Pa Environment Digest Dec. 20, 2010

8/8/2019 Pa Environment Digest Dec. 20, 2010

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PA Environment DigestAn Update On Environmental Issues In

PA

Edited By: David E. Hess, Crisci Associates

Winner 2009 PAEE Business Partner Of The Year Award

< PA Resources Council

Harrisburg, Pa December 20,

2010

Dimock Residents To Share $4.1 Million In DEP Settlement With Cabot Oil

Residents of Dimock Township, Susquehanna County, who have had their drinking water

supplies contaminated by natural gas will each receive a share of $4.1 million that Cabot Oil and

Gas Co. will pay under a settlement negotiated by the Department of Environmental Protection

and the company.

The settlement, which will enable the affected families to address their individual

circumstances as they see fit, also binds Cabot to offer and pay to install whole-house gas

mitigation devices in each of the 19 affected homes.

Cabot also will pay DEP $500,000 to offset the state's expense of investigating the stray

gas migration cases that have plagued Dimock residents for nearly two years."The 19 families in Dimock who have been living under very difficult conditions for far

too long will receive a financial settlement that will allow them to address their own

circumstances in their own way," said DEP Secretary John Hanger, who explained that the

amount paid to each family will equal two-times the value of their home, with a minimum

payment of $50,000.

"In addition to the significant monetary component of this settlement, there is a

requirement that Cabot continue to work with us to ensure that none of their wells allow gas to

migrate," Secretary Hanger noted.

"This agreement provides a reasonable and pragmatic way forward for all parties," said

Dan O. Dinges, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Cabot Oil. "The common

ground we found to settle provides the right balance of regulations, financial payments, timelyexecution and operational safeguards that in the end will protect the resources of Pennsylvania,

promote economic development of clean-burning natural gas and continue to create good paying

jobs in the natural gas industry.

"We have been committed to responsible operations within Susquehanna County, and we

have redoubled our efforts with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources to
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resolve past issues. Today's announcement signifies a tremendous effort on all sides to move

forward with resolution and closure."

DEP began investigating reports of stray gas in Dimock water wells in January 2009. A

consent order and agreement signed in November 2009 required Cabot to install whole-house

treatment systems in 14 homes, but residents found that action to be unsatisfactory.

The agreement was modified in April 2010 and DEP ordered Cabot to cap three wellsbelieved to be the source of the migrating gas. DEP also suspended its review of Cabot's pending

permit applications for new drilling activities statewide and prohibited the company from drilling

any new wells in a nine-square-mile area around Dimock.

In September, DEP announced that Pennsylvania American Water Co. would construct a

5.5-mile water main from its Lake Montrose water treatment plant to supply the affected Dimock

residents with a reliable source of quality drinking water.

In November, the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority approved an $11.8

million grant and loan package for the project, with the Commonwealth intending to recover the

cost of the project from Cabot.

Given the opposition to the planned water line and the uncertain future the project faces,

Secretary Hanger said the department would abandon its pursuit of the project."Our primary goal at the department has always been to ensure that the wells Cabot

drilled in Dimock were safe and that they were not contaminating local private water supplies,"

said Secretary Hanger. "We've made great progress in doing that. Since we initiated our

enforcement actions, gas levels in a majority of the contaminated water wells have gone down

significantly. This agreement lays the foundation for families to finally put an end to this ordeal."

NewsClips: Cabot To Pay $4.1 Million In Settlement

Cabot To Pay $4.1 Million for Gas Contamination

Rendell Calls Dimock Plan A Good Settlement

Dimock Settlement Draws Criticism, Praise

Dimock Water Settlement Leaves Town Divided

Rendell, General Assembly Will Leave Gov.-Elect Tom Corbett With $4.5 Billion Deficit

Gov. Rendell this weeksaid FY 2010-11 should end June 30 with a $63 million shortfall caused,

he said, by the General Assembly's failure to enact a Marcellus Shale natural gas severance tax.

Senate Democrats, however, said incoming Gov.-Elect Tom Corbett and the next General

Assembly will face a $4.5 billion budget deficit.

"Our revenue is coming in on-target and we have made necessary budget cuts across state

government," Gov. Rendell said. "The primary threat to ending the year with a balanced budget

is the General Assembly's failure to enact a severance tax on natural gas extraction in the

Marcellus Shale region, as legislators had pledged they would do."I believe our mid-year budget review is a conservative estimate," the Governor said. "I

remain hopeful that revenue will continue to exceed expectations and - combined with the

decisions we've made to freeze spending - the budget will come into balance."

At a separate press availability, Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) and

Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia), Minority Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee

said the loss of federal stimulus money, the new pension legislation and a projected case load
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increase of 3 to 5 percent in the case loads at the Department of Public Welfare will result in

a $4.5 billionbudget deficit the incoming Corbett Administration must handle.

Sen. Costa said some revenue growth estimates have state revenues increasing by $750 to

$800 million, but Pennsylvania's unemployment level remains high.

Speaking to a group of local social service agencies about budget issues, Sen. Hughes

said, "If you are not out there spreading the word, then you are not doing your job. That's why Icalled you out here on the Friday before Christmas in the cold. You have to be involved in the

front end of this process. The new governor has said he will not raise taxes, that he's going to do

it with cuts. I think it's hard to imagine how that can happen but you should be ready for it."

Sen. Jake Corman (R-Centre), Majority Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee,

said there is at least a $3.8 billion structural deficit the new General Assembly and Governor will

have to deal with. He agreed, however, the deficit could easily top $4 billion and said, "The

next budget will be rough."

Officials are projecting that revenues will end the year on estimate, the Governor said.

Pennsylvania's investments in economic development, job training and education - combined

with a commitment to efficiency and fiscal discipline that has made it possible to cut the cost of

running state government by 14 percent since 2003 - have made Pennsylvania one of the mostfiscally stable states in the nation.

The $28 billion 2010-11 enacted budget is $290 million less than the pre-recession

2008-09 enacted budget, and is just 0.7 percent higher than the 2009-10 budget, the Governor

noted.

Because of decisions in Washington made after the state's 2010-11 budget was enacted,

the commonwealth received $280 million less than anticipated in federal fiscal relief for Medical

Assistance for the current fiscal year, he said.

In response, the Governor called for another round of budget cuts, including cuts to

public schools and a 1.9 percent across-the-board reduction in discretionary spending by state

government, resulting in $200 million in savings.All agencies under the Governor's control made the necessary cuts, as did the Treasury

Department, the Attorney General, the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency and

the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency.

The Commonwealth began the current fiscal year with a projected $12 million year-end

surplus. Budget officials also identified $70 million in unused funds from prior years that can be

used to offset the shortfall in the amount of anticipated federal funds, he said.

However, because the recession continues to hurt so many families, demand for safety

net programs like Medical Assistance is higher than originally estimated - costing Pennsylvania

an additional $65 million through June, the Governor said.

The post-enactment adjustments in spending and the additional cost pressures caused by

the recession leave a $63 million projected shortfall in the current fiscal year. "That is, of course,the hole created by the legislature's failure to enact a severance tax," he said.

Gov. Rendell's concern with controlling administrative spending dates to the beginning of

his administration. When he took office in January 2003, he directed agencies to control their

spending growth.

As a result, he said, "We cut the cost of running state government by 14 percent -

meaning that we are spending less today on administrative costs than when I took office in

2003."
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New management and productivity initiatives have resulted in annual savings of more

than $1.75 billion, he said.

The size of the Commonwealth workforce also has shrunk under Governor Rendell.

There are now 4,875 fewer filled positions than in January 2003 - a decline of 6 percent to

76,782 employees. Pennsylvania has the second-lowest total number of state employees of the

eight most populous states.When the national financial crisis began in September 2008, the Governor took further

action to reduce administrative spending. These initiatives - which included a general hiring

freeze, out-of-state travel restrictions, a reduction in the size of the Commonwealth's vehicle

fleet, and a freeze on cabinet and non-union employees' salaries - remain in place today.

"These actions were difficult but necessary to help the Commonwealth continue its

mission of providing essential services to Pennsylvania's citizens," the Governor said. "I

appreciate the dedication of our Commonwealth employees, who in the past several years have

become expert at doing more with less."

"While the economy is certainly not out of the woods yet, I am confident that the choices

we've made - including prudent investments and reducing the cost of running government - are

contributing to our economic recovery," he said.The Mid-Year Budget Briefing presentation is available online.

NewsClips: PA Revenue Project Close, But Bigger Problems Lie Ahead

Rendell: PA Likely To Have Modest Deficit By June 30

PA Tax Collection Up But Deficit Still Looms

Rendell: State Revenue On Target

Rendell Laments Lack Of Marcellus Revenues

Legislator's Reserve Fund Trimmed To $188 Million

Lawmakers Call For Giving Up Legislative Surplus

Op-Ed: Taxing Marcellus Shale Drilling Would Be Mistake For PA

Poll: Public Wants Cuts Before Raising Taxes To Deal With Budget

A new poll released this week by Quinnipiac University found the pubic supports cutting

services before raising taxes 56 to 30 percent and 60 percent believe the state budget problem is

very serious while another 33 percent call it somewhat serious.

The option of selling the state liquor stores was the most popular option for raising more

revenue. 54 percent supported selling the stores, 17 percent favored leasing the Turnpike, 14

percent were for laying off state workers and 7 percent though raising taxes was a good idea.

Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule

The General Assembly has adjourned for the year and all bills must be reintroduced and start

over in January.

Session Schedule

Here is the Senate and House schedule for early 2011--
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Senate

January 4, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26

February 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 28

March 1, 2 (Budget presentation first full week in March)

HouseJanuary 4, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26

February 7, 8, 9, 14, 15, 16, 28

March 1, 2

Governor

New Governor takes office on January 18.

Calendars

None

Committees

No new meetings scheduled.

Capital News

December Environmental Synopsis Features Extreme Recycling, Environmental Forum

Set

The Joint Legislative Air and Water Pollution Control and Conservation Committee's December

Environmental Synopsis features the ABC-TV show Extreme Makeover - Home Edition and its

recent green building project in Berks County.

The PA Recycling Markets Centerhelped the show use recycled content products in the

completion of the project.

Other articles include: EPA greenhouse gas emissions permitting, high mileage vehicles,

EPA clean water strategy and more.

Environmental Forum

On January 24 the Committee will hold its first Environmental Issues Forum of 2011

featuring a presentation by Marci Mowery, president of the PA Parks and Forests Foundation on

the Goddard Legacy Project.On February 15 the Committee and the PA Recycling Markets Center and PA Waste

Industries Association will hold the 2011 PA Recycling Industries Congress in the East Wing of

the Capitol Building.

Rep. Scott Hutchison (R-Venango) serves as Committee Chair.

News From Around The State
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U.S.D.A. Seeks Applicants For Conservation Innovation Grants

U.S.D.A. is seeking proposals for $25 million in Conservation Innovation Grants to improve

water quality, air quality and promote energy conservation, with an emphasis on the Chesapeake

Bay Watershed and Mississippi River Basin.Pre-proposal applications must be received at the NRCS National Headquarters by close

of business December 28. The funding is available through USDA's Natural Resources

Conservation Service.

"The Obama Administration is committed to ensuring private lands are conserved,

restored, and more resilient to environmental challenges, like climate change," said Agriculture

Secretary Thomas Vilsack. "USDA is seeking grant applications from farmers and our

conservation partners to solve America's natural resource challenges."

Now in its eighth year, the CIG program offers funding dedicated to the adoption of

technologies to address a broad range of agricultural issues. For example, the Michigan

Department of Agriculture worked with Michigan State University and agricultural landowners

to establish conservation practices for high-risk erosion areas, with a goal of reducing sedimentand nutrient runoff.

Also, Coaltec Energy USA, Inc. demonstrated that energy can be extracted from chicken

litter to heat poultry houses. Working with agricultural partners, the firm installed a gasification

system on a West Virginia farm that uses poultry litter as fuel. The system significantly reduced

fuel costs for the producer.

Successful applicants will demonstrate that their projects use innovative, on-the-ground

conservation approaches and technologies. Funds will be awarded through a nationwide

competitive grants process with applications being accepted from all 50 States, the Caribbean

Area (the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands) and the Pacific Islands Area

(Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands).Applications will be accepted from all eligible individuals, non-federal governments and

non-governmental organizations, including federally recognized tribes and private businesses.

This year, a two-phase competitive process will be implemented. In phase one, all

applicants will be required to submit a pre-proposal; in phase two, only those applicants selected

during the pre-proposal phase will be asked to submit a full application package.

All proposed CIG projects must involve producers who are eligible for NRCS'

Environmental Quality Incentives Program, which offers financial and technical assistance to

help producers implement conservation practices on agricultural land.

The federal contribution for a single project cannot exceed $1 million. At least 50 percent

of the total cost of the project must come from non-federal matching funds (cash and in-kind

contributions) provided by the grantee. Grants are available for single or multi-year projects, notto exceed 3 years.

Proposed projects must comply with the description of innovative conservation projects

or activities established in the Announcement for Program Funding. To apply electronically,

visit the Grants.gov website.

For more information, contact your local USDA Service Center.

NRCS Funding For Conservation-Minded Producers Available
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Ag producers and non-industrial forestland owners may be eligible to receive payments to

maintain high levels of conservation on their land and adopt higher levels of stewardship through

USDA's Conservation Stewardship Program.

The application deadline is January 7.

CSP is offered in all 50 states, District of Columbia, and the Pacific and Caribbean areasthrough continuous sign-ups with announced cut-off dates for ranking periods. CSP offers over

95 choices of enhancements and/or bundles of enhancements for producers to choose from that

will benefit natural resources, including improvement of water and soil quality, wildlife habitat

enhancement, and adoption of conservation activities that address the effects of climate change

and alternative energy.

All agricultural producers and non-industrial forestland owners are encouraged to apply

for CSP. Eligible lands include cropland (including hayland), pastureland, and non-industrial

forestland. In 2010, the average payment for cropland/pastureland was $18-$55 per acre/year for

5 years and forestland averaged $7-14/acre/year for 5 years.

Stewardship payments are made for both maintaining current high levels of conservation

on farmland or forestland, and further enhancing conservation efforts on soil, water, animals,plants, air and energy.

A CSP self-screening checklist is available to help producers determine if they are

eligible for CSP and if CSP is suitable for their operation. The checklist highlights basic

information about CSP eligibility requirements, contract obligations and potential payments.

Applications are available online or from local NRCS offices.

PA American Water Accepting College Scholarship Applications

Pennsylvania American Waterthis week announced the kick-off its 2010-2011 Stream of

Learning Scholarship Program to provide college scholarship assistance to students living inPennsylvania American Waters service areas. The deadline for applications is February 11.

The program is designed to support outstanding students who are charting a course of

study in specific fields that are crucial to the water and wastewater industry, from engineering to

environmental science.

The Stream of Learning Scholarship Program enables us to support bright and

committed students who are interested in pursuing a career in the water and wastewater

industry, said Kathy L. Pape, president of Pennsylvania American Water. We are looking to

attract talented young people to the industry who will share our commitment to maintaining

public health, protecting the environment and promoting economic development.

The company will award ten $2,000 scholarships to students throughout Pennsylvania.

Applicants must meet the following criteria and will be selected through an application process:-- 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.

The company recently mailed scholarship brochures and applications to high school

guidance counselors throughout its service territory.
http://www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/CSP/index.htmlhttp://www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/CSP/index.htmlhttp://www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/http://www.amwater.com/paaw/http://www.amwater.com/files/Scholarship_Application.pdfhttp://www.amwater.com/files/Scholarship_Application.pdfhttp://www.amwater.com/files/Scholarship_Application.pdfhttp://www.amwater.com/files/Scholarship_Application.pdfhttp://www.amwater.com/paaw/http://www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/http://www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/CSP/index.htmlhttp://www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/CSP/index.html


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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.

Applications can be downloaded from the companys website.

Drought Watches Lifted For 21 Counties, Water Levels Return To Normal

Based on the recommendations of the Pennsylvania Drought Task Force, the Department of

Environmental Protection announced it has lifted drought watch declarations for 21 western

counties.

Watches were lifted for Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Clarion, Crawford, Elk,

Erie, Fayette, Forest, Greene, Indiana, Jefferson, Lawrence, McKean, Mercer, Somerset,

Venango, Warren, Washington and Westmoreland counties.

"After monitoring the various indicators, we found that recent substantial precipitation

has had a large impact on the region. Recovery is underway and appears to be sustained," said

Secretary John Hanger. "All 67 counties are now in normal status."

After a hot and dry summer, drought watches or warnings were issued in September for

all 67 counties. By November 10, conditions had returned to normal for 46 eastern and centralcounties. However, the remaining 21 counties continued to experience 90-day precipitation

deficits has high as four inches.

Significant rainfall in early December eliminated those deficits and surface water levels

have returned to normal for this time of year. The Pennsylvania Drought Task Force used reports

and forecasts from the National Weather Service in conjunction with DEP's drought monitoring

program to form the recommendation.

A drought watch declaration is the first level-and least severe-of the state's three drought

classifications. It calls for a voluntary 5-percent reduction in non-essential water use.

For more information, visit the DEP Drought Conditions webpage.

DEP Issues Updated Fish Consumption Advisories For 2011

The Department of Environmental Protection this week released an updated list offish

consumption advisories that includes nine new advisories, but also eases or lifts seven other

advisories.

DEP also announced there are currently no advisories for Pymatuning Reservoir or

Tamarack Lake for 2011. The fish in Pymatuning Reservoir are safe to eat when consumed

according to the recommended statewide advisory of one meal per week.

The advisories are only for fish caught recreationally and do not apply to fish raised for

commercial purposes or those bought in stores or restaurants.

"Consumption advisories are not intended to discourage anyone from fishing or eatingfresh fish in moderation," DEP Secretary John Hanger said. "However, at-risk groups and people

who regularly eat sport fish are most susceptible to contaminants that can build up in fish over

time and should space out fish meals according to these advisories, and in consultation with their

physician."

While fish can be part of a healthy, balanced diet, some fish caught in Pennsylvania may

contain chemicals of concern such as mercury and PCBs. These contaminants exist in some

waterways due to unregulated industrial practices of the past.
http://www.amwater.com/files/Scholarship_Application.pdfhttp://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/drought_information/10606http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/drought_information/10606http://www.fishandboat.com/fishpub/summary/sumconsumption.pdfhttp://www.fishandboat.com/fishpub/summary/sumconsumption.pdfhttp://www.fishandboat.com/fishpub/summary/sumconsumption.pdfhttp://www.fishandboat.com/fishpub/summary/sumconsumption.pdfhttp://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/drought_information/10606http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/drought_information/10606http://www.amwater.com/files/Scholarship_Application.pdf


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Consumers can reduce the potential risk of exposure to organic contaminants by properly

cleaning, skinning, trimming and cooking fish. Proper preparation generally includes trimming

away fat and broiling or grilling the fish to allow remaining fat to drip away. Juices and fats that

cook out of the fish should not be eaten or reused for cooking or preparing other foods.

All of Pennsylvania remains under a blanket advisory that recommends limiting

consumption of any recreationally-caught fish to one meal per week. This advisory is designed toprotect against eating large amounts of fish from waters that have not been tested, or for certain

species that have not been tested or fish that may contain other unidentified contaminants. One

meal is considered to be one-half pound of fish for a 150-pound person.

For 2011, the following new advisories have been added due to mercury contamination:

-- Two meals per month advisory for Smallmouth Bass in the Delaware River in Wayne, Pike,

and Monroe counties;

-- One meal per month advisory for Largemouth Bass in Shohola Lake in Pike County;

-- Two meals per month advisory for Largemouth Bass in Lackawanna Lake in Lackawanna

County;

-- Two meals per month advisory for Largemouth Bass in Stephen Foster Lake in Bradford

County;-- One meal per month advisory for Smallmouth Bass in the Susquehanna River in Bradford and

Wyoming counties;

-- Two meals per month advisory for Smallmouth Bass in the Allegheny River in Warren, Forest,

and Venango counties;

-- One meal per month advisory for Northern Pike in Conneaut Lake in Crawford County; and

-- One meal per month advisory for Largemouth Bass in Crystal Lake in Crawford County.

One new advisory has been added due to PCB contamination:

-- One meal per month advisory has been issued for Corbicula (Asiatic Clam) in the Schuylkill

River in Chester, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties.

The following PCB advisories have been eased but not lifted:-- Carp in the Monongahela and the Ohio Rivers at the Point in Pittsburgh has been reduced to a

one meal per month advisory;

-- Channel Catfish in the Ohio River at the Point in Pittsburgh has been reduced to a one meal

per month advisory;

-- Brown Trout in Valley Creek in Chester County has been reduced to a one meal per month

advisory. Note: Valley Creek remains a No Harvest - PFBC Catch and Release All Tackle

Regulation.

Consumption advisories have been lifted for the following:

-- Lackawanna Lake in Lackawanna County for Bluegill;

-- West Conewago Creek in York County for Smallmouth Bass;

-- Allegheny, Monongahela, and Ohio Rivers at the Point in Pittsburgh for Freshwater Drum;-- Licking Creek in Fulton and Franklin Counties for Smallmouth Bass.

In the spring of 2010, large numbers of dead fish appeared in Pymatuning Reservoir,

Tamarack Lake, and a few other Ohio and New York State lakes. The final cause of the kills was

determined to be rapidly rising water temperatures, which stressed local fish populations.

Before the cause was found, temporary Do Not Eat advisories were issued for fish

caught in Pymatuning and Tamarack. Those advisories were lifted in June.

For more information, download the Fish Advisories Summary.
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Storage Tank Insurance Fee To Remain The Same In 2011

The Underground Storage Tank Indemnification Board voted this week not to increase USTIF

fees for next year. The Board took the action after receiving the annual report from the Fund's

actuaries which indicated the fund is solvent without a fee increase for the next several years.The Board also discussed an ongoing examination of the collection process currently in

place for the per gallon fee. Estimates are that as much as $5 to $7 million dollars a year may be

falling through the cracks due to the lack of information currently available to the Board.

Appalachian Trail Conservancy Awarded $100,000 For South Mountain Partnership

The Appalachian Trail Conservancy has been awarded additional grant funds from the

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for local communities to preserve and

promote their natural and cultural assets which provide economic benefits.

This grant will help fund the South Mountain Mini-Grant Program, administered through

the South Mountain Partnership.The South Mountain Partnership Mini-Grant Program has been developed and overseen

by ATC since 2009 to encourage economic development among local communities by funding

projects to build trails, conduct outdoor festivals, and develop promotional guides for local

agriculture and forest products. $100,000 in grants was awarded since 2009 with over $184,708

in grantees match.

In 2011 $150,000 in grants will be available with a required 1:1 match. The next grant

application will be available in January 2011 and applications will be due July 30, 2011.

ATC and DCNR encourage any municipality, non-profit, or learning institution to begin

considering projects that may fit the grant criteria. A sample application and frequently asked

questions are available on the Partnership website.The Appalachian Trail Conservancys grant program emphasizes multi-partner regional

collaborations and in result we have seen incredible long term relationships develop. It is a

major goal of the South Mountain Partnership to foster these strong partnerships that steward and

promote our assets, stated Kim Williams, Landscape Protection Associate of the Appalachian

Trail Conservancy.

ATC and DCNR lead the South Mountain Partnership, an alliance of the private and

public sector, non-profits, universities, and local citizens in Adams, Cumberland, Franklin, and

Northern York Counties.

The Partnership identifies its key role as being a regional facilitator and leader in projects

that preserve and promote the natural and cultural assets of the region. ATC was chosen to be the

lead of the Partnership because of its local roots and extensive conservation work acrossPennsylvania and especially in Central Pennsylvania.

Funds come from DCNRs Community Conservation Partnerships Program and come

from both the Keystone Recreation, Park and Conservation Fund, the Environmental

Stewardship Fund (Growing Greener 1) and the Growing Greener Bond Fund (Growing Greener

2), and several federal funding sources.

The Nature Conservancy: Real vs Fake: Which Is The Greenest Christmas Tree?
http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/offices___organizational_charts/9304/ustif_-_underground_storage_tank_indemnification_fund/606627http://www.appalachiantrail.org/site/c.mqLTIYOwGlF/b.4805859/k.BFA3/Home.htmhttp://southmountaincli.blogspot.com/http://southmountaincli.blogspot.com/http://southmountaincli.blogspot.com/http://southmountaincli.blogspot.com/http://www.appalachiantrail.org/site/c.mqLTIYOwGlF/b.4805859/k.BFA3/Home.htmhttp://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/offices___organizational_charts/9304/ustif_-_underground_storage_tank_indemnification_fund/606627


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More than half of American families now choose fake Christmas trees over natural, a trend that

could have serious consequences for our environment.

Fake trees are usually made from a kind of plastic called polyvinyl chloride which is

derived from petroleum, and is manufactured using processed that have been criticized for air

and water pollution as well as energy use.Approximately 85 percent of the fake trees sold in the US are shipped here from China.

Most of China's electricity comes from burning coalthe dirtiest source of electricity. Once the

fake trees are made, they still have to be shipped across the oceanusually in a diesel-fuel

powered ship.

And real trees grow in the ground for several years before they are cut, absorbing

greenhouse gases out of the atmosphere every year. The vast majority of real trees today come

from Christmas tree farmsabout 12,000 of which exist in the United States.

On these farms each tree cut is typically replaced by a new tree or two or three, which

continue removing carbon from the air. In a given holiday season, about 30 million trees are cut

nationwide, while hundreds of millions of farmed trees continue to grow.

A study released last year by an independent sustainable development organization foundthat natural Christmas trees have a smaller carbon footprint, over their life cycle, than their

artificial counterparts.

"Healthy forests are one of the best strategies we have to combat climate change, and

well-managed tree farms can be an important part of this effort," said Dylan Jenkins, Director of

Forest Conservation forThe Nature Conservancy's Pennsylvania Chapter.

Natural, locally sourced trees also help protect the family tree farms that keep

Pennsylvania's forests economically viable. Pennsylvania's newest forest conservation program,

Working Woodlands, works with small forest landowners, including tree farmers, to help keep

the Commonwealth's forests healthy, so that they can support our environment and our economy,

Jenkins said.What can you do?

-- Choose a natural tree and buy local. TheNational Christmas Tree Association offers a zip-

code searchable listing to help you find a nearby farm;

-- Try to find an organic Christmas tree: Freymoyer Christmas Tree Farm in Harris, Laurel

Valley Tree Farm in New Florence and Ruff's Christmas Trees in Schuylkill Haven are among

the local businesses that offer pesticide-free trees; and

-- Recycle your Christmas tree: Use its boughs to bank your home's foundation, offering

additional insulation or contact one of the many local businesses and municipalities that collect

trees to produce mulch or burn them to produce energy.

PROP Encourages Residents To Green Up Their Holiday

The Staff of the Professional Recyclers of Pennsylvania, the Commonwealths state recycling

association, has just one wish for Christmas that all of their neighbors across the state go green.

To help make their wish come true, the PROP staff have a gift for you - this list of ideas

on how to have a very happy holiday while being good to our green earth:
http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/pennsylvania/http://www.nature.org/workingwoodlandshttp://www.christmastree.org/http://www.proprecycles.org/http://www.proprecycles.org/http://www.christmastree.org/http://www.nature.org/workingwoodlandshttp://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/pennsylvania/


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1. If you have not yet gotten your tree, find a local tree farm and cut your own tree. Save on

carbon emissions from trees cut and transported many miles while getting fresh air and exercise.

Or, buy a potted evergreen.

2. When the holidays are over, dont toss that tree in the landfill. Prop it up outside for the winter

and decorate with popcorn, nuts and berries for your wildlife friends to enjoy. In the spring, finda local farmer who can add it to his compost pile. Or start your own compost pile. We can help

(see below).

3. Time to decorate that tree? Cut energy costs by using LED lights that use 90 percent less

energy than conventional holiday lights. LED lights now come in just as many fun shapes and

colors as the old style, stay cool to the touch and last for many years.

4. When you go shopping, plan your trip to avoid unnecessary driving. Start at the farthest point

and work your way home. OR order online but hurry! According to

StopGlobalWarming.org, e-commerce warehouses use 1/16th of the energy used to operate

retail stores. And even overnight air shipping uses 40 percent less fuel than the average car trip tothe store.

5. BPA-free or aluminum water bottles make great stocking stuffers. Theyre a perfect way to

meet New Years resolutions like eliminating purchasing all of that bottled water that require up

to 2,000 times more energy to produce than tap water.

6. Need a WOW gift for your mother-in-law? Take yourself to the local department or

discount store household section. There you will find the latest in a new old-fashioned eco-

friendly trend the cloth napkin. Save trees, reduce waste, and jazz up her dining room table

with cloth napkins that come in a myriad of colors. Get your household a set too and help save amillion trees!

7. PROP Staffers like to eat and when we bring food in for a special lunch, we cover the bowls

with shower caps instead of plastic wrap. Plastic wrap cant be recycled and NEVER degrades,

but shower caps can be re-used for a long time. You can buy fancy ones specifically sold for

kitchen use or get a set of basic shower caps, wash and get cooking!

8. My mother used to call herself The Bag Lady because she just loved getting canvas bags,

shopping bags, gift bags if it was a bag with a handle, she kept it. Bags are now in big demand

as we realize just how bad plastic shopping bags are for the environment. Even if you take your

bags back to the store for recycling, you are in the minority. Only about 22 percent of Americansrecycle those plastic bags. The other 88 percent find their way to trees along the interstate, in

waterways where they choke turtles and fish as well as clog drains. If you have cool bags in a

collection, why not get them out and use them for that last minute holiday shopping? And give

them to friends. Keep a few bags beside you in the car for those quick trips to the mall or

discount store. They arent just for the grocery store, you know.


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9. Decorating and shopping done; now its time to wrap gifts. You can keep the green theme

going by using alternatives to non-recyclable wrapping paper. Use the comics section of a

newspaper, childrens artwork, old maps, gift bags that can be re-used next year, or those

WOW cloth napkins or other cloth. (Americans generate enough non-recyclable wrapping

paper over the holidays to cover 45,000 football fields.)

10. All that decorating, shopping and wrapping sure make you work up an appetite. (See, we

really do like to eat!) Just like with the tree, support your local farmers when you purchase

locally grown meat and produce and any other food that is produced locally. Buy your poinsettia

and other holiday flowers from a local nursery too. Become conscious of the amount of

packaging when you shop too less packaging is a big clue that its likely produced locally. If

we all avoid purchasing products (including toys, household items and food) that have a lot of

packaging, manufacturers will get the hint and become better stewards of their products.

Individual portion foods are a big culprit, as well as many toys. Avoid them every time you

shop!

For more great ideas about green holidays as well as other recycling and organics ideas,visit the PROP website.

Keep America Beautiful Presents PennDOT With Partner Award

Keep America Beautiful President and CEO Matthew M. McKenna presented Pennsylvania with

one of nine Keep America Beautiful/U.S. State Department of Transportation Partner Awards at

the recent Keep America Beautiful National Awards ceremony.

The Keep America Beautiful National Awards were presented during its 57th annual

National Conference in Orlando, Fla.

The Keep America Beautiful/U.S. State Department of Transportation Partner Awardsrecognizes state DOTs for their support of Keep America Beautiful affiliates through joint

partnership projects. These awards were created to recognize the high value Keep America

Beautiful places on public-private partnerships.

Public-private partnerships are critical to making substantial gains in reducing roadside

litter and illegal dumping, said McKenna. Our State Department of Transportation Partner

Awards represents the fine work that state Departments of Transportation achieve with their

respective Keep America Beautiful state affiliate partners.

Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, along with the Department of Environmental Protection

and Keep America Beautiful, partners with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation to

host the Great American Cleanup of PA.

In the 2010 Great American Cleanup of PA, 186,487 volunteers picked up over 12million pounds of trash. PennDOTs Adopt-A-Highway program is a big contributor to the

Great American Cleanup of PA. PennDOT also ships donated supplies like bags, gloves, and

vests to district offices across the state from their warehouse in Harrisburg so registered

volunteer groups can easily get want they need to do cleanups.

The U.S. State Department of Transportation Partner Award winners are: Arizona

Department of Transportation; California Department of Transportation; Georgia DOT;

Mississippi Department of Transportation; North Carolina Department of Transportation; Ohio
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Department of Transportation; Pennsylvania Department of Transportation; Tennessee

Department of Transportation; and Texas Department of Transportation.

In addition to these award-winners, Keep America Beautiful also recognized nearly 100

other outstanding organizations and individuals for their achievements in promoting litter

prevention, recycling, community beautification and environmental stewardship at its awards

ceremonies.

Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful Honored By Keep America Beautiful

Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful received Keep America Beautiful Presidents Circle Award at the

Presidents Circle Award Luncheon, during Keep America Beautifuls 57th annual National

Conference in Orlando, Fla.

The Presidents Circle Award recognizes exemplary performance made by certified

affiliates of the national nonprofit to reduce litter, minimize waste and recycle, and beautify their

local communities.

One of Keep America Beautifuls most effective tools is the work of our grassroots

network of affiliate organizations, which has an impact on millions of Americans each year,said Keep America Beautiful President and CEO Matthew M. McKenna. Our affiliates are

providing real solutions to problems like litter, graffiti, illegal dumping and other community

blights. By engaging people of all ages in community improvement efforts, Keep Pennsylvania

Beautiful is represented among the best in promoting the values Keep America Beautiful

espouses nationally.

PA Resources Council: New Tailgating Ritual At Steelers Games-- Recycling

Tailgating at Steelers football games is a tradition for thousands of

fans and part of that ritual is drinking plenty of beverages - and thatleaves plenty of empty cans and bottles.

Now the Pennsylvania Resources Council and the Alcoa

Foundation are trying to make recycling all of those empty

containers a new tradition.

The Allegheny Fronts Ryan Delaney was at the kick-off to

the new recycling program and filed this radio report.

At the final three Steelers home games of the 2010 regular season, the Pennsylvania

Resources Council and its partners will collect recyclables at tailgating parties outside Heinz

Field.

The Lets Tackle Recycling campaign funded by the Alcoa Foundation will gather

aluminum cans, glass containers, and plastic bottles and cups on December 19 (Steelers vs. Jets)and December 23 (Steelers vs. Panthers).

Sporting events provide a great opportunity to reinforce the importance of recycling, and

education is a key component of this campaign, said Dave Mazza, Regional Director of the

Pennsylvania Resources Council. PRC and its campaign partners are encouraging people to

recycle at away from home venues by making recycling easy and convenient.
http://www.keeppabeautiful.org/http://www.prc.org/http://www.alleghenyfront.org/story.html?storyid=201012150931230.611241http://www.alleghenyfront.org/story.html?storyid=201012150931230.611241http://www.prc.org/http://www.keeppabeautiful.org/


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Alco Parking attendants will distribute large blue recycling

bags to fans as they enter six designated parking lots located along

General Robinson Street. Tailgaters will be encouraged to place all

bottles, cans and plastic containers in the bags during their pre-

game parties. A recycling team will circulate throughout the lots to

provide additional recycling bags, help collect filled bags andgenerally encourage fans to recycle.

Recycling saves energy, conserves resources and reduces

the need for new landfills, according to Beth Schmitt, Alcoas

Director of Recycling. Aluminum is infinitely recyclable. It takes

95 percent less energy to make a can from recycled aluminum than from raw materials, and the

energy saved from recycling just one pound of aluminum could power an average home for four

days.

The campaigns Lets Tackle Recycling team members will staff a drop-off station

located outside the stadium on General Robinson Street.

Recycling can be fun, so were joining the party atmosphere outside Heinz Field by

setting up the worlds largest recycling cornhole game at the drop-off station, said Mazza. Stopby to try your luck and skill at tossing a giant 30-gallon bag filled with recyclables through a

hole thats more than two feet wide.

In addition to awarding prizes to those winning the cornhole contest, team members will

pass out a raffle ticket to each individual dropping off a blue bag of recyclables. One grand prize

winner each week will win a Steelers souvenir item.

Each games collection effort will benefit a local non-profit organization that will receive

the proceeds from marketing the recyclable materials collected at the event (minimum donation

to non-profit of $500 per game).

Volunteers from North Side non-profit agencies will work as green team members at

the events, said Mazza. Manchester PTA will serve as our partner for games on December 12and 23, and Allegheny Unitarian Universalist Church will team up with us on December 19.

Lets Tackle Recycling is sponsored by PRC and the Alcoa Foundation in partnership

with Alco Parking, City of Pittsburgh Environmental Services, Greenstar, Pittsburgh Steelers and

the Sports & Exhibition Authority. For more information, call 412-488-7490, x243.

NewsClips: Steelers Tailgating Ritual: Recycling

Program Encourages Steelers Tailgaters To Recycle

Save The Date: 2011 PA Recycling Industries Congress February 15

The PA Recycling Markets Centerand PA Waste Industries Association is hosting the 2011 PA

Recycling Industries Congress on February 15 in the East Wing of the Capitol Building.Click here for more information or send email to: [email protected].

Covanta Energy Extends Program To Safely Destroy Prescription Drugs

Based on evidence of pollution in waterways and drinking water, as well as an increase in

pharmaceutical drug abuse, Covanta Energy Corporation developed the Prescription for Safety
http://www.alcoa.com/global/en/community/foundation/info_page/about_overview.asphttp://www.alleghenyfront.org/story.html?storyid=201012150931230.611241http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10347/1110355-113.stmhttp://www.parmc.org/http://www.pawasteindustries.org/http://www.parmc.org/node/530http://www.parmc.org/node/530http://www.parmc.org/node/530mailto:[email protected]://www.covantaenergy.com/http://www.covantaenergy.com/mailto:[email protected]://www.parmc.org/node/530http://www.parmc.org/node/530http://www.parmc.org/node/530http://www.pawasteindustries.org/http://www.parmc.org/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10347/1110355-113.stmhttp://www.alleghenyfront.org/story.html?storyid=201012150931230.611241http://www.alcoa.com/global/en/community/foundation/info_page/about_overview.asp


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Program (Rx4Safety) to safely dispose of medications collected at community-sponsored drug

take-back programs, free of charge.

The program was set to expire in 2010; however, based on the program's success and

encouragement by its partners and clients, Covanta has elected to extend the program through the

end of 2011.

Since launching the program earlier this year, Covanta Energy-from-Waste (EfW)facilities have destroyed more than 30,000 pounds of unwanted medications from collections

held by municipalities, community groups, and law enforcement agencies around the United

States.

Take-back events, like the recent national Drug Enforcement Agency campaign and

efforts by the National Association of Drug Diversion Investigators provide a safe, confidential

and proper way to dispose of unwanted medications, including prescription and over-the-counter

drugs, veterinary medications and nutritional supplements.

Utilizing Covanta's Rx4Safety program enables groups holding take-back events to

ensure environmentally proper disposal. Covanta Energy's EfW facilities provide safe,

environmentally sound destruction that protects water resources and keeps unauthorized users

safe from abuse.When flushed down the drain, or disposed of in landfills, medications find their way into

waterways and contaminate surface waters, having an adverse effect on our drinking water and

the environment. A recent study conducted by the Maine Department of Environmental

Protection shows that unwanted prescription drugs being tossed into landfills pose a threat to

surface and groundwater supplies around the state.

Test results of leachate at three Maine landfills showed concentrations of a wide range of

pharmaceuticals. These drugs cannot be removed from water supplies at typical waste water

treatment plants and the contaminated water can then have negative effects on aquatic organisms,

fish, and other wildlife.

"Covanta was motivated to roll out the Rx4Safety program after we became aware of theimpact pharmaceutical drugs were having on our water supplies and the increasing problem of

abuse. We are thrilled to work with organizations that are leading the way on this issue such as

The Product Stewardship Institute and the Prescription Pill and Drug Disposal Program and are

happy to provide final, safe, and secure disposal of the collected drugs," said John G.

Waffenschmidt, Covanta Energy Vice President, Environmental Science and Community

Affairs. "Our Energy-from-Waste facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art combustion

controls and air pollution control equipment to ensure the destruction of these drugs in an

environmentally sound manner, one that protects the water we depend upon day in and day out

and ensures that unwanted drugs are not available for abuse."

The Product Stewardship Institute has taken a national leadership position in the need for

increased product stewardship. In the case of pharmaceuticals, PSI has been leading the dialogueon best practices, including proper destruction. They have been instrumental in education efforts

to raise awareness about the issue and collaborated with Covanta on the development of the free

disposal program.

Thanks to PSI's efforts and those of countless other groups, a new federal law, signed on

October 12 by President Barack Obama, will reduce costs and create more opportunities for

collecting unused medicines from homes and long-term care facilities. The Safe and Secure Drug

Disposal Act will give communities more options for providing secure take-back programs to


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prevent drug abuse, reduce the chances of accidental poisonings, and keep pharmaceutical drugs

out of the environment.

"It's extremely important that medications are disposed of properly to curtail abuse and

the contamination of our environment," said Scott Cassel, Executive Director of the Product

Stewardship Institute. "Covanta's offer to dispose of collected pharmaceuticals free of charge

reduces costs for municipalities holding take-back programs. These collaborations are importantsteps in lowering the environmental and health risks associated with unwanted pharmaceuticals.

Thermal destruction at Energy-from-Waste facilities, hazardous waste incinerators, or medical

waste incinerators, provides for the ultimate destruction of these drugs."

"The tireless effort of people like Paul Ritter of P2D2 has raised awareness and prompted

communities to adopt proper disposal methods. Paul's commitment to getting the word out about

the right way to handle unwanted drugs is remarkable. Whenever I speak with him, I'm inspired

to do all I can in helping to get his message out," continued Waffenschmidt.

"It is an honor for the P2D2 Program to be able to work alongside so many great

communities and organizations, such as Covanta Energy, to solve one of our nation's greatest

tragedies," said Paul Ritter, founder of P2D2. "The misuse and abuse of drugs in America is at

an all time high. Water, our most precious resource, needs to be protected from possiblecontamination resulting from improper pharmaceutical disposal. If it were not for dedicated

leaders and Covanta, there would not be a viable disposal option for many communities. P2D2

is committed to help communities around the globe develop sustainable solutions and establish

disposal programs of their own."

In addition to properly managing the destruction of these unwanted drugs and protecting

our clean water supply, collected drugs are used to create electricity. Covanta's Energy-from-

Waste facilities reduce greenhouse gases and produce clean, renewable energy from municipal

solid waste.

Municipalities interested in participating in Covanta's program must obtain appropriate

regulatory approvals in order to ensure that such wastes are not classified as hazardous wastefrom a federal, state, or local perspective. Each program would be subject to a due diligence

review by Covanta Energy.

For more information, send email to: [email protected], visit the PSI

website or the P2D2 website.

17,294 Homes Without Heat, PUC Urges Customers To Call Now To Restore Service

The Public Utility Commission this week released the results of its annual Cold Weather Survey,

which showed that about 17,294 households will enter the winter season without heat-related

utility service compared to 17,037 this time last year.

"The cold weather has already settled in this year," said Commission Chairman James H.Cawley. "The recent cold temperatures coupled with the fact that almost 20,000 of our neighbors

are living without access to their central heating system means people should act now to restore

and maintain their electric and natural gas service."

The PUC encourages consumers without utility service to know theirrights and

responsibilities. Consumers should obtain information about programs available to help them

restore and maintain utility service. Consumers with a seriously ill resident in the household or a

protection from abuse order may have additional options for service restoration.
mailto:[email protected]://www.productstewardship.us/http://www.productstewardship.us/http://www.p2d2program.org/http://www.puc.state.pa.us/general/consumer_ed/pdf/Act201.pdfhttp://www.puc.state.pa.us/general/consumer_ed/pdf/Act201.pdfhttp://www.puc.state.pa.us/general/consumer_ed/pdf/Act201.pdfhttp://www.puc.state.pa.us/general/consumer_ed/pdf/Act201.pdfhttp://www.p2d2program.org/http://www.productstewardship.us/http://www.productstewardship.us/mailto:[email protected]


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Consumers should call their utility first to make arrangements to pay their bill. If they are

unable to reach an agreement with the utility, the PUC may be able to provide assistance. The

PUC can be reached toll-free at 1-800-692-7380.

In accordance with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Code, the state's electric and natural

gas distribution companies under the PUC's jurisdiction must survey residential properties where

service has been terminated in 2010 and has not been reconnected during the course of thiscalendar year. The survey assesses the number of households without heat-related service

entering the winter months.

Every December, the PUC releases those cold weather survey results. As part of the

survey, the utility or its representative must make four attempts to contact consumers who are

known to be without heat-related utility service. The attempts may include telephone calls, letters

and personal visits to the residence and are done on different days of the week and different

times of the day. If the first three contacts are unsuccessful, the PUC requests that the fourth

attempt be an in-person visit to the residence.

Homes using potentially unsafe heating sources also are counted separately because the

home is not relying on a central-heating system. According to the National Fire Protection

Association, potentially unsafe sources of heat include kerosene heaters, kitchen stoves or ovens,electric space heaters, fireplaces and connecting extension cords to neighbors' homes.

An additional 2,363 residences are using potentially unsafe heating sources, bringing the

total homes not using a central-heating system to 19,657, according to the 2010 survey. The total

number was 21,029 in 2009.

The 2010 survey results also show that as of December 15:

-- 4,353 residential households remain without electric service; 13,055 residences where service

was terminated now appear to be vacant; and 146 households are heating with potentially unsafe

heating sources. The total electric residences without safe heating are 4,499.

-- 12,941 residential households that heat with natural gas are without service; 6,268 residences

where service was terminated now appear to be vacant; and 2,217 households are heating withpotentially unsafe heating sources. The total natural gas residences without safe heating are

15,158.

-- PGW reported that 8,416 households that heat with natural gas are without service - the

highest number of all utilities. A total of 10,690 or 54 percent of the total off accounts that have

no service live in the Philadelphia area.

The charts releasedby the PUC show the number of residential properties without service

for each of the major, regulated electric and natural gas distribution companies in the

Commonwealth.

In aNovember 8 lettersent to electric and natural gas utilities under its jurisdiction, the

PUC asked utilities to join it in reaching out and educating consumers as part of the PUC's

"Prepare Now" initiative. The message is simple: "Prepare Now" for high energy costs thiswinter. Learn about changes in the law related to utility shut-offs and know your rights. Save

money by learning how to conserve energy. Heat your home safely. Explore budget billing

options. Look into programs that help low-income customers restore and maintain service.

Visit PUC's Prepare Now webpage or call the PUC at 1-800-692-7380.

Every major utility offers a Customer Assistance Program, under which qualifying low-

income customers pay discounted bills. Qualification in CAP is based on household size and

gross household income. LIURP helps consumers lower the amount of electricity or natural gas
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used each month. The company may install energy-saving features in your home to help reduce

bills.

In addition, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program may have funds available

to help eligible customers have service restored. For more information, please contact your local

County Assistance Office or contact the LIHEAP hotline at 1-866-857-7095. An informational

brochure also is available.

DEP Announces $560,000 Small Business Energy Efficiency Grants

The Department of Environmental Protection this week announced 90 small businesses across

the state will receive more than $560,000 in grants through the Small Business Advantage

Program to reduce energy use and pollution, enabling them to become more competitive.

"Small-business owners face many challenges including how to reinvest their hard-

earned dollars," said Department of Environmental Protection Secretary John Hanger. "In recent

years, a growing number of small-business owners have realized that investing in projects that

reduce pollution and energy use produce immediate and long-term positive results. Owners can

improve their bottom lines, allowing them to make significant investments in their own futures,and the economic and environmental future of Pennsylvania, as well."

Pennsylvania's Small Business Advantage program provides small businesses (those with

fewer than 100 employees) with 50-percent matching reimbursement grants of up to $7,500 to

implement projects that will save at least 20 percent annually in pollution prevention or energy-

related costs. Since 2004, the Small Business Advantage Grant program has invested $6.7

million in 1,220 small businesses.

Examples of eligible projects include HVAC and boiler upgrades, high-efficiency

lighting, solvent recovery and waste recycling systems, and auxiliary power units that help large

trucks reduce time spent with idling engines.

The 90 projects in 40 counties will receive a total of $564,291 and leverage an additional$1.1 million in private investments. In the first year, they will have a cumulative savings of

$521,782 in operating expenses related to reductions in energy and pollution.

The savings include: 1.3 million kilowatt-hours of electricity--enough to power 130

homes; 110,421 therms of natural gas; 28,000 gallons of propane; 26,000 gallons of kerosene

and fuel oil; and 40,741 gallons of diesel fuel.

In addition, the projects will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by nearly five million

pounds, equivalent to the total energy used by 190 homes or removing 425 passenger vehicles

from the roads.

A list of projects awarded grants is available online.

Aimco's Philadelphia Apartment Buildings Launch Green Energy Systems

Apartment Investment and Management Company has installed cogeneration (combined heat

and power) plants in three of its apartment buildings in the City of Philadelphia.

Made possible through a public-private partnership and funded by a $1 million

competitive, matching grant from the State of Pennsylvania's Green Energy Works! Program,

Chestnut Hall (3900 Chestnut St.), The Sterling Apartment Homes (1815 JFK Blvd.), and

University Square (3901 Market St.) have activated energy efficient, "green" Combined Heat and
http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/financial_assistance/10495/advantage_grant/553249http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/financial_assistance/10495/advantage_grant/553249http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/news_releases/14288http://www.aimco.com/http://www.aimco.com/http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/news_releases/14288http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/financial_assistance/10495/advantage_grant/553249http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/financial_assistance/10495/advantage_grant/553249


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Power systems to provide electricity, hot water and heat. Aimco is the first of the state's CHP

grantees to complete its projects, just in time for peak heating season.

"Aimco's innovative effort not only conserves resources and protects the environment,

but also contributes to Pennsylvania's continued goal of becoming less dependent on traditional

forms of energy production," said Gov. Rendell. "This is a wonderful example of how

government and business can work together to implement alternative strategies to meet growingenergy needs."

CHP technology simultaneously produces useable heat and electricity from one fuel

source, in this case natural gas. By using CHP technology, Aimco is increasing system

efficiencies and reducing the carbon footprints of the buildings.

"The systems we've installed in our apartment buildings will yield combined electrical

and thermal efficiencies of nearly 85 percent, as compared to 33 percent from traditional

centralized electric power stations," said Aimco Vice President of Energy Martin Sprang. "With

the state grant and support of the Department of Environmental Protection, we are able to reduce

the load on the City's power grid and cut our carbon emissions by 2,500 tons. The Philadelphia

co-generation project is but one example of more than 150 energy conservation efforts our

company is engaged in across the country. These projects are a win for everyone: they supportthe sustainability of our communities, provide benefits to residents and Aimco alike, cut costs

and reduce our carbon footprint."

"I appreciate companies like Aimco that understand the need to preserve our limited

resources by choosing green energy systems," said Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia). "I

encourage all building owners in our region to explore innovative, responsible methods to

generate power and help solve our energy problem."

Aimco worked in partnership with Aegis Energy Services to complete an in-depth energy

analysis and comprehensive plan to integrate each system into the buildings' existing

infrastructures. While having installed and operated cogeneration systems in various parts of the

country, the initiative with Aimco represents Aegis' first project in Philadelphia."The new, efficient heating and electrical systems are not only environmentally

responsible, but, more importantly, cost-effective and reliable for the residents of Aimco

apartments," said City Councilwoman Jannie L. Blackwell, 3rd District. "By working together

as elected officials, businesses and citizens we have been able to implement energy solutions that

benefit us all."

PUC Releases Autumn Edition Of The Keystone Connection Report

The Public Utility Commission this week released the autumn edition of the Keystone

Connection report.

The quarterly report represents the PUC's efforts to provide beneficial information to thepublic about important developments in the electric, natural gas, transportation,

telecommunications and water markets.

The publication's format contains coverage of all utilities under the PUC's jurisdiction,

including news on consumer issues and general information on Commission happenings.

Winter eConserve Newsletter From Western Pennsylvania Conservancy Now Available
http://www.puc.state.pa.us/General/publications_reports/pdf/KC_Autumn_10.pdfhttp://www.puc.state.pa.us/General/publications_reports/pdf/KC_Autumn_10.pdf


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The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy now has available the Winter issue of its eConserve

newsletter highlighting recent projects by the Conservancy, volunteers and local partners.

Included in this issue are stories on secluded fishing and swimming spots, hidden local

history, an overview of community gardening projects, wildlife watching areas and much more.

For more information, visit the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy website.

Wildlife For Everyone Foundation Newsletter Touts Accomplishments

The December issue of the Wildlife For Everyone Foundation newsletter touts the

accomplishments of the Foundation working with its many local and statewide partners to

improve wildlife habitat.

This issue highlights: a 135 acre land donation in State College, participation in the

Seedlings for Schools Program, stream restoration projects in Centre County, an update on the

Capital Campaign for the Wildlife Education and Research Center, recent additions to State

Game Lands 93 near the Flight 93 memorial in Somerset County and other upcoming events.

For more information, visit the Wildlife for Everyone Foundation website.

Audubon PA November Newsletter Now Available

TheNovember newsletterof Audubon Pennsylvania features a story on an after-school program

called the Green Club where students are creating a habitat garden on school grounds.

The newsletter also provides an update on the Waggoner's Gap Hawkwatch, birdbanding

programs, a profile of the Lake Ontelaunee Important Bird Area and much more.

Click here for more information.

PA Camo Coalition To Provide Service For Hunters, Anglers, Outdoor Enthusiasts

Citizens for Pennsylvanias Future recently unveiled a new initiative, the Pennsylvania Camo

Coalition, along with a related website.

The initiative and website will be used to provide free education and advocacy

opportunities on state policies that affect wildlife, habitat, and sporting enthusiasts concerns.

Pennsylvanias sportsmen and women were the original conservationists, said Jan

Jarrett, president and CEO of PennFuture. Our hunters, anglers and trappers have been, and

continue to be, some of the state's most committed and effective conservation leaders. We all

need to work together, with a collective voice, to protect and defend our natural resources and

the traditions we respect and appreciate.

We are at a historic fork in the road for our forests, our rivers and streams said Jarrett.

With the discovery and development of the Marcellus Shale gas formation, choices will have tobe made and a balance will have to be reached. Hunters, anglers, trappers need to speak up to

make sure their favorite hunting spots and trout streams arent ruined by careless drilling and

inadequate regulations. By creating the Camo Coalition, we hope to balance the needs of

sportsmen and our conservation ethic with that of the economic opportunities drilling will bring.

The primary objectives of the Pennsylvania Camo Coalition are to facilitate statewide

advocacy for the protection of Pennsylvania's wildlife and the associated habitats, promote
http://waterlandlife.org/e-conserve/winter_10/index.phphttp://waterlandlife.org/http://www.wildlifeforeveryone.org/news/pressRelease/newsletter_vol_10.phphttp://www.wildlifeforeveryone.org/http://pa.audubon.org/PDFs/NovDec_enewsletter.pdfhttp://pa.audubon.org/http://www.pacamocoalition.org/http://www.pacamocoalition.org/http://pa.audubon.org/http://pa.audubon.org/PDFs/NovDec_enewsletter.pdfhttp://www.wildlifeforeveryone.org/http://www.wildlifeforeveryone.org/news/pressRelease/newsletter_vol_10.phphttp://waterlandlife.org/http://waterlandlife.org/e-conserve/winter_10/index.php


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Pennsylvanias outdoor heritage, and to defend the right to hunt, fish, trap, and enjoy the lands

and waters of the state.

Membership in the coalition is FREE for all sportsmen and women. The website serves

as a portal where all can learn of different legislative and regulatory proposals in front of the

legislature and regulatory agencies. It will also serve as an advocacy tool, allowing hunters and

anglers easy access to communicate with their legislators.Seven other states have camo coalitions, all of which are initiatives of statewide affiliates

of the National Wildlife Federation . PennFuture is Pennsylvanias NWF statewide affiliate. The

coalition is coordinated by Ed Boito of PennFuture. He may be reached at 717-214-7928 or send

email to:[email protected].

Opportunity To Bid On DEP Reclamation Projects In Centre, Jefferson, Washington

Counties

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice of the opportunity to bid on a

mine reclamation project in Centre County, a mine reclamation project inJefferson County and a

reclamation project in Washington County.

Opinion

Protecting Our Environment Should Concern Us Allby Sen. Richard Alloway II

Since taking office as State Senator two years ago, I have been faced with

many tough issues. Clearly my philosophy has been to take a conservative

approach through supporting cutting spending, sponsoring the Castle

Doctrine, enacting tougher poaching laws and reducing government waste.With that said, I am also a hunter, fisherman and avid outdoor

person. I am fortunate to chair the Game and Fisheries Committee in the

State Senate. In that capacity, too often I have seen issues that arise that

seek to protect our environment categorized as "liberal" or "Democratic"

issues, which is unfortunate.

Republicans, conservatives, can and do support protecting our environment, and they

should. If at the end of the day, we do not leave this world a better place for future generations,

then shame on us. Pennsylvania is home to more stream miles than any state in the nation except

Alaska. Our parks, state forest and game lands are exceptional and offer outdoor opportunities

for people of all ages. Hunting and fishing are just two of the many activities that can occur in

these areas. There is also abundant swimming, hiking, kayaking, boating, bird watching and a

variety of other activities that can and do occur.

It only makes sense to support and sustain these amenities that we have outdoors. It

makes sense from a quality of life standpoint. It makes Pennsylvania an attractive place to work,

live and visit, and fundamentally it is the right thing to do.
mailto:[email protected]://www.pabulletin.com/secure/data/vol40/40-51/2411.htmlhttp://www.pabulletin.com/secure/data/vol40/40-51/2412.htmlhttp://www.pabulletin.com/secure/data/vol40/40-51/2413.htmlhttp://www.pabulletin.com/secure/data/vol40/40-51/2413.htmlhttp://www.pabulletin.com/secure/data/vol40/40-51/2412.htmlhttp://www.pabulletin.com/secure/data/vol40/40-51/2411.htmlmailto:[email protected]


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Two of our greatest presidents, Ronald Reagan and Teddy Roosevelt, were both

conservative and in tune with environmental concerns. These "ideals" do not need to be

mutually exclusive, nor should they be. Republicans can be pro business and pro environment.

I have been advocating for some time that we should impose a reasonable tax on the

companies that are now profiting from the huge Marcellus shale resources that exist in

Pennsylvania. Further, these funds should go to support restoration of the areas being affected,as well as to our environmental agencies such as the Fish and Boat Commission and the Game

Commission for further protection and enhancement of our natural resources. I also support

directing some of the funds to the Conservation Districts, land conservation programs and

Pennsylvania's Clean and Green fund. I remain optimistic that we can develop legislation in the

near future that will accomplish these goals.

In conclusion, our environment should not be strictly a Democrat, Republican, liberal or

conservative issue. It is everyone's issue. Little of what we do will matter if we can't live in a

world where our water is clean and our air is free from pollutants that harm us. It is not only

possible to be conservative, pro business and concerned for our environment, it is the right thing

to do.

Sen. Alloway represents Adams, Franklin and York counties and can be contacted through his

website.

Grants & Awards

This section gives you a heads up on upcoming deadlines for awards and grants and other

recognition programs. NEW means new from last week.

December 28--NEW. USDA Conservation Innovation Grants

December 30-- PA Parks & Forest Foundation 2011 AwardsDecember 31-- EPA Green Chemistry Awards

December 31-- Fish & Boat Commission 2010 Photo Contest

December 31-- PPL Small Business Energy Audits

ASAP--NRCS Health Forest Reserve Program Grants

January 3-- Vote For Pennsylvania River Of The Year

January 7--NEW.NRCS Conservation Stewardship Grants

January 7-- PA Conservation Corps Grants

January 7-- PALTA Land Trust Conservation Leadership Award

February 11--NEW. PA American Water Stream Of Learning College Scholarships

February 15-- PennVEST Water Infrastructure Funding

February 25-- Foundation for PA Watersheds GrantsMarch 1-- Schuylkill Action Network Schuylkill Stories Contest

March 1-- Schuylkill Action Network Drinking Water Scholastic Award Contest

April 20-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants

June 30-- DEP Nitrogen Tire Inflation System Grants

August 26-- Foundation for PA Watersheds Grants
http://senatoralloway.com/http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17572http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17324http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17485http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=15382http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17097http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=15858http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17468http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17573http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=16978http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17521http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17574http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=15989http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17419http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17248http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17248http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17256http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=16126http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17419http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17419http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=16126http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17256http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17248http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17248http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17419http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=15989http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17574http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17521http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=16978http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17573http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17468http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=15858http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17097http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=15382http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17485http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17324http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17572http://senatoralloway.com/


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Other Funding Programs

-- DEP PA Sunshine Solar Energy Rebates

-- CFA High Performance Building Financing (Program Link)

-- CFA Solar Energy Financing (Program Link)

-- CFA Geothermal, Wind Energy Projects (Program Link)

-- Visit the DEP Grants and Loan Programs webpage for more ideas on how to get financial

assistance for environmental projects.

Quick Clips

Here's a selection of NewClips on environmental topics from around the state--

Editorial: Next DEP Secretary Must Be Committed To Environment

PA Society Bash In NYC Bigger This Year

Politicians Celebrate At Annual New York Event

PA Society: A Must-Attend For Power Brokers

Budget

PA Reven

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