PA Environment Digest

An Update On Environmental Issues In PA

Edited By: David E. Hess, Crisci Associates
Winner 2009 PAEE Business Partner Of The Year Award Harrisburg, Pa January 14, 2013

Feature: Mine Reclamation Groups Seek Allies In Natural Gas Industry By Susan Phillips, StateImpact Pennsylvania Andy McAllister is a pragmatic man, who has been working for years to help clean up one of Pennsylvanias most tenacious environmental problems, acid mine drainage resulting from decades of coal mining. But hes also a risk taker. In his spare time, the 50-year-old organizer for the Western Pennsylvania Coalition for Abandoned Mine Reclamation, rides bulls on the rodeo circuit. His church community prays for him, and scratch their heads at his enthusiasm for getting back on a bull after breaking several ribs. Its not what you think. McAllister says hes not macho, he rides bulls as part of his spiritual practice. Hes one of those rare people comfortable with his mortality, and has an almost Buddhist approach to the rodeo life. Now hes encouraging the gas industry to perform an environmental mitzvah. He wants Marcellus Shale drillers to help clean up the states multi-billion dollar problem 4,000 miles of dead rivers and streams unable to support any life. This is a good way of making lemonade out of lemons, says McAllister. The culprit in acid mine drainage is fools gold, or iron pyrite. Coal mining exposed large amounts of this mineral to air and water causing oxidation, the iron separates, and creates orange rivers and rust. The water that pools in the former coal mines becomes highly acidic, flows into rivers and streams, and kills aquatic life. The state is encouraging Marcellus Shale drillers to use this water to frack natural gas wells. Some of the water would stay deep underground, but the produced water that returns to the surface, would have to be treated. McAllister thinks this is a win-win. And he wants to take it further. Hes working to get the gas industry to provide acid mine water clean-up funds in perpetuity. The gas industry is not used to working with the environmental movement, says McAllister. He says hes been in contact with some drilling companies, but bringing them on board is a painstaking process. Still, he says its more promising than trying to secure adequate state and federal funds. Pennsylvanias Growing Greener grants have dried up. And each year, McAllister says he has to fight to keep federal lawmakers from balancing the budget by diverting mine reclamation dollars into the general fund. (StateImpact Pennsylvania wrote about this last month.)

This problem is so huge, even the state and feds cant fix it, says McAllister. Acid mine drainage clean-up today lies primarily in the hands of volunteer watershed groups. McAllister thinks that in exchange for free water, gas companies could donate to these organizations. In order to continue using this resource, the gas company could assist the watershed groups to create a better treatment system, says McAllister. The watershed group gets funding from the gas company for maintenance in perpetuity. McAllister realizes this marriage of convenience may not go over well with fractivists worried about gas drillers doing their own share of environmental damage. And he knows the gas drillers are wary of environmentalists. But he says hes not convinced that gas drilling will have as severe environmental consequences as some say. In the meantime, the damage done by the coal industry continues as a large, gaping wound. So, is McAllister having any luck with drillers so far? Theyre a business, says McAllister. They want to see if its worthwhile to them. (Reprinted from StateImpact Pennsylvania.) Senate Republicans Name Committee Members Senate President Pro Tempore Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson) Thursday announced the Republican members for each of the 22 Senate Standing Committees for the 2013-2014 legislative session. Senate Committees are the cornerstone of the Senate and provide a proven environment for legislation to be shaped and policies formed, Sen. Scarnati said. I am pleased that we have members with a great deal of expertise in numerous areas, who will evaluate and guide measures that will strengthen our Commonwealth. Click Here for the entire list. Below are members of some key committee-Environmental Resources & Energy Republicans: *Yaw-Chair, Erickson-Vice Chair, *Hutchinson, Vogel, *Ward, White Agriculture Republicans: Vogel-Chair, Waugh-Vice Chair, *Argall, Brubaker, Robbins, Yaw Appropriations Republicans: Corman-Chair, Tomlinson-Vice Chair, Argall, Baker, Brubaker, Gordner, Greenleaf, Mensch, Rafferty, Smucker, Vance, Vogel, *Vulakovich, Waugh Consumer Protection & Professional Licensure Republicans: Tomlinson-Chair, Gordner-Vice Chair, *Alloway, *Baker, Erickson, Greenleaf, Rafferty, *Vance *New to committee Senate Announces Budget Hearing Schedule

The Senate Appropriations Committee Friday announced the budget hearing schedule for the FY 2013-14 proposed budget. The first hearing starts February 19, after the Governors budget address on February 5. The hearings will be held-February 19-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30 Governors Budget Office; 1:00 Public Utility Commission; 3:00 Independent Fiscal Office-Economic Outlook & Revenue Overview. Hearing Room 1, North Office. February 25-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 3:00 Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Hearing Room 1, North Office. February 26-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 3:00 Department of Health. Hearing Room 1, North Office. February 27-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 2:30 Department of Environmental Protection. Hearing Room 1, North Office. March 5-- Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 3:00 Department of Agriculture. Hearing Room 1, North Office. The full schedule is available online. Did You Know You Can Search 8 Years Of Digests On Any Topic? Did you know you can search 8 years of back issues of the PA Environment Digest on dozens of topics, by county and on any key word you choose. Just click on the search page. Also take advantage of these related services from Crisci Associates-PA Environment Digest Twitter Feed: On Twitter, sign up to receive instant updates from: PAEnviroDigest. PA Environment Daily Blog: provides daily environmental NewsClips and significant stories and announcements on environmental topics in Pennsylvania of immediate value. Sign up and receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. PA Environment Digest Video Blog: showcases original and published videos from environmental groups and agencies around the state. Sign up to receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS read. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. PA Capitol Digest Daily Blog to get updates every day on Pennsylvania State Government, including NewsClips, coverage of key press conferences and more. Sign up and receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog.

PA Capitol Digest Twitter Feed: Don't forget to sign up to receive the PA Capitol Digest Twitter feed to get instant updates on other news from in and around the Pennsylvania State Capitol. Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule/Bills Introduced Here are the Senate and House Calendars and Committee meetings showing bills of interest as well as a list of new environmental bills introduced-Session Schedule Here is the latest voting session schedule for the Senate and House-Senate January 22, 23, 28, 29, 30 February 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13 March 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20 April 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 29, 30 May 1, 6, 7, 8, 9, 13, 14 June 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 House January 14, 15, 16, 22, 23 February 4, 5, 6, 11, 12, 13 March 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20 April 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 17, 22, 23, 24 May 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15 June 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 20, 24, 25, 26, 27, 28 Bill Calendars House Majority Leader Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny) said members of the House will continue the organization process for the 2013-14 legislative session when they return to session on January 14. Speaker of the House Sam Smith (R-Jefferson) will be announcing the appointment of members to each of Houses 23 standing committees and brief meetings will then be held off the floor for each committee to organize. The Senate returns to session on January 22, along with the House, after the January 21 Martin Luther King holiday. Committees House: <> Click Here for full House Committee Schedule. Senate: <> Click Here for full Senate Committee Schedule.

Bills Introduced The following bills of interest were introduced this week-House Green Buildings: House Bill 34 (Harper-R-Montgomery) setting green building standards stateowned or state-leased buildings. Agency Performance: House Bill 35 (Saylor-R-York) providing for accountability of state agency performance. Historic Preservation: House Bill 39 (Scavello-R-Monroe) establishing the Historic Preservation Incentive Grant Program. Adopt-A-River: House Bill 59 (Sturla-D-Lancaster) establishing the Adopt-A-River Program in DCNR, House Bill 1214 last session. Electric/Gas Choice: House Bill 66 (Sturla-D-Lancaster) prohibiting electric and natural gas suppliers from charging upfront fees to solicitors hired to encourage consumers to switch suppliers, House Bill 1276 from last session. Safe Drinking Water Month: House Resolution 8 (Goodman-R-Schuylkill) designating January as Safe Drinking Water Month in Pennsylvania. Co-Sponsor Memos Household Hazardous Waste: Rep. Kate Harper (R-Montgomery) is requesting House members to sign on to a bill she plans to introduce increasing grants for local household hazardous waste collection events to $150,000 from $100,000. Farmland Preservation Licenses: Rep. Gordon Denlinger (R-Lancaster) plans to introduce legislation creating farmland preservation license plates. State Energy Efficiency: Rep. Ron Miller (R-York), new Majority Chair of the House Environmental Resources and Energy Committee, is proposing legislation to create a comprehensive energy efficiency program for state buildings, House Bill 179 from last session. Waste-To-Energy: Rep. Ron Miller (R-York) is reintroducing legislation moving waste-toenergy facilities into Tier I of the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards, House Bill 2554 from last session. State Rock: Rep. Thomas Murt (R-Montgomery) wants to designate anthracite coal as the official state rock.

Senate Co-Sponsor Memos Onlot Septic Permit Exemption: Sen. Timothy Solobay (D-Washington) is asking colleagues to sponsor legislation he plans to introduce exempting owners of 100 acres or more from onlot septic system permitting requirements. Stormwater Management: Sen. Ted Erickson (R-Delaware) is circulating a co-sponsor memo for legislation authorizing authorities to undertake projects to manage stormwater, Senate Bill 1261 from last session.

News From The Capitol

House Democrats Push Investment In Transportation House Democratic leaders Wednesday introduced legislation to help Pennsylvania establish a long-term, comprehensive and sustainable plan for funding the maintenance and improvement of the Commonwealths crumbling roads, bridges and transit systems. While Pennsylvanians continue to wait for the governor to lead in the transportation crisis, House Democratic leaders reintroduced a package of bills modeled after the recommendations made by Gov. Tom Corbetts Transportation Funding Advisory Commission in August 2011. The governor has yet to act on those recommendations. "As we begin a new, two-year legislative session, we remain hopeful that Governor Corbett finally will show some leadership on this issue that is of paramount importance to Pennsylvania residents, motorists, workers and businesses," said Democratic Leader Frank Dermody (D-Allegheny). "This is a public safety crisis, but its also an economic crisis. A modern, reliable transportation system is critical to creating and sustaining thousands of jobs and to enabling businesses to remain competitive and successful." Democratic Whip Mike Hanna (D-Centre) and Democratic Caucus Chairman Dan Frankel (D-Allegheny), who sponsored the bills during the 2011-12 session, reintroduced the legislation as House Bills 12, 13 and 14 in the new 2013-14 session. "Gov. Corbett has had nearly a year and a half to implement the recommendations from his own advisory commission, said Rep. Hanna. Instead, he chose to focus on initiatives that would suppress voter turnout, give the gas industry a free pass to drill without proper environmental restrictions, dole out corporate welfare while children are left in underfunded public schools, and hand over control of the successful Pennsylvania Lottery to a foreign corporation. Its clear that the governors priorities do not include the hardworking middle class that drives our economy," Rep. Hanna said. The TFAC report provided a roadmap for raising as much as $2.5 billion a year for Pennsylvanias transportation needs. The commission urged PennDOT to consider a number of measures including adjusting outdated vehicle and driver fees for inflation, increasing fines, uncapping the Oil Company Franchise Tax over five years and modernizing many PennDOT services for cost savings.

The Democratic legislative package also carries specific recommendations to ensure adequate funding for mass transit. "Mass transit is a critical component of our transportation network, said Rep. Frankel. "A well-functioning public transit system creates vibrant cities, takes cars off the roads, and gives freedom of movement to all our residents who cant drive. Rural areas that dont see much daily traffic still deserve upkeep; just as urban centers deserve buses and trains to get people to work. Its not either/or. We need both." Taking their cues from Corbetts own advisory commission, the Democratic leaders noted several statistics that were cited in the TFAC report: --- Every dollar spent on infrastructure during the decade of investment will result in an additional 65 cents being spent in Pennsylvania. ---During the decade: -- 135,000 to 145,000 full-time equivalent jobs will be created and sustained. This is a 50 percent increase over the base transportation improvement program. -- $125 million to $150 million in additional sales tax will be generated (in 2011 dollars), an increase of 65 percent over the base transportation improvement program. -- $235 million to $260 million in additional personal income tax will be generated, an 80 percent increase over the base transportation improvement program. Democratic Appropriations Chairman Joe Markosek (D-Allegheny), said this is an issue that demands immediate attention by the governor and the General Assembly. "Waiting to take action is no longer an option," Rep. Markosek said. "We must act now to ensure that Pennsylvanians have safe roads and bridges on which to travel, and to send a message to employers around the globe that Pennsylvania is open for business." In addition to Hanna, Dermody, Frankel and Markosek, the following Democratic leaders offered their support for a comprehensive transportation funding package: Caucus Secretary Ronald G. Waters (D-Philadelphia), Policy Committee Chairman Mike Sturla (D-Lancaster); and Caucus Administrator Neal P. Goodman (D-Schuylkill). They said different regions have different needs but only a statewide approach will help to get Pennsylvanias people where they need to go. NewsClip: House Dems Plug Transportation Funding Plan Feb. 11 Environmental Issues Forum Presentation On Drilling Pad Liner Recycling The Joint Legislative Air and Water Pollution Control and Conservation Committees first Environmental Issues Forum of 2013 will be held February 11 at 12:00 noon in Room G-50, K. Leroy Irvis Building. The forum will focus on a new business partnership involving two Pennsylvania businesses to collect and recycle used plastic well pad liners from Marcellus shale gas drilling sites. Speakers will describe the opportunities presented by the partnership, the economic and environmental impact of the process, and future plans. The guest speakers will be: David La Fiura, vice-president of Ultra-Poly Corporation, Portland, Pa; and Scott Fought, vice-president of Operations of WellSpring Environmental Services, Orwigsburg, Pa.

The partnership was facilitated by the PA Recycling Markets Center, Inc.. Both companies are members of the RMCs Center of Excellence, a network of recycled materials processors and end users of recycled materials. Ultra-Poly is one of the largest recyclers of polyethylene and polypropylene plastic in North America and has built a recycling plant in the Berwick area specifically for processing the liner material. WellSpring has developed special equipment for separating well pad liners on site so that it can be trucked away in a single trailer load. In describing the partnership, RMC Executive Director Robert J. Bylone, Jr. said: This is a first-of-its-kind venture that will produce major and dramatic benefits for Pennsylvania in addition to new jobs and growth for the companies directly. The new recycling ventureis expected to take at least 20 million pounds a year of plastic well pad liner material out of the waste stream and turn it into useful new products. For more information, visit the Joint Conservation Committee website.

News From Around The State

Nominations Now Being Accepted For 2013 Western PA Environmental Awards Dominion and the PA Environmental Council are now accepting applications for the 2013 Western PA Environmental Awards recognizing excellence in advancing the environmental quality of Western Pennsylvania. Nominations are due February 15. Now in its ninth year, this regionally acclaimed awards program recognizes and honors the outstanding achievements of organizations, businesses, schools and individuals in a wide range of environmental initiatives. The Awards are open to those located and working in one of the following counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Bedford, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Centre, Clarion, Clearfield, Crawford, Elk, Erie, Fayette, Forest, Fulton, Greene, Huntingdon, Indiana, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Mercer, Somerset, Venango, Warren, Washington, and Westmoreland. Nominations may be made by the person or persons involved in the activity or by a third party. Successful nominations will demonstrate measurable results and/or impact of the activities. Nominations will be evaluated by an independent panel of judges and Awards Program staff. Finalist may also be asked to host a site visit to demonstrate their program or activities. Winners will be notified in early April and publicly honored at the 2013 Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards Dinner and Awards Ceremony on May 23, 2013 at the Westin Hotel and Convention Center, Pittsburgh. Up to five winners may be chosen. In addition, $5,000 will be donated in honor of each winner to qualified nonprofit organizations with environmental programs benefiting Western Pennsylvania; the nonprofit organizations will be designated by the winners. For a nomination form and more information, visit the Western PA Environmental Awards webpage. Registration Now Open For Schuylkill Watershed Congress On March 9

The Delaware Riverkeeper announced Wednesday registrations are now being accepted for the 2013 Schuylkill Watershed Congress to be held on March 9 at the Pottstown Campus of Montgomery County Community College. The Watershed Congress has evolved over 15 years to advance the best available information and techniques for protecting and restoring watersheds. The focus on networking across disciplines means that the Watershed Congress melds science, policy and practical applications into one program. As a result, the annual Watershed Congress is a highly anticipated event for people interested in understanding, protecting and restoring their local streams. The agenda includes sessions on invasive plant control, sustainability, long-term trend water monitoring, the Ghost of Land Use Past, FEMA buyouts, schoolyard habitats and environmental education, bio-retention wetlands, a retrospective of ten years of work to protect Valley Creek, pharmaceuticals in drinking water, shale gas monitoring and much more. For a detailed agenda and registration information, visit the Schuylkill Watershed Congress webpage. Passive Mine Water Treatment System At Jennings Gets Much-Needed Makeover Rewind the clocks to the year 1997. The average price of gasoline was $1.36. Interleague play began in major league baseball. Titanic was the top growing movie. And the vertical flow pond, a component in the mine drainage passive treatment system at the Jennings Environmental Education Center in Butler County was first installed-- nearly 15 years ago! It was predicted to generate sufficient bicarbonate alkalinity to effectively treat acidic mine drainage from an old abandoned underground coal mine for 7 to 10 years. With minor maintenance, this innovative VFP with a first-of-its-kind treatment media recipe far exceeded performance expectations. After almost 15 years of operation, however, the loss in permeability of the treatment media resulted in the inability of the VFP to treat all of the influent acid mine drainage. As the permeability issue continued to worsen, more and more untreated AMD was passing through the emergency spillway and into a forested area. The lush, created wetlands with flourishing wildlife habitat which are used in environmental education programs became in imminent danger of being lost, as these wetlands are fed by the treated VFP effluent. To eliminate these and other environmental impacts, an extensive rehabilitation of the VFP was completed this fall. The work was done primarily by Buck Neely and Ryan Mahony, with occasional help from Bryan Page, Shaun Busler and Kelsey Palmer, all of Stream Restoration Inc. and the Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition. This rehabilitation was made possible thanks to grants from the U.S. Office of Surface Mining, Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds, a Quick Response grant via the Western Coalition for Abandoned Mine Restoration and DEPs Growing Greener Program, funding from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the very generous donation of Mineral CSA from HARSCO Minerals. In-kind contributions were also received from volunteers and BioMost Inc. The rehabilitation consisted of: removing, placing and encapsulating (with alkaline material) the spent treatment media; replacing the underdrain (piping and aggregate; replacing/ rehabilitating VFP inlet and outlet piping and other ancillary piping; and replacing the VFP

treatment media. Due to advancements in technology, the underdrain piping is now of a larger diameter and single-shredded wood chips were added to essentially the same media recipe of spent mushroom compost and hi-cal limestone aggregate. The expected results are the restoration of the VFP treatment performance with a similiar or greater design life with even less maintenance, the sustainability of the created wetlands and the elimination of negative impacts to the forested area and receiving stream. We look forward to working with partners in the future monitoring and caring for the system and educational outreach opportunities: Jennings Environmental Education Center, Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition, Stream Restoration Inc, BioMost Inc, Boy Scouts, volunteers and others. (Reprinted from the December issue of The Catalyst published by the Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition.) Colcom Foundation Funds Sondes To Monitor Slippery Rock Watershed The Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition, in cooperation with Stream Restoration Inc., is excited to announce that funding has been received for the purchase of water quality sondes for the Slippery Rock Creek Watershed in Butler County through a Colcom Foundation grant. The data resulting from the use of the sondes will provide valuable and much needed water quality information to identify future improvements or degradation. SRI has a demonstrated track record of addressing the legacy of abandoned mine drainage problems in the Commonwealth and working with industry to prevent future problems. The same partnership approach, we believe, will help us address any potential issues with the emerging natural gas industry. As of a short time ago, 10 wells had been drilling in the Marcellus or Utica Formations within the 408-square mile watershed. The use of conductivity-temperature-depth (CTD) sondes is a cost effective and efficient method to collect water quality data on a continual basis. The Colcom grant will also the SRWC to place up to 20 CTD sondes throughout the watershed to cover the mainstem and all major tributaries. The conductivity measurement can be useful in depicting the general quality of the stream. In addition, to the CTD sondes, three multi-parameter sondes will be used as mobile units to be placed for extended periods in stream segments of concern and within passive treatment systems. These multi-parameter sondes, which measure pH, oxidation reduction potential and dissolved oxygen, are more expensive to operate and require higher maintenance than the CTD sondes. This combination of sondes balances the usefulness of the additional parameters with the higher costs of operating and maintaining the devices. The data will be downloaded by volunteers and students on a monthly basis in a monitoring program to be modeled after the successful Adopt-A-Passive-Treatment System program coordinated by Cliff Denholm (Stream Restoration Inc.) and Wil Taylor (Center Manager, Jennings Environmental Education Center, DCNR).

We are also excited to involve three local colleges/universities in this sonde use and monitoring initiative: Grove City College- Dr. Fred Brenner, Biology Department; Slippery Rock University- Dr. Patrick Burkhart, Geology Department; and Westminster College- Dr. Helen Boylan, Chemistry Department, have agreed to share their expertise in this project, while also providing their students an interesting and worthwhile hands-on learning experience. The SRWC and SRI wish to express their thanks to the Colcom Foundation for making this new monitoring approach possible! To learn more about the Colcom Foundation and their commitment to supporting environmental sustainability, visit their website. If anyone is interested in volunteering for this project, please send email to: SRI@StreamRestorationInc.org. (Reprinted from the December issue of The Catalyst published by the Slippery Rock Watershed Coalition.) Applications Being Accepted For Next Master Well Owner Course Pennsylvania is home to over one million private water wells and springs but it is one of the few states that do not provide statewide regulations to protect these rural drinking water supplies. In 2004, Penn State Cooperative Extension and several partner agencies created the Master Well Owner Network a group of trained volunteers who are dedicated to promoting the proper construction, testing, and maintenance of private water wells, springs and cisterns throughout Pennsylvania. Since its inception, hundreds of MWON volunteers have attended Saturday training workshops to learn about proper water supply management practices. Starting on February 11, this same training will be available entirely online. Prospective volunteers need to submit an application and be accepted into the program. Applications will be limited to about 15 eligible volunteers. Once accepted, each volunteer will receive seven weekly emails with links to short reading assignments and video presentations. Participants in online training will largely be able to determine their own training schedule. One optional online meeting will be offered in March to help answer questions (attendance at this optional meeting this will require a computer with high speed connection and speakers). Volunteers who successfully complete the training course and pass a short exam will receive a free copy of the 80 page publication - A Guide to Private Water Systems in Pennsylvania, a coupon good for a 10 percent discount on water testing through the Penn State water testing lab, and access to various MWON educational materials. In return, MWON volunteers are asked to pass along what they have learned to other private water supply owners and submit an annual report of their educational accomplishments. To learn more and complete an application, visit the Online MWON Volunteer Training webpage. Here are a few comments from volunteers who recently completed the online course: -- I believe people buying homes or properties with wells located on them should have this information prior to purchase. The problem is not many people are aware of the information that is available. Hopefully this course helps correct the problem. -- Excellent opportunity, especially in light of the drilling operations surrounding Marcellus well development activities throughout the state and in the area where I live.

-- Very Useful information. The presentation format via adobe connect was very easy to work with. (Reprinted from Penn State Extension Watershed Winds newsletter.) StormwaterPA: Water Education Resources For Teachers StormwaterPA's video case studies are powerful, educational tools. Recently, we have begun efforts on strengthening the educational impact of our videos by incorporating them into EcoExpress.org, which is our organization GreenTrek Network's environmental education program. EcoExpress.org is an online resource center designed specifically for local teachers and students. It features streaming documentaries and lesson plan content associated to Pennsylvania's Academic Standards for Environment and Ecology. Science education expert Anita Brook Dupree develops lesson plans associated with our videos. You can now find educational materials for the following video case studies on EcoExpress.org: -- Green Schools: Albert Greenfield Elementary -- Greener, Healthier Play: Herron Playground -- Percy Street Goes Green: Another Philadelphia First -- Green City, Clean Waters PA American Water Accepting Stream Of Learning Scholarship Applications Pennsylvania American Water Thursday announced applications are being accepted for its 2013 Stream of Learning Scholarship Program to provide college scholarship assistance to students who are planning to pursue careers in the water and wastewater industry. Applications are due February 28. The program is designed to support outstanding students living in Pennsylvania American Waters service territories who are charting a course of study in specific fields, ranging from engineering to environmental science, which are crucial to the water and wastewater business. The company will award scholarships of $2,000 each to 10 students who are selected through the programs application process. Applicants must meet the following criteria: -- Students must currently live in one of Pennsylvania American Waters service areas. (Students can attend college outside of the companys service territory.) -- Students must plan to attend a two- or four-year college or technical school. -- Students must plan to study environmental science, environmental engineering, biology or chemistry. Previous winners of our Stream of Learning Scholarships have been extremely bright, dedicated students who have much to offer for the future of our industry, said Kathy L. Pape, president of Pennsylvania American Water. Through this program, were looking to attract more talented young people who will share our commitment to maintaining public health, protecting the environment and promoting economic development.

Winners will be selected by a panel of judges and will receive their awards in May. Family members of Pennsylvania American Water employees are not eligible. This month, the company is sending scholarship brochures and applications to high school guidance counselors throughout its service territory. Applications can be downloaded from PA Americans Stream of Learning webpage. Latest Edition Of Chesapeake Bay Journal Now Available The January/February issue of the Chesapeake Bay Journal is now available highlighting the latest news about the cleanup of the Chesapeake Bay and in depth articles on issues affecting the watershed. Click Here to read the Journal. NewsClips: States Agree To Chesapeake Bay Pollution Control Tracking Relicensing Conowingo Dam Opportunity For Chesapeake Bay Issues Technique Reveals Loads, Trends In Chesapeake Bay Pollution Greener Landscapes For Healthier Chesapeake Bay Editorial: Maintain Chesapeake Momentum Scientists To Discuss Health Of Delaware River, Bay In Wake Of Record Storms Jan. 2730 Hundreds of environmental educators, managers, and scientists will converge on Cape Mays Grand Hotel for the Delaware Estuary Science & Environmental Summit on January 27-30. Dozens of experts are scheduled to give over 130 presentations. However, talk outside the lecture halls will almost certainly focus on Superstorm Sandys impact on our region. The four-day conference will be hosted by the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary, one of the only organizations working to restore the tidal Delaware River and Bay in all of its surrounding states. This follows the September release of its State of the Estuary Report, which details the regions environmental health. The theme of the summit is Weathering Change: Shifting Environments, Shifting Policies, Shifting Needs. Little did planners know just how appropriate this would be when they chose it. Hurricane Irene, Hurricane Sandy, and other recent storms exposed how vulnerable our coastline is, explained Jennifer Adkins, executive director of the PDE. This summit will foster discussions about making communities and ecosystems more resilient against frequent storms made worse by rising seas. The PDE has hosted its summit every two years since 2005. It is intended to be a midwinter retreat for those who spend the warmer months outdoors conducting research, leading programs, and performing restoration projects. People value this summit because its an opportunity for experts from different environmental sectors to periodically connect and share their latest observations about emerging research and restoration priorities, explained Dr. Danielle Kreeger, science director at the PDE. This gets them communicating and thinking about how things interact across the entire Delaware River Basin and Bay instead of specific areas in Delaware, New Jersey, or Pennsylvania.

Anyone can attend the Delaware Estuary Science & Environmental Summit. Registration is available online at DelawareEstuary.org or by calling (800) 445-4935, extension 114. The cost to attend is $120 for students, $320 for nonstudents, or $160 per day. While lodging is not included, prices do cover continental breakfast and lunch each day, as well as dinner on January 28. Overnight accommodations can be reserved by calling the events venue, the Grand Hotel, at (800) 257-8550. For more information, visit the Delaware Estuary Science & Environmental Summit webpage. NewsClips: PA Still Assessing Superstorm Response By Utilities Social Media Helped Utilities Respond To Sandy Outages DEP Releases Final White Paper On Using Mine Water For Drilling The Department of Environmental Protection announced Wednesday it has finalized the process it will use for encouraging and reviewing proposals to use mine-influenced water, such as acid mine drainage, in oil and gas operations. The process is outlined in a white paper the agency released. Abandoned mines present Pennsylvania with one of its biggest environmental challenges, DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said. This initiative, which combines remediating abandoned mine water with responsible extraction of our natural gas resources, is a win for our environment and our economy. The white paper, available on DEPs website, outlines the process to submit proposals and how agency staff will review the proposals to use mine-influenced water in drilling operations. It also identifies possible storage options for the water and describes potential solutions to long-term liability issues. Proposals to use mine-influenced water must include sampling and characterization of the water, as well as details about how the water will be transported, stored and used. DEP has also developed lists of major mine discharges in the state that it is encouraging operators consider first, but the agency will review proposals for using water from any mine discharge in Pennsylvania. Operators must follow all applicable environmental laws and regulations when treating, using, storing and moving the water. DEP is also encouraging interested parties to work with non-profit organizations and watershed associations that operate mine water treatment plants and to consider creating or supplementing existing trust funds for long-term treatment of mine-influenced water. The agency developed the white paper after discussing throughout 2012 a draft version with stakeholder groups from across the state. More than 300 million gallons of water is discharged from mines into Pennsylvanias waterways every day. Such water has impaired more than 5,500 miles of rivers and streams in the state. In 2011, the Governors Marcellus Shale Advisory Commission included among its recommendations encouraging the use of non-freshwater sources in drilling operations. For more information, visit DEPs webpage on using mine influence water for natural gas extraction activities.

NewsClips: DEP Offers Mine Water To Drillers Use Of Mine Drainage In Drilling Endorsed By DEP DEP Proposes Using Mine Drainage For Fracking Mine Reclamation Groups Seeks Drilling Allies Entries For Shale Gas Technology Innovation Contest Invited For $75,000 In Prizes Are you a researcher, entrepreneur, or innovator working in the shale gas space in Pennsylvania? The Ben Franklin Shale Gas Innovation and Commercialization Center announced Monday the program will award a total of $75,000 in cash prizes for the three best shale gasoriented innovations, new product ideas, or service concepts that are either in the development stage or recently launched. Deadline to enter is February 1. In addition to the cash prizes, successful applicants will gain exposure to investors, potential partners, and industry sponsors. This year, the Shale Gas Innovation Contest is co-sponsored by Ben Franklin Technology Partners, ANGA, Acorn Energy, Cabot Oil & Gas Corporation, CONSOL Energy, Chesapeake Energy, The Dow Chemical Company, First National Bank, Little Pine Resources, the Marcellus Shale Coalition, and Praxair. Bill Hall, Director of the SGICC remarked, Whats great about this competition is that a simple online summary is all thats required to get started. Any idea related to the shale gas space is eligible - even if the product or service has already been commercially developed. Examples include vehicle conversion, natural gas utilization products/services, remote site monitoring, natural gas or NGL conversion technologies, and water remediation for fracking operations. Finalists will be chosen by a panel of industry experts. For more information, visit the Shale Gas Innovation Contest webpage. Questions, contact Bill Hall at either 814-933-8203 or send email to: billhall@psu.edu. Agriculture, Energy Industries Meet To Discuss Natural Gas Development In PA Thursday the Keystone Energy Forum, in partnership with PennAg Industries Association & the Professional Dairy Managers of Pennsylvania held its second Agricultural Forum focusing on natural gas development and its interaction with Pennsylvania's agricultural community. The forum allowed numerous agricultural groups and natural gas industry leaders to engage in discussions that will help both industries better coexist. Pennsylvania is well positioned to lead the nations energy revolution, which is creating thousands of jobs and lessening our dependence on foreign energy. Gov. Corbett is committed to making sure the development of our natural resources is done safely and responsibly. Working with the agriculture community, we were able to come together today to further the discussion on responsible natural gas development, listen to the issues affecting the agriculture community, and help chart a path forward," said Patrick Henderson, Energy Executive, Office of Gov. Corbett. The Keystone Energy Agriculture Forum took place in Harrisburg in conjunction with the 2013 Pennsylvania Farm Show. The forum included two panel discussions focusing on natural gas development on and near agricultural lands and a review of mid-stream (pipeline) operations across Pennsylvania.

"MarkWest Energy Partners was proud to be a partner in the Keystone Energy Forum collaboration between the agriculture community and energy industry. With our background as a leading midstream company in the Appalachian region, MarkWest is well situated to bring a better understanding of how the energy industry transports natural gas from point A to point B. Today's forum provided a good opportunity to discuss issues of importance to the agriculture community as we strive to work together," said David Callahan, Vice President of Government Affairs, MarkWest Energy Partners. Thursday's program is part of an ongoing series of forums hosted by the Keystone Energy Forum in concert with coalition groups from across Pennsylvania. In 2011 and 2012, the Keystone Energy Forum hosted educational forums on Housing, Outdoor Life , Economic Development and Pennsylvania's Energy Portfolio. "PennAg Industries Association continues to look forward to working with the Keystone Energy Forum and the natural gas industry. This cooperation, as seen at today's forum, allows for a better understanding of both the energy and agriculture community as they grow, change and work together in the coming years," said Chris Herr, Executive Vice President of PennAg Industries Association. The Keystone Energy Forum is focused on educating the public on energy production in Pennsylvania. It serves as a resource for making local opinions count. The forum will be available to Pennsylvanians as a venue to help create balanced energy policies. Visit the Keystone Energy Forum website to participate in the forum and for facts on the Marcellus and Utica Shale, hydraulic fracturing and other Pennsylvania and national energy issues. Marcellus Shale Coalition Participates In PA Farm Show This week the Marcellus Shale Coalition and dozens of natural gas industry employees participated in the 97th annual Pennsylvania Farm Show. In partnership with MSC member companies, the organizations booth provided farmers and others from the agriculture industry firsthand access to natural gas development subject matter experts. This is the third consecutive year that the MSC has actively participated in the annual farm show. The agriculture community is a key partner in the responsible development of cleanburning natural gas, said Kathryn Klaber, chief executive officer of the MSC. In each of the past three years that weve participated in the farm show, weve found more interest in Marcellus-related issues and more informed show-goers who are personally realizing the benefits of this world-class resource. Our industry is grateful for and proud of the strong, working relationships that we continue to build across the agriculture community. This is a unique partnership, given our shared goals of responsible land development and producing commodities that benefit the regional economy. In addition to sponsoring a booth in the exhibit hall, the MSC again contributed $5,000 to the Pennsylvania Farm Show Scholarship Foundation on behalf of its members. Since 1993, the Farm Show Scholarship Foundation has recognized more than 400 students with scholarships totaling $1 million. Students who participate in 4-H and FFA and show animals at the farm show are eligible to apply for this scholarship. MSC community outreach manager and agricultural liaison, Eric Cowden, is a past recipient of the Farm Show Scholarship and is a member of the selection

committee. As a Pennsylvania farmer and a past recipient of the Farm Show Scholarship, I can say that the leadership, values and work ethic that embody the 4-H and FFA programs absolutely prepare students to become the Commonwealths next generation of agriculture leaders, said Cowden. MSC member companies remain committed to supporting these important programs. The farm shows 2013 theme is Made in PA. It makes a difference. Each year, the MSC community outreach team and our member companies participate in a dozens of county fairs and agricultural events across the commonwealth, continued Klaber. These events strengthen our working relationship with the 63,000 farming families across Pennsylvania who are realizing the benefits tied to responsible natural gas development through more affordable utility bills and fertilizer costs as well as by leasing their land and minerals. The partnership between our industries is strong and making a positive difference for the future of our region. 2012 International Coastal Cleanup Removes Over 714,000 Pounds Of Trash Nearly 8,000 volunteers from 48 counties across Pennsylvania canvassed their communities to remove over 714,000 pounds of trash and debris from Pennsylvanias waterways and coastal regions during the 2012 International Coastal Cleanup event. Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful is proud to be the Pennsylvania statewide coordinator for International Coastal Cleanup, the worlds largest volunteer effort to improve the health of the worlds oceans and local waterways. The International Coastal Cleanup is one of the largest international volunteer events. The Cleanup gives citizens around the world the opportunity to clean up their local waterways and to be a part of a larger movement. From September through October, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful worked together with local groups and organizations to coordinate 123 events throughout the state. Volunteers in Pennsylvania documented the trash that was picked up and the top five types of trash found during the 2012 cleanup included: 27,581 Cigarette Butts; 11,570 Beverage Bottles (plastic); 8,742 Food Wrappers; 6,947 Caps and Lids; and 6,770 Beverage Cans. County accomplishments included: -- Erie County/DEP. Most volunteers - 3,382. -- Erie County/DEP. Most cigarette butts collected - 13,664. -- Luzerne County/A Environmental Council-Northeast region- Most pounds of trash removed 94,390 pounds. -- Cumberland County/PA CleanWays of Cumberland County. Most tires collected - 2,570. -- Erie County/Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. Most plastic bottles collected - 3,524. The phrase we all live downstream is common, but in Pennsylvania it is a reality with our diverse topography and the amount of watersheds, small and large, said Shannon Reiter, President of Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful. Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful thanks all those involved in helping to prevent this litter from getting into our waterways. Funding for the International Coastal Cleanup coordination in Pennsylvania is provided by the Department of Environmental Protection. PROP Offers Full Schedule Of Recycling, Composting Certification Classes

The Professional Recyclers of PA are again offering a full schedule of recycling and composting certification classes in the new year. Click Here for the course schedule. Recycling Takes Center Stage In Capitol January 22 More than two dozen Pennsylvania companies that contribute to the states growing recycling economy will set up exhibits and displays in the East Wing Rotunda of the Capitol on January 22 for the 2013 Pennsylvania Recycling Industries Congress. The theme of the event is Serving the Recycling Spectrum Processing to Products. The displays will illustrate the broad spectrum of business activity involved in recycling, from the collection and processing of recyclables, such as plastic, aluminum and paper, to the use of recycled materials to make new products. The event is being jointly sponsored by the PA Waste Industries Association and the PA Recycling Markets Center. PWIA represents private-sector recyclers, waste haulers and landfill operators and serves as the Pennsylvania chapter of the National Solid Wastes Management Association. Through a unique demand-side approach, the non-profit RMC supports the research and development of new and innovative technologies to eliminate market barriers for recycled material. RMC works with manufacturers to incorporate new types of recycled- material feedstock into their operations to reduce costs and to increase revenues by designing new recycled-content product lines. Most importantly, by connecting the supply and demand sides, RMC and PWIA stimulate growth in the recycling industries. By collecting, processing and delivering market waste material, once thought to have no value, jobs are created. This years Recycling Industries Congress coincides with the implementation of a new state law that bans the disposal of electronic devices such as computers, computer peripherals and TVs in landfills and incinerators and requires manufacturers that sell electronics in Pennsylvania to offer e-waste recycling programs at no cost to consumers. Electronics scrap recyclers will be among the exhibitors, and there will be a special seminar on the business of electronics recycling. According to Robert Bylone, RMC president and executive director, the most recent available study says that more than 3,800 Pennsylvania businesses are involved in or benefit from recycling and that these businesses account for 52,316 employees, payrolls of $2.2 billion, and annual gross sales totaling $20.6 billion. Michele Nestor, chair of the RMC board, pointed out that Pennsylvania is the leader among Northeastern states in terms of the contribution of recycling to its economy. Recycling has become an important and broad-based business sector, she said. We are no longer an ancillary activity. PWIA President Mark Pedersen said PWIA members have been leading the way in investing in large-scale, single-stream processing technology in Pennsylvania. Single-stream processing means consumers dont have to have separate recyclables, he explained. This has dramatically improved the publics participation in recycling and in turn has helped greatly improve the economics of recycling. DEP Sponsors Webinar Jan. 16 To Highlight Radon Action Month

As part of National Radon Action Month, the Department of Environmental Protection will present an episode on the subject as part of its quarterly webinar series, DEP at Home, on January 16 from 7 to 8 p.m. Radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the United States and affects almost half of all Pennsylvania homes, DEP Secretary Mike Krancer said. Everyone needs to test their homes for radon. The good news is that a radon problem is easily and inexpensively fixed. The webinar will teach people more about this health risk and how they can protect their families. The webinar will feature a presentation and live question-and-answer session with Robert Lewis and Matthew Shields of DEPs Bureau of Radiation Protection and Kevin Stewart of the American Lung Association. To participate in the webinar, visit DEP at Home-Radon webpage. Radon is a colorless, odorless, radioactive gas that occurs naturally through the breakdown of uranium in soil and rocks. It can seep into homes through cracks in basements and foundations, and can build up inside to concentrations many times the recommended level. Radon is responsible for an estimated 20,000 lung-cancer deaths in the United States every year, and about 40 percent of Pennsylvania homes have radon levels above the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys action level of four picocuries per liter. While radon problems may be more common in some regions, the potential exists for any home to have high radon levels. Pennsylvania is particularly prone to elevated radon levels, and the only way to know if there is a radon problem is to test the home. DEP recommends testing all homes and public and private buildings. The best time to test is during the cold-weather months, when homes and buildings are closed and radon is most likely to build up to unhealthy levels. Residents may hire a certified radon testing company, though it is easy to perform a radon test by using a kit that can be purchased at a home improvement store or a Pennsylvaniacertified radon laboratory. Completed test kits are to be sent to a Pennsylvania-certified lab, where the samples are analyzed and the results are then sent to the resident. If results reveal radon levels above the action level, a radon mitigation system may be necessary. Radon mitigation systems cost between $700 and $1,200 and require minimal maintenance. Most home or building owners choose to hire a radon mitigation professional to install the system. For more information about radon, including information about interpreting test results or to find a Pennsylvania-certified radon contractor, visit DEPs Radon webpage. Click Here for the complete schedule of upcoming DEP webinars. DEP Climate Change Advisory Committee Continues Review Of Work Plans On Tuesday, DEPs Climate Change Advisory Committee continued its review of the more than 30 work plans making recommendations for legislative, regulatory and program changes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Pennsylvania. The Committee reviewed a series of work plans relating to agricultural issues-- manure digesters, feeding policies and no till farming and discussed a series of others involving electric generation and use. The work plans being considered by the Committee include-Act 129 Energy Use Reduction

Reduced Load Growth Stabilized Load Growth Alternative Energy Portfolio Standard Sulfur Hexafluoride Combined Heat and Power Nuclear Capacity Uprates Coal Mine Methane Reducing Methane Leakage from Natural Gas Infrastructure Reducing Lost & Unaccounted for Natural Gas in Distribution Systems Waste-to-Energy Digesters Waste-to-Energy Municipal Solid Waste Biofuel Development and In-State Production Incentive Act Manure Digesters Fuels for Schools Improved Efficiency at Wastewater Treatment Facilities Diesel Anti-Idling Increasing Public Transportation Ridership Increasing Participation in Efficient Passenger Transit Alternative Fueled Public Transit Fleets Alternative Fueled Taxi Fleets Foodshed Development Strategy Management Intensive Grazing No-till and Organic Row Crop Farming Forest Protection Easements Forestland Protection Initiative Acquisition Afforestation Reforestation Durable Wood Products Urban Forestry Vince Brisini, Deputy Secretary for Waste, Air, Radiation and Remediation, discussed the role of the committee in developing the states climate plan. He clarified DEP was ultimately responsible for the content of the plan and would ask the Committee to endorse each section of the plan. Those sections not endorsed would noted in the report. Christine Simeone, Chair of the Committee, expressed a concern about the timeliness of updates to the Committees webpage on DEPs website noting an updated Committee membership list and meeting materials and notices of conference calls and meetings have not been posted or are being posted very slowly. In-point-of-fact, the meeting agenda and materials for this weeks meeting were posted only the day before the meeting. The same thing happened before the meeting in December giving the public little opportunity to understand what issues the Committee is discussing. Meeting materials should be published a minimum of 10 days before any advisory committee meeting, according to past practice. The next meeting of the Committee is February 19 in the 2nd Floor Training Room in the Rachel Carson Building starting at 10:00. Joe Sherrick said the Committee may hold one or more conference calls between now and the next meeting to discuss work plans.

For more information visit DEPs Climate Change Advisory Committee webpage or contact Joe Sherrick at 717-787-2030 or send email to: josherrick@pa.gov. PUC Proposes Changes To Act 129 Conservation Service Provider Registration The Public Utility Commission Thursday issued for comment proposed revisions to the conservation service provider registration process and application as a way to expedite the process and reduce administrative burdens. The Commission voted 5-0 to issue the proposed changes for comment and welcomes feedback on the usefulness of the proposed revised CSP application, the newly created CSP templates, the two modifications to the minimum requirements, the elimination of the Tax Certification Statement and the requirement for a certificate of current liability insurance. Interested parties have 30 days to comment following the date the Tentative Order is published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. Act 129 of 2008 required each electric distribution company to submit an energy efficiency and conservation plan that would produce usage reductions to meet legislativelymandated targets through May 31, 2013. Each plan must include a contract with one or more CSP to implement the plan or a portion of the plan approved by the Commission. The Act defines a conservation service provider as an entity that provides information and technical assistance on measures to enable a person to increase energy efficiency or reduce energy consumption and that has no direct or indirect ownership, partnership or affiliated interest with an EDC. On August 2, 2012, the Commission adopted a Final Implementation Order on the future of EE&C programs established under Act 129. As part of the adoption of this Order, the Commission adopted a three-year Phase II Act 129 EE&C Program that will operate from June 1, 2013, through May 31, 2016. Act 129 also addresses issues such as electric utility and default service provider responsibilities; smart meter technology; time-of-use rates; real-time pricing plans; default service procurement; market misconduct; alternative energy sources; and cost recovery. For more information, visit the PUCs Act 129 webpage. PPL Plan For Long-Term Infrastructure Improvements OKd By PUC The Public Utility Commission Thursday approved the petition of PPL Electric Utilities Corp. to begin implementation of its long-term infrastructure improvement plan. The Commission voted 5-0 to approve the plan, which was filed as part of Act 11 of 2012. Chairman Robert F. Powelson and Commissioner Pamela A. Witmer issued a joint statement. Commissioner James H. Cawley also issued a statement. The law required and provides for, among other things, utilities to file the plans as part of any action to establish a distribution system improvement charge (DSIC) to recover reasonable and prudent costs incurred to repair, improve or replace certain eligible distribution property that is part of a utilitys distribution system. PPL plans to accelerate infrastructure replacement over a period of five years. PPLs plan accelerates spending on the repair and replacement of aging facilities. The company has also undertaken several initiatives to reduce the number of projected equipment failures including-- Enhanced Pole Inspection/Treatment Program; Increased Utilization of

Infrared Inspections; Expanded Operational Reviews; and Distribution Automation Strategy. As of January 1, 2013, public utilities may petition the Commission for approval to establish a DSIC. The petition must contain the following elements: 1) initial tariff; 2) testimony and exhibits to demonstrate that the DSIC will ensure the provision of adequate, efficient, safe, reliable and reasonable service; 3) long-term infrastructure plan; 4) certification that a base rate case has been filed within the past five years; and 5) any other information required by the Commission. The petition must demonstrate that granting the petition and allowing the DSIC to be charged will accelerate the replacement of infrastructure. PPL Electric provides electricity service to approximately 1.4 million customers in 29 counties in eastern and central Pennsylvania On February 14, 2012, Gov. Corbett signed Act 11 of 2012, which allows jurisdictional water and wastewater utilities, natural gas distribution companies, city natural gas distribution operations, and electric distribution companies to petition the Commission for approval to implement a DSIC. Under the law, the DSIC must be designed to provide for "the timely recovery of the reasonable and prudent costs incurred to repair, improve or replace eligible property in order to ensure and maintain adequate, efficient, safe, reliable and reasonable service. Response To Hurricane Sandy Topic Of PUC Forum The Public Utility Commission Thursday heard from the states electric utilities whose distribution systems were affected by Hurricane Sandy as part of a Special Electric Reliability Forum. What we heard today was a corrective action plan in terms of using social media, said PUC Chairman Powelson in a video news release. This was the first time in Pennsylvania that a majority of our utilities were using Twitter and Facebook to communicate with customers, and that was a big frustration we heard back in 2011 with the weather events, so a lot of good lessons learned. But this is still a work in progress, though, there is a lot of work that still needs to be done. The following electric companies made presentations, which are available on the PUC website: the FirstEnergy Companies (Metropolitan Edison Co., West Penn Power Co. and Pennsylvania Electric Co.); PECO Energy Co.; PPL Electric Utilities Corp., UGI Utilities Inc., and Pike County Light & Power. The utilities all reported that Hurricane Sandy was a once-in-a-century storm to hit their service territories, noting that overall, more than 9 million customers across along the East Coast lost power during the event. In general, the utilities reported the following successes: Proactively identifying outages; Expanded use of social media; Utility mutual assistance again played an essential role in ensuring the ability of the companies to respond to the event; and Face-to-face customer meetings to personally address customer concerns In general, the participating electric utilities also reported the following lessons learned including: Increasing and implementing additional training opportunities, such as outage management order processing and storm drills; Increased consumer education on restoration processes; and Reviewing policies for provision of Estimated Restoration Times (ERTs) during extreme events.

Hurricane Sandy is the largest Atlantic hurricane on record, affecting 24 states. At the height of the hurricane, over 8.3 million customers were without power. Hurricane Sandy hit Pennsylvania on October 29, 2012. At the peak of the storm, 1.2 million Pennsylvanians were without power. Throughout the course of the event, over 1.8 million Pennsylvanians lost power at one time or another with 90 percent of customers having their power restored by November 3, 2012. NewsClips: PA Still Assessing Superstorm Response By Utilities Social Media Helped Utilities Respond To Sandy Outages PPL Awards Classrooms And Young Minds Education Program Grants PPL Corporation is helping redefine the classroom experience for hundreds of local students, who are taking to the outdoors and participating in fossil digs, creating sun root roofs, investigating wetlands and creating a living wall to grow plants. For students at seven area schools, those projects will become reality in part because of Empowering Educators grants from PPL. A total of $11,860 was awarded to help develop young minds. Careers in science and math will play an integral role in helping our company and country remain successful in the future, said Meg Welker, manager of education and public outreach for PPL. We are excited to create opportunities to help students and teachers gain an upper hand in these subject areas. Grant recipients include: -- Bethlehem Area School District, Bethlehem: $2,000 will help fund the construction of a living wall, designed and built by students, in the main lobby of Freedom High School. The wall will have a vertical lush garden with carefully selected plants that will improve indoor air quality. The project will give students a lesson in engineering, design and construction as well as environmental science, and will be displayed at the Freedom High School art show. -- Blue Mountain School District, Orwigsburg: $1,400 will be provided to help 150 fourthgrade students at Blue Mountain Elementary East participate in a classroom outreach project provided by the Da Vinci Science Center of Allentown, Pa. The centers Classroom Outreach Education programs bring the visiting science experience into smaller school settings. Students will discover the electrifying principles of electrical engineering by creating series and parallel circuits, measuring their voltages, and drawing circuit diagrams. -- East Stroudsburg Area School District, Bushkill: $2,000 will help fund a coal-age fossil dig for a nature trail and outdoor classroom on the districts North Campus located in Bushkill, Pa. These additions will help students better understand energy and how it impacts their daily lives, both environmentally and economically. The related display will provide students with a handson investigation of the fossils that created coal, the methods used to excavate fossils, geologic time and the processes that gave Pennsylvania its large volume of coal beds.

-- Hazleton Area School District, Hazleton: $2,000 will be given to provide alternative energy lessons in the classroom. The project will incorporate equipment into the existing pre-engineering curriculum to allow students to explore alternative energy sources and their application to our societys current power needs. A PV solar system, as well as a studentdesigned tracking system, will be installed at the Hazleton Area Academy of Sciences as part of a class project. The completed system will provide power to a prominent display to showcase alternative energy to students and visitors, and will be incorporated into classroom activities. -- Manheim Central School District, Manheim: $2,000 will be given to help design and build a living roof on the livestock stable and horticulture work area used by Manheim Central High School. Additionally, a solar panel will be installed to create an alternative energy source for the stable. The agricultural mechanics class will build the roof structure, the environmental stewardship class will install the solar panel and the agricultural science class will plant the roof. More than 300 students will study science, math and alternative energy as part of this project. -- Northeastern School District, York Haven: $460 will be used to help 75 third-grade students at York Haven Elementary School study the water cycle and wetland environments at PPLs Brunner Island Environmental Preserve, and learn how to take care of the environment. After researching various water habitats, the students will create written and oral reports about a given water habitat and share them with the entire third grade. -- Scranton School District, Scranton: $2,000 will be used to divert rainwater from the roof of Scranton High School into rain barrels, where it will be stored to water the garden and landscaping. A rain garden, consisting of plants native to Pennsylvania, will be placed strategically near a storm drain to reduce flow to the Lackawanna River. Sixty students will plan, plant and maintain the garden and rain barrels. A presentation will be given at the annual Community Connections to the Watershed Forum in May. A team of PPL employees, environmental professionals and educators chose the winning projects. PPL sponsors the Empowering Educators grants program as part of an initiative to educate the public about energy resources and the environment. Twenty-two schools applied for the current round of grants. For more information, visit PPLs Education Programs webpage. FirstEnergy Webinar On Use Of Lighting Controls January 16 On January 16 FirstEnergy will hold another in its series of energy conservation webinars, this one on How to Evaluate Use of Lighting Controls starting at noon. This presentation will cover the basics of sensors, focusing on the types of sensors and when they might be used. It will also cover basic energy saving strategies that are used in conjunction with sensors. Join FirstEnergy for a new webinar every other Wednesday starting at noon. The first half of the webinar will cover new enhancements to FirstEnergys PA Act 129 Programs, where you can learn all about the cash incentives available for your commercial or industrial energy efficiency projects.

In the second half, we will have a guest speaker present on a variety of educational energy efficiency topics. For more information on FirstEnergy conservation programs, or to download applications, visit www.energysavePA.com, or send email to: energysavePA@saic.com. To see a listing of our upcoming webinars and seminar, Click Here. Penn State Land Use & Decision Making Webinars January-May Penn State Extensions Land Use & Decision Making Education Team will present a series of webinars to help planners, elected officials, and concerned citizens come together to make better land use decisions. Through this Land Use Decision Making Educational Webinar Series, you can learn more about planning and current planning issues; about local regulations and how and why they are created; about planning tools and resources available to decision-makers in Pennsylvania; and about how you can engage in planning to benefit your community. The webinars include--- January 16: Planning in PA: Land Use, Communities & Beyond (12:00 - 1:00 p.m.) and (7:00 - 8:00 p.m.) -- February 20: How Preemption of Zoning & Other Local Controls Impacts Planning (12:00 - 1:00 p.m.) and (7:00 - 8:00 p.m.) -- March 20: Renewable Energy Implementation & Land Use Regulations Is There Conflict? (12:00 - 1:00 p.m.) and (7:00 - 8:00 p.m.) -- April 17: Developing More Effective Citizen Engagement: A How to Guide for Community Leaders (12:00 - 1:00 p.m.) and (7:00 - 8:00 p.m.) -- May 15: Low Impact Development and Smart Growth: How are they best integrated and utilized in our communities? (12:00 - 1:00 p.m.) and (7:00 - 8:00 p.m.) Please share and forward to your local municipal officials and staff, planning commission members, zoning hearing boards, watershed groups, water systems, EACs, interested community members, etc. Online registration is available. Fee $25 for as many webinars in the series as you want. DCNR Secretary Recaps 2012 Accomplishments Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Richard Allan summarized important accomplishments of his agency in a special issue of the Resource newsletter on Wednesday-In my almost two years as secretary of DCNR, I have been fortunate to get out of the office and travel to a number of our parks and forests and see some of our conservation landscape work in action. I am up to more than 40 state parks and 11 forests districts. Since I have committed to visiting

all of our facilities, I still have a ways to go. We were pleased to join Gov. Tom Corbett in summer 2012 on two kayak toursone on several waterways in the western part of the state, and a second on the Delaware River which gave DCNR the chance to showcase our facilities in several regions as well as how our community investments promote economic development. The governor was impressed with all facets of our workfrom our parks, to our forests, to our community connections. As I travel the state, the people on the street, in the towns and communities, all tell me they are appreciative of the great job DCNR does, and I have to agree. I join staff in taking pride in some notable accomplishments in 2012: -- The Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail bridgeclosed due to safety reasons in late 2009 and dismantled a few months laterwas reopened in the same location crossing over the turnpike near Somerset. The trail is a major regional recreational attraction, drawing 80,000 to 100,000 hikers and other visitors a year. -- Some spectacular exhibits are now available to visitors at the Tiadaghton Resource Management Center in the Pennsylvania Wilds to educate and inform them about the history of the Pine Creek Valley and recreational activities in the region. -- DCNR assisted in wildfire suppression not only in Pennsylvania, but also sent 258 personnel to 19 other states, mostly in the western part of the country, to aid in battling wildfires. -- The department undertook some innovative work to launch a mobile website to make it easier for users of smartphones and tablet devices to connect with Pennsylvanias natural world while on-the-go. Interactive maps also went live online in 2012 with layers of information including locations, directions, weather reports and geologic features. This is only a sampling of DCNRs work. This year-end report reflects on our key programs and expands on our accomplishments in 2012. I have no doubt that 2013 will be another year of notable achievements in conservation and recreation. Other Accomplishment Highlights Secretary Allan outlined a more detailed set of accomplishments organized by each of the agencys major goals--- Manage State Parks and Forests Sustainably; -- Conserve The Commonwealths Natural Resources; -- Foster Sustainable Communities and Working Landscapes; -- Improve Access to Quality Recreational Resources; and -- Operate More Effectively and Efficiently. Revised Schedule Of Workshops For DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is now accepting applications for the 2013 round of Community Conservation Partnership Grants. The deadline for applications is April 10. (formal notice) Revised Schedule of Grant Workshops DCNR will host a series of 7 regional grant workshops designed to assist potential grant applicants with preparing their applications and providing information about the program. The workshop dates and locations are: -- Feb. 6: Conshohocken Montgomery County Public Safety Training Campus: Fire Academy; -- CANCELED: Feb. 7: Doylestown Heritage Conservancy: Aldie Mansion;

-- Feb. 13: Enola Pa. State Association of Township Supervisors: Administration Building; -- CANCELED: Feb. 19: Boalsburg Pa. Military Museum; -- Feb. 20: Nanticoke Luzerne County Community College: Educational Conference Center; -- Feb. 26: Franklin Park Franklin Park Borough: Blueberry Hill Park Activity Center; and -- Feb. 27: Clarion Clarion University: Gemmell Student Complex. For grant applications and instructions, visit the DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants webpage or contact the Bureau of Recreation and Conservations Linda Manning by sending email to: Linmanning@pa.gov. State Park Fees Due To Increase In 2013 The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources published a notice on changes to State Park fees for 2013 in the January 12 PA Bulletin. The new schedule includes price increases for Commonwealth residents and nonCommonwealth residents for certain camping add-on fees, meeting rooms and specialized facilities, organized group tenting facilities, shower fees, backpacking/river camping, equestrian camping, camper unit storage, dump station fees, transient overnight RV camping, whitewater boating, astronomy observatory, swimming pools and the Hufman Lodge at Laurel Hill State Park. A comparison of the new and previous fee schedule is available online. Western PA Conservancy Completes Land Protection Projects The Western PA Conservancy recently completed two projects in Eric and Lawrence counties one involves a land acquisition near an already-protected forest, and the other the acquisition of a donated conservation easement near a popular state park. An agricultural easement will also protect more than 37 acres of farmland at the headwaters of Tubmill Creek in Westmoreland County. Elk County The Conservancy recently acquired about five acres in Jay Township, Elk County. The property, containing a hemlock forest and a tributary of the Sinnemahoning River, is an addition to the Conservancys Bennett Branch Forest, which is already a notable conservation area. The property will be added to land protected by WPC in 2008 in Elk and Clearfield counties land that has been identified as having exceptional significance by Conservancy scientists and others. WPC transferred most of the property acquired at that time to the Bureau of Forestry and that part became a large addition to Moshannon State Forest. Lawrence County Last month, Kathleen Kunz took the final steps toward donating a conservation easement to WPC on the other property. Kunz has owned the 41-acre wooded property in Slippery Rock Township, Lawrence County, with her late husband for more than three decades. She made the choice to permanently conserve the parcel, which is adjacent to McConnells Mill State Park and Slippery Rock Gorge. A conservation easement is a voluntary legal agreement between the Conservancy and a private landowner that limits future uses of the property in order to protect its conservation value while enabling the land to remain privately owned. Every easement is tailored to the property and to the interests of the landowner.

Kunz also gave a monetary gift, which will ensure the long-term stewardship of the parcel. This stewardship fund helps WPC with the annual costs of monitoring the easement, including visiting the property, writing reports and working with Kunz and future owners to ensure the propertys conservation values and intent of the easement are protected. Westmoreland County The Fairfield Township land, which has been continuously farmed by the same family since the early 19th century, falls within the Laurel Highlands, where WPC has protected more than 80,000 acres of land. An agricultural easement is a voluntary agreement with landowners that keeps property in private hands in this case, siblings William E. Wilt, Tim H. Wilt and Joan A. Ahlers while permanently restricting future uses. The owners, who inherited the farmland, wish for it to permanently be an agricultural or natural area, said William Wilt. The agricultural easement will limit subdivision and the building of additional structures. It also will restrict future commercial activities to farming, forestry or farming-related businesses only, thus conserving prime agricultural soils and protecting a historically and culturally significant Ligonier Valley farm. Colcom Foundation, the Katherine Mabis McKenna Foundation and the Richard King Mellon Foundation provided financial support for this project, which closed last month. Online Video: TreeVitalize Pittsburgh Plants 15,000th Tree In November, Western PA Conservancys TreeVitalize Pittsburgh announced they had reached a major milestoneplanting 15,000 trees in the Pittsburgh area since 2008. The partnership is three-fourths of the way toward its goal of planting 20,000 trees by the end of 2013. Click Here to watch a video on the TreeVitalize Pittsburgh Program. Green In Your Backyard Woods Feb. 9 Workshop In Lancaster Penn State Extension along with the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay and DCNR Bureau of Forestry are sponsoring the Green in Your Backyard Woods workshop to be held in Lancaster on February 9. Participants will learn essential information about the regions vegetation and how to implement simple stewardship practices to enhance or establish vegetation on your land. Topics will include: tree & shrub selection and care, reading forested landscape, invasive plant control strategies, wildflowers/herbs and wild mushrooms of PAs woods, establishing edge habitat, riparian buffers, and more. The workshop will be held at the Farm & Home Center, 1383 Arcadia Road, Lancaster from 8:30 to 4:00. The cost is $30 per person or $50 for two people from the same household. For more information, download the workshop flyer or contact Craig Highfield, Alliance for the Chesapeake, 410-267-5723 or email: chighfield@chesapeakebay.net or Julianne Schieffer, Penn State Extension, 610-489-4315 or email: jxs51@psu.edu. Seventh Episode Of Western PA Conservancy Field Notes Available

The Field Notes Podcast Episode 7 is now available from the Western PA Conservancy. The episode Charles Bier discusses the presence of glacier erratic boulders in Pennsylvania, ancient continental ice sheets, and how theyre related. Feb. 13 Wild & Scenic Film Festival In Camp Hill The Wild & Scenic Film Festival is returning to central PA for the third year on February 13th, 2013 at the Grace Milliman Pollock Performing Arts Center in Camp Hill across the river from Harrisburg. The Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, in partnership the Goddard Symposium, is hosting this notable environmental film festival to show you how you can get involved in your community. Tickets will be available online starting January 1. Click Here for details. Get Wild About Winter Jan. 19 At Hawk Mountain Sanctuary Head outdoors for a dose of fresh air on January 19 when Hawk Mountain Sanctuary hosts Wild About Winter, a family-oriented winter event from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Hawk Mountain Visitor Center. If the weather is blustery, there's no need to fear, as the majority of activities will be held indoors and are free of charge. "Wild About Winter is our remedy to cabin fever," says Bookstore Manager Mary Therese Grob. "Hawk Mountain is a great place to spend time together and enjoy the outdoorseven if you still choose to spend your time inside watching whatever visits our bird feeding stations," she jokes. Visitors on this day may enjoy complimentary hot chocolate and bird-friendly coffee while they learn from a volunteer naturalist how to identify common winter birds that visit the Sanctuary bird-feeders. Feeder interpretation will be continuous from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. A Sanctuary educator will present a live hawk or owl program, held in the downstairs gallery at both 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., and in between, a Kids Activity Table (open from noon until 2 p.m.) will offer a station where young people can make a 3D snowman and learn more about animal survival and behavior during winter. At 1 p.m., visitors may join in on a guided winter woods walk, which will be a relatively easy stroll of up to one mile. Participants should dress for weather and know that a trail fee of $6 adults, $5 adults and $3 children ages 6 to 12 will apply. The day will wrap up with the 2 p.m. live raptor program. Those who wish to visit Hawk Mountain's scenic overlooks with younger children won't travel far. The closest lookout is just 300 yards from the Visitor Center. Hikers should dress for weather and wear sturdy shoes or boots, and information and tips on safe hiking is available. Trails are not winter maintained, so avoid hiking in icy conditions or when trail conditions exceed your abilities. Trail fees cost $6 for adults, $5 for seniors and $3 for children ages 6 to 12. Members and children ages 5 and under are free. Hawk Mountain Sanctuary is located just three miles south of New Ringgold on Route 895, or 7 miles north of the I-78/Route 61 Cabela's intersection. Turn onto Hawk Mountain Road and follow to the Visitor Center parking lot at the top of the Mountain. For more information, call 610-756-6961 or visit the Hawk Mountain website.

ClearWater Conservancy Receives 2 Grants From Dominion Foundation The ClearWater Conservancy received two grants recently from the Dominion Foundation Watershed Mini Grants Program. A $1,000 grant was used to purchase trees for a streamside restoration project in the Penn's Creek watershed and a $500 grant was used to offset costs for a new ClearWater Conservancy website. The Dominion Watershed Mini Grants Program is administered by the Western PA Conservancy and provides assistance to the region's grassroots watershed groups to cover expenses in three areas: operating costs, watershed restoration and organizational promotion and outreach. Winner Of Fishing's Fun Sweepstakes Lifelong Angler, Register Now For More Prizes When David Klein of Freedom, Pa., received notification that he had just won the Fish and Boat Commissions sweepstakes award for a guided Lake Erie steelhead trip for two people, he was amazed. The trip prize was the first of 20 prizes, over 20 weeks (one per week), to be awarded in the PFBCs Fishings Fun Sweepstakes through early May. The prize was drawn on December 16 and provided courtesy of Lake Erie Ultimate Angler, Bel-Aire Clarion Hotel and Victors Restaurant. I decided to register for the sweepstakes on Sunday, just hours before the winner was selected, said the 62 year-old Klein. Ive only been lucky once before with winning a fishing prize. That was many years ago while fishing Bradys Run in Beaver County. I won $1,500 for catching a tagged fish. Klein says that hes been fishing since he was 10-years-old and fishes Lake Erie tributaries, specifically Elk Creek, every year. He found out about the sweepstakes by receiving the PFBCs e-mailed newsletter. In addition to fishing in Erie, Klein states, I think fishing around Pittsburgh in the Three Rivers area is great, especially what it was compared to years ago. He adds, The high-quality of the opportunities and fishery around Pittsburgh is what keeps me fishing. As a grandfather to three grandchildren, ages 2 through 5, Klein knows the value of family fishing and passing the recreational enjoyment and understanding about aquatic resources to the next generation. I try to get the grandkids out fishing with me every chance I get, he says. Now that Im retired, I have the time and they love to fish. The PFBCs Fishings Fun Sweepstakes is a great way for everyone to have a chance at winning fishing trips with angling experts all over the state and fish for all types of fish species. In addition, Cabelas has provided 10 $500 gift cards as part of the prize package. The sweepstakes is open to the public with no purchase necessary to enter. All you need is your e-mail address to register. The sweepstakes is just a part of the Fish and Boat Commissions promotional launch of its new 3-year and 5-year fishing licenses. These new multi-year fishing licenses are available for all types and permits usually provided for one-year licenses.

In addition, the PFBC has sweetened the deal by providing purchase rewards for customers who purchase multi-year licenses. With a license thats good for three or five years, anglers can now enjoy carefree and convenient fishing without the worries of purchasing an annual license. To register for the Fishings Fun Sweepstakes and to know more and purchase a multiyear fishing license, visit the Gone Fishing PA website. Hog Island Student, Educator Scholarships Offered By Appalachian Audubon Society Appalachian Audubon Society, a Central Pennsylvania chapter of National Audubon, is offering scholarships for a teen and educator to attend Audubon Hog Island Maine nature/ornithology camps in June and July 2013. The teen scholarship covers the entire $995 registration fee; the educator scholarship is $500 toward the registration fee. Recipients will need to cover the cost of their travel to Damariscotta, Maine. Applications are due by February 1. For more information, visit the Appalachian Audubon website. Appalachian Trail Museum Looking For Hall Of Fame Inductees The Appalachian Trail Museum Society based in Gardners, York County, is now accepting nominations for inductees into the Appalachian Trail Hall of Fame, according to Marcus Schneck's PennLive Blog. Nominations of individuals who have made significant contributions to establishing and maintaining the Appalachian Trail will be accepted until February 28. Help Wanted: PEC Western PA River Town Outreach Coordinator The Student Conservation Association is hiring a recent graduate for a one-year fellowship, based out of Brownsville, Pa, to work on the PA Environmental Council's Mon River Town Program. Click Here for more details and to apply. Help Wanted: Nature Conservancy Watershed Restoration Manager The PA Chapter of The Nature Conservancy is seeking candidates for a Watershed Restoration Manager position. Click Here for the details. Help Wanted: Alliance For Chesapeake Bay Project Coordinator The Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay is taking applications for a Project Coordinator position with a diverse background and understanding of water quality and land use issues facing Pennsylvanias rivers and streams and their relationship to restoration of the Chesapeake Bay. Click Here for details. DEP Opportunity To Bid On Well Plugging Project In Allegheny County

The Department of Environmental Protection published a notice of an opportunity to bid on a well plugging project in Allegheny 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 January 15-- Agenda (posted Jan. 4). DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. -- among other items, continue its discussion of which issues the Council will consider during 2013. <> Click Here for available meeting handouts January 15-- CANCELED. Environmental Quality Board meeting. The next scheduled meeting is February 19. (formal notice) January 16-- No agenda yet. DEP Coastal Zone Advisory Committee meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:30. January 23-- NEW. DCNR Conservation and Natural Resources Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. (formal notice) January 23-- No agenda yet. DEP Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee. 12th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. (2013 meeting dates) January 29-- No agenda yet. DEP Cleanup Standards Scientific Advisory Board Vapor Intrusion Workgroup meeting. 14th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. February 2-- No agenda yet. DEP State Board for Certification of Water and Wastewater System Operators meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. February 5-- No agenda yet. DEP Environmental Justice Advisory Board meeting. Delaware Room, 16th Floor Rachel Carson Building. 9:30. February 7-- No agenda yet. DEP Solid Waste Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. February 13-- No agenda yet. DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:30. (2013 meeting dates) February 14-- No agenda yet. DEP Air Quality Technical Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:15. (2013 meeting dates) February 20-- No agenda yet. DEP Agricultural Advisory Board meeting. Susquehanna Room A, DEP Southcentral Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 10:00. (2013 meeting dates)

February 27-- No agenda yet. DEP Cleanup Standards Scientific Advisory Board Technical Guidance Manual Workgroup meeting. 14th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. March 5-- No agenda yet. DEP Storage Tank Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. March 6-- No agenda yet. DEP Sewage Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:30. March 26-- DEP Board of Coal Mine Safety meeting. Bureau of Mine Safety Rescue Training Facility, 286 Industrial Park Road, Ebensburg. 10:00. (2013 meeting schedule) April 11-- No agenda yet. DEP Cleanup Standards Scientific Advisory Board meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. (2013 meeting dates) April 11-12-- No agenda yet. DEP Radiation Protection Advisory Committee meeting. 14th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. June 12-- No agenda yet. DEP Oil and Gas Technical Advisory Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. Click Here for links to DEPs Advisory Committee webpages. DEP Calendar of Events [DEP No Longer Publishes a single Calendar of agency meetings]

Grants & Awards

This section gives you a heads up on upcoming deadlines for awards and grants and other recognition programs. NEW means new from last week. January 16-- Great American Can Roundup School Challenge January 16-- PA Environmental Educators Awards January 18-- POWR, DCNR PA River of the Year January 31-- Governors Award For Environmental Excellence January 31-- Fish & Boat Commission Photo Contest February 1-- DEP Natural Gas Vehicle Grants February 1- NEW. Appalachian Audubon Hogg Island Student/Teacher Scholarships February 1-- NEW. Shale Gas Technology Innovation Contest February 15-- NEW. Dominion/PEC Western PA Environmental Awards February 28-- NEW. PA American Water Stream of Learning Scholarships February 28-- NEW. Appalachian Trail Museum Hall Of Fame Inductees March 1-- PHMC Historic Preservation Grants March 1-- Southwest PA Lets Clear The Air Student Poster Challenge April 10-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants

April 30-- Northeast PA Audubon College Scholarship May 1-- Keep PA Beautiful Sue Wiseman Scholarship Grant July 12-- PROP Recycling Film Fest -- Visit the DEP Grants and Loan Programs webpage for more ideas on how to get financial assistance for environmental projects.

Budget/Quick Clips
Here's a selection of NewClips on environmental topics from around the state-Pennsylvanians Urged To Increase Preparedness New State Police App To Inform On Your Neighbors Budget Corbett Thanks Congress for Hurricane Assistance DEP Disputes It Missed Thousands Of Wells In Fee Collection Group: Faulty DEP Data Cost State $303 Million In Drilling Fees DEP Disputes It Missed $303 Million In Drilling Fees Editorial: PA Omitted Gas Wells, Forfeited Impact Fees House Dems Plug Transportation Funding Plan Editorial: Toll Hikes Reflect Poor Transportation Funding Other Citizen Science Opportunities At Ridge Environmental Center Allegheny College Hall Gets Environment-Friendly Revamp Quaker Valley Ecology Is Boosted By Green Space Armstrong Christmas Tree Recycling Goes Back To Nature Editorial: Program Doubles Reusable Paper In Lackawanna LIHEAP Applications Ahead Of Last Years Pace Wind Farm Rush In Northeast Pays Off PA Wind Companies Benefit From Fiscal Cliff Deal BPs Mehoopany Wind Farm Online Editorial: Wind Energy Credit Shafting Grows Farm Show Butter Sculpture Could Power Farm For 3 Days PA Still Assessing Superstorm Response By Utilities Social Media Helped Utilities Respond To Sandy Outages CMU Energy Innovation Institute Construction Continues Allegheny Health Board OKs Weaker Air Rules Allegheny Board Adds Leeway To Air Rules Advocates Hail Soot Standard As Lifesaver Editorial: Next EPA Head Must Act On Climate Change Frostbite Open To Test Golfers At Presque Isle York Students Making Own Bear Trap Engineer: Suburban Development Unsustainable Editorial: Sustaining Land A Worthy Mission

Marcellus Shale NewsClips

Here are NewsClips on topics related to Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling--Mine Reclamation Groups Seeks Drilling Allies DEP Disputes It Missed Thousands Of Wells In Fee Collection Group: Faulty DEP Data Cost State $303 Million In Drilling Fees DEP Disputes It Missed $303 Million In Drilling Fees Editorial: PA Omitted Gas Wells, Forfeited Impact Fees DEP Offers Mine Water To Drillers Use Of Mine Drainage In Drilling Endorsed By DEP DEP Proposes Using Mine Drainage For Fracking Birds-Eye View Of Marcellus Fracking Film Changes Few Minds In Western PA How Western PA Selected For Promised Land Filming Film Cheers Pennsylvania Fracking Opponents Op-Ed: Fracked vs. Fiction Industry Influence In Universities Shale Gas Research PA Shale Producers Get Support For Exports Financial/Other States EPA To Release Some Fracking Study Results In Weeks EPA Fracking Study Dodges Water Contamination Dominion Gets Court OK To Export Natural Gas From MD Study: Natural Gas No Bridge To Zero Fossil Future Report: Rising Natural Gas Prices In 2013-14 Marcellus Production Helps Reduce Natural Gas Prices

Flooding/Watershed NewsClips
Here are NewsClips on watershed topics from around the state-Flooding Corbett Thanks Congress for Hurricane Assistance President Signs Sandy Disaster Decree For PA PA Still Assessing Superstorm Response By Utilities Other Watershed NewsClips Mine Reclamation Groups Seeks Drilling Allies DEP Offers Mine Water To Drillers Use Of Mine Drainage In Drilling Endorsed By DEP DEP Proposes Using Mine Drainage For Fracking States Agree To Chesapeake Bay Pollution Control Tracking Relicensing Conowingo Dam Opportunity For Chesapeake Bay Issues Technique Reveals Loads, Trends In Chesapeake Bay Pollution Greener Landscapes For Healthier Chesapeake Bay Editorial: Maintain Chesapeake Momentum PA Milk Producers Face Rising Costs For Feed Corn Delaware River Dredging Set To Resume This Month

Water Lines Are Popping In Pittsburgh, More Expected EPA: Drop Presque Isle Bay From Watch List Harrisburg Wants To Use $4M Water, Sewer Funds For Payroll

Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits

No new regulations were published this week. Pennsylvania Bulletin - January 12, 2013 Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage DEP Regulatory Agenda - DEP webpage

Technical Guidance & Permits

The Susquehanna River Basin Commission published a notice of actions on water withdrawal requests in the January 12 PA Bulletin. The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources published a notice on changes to State Park fees for 2013. DCNR also published a notice proposing an exchange of property in Lackawanna and Westmoreland counties. 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

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. January 15-- Agenda. DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting. Among other items, continue its discussion of which issues the Council will consider during 2013. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. January 15-- CANCELED. Environmental Quality Board meeting. The next scheduled meeting is February 19. (formal notice)

January 16-- DEP Coastal Zone Advisory Committee meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:30. January 22-- NEW. Joint Legislative Budget & Finance Committee releases report on cost effective alternative approach to meeting Pennsylvanias Chesapeake Bay Nutrient Reduction Targets. Room B31. 11:00. January 23-- NEW. DCNR Conservation and Natural Resources Advisory Council meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. (formal notice) January 23-- DEP Small Business Compliance Advisory Committee. 12th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. (2013 meeting dates) January 29-- DEP Cleanup Standards Scientific Advisory Board Vapor Intrusion Workgroup meeting. 14th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. February 2-- DEP State Board for Certification of Water and Wastewater System Operators meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. February 5-- NEW. Governors Budget Address. Noon. February 5-- DEP Environmental Justice Advisory Board meeting. Delaware Room, 16th Floor Rachel Carson Building. 9:30. February 7-- DEP Solid Waste Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. February 11-- Environmental Issues Forum, Joint Legislative Air and Water Pollution Control and Conservation Committee, to hear a presentation from a company that recycles plastic drill site liners used by the Marcellus Shale industry. Room G-50 Irvis Building. Noon. February 13-- DEP Water Resources Advisory Committee meeting Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:30. (2013 meeting dates) February 14-- DEP Air Quality Technical Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 9:15. (2013 meeting dates) February 19-- NEW. Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30 Governors Budget Office; 1:00 Public Utility Commission; 3:00 Independent Fiscal Office-Economic Outlook & Revenue Overview. Hearing Room 1, North Office. February 20-- DEP Agricultural Advisory Board meeting. Susquehanna Room A, DEP Southcentral Office, 909 Elmerton Ave., Harrisburg. 10:00. (2013 meeting dates)

February 25-- NEW. Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 3:00 Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Hearing Room 1, North Office. February 26-- NEW. Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 3:00 Department of Health. Hearing Room 1, North Office. February 27-- NEW. Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 2:30 Department of Environmental Protection. Hearing Room 1, North Office. February 27-- DEP Cleanup Standards Scientific Advisory Board Technical Guidance Manual Workgroup meeting. 14th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. March 5-- NEW. Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 3:00 Department of Agriculture. Hearing Room 1, North Office. March 5-- DEP Storage Tank Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. March 6-- NEW. Senate Appropriations Committee budget hearings: 9:30 Department of Transportation. Hearing Room 1, North Office. March 6-- DEP Sewage Advisory Committee meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:30. March 26-- DEP Board of Coal Mine Safety meeting. Bureau of Mine Safety Rescue Training Facility, 286 Industrial Park Road, Ebensburg. 10:00. (2013 meeting schedule) April 11-- DEP Cleanup Standards Scientific Advisory Board meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. (2013 meeting dates) April 11-12-- DEP Radiation Protection Advisory Committee meeting. 14th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 9:00. June 12-- DEP Oil and Gas Technical Advisory Board meeting. Room 105 Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. DEP Calendar of Events [DEP No Longer Publishes a single Calendar of agency meetings] Note: The Environmental Education Workshop Calendar is no longer available from the PA Center for Environmental Education because funding for the Center was eliminated in the FY 2011-12 state budget. The PCEE website was also shutdown, but some content was moved to the PA Association of Environmental Educators' website. Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule

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

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