paenvironmentdigest feb. 10, 2014

8/13/2019 PaEnvironmentDigest Feb. 10, 2014

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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, tellinglawmakers that the $29.4 billion spending plan continues to drive the values of strategicinvestment and prudent fiscal management to address the Commonwealths core funding needs.

His 2014-15 budget proposal includes the Enhance Penns Woods initiative announced

Saturday, a 2-year, more than $200 million effort to repair and upgrade State Parks and StateForests through the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

The program includes $45 million in additional monies from interest on the GrowingGreener II bond funds and existing funding from the Keystone Recreation, Park andConservation Fund, Environmental Stewardship (Growing Greener) Fund and the Dirt andGravel Road Program.

The budget proposal also relies on additional leasing of natural gas rights in State Foreststo generate $75 million more in revenue to DCNRs Oil and Gas Lease Fund. The GovernorsBudget Secretary Charles Zogby said additional leasing would be near existing drilling sites andgas 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 electionimposing a moratorium on leasing additional State Forest land. The Rendell Administrationleased 137,000 acres of State Forest land for Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling.

No reduction in DCNRs complement was proposed The Governors budget proposes to reduce the complement of the Department of

Environmental by another 66 positions to 2,663. Over the last 12 years, DEPs 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 andRestoration funding allocation from the Environmental Stewardship (Growing Greener) Fund aswell 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 Fundsupport, 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
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-- $500,000 cut to Household Hazardous Waste Program, 50 percent-- $43.8 million in Environmental Stewardship Funds going to pay Growing Greener II bonddebt service.Context: DEP General Fund budget in FY 2002-03 was $245.6 million, now reduced to $139.9million, 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, inGeneral Fund support from $30 million to $27 million. $117.4 million in funding for generalagency 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 outContext: DCNR General Fund budget in FY 2002-03 was $108.8 million, now reduced to $27million. 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 outContext: Agricultures General Fund budget in FY 2002 -03 was $76.1 million million, in FY2014-15 budget is $123.8 million. Total funding from all sources in FY 2002-03 was $213.8million and in FY 2014- 15 is $313.3 million. There was no decrease in Agriculturescomplement proposed for FY 2014-15.Marcellus Shale Legacy Fund: Total allocation from the Fund will be reduced to $113.9million 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 yearKeystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund: Total allocation from the Fund to DCNRwill 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 cutEnvironmental Hearing Board: 3.2 percent increase to $2.2 million from $2.1 million

Click Here for links to all the Governors budge t documents.Budget Hearings

Next week the General Assembly will begin public hearings on Gov. Corbetts budget
http://www.budget.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/current_and_proposed_commonwealth_budgets/4566http://www.budget.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/current_and_proposed_commonwealth_budgets/4566http://www.budget.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/current_and_proposed_commonwealth_budgets/4566


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request.The hearings on DCNRs budget will be held February 19 in the Senate and February 25

in the House. The hearings on DEPs budget wi ll both be held on February 18 in the Senate andFebruary 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 Penns Woods Initiative, $45M For State Parks, Fore sts

Gov. Corbetts proposed FY 2014 -15 budget includes the Enhance Penns Woods initiative, a 2 -year, more than $200 million effort to repair and upgrade State Parks and State Forests throughthe Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

The program includes $45 million in additional monies from interest on the GrowingGreener II bond funds and existing funding from the Keystone Recreation, Park andConservation Fund, Environmental Stewardship (Growing Greener) Fund and the Dirt andGravel Road Program.

There are so many ways to enjoy Pennsylvanias great outdoors. With such a variety ofunique activities world class fishing, hunting, hiking and one of my favorites, kayaking theres something for everyone in the Keystone State, Corbett said. As a strategic investmentin our future, well make the largest, short -term investment in state park and forest history toEnhance Penns Woods.

The initiative was unveiled during a tour of the Great American Outdoor Show inHarrisburg, where the Governor also purchased his fishing license.

The hunters, anglers, campers, hikers and outdoor enthusiasts of all types not only enjoyour natural treasures in Pennsylvania, but they also spend money in our local communities,Corbett said. This shor t-term investment will make sure we enjoy the long-term benefits of afirst class park and forest system such as healthy outdoor recreation, protecting our naturalresources and attracting residents, tourists and private investment to communities around thestate.

The Governor was joined for the announcement by DCNR Secretary Ellen Ferretti; Fishand Boat Commission Executive Director John Arway; and families with children who

participate in hunting and fishing.The vision of great conservation leaders in Pennsylvanias history has resulted in the
http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/http://triblive.com/state/marcellusshale/5535968-74/state-drilling-corbetthttp://triblive.com/state/marcellusshale/5535968-74/state-drilling-corbetthttp://thetimes-tribune.com/news/corbett-budget-reopens-drilling-issue-1.1628383http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/corbett-budget-reopens-drilling-issue-1.1628383http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-discusses-state-park-and-forest-drilling-proposal/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-discusses-state-park-and-forest-drilling-proposal/http://www.timesleader.com/news/news/1173446/Corbett-to-OK-gas-extraction-from-under-state-landhttp://www.timesleader.com/news/news/1173446/Corbett-to-OK-gas-extraction-from-under-state-landhttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140205_Corbett_wants_to_allow_gas_drilling_in_state_forests.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140205_Corbett_wants_to_allow_gas_drilling_in_state_forests.htmlhttp://blog.pennlive.com/pa-sportsman/2014/02/gov_tom_corbett_promises_45_million_more_for_state_park_and_state_forest_repairs_and_improvements.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://blog.pennlive.com/pa-sportsman/2014/02/gov_tom_corbett_promises_45_million_more_for_state_park_and_state_forest_repairs_and_improvements.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_budget_natural_gas_dri.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_budget_natural_gas_dri.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://lancasteronline.com/news/local/agriculture-programs-brace-for-hit-under-corbett-budget/article_7c43e8b0-8dde-11e3-bf4b-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://lancasteronline.com/news/local/agriculture-programs-brace-for-hit-under-corbett-budget/article_7c43e8b0-8dde-11e3-bf4b-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-proposes-drbc-funding-cut-as-gas-drilling-stalemate-continues/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-proposes-drbc-funding-cut-as-gas-drilling-stalemate-continues/http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://www.pecpa.org/release/pec-supports-restoration-oil-gas-lease-fundhttp://www.pecpa.org/release/pec-supports-restoration-oil-gas-lease-fundhttp://triblive.com/business/headlines/5540274-74/state-corbett-gashttp://triblive.com/business/headlines/5540274-74/state-corbett-gashttp://www.pennlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/02/marcellus_shale_tom_corbett_fracking_impact_fee_gasland_natural_gas_severance_tax_impact_fee_act_13.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.pennlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/02/marcellus_shale_tom_corbett_fracking_impact_fee_gasland_natural_gas_severance_tax_impact_fee_act_13.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.pennlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/02/marcellus_shale_tom_corbett_fracking_impact_fee_gasland_natural_gas_severance_tax_impact_fee_act_13.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://triblive.com/business/headlines/5540274-74/state-corbett-gashttp://www.pecpa.org/release/pec-supports-restoration-oil-gas-lease-fundhttp://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-proposes-drbc-funding-cut-as-gas-drilling-stalemate-continues/http://lancasteronline.com/news/local/agriculture-programs-brace-for-hit-under-corbett-budget/article_7c43e8b0-8dde-11e3-bf4b-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_budget_natural_gas_dri.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://blog.pennlive.com/pa-sportsman/2014/02/gov_tom_corbett_promises_45_million_more_for_state_park_and_state_forest_repairs_and_improvements.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140205_Corbett_wants_to_allow_gas_drilling_in_state_forests.htmlhttp://www.timesleader.com/news/news/1173446/Corbett-to-OK-gas-extraction-from-under-state-landhttp://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-discusses-state-park-and-forest-drilling-proposal/http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/corbett-budget-reopens-drilling-issue-1.1628383http://triblive.com/state/marcellusshale/5535968-74/state-drilling-corbetthttp://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/


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system of state parks and forests that Pennsylvanians enjoy and love today, Ferretti said. Ourmodern 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. Corbetts commitment to honor the legacy of our state parksand 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 parksand 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 visitorcenter 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, ChesterCounty; Chapman State Park, Warren County; Pymatuning State Park, Crawford County; andGouldsboro 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 andCaledonia 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 DCNRs track record of green buildings and sustainable features.

Enhance Penns 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 GrowingGreener II bond funds.

For each fiscal year, the infrastructure design and construction projects are expected tosupport almost 1,000 jobs in the engineering, architecture, landscape design, construction andother fields.

In addition to announcing Enhance Penns Woods, Gov. Corbett also unveiled thePennsylvania Outdoor Adventure Guide. Structured for outdoor enthusiasts, the 80-page guidehighlights an array of recreation opportunities across the Commonwealth, and convenientlycategorizes these adventures and activities.

Whether its launching a kayak in more than 86,000 miles of the states wild rivers andscenic streams or sliding down challenging runs at one of Pennsylvanias 21 ski resorts, theguide 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 Guidehighlights the many unique tourism destinatio ns that beckon visitors to Pennsylvanias naturalyear- round playground.

This first-of-its-kind guide represents the beginning of a unique collaboration among theDepartment of Community and Economic Development, the Department of Agriculture, theDepartment of Conservation and Natural Resources, the Game Commission, and the Fish & BoatCommission.


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Pennsylvania has 120 state parks totaling almost 300,000 acres, and 2.2 million acres in20 state forest districts. Visitors to Pennsylvania state parks generate more than a billion dollarsin 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 itwould be premature for DCNR and the Governor to proceed with the proposal to lease additionalDCNR land for natural gas drilling until significant questions about the environmental impact ofexisting drilling on DCNR land is finished and the best management practices employed to limitthose 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 Fundfor DCNRs 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 onleasing additional DCNR land for natural gas development to generate $75 million more inrevenue for DCNRs Oil and Gas Lease Fund. The Governors Budget Secretary Charles Zogby said additional leasing would be near existing drilling sites and gas companies would not beallowed to construct new well pads.

Secretary Zogby said Gov. Corbett would be issuing a new Executive Order to replacethe Executive Order Gov. Rendell issued in 2010 a few days before the gubernatorial electionimposing a moratorium on leasing additional State Forest land. The Rendell Administrationleased 137,000 acres of State Forest land for Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling before themoratorium 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 theimpacts analysis being prepared by DCNR of current natural gas operations on state land, saidDavitt Woodwell, Executive Vice President of PEC. We do not have a comprehensiveunderstanding 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
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e-corbett-gashttp://www.pecpa.org/release/pec-supports-restoration-oil-gas-lease-fundhttp://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-proposes-drbc-funding-cut-as-gas-drilling-stalemate-continues/http://lancasteronline.com/news/local/agriculture-programs-brace-for-hit-under-corbett-budget/article_7c43e8b0-8dde-11e3-bf4b-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_budget_natural_gas_dri.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://blog.pennlive.com/pa-sportsman/2014/02/gov_tom_corbett_promises_45_million_more_for_state_park_and_state_forest_repairs_and_improvements.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140205_Corbett_wants_to_allow_gas_drilling_in_state_forests.htmlhttp://www.timesleader.com/news/news/1173446/Corbett-to-OK-gas-extraction-from-under-state-landhttp://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-discusses-state-park-and-forest-drilling-proposal/http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/corbett-budget-reopens-drilling-issue-1.1628383http://triblive.com/state/marcellusshale/5535968-74/state-drilling-corbetthttp://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/


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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 informedconsideration, Woodwell explained.

He said DCNR formed the Natural Gas Advisory Committee to provide advice andexpertise 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 thisdeliberation can take place, said Woodwell.

A copy of the letter is available online . For more information, visit PECs Marcellus Shale webpage.Budget Hearings

Next week the General Assembly will begin public hearings on Gov. Corbetts budgetrequest. The hearin g on DCNRs budget will be held February 19 in the Senate and February 25in 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 drillingrevenue to be accrued via the lifting of a moratorium on further leasing of state park and forestlands for gas development.

"This will place more and more of the budget burden on the backs of public lands," saidCindy Dunn, president and chief executive officer of PennFuture . "In announcing that he seeksto lift a three-year-old moratorium to expand leasing of public lands for gas development, thegovernor reveals the short-sighted nature of his stewardship of our natural resources by tradingmore 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 drillingtax on natural gas development, Gov. Corbett is making the general fund reliant on the rapidexploitation of resources that he should, instead, be conserving for this and future generations,"continued Dunn.
http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/NaturalGas/ngadvisorycomm/index.htmhttp://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/NaturalGas/ngadvisorycomm/index.htmhttp://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/NaturalGas/ngadvisorycomm/index.htmhttp://www.pecpa.org/sites/pecpa.org/files/pec_letter_to_dcnr._6_feb_2014.pdfhttp://www.pecpa.org/sites/pecpa.org/files/pec_letter_to_dcnr._6_feb_2014.pdfhttp://www.pecpa.org/sites/pecpa.org/files/pec_letter_to_dcnr._6_feb_2014.pdfhttp://marcellus.pecpa.org/http://marcellus.pecpa.org/http://marcellus.pecpa.org/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/http://triblive.com/state/marcellusshale/5535968-74/state-drilling-corbetthttp://triblive.com/state/marcellusshale/5535968-74/state-drilling-corbetthttp://thetimes-tribune.com/news/corbett-budget-reopens-drilling-issue-1.1628383http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/corbett-budget-reopens-drilling-issue-1.1628383http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-discusses-state-park-and-forest-drilling-proposal/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-discusses-state-park-and-forest-drilling-proposal/http://www.timesleader.com/news/news/1173446/Corbett-to-OK-gas-extraction-from-under-state-landhttp://www.timesleader.com/news/news/1173446/Corbett-to-OK-gas-extraction-from-under-state-landhttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140205_Corbett_wants_to_allow_gas_drilling_in_state_forests.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140205_Corbett_wants_to_allow_gas_drilling_in_state_forests.htmlhttp://blog.pennlive.com/pa-sportsman/2014/02/gov_tom_corbett_promises_45_million_more_for_state_park_and_state_forest_repairs_and_improvements.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://blog.pennlive.com/pa-sportsman/2014/02/gov_tom_corbett_promises_45_million_more_for_state_park_and_state_forest_repairs_and_improvements.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_budget_natural_gas_dri.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_budget_natural_gas_dri.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://lancasteronline.com/news/local/agriculture-programs-brace-for-hit-under-corbett-budget/article_7c43e8b0-8dde-11e3-bf4b-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://lancasteronline.com/news/local/agriculture-programs-brace-for-hit-under-corbett-budget/article_7c43e8b0-8dde-11e3-bf4b-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-proposes-drbc-funding-cut-as-gas-drilling-stalemate-continues/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-proposes-drbc-funding-cut-as-gas-drilling-stalemate-continues/http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://www.pecpa.org/release/pec-supports-restoration-oil-gas-lease-fundhttp://www.pecpa.org/release/pec-supports-restoration-oil-gas-lease-fundhttp://triblive.com/business/headlines/5540274-74/state-corbett-gashttp://triblive.com/business/headlines/5540274-74/state-corbett-gashttp://www.pennlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/02/marcellus_shale_tom_corbett_fracking_impact_fee_gasland_natural_gas_severance_tax_impact_fee_act_13.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.pennlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/02/marcellus_shale_tom_corbett_fracking_impact_fee_gasland_natural_gas_severance_tax_impact_fee_act_13.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.pennfuture.org/http://www.pennfuture.org/http://www.pennfuture.org/http://www.pennfuture.org/http://www.pennlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/02/marcellus_shale_tom_corbett_fracking_impact_fee_gasland_natural_gas_severance_tax_impact_fee_act_13.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://triblive.com/business/headlines/5540274-74/state-corbett-gashttp://www.pecpa.org/release/pec-supports-restoration-oil-gas-lease-fundhttp://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-proposes-drbc-funding-cut-as-gas-drilling-stalemate-continues/http://lancasteronline.com/news/local/agriculture-programs-brace-for-hit-under-corbett-budget/article_7c43e8b0-8dde-11e3-bf4b-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_budget_natural_gas_dri.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://blog.pennlive.com/pa-sportsman/2014/02/gov_tom_corbett_promises_45_million_more_for_state_park_and_state_forest_repairs_and_improvements.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140205_Corbett_wants_to_allow_gas_drilling_in_state_forests.htmlhttp://www.timesleader.com/news/news/1173446/Corbett-to-OK-gas-extraction-from-under-state-landhttp://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-discusses-state-park-and-forest-drilling-proposal/http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/corbett-budget-reopens-drilling-issue-1.1628383http://triblive.com/state/marcellusshale/5535968-74/state-drilling-corbetthttp://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/http://marcellus.pecpa.org/http://www.pecpa.org/sites/pecpa.org/files/pec_letter_to_dcnr._6_feb_2014.pdfhttp://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/forestry/NaturalGas/ngadvisorycomm/index.htm


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Also of concern is the diversion of $117.5 million from the state's Oil and Gas LeaseFund (OGLF) as operational budget monies for the Department of Conservation and NaturalResources (DCNR), the largest replacement of general funds with oil and gas lease funds in theDCNR budget to date. The OGLF was originally designated for conservation, recreation andflood control programs in state parks and forests.

"The paradox of funding the state's flagship conservation agency with funds from non-renewable resources is inescapable," said Dunn.The Governors 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 gubernatorialelection imposing a moratorium on leasing additional State Forest land. The RendellAdministration 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 Governors Budget Proposal

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation-PA Friday issued the following statement from PennsylvaniaExecutive Director Harry Campbell in response to Gov. Corbetts 2014 -15 budget proposal:

The Chesapeake Bay Foundation is pleased that Gov. Corbetts budget proposalemphasizes investments in clean water and a healthy environment by ensuring that importantconservation programs continue to be fully funded. Currently there are roughly 19,000 miles ofrivers and streams that fail to meet clean water standards. And while notable progress has beenmade, we can and must do better. Continued investment in the conservation programs thatimprove water quality is critical, and will create jobs and stimulate local economies.

Funding for one such program, Growing Greener, remains intact. Growing Greenergrants are needed for on-the-ground efforts to help achieve the Chesapeake Bay Blueprint and toreduce pollution in our local rivers and streams.

TheGrowing Greener program has played a vital role in improving water quality in theCommonwealth for well over a decade now. The importance of this funding source cannot beover-stated, and the clean water successes that have resulted from the program are to becelebrated.
http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/http://triblive.com/state/marcellusshale/5535968-74/state-drilling-corbetthttp://triblive.com/state/marcellusshale/5535968-74/state-drilling-corbetthttp://thetimes-tribune.com/news/corbett-budget-reopens-drilling-issue-1.1628383http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/corbett-budget-reopens-drilling-issue-1.1628383http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-discusses-state-park-and-forest-drilling-proposal/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-discusses-state-park-and-forest-drilling-proposal/http://www.timesleader.com/news/news/1173446/Corbett-to-OK-gas-extraction-from-under-state-landhttp://www.timesleader.com/news/news/1173446/Corbett-to-OK-gas-extraction-from-under-state-landhttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140205_Corbett_wants_to_allow_gas_drilling_in_state_forests.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140205_Corbett_wants_to_allow_gas_drilling_in_state_forests.htmlhttp://blog.pennlive.com/pa-sportsman/2014/02/gov_tom_corbett_promises_45_million_more_for_state_park_and_state_forest_repairs_and_improvements.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://blog.pennlive.com/pa-sportsman/2014/02/gov_tom_corbett_promises_45_million_more_for_state_park_and_state_forest_repairs_and_improvements.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_budget_natural_gas_dri.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_budget_natural_gas_dri.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://lancasteronline.com/news/local/agriculture-programs-brace-for-hit-under-corbett-budget/article_7c43e8b0-8dde-11e3-bf4b-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://lancasteronline.com/news/local/agriculture-programs-brace-for-hit-under-corbett-budget/article_7c43e8b0-8dde-11e3-bf4b-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-proposes-drbc-funding-cut-as-gas-drilling-stalemate-continues/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-proposes-drbc-funding-cut-as-gas-drilling-stalemate-continues/http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://www.pecpa.org/release/pec-supports-restoration-oil-gas-lease-fundhttp://www.pecpa.org/release/pec-supports-restoration-oil-gas-lease-fundhttp://triblive.com/business/headlines/5540274-74/state-corbett-gashttp://triblive.com/business/headlines/5540274-74/state-corbett-gashttp://www.pennlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/02/marcellus_shale_tom_corbett_fracking_impact_fee_gasland_natural_gas_severance_tax_impact_fee_act_13.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.pennlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/02/marcellus_shale_tom_corbett_fracking_impact_fee_gasland_natural_gas_severance_tax_impact_fee_act_13.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.cbf.org/pahttp://www.cbf.org/pahttp://www.cbf.org/pahttp://www.cbf.org/pahttp://www.pennlive.com/opinion/index.ssf/2014/02/marcellus_shale_tom_corbett_fracking_impact_fee_gasland_natural_gas_severance_tax_impact_fee_act_13.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://triblive.com/business/headlines/5540274-74/state-corbett-gashttp://www.pecpa.org/release/pec-supports-restoration-oil-gas-lease-fundhttp://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-proposes-drbc-funding-cut-as-gas-drilling-stalemate-continues/http://lancasteronline.com/news/local/agriculture-programs-brace-for-hit-under-corbett-budget/article_7c43e8b0-8dde-11e3-bf4b-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_budget_natural_gas_dri.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://blog.pennlive.com/pa-sportsman/2014/02/gov_tom_corbett_promises_45_million_more_for_state_park_and_state_forest_repairs_and_improvements.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140205_Corbett_wants_to_allow_gas_drilling_in_state_forests.htmlhttp://www.timesleader.com/news/news/1173446/Corbett-to-OK-gas-extraction-from-under-state-landhttp://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/07/corbett-discusses-state-park-and-forest-drilling-proposal/http://thetimes-tribune.com/news/corbett-budget-reopens-drilling-issue-1.1628383http://triblive.com/state/marcellusshale/5535968-74/state-drilling-corbetthttp://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/http://stateimpact.npr.org/pennsylvania/2014/02/04/corbett-budget-proposal-expands-drilling-in-state-parks-and-forests/


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Additionally, we are optimistic to see that the Governor proposes an increase of $31.8million into funding for the Department of Environmental Protection management programs.

CBF will, over the next few months be working with the Governo r and legislature toensure that the Commonwealth continues to make the needed investments in local rivers andstreams, 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 fromExecutive Director Andrew Heath in response to Gov. Corbetts 2014 -15 budget proposal:

The Pennsylvania Growing G reener Coalition is grateful that the Governor recognizesthe importance of maintaining the programs that protect and restore our drinking water, preserveour farms and open spaces, and provide recreational opportunities.

"We appreciate that the Governors proposed budget appears to leave intact funding forcritical programs such as Growing Greener, Keystone 93 and Historic and AgriculturePreservation.

However, the Coalition has grave concerns about the elimination of funding for theHeritage Areas Pro gram, which has successfully conserved and enhanced the states naturalresources and promoted tourism development for nearly 25 years.

The Legislature rightly rescued this important program last year, and we are surprisedand disappointed that it is slated for the chopping block again this year.

The Coalition looks forward to working with the Corbett Administration and membersof the House and Senate to restore funding for the Heritage Areas Program, which creates jobsand 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 hisinvestment of $3.3 million from the General Fund to support county conservation districts.

On behalf of the states conservation distri cts, we sincerely thank Gov. Corbett and hisadministration for recognizing the contribution we make in supporting local agriculture, theeconomy and infrastructure improvement projects for our residents, said Brandi Hunter -Davenport, PACD Director of Ed ucation. We knew this was going to be a tough budget yearand appreciate the administrations stance, seeing the expertise and value we bring to enhancingquality of life measures throughout the commonwealth.
http://www.bayjournal.com/article/21_states_8_counties_join_farm_bureau_challenge_to_bay_tmdlhttp://www.bayjournal.com/article/21_states_8_counties_join_farm_bureau_challenge_to_bay_tmdlhttp://www.post-gazette.com/news/nation/2014/02/06/21-states-join-fight-to-halt-Chesapeake-Bay-cleanup/stories/201402060224http://www.post-gazette.com/news/nation/2014/02/06/21-states-join-fight-to-halt-Chesapeake-Bay-cleanup/stories/201402060224http://lancasteronline.com/news/local/lancaster-county-joins-fight-against-epa-in-setting-pollution-limits/article_1cbdb8bc-8dd9-11e3-9264-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://lancasteronline.com/news/local/lancaster-county-joins-fight-against-epa-in-setting-pollution-limits/article_1cbdb8bc-8dd9-11e3-9264-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://www.tribune-democrat.com/local/x1782769216/Rooftop-garden-in-works-at-Art-Workshttp://www.tribune-democrat.com/local/x1782769216/Rooftop-garden-in-works-at-Art-Workshttp://www.montgomerynews.com/articles/2014/02/07/north_penn_life/news/doc52f12fe6d6a58403724709.txthttp://www.montgomerynews.com/articles/2014/02/07/north_penn_life/news/doc52f12fe6d6a58403724709.txthttp://triblive.com/news/adminpage/5555622-74/alcosan-department-billion#axzz2scwKOvojhttp://triblive.com/news/adminpage/5555622-74/alcosan-department-billion#axzz2scwKOvojhttp://pagrowinggreener.org/http://pagrowinggreener.org/http://pagrowinggreener.org/http://pagrowinggreener.org/http://pagrowinggreener.org/http://pagrowinggreener.org/http://pacd.org/http://pacd.org/http://pacd.org/http://pacd.org/http://pagrowinggreener.org/http://pagrowinggreener.org/http://triblive.com/news/adminpage/5555622-74/alcosan-department-billion#axzz2scwKOvojhttp://www.montgomerynews.com/articles/2014/02/07/north_penn_life/news/doc52f12fe6d6a58403724709.txthttp://www.tribune-democrat.com/local/x1782769216/Rooftop-garden-in-works-at-Art-Workshttp://www.publicnewsservice.org/2014-02-04/water/group-urges-corbett-to-include-clean-water-investments-in-budget-plan/a37333-1http://lancasteronline.com/news/local/lancaster-county-joins-fight-against-epa-in-setting-pollution-limits/article_1cbdb8bc-8dd9-11e3-9264-0017a43b2370.htmlhttp://www.post-gazette.com/news/nation/2014/02/06/21-states-join-fight-to-halt-Chesapeake-Bay-cleanup/stories/201402060224http://www.bayjournal.com/article/21_states_8_counties_join_farm_bureau_challenge_to_bay_tmdl


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Conservation districts implement several programs on behalf of the state. One of the mostnotable is the Erosion and Sediment Control (Chapter 102 or NPDES [National PollutantDischarge 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, district s also conduct permitting for PennDOT projects at no

charge to their department. These two aspects combined resulted in a loss of an estimated $3.3million to the districts bottom lines. Now, with the line items included in the state budget at $3.3million, we will be able to continue tackling these permit workloads, resulting in more efficiencyfor current infrastructure projects as well as those to be undertaken with the influx of workcoming as a result of the comprehensive transportation bill and PennD OTs Public -PrivateTransportation Partnership (P3) legislation, added Hunter -Davenport.

Every day, conservation districts are on the front lines of conservation efforts throughoutthe commonwealth. They implement projects and environmental programs to preserve their

individual pockets of Pennsylvania. Collectively, these locally-led efforts support the wise use ofthe states 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 yourGoogle+ page and search for [email protected] , the email for the Digest EditorDavid 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.

Youll 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 storiesand announcements on environmental topics in Pennsylvania of immediate value. Sign up andreceive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for aonce 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 theyare posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once dailyemail 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
http://www.pacd.org/http://www.pacd.org/http://www.pacd.org/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.crisciassociates.com/http://www.crisciassociates.com/http://www.crisciassociates.com/http://www.twitter.com/http://www.twitter.com/http://www.crisciassociates.com/category/environment-blog/http://www.crisciassociates.com/category/environment-blog/http://www.crisciassociates.com/category/capitol-blog/http://www.crisciassociates.com/category/capitol-blog/http://www.twitter.com/PaCapitolDigesthttp://www.twitter.com/PaCapitolDigesthttp://www.twitter.com/PaCapitolDigesthttp://www.crisciassociates.com/category/capitol-blog/http://www.crisciassociates.com/category/environment-blog/http://www.twitter.com/http://www.crisciassociates.com/mailto:[email protected]://www.pacd.org/


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Twitter feed to get instant updates on other news from in and around the Pennsylvania StateCapitol.

Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule/Bills Introduced

Here are the Senate and House Calendars and Committee meetings showing bills of interest aswell as a list of new environmental bills introduced--

Bill Calendars

House (March 10): House Resolution 583 (Molchany-D-Allegheny) designating January 13-19Mt. Washington Emerald View Park Trail Week-- sponsor summary . Click Here for fullHouse Bill Calendar.

Senate (March 10): Senate Bill 411 (Kasunic-D-Somerset) encouraging the reuse of minedrainage and mine pool water for drilling operations; Senate Bill 771 (Gordner-R-Columbia)

establishing the State Geospatial Coordinating Board. Click Here for full Senate BillCalendar.

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 StateGovernment 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: Governors Budget Office,Independent Fiscal Office, Attorney General, Auditor General, Public UtilityCommission. 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 ineach--

House Appropriations Education Environmental Resources and Energy Consumer Affairs Gaming Oversight Human Services Judiciary Liquor Control Transportation
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=R&bn=0583http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=R&bn=0583http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=R&bn=0583http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13776http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13776http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13776http://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/SC/HC/0/RC/SCHC.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/SC/HC/0/RC/SCHC.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/SC/HC/0/RC/SCHC.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=411http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=411http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=411http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=0771http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=0771http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=0771http://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/SC/SC/0/RC/CAL.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/SC/SC/0/RC/CAL.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/SC/SC/0/RC/CAL.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1503http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1503http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1503http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=12818http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=12818http://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/CO/HM/COHM.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/CO/HM/COHM.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/CO/SM/COSM.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/CO/SM/COSM.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=4&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=4&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=12&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=12&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=8&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=8&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=10&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=10&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=54&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=54&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=56&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=56&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=24&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=24&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=28&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=28&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=38&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=38&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=38&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=28&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=24&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=56&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=54&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=10&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=8&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=12&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=4&CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/CO/SM/COSM.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/CO/HM/COHM.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=12818http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1503http://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/SC/SC/0/RC/CAL.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/SC/SC/0/RC/CAL.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=0771http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=411http://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/SC/HC/0/RC/SCHC.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/WU01/LI/SC/HC/0/RC/SCHC.HTMhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13776http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=R&bn=0583


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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 plantsize limitation on funding for pollution control equipment under the Alternative EnergyInvestment Act-- sponsor summary .

Session Schedule

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

House February - Budget HearingsMarch 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 31April 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 28, 29, 30May 5, 6, 7June 2, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 19, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30

Senate February - Budget HearingsMarch 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 31April 1, 2, 7, 8, 9, 28, 29, 30May 5, 6, 7June 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
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/StandingCommittees.cfm?CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/StandingCommittees.cfm?CteeBody=Hhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=3&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=3&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=9&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=9&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=7&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=7&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=31&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=31&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=23&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=23&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=39&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=39&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=29&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=29&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=33&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=33&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=19&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=19&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/StandingCommittees.cfm?CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/StandingCommittees.cfm?CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1763http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1763http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1763http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13809http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13809http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13809http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13809http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1763http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/StandingCommittees.cfm?CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=19&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=33&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=29&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=39&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=23&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=31&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=7&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=9&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/index.cfm?Code=3&CteeBody=Shttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/CteeInfo/StandingCommittees.cfm?CteeBody=H


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ATV/Snowmobile Trails: House Bill 1913 (Sankey-R-Clearfield) providing for propergrooming and maintenance of ATV and snowmobile trails-- sponsor summary -- was reported outof the House Transportation Committee and referred to the House Tourism and RecreationalDevelopment Committee.

Emerald View Trail Week: House Resolution 583 (Molchany-D-Allegheny) designatingJanuary 13-19 Mt. Washington Emerald View Park Trail Week-- sponsor summary -- wasamended and reported out of the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee and ison the House Calendar for action.

Senate

Fertilizer Application: Senate Bill 1149 (Brubaker-R-Lancaster) regulating the application offertilizer on lawns, golf courses and athletic fields-- sponsor summary -- was amended andreported out of the Senate Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee and is now on the SenateCalendar 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 andexemplary work being done in state parks and forests with the announcement of its 2014 awardwinners.

The winners will be recognized at a special awards banquet on May 6 at the West ShoreCountry Club in Harrisburg. Call 717-236-7644 or send email to: [email protected] formore information and sponsorship opportunities.

The Pennsylvania Parks and Forests Foundation enacted the awards program tocelebrate 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 andForests Foundation. These dedicated staff and volunteers are the lifeblood of our award-winning park and forest system and we please to recognize and celebrate theiraccomplishments.

This years winners will be honored at the 8th annual banquet on May 6 at the WestShore Country Club in Camp Hill. Sponsorships for awards are still available.

This years award winners include -- Cliff Jones Keystone Legacy Award: Caren Glotfelty : This top honor recognizes anoutstanding 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 movementthroughout her long career. Her distinguished career in environmental stewardship has included promoting smart growth, clean air and water, green building initiatives, and sustainabledevelopment in Pennsylvania in a variety of roles. She was a major strategist in the production ofthe Brookings Institution study, Back to Prosperity. Caren spent the early years of her careerworking in Pennsylvania and Maryland state government on land use and water quality policyand planning issues, becoming the first Deputy Secretary for Water Management inPennsylvania.
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1913http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1913http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1913http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=12046http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=12046http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=12046http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=R&bn=0583http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=R&bn=0583http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=R&bn=0583http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13776http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13776http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13776http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=1149http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=1149http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=1149http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=S&SPick=20130&cosponId=12424http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=S&SPick=20130&cosponId=12424http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=S&SPick=20130&cosponId=12424http://www.paparksandforests.org/http://www.paparksandforests.org/http://www.paparksandforests.org/mailto:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]:[email protected]://www.paparksandforests.org/http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=S&SPick=20130&cosponId=12424http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=S&type=B&bn=1149http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=13776http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=R&bn=0583http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/Legis/CSM/showMemoPublic.cfm?chamber=H&SPick=20130&cosponId=12046http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billInfo/billInfo.cfm?sYear=2013&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1913


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-- Presidents 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, andrecently 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 inthe stewardship of Pennsylvanias state park and forest system. Bushkill Township is beinghonored for its work with the Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center to protect importantnatural areas and water resources in the area, benefitting the ecological resources in the park andthe education center.

Park of the Year: Prince Gallitzin State Park: This award recognizes a park for exemplaryor innovative work in any or all of the following: customer service; education; programming orrecreation; stewardship of the natural, cultural, or historic assets; and/or accommodation ofspecial needs of visitors. The park produces generous environmental education programming forthe public and local schools and publishes an e-newsletter three times a year. Its annual AppleCider Festival draws up to 17,000 people each year.

Forest of the Year: Gallitzin State Forest: This award recognizes a forest district forinnovative and exemplary work in both forest management and recreation for a wide range ofactivities. In recent years, the staff of the Gallitzin has created new healthful, low-densityrecreation, while maintaining forest ecosystem integrity. In addition to improving habitat andforest conditions, staff have focused on improving public access, assistance, and safety, whileeffectively using volunteers to enhance recreational programming, planning and developmentactivities.

Three awards given for recognition of achievements made by friends groups. Improvements Award: Kathy and Gary Diegan: The Diegans worked to improve thelandscape at the spillway of Pymatuning State Park, contributing a combined average of 20 hoursa week April October during the past four years. A botanist and multiple-handicap classroomteacher, Kathy also assists visitors with special needs who frequent the Spillway.

Volunteerism Award: Friends of Gifford Pinchot State Park: This group raised funds andworked on a number of improvements throughout the park in 2013, including benches and picnictable replacements, turtle basking platforms and porcupine crib fish habitat structures, trailmaintenance and installing two playgrounds toward a three-phase playground replacement goal.

Education Award: Promised Land Nature Center Volunteers: Started 30 years ago,Promised Lands Nature Arts & Crafts program is one of the Parks most popular programs. Lastyear program volunteers donated over 3,100 hours of volunteer time presenting 5 7 themedcrafts for an average of 135 participants per week.

Young Volunteer Award: Eleanor Davis: This award is designed to show appreciation of asignificant 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 helpedorganize an adaptive recreation day for wounded service members. She has also interned withthe National Parks Conservation Association and the George Washington University Office ofSustainability.

For more information, visit the PA Parks and Forests Foundation website.

State, Federal Government, Utilities Respond To Winter Storm Emergency
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Gov. Tom Corbett Wednesday signed a disaster emergency proclamation to assist state and localauthorities in responding to an ice and snow storm that has damaged infrastructure, slowed travelacross 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 Thursda y, President Obama followed the Governors action by signing aPennsylvania emergency declaration . The Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency is

authorized to provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures to save lives andto 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 inPennsylvania, Gov. Corbett said. This will be a days -long recovery process, and wereutilizing this disaster declaration to speed up state assistance to all affected parts of t he 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 time-consuming 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 availabledisaster 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 stemmingfrom 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 thestress related to the circumstances surrounding the severe weather damage caused by the recentice and snow storm. Trained professionals will take phone calls to provide emotional support forcallers. The TTY number for deaf or hearing impaired individuals is 1-800-846-8517. Help isalso 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 nocharge 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 Yesterdays ice and snow storm now ranks as the second most devastating storm in

PECOs history, behind only Hurricane Sandy. Service was interrupted to approximately650,000 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 aswe can.

More than 3,500 PECO employees, contractors and workers from utilities as far away asArkansas, New Brunswick, Canada, Illinois, Massachusetts, New York and Ohio and PECOsChicago-based sister utility ComEd, will work around-the-clock to repair damage and restoreservice to customers as part of this monumental effort.

AG Warns Of Storm-Related Scams Attorney General Kathleen G. Kane Thursday cautioned both Pennsylvania consumers
http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/02/06/president-obama-signs-pennsylvania-emergency-declarationhttp://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/02/06/president-obama-signs-pennsylvania-emergency-declarationhttp://www.pema.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/governors_proclamations/4725http://www.pema.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/governors_proclamations/4725http://www.pema.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/governors_proclamations/4725http://www.pema.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/disaster_assistance/4687http://www.pema.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/disaster_assistance/4687http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/water-and-ice-available-to-those-in-met-ed-areas-in-pennsylvania-without-power-due-to-winter-storm-244042141.htmlhttp://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/water-and-ice-available-to-those-in-met-ed-areas-in-pennsylvania-without-power-due-to-winter-storm-244042141.htmlhttps://www.pplelectric.com/my-account/outage-center/ice-and-water-locations.aspxhttps://www.pplelectric.com/my-account/outage-center/ice-and-water-locations.aspxhttps://www.pplelectric.com/my-account/outage-center/ice-and-water-locations.aspxhttp://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/water-and-ice-available-to-those-in-met-ed-areas-in-pennsylvania-without-power-due-to-winter-storm-244042141.htmlhttp://www.pema.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/disaster_assistance/4687http://www.pema.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/governors_proclamations/4725http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2014/02/06/president-obama-signs-pennsylvania-emergency-declaration


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and businesses about price gouging and other weather-related scams after a State of Emergencywas declared last evening by the Governor.

"Pennsylvania consumers are protected from unwarranted, sudden price increases duringemergencies," Attorney General Kane said. "My office will accept complaints from consumersand businesses and violators of these protections will be held accountable."

The price-gouging restrictions prohibit anyone involved in the sale or distribution ofconsumer goods or services from 'unconscionably excessive' increases above average pricesduring 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 asimproved phone and personal-alert systems.

The redesigned website, which works on both computers and mobile devices, providesfree, 24-hour travel information for thousands of miles of state roads including the PennsylvaniaTurnpike.

Users who opt to get their traveler information on the phone will find an easier-to-usesystem 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 511PAfrom 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 onWednesday wreaked havoc on many parts of the state.

Game Commission personnel have been helping to man the State Emergency OperationsCenter and allocate equipment and manpower to the relief response. The agency also has sent 27of its Food & Cover Corps employees to Chester County to help remove fallen trees and enableutility workers to reach and repair power lines.

Many of our own employees and their families continue to be affected by the aftermathof this severe winter storm, and we certainly are proud to do our part in providing relief, saidMatt 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
http://www.attorneygeneral.gov/press.aspx?id=7450http://www.attorneygeneral.gov/press.aspx?id=7450http://www.511pa.com/http://www.511pa.com/http://www.511pa.com/http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_signs_disaster_emergen.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/corbett_signs_disaster_emergen.html#incart_river_defaulthttp://www.philly.com/philly/news/20140207_A_day_later__region_struggles_to_recover.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/news/20140207_A_day_later__region_struggles_to_recover.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/news/More_than_284k_Peco_customers_still_without_power.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/news/More_than_284k_Peco_customers_still_without_power.htmlhttp://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/met-ed-winter-storm-update-244331321.htmlhttp://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/met-ed-winter-storm-update-244331321.htmlhttp://www.witf.org/news/2014/02/more-than-451000-pennsylvanians-remain-without-power.phphttp://www.witf.org/news/2014/02/more-than-451000-pennsylvanians-remain-without-power.phphttp://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/power_outage_ice_storm.html#incart_m-rpt-2http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/power_outage_ice_storm.html#incart_m-rpt-2http://www.philly.com/philly/news/20140207_Now_crew_of_5_000_will_tackle_power_outages.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/news/20140207_Now_crew_of_5_000_will_tackle_power_outages.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/news/20140207_More_than_400_000_Peco_customers_still_without_power.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/news/20140207_More_than_400_000_Peco_customers_still_without_power.htmlhttp://blog.pennlive.com/capitol-notebook/2014/02/top_utility_regulator_says_pow.htmlhttp://blog.pennlive.com/capitol-notebook/2014/02/top_utility_regulator_says_pow.htmlhttp://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/residents_struggle_as_power_is.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/residents_struggle_as_power_is.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2014/02/06/gov-corbett-tours-storm-ravaged-montgomery-county/http://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2014/02/06/gov-corbett-tours-storm-ravaged-montgomery-county/http://www.witf.org/news/2014/02/attorney-general-kane-warns-of-winter-storm-price-gouging-and-scams.phphttp://www.witf.org/news/2014/02/attorney-general-kane-warns-of-winter-storm-price-gouging-and-scams.phphttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140206_Peco___quot_It_s_going_to_be_a_rough_couple_of_days__quot_.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140206_Peco___quot_It_s_going_to_be_a_rough_couple_of_days__quot_.htmlhttp://www.witf.org/news/2014/02/electric-utilities-call-in-extra-help.phphttp://www.witf.org/news/2014/02/electric-utilities-call-in-extra-help.phphttp://www.witf.org/news/2014/02/electric-utilities-call-in-extra-help.phphttp://www.philly.com/philly/business/homepage/20140206_Peco___quot_It_s_going_to_be_a_rough_couple_of_days__quot_.htmlhttp://www.witf.org/news/2014/02/attorney-general-kane-warns-of-winter-storm-price-gouging-and-scams.phphttp://philadelphia.cbslocal.com/2014/02/06/gov-corbett-tours-storm-ravaged-montgomery-county/http://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/residents_struggle_as_power_is.html#incart_m-rpt-1http://blog.pennlive.com/capitol-notebook/2014/02/top_utility_regulator_says_pow.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/news/20140207_More_than_400_000_Peco_customers_still_without_power.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/news/20140207_Now_crew_of_5_000_will_tackle_power_outages.htmlhttp://www.pennlive.com/midstate/index.ssf/2014/02/power_outage_ice_storm.html#incart_m-rpt-2http://www.witf.org/news/2014/02/more-than-451000-pennsylvanians-remain-without-power.phphttp://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/met-ed-winter-storm-update-244331321.htmlhttp://www.philly.com/philly/news/More_than_284k_Peco_cu

paenvironmentdigest feb. 10, 2014

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