PA Environment Digest

An Update On Environmental Issues In PA

Edited By: David E. Hess, Crisci Associates
Winner 2009 PAEE Business Partner Of The Year Award Harrisburg, Pa January 2, 2012

Read About Hundreds Of Award-Winning Environmental Stewards From 2011 Individuals, businesses, farmers, schools, local governments, students of all ages, nonprofit groups and organizations just like you are doing great things to protect and restore Pennsylvania's environmental all the time and in every corner of the Commonwealth. If you don't believe us, read about these award-winning performances in the following 92 stories included in the PA Environment Digest in 2011. You've got NO excuse! Peach Bottom Power Plant Receives International Habitat Conservation Award Somerset Firm Involved In Quecreek, Chilean Mine Rescues Recognized By President EPA: Commonwealth Ranks 5th In Green Power Usage Chester County Recognizes West Chester University With Green Business Award Pennsylvania Parks & Forests Foundation Honors Award Recipients May 3 Clean Air Award Presented To Director Of Coalition For Appropriate Transportation EPA Recognizes Communities For Sustainability Initiatives Junior Achievement Of Western PA Honors Marcellus Shale Coalition PA American Water Earns Honors From American Engineering Council Of PA Blue Mountain School District EPA Energy Star Leader PA's RecycleBank Tops Wall Street Journal's List Of Top Green Companies Chatham University Selected For Bicycle Friendly Business Designation EPA Recognizes Philadelphia School District With National Great Start Award Sunoco Wins EPA Energy Star Sustained Excellence Award EPA Recognizes Saint-Gobain With Energy Star Sustained Excellence Award Swarthmore Among Top Five In EPA's Green Power Community Challenge At Mid-Point Philadelphia Ranks 14th In Number Of Green Buildings Brandywine Christina Clean Water Partnership Announces Award Winners Jack Ubinger Receives PA Bar Associations Lifetime Achievement Award PEC Named Only Top-Rated Green Non-Profit Based In PA Carlisle Solar Project Presented With A 2011 PV Projects Of Distinction Awards

DEP Congratulates Award-Winning Lancaster Brownfields Revitalization Project Four Penn State Water Quality Projects Honored By U.S.D.A. Delaware River Designated As National Great Water EPA Recognizes Leaders In Energy Efficiency, Including 4 In PA Winners Of Western PA Environmental Awards Announced, Dinner May 26 EPA Names Regional Environmental Achievement Award Winners, 5 In PA Philadelphia High School Student Wins President's Environmental Award DCNR Recognizes Chester County Parks & Recreation With 2nd Annual Green Park Award Chatham University, Other PA Schools Featured In The Princeton Guide To Green Colleges Big Ten Conference Leader In College, University Green Power Challenge 2011 State Park, Forest Award Winners, Gala Dinner May 3 Water Resources Association Of Delaware Basin Presents 2011 Awards Gov. Corbett Announces 2011 Environmental Excellence Award Winners Senate Resolution Congratulates 186,000+ Great American Cleanup Of PA Volunteers PA Wilds Honors 16 Residents, Small Businesses, Organizations Winners Of PPFF State Park And Forest Awards Honored Howard Neurug, Philadelphia Water Dept., To Receive PEC's Lifetime Achievement Award DCNR Salutes Employees' Award-Winning Efforts Chesapeake Bay Foundation Announces 2011 Photo Contest Winners Penncrest High School Wins 2011 Pennsylvania Envirothon Pennsylvania Outdoor Recreation Plan Recognized As Nation's Best PRC, SW Air Quality Partnership Announce Let's Clear The Air Poster Contest Winners North Pittsburgh School Wins National Pennies For The Planet BioBash Prize Ross Levin Wins Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Sue Wiseman Scholarship Dr. James K. Bissell To Receive 2011 John C. Oliver Environmental Leadership Award Spotlight - Susquehanna River Basin Commission Marks 40 Years 9 American Water Plants Receive National Recognition In PA Winners Of Chester County High School Recycling Video Contest Announced National Best Restored Beach Award Honors Presque Isle State Park Wildlands Conservancys Friend of the Lehigh River Award Recipients Announced CBF, Partners Celebrate EPA Award For Conservation Improvements To PA Farms Janie French Nominated For Women Greening Pittsburgh Honor Students Share Their Bright Ideas With PPL Electric Utilities Conservation Districts Celebrate Environmental Success, Discuss Challenges, Recognition PA Farmers Recognized For Efforts To Protect Chesapeake Bay Conservation District Staff Recognized For Work To Improve PAs Environment Dickinson College Receives Highest Possible Score On Green Honor Roll Penn State Achieves Silver Rating In First Sustainability Review

PA Recyclers Announce FilmFest Winning Videos, Conference Success Northeast Environmental Partners Announce Award Winners, October 27 Dinner 2011 Waste Watcher Recipients Recognized By PROP Trail Challenge Award Presented To Accomplished Hiker: Lois Ludwig Federal Office Of Surface Mining Recognizes Luzerne County Reclamation Project Swarthmore Ranks 3rd In National Green Power Competition Jacobsburg EE Center's Bill Sweeney Honored By Conservancy Dominion Earns One Of Three EPA Energy Star CHP Awards Laurie Popeck, Maurice K. Goddard Legacy Task Force Win 2011 Karl Mason Award 2 Pennsylvanians Among Chesapeake Bay Forest Champions Honored Ohio River Watershed Celebration Attracts Nearly 1,000, Recognizes Partnerships First LEED Public Housing Project Wins Commonwealth Award In Philadelphia Livziey's 2011 Maurice K. Goddard Forest Management & Sustainability Award Winners Aqua PA Receives Crum Ridley Creek Watershed Association Award Western PA Conservancy Watershed Conservation Program Celebrates 10th Anniversary Genesee & Wyoming's David Powell Wins Professional Environmental Excellence Award EPA Recognizes Carnegie Mellon As Top Green Energy Buyer Trout Unlimited, Fish Commission, DEP Celebrate West Branch Susquehanna Recovery Chatham University Receives Green Power Award White Deer Drinking Water Treatment Plan Receives National Award Delaware River Honored As 2011 River Of The Year U.S. Dept. Of Interior To Highlight 2 PA Recreation Projects Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Recognizes Outstanding Volunteers and Programs Pennsylvania Woman Recognized For Innovative Environmental Leadership Pittsburgh's PPG Glass Used In Three Of AIA's Top 10 Green Building Projects EPA Recognizes 3 PA Colleges For Green Power Leadership Green Vision Award Bestowed On Philadelphia International Airport Plan Shaping Philadelphia's Green Spaces Wins Award Southeast Household Hazardous Waste Drop-Off Program Wins Recognition Western PA Conservancy Gardens Receive Greening Awards Independent Peer Review Praises DEPs Bureau Of Laboratories Mountaintop Area Elementary School Wins Recycling Competition In Centre County PennDot Litter Cleanup Efforts Win National Recognition Major Environmental Legislative Issues In 2012, Same As 2011

Following his 12 minute inaugural address last January, Gov. Corbett did not start his administration with the usual laundry list of "to-dos" like most Governors. He only had one-bring in an on-time budget without raising taxes. He accomplished that goal with the help of his Republican colleagues in the Senate and House literally at the 11th hour in June 30 with very painful cuts reducing the size of state government by 4.1 percent. The new FY 2011-12 budget preserved the disastrous Rendell cuts to environmental programs, but at least didn't make too many more. The bright spots were the Resource Enhancement and Protection (REAP) Farm Conservation Tax Credit Program, which was restored to its full $10 million in funding, and a transfer of $15 million from the PA Infrastructure Investment Authority to the H2O Water Infrastructure Program administered by the Commonwealth Financing Authority. After the budget, Marcellus Shale legislation was the top environmental priority for the year, which ultimately did not make it to the Governor's desk and is now in conference committee. Almost all of the same environmental issues will be returning in 2012 to face the Corbett Administration and the General Assembly. Here is just a sampling of what's ahead--- Budg-a-geddon II: As the calendar ticks down to his February 7 budget address, the outlook for this budget season is in some ways grimmer than last year. Budget Secretary Charles Zogby said during his mid-year budget briefing the Corbett Administration expects an end of fiscal year deficit of $500 million. As a result, Secretary Zogby said his office is preparing a list of current year spending cuts the Governor will consider implementing immediately at the beginning of the new year. He said there is more than $1 billion in unavoidable spending growth which needs to be accommodated in the 2012-13 state budget. He pointed to a $520 million in increase school ($320 million) and state employee ($200 million) pension costs, $400 million increase in Medical Assistance and an $80 million increase in debt service, inspite of efforts to cut costs. Secretary Zogby said the bottom line is the Governor is likely to need about $750 million to bring the FY 2012-13 budget into balance. He said the Governor is not going to make up this shortfall with tax increases. State agencies have already been asked to submit a budget assuming a further 5 percent reduction in spending, with no exemptions, but Secretary Zogby said no decisions have been made on any line items. He also said the Corbett Administration has cut the number of new Capital Budget project authorizations in half and noted next year there will be an increase in Unemployment Compensation insurance for businesses, additional steps taken in controlling Corrections costs and more cuts or automatic sequestration of federal funding which will all have an impact on planning for FY 2012-2013. -- Marcellus Shale: A late session flurry of activity where the Senate and House each passed separate Marcellus Shale bills ended when, on the last day of session, the House voted to send House Bill 1950 (Ellis-R-Butler) to a conference committee.

The separate bills passed by the Senate and House would amend the Oil and Gas Act to include additional environmental protection measures, but proposed very different drilling fee schemes. The Senate favors a uniform, statewide fee supporting local communities and state environmental programs. The House Republicans supported the Governor's optional, countyimposed drilling fee to support local communities and would finance some state environmental programs through a separate allocation from DCNR's Oil and Gas Fund. Intense negotiations for weeks prior to adjournment between Senate and House Republicans and the Corbett Administration failed to come to an agreement. They will continue into the new year in hopes something can be cobbled together to pass. -- Renew Growing Greener: 2011 ended as it began-- without a plan to renew funding for the award-winning Growing Greener Program. Pennsylvania faces the imminent end of Growing Greener a popular initiative that has provided investments in farmland preservation, conservation of open space, restoring and protecting Pennsylvanias streams and rivers, improving and expanding state and local parks, preserving historic resources, and developing new trails and greenways. Unless action is taken in the near future, funds available for Growing Greener will be all but gone within a year, said Andrew Heath, Executive Director of the Renew Growing Greener Coalition. Even with such a comprehensive record of success, the Commonwealth continues to face a variety of pressing problems that threaten our communities, our rich natural and cultural heritage, and our quality of life: -- Pennsylvania is losing three times as much forest, wildlife habitat, farmland and other open spaces to development as we are able to conserve; -- The Commonwealth currently has 16,000 miles of streams that are unsafe for fishing or swimming; -- Abandoned mines scar almost 190,000 acres in 44 counties and are the cause of over 5,000 miles of dead streams; and -- More than 2,000 family farms remain on a statewide waiting list requesting protection from encroaching development so that they may continue Pennsylvanias rich agricultural legacy. Nearly 350 supporting organizations and local governments representing over 7 million people are part of the Renew Growing Greener Coalition. NewsClip: Clearfield Commissioners Support Growing Greener Program -- Paying For Flood Damages: Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee roared through Pennsylvania causing hundreds of millions of dollars in property damage and at least seven deaths in September. It also caused yet another budget problem for the Commonwealth because the state is responsible for paying 25 percent of at least the public infrastructure cost of Federal Disaster Assistance in the 27 counties declared a disaster area. In November the Senate passed a package of eight flood recovery bills sponsored by Senators John Gordner (R-Columbia), Gene Yaw (R-Bradford), Lisa Baker (R-Luzerne), John Blake (D-Lackawanna) and John Yudichak (D-Luzerne). The bills included: -- Senate Bill 1264 (Baker-R-Luzerne) enacting the Flood Relief Act for September 2011 making an appropriation of $20 million for individual assistance;

-- Senate Bill 1266 (Gordner-R-Columbia) authorizing the incurring of $150 million in debt to fund flood damage recovery projects; -- Senate Bill 1267 (Blake-D-Lackawanna) authorizing real estate tax abatement as a result of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee; -- Senate Bill 1268 (Gordner-R-Columbia) authorizing the incurring of debt to repair flood damaged highways; -- Senate Bill 1269 (Yaw-R-Bradford) adoption of capital projects to repair or replace flood damaged highways and bridges; -- Senate Bill 1271 (Yudichak-D-Luzerne) an itemized list of flood damaged highway and bridge repair projects; -- Senate Bill 1297 (Baker-R-Luzerne) establishing a $10 million Small Business Flood Relief Program of 2011; and -- Senate Bill 1323 (Yaw-R-Bradford) establishing the Agriculture Disaster Recovery Program to provide disaster assistance to agricultural operations. The House has yet to act on any specific flood recovery legislation. -- Transportation Funding: The Governor's Transportation Commission issued a report in August detailing a list of recommendations for closing the more than $2 billion funding gap for highways, bridges and transit in the state. Although the Senate and House Transportation Committees have had a series of joint hearings on the report, the Corbett Administration has yet to say what it supports in the recommendations. Everyone had listed transportation funding on their priority list for last Fall, but of course it did not get done. Sen. Jake Corman (R-Centre), Majority Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, put together his own transportation funding package and floated it out for comments in late October. In December, the Senate did pass Senate Bill 344 (Rafferty-R-Montgomery) which would establish Public-Private Partnerships in order to allow the private sector to join with the Commonwealth to provide funding to address transportation deficiencies throughout the state. At nearly the same time, the House Transportation Committee amended and reported out House Bill 3 (Geist-R-Blair) authorizing public-private transportation partnerships doing the same thing. The House version is on the Calendar awaiting a vote when they return. In their latest comments, both Gov. Corbett and Budget Secretary Charles Zogby said the stubbornly weak economy will have a significant impact on the timing of any transportation funding proposal. Translation: Don't expect any fee increases as long as the economy is bad and don't expect any tax increases period. Here's The Status Of Some Individual Environmental Bills During 2011, the Senate and House each passed a number of environmental bills dealing with a variety of issues and sent them to the other chamber. Here's a quick rundown on some of those bills-Now In Senate

Marcellus Shale: Senate Bill 1100 (Scarnati-R-Jefferson) would impose additional environmental protection measures on Marcellus Shale drilling and enact a uniform, statewide drilling fee. The bill is in the House Finance Committee. A now identical bill, House Bill 1950 (Ellis-R-Butler) was sent on its way to a conference committee by the House just before adjourning in December. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available. Gas Well Emergencies: Senate Bill 995 (Baker-R-Luzerne) requiring gas well operators to post certain 911 response information at the entrance to each well site was returned to the Senate for concurrence in House amendments. Infrastructure Replacement: House Bill 1294 (Godshall-R-Montgomery) authorizing the PUC to establish a distribution system improvement charge (DSIC) as an alternative to regular rate cases to recover costs associated with replacing pipelines and other utility infrastructure was passed by the House in October. The bill is in the Senate Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Committee. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. Biofuels: House Bill 807 (Sonney-R-Erie) adding additional measures to enforce the biodiesel mandate is in the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. Bioenergy Mine Reclamation: House Bill 608 (Brooks-R-Crawford) providing for using bioenergy crops for reclamation of abandoned mines is in the Senate Appropriations Committee. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. Small Business Relief: House Bill 1349 (Pickett-R-Susquehanna) requiring the review of regulations for their impact on small businesses and granting pre-enforcement review of regulations by small businesses aggrieved parties is in the Senate Appropriations Committee. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. Engineers/Geologists: House Bill 1054 (Mustio-R-Allegheny) amending the Engineer, Surveyor and Geologists Registration Law further providing for continued professional competency requirements is in the Senate Appropriations Committee. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. Leaf Waste: House Bill 1691 (Godshall-R-Montgomery) further dealing with leaf waste under Act 101 is in the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. Anthracite Mining Reclamation: House Bill 1813 (Tobash-R-Berks) amending the surface mining act to further providing for anthracite reclamation financial guarantees is in the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available.

Conservation Corps: House Bill 1683 (Culver-R-Northumberland) transferring the PA Conservation Corps Program from the Department of Labor and Industry to the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources was Tabled in the Senate. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available. DEP Fund Reporting: House Bill 1416 (Evankovich-R-Armstrong) requiring additional reports on expenditures from the Clean Water, Solid Waste Abatement and Clean Air Fund administered by DEP is in the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. Now In House Marcellus Shale: House Bill 1950 (Ellis-R-Butler) was sent on its way to a conference committee by the House just before adjourning in December. The bill, as amended by the Senate, is identical to Senate Bill 1100 (Scarnati-R-Jefferson). A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available. Drilling On Other State Lands: Senate Bill 367 (D.White-R-Indiana) authorizing the leasing of mineral rights on other state lands and depositing the proceeds in the Environmental Stewardship Fund. The bill is in the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. The bill requires a minimum of 50 percent of revenue received from bonus and lease payments to go to the Environmental Stewardship Fund or the Key '93 Fund. The remaining revenue will go into the General Fund. All money derived from the PA State System of Higher Education land will be deposited into the Key '93 Fund. Gas Lease Payments: Senate Bill 460 (Yaw-R-Bradford) requiring when payment is made for oil or gas production to an interest owner, itemized deduction information will be included on the check stub or an attachment to the form payment. The bill is in the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee. Hazardous Sites Cleanup: Senate Bill 303 (MJ White-R-Venango) further providing for reports under the Hazardous Sites Cleanup Act was Tabled in the House. Air Quality Plans: Senate Bill 304 (MJ White-R-Venango) requiring further public review of state Air Quality Implementation Plans was Tabled in the House. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available. Trail Liability: Senate Bill 469 (Argall-R-Schuylkill) allows walking, jogging, bicycling, exercising and horseback riding on nature trails as a recreational purpose by limiting liability is in the House Tourism and Recreational Development Committee. Transportation Partnerships: Senate Bill 344 (Rafferty-R-Montgomery) authorizing privatepublic partnerships on transportation projects is in the House Transportation Committee. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available. Similar legislation-- House Bill 3 (Geist-RBlair)-- is on the House Calendar for action.

Environmental Bills Signed Into Law In 2011 The following bills related to environmental funding and programs or resolutions requiring action were signed into law or adopted during 2011-General Fund: House Bill 1485 (Adolph-R-Delaware)-- which contains $27.1 billion in spending and a 4.1 percent reduction from the FY 2010-11 General Fund budget. It was signed into law by the Governor and is now Act 1A. A summary and House Fiscal Note and Senate Fiscal Note are available. Natural Gas Well/Coal Spacing: Senate Bill 265 (MJ White-R-Venango) updates the Coal and Gas Resource Coordination Act to establishing adequate and safe spacing between Marcellus Shale natural gas well clusters and workable coal seams was signed into law by Gov. Corbett as Act 2. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available. Fiscal Code: Senate Bill 907 (Browne-R-Lehigh) the Fiscal Code was signed into law by the Governor and is now Act 26. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. The bill includes provisions related to: Filing returns for certain sales and use taxes; Neighborhood Improvement Zone Fund; Financially Distressed Municipalities; Creating a new Keystone Special Development Zone; Vocational Rehabilitation Fund applications; Tobacco Settlement Fund deposits; Transfer from PennVEST to H2O Water Infrastructure Program; and Audits of Race Horse Development Fund. Act 319 Exceptions: House Bill 143 (Major-R-Susquehanna) amending Act 319 to authorize the splitting off of land for noncoal mining was signed into law by the Governor and is now Act 34. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. House Bill 144 (Pickett-R-Bradford) amending Act 319 to authorize taxation of oil and gas well production was signed into law by the Governor and is now Act 35. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. Ag Security Areas: House Bill 562 (Cillen-R-Berks) further providing for the purchase of conservation easements under the Agricultural Area Security Law was signed into law by the Governor and is now Act 44. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available. Recreation Liability: House Bill 870 (Everett-R-Lycoming) further providing for recreation liability for opening land to recreational noncommercial aircraft operations was signed into law by the Governor and is now Act 47. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. Air Penalties: Senate Bill 151 (Pileggi-R-Delaware) sharing Air Pollution Control Act fines with municipalities was signed into law by the Governor and is now Act 57. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available.

Acceptable Data: Senate Bill 263 (Erickson-R-Delaware) requiring data to support rulemakings was signed into law by the Governor and is now Act 60. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available. Keystone Fund Report: Senate Bill 302 (MJ White-R-Venango) further providing for annual reports from the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund was signed into law by the Governor and is now Act 61. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available. Bluff Recession: Senate Bill 791 (Earll-R-Erie) further defining bluff under the Bluff Recession Setback Act was signed into law by the Governor and is now Act 72. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. Pipeline Safety: House Bill 344 (Baker-R-Tioga) authorizing the PUC to regulate pipeline safety. The bill was signed into law by Gov. Corbett as Act 127 A summary and new Senate Fiscal Note are available for the bill. LIHEAP Study: Senate Resolution 165 (Fontana-D-Allegheny) directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study the efficiency of the Low Income Energy Assistance Program was adopted by the Senate. Water Trails: Senate Resolution 143 (Pippy-R-Allegheny) directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to conduct an economic impact study of water trails in the Commonwealth was adopted by the Senate. Did You Know You Can Search 7 Years Of Digests On Any Topic? Did you know you can search 7 years of back issues of the PA Environment Digest on dozens of topics, by county and on any key word you choose. Just click on the search page. Also take advantage of these related services from Crisci Associates-Twitter Instant Updates: On Twitter, sign up to receive instant updates from : PAEnviroDigest. PA Environment Daily: provides daily environmental NewsClips and significant stories and announcements on environmental topics in Pennsylvania of immediate value. Sign up and receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. PA Environment Digest Video Blog: showcases original and published videos from environmental groups and agencies around the state. Sign up to receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS read. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. PA Capitol Digest Blog to get updates every day on Pennsylvania State Government, including NewsClips, coverage of key press conferences and more. Sign up and receive as they are posted

updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule Here are the Senate and House Calendars and Committee meetings showing bills of interest as well as a list of new environmental bills introduced-Session Schedule Here is the Senate and House schedule Senate January 3, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 February 6, 7, 8 Governor's Budget Address: February 7 Budget Hearings: Feb. 13, 14, 15, 16, 21, 22, 23, 27, 28, 29 and March 1 March 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 14, 26, 27, 28 April 2, 3, 30 May 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 21, 22, 23 June 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 House January 3 (non-voting), 17, 18, 23, 24, 25 February 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15 Budget Hearings: Feb. 21, 22, 23, 24, 27, 28, 29, March 1, 2, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9 March 12, 13, 14, 26, 27, 28 April 2, 3, 4, 30 May 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 21, 22, 23 June 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 Bill Calendars House (January 3): House Bill 3 (Geist-R-Blair) authorizing public-private transportation partnerships; House Resolution 438 (Cruz-D-Philadelphia) urging Philadelphia to establish a waste tire removal and disposal program. <> Click Here for full House Bill Calendar. Senate (January 3): Senate Bill 1298 (Smucker-R-Lancaster) allowing the use of preserved agricultural land for agricultural composting. <> Click Here for full Senate Bill Calendar. Committees House: <> Click Here for full House Committee Schedule. Senate: <> Click Here for full Senate Committee Schedule.

Capitol News
Sen. Mary Jo White Announces She Will Not Run For Re-Election Sen. Mary Jo White (R-Venango), Majority Chair of the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, announced Thursday she would not seek re-election in 2012. "Today I am announcing that I will not be a candidate for reelection to the Senate of Pennsylvania in 2012. After a career in the private sector, I never expected to have an opportunity to enter political life," said Sen. White. "It has been an exciting and challenging time, and I would not have missed it for the world. I have worked with talented and dedicated people in and out of government. I sincerely thank the people of the 21st District for their confidence and support." Sen. White has served in the Senate for 14 years and chaired the Senate Environmental Committee for 12 years and has been involved in every major environmental law passed since 1999, including the Environmental Stewardship and Watershed Protection (Growing Greener) Act, the Water Resources Planning Act and has been in the middle of the debate over Marcellus Shale legislation. "Sen. White's leadership and practical approach to environmental issues has fundamentally changed how we think about these issues," said David E. Hess, former Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection. "She is more concerned with whether a program or law will make a real difference in protecting the environment, rather than just a political statement. Her leadership on the enactment of the award-winning Growing Greener Program, in particular, put in place an indispensable tool for reclaiming mines, helping communities restore their watersheds and meeting our Clean Water Act obligations. "Sen. White also worked in concert with Democratic members like Sen. Ray Musto and John Yudichak to develop bipartisan solutions to problems, something that is a rare commodity in today's very partisan world," said Hess. "I look forward to her continued leadership on Marcellus Shale environmental protection and drilling legislation as the General Assembly brings that issue and the renewal of the Growing Greener Program to a conclusion, hopefully early in 2012," Hess added. "Resolving these issues would be a fitting bookend to her dozen years as Chair of the Environmental Committee." She became the first woman elected to Senate Republican Leadership as Caucus Administrator in 2001. Prior to becoming Senator she served as a public defender in Venango County and was Vice President for Environment/Government Affairs for Quaker State Corporation. NewsClip: Sen. Mary Jo White Retiring In 2012

News From Around The State

Governor's Environmental Excellence Award Applications Due January 30

The Department of Environmental Protection is encouraging environmentally-conscious businesses and organizations to apply for the 2012 Governor's Environmental Excellence Award. Applications are due January 30. "This award is a gem because it recognizes environmental innovation, which makes a business or organization more competitive and efficient," DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said. "The winners are creating a brighter and cleaner future for all Pennsylvanians. We want to showcase them as role models and say, 'Thank you.'" The award is open to any Pennsylvania business, government agency, educational institution, individual or farm that has created or participated in the development of a project that promotes environmental stewardship and economic development in the state. Eligible projects include environmental technology innovation, clean energy innovation, pollution prevention and resource efficiency, community revitalization, environmental education or outreach, watershed stewardship, and mine safety, among others. Projects will be evaluated based on applicants' demonstration of how their project will protect the environment, teamwork, public service, environmental education and outreach, pollution prevention, economic impact - including potential job creation, and the use of innovation technology. The project must have been completed between August 1, 2010, and July 31, 2011. While each candidate may submit only one application for a particular project, companies with multiple facilities may submit an application for each facility. Projects that have previously received a Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence are not eligible for this award, though past winners may submit applications for new projects for consideration. Each project will be reviewed by a committee of DEP employees. Recipients of the award will be honored during an evening reception and the winning projects will also be listed on DEP's website. For more information, visit the Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence webpage. Projects should be submitted by email to: RA-EPgovenviroawards@pa.gov. For assistance with completing the application, please call 717-783-8727. Foundation For PA Watersheds Sets Grant Application Deadlines The Foundation for PA Watersheds Tuesday set deadlines for its 2012 grant application rounds: February 13 and August 24. Spring letters of intent are due February 13 with applications due March 12. Decisions will be made at the April 24 Board meeting. Fall letters of intent are due August 24 and applications September 28 and decisions made at the November 13 Board meeting. Click Here for details on the application process. PennVest, DEP Announce First Nutrient Credit Trading Auction For March 21 The PA Infrastructure Investment Authority and the Department of Environmental Protection announced Wednesday they will host an auction March 21 for the sale and purchase of nutrient credits in the Susquehanna and Potomac watersheds.

The auction will be a forward auction, where certified credits will be sold at auction, delivered later and applied to 2012 and future compliance years. The auction will afford wastewater treatment plants in these two watersheds the opportunity to purchase credits as a means of meeting their nitrogen and phosphorus discharge limits for the compliance years. PennVEST is hosting the auctions to encourage the trading of nutrient credits in the Susquehanna and Potomac watersheds. DEPs nutrient credit trading program provides a costeffective means for facilities that are subject to nitrogen and phosphorus limits to meet those limits by working with other facilities, non-point sources or both. PennVEST has chosen Markit Inc. to provide the platform for enrollment and eligibility, auctions and registry services. Markit, a financial information services company, has provided operations and infrastructure services to environmental programs worldwide. PennVEST anticipates charging buyers and sellers 2.5 cents per credit to offset administrative costs. For more information, visit PennVEST's Nutrient Credit Trading Program webpage or call 717-783-6776 (PennVEST) or 717-772-4785 (DEP). York County Receives Grant For Integrated Water Resources Plan The Department of Environmental Protection Wednesday announced it is awarding a $35,000 grant to fund a project in York County that will help integrate water resource planning activities and streamline permitting processes related to water resources management. The project, developed by the York County Planning Commission, will web enable the York County Integrated Water Resources Plan. They will also make it available as a model and template to all Pennsylvania counties. York Countys IWRP is innovative and has the potential to help municipalities and other entities develop projects that will help curb pollution discharged to Pennsylvania waters, DEP Deputy Secretary for Water Management Kelly Heffner said. We are excited to be part of this effort. The York County IWRP offers a variety of tools for users to understand the interconnection of water-related components that are critical to project implementation, including regulations; studies; plans; and their relationship to environmental resource management; land use; citizen health and safety; and other important topics. Specifically, the flow chart component provides a step-by-step guide for public or private entities implementing activities such as the placement of stormwater controls or the design and planning of large construction projects. The IWRP helps provide information on project needs from beginning to end, while ensuring that necessary plans are referenced; appropriate agencies are contacted; pertinent issues are considered; and that the applicant applies for all required permits. Education and outreach are important components of the plan and will be provided to get as many as five counties up and running by the end of 2012. The York County Planning Commission will train interested counties in using the IWRP and can be reached at 717-771-9870 or through their website.

Spotlight

Student Intern Persuades Landowners To Protect Conewago Watershed Justin Kauffman let his love of hunting, fishing and the outdoors guide him to the right Penn State major and to a meaningful internship helping to protect natural resources. The York, Pa., native graduated from the College of Agricultural Sciences in December with a degree in Environmental Resource Management and a minor in Watersheds and Water Resources. He interned with the Conewago Creek Initiative, a collaboration between Penn State Extension and environmental groups aimed at improving water quality in the Conewago Creek watershed. Its goal is to engage local residents and landowners to increase awareness of water-quality issues and encourage adoption of land-management practices that will improve water quality of local streams. That ensures healthy farms, forests and communities, Kauffman said, protecting and maintaining quality of life. And because Conewago Creek is a tributary of the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay, the initiative could provide solutions for improving water quality downstream as well. "I started looking at environmental degrees and found that Penn State had a great program that is well established," he said. "I also was attracted to Penn State because it is a large school, and a lot of my friends and family attended the university. It offers great networking opportunities." Kauffman believes he was the perfect student for this internship because of his previous experience in the area. "I had prior connections with the region and knew its geology and how to deal with its landowners," he said. Kauffman previously had interned with a stream-restoration firm and with the Codorus Creek Improvement Partnership, a nonprofit watershed group, in York County. He worked under the director of the Conewago Creek Initiative on projects in the watershed, which spans Lancaster, Lebanon and Dauphin counties. His responsibilities included everything from project development and management to scheduling meetings and events. "I worked on a monitoring plan to identify indicators and quantify our results so we could show the success of our actions," he explained. Kauffman believes the work with the initiative strengthened his public-communication and time-management skills. "My favorite part of the internship was the freedom I was given to creatively develop new ideas that the organization could use," he said. His post-graduation plans were to enter the work force, but graduate school is an option. Ultimately Kauffman would like to run an environmental consulting firm and give guided hunting and fishing tours on the side. Related Story Conewago Creek Conservation Initiative Preliminary Survey Results

Spotlight

Student Watershed Learning Project, Presentations Highlighted In Butler County The November 12 edition of the Grove City Allied News included an excellent article by Monica Pryts detailing the research work and presentation of findings by students in Dr. Helen Boylan's Advanced Laboratory (Westminster College) course for chemistry and biology majors interested in stream pollution and remediation. The De Sale Phase II passive treatment system in the Slippery Rock Creek Watershed in Butler County which relies on natural processes, such as wetlands, settling ponds and limestone drains to treat the highly acidic, metal-bearing, drainage from abandoned coal mining operations, was selected to provide the "hands-on" learning opportunity. Ten Westminster College chemicstry/biochemistry majors presented water quality results at the November 10 meeting of the Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition at Jennings Environmental Education Center. Their presentations included data on how much of a certain substance such as iron or calcium was found in their samples, which were collected in the field in October and analyzed in the lab at Westminster. Their results confirmed that the De Sale Phase II passive treatment facility is functioning well, and their new data was enlightening, greatly appreciated, and vital to determining the continued performance of the 11-year old system. The work of collecting and analyzing water samples to determine how well a passive treatment system is working often requires manpower and funding not readily available to volunteer-based organizations like the SRWC. Hence the value of the partnership between Westminster College and the SRWC. College students from Westminster have been volunteering with the SRWC for six years. "This is what we call service-learning," said Dr. Helen Boylan and mentioned how thankful she was to show her students "chemistry in action" at passive treatment sites, which have been visited by people from around the world. She also expressed her appreciation of SRWC members Wil Taylor and Cliff Denholm, who "have been instrumental in facilitating this service-learning project." Wil Taylor, JEEC Manager, called the college-Coalition partnership "unique, interesting and rewarding." The SRWC is always looking for more volunteers to help out. Anyone can contribute to the effort! For more information, please contact Cliff Denholm at 724-776-0161 or Wil Taylor at JEEC at 724-794-6011. Thank you to Monica Pryts and Dr. Helen Boylan and a special thank you, to the following students for the positive, encouraging news from our watershed: Stephen Cornich, Daniele Figuroa, Jaimie Daum, Nicole George, Sarah Welsh, Hannah Anderson, Olivia Miller, Gavin Steadman, Mark Biedka and Kelly Cholewa. (Reprinted from The Catalyst newsletter, Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition, January 2012 issue.) DEP, PSATS Offer Stormwater Management-MS4 Training January-March

The Department of Environmental Protection and the PA State Association of Township Supervisors will host a series of three training sessions in January dealing with stormwater management and the MS4 permit process. The courses are part of a sixteen session package of training to be offered through March. The first workshops will be held January 5: Berks County Agricultural Center; January 19: Monroeville, Allegheny County; and January 24: Trevose, Bucks County. For the remainder of the workshop dates and locations and to register, download the workshop brochure.

Spotlight
Penn State Extension: Protecting Your Water Well Wells can be protected from contamination by bacteria and chemicals through good management practices. A sealed well cap prevents insect entry along with any bacteria they are carrying. Hazardous materials can be kept out of the well's recharge area. Water testing verifies the success of these protective practices. A couple married for 61 years brought me a water test report for clarification. They have tested their well periodically for years and for the first time they had a positive total coliform test. They had the usual questions, is that bad? (we havent been sick or anything). And, what should we do about it? This couple is to be commended for their regular habit of water testing. That they tested this fall was wise all the wet weather may have been responsible for the high coliform count. You can read more about the mechanics of that by clicking here: For some ideas about what to do about a positive test, read on. Wells have a watershed rain falling within the watershed percolates to the water table and supplies the well with water. The size of the area depends on the amount of water withdrawn from the well. A typical residential well collects enough water from rain falling inside a circle of 100 ft radius to supply the household. On sloping ground the area must be stretched in the uphill direction. Extending the "sides" of the circle to the crest of the hill defines the watershed area of the well and results in a "hot dog" shape. If you talk to a hydro-geologist about this, they will tell you that you cant exactly define the watershed area for the well unless you monitor the water table around the well while it is in production. That is true, difficult, time consuming, and expensive. The simplistic approach above has the practical advantage of describing an area that you can define and protect from activities that can pollute your well. Why not fuel your lawn mower outside this area and protect your water from a fuel spill? Why not fertilize or spray other parts of your yard first - making sure the application rate is correct - then do the watershed area? Why not make sure the dogs business is conducted outside the watershed area?

This couple also considered the possibility that insects were responsible for the high bacteria count. Earwigs and other insects can crawl under the typical well cap and fall down the well carrying coliform bacteria with them. The couple liked the sanitary well cap shown in the picture and plan to replace the current cap on their well. The cap has three pieces. A top cover, a bottom ring, and a rubber gasket sandwiched between the two. When the top cover and the bottom ring are bolted together the gasket is compressed completely sealing the top of the casing from the insect world. They plan to shock chlorinate their well and do a follow up test to verify that bacteria were eliminated from their water supply. They also plan to discontinue the use of a carbon filter when they learned that such a filter can encourage bacteria growth. When asked about the secret of 61 years of happy marriage, do you think they said high quality drinking water? No! The husband said choose a good wife, and his sweetheart smiled in agreement! Another Link To Useful Information Protecting Wells with Sanitary Well Caps and Grouting Water Supply Testing and Protection (video) (Written by: Thomas McCarty, send email to: trm3@psu.edu, Carlisle, Pa, and reprinted from Penn State Extension Watershed Winds online newsletter.) Local Businesses Contributed More Than $600,000 To Flood Relief Department of Community and Economic Development Secretary C. Alan Walker announced Thursday that Northeastern Pennsylvania businesses will receive Neighborhood Assistance Program tax credits for donating more than $600,000 to support flood relief efforts. Businesses that contributed to the flood recovery effort are proactively helping their local communities recover from the devastation of Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, said Walker. Residents in areas of the northeast that suffered substantial damage to their homes during the fall flooding will receive assistance in making necessary repairs and accessing suitable housing. This support will be a key step in the process to making their lives whole again. Local businesses that contributed to the flood relief effort will receive a tax credit through the Neighborhood Assistance Program Special Program Priorities a program designed to support distressed areas and support neighborhood conservation. The program provides tax credits of up to 75 percent of approved projects, with an annual limit of $500,000. DCED has approved $460,275 in tax credits to local businesses that donated $613,700 to support the flood recovery effort. Three local community development organizations received monetary donations from businesses to assist with flood and disaster recovery efforts. Some of the services these neighborhood organizations will provide include emergency shelter and food for displaced residents, assistance funding necessary mechanical and electrical repairs to homes, and helping residents locate affordable housing. NAP-SPP projects must specifically support one of the following activities: flood and disaster recovery efforts related to Hurricane Irene and/or Tropical Storm Lee; integrated

weatherization and housing rehabilitation; preventing mortgage foreclosure; reduction of blight and abandoned properties; encouraging diversity within communities and Marcellus Shalerelated projects. Sen. Casey Urges Support For Flood Forecasting Systems U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) Tuesday called on the Department of Commerce to include robust funding for flood forecasting systems and weather monitoring technologies in the fiscal year 2012 National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration budget. In the wake of historic flooding from Hurricane Irene and Tropical Storm Lee, the importance of flood forecasting systems like the Susquehanna River Flood Forecasting and Warning System has come into focus due to their critical role in helping communities prepare for and protect against natural disasters. Flood forecasting systems like the Susquehanna River Flood Forecasting and Warning System protect communities, help Pennsylvanians prepare for natural disasters and ultimately save taxpayers money by reducing payouts from the federal government for flood damage, said Senator Casey. We have an obligation to ensure that these systems are in place and operating properly so Pennsylvanians are prepared for the next flood. In the immediate aftermath of the historic flooding from Irene and Lee, Senator Casey urged the Senate Appropriations Committee to increase funding for flood forecasting systems and weather monitoring technologies in NOAA budget in the fiscal 2012 Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations bill. NOAA ultimately received $4.9 billion for fiscal year 2012, which is $306 million over the fiscal year 2011 level. It is now up to the Department of Commerce and NOAA to decide how to distribute the funds. Senator Casey has been a long-time advocate for flood forecasting, having worked to secure Congressionally-directed funding for flood forecasting. Earlier this year Senator Casey sent a letter to Dr. Jane Lubchenco, Administrator of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, urging the agency to fund the Susquehanna River Flood Forecasting and Warning System. Funding for the system, which helps communities located within the Susquehanna River basin prepare for flooding threats, was eliminated when the 2011 budget bill was blocked late last year. The Susquehanna River Basin Commission reports that for every dollar invested by the federal government, the System saves $20 through reduced flood damages and reduced payouts through the federal flood insurance program. NewsClips: Penn State Scandal, Flooding Top PA's News Stories In 2011 Picking Up The Pieces: Christmas After The Flood Flood Victims Settling Into Federal Trailers For Holiday CMU Designed Disaster App Could Speed Assistance Rainfall Adds To Record Year In Lehigh Valley Hurricane Irene Didn't Stir Up Much Trouble In Chesapeake Bay Op-Ed: After The Flood: Family Learns What Really Matters Op-Ed: Weatherman Reflects On 2011: A Case Of Extremes Editorial: Upgrade Flood Forecasting Editorial: Utilities Should Learn Lesson From 2011 Weather

Philadelphia Unveils Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan, Invites Public Comments The Philadelphia Managing Director's Office of Emergency Management invites the public to learn about the Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan being developed for Philadelphia. The plan will be rolled out on January 7 at 10:00 a.m. through noon at the Federation Housing Inc., Rieder House, 10102 Jamison Avenue in Northeast Philadelphia. (Snow Date: January 17, 6:00-8:00 p.m.) Between 10:00 and 10:30 a.m., residents will view a series of poster displays featuring the natural hazards. The Office of Emergency Management will provide a brief presentation about the development of the Hazard Mitigation Plan at 10:30 a.m. After the presentation, residents will have more time to review the poster displays and provide their feedback and concerns about natural hazards in their community. The Natural Hazard Mitigation Plan will address a comprehensive list of natural hazards - droughts, floods, extreme temperatures, earthquakes, wind storms and tornadoes, hurricanes and tropical storms, Nor'easters, and severe winter storms -- that may impact Philadelphia. In addition, the Office of Emergency Management will provide a risk assessment, which includes prioritizing the natural hazards that have the potential of impacting Philadelphia. The purpose of the Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan is to reduce or eliminate long-term risks to human life or property from natural disasters through cost-effective and sustained mitigation actions. The Office of Emergency Management will continue to hold a series of meetings through mid-February around Philadelphia to rollout the various components of the Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan. Future components of the plan will focus on identifying short and long-term mitigation strategies for reducing risks associated with the natural hazards. Deputy Managing Director for Emergency Management Liam O'Keefe encourages the public to the attend meetings. "It's important for us to hear about Philadelphians' concerns about natural hazards that could impact their neighborhoods, so we welcome them to attend any of the upcoming meetings." The public can find out more about upcoming public meetings on the plan and how to submit comments by going to the Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan webpage. Marcellus Shale Industry Statement On Pennsylvania, Federal Pipeline Safety Measures Marcellus Shale Coalition President Kathryn Z. Klaber Tuesday released the following statement on pipeline safety legislation authored by Rep. Matthew Baker (R-Tioga)-- House Bill 344-- and signed last week by Gov. Tom Corbett and a federal pipeline safety bill authored by U.S. Rep. Bill Shuster and sent to the President earlier this month: The American natural gas industry values the safety of our workforce and our communities above all from the initial development of the resource to the delivery of this clean-burning fuel to consumers. Rep. Bakers and Rep. Shusters measures establish important safety standards for Pennsylvanians and all Americans, preserve competitive markets, and further encourage the development of our nations shale gas resources. Passage of these bills is yet another unmistakable sign of the sustainability of the natural gas industry here in Pennsylvania and throughout the United States.

The MSC testified in favor of Rep. Bakers legislation in a Pennsylvania House Consumer Affairs Committee hearing in February. Separately, the U.S. Congress has passed the Pipeline Safety, Regulatory Certainty, and Job Creation Act of 2011 with broad bipartisan support. The legislation has been sent to the White House where it is awaiting the Presidents signature. Penn State Extension Sponsors 4 Marcellus Shale Webinars The Penn State Extension Service will hold a series of webinars on Marcellus Shale-related issues during the first three months of 2012. They include: -- January 19: Seismic Testing: What's It All About?; -- February 16: Transportation Patterns and Impacts From Marcellus Development; -- February 23: Shale Gas Development in Northwest PA (6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.); and -- March 15: Municipality's Roles, Water Use & Protections. Each webinar will run from 1:00 to 2:15 except where noted. To register for any of these webinars, go online to the Upcoming Webinar Schedule webpage or contact Carol Loveland, Penn State Extension energy development and special projects coordinator, at 570-433-3040 or send email to: cal24@psu.edu. For more information generally, visit the Penn State Extension Marcellus Shale webpage. DEP Accepting Host Municipal Inspector Grant Applications Until March 31 The Department of Environmental Protection is now accepting applications for Host Municipal Inspector Grants for municipal and hazardous waste facilities until March 31. (formal notice) Reimbursements are available to any municipality that has a municipal waste landfill, resource recovery facility, or commercial hazardous waste storage, treatment and disposal facility located within its geographic borders to help fund a host municipal inspector. Upon application from any host municipality, the Department shall award reimbursements for authorized costs incurred for the salary and expenses of up to two certified Host Municipality Inspectors. The reimbursement may not exceed 50 percent of the approved costs of salaries and expenses. Reimbursement is available only for Host Municipality Inspectors trained and certified by the Department. Applications are available online and for more information contact the DEP Bureau of Waste Management at 717-787-9870. State Parks Marking New Year With First Day Hikes Across PA Helping visitors ring in 2012 with healthy exercise and a glimpse of natures winter beauty, the Bureau of State Parks will sponsor free, guided hikes in 13 State Parks on New Years Day as part of America's State Parks First Day Hikes initiative in all 50 states. We are excited to join in hosting these hikes as part of this national effort to get people outdoors and into our parks, said Bureau of State Parks Director John Norbeck. First Day Hikes are a great way to cure cabin fever and burn off those extra holiday calories by starting off the New Year with an invigorating walk or hike in one of our beautiful State Parks.

Organized by the National Association of State Park Directors, the nationwide, New Years Day hikes originated more than 20 years ago in Milton, Mass. The program was launched to promote both healthy lifestyles throughout the year and year-round recreation at state parks. State involvement has to grown to the point where, for the first time in 2012, all 50 state park systems will join together to sponsor First Day Hikes. We hope to draw both novices and trail-hardened veterans alike into our state parks in what will become an annual salute to healthy exercise and the winter beauty and serenity of our 120 state parks, Norbeck said. Weather will dictate activities at our state parks on Jan. 1, but different hikes will match different abilities. The accent is on enjoyment. Pennsylvania State Park staff and volunteers will lead the hikes, which are usually about one or two miles, but can be longer depending on the park and its terrain. Details about hike locations, difficulty and length, terrain and tips regarding proper clothing are listed on the Americas State Parks website. What better way to kick off the New Year than with a hike at a state park? said Ruth Coleman, president of the National Association of State Park Directors. Think of it as the start of a new and healthy lifestyle for the whole family. Whether youre staying close to home or traveling, join us at one of Americas State Parks on New Years Day. Pennsylvania hikes will be offered at the following state parks: Delaware Canal, Bucks and Northampton counties; Hickory Run, Carbon County; Hills Creek, Tioga County; Keystone, Westmoreland County; Kings Gap, Cumberland County; Kinzua Bridge, McKean County; Laurel Hill, Somerset County; Moraine, Butler County; Nolde Forest, Berks County; Parker Dam, Clearfield County; Promised Land, Pike County; Shawnee, Bedford County and Sinnemahoning, Cameron County. Additional details can be found on DCNR's Calendar of Events webpage. Reminder: Complete Wissahickon Valley Park Survey Before February 28 The Friends of the Wissahickon in Montgomery and Philadelphia counties encourages park visitors to complete the survey My Park Counts, before its conclusion on February 28. All persons who complete the survey in the park or online will be entered into a drawing in mid 2012 for a free IPAD and one of ten free annual FOW memberships. My Park Counts is the most comprehensive park survey of the Wissahickon Valley ever undertaken. It includes, for the first time, state-of-the-art mechanical counters of park users as well as observational information and personal interviews. For more information or to complete the park survey online, visit the My Park Counts webpage. PCN Announces PA Farm Show Coverage January 7-14 The PA Cable Network will chase away the post-holiday blues with its popular annual weeklong coverage of the PA Farm Show starting January 7 at 12:00 p.m. This year, PCN will air LIVE coverage of the butter sculpture unveiling. The first-hand look at this years creation will air at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, January 5.

Throughout the week, PCN will provide round-the-clock coverage. New to the show are exhibits like the barn display with Penn Ag Industries and the Butterfly House. Both will be featured by PCN as they make their debut at the show this year. These highlights and many more farm show favorites make up the networks extensive coverage of the event which encompasses over 100 hours of network programming in just one week. This is the 19th year that PCN will move its operations from the Camp Hill studios to the Farm Show. During the week, PCN devotes its programming schedule to this agricultural showcase which puts a spotlight on Pennsylvanias largest industry. This years coverage is being underwritten, in part, by the Pennsylvania Pork Producers Council, Penn Ag Industries, Pennsylvania Egg Farmers, Pennsylvania Farm Bureau and the Pennsylvania Treasury 529 College Savings Program. PCN will air taped highlights of various events and displays throughout the week. A schedule of LIVE farm show favorites is available online. Click Here for highlights of this year's PA Farm Show. Brinley Leaving DEP Brownfields Program Denise Brinley, Director of DEP's Bureau of Environmental Cleanup and Brownfields, announced Tuesday she was leaving state government to pursue an opportunity in the private sector. "My time in public service is just about the sunset, as I will be leaving for a position in the private sector starting in early January," said Brinley. "I found that working with those trying to 'make things happen' outside of state government has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my time at DEP."

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. January 6-- EPA Document Your Environment Student Contest January 6-- PA Snowmobile Assn. Trail Improvement Grants January 13-- NRCS Farm Conservation Stewardship Program January 15-- Endless Mountains Region Mini-Grants January 23-- EPA Urban Waters Program January 30-- Ben Franklin Marcellus Shale Innovation Prizes January 30-- NEW. Governor's Environmental Excellence Award January 31-- Lumber Heritage Region Mini-Grants February 3-- PALTA Government Conservation Leadership Awards February 12-- NEW. Foundation for PA Watershed Grants February 15-- Delaware Valley Air & Waste Mgmt. Assn. Student Scholarships February 17-- PA Legislative Black Caucus Student Scholarships February 16-- County Agricultural Land Conservation Grants

February 24-- PA Trout In The Classroom Grants February 29-- EPA Environmental Justice Small Grants March 1-- Erie TreeVitalize Grants March 31-- NEW. DEP Host Municipal Inspector Grants April 4-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants March 1-- Keystone Historic Preservation Project and Construction Grants August 1-- PA Snowmobile Assn. Trail Improvement Grants August 24-- NEW. Foundation for PA Watershed Grants September 1-- Erie TreeVitalize Grants -- Visit the DEP Grants and Loan Programs webpage for more ideas on how to get financial assistance for environmental projects.

Budget/Quick Clips
Here's a selection of NewClips on environmental topics from around the state-State Bureau Of Forestry Offers Christmas Tree Recycling Budget Big Issues Elude GOP Legislature Legislature Pushes Many High-Profile Issues Into 2012 2011 PA Politics In Review Blog: Top Political Stories: Argument Over Marcellus Shale Shale Gas Industry Hoping For Statewide Regs In 2012 West Virginia's New Marcellus Shale Law Op-Ed: Legislators Would Be Wise To Start Over On Marcellus Bill Clearfield Commissioners Support Growing Greener Program Editorial: Attend To Revenue Side Of State Budget Coalition Backs Committee's Transportation Funding Ideas Blog: Top Political Stories: No. 5 Transportation Funding Post-Gazette Mining Series Coal's Reign In Western PA Has Long History - Part 1 Mining Issues In Shadow Of Shale - Part 2 New Technology Makes Coal Mines Safer - Part 3 Region Hosts Cutting-Edge Coal Research - Part 4 Brownsville Barge Plant Investing In Its Future - Part 5 Draeger Has Name Recognition In Mining Industry - Part 6 New Fuel For Coal vs. Gas Debate King Coal Makes Comeback As Home Fuel PA Power Plant To Convert To Natural Gas PA Coal-Fired Plants Looking To Run On Gas Other Sen. Mary Jo White Retiring In 2012

PennFuture's Leaders Ran Afoul Of Political Opponents New Jersey Strives To Regain Its Recycling Reputation Homewood Teens Focus On Green Movement PUC Issues New Rules On Gas Leak Monitoring More NFG, Penelec Customers Without Heat This Year Editorial: Obama's EPA Chooses Health Over Pollution Editorial: Cleaner Air For Christmas Editorial: Clear The Air With New Emission Regulations Column: More PA Enviro-Insanity? C'mon Man! Essroc Cement Agrees To $33 Million In Pollution Controls Midstate College Offers Electrical Engineering Lab Relentless Pump Prices A Pain In Pocket Borough Preps For Billboard Battle Op-Ed: Urban Farms Offer Way To Dig Gardening Rail Trail Group Balances Future In Pipeline Rights Of Way Grants Give A Boost To Back Mountain Trail Grant To Help Susquehanna Trail Susquehanna Greenway Creates 95-Mile Driving Tour $250K Grant Goes To Susquehanna Heritage Group Small Landscapes Can Make A Positive Difference Robins More Than Signs Of Spring Deer Once Again The Outdoors Story Of The Year

Marcellus Shale NewsClips

Here are NewsClips on topics related to Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling--Big Issues Elude GOP Legislature Legislature Pushes Many High-Profile Issues Into 2012 2011 PA Politics In Review Blog: Top Political Stories: Argument Over Marcellus Shale Shale Gas Industry Hoping For Statewide Regs In 2012 Op-Ed: Legislators Would Be Wise To Start Over On Marcellus Bill EPA: Dimock Water Supplies Merit Further Consideration Lycoming Twp Official Drops Trees To Block Drilling Company Small Town Takes On Gas Driller Over Road Repairs Op-Ed: Keep Drilling Out Of State Parks Range Resources Appeals South Fayette Zoning Laws Final Shale Forum Brings Discussion To Johnstown Op-Ed: Shale Gas? Credit The Feds Too Fracking Or Facing? Six StateImpact Marcellus Reports Worth Another Listen Penn State Faculty Member Captures Faces Of Marcellus Shale Penn State DuBois Partners For Marcellus Shale Education

Delaware River Master Parts The Water Truck Collision Spills Marcellus Drilling Mud Into Lycoming Creek Rail Trail Group Balances Future In Pipeline Rights Of Way Gas Boom Is Sweet Music To Sand Supplier PA Power Plant To Convert To Natural Gas PA Coal-Fired Plants Looking To Run On Gas LaFarge Receives $300,000 Grant To Convert To Gas Ethane Cracking Plant In Western PA Could Create Jobs Butler County Cranks Up Gas Processing Plant Construction Rex Energy Gets OK For Cryogenic Gas Plant In Butler Financial/Other States West Virginia's New Marcellus Shale Law Chesapeake Energy To Sell $865 Million In Pipelines Oklahoma Firm Seeks Pipeline Across Southern PA Epsilon Energy Provides Update On PA Marcellus Production With Gas Drilling Next Door, New York Gets Economic Lift

Flooding/Watershed NewsClips
Here are NewsClips on watershed topics from around the state-Flooding Penn State Scandal, Flooding Top PA's News Stories In 2011 Picking Up The Pieces: Christmas After The Flood Flood Victims Settling Into Federal Trailers For Holiday CMU Designed Disaster App Could Speed Assistance Rainfall Adds To Record Year In Lehigh Valley Editorial: Upgrade Flood Forecasting Editorial: Utilities Should Learn Lesson From 2011 Weather Op-Ed: After The Flood: Family Learns What Really Matters Op-Ed: Weatherman Reflects On 2011: A Case Of Extremes Hurricane Irene Didn't Stir Up Much Trouble In Chesapeake Bay Other Watershed NewsClips Foundation For PA Watersheds Grant Application Schedule Environmental Lawsuits Could Hit U.S. Agriculture In 2012

Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits

The State Registration Board for Professional Engineers, Land Surveyors and Geologists published notice of proposed regulations covering certification of geologists-in-training and other regulation changes affecting these professions. (PA Bulletin page 6975) The Public Utility Commission published notice of its order implementing standards for participation in demand side management resources technical manual under the Alternative

Energy Portfolio Standards Act. Pennsylvania Bulletin - December 31, 2011 Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage DEP Regulatory Agenda - DEP webpage

Technical Guidance & Permits

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice of final technical guidance on impoundments, stockpiles and coal refuse disposal areas. Final: DEP ID: 563-2112-656. LinersImpoundments, Stockpiles, and Coal Refuse Disposal Areas. Pages 1 and 2 of the previously listed technical guidance document referenced 25 Pa. Code Chapters 101, 101.3 and 101.4, which were moved to Chapters 91, 91.34 and 91.35 in 2000. These references have been changed to reflect this update of 25 Pa. Code. Contact: Questions regarding this technical guidance document should be directed to Michele Hamlin at 717-787-8320 or mhamlin@pa.gov. Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines - DEP webpage Copies Of Draft Technical Guidance - DEP webpage Copies of Final Technical Guidance - DEP webpage

Calendar Of Events
Upcoming legislative meetings, conferences, workshops, plus links to other online calendars. Meetings are in Harrisburg unless otherwise noted. NEW means new from last week. Go to the online Calendar webpage. Click on Agenda Released on calendar entries to see the NEW meeting agendas published this week. Note: The Department of Environmental Protection published notice of its advisory committee and board schedule for 2012. Click Here for the complete list. January 3-- NEW. General Assembly's First Day of Session 2012. Noon. January 5-- Agenda Released. DEP Mining and Reclamation Advisory Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.

January 5-- Agenda Released. Chesapeake Bay Commission meeting. Annapolis, MD. 9:30. January 10-- House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee holds a hearing on closings of Sunoco and ConocoPhillips refineries in Southeast PA. Room 140. 1:30. January 10-- NEW. House Consumer Affairs Committee holds a hearing on House Bill 1855 (Miller-R-York) setting standards for water well construction. Room G-50 Irvis Building. 1:00. January 11-- House Consumer Affairs Committee holds a hearing on House Bill 1580 (Ross-RChester) increasing the solar share in the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards. Room 140. 10:00. January 12-- DEP Southwest Regional Office Roundtable meeting. DEP Southwest Regional Office, Waterfront A & B, 500 Waterfront Dr. 10:30. Contact Holly Cairns at 412-442-4116 or send email to: hcairns@pa.gov. (formal notice) January 17-- CANCELED. Environmental Quality Board meeting. Next scheduled meeting is February 21. (formal notice) January 23-- Environmental Issues Forum, Joint Legislative Air and Water Pollution Control and Conservation Committee featuring a discussion of Pennsylvania's Sustainable Forestry Initiative. Room G-50 Irvis Building. Noon. March 26-- Environmental Issues Forum, Joint Legislative Air and Water Pollution Control and Conservation Committee featuring a presentation by DCNR Secretary Richard Allan. (Location to be determined) Noon. DEP Calendar of Events Note: The Environmental Education Workshop Calendar is no longer available from the PA Center for Environmental Education because funding for the Center was eliminated in the FY 2011-12 state budget. The PCEE website was also shutdown, but some content was moved to the PA Association of Environmental Educators' website. Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule

You can watch the Senate Floor Session and House Floor Session live online.

Stories Invited
Send your stories, photos and videos about your project, environmental issues or programs for publication in the PA Environment Digest to: DHess@CrisciAssociates.com.

PA Environment Digest is edited by David E. Hess, former Secretary Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and is published as a service to the clients of Crisci Associates, a Harrisburg-based government and public affairs firm whose clients include Fortune 500 companies and non-profit organizations. For more information on Crisci Associates, call 717-234-1716. PA Environment Digest was the winner of the PA Association of Environmental Educators' 2009 Business Partner of the Year Award.

Supporting Member PA Outdoor Writers Assn./PA Trout Unlimited

PA Environment Digest is a supporting member of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association, Pennsylvania Council Trout Unlimited and the Doc Fritchey Chapter Trout Unlimited.