heating with potentially unsafe heating sources.
-- 10,342 residences where electric service was terminated and 3,564 residences where natural
gas service was terminated now appear to be vacant.
Note: Some households may be without both electric and natural gas service, resulting in
a double-counting of some households.
The PUC remains concerned about the thousands of households who struggle to stay
warm and safe during the winter.
Residents experiencing financial difficulties are encouraged to contact their utilities
and/or the PUC for information about numerous programs available to help them restore and
maintain their utility service.
“With the coldest months of the year still ahead, it remains critically important for
consumers without heat-related utility service to learn about the options available to allow them
to reconnect service,” said PUC Chairman Gladys M. Brown. “We urge those residents to take
advantage of the numerous programs available to help them restore utility service in order to stay
connected, warm and safe this winter.”

41
According to the PUC’s most ​recent Universal Service Report​, those assistance programs
help support more than 302,000 electric customers and over 150,000 natural gas customers and
are valued at more than $385 million per year.
As part of the annual “​Prepare Now​” campaign, the Commission continues its ​appeal to
utilities to increase their efforts​ to educate consumers about resources that may be available, such
as grants under the federal ​Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program​ (LIHEAP)-- which is
administered by the Department of Human Services– with information available through local
County Assistance Offices or via the LIHEAP hotline at 1-866-857-7095.
The PUC emphasizes that consumers without utility service should understand their
rights and responsibilities, including additional options that may be available for those who are
seriously ill or are facing other unique circumstances, such as a protection from abuse order.
Consumers should call their utility first to make arrangements to pay their bill. If they are
unable to reach an agreement with the utility, the PUC may be able to provide assistance. The
PUC can be reached toll-free at 1-800-692-7380.
About The Survey
Every year, the state’s electric and natural gas distribution companies under the PUC’s
jurisdiction are required to survey residential properties where service has been terminated and
has not been reconnected during this calendar year.
Every December, the PUC releases the survey results.
As part of the survey, the utility or its representative makes four attempts to contact
consumers who are known to be without heat-related utility service. The attempts may include
telephone calls, letters and personal visits to the residence and are done on different days of the
week and at different times of the day.
If the first three contacts are unsuccessful, the PUC requests that the fourth attempt be an
in-person visit to the residence.
Homes using potentially unsafe heating sources are reported separately in the survey
because of additional risks in those situations.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, potentially unsafe sources of heat
include kerosene heaters, kitchen stoves or ovens, electric space heaters, fireplaces and
connecting extension cords to neighbors’ homes.
Click Here​ for a copy of the Cold Weather Survey results.
NewsClips:
Report: Thousands In PA Without Safe Winter Heating
Litvak: Duquesne Light v. Big-Name Customers, Electric Rate Case Ends In A Draw
EPA Proposes Rule To Rollback Pollution Limits On Coal Power Plants
[Posted: Dec. 27, 2018]

DEP Issues Water Quality Certification For National Fuel Gas Line N To Monaca Pipeline,
Beaver, Washington Counties

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice in the December 29 PA Bulletin


(​page 7984​) it has issued the Section 401 Water Quality Certification for Line N to Monaca
Natural Gas Pipeline in Beaver and Washington counties.
The project is a 4.5 mile long, 12-inch pipeline transporting natural gas from Line N to
the Shell Ethane Plant.

42
The pipeline route is in Center and Potter townships, Beaver County and Buffalo
Township, Washington County.
NewsClips:
Hurdle: Spills, Shutdowns, Record Fines, Legal Challenges: A Tumultuous Year For Mariner
East 2 Pipeline
Sisk: Efficiencies, Pipelines Help Propel 2018 Natural Gas Production
FERC OKs Erie-To-Ohio Risberg Natural Gas Pipeline
State Permits Clear Way For New Pipeline To Beaver County Ethane Plant
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

New Book Arms Policymakers, Lawyers, Private Sector With Tools To Combat Climate
Change In U.S.

In early 2019, Environmental Law Institute Press will release ​Legal


Pathways to Deep Decarbonization in the United States​, edited by
Michael B. Gerrard and ​John C. Dernbach​.
This “playbook” identifies well over 1,000 recommendation that
form legal pathways for reducing U.S. greenhouse gas emissions by
at least 80 percent from 1990 levels by 2050.
Out of the desire to get the main messages of that book delivered to
the broadest possible audience as quickly as possible, ELI Press is
releasing ​Legal Pathways to Deep Decarbonization in the United
States: Summary and Key Recommendations​. The book is
available now in e-book format and print.
The legal options identified in Legal Pathways involve federal, state,
and local law, as well as private governance. Chapter authors were
asked to include all options, even if they do not now seem politically realistic or likely, giving
the book not just immediate value, but also value over time.
“While a number of technologies and other methods are available to achieve radical
reductions in greenhouse gas emissions (most but not all involving energy efficiency, fuel
switching, and decarbonized electricity), there are numerous legal impediments to implementing
these technologies and methods at the necessary scale and speed,” explains Gerrard. “Both books
are aimed at identifying these impediments and devising ways to surmount them.”
Added Dernbach, “Our hope is that policymakers and lawyers can pursue the legal
pathways identified in these books, choosing the tool or tools that work best for their situation, to
allow clean technology and other methods to achieve their full potential.”
The Summary and Key Recommendations volume provides thumbnail summaries and the
most critical recommendations-- more than 500 of them-- from each of the 35 chapters of the
larger volume.
It also includes an index that organizes the key recommendations by actor (e.g., local
governments), allowing readers to see in one place all of the key recommendations for any
particular actor, regardless of the chapter in which they originated.
Both books are based on two reports by the Deep Decarbonization Pathways Project that
explain technical and policy pathways for dramatically reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
These aggressive carbon abatement goals are often referred to as deep decarbonization,

43
distinguished because it requires systemic changes to the energy economy.
While both the scale and complexity of deep decarbonization are enormous, both books
have the same simple message: deep decarbonization is achievable in the United States using
laws that exist or could be enacted.
These legal tools can be employed with significant economic, social, environmental, and
national security benefits.
Click Here​ for a table of contents and several chapters published as articles in the
Environmental Law Review.
Click Here​ for an article from the Energy Law Journal providing a description and
analysis of types of legal tools available for deep decarbonization drawn from the book.
For more about the book, visit the ELI ​Legal Pathways to Deep Decarbonization in the
United States​ webpage.
NewsClips:
Climate Change Affecting Northeast PA
2018 One Of Wettest Years On Record In Lehigh Valley
Release Of Natural Gas At Jessup Power Plant Rattles Midvalley Residents
New Book Arms Policymakers, Lawyers, Private Sector With Tools To Combat Climate Change
Action On Climate Change Divides Republicans In Congress
Young Activists Promote A Green New Deal In Congress On Climate
Cost Of Natural Disasters This Year Worldwide: $155 Billion
2018 First Year With No Violent Tornadoes In U.S.
Op-Ed: Oil & Gas Industry Should Walk Its Talk On Methane Pollution
Op-Ed: Why Is EPA Trying To Roll Back Methane Standards?
Trump Administration Continues To Undercut Its Own Climate Report
Related Story:
60+ Groups, Individuals Petition EQB To Set Up A Cap-And-Trade Program To Reduce PA
Greenhouse Gas Emissions
[Posted: Dec. 27, 2018]

Housing Finance Agency Housing Plan Funded By Drilling Impact Fees Out For Public
Review

The ​PA Housing Finance Agency​ published notice in the ​December 29 PA Bulletin​ inviting
comments on the PHARE Housing Plan supported in part with revenue from the Act 13 drilling
impact fees.
Click Here​ for a copy of the plan. Comments are due February 22. Questions should be
directed to Bryce Maretzki, Housing Finance Agency, by sending email to: ​bmaretzki@phfa.org​.
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

Appalachian Trail Museum Accepting Hall Of Fame Nominations Thru Jan. 31

The ​Appalachian Trail Museum Society


announced ​nominations for the Appalachian Trail
Hall of Fame Class of 2019​ will be accepted
through January 31.

44
The Hall of Fame​ recognizes those who have made a significant contribution toward
establishing and maintaining the approximately 2,190 mile footpath that passes through 14 states
from Maine to Georgia.
"The ninth class of the Appalachian Trail Hall of Fame will be inducted in 2019, and
nominations are open for Hall of Fame nominees," said Larry Luxenberg, president of the
Appalachian Trail Museum Society​ – the organization that oversees the Appalachian Trail Hall
of Fame. "Nominees should be people who have made a significant positive contribution to the
Appalachian Trail and who have unselfishly devoted their time, energy and resources toward
making the Appalachian Trail a national treasure."
36 individuals have been inducted into the ​Hall of Fame​ in the first eight years.
"These pioneers played critical roles in building, maintaining, protecting and publicizing
the Appalachian Trail", Luxenberg said.
Click Here​ for all the details.
For more information, visit the ​Appalachian Trail Museum​ website or visit in person at
1120 Pine Grove Road in Gardners, Adams County.
(​Photo:​ ​2018 Appalachian Trail Hall Of Fame Inductees:​ Bill Kemsley, Elizabeth Levers,
George Masa, Bob Peoples.)
[Posted: Dec. 27, 2018]

DCNR Hosts First Day Hikes At PA State Parks New Year's Day

To promote a healthy start to the new year,


Department of Conservation and Natural Resources
officials will be joining hikers at several parks
across the state as DCNR again sponsors free,
guided hikes in 29 state parks on New Year’s Day
as part of America's State Parks ​First Day Hikes
initiative​ in all 50 states.
“Our First Day Hikes help remind people
that our state parks and forests are open for healthy
outdoor adventures in all four seasons, including
winter,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Dunn said. “They
are a great way to make a resolution to enjoy nature and get more exercise, and keep it on the
first day of the year.”
The following Pennsylvania state park facilities are participating during daylight hours
January 1, 2019: Bald Eagle, Beltzville, Black Moshannon, Caledonia, Canoe Creek, Codorus,
Cowans Gap, Delaware Canal, French Creek, Gifford Pinchot, Greenwood Furnace, Hills Creek,
Keystone, Kinzua Bridge, Lehigh Gorge, Moraine, Nescopeck, Parker Dam, Pine Grove, Prince
Gallitzin, Pymatuning, Racoon Creek, Shawnee, Sinnemahoning state parks, and Jacobsburg,
Kings Gap, and Nolde Forest environmental education centers.
Click Here​ for a schedule from DCNR’s ​Calendar for Events​.
Presque Isle State Park and Jennings Environmental Education Center are offering New
Year’s Eve or “Last Night” hikes for those who wish to ring in the New Year mid-hike. These
easy hikes, spanning one to three miles, begin at 10:30 p.m. on December 31 and conclude
around 12:30 a.m. on January 1.

45
Pennsylvania State Park staff and volunteers lead the hikes, which are usually about one
or two miles, but can be longer depending on the park and its terrain.
“Last year, we hosted over 700 participants who hiked more than 1,793 miles in our state
parks across the Pennsylvania,” Dunn said. “Whether you’re staying close to home or traveling,
join us at one of Pennsylvania’s state parks on New Year’s Day!”
Organized by the ​National Association of State Park Directors​ to promote both healthy
lifestyles throughout the year and year-round recreation at state parks, all 50 states have
cooperatively sponsored First Day Hikes since 2012.
"America’s state parks provide havens for young and old alike to discover the tranquility
and beauty of nature through outdoor recreation,” National Association of State Park Directors
Executive Director, Lewis Ledford said. “Hiking offers inspiring ways to improve your physical
and mental health, while exploring beautiful public lands in every state.”
Hikers are invited to share their experience on social media using #FirstDayHikes.
Click Here​ for a schedule from DCNR’s ​Calendar for Events​.
For more information on state parks and forests and recreation in Pennsylvania, visit
DCNR’s website​, ​Click Here​ to sign up for the Resource newsletter, Visit the ​Good Natured
DCNR Blog,​ ​Click Here​ for upcoming events, ​Click Here​ to hook up with DCNR on other
social media-- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr.
(​Photo​: ​First Day Hikes 2015.​ Tuscarora State Forest, Perry County)
NewsClips:
Ohiopyle River Guides Recognized By Carnegie Hero Fund Commission
DCNR Hosts First Day Hikes At PA State Parks New Year’s Day
Demko: First Day Hikes Growing In Popularity Across Lehigh Valley
Schneck: Best First Day Hikes To Greet The New Year
DEP Awards $730,000 In Grants To Restore Streambanks, Stabilize Shorelines In Philly
Dec. 28 Take Five Fridays With Pam, PA Parks & Forests Foundation
Karl Stirner Arts Trail To Buy Easton Iron & Metal Co. For Expansion
Crable: Cocalico Creek Bridge Completion Will Allow Full Opening Of Ephrata Rail Trail
Lackawanna River Trail Organization Plans New Section In Dickson City
Gnome Homes In Community Park Reduced To Sticks By Vandals
Editorial: Don’t Give Up On Bike-Sharing Yet In Lancaster
Appalachian Trail Museum Accepting Hall Of Fame Nominations Thru Jan. 31
Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area Open During Govt. Shutdown
Gettysburg National Military Park Closed During Shutdown
Government Shutdown Affects Flight 93 Memorial, Fort Necessity
Some National Parks Stay Open During Shutdown, Confusion Reigns
Ex-Lobbyist Who Carries Card to Remind Him Of All His Conflicts Is Favorite To Replace
Zinke
[Posted: Dec. 27, 2018]

Michael Klimkos: Waters Of The Valley: 50 Years Of Trout Unlimited In The


Cumberland Valley

The ​Cumberland Valley Trout Unlimited Chapter​ is celebrating its


50th Anniversary and as part of the celebration a new book has just

46
been published on its history in Central Pennsylvania.
Waters of the Valley: 50 Years of Trout Unlimited in the Cumberland Valley​ by
Michael Klimkos is a richly detailed book covering the story of how Trout Unlimited came to the
Cumberland Valley of Pennsylvania, the efforts the chapters (yes - 2 chapters) made to protect
the waters and some of the fun along the way.
And it is much more than that. The book delves into history of the Valley as well and
answers some questions that you may have wondered about:
-- How did the Yellow Breeches Creek get its name?
-- Which came first, brown trout or rainbow trout?
-- What did a rubber pipe in the Letort have to do with clean water?
-- Who wanted to dynamite the Letort - and why?
The book was written by long-time CVTU member, ​Michael Klimkos​, the author of ​A
History of Trout Unlimited and the Environmental Movement in Pennsylvania;​ ​ ​The Letort: A
Limestone Legacy;​ and ​The Fires of Penn's Woods​.
The book is currently available ​online through Amazon​ and it will be available in the
next few weeks at ​Precision Tackle​ in Mt. Holly Springs. ​Click Here​ to watch for an
announcement of a book signing event at Precision.
For more information on programs, initiatives and upcoming events, visit the
Cumberland Valley Trout Unlimited Chapter​ website.
NewsClip:
Moyer: Culverts Passing Water Under Roads May Be Blocking Passage Of Fish
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

Help Wanted: Willistown Conservation Trust Director Of Development; Executive


Assistant

Delaware County-based ​Willistown Conservation Trust​ is seeking qualified candidates for 2


positions: Director of Development and an Executive Assistant (part-time). ​Click Here for all
the details​ and how to apply.
[Posted: Dec. 28, 2018]

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.

The latest environmental NewsClips and news is available at the ​PA Environment Digest Daily
Blog​, ​Twitter Feed​ and ​add ​PaEnviroDigest Google+​ to your Circle.

Sunday NewsClips
PA’s Most Penalized, Controversial Natural Gas Pipeline Now In Service- Mariner East 2
AP: Energy Transfer Announces Mariner East 2 Pipeline Is In Service
Controversial Mariner East 2 Pipeline Now In Service
Mariner East 2 Pipeline Is Up And Running Sunoco Says
Updated:​ Feds Reverse Course, Will Now Sell New, Renewals Of National Flood Insurance
47
Policies During Govt. Shutdown
$80,000 From DEP Aims To Restore 1.5 Miles Of Bushkill Creek
Healing Waterways Energizes Susquehanna RiverKeeper
National Fuel Gas Bills Expected To Fall In 2019
AP: Climate Change Affecting Northeastern Pennsylvania
Lancaster County Passes 5 Feet Of Rain In 2018
AP: Firefighter Training Not Required, But Necessary Chiefs Say
High-Paying Jobs In Nuclear Power Aren’t Looking So Safe Anymore
Editorial: Ohiopyle River Guides Among 2018 Carnegie Hero Honorees
Flooding Closes Dauphin County Parks Through Sunday
Eagle Scout Project Brings Fitness Equipment To Lower Burrell Park
Crable: Part Of Camp Mack Could Become State Game Lands In Lancaster County
Lycoming County Bear Attack Victim’s Condition Improves Following Surgeries
Game Officers Investigating Unlawfully Killed Elk In Central PA
Hayes: New License Plan Lets Anglers Support Favorite Fishing Programs
Crable: Volunteer Birdwatchers Fan Out Across Lancaster County
Variety Of Birds Spotted In Fox Chapel During Audubon Bird Count
Letter: Changing Bird Migration Thru Erie Region Hints At Climate Change
Sunday - National/International
FEMA Now Says It Will Sell New, Renewed National Flood Insurance Policies
York County Environmental Group Blasts EPA Mercury Regulation Rollback
Trump Jokingly Congratulated Acting EPA Chief For Not Acting Like Pruitt
EPA Making It Harder To Tighten Mercury Rules On Power Plants In The Future
Politics
Click Here for a Week’s Worth Of Political NewsClips
Air
Release Of Natural Gas At Jessup Power Plant Rattles Midvalley Residents
Op-Ed: Oil & Gas Industry Should Walk Its Talk On Methane Pollution
Op-Ed: Why Is EPA Trying To Roll Back Methane Standards?
EPA Proposes Rule To Rollback Pollution Limits On Coal Power Plants
Awards & Recognition
Ohiopyle River Guides Recognized By Carnegie Hero Fund Commission
EPA Recognizes Pitt For Efforts To Reduce Food Waste
Centuries-Old Tree Could Be Cut Down For An Office Building In Montgomery County
AP: Groups Try To Save 300-Year-Old Tree From Removal In Montgomery County
Appalachian Trail Museum Accepting Hall Of Fame Nominations Thru Jan. 31
Biodiversity/Invasive Species
Agriculture Awards Grants For Spotted Lanternfly, Farm Conservation Research
Agriculture Announces $450,000 In Grants For Spotted Lanternfly Research
New Carnegie Museum App Shows Threat To Wildflower Diversity In The Woods
Insects Slipping Into U.S. Causing Billions Of Dollars In Damage
Budget
Murphy: House, Senate Sitting On $137.9 Million Surplus
AP-Scolforo: Lawmakers Report $43M Increase In Unspent Cash Reserves To $137.9M
Editorial: Legislators Still Hoard Tax Money

48
Op-Ed: Get DEP Up To Strength - Rep. Vitali
EPA Braces To Run Out Of Funds By Week’s End As Shutdown Continues
Chesapeake Bay
Stewardship Event In Juniata County Emphasizes Value Of Farm Conservation Practices,
Partnerships
Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here​ to subscribe to the free Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here​ to support the Chesapeake Bay Journal
Follow Chesapeake Bay Journal​ On Twitter
Like Chesapeake Bay Journal​ On Facebook
Citizen Action
Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition Needs Volunteer Data Loggers In Butler County
January Catalyst Newsletter Now Available From Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition
Appalachian Trail Museum Accepting Hall Of Fame Nominations Thru Jan. 31
Climate
Climate Change Affecting Northeast PA
2018 One Of Wettest Years On Record In Lehigh Valley
Release Of Natural Gas At Jessup Power Plant Rattles Midvalley Residents
New Book Arms Policymakers, Lawyers, Private Sector With Tools To Combat Climate Change
Action On Climate Change Divides Republicans In Congress
Young Activists Promote A Green New Deal In Congress On Climate
Cost Of Natural Disasters This Year Worldwide: $155 Billion
2018 First Year With No Violent Tornadoes In U.S.
Op-Ed: Oil & Gas Industry Should Walk Its Talk On Methane Pollution
Op-Ed: Why Is EPA Trying To Roll Back Methane Standards?
Trump Administration Continues To Undercut Its Own Climate Report
Coal Mining
Luzerne County Receives $88,700 From Active Mining Operations
Are Trump’s Policies Reviving PA’s Coal Industry?
EPA Proposes Rule To Rollback Pollution Limits On Coal Power Plants
Delaware River
DEP Awards $730,000 In Grants To Restore Streambanks, Stabilize Shorelines In Philly
Maykuth: Delaware River Deepening Project 2 Years Behind Schedule
Drinking Water
Bucks Congressman Seeks Allies In Water Contamination Battle
Litvak: Show Me The Benefits, Say Consumers, Groups About Aqua/Peoples Merger
Boil Water Notice Issued For Handful Of Homes In Altoona
Education
Westminster College Student Symposium On The Environment A Success, Attracts 73 College,
High School Students
No Duckling Slide At Farm Show, PennAg Industries Group Not Providing Staff
Hopey: New Camera Installed To Spy On Hays Bald Eagles In Pittsburgh
Pocono Environmental Ed Center: To Hibernate, Perchance To Dream
STEAM Academy Charter School Seeks Harrisburg District Approval
January Catalyst Newsletter Now Available From Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition

49
Emergency Response
AP: As Ranks Dwindle, Volunteer Firefighters Make Time To Serve
Cost Of Natural Disasters This Year Worldwide: $155 Billion
2018 First Year With No Violent Tornadoes In U.S.
Energy
PUC Reports 18,500 Households Starting Winter Without Heat In PA
Report: Thousands In PA Without Safe Winter Heating
Litvak: Duquesne Light v. Big-Name Customers, Electric Rate Case Ends In A Draw
EPA Proposes Rule To Rollback Pollution Limits On Coal Power Plants
Energy Conservation
PPL: New Online Buying Service Connect Customers to Energy Efficiency Products
Farming
Stewardship Event In Juniata County Emphasizes Value Of Conservation Practices, Partnerships
Agriculture Awards Grants For Spotted Lanternfly, Farm Conservation Research
Agriculture Announces $450,000 In Grants For Spotted Lanternfly Research
No Duckling Slide At Farm Show, PennAg Industries Group Not Providing Staff
Graybills Ponder Farm’s Future After Eminent Domain Battle With Manheim School District
Flooding
Flooding Prompts Inspection Of Stormwater Control System In Westmoreland
Washington Blvd Floodgates to Be Functions By January In Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh Parking Garage That Redirects Stormwater, Welcomes Bikes
Climate Change Affecting Northeast PA
2018 One Of Wettest Years On Record In Lehigh Valley
Harrisburg Breaks 76 Year Daily Rainfall Record For Dec. 28
Trump Signs National Flood Insurance Program Extension Bill
Cost Of Natural Disasters This Year Worldwide: $155 Billion
Forests
Centuries-Old Tree Could Be Cut Down For An Office Building In Montgomery County
AP: Groups Try To Save 300-Year-Old Tree From Removal In Montgomery County
PA, Oregon Towns Both Claim To Be Christmas Tree Capitol. Who’s Right?
Schneck: New Uses For Old Christmas Trees
O’Neill: A Mulch Appreciated Way To Recycle Your Christmas Tree
Here’s How Pittsburgh Residents Can Recycle Their Christmas Trees
State College Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree Has Many Lives, Here’s Its Latest
Agriculture Awards Grants For Spotted Lanternfly, Farm Conservation Research
Agriculture Announces $450,000 In Grants For Spotted Lanternfly Research
Green Infrastructure
Stewardship Event In Juniata County Emphasizes Value Of Conservation Practices, Partnerships
DEP Awards $730,000 In Grants To Restore Streambanks, Stabilize Shorelines In Philly
State To Kick In Money To Help Restore Part Of Bushkill Creek That Lost Flow
Hazardous Sites Cleanup
Bucks Congressman Seeks Allies In Water Contamination Battle
Land Conservation
AP: High Water To Keep Washington’s Crossing Reenactors On Land
How The Spot Where Washington Crossed The Delaware Almost Became A Shopping Mall

50
Littering/Illegal Dumping
KPB Cameras Help Nab Illegal Dumpers In Arnold
Dumpers, Litters Watch Out! Philly Hikes Scrutiny, Fines In Bid To Cleanup Worst Blocks
19 NJ Cities Banned Plastic Bags In 2018, Philly Could Join Them In 2019
Mine Reclamation
January Catalyst Newsletter Now Available From Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition
Ex-Lobbyist Who Carries Card to Remind Him Of All His Conflicts Is favorite To Replace
Zinke
Oil & Gas
Release Of Natural Gas At Jessup Power Plant Rattles Midvalley Residents
UGI: Exact Cause Of Valve Release Opening At Jessup Natural Gas Power Plant Unknown
Op-Ed: Oil & Gas Industry Should Walk Its Talk On Methane Pollution
Op-Ed: Methane Pollution Limits Reflect Conservative Values
Sisk: Efficiencies, Pipelines Help Propel 2018 Natural Gas Production
Washington, Greene Counties Near Top Of Shale Gas Producers
Op-Ed: Why Is EPA Trying To Roll Back Methane Standards?
Litvak: Show Me The Benefits, Say Consumers, Groups About Aqua/Peoples Merger
Peoples Natural Gas Rates To Rise Jan. 1
Fmr Worley & Obetz Heating Oil Business Sold To Shipley Energy
Gasoline Prices Drop In Western PA But Still Among Highest In The Nation
Pipelines
Hurdle: Spills, Shutdowns, Record Fines, Legal Challenges: A Tumultuous Year For Mariner
East 2 Pipeline
Sisk: Efficiencies, Pipelines Help Propel 2018 Natural Gas Production
FERC OKs Erie-To-Ohio Risberg Natural Gas Pipeline
State Permits Clear Way For New Pipeline To Beaver County Ethane Plant
Recreation
Ohiopyle River Guides Recognized By Carnegie Hero Fund Commission
DCNR Hosts First Day Hikes At PA State Parks New Year’s Day
Demko: First Day Hikes Growing In Popularity Across Lehigh Valley
Schneck: Best First Day Hikes To Greet The New Year
DEP Awards $730,000 In Grants To Restore Streambanks, Stabilize Shorelines In Philly
Dec. 28 Take Five Fridays With Pam, PA Parks & Forests Foundation
Karl Stirner Arts Trail To Buy Easton Iron & Metal Co. For Expansion
Crable: Cocalico Creek Bridge Completion Will Allow Full Opening Of Ephrata Rail Trail
Lackawanna River Trail Organization Plans New Section In Dickson City
Gnome Homes In Community Park Reduced To Sticks By Vandals
Editorial: Don’t Give Up On Bike-Sharing Yet In Lancaster
Appalachian Trail Museum Accepting Hall Of Fame Nominations Thru Jan. 31
Delaware Water Gap Recreation Area Open During Govt. Shutdown
Gettysburg National Military Park Closed During Shutdown
Government Shutdown Affects Flight 93 Memorial, Fort Necessity
Some National Parks Stay Open During Shutdown, Confusion Reigns
Ex-Lobbyist Who Carries Card to Remind Him Of All His Conflicts Is favorite To Replace
Zinke

51
Recycling/Waste
Pittsburgh Residents Can Recycle TVs, E-Waste, Household Chemicals, For A Fee
Erie Residents Face New Recycling Rules
What You Can Recycle During The Holidays In Erie County
Christmas Recycling Programs Offered In Blair County
EPA Recognizes Pitt For Efforts To Reduce Food Waste
Latrobe Eyes 26% Hike In Garbage Collection Fees
A New Chinese Policy Forces People To Ask: Is There A Better Way To Recycle?
Renewable Energy
Sisk: Solar Energy Co-Ops Grow In Western PA
Stormwater
Flooding Prompts Inspection Of Stormwater Control System In Westmoreland
Pittsburgh Parking Garage That Redirects Stormwater, Welcomes Bikes
Wastewater
Scranton Pension Funds Receive Delayed Sewer Sale Proceeds
Watershed Protection
Stewardship Event In Juniata County Emphasizes Value Of Conservation Practices, Partnerships
DEP Awards $730,000 In Grants To Restore Streambanks, Stabilize Shorelines In Philly
State To Kick In Money To Help Restore Part Of Bushkill Creek That Lost Flow
Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition Needs Volunteer Data Loggers In Butler County
Op-Ed: Rolling Back Clean Water Protections Will Hurt Our Communities​ - Andrew Johnson,
Carol Collier, Peter Howell
Maykuth: Delaware River Deepening Project 2 Years Behind Schedule
Latest From The Chesapeake Bay Journal
Click Here​ to subscribe to the Chesapeake Bay Journal
Follow Chesapeake Bay Journal​ On Twitter
Like Chesapeake Bay Journal​ On Facebook
Wildlife
Schneck: New Uses For Old Christmas Trees
Reindeer Farmers In Harborcreek Near End Of Busy Season
Moyer: Culverts Passing Water Under Roads May Be Blocking Passage Of Fish
Bagenstose: As Feds Debate Bird Law, Bucks Towns Aim To Boost Local Populations
Why 1,000s Of Snow Geese Are Congregating Along Lehigh Valley Highways
Schneck: Prime Season For the Backyard Birder Takes Flight
Hopey: New Camera Installed To Spy On Hays Bald Eagles In Pittsburgh
Pocono Environmental Ed Center: To Hibernate, Perchance To Dream
Japan To Restart Commercial Whaling In July

Click Here For This Week's Allegheny Front Radio Program

Public Participation Opportunities/Calendar Of Events

This section lists House and Senate Committee meetings, DEP and other public hearings and
meetings and other interesting environmental events.
NEW​ means new from last week. Go to the ​online Calendar​ webpage for updates.
52
Note: ​DEP published the 2019 schedules of its advisory committees, councils and board
meetings in the ​Dec. 10 PA Bulletin, page 7708​.

January 1--​ First Day Of New 2019-2020 Legislative Session

January 1--​ ​DCNR, Partners First Day Hikes To Start The New Year​.

January 9-- ​DEP Coastal Zone Advisory Committee​ meeting. 12th Floor Conference Room,
Rachel Carson Building. 9:30. Contact: Stacey Box, 717-772-5622 or ​sbox@pa.gov​.

January 9--​ ​DEP Technical Advisory Committee on Diesel-Powered Equipment​ (Mining)


meeting. DEP New Stanton Office, 131 Broadview Road, New Stanton. 10:00. Contact: Peggy
Scheloske, 724-404-3143 or ​mscheloske@pa.gov​.

January 10--​ ​DEP Coal And Clay Mine Subsidence Insurance Fund Board​ meeting. 12th Floor
Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. Contact: James Charowsky, 717-787-7007.
jcharowsky@pa.gov​.

January 10--​ ​Penn State Extension Farm Soil Health & Cover Crop Workshop​. Penn State
Extension Mercer County, 463 North Perry Highway, Mercer. 10:00 to 1:00.

January 10-11--​ ​NDAL Ecology Based Landscape Design: What Comes Next?​ Montgomery
County Community College.

January 11--​ ​Foundation for Sustainable Forests. French Creek Valley Conservancy. Woods &
Waters Film Series​. Helene Barco-Duratz Cultural Center, 415 Chestnut Street (East Alley
entrance), Meadville, Crawford County. 6:30.

January 12--​ ​Delaware Highlands Conservancy Eagle Watch Bus Tour​. 10:00 to 1:00,​ ​Click
Here​ for more.

January 15--​ Inauguration Day For Gov. Wolf, Lt. Gov. Fetterman

January 16--​ ​PA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Planning Steering Committee​ meeting. Room 105
Rachel Carson Building. 1:00. ​Click Here​ to register to join the meeting by webinar.
Participants also need to call in ​1-650-479-3208, PASSCODE: 642 304 985​.

January 16--​ ​Penn State Extension Land Use Webinar Series​. ​Zoning Ethics, Overview Of
Zoning And Land Development Plan Process​. Noon to 1:15.

January 17--​ ​DEP Mining & Reclamation Advisory Board​ meeting & Regulatory, Legislative &
Technical Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 8:30 (Committee), 10:00
(Board). A conference call option will also be available. DEP Contact: Daniel Snowden,
717-783-8846 or ​dsnowden@pa.gov​. ​(f​ ormal notice)​

53
January 18--​ ​Harrisburg University Center for Environment, Energy & Economy Climate
Disruption & Sustainable Development Series​: What Citizens Need To Know About Climate
Change. Harrisburg University, 14th Floor Auditorium, 326 Market Street, Harrisburg. 11:30 to
1:00.

January 19--​ ​Brodhead Watershed Association. Schisler Museum Naturalist Hike - Students,
Adults​. East Stroudsburg University, Monroe County. 1:00- Students, 3:00- Adults

January 22--​ ​DEP Citizens Advisory Council ​meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building.
10:00. Contact: Keith Calador, Executive Director, 717-787-8171 or ​ksalador@pa.gov​.

January 23-- ​DEP Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee​ meeting. 12th Floor
Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. Contact: Nancy Herb, 717-783-9269 or
nherb@pa.gov​.

January 24--​ ​DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee​ meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 9:30. Contact: Diane Wilson, 717-787-3720 or ​diawilson@pa.gov​.

January 24--​ ​DEP Aggregate Advisory Board​ Regulatory, Legislative & Technical Committee
meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. A conference call option
will also be available. DEP Contact: Daniel Snowden, 717-783-8846 or ​dsnowden@pa.gov​.
(​formal notice)​

January 24--​ ​Penn State Extension, Partners Online Tree Tender Training​. First of weekly
sessions through March 7. Noon, 7:00.

January 26--​ ​Delaware Highlands Conservancy Eagle Watch Bus Tour​. Noon to 1:00.​ ​Click
Here​ for more.

January 27-30--​ ​Partnership For The Delaware Estuary​. ​2019 Delaware Estuary Science &
Environmental Summit​. Cape May, NJ.

January 30--​ ​NEW​. ​DEP Open House/Hearing On Specialty Granules, LLC NPDES Water
Quality Permit for a Mining Operation In Adams County​. ​Fairfield Fire and EMS Building​, 106
Steelman Street, Fairfield. 6:00

January 31--​ ​DEP Small Water Systems Technical Assistance Center Board​ meeting. Room
105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. Contact: Dawn Hissner, 717-772-2189 or ​dhissner@pa.gov​.

February 2--​ ​Delaware Highlands Conservancy Eagle Watch Bus Tour​. 10:00 to 1:00.​ ​Click
Here​ for more.

February 5- ​Governor’s Budget Address.

54
February 6--​ ​Penn State Extension Woods In Your Backyard Webinar Series Starts​. 7:00 to
8:00 p.m.

February 6-8--​ ​Penn State Agriculture & Environment Center​. ​PA In The Balance Conference
On Farm Conservation​. Hershey Lodge, Hershey.

February 6-9--​ ​PA Association For Sustainable Agriculture​. ​Pennsylvania Sustainable


Agriculture Conference​. ​Lancaster County Convention Center​, Lancaster.

February 7--​ ​Harrisburg University Center for Environment, Energy & Economy Climate
Disruption & Sustainable Development Series​: Is 100% Renewable Energy The Answer To
Climate Change?. Harrisburg University, 14th Floor Auditorium, 326 Market Street, Harrisburg.
11:30 to 1:00.

February 11--​ ​House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 10:00- Independent Fiscal
​ ouse Republican
Office. Room 140 Main Capitol. ​Hearings are typically webcast through the H
Caucus​ website.

February 12-13--​ ​Advanced Watershed Educator Workshops For Non-Formal Educators​.


Dauphin County Agriculture & Natural Resources Center​, 1451 Peters Mountain Road, Dauphin,
Dauphin County.​ ​Click Here to register​.

February 13--​ ​House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 10:00- State Treasurer, 1:00-
Auditor General, 3:00- Attorney General. Room 140 Main Capitol. ​Hearings are typically
webcast through the ​House Republican Caucus​ website.

February 14--​ ​House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 10:00- Dept. of


Environmental Protection, 1:00- Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources. Room 140 Main
​ ouse Republican Caucus​ website.
Capitol. ​Hearings are typically webcast through the H

February 19--​ ​Senate Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 10::00- Dept. of


Revenue/Lottery, 1:00- Independent Fiscal Office, 3:00- Public Utility Commission. Hearing
Room 1, North Office Building.

February 20--​ ​Penn State Extension Land Use Webinar Series​. ​Geodesign: Using Data
Transparency And Community Voices For Enhanced Land Use Planning​. Noon to 1:15.

February 20-21--​ ​DCNR, Western PA Conservancy. PA Riparian Forest Buffer Summit​. Best
Western Premier Conference Center, 800 East Park Drive, Harrisburg.

February 21-- ​PA Resources Council. Zero Waste Pennsylvania. Green Building Alliance. True
Zero Waste Symposium​. ​Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens​, Pittsburgh. 8:00 to 3:00.

February 21--​ ​Senate Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 1:00- State Police/Homeland
Security, 3:00- PA Emergency Management Agency/Fire Commissioner. Hearing Room 1,

55
North Office Building.

February 22--​ ​Foundation for Sustainable Forests. French Creek Valley Conservancy. Woods &
Waters Film Series​. ​Erie National Wildlife Refuge Visitor Center​, 11296 Wood Duck Lance,
Guys Mills, Crawford County. 6:30.

February 24-25--​ ​PA Environmental Council​, ​PA Organization For Watersheds & Rivers​.
Statewide Watershed Connections Conference​. State College.

February 25--​ ​House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 10:00- State


Police/Homeland Security, 3:00- Dept. of Health. Room 140 Main Capitol. ​Hearings are
​ ouse Republican Caucus​ website.
typically webcast through the H

February 25--​ ​Senate Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 3:00- Dept. of


Transportation. Hearing Room 1, North Office Building.

February 26--​ ​House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 1:00- Dept. of


Transportation, 3:00- Dept. of General Services. Room 140 Main Capitol. ​Hearings are
​ ouse Republican Caucus​ website.
typically webcast through the H

February 27--​ ​House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 1:00- Dept. of Community &
Economic Development. Room 140 Main Capitol. ​Hearings are typically webcast through the
House Republican Caucus​ website.

February 27--​ ​Senate Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 10:00- Dept. of Health.
Hearing Room 1, North Office Building.

February 28--​ ​Senate Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 3:00- Dept. of


Environmental Protection. Hearing Room 1, North Office Building.

March 2--​ ​PA Wilds.​ ​Retailers, Producers, Public 3rd Annual PA Wilds Buyer’s Market​.
Gemmell Student Complex Multi-Purpose Room​, Clarion University.

March 4--​ ​House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 10:00- Dept. of Education.
​ ouse Republican Caucus
Room 140 Main Capitol. ​Hearings are typically webcast through the H
website.

March 4--​ ​Senate Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 3:00- Dept. of Conservation &
Natural Resources. Hearing Room 1, North Office Building.

March 5--​ ​House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 10:00- Dept. of Agriculture.
​ ouse Republican Caucus
Room 140 Main Capitol. ​Hearings are typically webcast through the H
website.

March 5-- ​DEP Board Of Coal Mine Safety​ meeting. DEP Ebensburg Office, 286 Industrial

56
Park Road, Ebensburg. 10:00. DEP Contact: Margaret Scheloske, 724-404-3143,
mscheloske@pa.gov​. ​(​formal notice​)

March 5-6--​ ​Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance​. ​Healthcare Industry Forum On Energy
Efficiency​. Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center, State College, Centre County.

March 6--​ ​House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 10:00- Governor’s Budget
Secretary. Room 140 Main Capitol. ​Hearings are typically webcast through the ​House
Republican Caucus​ website.

March 6--​ ​Senate Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 1:00- Dept. of Agriculture.
Hearing Room 1, North Office Building.

March 7--​ ​House Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 10:00- Open. Room 140 Main
​ ouse Republican Caucus​ website.
Capitol. ​Hearings are typically webcast through the H

March 7--​ ​Senate Appropriations Committee Budget Hearings​: 1:00- Dept. of Community &
Economic Development, 3:00- Budget Secretary. Hearing Room 1, North Office Building.

March 9--​ ​2019 Watershed Congress Along The Schuylkill River​. Montgomery County
Community College​ ​campus in Pottstown​.

March 9--​ ​Penn State Extension York County Master Gardeners GardenWise Native Plants,
Ecosystems Gardening Workshop​ ​Central York Middle School​, 1950 N. Hills Road, York. 7:30
to 4:00.

March 15--​ ​Harrisburg University Center for Environment, Energy & Economy Climate
Disruption & Sustainable Development Series​: Legal Pathways To Zero Greenhouse Gas
Emissions. Harrisburg University, 14th Floor Auditorium, 326 Market Street, Harrisburg. 11:30
to 1:00.

March 18-19-- ​PA Assn. Of Environmental Educators​. ​2019 Cityscapes & Greenscapes
Conference​. Philadelphia.

March 20--​ ​Penn State Extension Land Use Webinar Series​. ​Options For Meeting MS4
Stormwater Pollution Reduction Requirements Without Breaking The Budget​. Noon to 1:15.

March 20-21-​- ​NEW​. ​Northeast Recycling Council Spring Conference.​ Wilmington, DE.

March 21-- ​DEP Oil and Gas Technical Advisory Board​ meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson
Building. 10:00. DEP Contact: Todd Wallace, 717-783-9438, ​twallace@pa.gov​. ​(f​ ormal
notice)​

March 27-28--​ ​Advanced Watershed Educator Workshops For Non-Formal Educators​. ​Jennings
Environmental Education Center​, 2951 Prospect Road, Slippery Rock, Butler County.​ ​Click

57
Here to register​.

March 29--​ ​Harrisburg University Center for Environment, Energy & Economy Climate
Disruption & Sustainable Development Series​: Natural Gas In PA: Energy, Innovation And The
Environment. Harrisburg University, 14th Floor Auditorium, 326 Market Street, Harrisburg.
11:30 to 1:00.

April 5-- ​Wildlife For Everyone We Love Wild Things & Wild Places Gala​.

April 5--​ ​Harrisburg University Center for Environment, Energy & Economy Climate Disruption
& Sustainable Development Series​: Towards A Public Web-Platform For Limiting Methane
Emissions From The Oil & Gas Sector. Harrisburg University, 14th Floor Auditorium, 326
Market Street, Harrisburg. 11:30 to 1:00.

April 7-9--​ ​CMU Mascaro Center For Sustainable Innovation. 2019 Engineering Sustainability
Conference​. ​David L. Lawrence Convention Center​, Pittsburgh.

April 17--​ ​Penn State Extension Land Use Webinar Series​. ​Making The Most Of Historical And
Heritage Assets​. Noon to 1:15.

April 19--​ ​Harrisburg University Center for Environment, Energy & Economy Climate
Disruption & Sustainable Development Series​: Using The Latest Digital Innovations To Address
Energy Poverty In Developing Counties. Harrisburg University, Room 1151, 326 Market Street,
Harrisburg. 11:30 to 1:00.

April 29 to May 2--​ ​Center for Watershed Protection​. ​2019 National Watershed and Stormwater
Conference​. South Carolina.

May 1--​ ​Pennsylvania Groundwater Symposium​. State College.

May 8-10--​ ​PA Assn. Of Environmental Professionals​. ​2019 Annual Conference - Growth
Through Collaboration​. State College.

May 15--​ ​Penn State Extension Land Use Webinar Series​. ​The Benefits And Challenges of
Ridesharing On The Transportation System​. Noon to 1:15.

May 16-18--​ ​PA Land Trust Association​. ​Land Conservation Conference​. Monroe County.

July 24-26-- ​Professional Recyclers Of PA​. ​Annual Recycling & Organics Conference​.
Harrisburg.

October 8-10--​ ​Natural Areas Association Natural Areas Conference​. Pittsburgh.

Related Tools ----------------

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Visit DEP’s ​Public Participation Center​ for public participation opportunities.
Click Here​ for links to DEP’s Advisory Committee webpages.
Visit ​DEP Connects​ for opportunities to interact with DEP staff at field offices.
Click Here​ to sign up for DEP News a biweekly newsletter from the Department.
DEP Facebook Page​ ​DEP Twitter Feed​ ​DEP YouTube Channel
DEP Calendar of Events​ ​DCNR Calendar of Events
Click Here​ to hook up with DCNR on other social media-- Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and
Flickr.
Senate Committee Schedule​ ​House Committee Schedule
You can watch the ​Senate Floor Session​ and ​House Floor Session​ live online.

Grants & Awards

This section gives you a heads up on upcoming deadlines for awards and grants and other
recognition programs. ​NEW​ means new from last week.

December 30--​ ​Coca-Cola, Keep America Beautiful Public Spaces Recycling Bin Grants
December 31--​ ​DEP County Act 101 Waste Planning, HHW, Education Grants
January 4--​ ​Voting Ends For 2019 Pennsylvania River Of The Year
January 11-- ​DEP Class 8 Truck/Transit Bus Clean Vehicle Grants
January 11-- ​PennDOT Green Light-Go Program, LED Light Upgrades
January 11-​- ​DEP Environmental Education Grants
January 11--​ ​PA Solar Center Assistance To Nonprofits Converting To Solar Energy
January 11--​ ​Small Farms, Big Impact Sustainable Farming Grants
January 16--​ ​West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund Project Funding
January 18--​ ​South Mountain Partnership Spirit Of South Mountain Award
January 18--​ ​PA Land Trust Assn. Lifetime Achievement Award
January 25--​ ​DEP Grants/Rebates Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
January 25--​ ​Appalachian Audubon Hog Island Youth Education Scholarship
January 31--​ ​NFWF Five Star & Urban Waters Restoration Grants
January 31--​ ​EPA Brownfields Assessment, Cleanup and Multipurpose Grants
January 31--​ ​NEW​. ​Appalachian Trail Museum Hall Of Fame Nominations
February 4-- ​PA Environmental Professionals College Scholarships
February 8--​ ​DEP FAST Act Alternative Fuels Corridor Infrastructure Grants
February 8-- ​Wildlife Leadership Academy Youth Conservation Ambassador
February 11--​ ​PA Land Trust Assn. Government Leadership Award
February 15--​ ​EPA Environmental Justice Small Grants
February 15--​ ​Delaware River Basin Commission Winter Photo Contest
February 15--​ ​Green Stormwater Infrastructure Partners Awards - Philly Area
February 20--​ ​NOAA Chesapeake Bay Watershed Education & Training Grants
February 28--​ ​PA Great Outdoors Visitors Bureau Winter Photo Contest
March 1--​ ​PA Parks & Forests Foundation Wilderness Wheels Grants​ ​(Rolling Deadline)
March 1--​ ​West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Investment Funding​ ​(Rolling Deadline)
March 4-- ​DCNR PA Outdoor Corps Young Adult Crews​ ​(At The Very Latest!)
March 15-- ​WPC TreeVitalize Pittsburgh, Allegheny County Tree Planting Grants
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March 31--​ ​DEP Level 2 Electric Charging Station Rebates​ ​(First-Come)
May 10-- ​DEP Class 8 Truck/Transit Bus Clean Vehicle Grants
July 15--​ ​DEP Grants/Rebates Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
December 16--​ ​DEP Grants/Rebates Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
March 1--​ ​Western PA Trail Volunteer Fund Grants
March 22--​ ​DEP Act 101 Recycling Implementation Grants
June 1--​ ​Western PA Trail Volunteer Fund Grants
September 1--​ ​Western PA Trail Volunteer Fund Grants
September 23-- ​DEP Class 8 Truck/Transit Bus Clean Vehicle Grants
December 1--​ ​Western PA Trail Volunteer Fund Grants

-- Visit the ​DEP Grant, Loan and Rebate Programs​ webpage for more ideas on how to get
financial assistance for environmental projects.
-- Visit the DCNR ​Apply for Grants​ webpage for a listing of financial assistance available from
DCNR.

Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits

Here are highlights of actions taken by agencies on environmental regulations, technical


guidance and permits.

Regulations -----------------------

No new regulations were published this week. ​Pennsylvania Bulletin - December 29, 2018

Technical Guidance -------------------

The Department of Environmental Protection ​published notice​ in the December 29 PA Bulletin


rescinding technical guidance on coordinating the review of surface mining permit applications
with the Fish and Boat Commission as redundant (560-0700-302).

Permits ------------

The Department of Environmental Protection ​published notice ​in the December 29 PA Bulletin
extending the deadline for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations under General Permit
PAG-12 to submit annual reports to February 15, 2019.
This notice only affects CAFO annual reports due in 2019. The previous deadline was
January 1.
For more information on this program, visit DEP’s ​Concentrated Animal Feeding
Operations​ webpage.

DEP published notice in the December 29 PA Bulletin of revisions to the Air Emission
Reduction Credits Registry (​page 7983​).

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Note:​ The Department of Environmental Protection published 36 pages of public notices related
to proposed and final permit and approval/ disapproval actions in the December 29 PA Bulletin -
pages 7950 to 7986​.

Sign Up For DEP’s eNotice:​ Did you know DEP can send you email notices of permit
applications submitted in your community? Notice of new technical guidance documents and
regulations? All through its eNotice system. ​Click Here​ to sign up.

Related Tools ----------------------

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

DEP Proposals Out For Public Review


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

DEP Regulations In Process


Proposed Regulations Open For Comment​ - DEP webpage
Submit Comments on Proposals Through ​DEP’s eComment System
Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods​ - DEP webpage
Recently Finalized Regulations​ - DEP webpage
DEP Regulatory Update​ - DEP webpage
August 4, 2018 DEP Regulatory Agenda - ​PA Bulletin, Page 4733

DEP Technical Guidance In Process


Draft Technical Guidance Documents​ - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines​ - DEP webpage
Submit Comments on Proposals Through ​DEP’s eComment System
Recently Closed Comment Periods For Technical Guidance​ - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance Recently Finalized​ - DEP webpage
Copies of Final Technical Guidance​ - DEP webpage
DEP Non-Regulatory/Technical Guidance Documents Agenda (July 2018)​- DEP webpage

CLICK HERE To View Or Print Entire PA Environment Digest

CLICK HERE​ to View or Print the entire PA Environment Digest. This Digest is 60 pages long.

Stories Invited - About PA Environment Digest

Send your stories, photos and links to videos about your project, environmental issues or
programs for publication in the ​PA Environment Digest​ to: ​PaEnviroDigest@gmail.com​.

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PA Environment Digest​ is a publication of ​PA Environment News LLC​ and is edited by
David E. Hess, former Secretary Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. He can
be contacted by sending email to: ​PaEnviroDigest@gmail.com​.

Did you know you can search back issues of ​PA Environment Digest​ since May 28, 2004 on
dozens of topics, by county and on any keyword you choose? ​Just click on the search page​.

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Educators' ​2009 Business Partner of the Year Award​.

Also take advantage of these related publications--

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©2018 PA Environment News LLC, All Rights Reserved

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and National Abandoned Mine Lands Program Conference​ to be held in Pittsburgh on September
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