PaEnvironmentDigest Feb. 10, 2014

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 February 10, 2014

Corbett Budget: $45M For State Parks, Forests, More Gas Leasing, DEP Staff Cut Gov. Tom Corbett Tuesday presented his 2014-15 budget to the General Assembly, telling lawmakers that the $29.4 billion spending plan continues to drive the values of strategic investment and prudent fiscal management to address the Commonwealth‘s core funding needs. His 2014-15 budget proposal includes the Enhance Penn‘s Woods initiative announced Saturday, a 2-year, more than $200 million effort to repair and upgrade State Parks and State Forests through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources The program includes $45 million in additional monies from interest on the Growing Greener II bond funds and existing funding from the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund, Environmental Stewardship (Growing Greener) Fund and the Dirt and Gravel Road Program. The budget proposal also relies on additional leasing of natural gas rights in State Forests to generate $75 million more in revenue to DCNR‘s Oil and Gas Lease Fund. The Governor‘s Budget Secretary Charles Zogby said additional leasing would be near existing drilling sites and gas companies would not be allowed to construct new well pads. Secretary Zogby said Gov. Corbett would be issuing a new Executive Order to replace the Executive Order Gov. Rendell issued in 2010 a few days before the gubernatorial election imposing a moratorium on leasing additional State Forest land. The Rendell Administration leased 137,000 acres of State Forest land for Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling. No reduction in DCNR‘s complement was proposed The Governor‘s budget proposes to reduce the complement of the Department of Environmental by another 66 positions to 2,663. Over the last 12 years, DEP‘s complement has been reduced by 548 positions since FY 2002-03 or 17 percent. The Governor proposed a $3.1 million increase in the Watershed Protection and Restoration funding allocation from the Environmental Stewardship (Growing Greener) Fund as well as a $1 million reduction from the same Fund for abandoned mine reclamation. Other highlights of the proposed budget include-Department of Environmental Protection: $10 million increase, 7.8 percent, in General Fund support, from $127.6 million to $137.6 million. -- $24 million increase in Dirt and Gravel Road funding from Transportation Funding Plan -- $2.5 million Conservation Districts, no change -- $3.1 million increase in Growing Greener funding for Watershed Protection & Restoration -- $1 million reduction in Growing Greener funding for Abandoned Mine Reclamation -- $200,000 cut in Sewage Facilities Planning Grants, zeroed out -- $500,000 cut in Delaware River Basin Commission, 53.6 percent

-- $500,000 cut to Household Hazardous Waste Program, 50 percent -- $43.8 million in Environmental Stewardship Funds going to pay Growing Greener II bond debt service. Context: DEP General Fund budget in FY 2002-03 was $245.6 million, now reduced to $139.9 million, and its full-time salaried staff complement was 3,211, now reduced to 2,663 over the last 13 years. Total funding from all sources in FY 2002-03 was $728.3 million, in FY 2014-15 $689.3 million. Department of Conservation and Natural Resources: $2.9 million decrease, 9.9 percent, in General Fund support from $30 million to $27 million. $117.4 million in funding for general agency operation is again being made up from the Oil and Gas Fund. -- $6 million increase in Dirt and Gravel Roads funding from Transportation Funding Plan -- $2.2 million cut from Heritage Parks, zeroed out Context: DCNR General Fund budget in FY 2002-03 was $108.8 million, now reduced to $27 million. DCNR's total budget in FY 2002-03 from all sources was $322.9 million, in FY 2014-15 $326.1 million. Agency complement is now 1,382, in FY 2002-03 it was 1,391. Department of Agriculture: $2 million decrease in General Government Operations and other cuts resulting in a 0.1 percent increase in General Fund support to $123.8 million. -- $10 million Resource Enhancement and Protection Farm Conservation Tax Credit, no change -- $869,000 Conservation Districts, no change -- $2.7 million Nutrient Management Fund, no change -- $787,000 cut in Agricultural Research, zeroed out -- $350,000 cut in Hardwoods Research & Promotion, zeroed out Context: Agriculture‘s General Fund budget in FY 2002-03 was $76.1 million million, in FY 2014-15 budget is $123.8 million. Total funding from all sources in FY 2002-03 was $213.8 million and in FY 2014-15 is $313.3 million. There was no decrease in Agriculture‘s complement proposed for FY 2014-15. Marcellus Shale Legacy Fund: Total allocation from the Fund will be reduced to $113.9 million from $186.5 million last year. -- County Grants - $11.8 million, $11.7 million last year -- Commonwealth Financing Authority - $15.7 million, $44.4 million last year -- Commonwealth Financing Authority H2O Program - $9.8 million, $27.7 million last year -- Community & Economic Development - Zeroed out, $7.4 million last year -- Environmental Protection - Zeroed out, $19.9 million last year -- PennVEST - $9.8 million, $27.7 million last year -- Highway Bridge Improvement - $19.7 million, $19.5 million last year -- Environmental Stewardship (Growing Greener) Fund - $42.8 million, $27.8 million last year -- Hazardous Sites Cleanup Fund - $3.9 million, zero last year Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund: Total allocation from the Fund to DCNR will be reduced to $51.3 million, from $112.2 million last year. State System Of Higher Education -- PA Center for Environmental Education - zeroed out for 4rd year a $368,000 cut -- McKeever Environmental Center - zeroed out for 5th year a $213,000 cut Environmental Hearing Board: 3.2 percent increase to $2.2 million from $2.1 million Click Here for links to all the Governor‘s budget documents. Budget Hearings Next week the General Assembly will begin public hearings on Gov. Corbett‘s budget

request. The hearings on DCNR‘s budget will be held February 19 in the Senate and February 25 in the House. The hearings on DEP‘s budget will both be held on February 18 in the Senate and February 19 House. NewsClips: Corbett Budget Expands Drilling In State Forests From Existing Well Pads Corbett Hopes To Raise $75M Thru Gas Leases In State Forests Corbett Budget Reopens Drilling Issue Corbett Discusses State Park, Forest Drilling Proposal Corbett To OK Gas Extraction From Under State Land Corbett Wants To Allow More Gas Drilling In State Forests Corbett Promises $45 Million For State Parks, Forests Corbett Plan To Increase Gas Leasing Has Advocates Worried Agriculture Programs Brace For Hit Under Corbett Budget Corbett Proposes DRBC Budget Cut As Drilling Stalemate Continues CBF Urges Corbett To Include Clean Water Investments In Budget PEC Supports Restoration Of DCNR Oil & Gas Fund PA Quickly Finds Ways To Spend Shale Gas Revenues Editorial: Corbett Should Ignore Lure Of Easy Money From Drilling Governor Proposes Enhanced Penn’s Woods Initiative, $45M For State Parks, Forests Gov. Corbett‘s proposed FY 2014-15 budget includes the Enhance Penn‘s Woods initiative, a 2year, more than $200 million effort to repair and upgrade State Parks and State Forests through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources The program includes $45 million in additional monies from interest on the Growing Greener II bond funds and existing funding from the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund, Environmental Stewardship (Growing Greener) Fund and the Dirt and Gravel Road Program. ―There are so many ways to enjoy Pennsylvania‘s great outdoors. With such a variety of unique activities – world class fishing, hunting, hiking and one of my favorites, kayaking – there‘s something for everyone in the Keystone State,‖ Corbett said. ―As a strategic investment in our future, we‘ll make the largest, short-term investment in state park and forest history to Enhance Penn‘s Woods.‖ The initiative was unveiled during a tour of the Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, where the Governor also purchased his fishing license. ―The hunters, anglers, campers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts of all types not only enjoy our natural treasures in Pennsylvania, but they also spend money in our local communities,‖ Corbett said. ―This short-term investment will make sure we enjoy the long-term benefits of a first class park and forest system such as healthy outdoor recreation, protecting our natural resources and attracting residents, tourists and private investment to communities around the state.‖ The Governor was joined for the announcement by DCNR Secretary Ellen Ferretti; Fish and Boat Commission Executive Director John Arway; and families with children who participate in hunting and fishing. ―The vision of great conservation leaders in Pennsylvania‘s history has resulted in the

system of state parks and forests that Pennsylvanians enjoy and love today,‖ Ferretti said. ―Our modern challenge is caring for our public lands, focusing on improvements for aging facilities; well-managed forests; and high management standards for our award-winning state parks. ―DCNR is grateful for Gov. Corbett‘s commitment to honor the legacy of our state parks and forests. Our staff works tirelessly each day to protect these resources and ensure our visitors have a meaningful and enjoyable experience. This will allow us to be better stewards of the parks and forested entrusted to us,‖ Ferretti said. The department estimates about 200 projects will be covered under the 2-year investment, including: -- Improvements to some of the most visited and unique parks in the system including a visitor center at Kinzua Bridge State Park, McKean County; new park office at Cook Forest State Park, Clarion County; and completion of the visitor center at Ohiopyle State Park, Fayette County; Dam repair at Sinnemahoning State Park, Cameron County; Marsh Creek State Park, Chester County; Chapman State Park, Warren County; Pymatuning State Park, Crawford County; and Gouldsboro State Park, Monroe County; -- New opportunities for interaction with the public at offices in the Buchanan State Forest, Fulton County, and Gallitzin State Forest, Cambria and Indiana counties; -- Repairs to fire towers in state forests statewide; -- Adding 20,000 acres to the state forest system; -- Twelve campground improvement projects including at Gifford Pinchot, Prince Gallitzin, Hickory Run, Bald Eagle, Parker Dam, Laurel Hill, Hills Creek, Black Moshannon and Caledonia state parks; -- More than 50 public access improvement projects to roads, bridges and trails; -- Seventeen state park drinking water or wastewater system projects; and -- Continuing DCNR‘s track record of green buildings and sustainable features. Enhance Penn‘s Woods covers the current fiscal year 2013-14, and fiscal year 2014-15. The additional special allocation of $45 million will be from premiums and interest on Growing Greener II bond funds. For each fiscal year, the infrastructure design and construction projects are expected to support almost 1,000 jobs in the engineering, architecture, landscape design, construction and other fields. In addition to announcing Enhance Penn‘s Woods, Gov. Corbett also unveiled the Pennsylvania Outdoor Adventure Guide. Structured for outdoor enthusiasts, the 80-page guide highlights an array of recreation opportunities across the Commonwealth, and conveniently categorizes these adventures and activities. Whether it‘s launching a kayak in more than 86,000 miles of the state‘s wild rivers and scenic streams or sliding down challenging runs at one of Pennsylvania‘s 21 ski resorts, the guide outlines and inspires outdoor recreation of every form. ―Pennsylvania has 17 million acres of forest, attracting hikers, birdwatchers, hunters, anglers and other outdoor enthusiasts from far and wide. Our Outdoor Adventure Guide highlights the many unique tourism destinations that beckon visitors to Pennsylvania‘s natural year-round playground.‖ This first-of-its-kind guide represents the beginning of a unique collaboration among the Department of Community and Economic Development, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Game Commission, and the Fish & Boat Commission.

Pennsylvania has 120 state parks totaling almost 300,000 acres, and 2.2 million acres in 20 state forest districts. Visitors to Pennsylvania state parks generate more than a billion dollars in economic activity in nearby communities annually, supporting almost 13,000 jobs. NewsClips: Corbett Budget Expands Drilling In State Forests From Existing Well Pads Corbett Hopes To Raise $75M Thru Gas Leases In State Forests Corbett Budget Reopens Drilling Issue Corbett Discusses State Park, Forest Drilling Proposal Corbett To OK Gas Extraction From Under State Land Corbett Wants To Allow More Gas Drilling In State Forests Corbett Promises $45 Million For State Parks, Forests Corbett Plan To Increase Gas Leasing Has Advocates Worried Agriculture Programs Brace For Hit Under Corbett Budget Corbett Proposes DRBC Budget Cut As Drilling Stalemate Continues CBF Urges Corbett To Include Clean Water Investments In Budget PEC Supports Restoration Of DCNR Oil & Gas Fund PA Quickly Finds Ways To Spend Shale Gas Revenues Editorial: Corbett Should Ignore Lure Of Easy Money From Drilling PEC: Premature To Lift Gas Leasing Moratorium Before A Thorough Public Discussion The PA Environmental Council sent a letter to DCNR Secretary Ellen Ferretti Thursday saying it would be premature for DCNR and the Governor to proceed with the proposal to lease additional DCNR land for natural gas drilling until significant questions about the environmental impact of existing drilling on DCNR land is finished and the best management practices employed to limit those impacts in the leasing plan are discussed with the public and stakeholders. PEC also said any revenue from additional leasing should remain in the Oil and Gas Fund for DCNR‘s use and should not be used to balance the state budget as has been done since 2009. The budget proposal Gov. Corbett announced Tuesday calls for lifting the moratorium on leasing additional DCNR land for natural gas development to generate $75 million more in revenue for DCNR‘s Oil and Gas Lease Fund. The Governor‘s Budget Secretary Charles Zogby said additional leasing would be near existing drilling sites and gas companies would not be allowed to construct new well pads. Secretary Zogby said Gov. Corbett would be issuing a new Executive Order to replace the Executive Order Gov. Rendell issued in 2010 a few days before the gubernatorial election imposing a moratorium on leasing additional State Forest land. The Rendell Administration leased 137,000 acres of State Forest land for Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling before the moratorium was put in place. ―We believe that it is premature for DCNR and the Governor to proceed with this proposal without substantive deliberation, and without allowing stakeholders to evaluate the impacts analysis being prepared by DCNR of current natural gas operations on state land,‖ said Davitt Woodwell, Executive Vice President of PEC. ―We do not have a comprehensive understanding of impacts from current operations on state land, and have no assurance of which, if any, best management practices are being employed by operators on state land..‖ Woodwell noted as a member of the Governor‘s Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission, PEC agreed with its recommendations that future leasing would be done with no additional

surface impacts to state lands. ―However, while there may be limited instances where leasing of subsurface rights to extend existing well operations located outside of state lands can accomplish minimal impacts to public resources, the decision to proceed should be made only after open and informed consideration,‖ Woodwell explained. He said DCNR formed the Natural Gas Advisory Committee to provide advice and expertise to the agency on natural gas management on their lands and the proposal should have been examined by the Committee. ―Given all this, we ask that you suspend pursuance of the Executive Order until this deliberation can take place,‖ said Woodwell. A copy of the letter is available online. For more information, visit PEC‘s Marcellus Shale webpage. Budget Hearings Next week the General Assembly will begin public hearings on Gov. Corbett‘s budget request. The hearing on DCNR‘s budget will be held February 19 in the Senate and February 25 in the House. NewsClips: Corbett Budget Expands Drilling In State Forests From Existing Well Pads Corbett Hopes To Raise $75M Thru Gas Leases In State Forests Corbett Budget Reopens Drilling Issue Corbett Discusses State Park, Forest Drilling Proposal Corbett To OK Gas Extraction From Under State Land Corbett Wants To Allow More Gas Drilling In State Forests Corbett Promises $45 Million For State Parks, Forests Corbett Plan To Increase Gas Leasing Has Advocates Worried Agriculture Programs Brace For Hit Under Corbett Budget Corbett Proposes DRBC Budget Cut As Drilling Stalemate Continues CBF Urges Corbett To Include Clean Water Investments In Budget PEC Supports Restoration Of DCNR Oil & Gas Fund PA Quickly Finds Ways To Spend Shale Gas Revenues Editorial: Corbett Should Ignore Lure Of Easy Money From Drilling PennFuture: Cost Of Lifting State Forest Gas Leasing Moratorium Unknown The 2014-2015 budget proposed Tuesday by Gov. Tom Corbett factors in $75 million in drilling revenue to be accrued via the lifting of a moratorium on further leasing of state park and forest lands for gas development. "This will place more and more of the budget burden on the backs of public lands," said Cindy Dunn, president and chief executive officer of PennFuture. "In announcing that he seeks to lift a three-year-old moratorium to expand leasing of public lands for gas development, the governor reveals the short-sighted nature of his stewardship of our natural resources by trading more long-term harm to our state parks and forests in return for short-term economic gain." "We are increasingly concerned that absent a healthy economy and responsible drilling tax on natural gas development, Gov. Corbett is making the general fund reliant on the rapid exploitation of resources that he should, instead, be conserving for this and future generations," continued Dunn.

Also of concern is the diversion of $117.5 million from the state's Oil and Gas Lease Fund (OGLF) as operational budget monies for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), the largest replacement of general funds with oil and gas lease funds in the DCNR budget to date. The OGLF was originally designated for conservation, recreation and flood control programs in state parks and forests. "The paradox of funding the state's flagship conservation agency with funds from nonrenewable resources is inescapable," said Dunn. The Governor‘s Budget Secretary Charles Zogby said additional leasing would be near existing drilling sites and gas companies would not be allowed to construct new well pads. Secretary Zogby also said Gov. Corbett would be issuing a new Executive Order to replace the Executive Order Gov. Rendell issued in 2010 a few days before the gubernatorial election imposing a moratorium on leasing additional State Forest land. The Rendell Administration leased 137,000 acres of State Forest land for Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling. NewsClips: Corbett Budget Expands Drilling In State Forests From Existing Well Pads Corbett Hopes To Raise $75M Thru Gas Leases In State Forests Corbett Budget Reopens Drilling Issue Corbett Discusses State Park, Forest Drilling Proposal Corbett To OK Gas Extraction From Under State Land Corbett Wants To Allow More Gas Drilling In State Forests Corbett Promises $45 Million For State Parks, Forests Corbett Plan To Increase Gas Leasing Has Advocates Worried Agriculture Programs Brace For Hit Under Corbett Budget Corbett Proposes DRBC Budget Cut As Drilling Stalemate Continues CBF Urges Corbett To Include Clean Water Investments In Budget PEC Supports Restoration Of DCNR Oil & Gas Fund PA Quickly Finds Ways To Spend Shale Gas Revenues Editorial: Corbett Should Ignore Lure Of Easy Money From Drilling CBF-PA Responds To Governor’s Budget Proposal The Chesapeake Bay Foundation-PA Friday issued the following statement from Pennsylvania Executive Director Harry Campbell in response to Gov. Corbett‘s 2014-15 budget proposal: ―The Chesapeake Bay Foundation is pleased that Gov. Corbett‘s budget proposal emphasizes investments in clean water and a healthy environment by ensuring that important conservation programs continue to be fully funded. Currently there are roughly 19,000 miles of rivers and streams that fail to meet clean water standards. And while notable progress has been made, we can and must do better. Continued investment in the conservation programs that improve water quality is critical, and will create jobs and stimulate local economies. ―Funding for one such program, Growing Greener, remains intact. Growing Greener grants are needed for on-the-ground efforts to help achieve the Chesapeake Bay Blueprint and to reduce pollution in our local rivers and streams. ―The Growing Greener program has played a vital role in improving water quality in the Commonwealth for well over a decade now. The importance of this funding source cannot be over-stated, and the clean water successes that have resulted from the program are to be celebrated.

―Additionally, we are optimistic to see that the Governor proposes an increase of $31.8 million into funding for the Department of Environmental Protection management programs. ―CBF will, over the next few months be working with the Governor and legislature to ensure that the Commonwealth continues to make the needed investments in local rivers and streams, and in conservation programs. Reducing pollution and restoring water quality will provide benefits today, and is an important legacy to leave for future generations.‖ NewsClips: 21 States, 8 Counties Challenge Chesapeake Bay Standards 21 States Join Fight To Halt Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Lancaster County Joins Fights EPA In Pollution Limits On Farmers CBF Urges Corbett To Include Clean Water Investments In Budget Rooftop Garden In Works At Art Works Hatfield Basin Project Moves Ahead With In-House Work Alcosan Working To Address EPA Concerns About Sewer Plan Growing Greener Coalition Expresses Cautious Optimism Over Corbett Budget Proposal The PA Growing Greener Coalition, the largest coalition of conservation, recreation and preservation organizations in the Commonwealth, Tuesday issued the following statement from Executive Director Andrew Heath in response to Gov. Corbett‘s 2014-15 budget proposal: ―The Pennsylvania Growing Greener Coalition is grateful that the Governor recognizes the importance of maintaining the programs that protect and restore our drinking water, preserve our farms and open spaces, and provide recreational opportunities. "We appreciate that the Governor‘s proposed budget appears to leave intact funding for critical programs such as Growing Greener, Keystone ‘93 and Historic and Agriculture Preservation. ―However, the Coalition has grave concerns about the elimination of funding for the Heritage Areas Program, which has successfully conserved and enhanced the state‘s natural resources and promoted tourism development for nearly 25 years. ―The Legislature rightly rescued this important program last year, and we are surprised and disappointed that it is slated for the chopping block again this year. ―The Coalition looks forward to working with the Corbett Administration and members of the House and Senate to restore funding for the Heritage Areas Program, which creates jobs and brings business to the region, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in state revenues.‖ For more information, visit the PA Growing Greener Coalition website. County Conservation Districts Thank Governor For His Investment The PA Association of County Conservation Districts Tuesday thanked Gov. Corbett for his investment of $3.3 million from the General Fund to support county conservation districts. ―On behalf of the state‘s conservation districts, we sincerely thank Gov. Corbett and his administration for recognizing the contribution we make in supporting local agriculture, the economy and infrastructure improvement projects for our residents,‖ said Brandi HunterDavenport, PACD Director of Education. ―We knew this was going to be a tough budget year and appreciate the administration‘s stance, seeing the expertise and value we bring to enhancing quality of life measures throughout the commonwealth.‖

Conservation districts implement several programs on behalf of the state. One of the most notable is the Erosion and Sediment Control (Chapter 102 or NPDES [National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System] Permit) Program. ―In 2012, conservation districts conducted more than 11,000 Chapter 102 plan reviews, including the initial review and follow up, their workload accounting for more than 57,000 technical assistance events on behalf of the state Department of Environmental Protection,‖ noted Hunter-Davenport. ―In addition to this outreach, districts also conduct permitting for PennDOT projects at no charge to their department. These two aspects combined resulted in a loss of an estimated $3.3 million to the districts‘ bottom lines. Now, with the line items included in the state budget at $3.3 million, we will be able to continue tackling these permit workloads, resulting in more efficiency for current infrastructure projects as well as those to be undertaken with the influx of work coming as a result of the comprehensive transportation bill and PennDOT‘s Public-Private Transportation Partnership (P3) legislation,‖ added Hunter-Davenport. Every day, conservation districts are on the front lines of conservation efforts throughout the commonwealth. They implement projects and environmental programs to preserve their individual pockets of Pennsylvania. Collectively, these locally-led efforts support the wise use of the state‘s natural resources. For more information, visit the PACD website. Add Us To Your Google+ Circle PA Environment Digest now has a Google+ Circle called Green Works In PA. Just go to your Google+ page and search for [email protected], the email for the Digest Editor David Hess, and let us join your Circle. Google+ now combines all the news you now get through the PA Environment Digest, Weekly, Blog, Twitter and Video sites into one resource. You‘ll receive as-it-happens postings on Pennsylvania environmental news, daily NewsClips and links to the weekly Digest and videos. Also take advantage of these related services from Crisci Associates-PA Environment Digest Twitter Feed: On Twitter, sign up to receive instant updates from: PAEnviroDigest. PA Environment Daily Blog: provides daily environmental NewsClips and significant stories and announcements on environmental topics in Pennsylvania of immediate value. Sign up and receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. PA Capitol Digest Daily Blog to get updates every day on Pennsylvania State Government, including NewsClips, coverage of key press conferences and more. Sign up and receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. PA Capitol Digest Twitter Feed: Don't forget to sign up to receive the PA Capitol Digest

Twitter feed to get instant updates on other news from in and around the Pennsylvania State Capitol. Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule/Bills Introduced Here are the Senate and House Calendars and Committee meetings showing bills of interest as well as a list of new environmental bills introduced-Bill Calendars House (March 10): House Resolution 583 (Molchany-D-Allegheny) designating January 13-19 Mt. Washington Emerald View Park Trail Week-- sponsor summary. <> Click Here for full House Bill Calendar. Senate (March 10): Senate Bill 411 (Kasunic-D-Somerset) encouraging the reuse of mine drainage and mine pool water for drilling operations; Senate Bill 771 (Gordner-R-Columbia) establishing the State Geospatial Coordinating Board. <> Click Here for full Senate Bill Calendar. Committee Meeting Agendas This Week House: the Appropriations Committee holds budget hearings on: Independent Fiscal Office, Auditor General, Attorney General, PA Emergency Management Agency; the State Government Committee informational meeting on House Bill 1503 (Maloney-R-Berks) providing for non-building waivers under the Sewage Facilities Act-- sponsor summary. <> Click Here for full House Committee Schedule. Senate: the Appropriations Committee holds a budget hearing on: Governor‘s Budget Office, Independent Fiscal Office, Attorney General, Auditor General, Public Utility Commission. <> Click Here for full Senate Committee Schedule. Bills Pending In Key Committees Here are links to key Standing Committees in the House and Senate and the bills pending in each-House Appropriations Education Environmental Resources and Energy Consumer Affairs Gaming Oversight Human Services Judiciary Liquor Control Transportation

Links for all other Standing House Committees Senate Appropriations Environmental Resources and Energy Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure Community, Economic and Recreational Development Education Judiciary Law and Justice Public Health and Welfare Transportation Links for all other Standing Senate Committees Bills Introduced The following bills of interest were introduced this week-Pollution Control Funding: House Bill 1763 (Oberlander-R-Armstrong) eliminating the plant size limitation on funding for pollution control equipment under the Alternative Energy Investment Act-- sponsor summary. Session Schedule Here is the latest voting session schedule for the Senate and House-House February - Budget Hearings March 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 31 April 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 28, 29, 30 May 5, 6, 7 June 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30 Senate February - Budget Hearings March 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 31 April 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 28, 29, 30 May 5, 6, 7 June 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30

Senate/House Bills Moving
The following bills of interest saw action this week in the House and Senate-House

ATV/Snowmobile Trails: House Bill 1913 (Sankey-R-Clearfield) providing for proper grooming and maintenance of ATV and snowmobile trails-- sponsor summary-- was reported out of the House Transportation Committee and referred to the House Tourism and Recreational Development Committee. Emerald View Trail Week: House Resolution 583 (Molchany-D-Allegheny) designating January 13-19 Mt. Washington Emerald View Park Trail Week-- sponsor summary-- was amended and reported out of the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee and is on the House Calendar for action. Senate Fertilizer Application: Senate Bill 1149 (Brubaker-R-Lancaster) regulating the application of fertilizer on lawns, golf courses and athletic fields-- sponsor summary-- was amended and reported out of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee and is now on the Senate Calendar for action.

News From Around The State
2014 Pennsylvania Parks & Forests Foundation Award Winners Announced The PA Parks and Forests Foundation Monday recognized the outstanding service, programs and exemplary work being done in state parks and forests with the announcement of its 2014 award winners. The winners will be recognized at a special awards banquet on May 6 at the West Shore Country Club in Harrisburg. Call 717-236-7644 or send email to: [email protected] for more information and sponsorship opportunities. ―The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation enacted the awards program to celebrate the accomplishments of volunteers and staff in making the visitor experience to state parks and forests memorable,‖ says Marci Mowery, President of the Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation. ―These dedicated staff and volunteers are the lifeblood of our awardwinning park and forest system and we please to recognize and celebrate their accomplishments.‖ This year‘s winners will be honored at the 8th annual banquet on May 6 at the West Shore Country Club in Camp Hill. Sponsorships for awards are still available. This year‘s award winners include-— Cliff Jones Keystone Legacy Award: Caren Glotfelty: This top honor recognizes an outstanding contribution to the protection and/or enhancement to the park and forest system in Pennsylvania. Glotfelty has been an active and vibrant player in the conservation movement throughout her long career. Her distinguished career in environmental stewardship has included promoting smart growth, clean air and water, green building initiatives, and sustainable development in Pennsylvania in a variety of roles. She was a major strategist in the production of the Brookings Institution study, Back to Prosperity. Caren spent the early years of her career working in Pennsylvania and Maryland state government on land use and water quality policy and planning issues, becoming the first Deputy Secretary for Water Management in Pennsylvania.

-- President’s Award: Ralph Harrison: This award recognizes outstanding citizens or businesses that have made an impact in protecting open space, conservation, outdoor recreation, or volunteerism. Harrison is a retired state forester and still going strong as a volunteer, and recently wrote Quehanna: The Blemished Jewel Restored, a book about the Pennsylvania Wilds. — Joe Ibberson Government Award: Bushkill Township, Northampton County: This award is given to a person or department at any level of government to recognize their work in the stewardship of Pennsylvania‘s state park and forest system. Bushkill Township is being honored for its work with the Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center to protect important natural areas and water resources in the area, benefitting the ecological resources in the park and the education center. — Park of the Year: Prince Gallitzin State Park: This award recognizes a park for exemplary or innovative work in any or all of the following: customer service; education; programming or recreation; stewardship of the natural, cultural, or historic assets; and/or accommodation of special needs of visitors. The park produces generous environmental education programming for the public and local schools and publishes an e-newsletter three times a year. Its annual Apple Cider Festival draws up to 17,000 people each year. — Forest of the Year: Gallitzin State Forest: This award recognizes a forest district for innovative and exemplary work in both forest management and recreation for a wide range of activities. In recent years, the staff of the Gallitzin has created new healthful, low-density recreation, while maintaining forest ecosystem integrity. In addition to improving habitat and forest conditions, staff have focused on improving public access, assistance, and safety, while effectively using volunteers to enhance recreational programming, planning and development activities. Three awards given for recognition of achievements made by friends groups. — Improvements Award: Kathy and Gary Diegan: The Diegans worked to improve the landscape at the spillway of Pymatuning State Park, contributing a combined average of 20 hours a week April – October during the past four years. A botanist and multiple-handicap classroom teacher, Kathy also assists visitors with special needs who frequent the Spillway. — Volunteerism Award: Friends of Gifford Pinchot State Park: This group raised funds and worked on a number of improvements throughout the park in 2013, including benches and picnic table replacements, turtle basking platforms and ―porcupine crib‖ fish habitat structures, trail maintenance and installing two playgrounds toward a three-phase playground replacement goal. — Education Award: Promised Land Nature Center Volunteers: Started 30 years ago, Promised Land‘s Nature Arts & Crafts program is one of the Park‘s most popular programs. Last year program volunteers donated over 3,100 hours of volunteer time presenting 5 – 7 themed crafts for an average of 135 participants per week. — Young Volunteer Award: Eleanor Davis: This award is designed to show appreciation of a significant contribution to a park or forest by a person under the age of 25. As a PPFF intern, Davis spearheaded a video development project, wrote grants for state park projects, and helped organize an adaptive recreation day for wounded service members. She has also interned with the National Parks Conservation Association and the George Washington University Office of Sustainability. For more information, visit the PA Parks and Forests Foundation website. State, Federal Government, Utilities Respond To Winter Storm Emergency

Gov. Tom Corbett Wednesday signed a disaster emergency proclamation to assist state and local authorities in responding to an ice and snow storm that has damaged infrastructure, slowed travel across much of the state and caused widespread power outages. The assistance is approved for the counties of Bucks, Chester, Delaware, Lancaster, Montgomery, Philadelphia and York. On Thursday, President Obama followed the Governor‘s action by signing a Pennsylvania emergency declaration. The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency is authorized to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, or to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe. ―At the height of this storm, nearly 849,000 customers were without power in Pennsylvania,‖ Gov. Corbett said. ―This will be a days-long recovery process, and we‘re utilizing this disaster declaration to speed up state assistance to all affected parts of the state.‖ The proclamation authorizes state agencies to use all available resources and personnel, as necessary, to cope with the magnitude and severity of this emergency situation. The timeconsuming bid and contract procedures, as well as other formalities normally prescribed by law, are waived for the duration of the proclamation. The text of the declaration is available online. Click Here for information on available disaster assistance. PEMA & DPW Disaster Stress Hotline The Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency and Department of Public Welfare announced that a disaster distress hotline is available to help citizens cope with stress stemming from severe weather and power outages that are expected to last several days. The phone number, 1-800-985-5990, is available to all Pennsylvanians to help ease the stress related to the circumstances surrounding the severe weather damage caused by the recent ice and snow storm. Trained professionals will take phone calls to provide emotional support for callers. The TTY number for deaf or hearing impaired individuals is 1-800-846-8517. Help is also available by texting 66746. Water, Ice Available To Met-Ed, PPL Customers Met-Ed customers who remain without power following the damaging winter storm that hit the area can receive three gallons of water and one bag of ice per household per day at no charge from participating stores as restoration efforts continue. Click Here for a list of locations. Water and ice are available to customers of PPL without power. Click Here for locations. PECO Working To Restore Service Yesterday‘s ice and snow storm now ranks as the second most devastating storm in PECO‘s history, behind only Hurricane Sandy. Service was interrupted to approximately 650,000 customers during the storm that brought down countless trees and power lines. Hurricane Sandy interrupted service to 850,000 customers. ―We will work as quickly and safely as possible to restore service to customers as soon as we can.‖ More than 3,500 PECO employees, contractors and workers from utilities as far away as Arkansas, New Brunswick, Canada, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York and Ohio and PECO‘s Chicago-based sister utility ComEd, will work around-the-clock to repair damage and restore service to customers as part of this monumental effort. AG Warns Of Storm-Related Scams Attorney General Kathleen G. Kane Thursday cautioned both Pennsylvania consumers

and businesses about price gouging and other weather-related scams after a State of Emergency was declared last evening by the Governor. "Pennsylvania consumers are protected from unwarranted, sudden price increases during emergencies," Attorney General Kane said. "My office will accept complaints from consumers and businesses and violators of these protections will be held accountable." The price-gouging restrictions prohibit anyone involved in the sale or distribution of consumer goods or services from 'unconscionably excessive' increases above average prices during the week prior to the emergency. Click Here for complete announcement. PennDOT Updates Traveler Information Services Pennsylvania's 511PA traveler information system is now providing motorists with better access to traffic information with a new and improved website, www.511PA.com, as well as improved phone and personal-alert systems. The redesigned website, which works on both computers and mobile devices, provides free, 24-hour travel information for thousands of miles of state roads including the Pennsylvania Turnpike. Users who opt to get their traveler information on the phone will find an easier-to-use system that provides information more quickly and includes better voice recognition technology. The phone system is accessible by dialing 511 from within Pennsylvania. Users who call 511PA from outside the state should call 1-877-511-PENN (7366). Game Commission Helps Relief Efforts The Game Commission is contributing to a coordinated relief effort to restore power to hundreds of thousands of Pennsylvanians who are feeling the effects of a winter storm that on Wednesday wreaked havoc on many parts of the state. Game Commission personnel have been helping to man the State Emergency Operations Center and allocate equipment and manpower to the relief response. The agency also has sent 27 of its Food & Cover Corps employees to Chester County to help remove fallen trees and enable utility workers to reach and repair power lines. ―Many of our own employees and their families continue to be affected by the aftermath of this severe winter storm, and we certainly are proud to do our part in providing relief,‖ said Matt Hough, Executive Director. NewsClips: Corbett Signs Disaster Declaration, 586,000 Without Power Federal Disaster Declared After 715,000 Lose Power Over 280,000 Without Power In Southeast Met-Ed Winter Storm Update More Than 455,000 In PA Without Power Help Arrives To Restore Power To Thousands Crew Of 5,000 Mobilized To Tackle Power Outages Outages Go Up, Down In Fight To Restore Power PUC: Power Companies Learned Hard Lessons From Sandy Residents Struggle As Power Slowly Restored After Storm Corbett Tours Storm-Ravaged Montgomery County Attorney General Warns Of Price Gouging, Scams After Storm PECO: Going To Be Rough Couple Of Days Electric Utilities Call In Extra Help To Deal With Winter Storm

Price Of Diesel Fuel On Rise In PA Propane Price Spikes, Fuel Hard To Find Scientists Tracked Fewer Extreme Storms In 2013 DEP Reorganization Eliminates Field Operations Deputy The Executive Board published notice of a reorganization of the Department of Environmental Protection on February 8 (PA Bulletin, page 785). The reorganization eliminates the position of Deputy Secretary for Field Operations and places DEP major regional offices under the supervision of the Executive Deputy for Programs (Dana Aunkst). The Office of Pollution Prevention and Energy Assistance is placed under the supervision of the DEP Policy Office (Hayley Book). Certain personnel functions are also being combined with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. The other major Deputates remain the same: Executive Deputy for Administration (Jeff Logan) and Management, Waste, Air, Radiation and Remediation (Vince Brisini), Water Management (Kelly Heffner), Active and Abandoned Mine Operations (John Stefanko), Oil and Gas Management (Scott Perry) and Chief Counsel (Dennis Whitaker). Environmental Quality Board Feb. 18 Meeting On Air Quality, Land Recycling Regulations The Environmental Quality Board will meet on February 18 to consider a number of agenda items including final regulations setting new VOC emission limits on printing operations, a proposed rule updating Land Recycling Program regulations, DEP‘s response to a rulemaking petition to upgrade the Perkiomen Creek and Stony Run watersheds and a report on NPDES permit and administration fees. The meeting will be held in Room 105 of the Rachel Carson Building starting at 9:00 a.m. For more information and available handouts, visit the Environmental Quality Board webpage. DEP Citizens Advisory Council Meeting Features Chesapeake Bay Agreement Overview The February 18 meeting of DEP‘s Citizens Advisory Council features a presentation on the draft Chesapeake Bay Agreement now out for public review by Andrew Zemba, Director of DEP‘s Interstate Waters Office. In addition to the regular report by DEP Secretary Chris Abruzzo, the Council will also hear a presentation on Onlot Sewage Disposal System Planning Program changes and have a discussion of potential priorities for DEP in 2014. Click Here to read a copy of the February Report of activities submitted to Council by DEP. The meeting will start at 10:00, not 11:00, in Room 105 of the Rachel Carson Building in Harrisburg. For more information, visit the DEP Citizens Advisory Council webpage.

CBF: New Legal Action Threatens To Derail Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Efforts Monday Attorneys General from 21 states filed an amicus brief in an effort to derail the Chesapeake Bay Clean Water Blueprint, according to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. The American Farm Bureau Federation, The Fertilizer Institute, and other agricultural lobbyist groups have appealed a ruling from a federal court in Pennsylvania that upheld the legality of the federal/state efforts to restore water quality in local rivers, streams, and the Chesapeake Bay. The Chesapeake Bay Foundation intervened in the lawsuit in support of restoration efforts. In response to the amicus brief CBF President Will Baker issued the following statement. ―The Chesapeake Bay states have worked with the federal government to develop a Blueprint for clean water in local rivers, streams, and the Chesapeake Bay. And, it is working. ―A group of agricultural lobbyists including the Farm Bureau and The Fertilizer Institute and others sued EPA to overturn the science-based pollution limits on which the Blueprint is based. Judge Rambo, a well-respected federal judge, found as fact that the process for developing the pollution limits was legal and that EPA did not overstep its bounds. In fact, she heralded the interaction between the federal government and the states as cooperative federalism at its best. ―The Farm Bureau and other big-ag lobbying groups have appealed that decision. Now, the Farm Bureau group has recruited 21 states and 8 counties to support overturning the federal judge‘s ruling. According to their brief they are concerned that if it works here other watersheds, like the Mississippi River Basin, ‗could be next.‘ ―We say to Missouri, Indiana, Kansas, Alaska, and the other 17 states, don‘t tell us how to restore clean water in our backyard. Each of the six Bay states and the District of Columbia— including hard working farmers, businesses, and individuals—are cooperating. Together, we are well on our way to making our rivers and streams safer, improving habitat, protecting human health, and strengthening local economies. Those are good things, at least here.‖ NewsClips: 21 States, 8 Counties Challenge Chesapeake Bay Standards 21 States Join Fight To Halt Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Lancaster County Joins Fights EPA In Pollution Limits On Farmers CBF Urges Corbett To Include Clean Water Investments In Budget Rooftop Garden In Works At Art Works Hatfield Basin Project Moves Ahead With In-House Work Alcosan Working To Address EPA Concerns About Sewer Plan New Penn State Center For Nutrient Solutions A multi-pronged, systems approach to solving water pollution caused by nutrients in the environment is the focus of a new center housed in Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences. With a $2.2 million Science to Achieve Results grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, researchers will launch the Center for Integrated Multi-scale Nutrient Pollution Solutions. The center is one of four new National Centers for Innovative and Sustainable Water Research announced by EPA on January 30. The Penn State-led center -- known by its short title, the Center for Nutrient Solutions --

will encompass seven teams that will combine existing research efforts with new studies and programs to tackle the vexing problem of nutrient pollution and its effects on watersheds, particularly the Chesapeake Bay basin. The three-year project will look at nutrient flows from agricultural, rural, urban, municipal and atmospheric sources, noted principal investigator James Shortle, distinguished professor of agricultural and environmental economics, who also directs the Penn State Environment and Natural Resources Institute. Nonpoint source nutrient losses -- primarily nitrogen and phosphorus -- from agriculture and other land uses cause significant water pollution in many regions of the country, including the Susquehanna-Chesapeake watershed, which is home to more than 17 million people. Population growth and resource development are placing increased demands on the region's water resources and aquatic ecosystems. "Previous research has led to the implementation of best management practices that have helped to reduce nutrient runoff into streams and rivers," said Shortle. "But BMP selection and location are important factors determining effectiveness. We need more science to be sure we select the right practices that can be implemented in the right places in a cost-effective manner. Shortle pointed out, however, that best management practices by themselves may not do enough in light of larger, systemic challenges. "One of our major goals is to determine how far enterprise-level best management practices can go in solving problems and when we instead must begin to strategically address system-wide mass-balance issues." Shortle explained that much farm-related nutrient pollution in Pennsylvania results from the importation of nutrients -- largely in the form of Midwestern corn and other livestock feed ingredients -- that leads to an imbalance in the environment. An estimated 30 percent of these nutrients pass through undigested in manure and end up in bodies of water via runoff or atmospheric deposition. Excess nitrogen and phosphorous in the Chesapeake Bay, much of which comes from the Susquehanna River and its tributaries, are blamed for algal blooms and related "dead zones" where many aquatic species can't survive due to a lack of oxygen. State and federal governments for decades have pursued policy options and voluntary measures aimed at restoring water quality in the bay -- the nation's largest freshwater estuary -- with mixed success. The new Center for Nutrient Solutions will focus on four Chesapeake Bay tributary watersheds: Conewago Creek, Mahantango Creek and Spring Creek in Pennsylvania and the Manokin River in Maryland. Efforts in the Conewago Creek watershed will build on an existing Penn State Extension initiative -- featured in a recently released video -- that already has achieved measurable results. "Our team will use a 'shared discovery' approach that will engage researchers with community partners to identify the drivers that control nutrient inputs and outputs within a study area and apply the best watershed science to develop a realistic and scalable set of interventions," Shortle said. "The objective is to provide advanced decision-support tools that will help farmers, government planners, land and water managers, water quality agencies, and others to achieve societal, economic and ecological benefits from nutrient pollution reductions." Shortle maintains that decisions about agricultural nutrients must be made in the context of their relative contribution compared to the overall food production and consumption system, stormwater runoff from other land uses, wastewater treatment and atmospheric deposition. And he acknowledges that any solutions will require trade-offs. "We will challenge each other to find ways for agricultural industries, urban economies

and ecosystem services to coexist sustainably," he said. In addition to researchers from Penn State, scientists from the University of Maryland and the U.S. Department of Agriculture will participate in the project. NewsClips: 21 States, 8 Counties Challenge Chesapeake Bay Standards 21 States Join Fight To Halt Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Lancaster County Joins Fights EPA In Pollution Limits On Farmers CBF Urges Corbett To Include Clean Water Investments In Budget Rooftop Garden In Works At Art Works Hatfield Basin Project Moves Ahead With In-House Work Alcosan Working To Address EPA Concerns About Sewer Plan Penn State’s Landscape Architecture Program: Water Blues, Green Solutions Video Penn State‘s landscape architecture undergraduate program is the best in the country, providing students with hands-on experiences both in and out of the classroom. Stuart Echols, associate professor of landscape architecture, encourages his students to explore new innovations in green infrastructure. ―The reason I think it is important for our students to have the background in green infrastructure is that they are the ones that are going to need to be leading the way,‖ Echols said in the video. His dedication, coupled with that of the rest of the department, translates not only into curriculum for landscape architecture students, but also extracurricular engagement. According to Echols, undergraduates are participating in design competitions on their own — not for class credit. Wilson Lee is one such student. Lee and his peers participate in an annual competition through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to design a space on campus that integrates stormwater systems. This particular group of Penn State students is implementing a design for Pollock Commons. ―We created runnels and bioretention swales and also porous pavement in order to capture stormwater for reuse,‖ said Lee. ―It‘s a project that is based around the education and public awareness of stormwater systems and at the same time utilizing it in a way that benefits Penn State as a community.‖ Filmmakers relied on Echols‘ expertise during the production of Penn State Public Media‘s latest documentary, ―Water Blues, Green Solutions.‖ ―Professor Echols and his colleague‘s Penn State‘s landscape architecture program are doing innovative research and gathering information on who‘s doing the best work in green infrastructure across the country,‖ said Cheraine Stanford, producer of ―Water Blues, Green Solutions.‖ ―This wealth of knowledge gave us a new perspective about the importance of having green infrastructure that is not only functional but also beautiful so that people love it, are invested in it and take care of it.‖ Learn more about the documentary and Penn State‘s involvement in green infrastructure by visiting the Water Blues website. Watch ―Water Blues, Green Solutions‖ online. It will also air at 8 p.m. on February 13, on WPSU-TV. NewsClips:

21 States, 8 Counties Challenge Chesapeake Bay Standards 21 States Join Fight To Halt Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Lancaster County Joins Fights EPA In Pollution Limits On Farmers CBF Urges Corbett To Include Clean Water Investments In Budget Rooftop Garden In Works At Art Works Hatfield Basin Project Moves Ahead With In-House Work Alcosan Working To Address EPA Concerns About Sewer Plan March 8 Educators Workshop On Reducing Non-Point Source Pollution By ALCOSAN On March 8 ALCOSAN will host an educators workshops entitled, ―Low Impact Development Techniques to Reduce Non-Point Source Pollution in Our Waterways‖ in Allegheny County. Click Here for more information. ALCOSAN Offers Summer Science Camp For Grades 4 to 8 In Allegheny County ALCOSAN Summer Science offers students in grades 4 through 8 an exciting week of hands-on activities and field trips related to the sciences of wastewater treatment and engineering. Each session is designed using Pennsylvania standards for Environment & Ecology as well as Science & Technology and Engineering Education. Click Here for more information. Trout Unlimited 2nd River Researchers Teen Camp June 22-28 Trout Unlimited and the West Branch Susquehanna River Coalition will hold its second River Researchers Teen Camp in Penfield, Clearfield County where students ages 14-17 will learn about abandoned mine drainage, brook trout and coldwater conservation. Click Here for more information and download a Camp brochure. Keystone Energy Education Program Workshop In State College March 6 The Department of Environmental Protection invites middle school teachers, administrators and building managers to a March 6 training workshop in State College, Centre County on the Keystone Energy Education Program (KEEP) to teach and track energy efficiency in school buildings and homes. The workshop is offered free of charge and will be from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Penn State University‘s Sackett Building, Room 309, on West College Ave. KEEP is geared to teachers of grades 4 through 8, administrators and building maintenance managers. Workshop participants will learn about and explore energy issues, including fundamentals and impacts, electricity generation, transportation fuels, careers, energy conservation, student teams and school building energy benchmarking through presentations, tours and hands-on activities. Participants will have the opportunity to integrate high level, standards-based energy education into their formal curriculum. This could include lesson plans, curricular modules and ongoing benchmarking through EPA‘s Energy Star Portfolio Manager, resulting in energy efficiency assessments leading to improvements that reduce energy consumption. The workshops are based on Pennsylvania‘s Academic Standards and Assessment

Anchors for Environment and Ecology, Science and Technology and Engineering Education. Participating teachers will receive background information, standards-based curricular materials and energy conservation material kits. Participating teachers will be eligible for seven Act 48 credit hours. Space is limited, so registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Register by contacting the KEEP Coordinator Susan Gove at 412-431-1010 or send email to: [email protected]. Healthy Schools-Healthy Children Conference March 6 Philadelphia The School District of Philadelphia, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the American Lung Association of the Mid-Atlantic will host a Healthy Schools-Healthy Children Conference March 6 at the Philadelphia Education Center, 440 N. Broad St., Philadelphia from 8:30 to 4:30. Training will focus on how school district personnel can take simple, low-cost steps to improve indoor air quality (IAQ) in schools while saving money, improving health, and decreasing student and staff absenteeism. Click Here for more information. Check Out PA Assn. Of Environmental Educators EE Resources Website Want to learn more about environmental education? Need teaching resources or environmental education training? Visit the PA Association of Environmental Educators‘ Linking Pennsylvania website for all things environmental education. AFT: Passage Of The New Farm Bill Makes Biggest Reform In Agricultural Policy In Years The American Farmland Trust Tuesday praised final Congressional adoption of the new Farm Bill which makes the biggest reform in agricultural policy in years, according to Andrew McElwaine, President and CEO of AFT. ―The new Farm Bill requires farmers who receive crop insurance premium assistance to have a conservation plan which helps protect erodible soil and wetlands,‖ said McElwaine. ―Conservation compliance in past has been applied to over 140 million acres helping farmers save 295 million tons of soil per year. An estimated 1.5 million to 3.3 million acres of vulnerable wetlands have not been drained as a result of this compliance provision.‖ The bill includes a number of other American Farmland Trust's legislative priorities that will help preserve agricultural land, promote sound farming practices, and help keep farmers on the land, including--- The investment of $2 billion in conservation easements which helps limit the loss of our nation's working farms and ranch lands to non-farm uses; and -- Priorities like Beginning Farmers and Farmers Markets with over $250 million in funding to support opportunities for farmers and consumers. "As with any compromise there are pros and cons, but on the whole we congratulate Congress for coming together to craft a bill. We look forward to President Obama making the bill law,‖ said McElwaine. The American Farmland Trust is the nation‘s leading conservation organization dedicated

to protecting farmland, promoting sound farming practices and keeping farmers on the land. For more information, visit the American Farmland Trust website. Chesapeake Bay Foundation Praises Passage Of New Farm Bill Chesapeake Bay Foundation Federal Policy Director Alix Murdoch issued this statement Tuesday following passage of the Farm Bill in the Senate: ―The action Congress has taken today will help farmers reduce pollution. Most farmers are stewards of the land who work tirelessly to put food on our tables and protect their land. But in the Chesapeake Bay region, too often fertilizer runs off fields and pollutes our rivers and streams. Through a new conservation program in the Farm Bill, Congress will help farmers protect the land and leave a legacy of clean water for our children and grandchildren. ―We thank Senators and Representatives from all six states in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed for making sure this new program provides family farmers with the tools and resources they need to protect our legacy: clean water in the Chesapeake Bay in the rivers and streams that feed it.‖ NewsClips: 21 States, 8 Counties Challenge Chesapeake Bay Standards 21 States Join Fight To Halt Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Lancaster County Joins Fights EPA In Pollution Limits On Farmers CBF Urges Corbett To Include Clean Water Investments In Budget Rooftop Garden In Works At Art Works Hatfield Basin Project Moves Ahead With In-House Work Alcosan Working To Address EPA Concerns About Sewer Plan AFT To Hold First National Farmland, Food And Livable Communities Conference American Farmland Trust Tuesday announced the national Farmland, Food and Livable Communities Conference will be held in Lexington, Kentucky on October 20-22. The conference will bring together leading experts from around the country for the first nationwide conference focused on farming, land use, and food policy. It will showcase and encourage best practices and inspire efforts to protect farmland and the environment, support the next generation of farmers and women in agriculture, encourage job creation and create new opportunities in local and regional food systems. ―This is the first time a national conference will bring together these diverse interests to comprehensively address the 21st century challenges of agriculture,‖ said Andrew McElwaine, President and CEO of AFT. ―The Conference will encourage greater understanding and collaboration to support agricultural viability and vibrant community food systems. ―Nationally, we have been losing one acre of farmland every minute to other uses. Globally, we need to double food production by 2050,‖ said McElwaine. ―With some of the most productive farmland in the world, the United States must be part of the solution to hunger here at home and around the world, and to do that, we must find creative ways to protect farmland and the farmers who sustain us. ―I want to thank Agriculture Commissioner James Comer for his support and his partners in the Commonwealth of Kentucky for their innovation in adopting effective strategies for protecting farmland, connecting farmers with consumers, and launching programs like

Homegrown by Heroes,‖ said McElwaine. ―I also want to thank American Farmland Trust Board member Libby Jones and former Gov. Brereton Jones for helping us plan this first-of-its-kind national gathering.‖ ―We are thrilled that American Farmland Trust has chosen Kentucky as the site of this national conference,‖ Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner James Comer said. ―The leaders and experts at this conference will take on some of the defining issues of the 21st century — food production, food safety, hunger, and balancing the need to protect the environment with the need to provide a safe, abundant, and affordable food supply to a growing global population. As a state with a rich agricultural heritage and a diverse agricultural industry, Kentucky will lead the way in meeting these challenges.‖ "AFT began its relationship with state government in Kentucky during the Jones administration. They provided excellent technical assistance and valuable support, which led to the establishment of several public and private farmland protection entities. Since then, these groups have permanently protected more than 70,000 acres across the Commonwealth," said Libby Jones, AFT Board Member. "We are very excited the Trust is returning to Kentucky to lead this important Conference where we can all share our experiences, learn from each other, and be able to make even greater progress in the future." The Conference programs will address four principal themes: -- Ensuring high quality farmland is available and affordable for agriculture; -- Supporting agricultural viability and a fair and just food system; -- Creating opportunities for the next generation of farmers; and -- Emerging issues for Women in Agriculture. Keynote speakers and local as well as national leaders will share their experiences and expertise on these themes with many opportunities for participants to network, share information and learn about best-in-class practices, planning and policy development. Other Conference highlights include: --- Kentucky Proud opening reception to give participants a chance to network and experience local fare from local farms, food enterprises and distilleries. -- Farm tour to showcase Fayette County‘s world-renowned farms in its Rural Services Area and demonstrate the value of its land use planning and farmland protection efforts. -- Mobile Workshops to give participants a taste of urban agriculture and innovative local food enterprises in Louisville and Lexington, highlighting the value of these cities‘ proactive plans and policies such as promoting infill and redevelopment, innovative food businesses, value-chain infrastructure and food access initiatives. -- Farmer-Chef Connection banquet to celebrate the farmers who have permanently protected their farmland and showcase the region‘s seasonal bounty from local producers with recipes from chefs who create their award-winning cuisine in a sustainable way. For more information on the Conference, visit: www.farmland.org. Interested participants can request to be notified by email when more information on registration, the agenda and other details are available by going to this webpage. Information on Conference sponsorships is also available by contacting Susan Sink, Vice President of Development and External Affairs, AFT, 202-378-1206 or by email to: [email protected]. The American Farmland Trust is the nation‘s leading conservation organization dedicated to protecting farmland, promoting sound farming practices and keeping farmers on the land. For more information, visit the Farmland, Food and Livable Communities Conference

webpage. Bankruptcy Court Invalidates State Court Ruling On City Of Reading Recycling Fees The City of Reading Monday announced that on January 31 the United States Bankruptcy Court in Philadelphia invalidated the Commonwealth Court's October 23, 2013 decision in Iezzi v. City of Reading, a decision that held that the City of Reading could not support its recycling program with a small user fee. The Bankruptcy Court's decision was based on the City's argument that the Commonwealth Court improperly acted after the property owner had declared bankruptcy. While the City obviously has no control over what litigation the future may bring, the Bankruptcy Court's ruling permits the City to again begin taking in much needed revenue to defray the cost of its recycling program, and the City intends to resume the collection of the user fee in the near future. PA Recycling Markets Development Summit Set For Feb. 20 The PA Recycling Markets Center will host the annual PA Recycling Markets Development Summit on February 20 at the Hilton Garden Inn, Philadelphia Center City from 9:30 to 3:00. The spotlight at this year‘s Summit will be on organics and features a welcome by U.S. EPA Region III Administrator Shawn Garvin. The agenda and registration form are available online. PA Resources Council, ECOvanta Set Electronics Recycling Events In Southeast The PA Resources Council, ECOvanta and their partners are gearing up for another great year of electronic waste recycling in Southeast PA kicking off on February 8. In 2013, PRC collected over 400,000 pounds of electronic waste! With the help of PRC e-waste recycling partner, ECOvanta Energy, countless electronics were kept out of the landfill and diverted for recycling! PRC East will be hosting a number of events this calendar year and are looking forward to helping you recycle responsibly. In addition to household electronics, A/C Units and dehumidifiers will be accepted at events in 2014. There will be a $5 charge per television and computer monitor at all collection events. Be sure to stop by the collection nearest you and check prc.org for updates! Click Here for the schedule of e-cycling events. NewsClips: Water Bottles Transformed Into Useful Items Wilkes-Barre Recycling Changes Take Effect (Reprinted from the February issue of e-PRC newsletter from the PA Resources Council.) RecycleMania Kicks Off 2014 Collegiate Recycling Competition Let the competition begin. Through March 29, a special kind of madness is in the air at college campuses across the nation – the 14th

annual RecycleMania, the national tournament for colleges and universities competing to reduce, reuse and recycle the most. For an eight-week period, beginning today and running concurrently with the NCAA basketball tournament, colleges and universities take part in an exciting competition that increases recycling participation by students and staff, while raising awareness about waste reduction on campuses. This year, 461 schools, with more than 5.3 million students and over 1.2 million faculty and staff, are participating in all 50 states, the District of Columbia and Canada. New York has the best representation with 32 colleges participating, followed by Pennsylvania and Texas. A diverse mix of schools are taking part, ranging from Harvard University to Clemson University to Sitting Bull College in North Dakota. The competition is made possible with the continued support of Alcoa Foundation, the American Forest & Paper Association, The Coca-Cola Company and SCA Tissue. Schools compete in any of 11 categories targeting commonly recycled or composted materials such as paper and paper-based packaging, aluminum, plastics bottles, electronics and food organics. Updated rankings published online each Friday allow schools to track their progress and rally to improve their standings against rival colleges. "RecycleMania is exciting because it builds on traditional college rivalries by adding recycling to the list of things that schools can brag about when it comes to their archrivals," said Stacy Wheeler, president of RecycleMania, Inc. "The competition aspect of the event makes it fun and helps to encourage everyone on the entire campus to make recycling a part of their daily routines." Promotional resources are offered to help schools spread the word on campus, including free posters and banners, small "stipend" grants and "Event in a Box" toolkits featuring activity planning tips, promotional giveaway items and other materials needed to stage attention-getting events. "Encouraging waste reduction and recycling among college students is crucial to building and sustaining vibrant communities, both on campuses and beyond," said Keep America Beautiful's Brenda Pulley, senior vice president, recycling. "Supporting RecycleMania is a key component of KAB's efforts to improve recycling on college campuses." "RecycleMania is unique in its ability to reach college students – an important and influential audience. Because they have developed recycling habits early, these students have the potential to help advance recycling in the future," said Esra Ozer, President of Alcoa Foundation. "RecycleMania helps millions of students, faculty and staff capture an extraordinary amount of recyclable material. Given Alcoa Foundation's goal of driving greater recycling rates, we have a natural partner in RecycleMania and are eager to see the results of this competition." "Programs like RecycleMania motivate people to recycle and to measure the results of their efforts," said American Forest & Paper Association president and CEO Donna Harman. "The paper industry has achieved noteworthy recovery goals for years, and we thank the millions of individuals who make the choice to recycle every day. Our industry has pledged to exceed 70 percent recovery of our products for recycling by 2020, and initiatives like RecycleMania will help us get there." "Coca-Cola is committed to increasing recycling rates and advancing local recycling initiatives," said Bruce Karas, vice president of environment and sustainability at Coca-Cola. "RecycleMania encourages students to recycle through friendly competition among universities. Through this program, we hope recycling becomes a long-term habit."

"Best of luck to all of the colleges and universities participating in this year's RecycleMania contest! We're eager to follow the competition and encourage everyone to recycle more and reduce waste," said Joseph Russo, vice president, sales & marketing, SCA's AfH Professional Hygiene business in North America. "It's very meaningful for SCA to continue to be a part of this annual recycling tradition. It's one of the many ways we show our passion for sustainability while urging others to make recycling a year-round commitment." In 2013, 91 million pounds of recyclables and organic materials were recovered, which prevented the release of greenhouse gases comparable to the carbon sequestered by 99,535 acres of U.S. forests in one year. A complete list of participants can be found at the RecycleMania website. Contact information for specific campuses is available to news media by calling 202-417-7379 or sending email to: [email protected]. NewsClips: Water Bottles Transformed Into Useful Items Wilkes-Barre Recycling Changes Take Effect Coca-Cola, Keep America Beautiful Accepting Recycling Bin Grant Applications The Recycling Bin Grant Program sponsored by Coca-Cola and Keep America Beautiful is now accepting applications through March 3. Eligible organizations include government agencies, civic organizations, colleges, universities and nonprofit groups. This year, Coca-Cola has expanded its investment in the program to include a specific focus on 2-year community colleges. The program will continue to include 4-year colleges and universities, as well as the traditional public space recycling bin grants. Successful applicants will be notified by Keep America Beautiful on or before April 15, Suppliers will deliver bins directly to the recipients throughout this summer. Since 2010, more than 34,000 recycling bins have been distributed through the Recycling Bin Grant Program. More than 400 organizations have received bin grants and 4.4 million people have been reached through this program. For more information, visit the Recycling Bin Grant Program website. NewsClips: Water Bottles Transformed Into Useful Items Wilkes-Barre Recycling Changes Take Effect PA Volunteers Receive Top Honors At Keep America Beautiful National Conference Two Pennsylvania volunteers-- Boris Weinstein of Allegheny County and Nicole Chandler of Philadelphia were both honored for the efforts in litter reduction and beautification at the Keep America Beautiful Conference this week. Boris Weinstein, founder of Citizens Against Litter, volunteer with Allegheny CleanWays, and member of the Clean Pittsburgh Commission, was honored with the 2013 Keep America Beautiful Iron Eyes Cody Award. Boris, a Shadyside resident, received the award for ―exceptional leadership in raising public awareness about litter prevention, roadside and community beautification, solid waste issues, and the need for citizens to participate in activities that preserve and enhance natural

resources and public lands,‖ according to KAB. Since 1970, Boris has been an anti-litter crusader in Pittsburgh. He frequently speaks out against litter at public meetings and in editorials; orchestrates biannual regional cleanups; and has inspired residents near and far to pick up litter in their community. Nicole Chandler, coordinator of Keep Royal Gardens Beautiful, an affiliate of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful and partner of Keep Philadelphia Beautiful, was honored with the Keep America Beautiful Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson Award for her lifetime work to lead thousands of volunteers in litter prevention, waste reduction, recycling, and beautification and greening activities. Nicole has empowered citizens of Philadelphia to take pride in their community and clean and beautify Morris Park, part of the Fairmount Park System in Philadelphia. Nicole continues to secure significant in-kind donations and forge partnerships with local businesses and global corporations to ensure the work continues. ―We are grateful to Keep America Beautiful for the opportunity and congratulate both Boris and Nicole for receiving this national recognition. I commend Boris and Nicole for their local efforts, many achievements and countless contributions to clean and beautiful communities.‖ stated Shannon Reiter, president of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful. The Iron Eyes Cody and Mrs. Lyndon B. Johnson awards were both chosen from a national pool of volunteers. Boris and Nicole were present at the Keep America Beautiful National Convention in Charlotte to accept their awards. Keep PA Beautiful To Clean Up Illegal Dumpsites In Washington County Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Friday announced it has received $94,336 to continue the removal and abatement of illegal dumpsites in Washington County from the Department of Community and Economic Development, Washington County Commissioners – Local Share Account Fund. The program, initiated in 2011, offers rehabilitation of Washington County Court System, Furlough Into Service participants and a signficiant cost savings to the community through the provision of community service hours. To date, 261,000 pounds of trash and 3,200 tires have been removed. As part of the funded program, high-tech cameras are positioned at dumpsites throughout Washington County to capture license plate numbers and acts of illegal dumping and vehicle descriptions. All evidence gathered from these cameras is used to prosecute individuals to the fullest extent of the law. The program has resulted in several fines and successful prosecutions. The cameras will be repositioned around the county as needed. Illegal dumpsites have existed throughout Washington County for decades, plaguing roadways, hillsides, and streams. In 2005, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful‘s Illegal Dump Survey identified 126 sites, containing an estimated 317 tons of trash. Negative environmental and economic impacts affect citizens, wildlife, and the natural landscape. Chemicals, asbestos, and drug-related waste could impose more elevated risks. ―We are grateful for the funding and support to continue this valuable program. Our collective goal is a clean and beautiful Washington County,‖ stated Shannon Reiter, Keep PA Beautiful President. Questions regarding proper disposal of waste and recycling in Washington County can be answered by Jason Theakston, Recycling Coordinator, Washington County Planning

Commission, at 724-228-6811, or send email to: [email protected]. PRC Sets Allegheny County Watershed, Composting, Enviro-Health Workshop Schedule The PA Resources Council has kicked off its winter/spring 2014 community workshop series by scheduling workshops on covering watershed protection, composting and environmental health at various locations in Allegheny County, PA. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn how to make your environmental footprint a bit smaller through simple but effective activities practiced in and around the home. Change starts with each and every one of us. It's easier than you think! NewsClips: Water Bottles Transformed Into Useful Items Wilkes-Barre Recycling Changes Take Effect (Reprinted from the February issue of e-PRC newsletter from the PA Resources Council.) PA Resources Council February e-PRC Newsletter Now Available The February issue of the PA Resources Council e-PRC newsletter is now available. This year PRC celebrates its 75th anniversary as one of the Commonwealth‘s oldest citizen action environmental organizations. Looking For Ways To Save Energy, Water, Plant Smart And Save The Environment? If you‘re looking for ways you can save energy, water, plant smart and save the environment, look no further than the iConservePA.org website. Visit and see how you can make a difference and sign up for their newsletter. Saturday Feb. 8 Air Quality Action Day In Susquehanna, Lehigh Valleys The Department of Environmental Protection and its regional air quality partnership have forecast an Air Quality Action Day for Saturday, February 8 in the 8 county Susquehanna and Lehigh Valleys. Click Here for details. NewsClip: DEP Warns Of Air Quality Action Day Saturday DCED, DEP Schedule Brownfields Seminars For Municipal Officials The departments of Environmental Protection and Community and Economic Development are teaming up to hold half-day seminars on brownfield development for municipal officials, township, borough and community leaders, county/city planners, redevelopment authorities, economic/industrial development agencies. Attendees will learn about how to breathe life into abandoned and vacant properties, hear local success stories, learn the basics of brownfields, find out about the availability of public funding and how to apply for it, network with other representatives of municipal organizations and get answers to questions. The seminars are free and run 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided. Space is

limited. Click on the links below to register. -- March 20 – Chester Co. EDC., Exton (register here) -- April 10 -- DEP Regional Office, Williamsport (register here) -- May 2 -- DEP Regional Office, Meadville (register here) -- May 14 -- DEP Regional Office, Pittsburgh (register here) For more information, contact Kim Hoover at 717-783-1566 or send email to: [email protected]. (Reprinted from Feb. 6 DEP News) DEP Responds To Oil Spill In Delaware River DEP emergency responders last week joined the U.S. Coast Guard and other members of an incident management team to assess the release of about 1,000 gallons of crude oil from Monroe Energy‘s refinery in Trainer, Delaware County. Monroe Energy promptly reported the Jan. 27 spill, which occurred when a pipe ruptured in the facility‘s off-loading area. The company took the necessary actions to minimize environmental impacts.. ―While any spill into our waterways is unacceptable, reporting protocols were followed and we were able to respond quickly and effectively - the frigid weather and quick containment response have helped to minimize the impacts of this incident,‖ DEP Secretary Chris Abruzzo said. DEP staff monitored the cleanup until it had been completed as of February 4, and will review the cause of this incident to determine whether additional action is warranted. (Reprinted from Feb. 6 DEP News) Marcellus Shale Coalition Offers Training Opportunities For Professionals The Marcellus Shale Coalition has scheduled several upcoming workshops for environmental and other professionals working in the natural gas development industry. Topics include pipeline safety, pre-drill water sampling, pre-drill database, transportation safety and other subjects. Click Here for more information. PUC Seeking Comments On Providing More Electric Supplier Information In Bills The Public Utility Commission Thursday issued for comment a proposal to provide consumers with more information from their electric generation suppliers on their utility bill. ―As a proponent of competitive markets, I applaud this effort and believe it is critically important that we continue to explore ways for EGSs to more directly connect with their customers,‖ said Commissioner Pamela A. Witmer in a statement. ―I look forward to reviewing the comments the Commission receives on these proposals.‖ The Commission voted 5-0 to receive comments on the proposed changes to customers‘ electric bills, providing for the inclusion of the EGS‘s logo on the bill; the expansion of bill messaging space allotted to EGSs; and the inclusion of a Shopping Information Box. The Commission‘s goal is to increase customer awareness when participating in the

competitive retail electric market and provide more information from EGSs in the utilityconsolidated bill. As part of its Retail Markets Investigation End State Final Order, which was intended to improve the state‘s retail electricity market, the Commission directed the Office of Competitive Market Oversight (OCMO) to provide recommendations on how the current utility-consolidated bill can provide more supplier information. The Commission stated that the ―expected end-result would look more like a joint EDC-EGS bill.‖ Interested parties have 30 days to file comments. Instructions on how to file comments may be found in the Tentative Order. For more information on electric suppliers, visit the PUC‘s Power To Choose website. NewsClip: Editorial: PUC Should Release Data For Transparency PA Coal Alliance: Study Proves Need For Energy Policy Examination A state-based study showing that increasing energy costs are straining the budgets of lower and middle-income Pennsylvanians underlines the need to examine the factors that are driving up costs and compromising the reliability of the electric supply, the Pennsylvania Coal Alliance said Wednesday. Alliance CEO John Pippy, reacting to a study commissioned by the American Coalition for Clean Coal Electricity, reiterated his call for legislative hearings to find out why costs are increasing and why PJM Interconnect, the organization that operates the regional power grid, did not have access to reasonably priced wholesale power during the recent cold weather. The ACCCE study, which updates a 2011 state-based analysis, said 49 percent of Pennsylvania households now spend an average of 19 percent of their after-tax income on energy. Energy bills for the poorest Pennsylvanians take as much as 72 percent of their family incomes, the study said. "The alarming thing is that this study was completed before PJM had to request special permission to exceed a $1,000 per megawatt-hour price cap on wholesale power during the recent polar vortex," Pippy said. "As a result, many Pennsylvanians are in for considerable sticker shock as they receive their electric bills over the next couple of months." The average wholesale price in the PJM region last year was $42 per megawatt-hour, according to the Energy Information Administration (EIA). Pippy noted that federal emission standards resulted in the closing of three coal-fired power plants in Pennsylvania last year, and recently proposed standards would force the closing of many more. "The new standards fail to take into account what is achievable with current technology," Pippy said. "As a result, the federal government is unilaterally taking coal out of the nation's energy mix, much to the detriment of Pennsylvania's economy and the state's energy consumers." Coal-fired electricity is significantly more affordable than some other energy sources, and is much less susceptible to wild price swings, he explained. Moreover, technology has helped to greatly reduce coal emissions of sulfur, nitrogen, particulates and even carbon, he noted, although imposing unachievable standards would have the effect of discouraging the advance of clean-coal technology. "As I have often said, no energy source is perfect, but coal has its place in the nation's energy mix," Pippy said. "We don't need to choose between environmental quality and affordable, reliable electricity. We can have both."

A copy of the study is available online. DEP Energy Conservation Code Workshop Feb. 20 In Centre County The Department of Environmental Protection invites code enforcement officials, builders, contractors and designers to a February 20 training workshop in State College, Centre County on the 2009 International Energy Conservation Code. The workshop will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Penn Stater Conference Center Hotel, 215 Innovation Boulevard. The one-day program will focus on energy code compliance for residential buildings. Participants will learn about performing a thorough plan review, proper air sealing and insulation inspection items, the process for completing a thorough energy inspection and accurately assessing every item in a provided plan review and insulation checklist. The IECC is updated every three years by the International Code Council. In Pennsylvania, it is considered part of the Uniform Construction Code (UCC), according to Act 49. The cost to register is $40 and includes a training manual, breakfast and lunch. Six UCC continuing education hours will be awarded to attendees. Online registration is available and will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis. Walk-ins may be accepted if space and materials are available. Funding for the workshop is provided by the department through a U.S. Department of Energy State Energy Program grant. For more information, call 717-763-0930. Next Pollution Prevention, Energy Efficiency Roundtable Feb. 20 The PA Association of Environmental Professionals will hold its next Pollution Prevention and Energy Efficiency Roundtable meeting at 8:30 a.m., February 20 at Tobyhanna Army Depot in Monroe County. Mike Dominick of the Tobyhanna Army Depot will present an emergency demand case study and a tour of the depot‘s energy projects will be conducted including its solar carport, solar tubes, heat recovery system and green roof. DEP‘s Janel Warnick will give a presentation on DEP‘s Natural Gas Vehicle Grant Program. For information, visit the PAEP P2E2 Roundtable webpage. (Reprinted from Feb. 6 DEP News) Biomass Project At Lycoming County School District Saving Energy Dollars Staff from DEP‘s energy office were among those on hand January 29 for a demonstration of a successful biomass green energy project at Hughesville Junior-Senior High School in the East Lycoming School District. More than 30 industry professionals were present for the ―Willow for Energy Field Day Harvest demonstration of the district‘s $2.3 million project that combined the installation of a biomass heating system with the planting of 40 acres of hybrid willow to be harvested for wood

chips as a fuel source. The project, which got underway in 2009, was partially funded with a $800,000 grant from the Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority. The biomass boiler and conveyor were installed in 2010, followed by the planting of the willow that spring. The district continues to purchase wood chips from local growers until its crop of willow is established and can be harvested for use in the boiler. The district anticipates saving $30,000 annually in heating costs. According to the Williamsport Sun Gazette, only 10 schools in Pennsylvania, including colleges, use wood chip-boiler heating, and Hughesville is the only high school in the nation that now is harvesting its own biomass product. (Reprinted from Feb. 6 DEP News) Piney Creek Waste Coal Power Plant Offered For Sale In Clarion Piney Creek waste coal power plant in Clarion County is now being offered for turnkey sale for a limited time only. Otherwise, the assets will be sold through a live auction on February 20. Stuart B. Millner & Associates—an asset management company—is conducting the liquidation of Piney Creek, a 32 MW (net) generating plant in Clarion, Pa that shut down in 2013. SBMA will be considering offers for the entire facility—all of the assets and the buildings—up until the day of the auction (February 20). Otherwise, SBMA will host the auction live onsite in Clarion, PA and live online at Bidspotter, starting at 10:00 a.m. (EST). SBMA is currently fulfilling requests for onsite visits. Those interested in visiting the facility and/or inspecting the assets, should contact Bob Findeiss by sending email to: [email protected] or calling 636-390-3372. The plant is located at 428 Power Lane, Clarion, PA 16214. Penn State Extension, DCNR PA Forest Health Update Conference March 4 Penn State Extension and DCNR‘s Bureau of Forestry will hold its annual PA Forest Health Update Conference on March 4 at the Red Fern Conference Center in St. Mary‘s, Elk County. This 33rd annual spring briefing will review the status of forest health and the important forest insect and disease problems facing Pennsylvania. There is a $45 fee for the program and the deadline to register is February 27. To register, call 877-489-1398. Online registration will be available shortly. Click Here for more information or contact Don Eggen, DCNR Bureau of Forestry at 717-787-2336 or send email to: [email protected]. PA Horticultural Society Offers Spring, Fall Tree Tender Workshops The PA Horticultural Society has scheduled a series of Tree Tender workshops in the Spring and Fall where participants can learn how to plant and care for trees in your, region, community or your own yard. The PHS Tree Tenders Program offers hands-one tree care training for residents of the 5county Philadelphia region. The training covers biology, identification, planting, property care

and working within your community. Click Here for a complete schedule. DCNR Designates Gordon Natural Area A Wild Plant Sanctuary In Chester County The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Thursday announced the designation of a new Wild Plant Sanctuary in Chester County. The Robert B. Gordon Natural Area for Environmental Studies, a property managed by West Chester University of Pennsylvania, has been accepted into the DCNR Wild Plant Sanctuary Program, recognizing commitment of the administration, faculty, and staff to preserve the site in perpetuity. ―The Wild Plant Sanctuary Program‘s goals are twofold: promote conservation of natural areas and native plants while also recognizing landowners who serve as models of good conservation and stewardship of these special resources,‖ DCNR Secretary Ellen Ferretti said. ―By offering strategies to conserve rare plants as part of their management plans, these properties serve as models for other landowners.‖ The 164-acre Gordon Natural Area has benefited from a history of protection by university administration and faculty who recognize its value as an educational resource. Considered a natural laboratory, its streams, forests and open meadows are used actively by faculty and students from a variety of departments, providing many avenues for important research. The site also provides students an escape from sometimes busy college lifestyles. Autumn bluegrass (Poa autumnalis), a Pennsylvania Endangered species, can be found within the area‘s alluvial forest that parallels a shaded stream. The forested slopes of the property also provide sanctuary for nodding trillium (Trillium cernuum), a proposed Pennsylvania Threatened species. Many other locally uncommon native plants have been recorded at the Gordon Natural Area, making it an important reservoir of biodiversity. A comprehensive survey in 2007 showed 343 native plants inhabit the sanctuary grounds off Stadium Drive in West Goshen Township. With much of southeastern Pennsylvania‘s forestland fragmented by development, the natural area functions as a critical, and relatively contiguous, island of habitat for many species. A recent 12-acre addition linked the two separate parcels and assured protection for the stream on the properties managed by the university. The Wild Plant Sanctuary designation was announced and celebrated late last year during festivities marking the area‘s 40th anniversary. The Wild Plant Sanctuary Program was established through the Wild Resource Conservation Act of 1982 to establish a voluntary statewide network of native plant sanctuaries on private and municipal lands. Landowners agree to protect the area and educate others about the importance of native and wild plants and habitats. In return, they receive assistance with a management plan if needed, and have access to technical assistance and ecological checkups. For more information, visit the DCNR Wild Plant Sanctuary Program webpage, contact DCNR‘s Bureau of Forestry at 717-787-3444 or email to: [email protected]. DCNR February 5 Resource Newsletter Now Available The February 5 issue of DCNR‘s Resource newsletter is now available. Go to the bottom of the

Resource webpage to sign up for your own copy. February Issue Of PA Wilds Artisan Trail Newsletter Now Available The February issue of the Artisan Trail newsletter is now available from the PA Wilds program. Opportunity To Bid On DEP, DCNR Projects The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources published notice of an opportunity to bid on projects in Clinton, Lycoming and Schuylkill counties. The Department of Environmental Protection published notice of an opportunity to bid on mine reclamation projects in Clarion County and Clearfield County.

Your 2 Cents: Issues On Advisory Committee Agendas
This section gives you a continuously updated thumbnail sketch of issues to be considered in upcoming advisory committee meetings where the agendas have been released Note: DEP‘s Citizens Advisory Council published a notice that its meetings in 2014 will begin at 10:00 not 11:00. February 10-- Environmental Quality Board hearing on Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes. Troy High School, 150 High St., Troy, Bradford County. 6:00 p.m. Click Here for more information. February 11-- Agenda Released. DEP Climate Change Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. -- Approval of minutes -- Vision of next update <> Click Here for available handouts February 12-- Environmental Quality Board hearing on Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes.Warren County Courthouse, 204 4th Ave., Warren. 6:00 p.m. Click Here for more information. February 12-- Agenda Released. State Board for Certification of Water and Wastewater System Operators meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. <> Click Here for available handouts February 18-- Agenda Released. Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. -- Final regulations setting new VOC emission limits on printing operations -- Proposed rule updating Land Recycling Program regulations -- DEP‘s response to a rulemaking petition to upgrade the Perkiomen Creek and Stony Run watersheds

-- Report on NPDES permit and administration fees <> Click Here for available handouts February 18-- Time Change. Agenda Released. DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. -- Presentation on draft Chesapeake Bay Watershed Agreement -- Presentation on Onlot Sewage Disposal System Planning -- Discussion of DEP 2014 Priorities -- Report by DEP Secretary Chris Abruzzo <> Click Here for available handouts February 20-- DEP Air Quality Technical Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:15. February 26-- DEP Agricultural Advisory Board meeting. DEP Southcentral Regional Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 10:00. February 26-- DEP public hearing on proposed changes to the Cumberland, Dauphin, Lebanon, York counties State Air Quality Implementation Plan for particulates. Rachel Carson Building, Harrisburg. 10:00. (formal notice) March 4-- DEP Storage Tank Advisory Committee meeting. 14th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. March 5-- DEP Sewage Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:30. March 6-- DEP Solid Waste Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. March 6-- DEP Radiation Protection Advisory Committee meeting. 12th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. March 11-- DEP Board Of Coal Mine Safety meeting. DEP Cambria Office, 286 Industrial Park Rd., Ebensburg. 10:00. March 18-- Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. March 18-- Time Change. DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. March 19-- DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:30. March 19-- DEP Cleanup Standards Scientific Advisory Board meeting. 14th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00.

March 19-- State Board for Certification of Sewage Enforcement Officers meeting. 11th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. March 27-- CANCELED. DEP Oil and Gas Technical Advisory Board meeting. The next scheduled meeting is June 26. (formal notice) Visit DEP‘s new Public Participation Center for information on how you can Be Informed! and Get Involved! in DEP regulation and guidance development process. Click Here for links to DEP‘s Advisory Committee webpages. DEP Calendar of Events

Add Green Works In PA To Your Google+ Circle 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. February 14-- PHMC Historic Preservation Local Government Grants February 14-- Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards February 19-- PennVEST Water Infrastructure Financing February 28-- POWR PA River Sojourn Grants February 28-- Presidential Innovation Award For Environmental Educators February 28-- Appalachian Trail Hall Of Fame Nominations March 1-- SW PA Air Quality Partnership Let's Clear The Air Poster Challenge March 3-- NEW. Coca-Cola Recycling Bin Grant Program March 3-- PHMC Keystone Historic Preservation Grants March 5--CFA Alternative And Clean Energy Program March 5-- CFA High Performance Building Program March 7-- PA Section AWWA Fresh Ideas Student Presentation Competition March 14-- DEP Host Municipality Inspector Grants March 14-- PA American Water Stream Of Learning College Scholarship March 21-- WREN Water Resource Education, Source Water Collaborative Grants March 28-- Delaware Highlands Conservancy College Scholarships April 15-- DCNR Student Careers ECO Camp April 16-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants April 30-- Northeast PA Audubon Society College Scholarship May 7--CFA Alternative And Clean Energy Program May 7-- CFA High Performance Building Program May 14-- PennVEST Water Infrastructure Financing June 30-- DEP Alternative Fuel Vehicle Rebate Program July 7-- CFA Alternative And Clean Energy Program July 7-- CFA High Performance Building Program

September 19--CFA Alternative And Clean Energy Program September 19-- CFA High Performance Building Program October 31-- Hawk Mountain Sanctuary Digital Photo Contest -- Visit the DEP Grants and Loan Programs webpage for more ideas on how to get financial assistance for environmental projects.

Add Green Works In PA To Your Google+ Circle Budget/Quick NewsClips
Here's a selection of NewsClips on environmental topics from around the state-February 6 DEP News February 5 DCNR Resource DEP Warns Of Air Quality Action Day Saturday Budget Corbett Budget Expands Drilling In State Forests From Existing Well Pads Corbett Hopes To Raise $75M Thru Gas Leases In State Forests Corbett Budget Reopens Drilling Issue Corbett Discusses State Park, Forest Drilling Proposal Corbett To OK Gas Extraction From Under State Land Corbett Wants To Allow More Gas Drilling In State Forests Corbett Promises $45 Million For State Parks, Forests Corbett Plan To Increase Gas Leasing Has Advocates Worried Corbett Proposes DRBC Budget Cut As Drilling Stalemate Continues Agriculture Programs Brace For Hit Under Corbett Budget CBF Urges Corbett To Include Clean Water Investments In Budget PEC Supports Restoration Of DCNR Oil & Gas Fund PA Quickly Finds Ways To Spend Shale Gas Revenues Editorial: Corbett Should Ignore Lure Of Easy Money From Drilling Other Corbett Signs Disaster Declaration, 586,000 Without Power Federal Disaster Declared After 715,000 Lose Power Over 280,000 Without Power In Southeast Met-Ed Winter Storm Update More Than 455,000 In PA Without Power Help Arrives To Restore Power To Thousands Crew Of 5,000 Mobilized To Tackle Power Outages Outages Go Up, Down In Fight To Restore Power PUC: Power Companies Learned Hard Lessons From Sandy Residents Struggle As Power Slowly Restored After Storm Corbett Tours Storm-Ravaged Montgomery County Attorney General Warns Of Price Gouging, Scams After Storm PECO: Going To Be Rough Couple Of Days Electric Utilities Call In Extra Help To Deal With Winter Storm

Price Of Diesel Fuel On Rise In PA Propane Price Spikes, Fuel Hard To Find Scientists Tracked Fewer Extreme Storms In 2013 Editorial: PUC Should Release Data For Transparency Water Bottles Transformed Into Useful Items Wilkes-Barre Recycling Changes Take Effect Mascaro Waste Awards Scholarships Hazardous Waste Incinerator Considered In Bucks Judge: Repairs At FirstEnergy Plant Don‘t Require Pollution Controls Allegheny Energy Not Liable For Clean Air Act Violations Wind Turbine Maker To Close Western PA Plant Philadelphia Rates Its Buildings For Energy Consumption Free Market Electricity Sounds Good, But Be Wary Penn State‘s Reinvention Fund Invests In Student Sustainability Projects PSU Students Join No Impact Sustainability Experiment Editorial: Coke, Nike Know Truth On Climate Change Public Access To Natural Gas Pumps Coming To Pen Argyl Editorial: Keystone Pipeline Won‘t Expand Pollution PA Supreme Court To Hear Radiation Case Company In WV Spill Moving Chemicals To PA Chemical That Fouled WV Waters, Lands In Armstrong County Rails-To-Trails Fundraising Nears Finish Hikers Identify Winter Weeds At Powder Mill Dam NE PA Audubon Society Family Camp Scholarship Hemlock Woolly Adelgid Monitoring Workshop Set Emerald Ash Borers Resilient In Cold Weather -- DEP’s NewsClips webpage - Click Here

Add Green Works In PA To Your Google+ Circle Marcellus Shale NewsClips
Here are NewsClips on topics related to Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling--Corbett Budget Expands Drilling In State Forests From Existing Well Pads Corbett Hopes To Raise $75M Thru Gas Leases In State Forests Corbett Budget Reopens Drilling Issue Corbett Plan To Increase Gas Leasing Has Advocates Worried Corbett To OK Gas Extraction From Under State Land Corbett Wants To Allow More Gas Drilling In State Forests PA Quickly Finds Ways To Spend Shale Gas Revenues Editorial: Corbett Should Ignore Lure Of Easy Money From Drilling PEC Supports Restoration Of DCNR Oil & Gas Fund Clearing The Fog On PA Court‘s Marcellus Shale Decision Study Details Methane‘s Complexity In Northern Tier Geology

Driller Wants To Use Rock Waste For Roads Elk County Well To Take Fracking Wastewater Senior DEP Official Had Investments In Natural Gas Industry Public Access To Natural Gas Pumps Coming To Pen Argyl Program is Training Black Men For Oil & Gas Industry Financial/Other States Can Marcellus Shale Keep Up Its Massive Production? Chesapeake Energy Hires Former OK Secretary Of Environment Chesapeake Energy To Spend Less To Produce More Gas Editorial: Keystone Pipeline Won‘t Expand Pollution

Add Green Works In PA To Your Google+ Circle Flooding/Watershed NewsClips
Here are NewsClips on watershed topics from around the state-Flooding Thousands Await Delay In Flood Insurance Premium Increases Allegheny River Boat Access On Allegheny Closed Due To Ice Editorial: Taxpayers Still Inundated With Flood Insurance Cost Other Watershed NewsClips CBF Urges Corbett To Include Clean Water Investments In Budget Lancaster County Joins Fights EPA In Pollution Limits On Farmers Rooftop Garden In Works At Art Works Hatfield Basin Project Moves Ahead With In-House Work Alcosan Working To Address EPA Concerns About Sewer Plan Grape-Growing Workshops Planned In PA, MD

Add Green Works In PA To Your Google+ Circle Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits
The Environmental Quality Board will meet on February 18 to consider a number of agenda items including final regulations setting new VOC emission limits on printing operations, a proposed rule updating Land Recycling Program regulations, DEP‘s response to a rulemaking petition to upgrade the Perkiomen Creek and Stony Run watersheds and a report on NPDES permit and administration fees. No new regulations were published this week. Pennsylvania Bulletin - February 8, 2014 Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage DEP Regulatory Agenda - DEP webpage

Technical Guidance & Permits

The Executive Board published notice of a reorganization of the Department of Environmental Protection (PA Bulletin, page 785) and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (PA Bulletin, page 784). The Susquehanna River Basin Commission published notice of its actions during its December meeting. The Public Utility Commission published notice that Clean Power Markets, Inc. has decertified 21 alternative energy systems in its Alternative Energy Credit program. Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines - DEP webpage Recently Closed Comment Periods For Technical Guidance - DEP webpage Technical Guidance Recently Finalized - DEP webpage Copies of Final Technical Guidance - DEP webpage Visit DEP‘s new Public Participation Center for information on how you can Be Informed! and Get Involved! in DEP regulation and guidance development process.

Add Green Works In PA To Your Google+ Circle 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. February 10-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30- Governor‘s Budget Office, 3:00- Independent Fiscal Office. Hearing Room 1, North Office Building. February 10-- House Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 10:00- Independent Fiscal Office. Room 140 Main Capitol. February 10-- Environmental Quality Board hearing on Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes. Troy High School, 150 High St., Troy, Bradford County. 6:00 p.m. Click Here for more information. February 11-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30- Attorney General, 3:00 Auditor General. Hearing Room 1, North Office Building. February 11-- House Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30- Auditor General, 2:00Attorney General. Room 140 Main Capitol.

February 11-- Agenda Released. DEP Climate Change Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. February 12-- House Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 11:00- PA Emergency Management Agency. Room 140 Main Capitol. February 12-- Environmental Quality Board hearing on Chapter 78 Oil and Gas Regulation Changes.Warren County Courthouse, 204 4th Ave., Warren. 6:00 p.m. Click Here for more information. February 12-- Agenda Released. State Board for Certification of Water and Wastewater System Operators meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. February 13-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30- Public Utility Commission. Hearing Room 1, North Office Building. February 13-- NEW. House State Government Committee informational meeting on House Bill 1503 (Maloney-R-Berks) providing for non-building waivers under the Sewage Facilities Act-sponsor summary. Room 60 East Wing. 9:00. February 18-- House Game and Fisheries Committee informational meeting to receive the Game Commission annual report. Room 60 East Wing. 1:00. February 18-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30- Dept. of Revenue, 3:00- Dept. of Environmental Protection. Hearing Room 1, North Office Building. February 18-- Agenda Released. Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. February 18-- Time Change. Agenda Released. DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. February 19-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:00- Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources. Hearing Room 1, North Office Building. February 19-- House Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30- Public Utility Commission, 11:00- PUC Office of Consumer Affairs/Small Business Advocate, 1:00- Dept. of Environmental Protection. Room 140 Main Capitol. February 19-- House Game and Fisheries Committee informational meeting on House Resolution 129 (Causer-R-Cameron) directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study the merger of Game and Fish and Boat Commission-- sponsor summary. Room 60 East Wing. 9:00. February 19-- House Game and Fisheries Committee information meeting to receive the Fish and Boat Commission‘s annual report. Room 60 East Wing. 1:00.

February 19-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants Workshop. Nanticoke, Educational Conference Center, Luzerne County Community College. 9 to noon. (formal notice) Click Here to register. February 20-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 3:00- PA Emergency Management Agency. Hearing Room 1, North Office Building. February 20-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants Workshop. Boalsburg, Pennsylvania Military Museum. 9 to noon. (formal notice) Click Here to register. February 20-- DEP Air Quality Technical Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:15. February 21-22-- Keystone Coldwater Conference. Ramada Inn Conference Center, State College. February 24-- House Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 3:30- Dept. of Agriculture. Room 140 Main Capitol. February 24— DEP Keystone Energy Education Workshop. Vincent College Winnie Palmer Nature Reserve at 744 Walzer Way, Latrobe. 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Contact: Susan Gove at 412-431-1010 or email: [email protected]. February 25-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30- Dept. of Transportation, 3:00- Dept. of Agriculture. Hearing Room 1, North Office Building. February 25-- House Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 11:30- Dept. of Conservation & Natural Resources. Room 140 Main Capitol. February 25-- NEW. House Consumer Affairs holds a hearing on Act 129 energy efficiency, conservation programs. Room B-31. 10:00. February 25-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants Workshop. Wexford, Pine Township Recreation Center. 9 to noon. (formal notice) Click Here to register. February 26-- House Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30- Dept. of Transportation. Room 140 Main Capitol. February 26-- DEP public hearing on proposed changes to the Cumberland, Dauphin, Lebanon, York counties State Air Quality Implementation Plan for particulates. Rachel Carson Building, Harrisburg. 10:00. (formal notice) February 26-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants Workshop. Clarion Clarion Holiday Inn. 9 to noon. (formal notice) Click Here to register.

February 26-- DEP Agricultural Advisory Board meeting. DEP Southcentral Regional Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 10:00. February 27-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: (Reserved). Hearing Room 1, North Office Building. February 27-- House Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30- Governor‘s Budget Office, 1:00-- House Member Testimony. Room 140 Main Capitol. March 4-- DEP Storage Tank Advisory Committee meeting. 14th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. March 5-- House Veterans Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committee holds a hearing on public safety and emergency preparedness surrounding the rail transportation of crude oil. Eddystone Fire Company, 1112 E. 7th St., Eddystone. 9:30. March 5-- DEP Sewage Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:30. March 5-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants Program webinar. 10:00. (formal notice) Click Here to register. March 6-- DEP Solid Waste Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. March 6-- DEP Radiation Protection Advisory Committee meeting. 12th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. March 11-- DEP Board Of Coal Mine Safety meeting. DEP Cambria Office, 286 Industrial Park Rd., Ebensburg. 10:00. March 15-- Schuylkill Watershed Congress. Montgomery County Community College Pottstown campus. March 18-- Environmental Quality Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. March 18-- Time Change. DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. March 19-- House Game and Fisheries Committee holds a hearing on deer management. Room B-31 Main Capitol. 9:00. March 19-- DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:30. March 19-- DEP Cleanup Standards Scientific Advisory Board meeting. 14th Floor Conference

Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. March 19-- State Board for Certification of Sewage Enforcement Officers meeting. 11th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. March 27-- CANCELED. DEP Oil and Gas Technical Advisory Board meeting. The next scheduled meeting is June 26. (formal notice) April 10-11-- West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Symposium. Toftrees Golf Resort and Conference Center, State College. June 26-27-- Pennsylvania Abandoned Mine Reclamation Conference. Ramada Inn and Conference Center, State College. September 25-- Penn State Extension Youth Water Educator‘s Summit. The Central Hotel and Conference Center, Harrisburg. Visit DEP‘s new Public Participation Center for information on how you can Be Informed! and Get Involved! in DEP regulation and guidance development process. Click Here for links to DEP‘s Advisory Committee webpages. DEP Calendar of Events 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.

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