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 December 6, 2010

Gov.-Elect Corbett Names Agency Transition Teams

Gov-elect Tom Corbett this week announced more than 400 members of
his transition team. The transition team is made up of 17 different
committees, each examining a specific area of state government.
The members of each of committee, who are volunteering their
time, are tasked with reviewing the operations of the state government
departments and agencies under the governor’s jurisdiction and will
prepare a transition report for Gov.-elect Corbett.
“I’m honored that so many men and women have agreed to
participate in my transition team,” said Corbett. “The work they are doing
is essential as we build a new administration and prepare to lead
Pennsylvania.”
Energy & Environment Committee
The Energy and Environment Team is responsible for developing transition reports for
the departments of Conservation and Natural Resources and Environmental Protection. It will
also interact with related agencies such as Agriculture, the Public Utility Commission and the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Chair – David Kleppinger of McNees, Wallace & Nurick
Richard Allan, Principal, RJ Allan Consulting; Scott Baker, Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC;
Cynthia Carrow, VP, Government & Community Relations, Western PA Conservancy;
Rosemary Chiavetta of the Public Utility Commission; Thomas Chiomento, Director of
Government at Exelon Generation; Brian Clark, Shareholder, Buchanan, Ingersoll & Rooney PC;
Nick DeBenedictis, Chairman, Aqua America; George Ellis, President, PA Coal Association;
Ellen Ferretti, VP, PA Environmental Council Josh First, President, Appalachian Land &
Conservation Services Co., LLC; John Giordano, Chief Legal, Philadelphia Works; Pete
Gleason, Partner, K&L Gates; Grant Gulibon, Regional Specialist, PA Builders Association;
David Hess, Former Secretary, Department of Environmental Protection; John Hohenwarter,
National Rifle Association; Charlie Kirkwood, President, Shawnee Insurance; Mike Krancer;
John Oliver, Oliver Brothers; Stan Rapp, Senior Partner, Greenlee Partners; John Rich, Ultra
Clean Fuels; Todd Rucci; Hasu Shah; John Skoutelas, VP of Governmental Affairs, Waste
Management; Pat Solano; Glen Thomas, GT Power Group; Eric Thumma, Director of
Institutional Relations, Iberdrola Renewables; Don Welsh, Former President, Pennsylvania
Environmental Council; Pam Witmer, Energy & Environmental Practice Lead, Bravo Group;
and PA State Senator Mary Jo White.
Agriculture
Chair – Keith Eckel
Jim Adams, President & CEO of Wenger Feeds; Gary Althouse, Chairman of the Department of
Clinical Studies of New Bolton Vet Center at Penn; John Barley, CEO of Versant Strategies;
Lynda Bowman, Comptroller, Tom Corbett for Governor; Jim Brubaker, Partner, Buffalo Valley
Farms; PA State Senator Mike Brubaker; Rich Conti, Chairman of PA Forest Products
Association; Erick Coolidge, Chairman of US Farm Service Agency; Mike Firestine, Senior VP
of Fulton Bank; Dennis Grumbine, CEO of Lebanon Valley Exposition Corporation; Boots
Heatherington, Owner of B&R Farms; Chris Herr, EVP of Penn Ag Industries Association;
Gordon Hoover, Director of Eastern Milk Supply, Land O Lakes; David Jaindl, Owner of Jaindl
Farms; Ron Kreider, President of Kreider Farms; Ed Leo, Mushroom Farmer; Anton Leppler,
President & CEO of A.J. Leppler Strategies; PA State Rep. John Maher; Dr. Bill Newman, Head
of the Radiology Department of Bedford Hospital (Retired); Alan Novak, President of Novak
Strategies; John Pierce, VP of Sales, Lehigh Valley Dairy Farms; John Reininger, Chief
Relationship Officer, The Clemens Family Corporation; Carl Shaffer, President of the
Pennsylvania Farm Bureau; Jim Simpson, Co-owner of Hanover Shoe Farms; Paula Vitz, Senior
Associate, Capital Associates; Kyler Walker; PA State Senator Noah Wenger.
Transportation
Co-Chair – Vahan Gureghian, CEO of Charter School Management, Inc.
Co-Chair – Brad Mallory, CEO of Michael Baker Corporation
Co-Chair – Pete Tartline
Tony Bartolomeo, President & CEO of Pennoni Associates; Brenda Bratina, Director of Toll
Revenue Audit, Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission; Tom Caramanico, President of McCormick
Taylor, Inc.; Randy Cheetham, Regional VP of CSX; Mark Compton, Director of Government
Affairs, American Infrastructure; Charles Courtney, McNees, Wallace & Nurick; Walter
D’Alessio, Northmarq Capital; Pasquale T. Deon, Sr., Chairman of SEPTA, Turnpike
Commissioner; Paul Detwiler, New Enterprise Stone & Lime; Douglas Dick; John Durbin,
President, Durbin Associates; Tom Ellis, Special Counsel, Duane Morris; Liz Ferry, Manager,
Policy Development, Select Greater Philadelphia; Mike Fesen, Resident VP Public Affairs,
Norfolk Southern Corporation; Annette Ganassi, VP of Walmar Enterprises; Steve Haddad,
President & CEO of Bieber Transportation Group; Kevin Johnson, President of Traffic Planning
and Design; Bob Kinsley, President of Kinsley Construction; Ted Leonard, Executive Director of
Pennsylvania AAA; Ross Myers, President of American Infrastructure; Jim Roddey, Principal,
McCrory & McDowell, LLC; Bob Shuster; Mark Stine, VP of Legislative Affairs, PA
Automotive Association; Jeff Zell, CEO of Jeff Zell Consultants.
A complete list of all teams is available online.
NewsClips: Corbett Names Huge Cast To Transition Panels
Corbett: Transition Team Provides Fresh Set Of Eyes On Government
Corbett Names Transition Team
Corbett Meets With Transition Team
Corbett Names Members Of Transition Team
 Cunningham Lends Corbett A Hand On Transition Team
Corbett Transition Team Member Irks Dems
Corbett Panel Includes Marcellus Lobbyists
John Baer: A Soft, Uncertain Start To Corbett Transition

Environment-Related Bills Signed Into Law In 2010

The following is a list of environment-related bills signed into law in 2010--

Neighborhoods: House Bill 1609 (Freeman-D-Lehigh) amending the Municipalities Planning

Code further defining traditional neighborhood development was signed into law as Act 111.

Alternative Energy On Farms: House Bill 1394 (Houghton-D-Chester) relating to splitting off
farm and forest land under preferential assessment for alternative energy production was signed
into law as Act 109.

Electronics Recycling: House Bill 708 (Ross-R-Chester) requiring recycling of certain

electronic products funded by industry fees was signed into law as Act 108.

Local Government Merger: Senate Bill 1429 (Eichelberger-R-Blair) further providing for the
merger and consolidations of local governments was signed into law as Act 102.

Blight: Senate Bill 900 (Argall-R-Schuylkill) establishing the Neighborhood Blight Reclamation
and Revitalization Act was signed into law as Act 90.

Energy Production On Farmland: Senate Bill 298 (Yaw-R-Bradford) amends the Farmland
and Forest Land Assessment Act to allow the splitting off of preserved farm and forest lands
used for alternative energy systems and natural gas and coal bed methane was signed into law as
Act 88.

Borough Electric Purchases: Senate Bill 168 (Brubaker-R-Lancaster) further authorizing

electric purchases by boroughs was signed into law as Act 87.

Capital Budget: House Bill 2291 (D.Evans-D-Philadelphia) 2010-2011 Capital Budget projects
bill was signed into law as Act 82.

RCAP Capital Budget Debt: House Bill 2290 (D.Evans-D-Philadelphia) and House Bill
2289 (D.Evans) increasing the Capital Budget debt ceiling by $600 million was signed into law
as Act 48 and Act 47 respectively.

Fiscal Code: Senate Bill 1042 (Browne-R-Lehigh) the Fiscal Code bill was amended Friday by
the House Appropriations Committee with the agreed to language by the Senate, House and Gov.
Rendell and includes provisions increasing the Education Improvement Tax Credit; provides for
transfers from Tobacco Settlement, State System of Higher Education deferred maintenance
monies and other special funds; establishes the DCNR Heritage Areas Program in law; provides
for environmental, planning and other permit extensions for development upon application for a
period of one year if the permits were issued between December 31, 2008 and before July 2,
2013 (formerly Senate Bill 569 (Pileggi-R-Delaware) and House Bill 1056 (M.O'Brien-D-
Philadelphia) and any requirements that have changed since the original permit was issued will
not have an impact on whether an extension is granted; and language outlining the intend of the
General Assembly to adopt a Marcellus Shale natural gas production tax and an Independent
Fiscal Office by October 1, effective January 1. It was signed into law as Act 46.

Guaranteed Energy Savings: House Bill 687 (Dermody-D-Allegheny) expanding guaranteed

energy savings contracts to include technologies to reduce water and wastewater consumption
was signed into law as Act 39.

Geologists: House Bill 975 (Adolph-R-Delaware) further providing for continuing education for
professional geologists was signed into law as Act 25.

Recycling Fee: House Bill 961 (Buxton-D-Dauphin) extending the $2/ton Recycling Fee
through 2020 and requiring the transfer of $1.25 million annually through the FY 2012-13 to a
new Used Tire Pile Remediation Program was signed it into law as Act 24.

Well Production: Senate Bill 297 (Yaw-R-Bradford) providing for semi-annual reporting of oil
and gas well production was signed into law as Act 16.

Coal Refuse Piles: House Bill 1847 (Harhai-D-Westmoreland) establishing a special review
board to arbitrate coal bed methane well-location disputes between landowners and gas
companies was signed into law as Act 4.

Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule

The Senate and House are adjourned until January 4. All legislation must be reintroduced and
start over next year.

Session Schedule

The House released their early 2011 scheduled this week--

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)

House (New)
January 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 Committee meetings are scheduled.

News From The Capitol

Auditor General, Treasurer Issue Warnings On Rendell's New $1 Billion Bond Issue

Auditor General Jack Wagner said he would not give his approval for a $1
billion General Obligation bond Gov. Rendell wants to float to finance
Capital Budget projects.
In a related action, State Treasurer Rob McCord (photo) warned
Gov.-Elect Tom Corbett the Rendell Administration is proposing to issue a
$1 billion General Obligation bond to fund projects they approved as part
of the Capital Budget process.
In a letter to Gov.-Elect Corbett, Treasurer McCord said--
"The Rendell Administration has proposed issuing $1 billion in
General Obligation debt during this transition time in state government. The proposed debt is to
fund ongoing public improvement projects already approved by the Administration. This would
be a substantial bond issue. There are potential advantages to issuing debt at this time. And there
is also a need for some new debt -- assuming the Corbett Administration intends to continue
funding the public-improvement projects already initiated, contracted, and approved.
"The Capital Facilities Fund has a current balance of approximately $307 million. This
amount is sufficient to finance the existing pipeline of projects through approximately February
1. If no additional debt is issued, the ongoing pipeline of projects would begin to be adversely
affected at that time.
"This matter arises, not just as you prepare to take office, but also as the Commonwealth
faces a structural General Fund budget deficit of perhaps $4 billion or more. The proposed debt
would make that challenge steeper still. It would require, for the next twenty years, an additional
$82 million in debt-service payments out of the General Fund.
"While it is not unusual for outgoing Administrations to issue debt, it also is true that this
proposed $1 billion issuance is substantially larger than its predecessors. The largest prior
"lame-duck" issuance was in late 2002, when former Governor Schweiker approved the issuance
of $500 million in GO debt, prior to Governor Rendell taking office.
"I ask that you review this matter promptly, as I stand ready to weigh the input of your
Administration substantially in my own deliberations. I regard transitions to be delicate times in
governance -- times when elected Constitutional officers such as myself have a special obligation
to be respectful both to the ongoing needs of government and to the preferences and priorities of
the incoming Administration. This is especially so during a time of financial crisis."
In a letter to Gov. Rendell, General Wagner said--
"First, both our state and federal government are drawing in debt. The Commonwealth's
debt has increased from $6.1 billion as of June 30, 2002 to $84 billion as of November 18, 2010.
This is a 39 percent increase in debt. The proposed bond issue would increase our current debt
load by another 12 percent to over $9 billion, which, at this time, is too much to put on the backs
of our children and grandchildren.
"Second, paying for this debt is being increasing expensive. Next year alone, debt
service will consume over $1 billion of state revenues. Borrowing another billion dollars will
add at least another $82 million in annual debt payments for the next 20 years. Money devoted
to paying off debt is money that is not spent to provide programs and services to seniors,
children, families or veterans, those who government must put first in times of deep economic
distress like today.
"Third, the next Governor and General Assembly will already face an increasingly
challenging fiscal crisis when they take their oaths of office in 2011. The budget gap will be
approximately $4-5 billion next year, with similar elevated levels into the future depending on
how the gap is addressed. Obligating another billion dollars to debt now would severely
constrain the options of the new administration and legislature less than two months from now
and for years to come. In addition, the unemployment rate is higher now than it has been in the
previous ten years, causing a tremendous strain on the state's finances.
"Finally, as your administration draws to a close, it would appear inappropriate to impose
such a major constraint on the operations of your successor. As we discussed, there are at least
$300 million in proceeds from previous bond issuances still available to support projects whose
funding is truly essential during this transition period. Those proceeds and project priorities
must be scrutinized so that we can act in a fiscally responsible, accountable and transparent
manner."
NewsClips: Wagner Tells Rendell He Won't Sign Off On $1 Billion Bond
$1 Billion Capital Bond Snags On Final OK
State Bond Sale Dispute Threatens Projects
$1 Billion Bond Issue Draws Objections
Rendell's Billion Dollar Bond Request Shot Down
Wagner, McCord Fight Rendell On Borrowing
Impasse Over $1 Billion State Bond May Affect Lehigh Valley
Editorial: One Last Billion For The Road
Editorial: AG, Treasurer- Approve State Bond

State Revenues Slightly Below Estimates For Year

The Department of Revenue reported fiscal year-to-date General Fund collections total $9.2
billion, which is $14 million, or 0.2 percent above estimates. The state collected $1.6 billion in
General Fund revenue in November, which was $4.5 million, or 0.3 percent, below estimates.
 Sales tax receipts totaled $661.2 million for November, $26.8 million above estimate.
Year-to-date sales tax collections total $3.5 billion, which is $71.3 million, or 2.1 percent, more
than anticipated.
Personal income tax revenue in November was $657 million, $22.4 million below
estimate. This brings year-to-date PIT collections to $3.6 billion, which is $77.6 million, or 2.1
percent, below estimate.
November corporation tax revenue of $48.3 million was $6.6 million below estimate.
Year-to-date corporation tax collections total $769.1 million, which is $55.8 million, or 7.8
percent, above estimate.
Other General Fund revenue for the month included $65.6 million in inheritance tax, $3.8
million above estimate, bringing the year-to-date total to $313.7 million, which is $100,000
above estimate.
Realty transfer tax revenue was $20.6 million for November, $4.7 million below
estimate, bringing the fiscal-year total to $123.4 million, which is $32.9 million less than
anticipated.
Other General Fund tax revenue, including cigarette, malt beverage, liquor and table
games taxes totaled $120.3 million for the month, $4.3 million below estimate and bringing the
year-to-date total to $612.5 million, which is $3.1 million above estimate.
Non-tax revenue for the month totaled $18.7 million, $2.9 million above estimate,
bringing the year-to-date total to $276.7 million, which is $5.7 million below estimate.
In addition to the General Fund collections, the Motor License Fund received $169
million for the month, $10.3 million above estimate. Fiscal year-to-date collections for the fund
total $1 billion, which is $43.4 million, or 4.5 percent, above estimate.

News From Around The State

CBF Applauds Changes In DEP Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Plan, But Job Isn't Finished

Matthew Ehrhart, Chesapeake Bay Foundation PA Executive

Director, released the following statement regarding the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania’s final Watershed Implementation
Plan submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency on
November 29.
“The Chesapeake Bay Foundation has completed a
preliminary review of Pennsylvania’s plan and we are encouraged
by the new commitments outlined in the final Plan. We acknowledge that the Commonwealth
has made many changes to the initial draft WIP, and we applaud the state’s open process that
involved many stakeholders. But the Commonwealth has not completed the job, yet.
“As CBF urged, the Commonwealth has made significant improvements towards
ensuring compliance with existing laws for, and resulting reductions from, the largest source of
pollution loads – agriculture.
“While Pennsylvania has some of the best agricultural laws in the region, enforcement
and compliance with those laws has been severely lacking. It’s estimated that over half of
Pennsylvania farms do not have current conservation and/or manure management plans that are
fully implemented. The state is now proposing an aggressive education and enforcement
program to change that, with the expectation of having all 40,000 of the estimated farms in the
watershed in baseline compliance in 7 years.
“However, the plan must contain measures to ensure that the additional required nutrient
reductions for agriculture are achieved. For example:
"While Pennsylvania recently established a very successful nonpoint source funding
initiative through PennVEST, the WIP must provide a clear commitment to continue and expand
this crucial program at a sufficient level of funding.
"While we applaud Secretary Hanger’s intention to establishing a Baywide fund to
support innovative agricultural pollution reduction technologies, the WIP must commit
Pennsylvania to funding the program regardless of other jurisdictions’ support.
"We firmly believe that both the REAP tax credit program and the conservation districts
must be funded at $10 million each, along with other program enhancements, in order to achieve
necessary reductions.
“Unfortunately, while the revised plan reflects progress for reducing polluted runoff from
Pennsylvania farms, it is substantially deficient in addressing stormwater pollution.
“Despite the plans positive proposals to address stormwater pollution, such as an
intention to increase technical staff, legislation aimed at limiting pollution from lawn fertilizers,
and a commitment to develop a “compliance and enforcement” strategy, it continues to lack
fundamental details on how these and other stormwater commitments will be achieved.
“Polluted runoff from our cities and suburbs degrades over 4,200 miles of
Commonwealth streams and remains the only source of water pollution in Pennsylvania that is
increasing. Stormwater pollution must be aggressively addressed if we are to meet our clean
water requirements.
“CBF applauds the extensive effort by the Commonwealth to improve the Plan.
Substantial improvements over the previous draft have been made but many shortcomings
remain. We urge the state to work with EPA and stakeholders over the next few weeks to address
these shortcomings to ultimately ensure that the WIP achieves reasonable assurance that
Pennsylvania can achieve pollution reductions under the Chesapeake Bay TMDL. If the
Commonwealth fails to do so, then EPA will have no alternative but to exercise its statutory
responsibility under the Clean Water Act and require additional actions be taken.”
Click here for more comments from CBF on the Pennsylvania Plan. The DEP
Chesapeake Bay Watershed Implementation Plan will be available online.
NewsClips: EPA Plans To Take A Month To Evaluate Chesapeake Bay Plans
New York Misses EPA Deadline For Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Plan

Related Story
Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Would Create Thousands Of Jobs

Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Would Create Thousands Of Jobs

A new report from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation examines the broad economic benefits of
clean water in Pennsylvania and across the watershed and found that investing in clean water
technologies creates jobs, generates economic activity and saves money in the long run.
 For example, according to the Fish and Boat Commission, nearly 2 million people go
fishing in Pennsylvania each year, contributing over $ 1.6 billion to the economy. Among the
most popular species for anglers are smallmouth bass and coldwater species, such as brook
trout.
Unfortunately due to the decline of the smallmouth bass population as a result of water
quality problems, the PFBC recently passed a proposal that will mandate the catch-and-release of
smallmouth bass in certain areas of the Susquehanna River.
In addition, degraded stream habitat has restricted brook trout to a mere fraction of its
historical distribution.
“Studies show that people equate things like clean water, clean air, and open spaces with
a healthy community, and thus a robust economy,” said CBF‟s Pennsylvania Executive Director
Matt Ehrhart. "Threats to water quality, in particular, threaten our economy because people
value clean water for drinking, recreation, tourism, and other uses.”
Other nature-based recreation, like wildlife watching and ecotourism, also make major
contributions to local economies. In Pennsylvania, a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service report says
that more than 3.6 million people engaged in wildlife-watching activities, and spent $1.4 billion
on trip-related expenses and equipment in 2006.
Clean waterways also increase property values. A U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
study indicated that clean water can increase the value of single family homes up to 4,000 feet
from the water's edge by up to 25 percent.
Proactive efforts to lessen stormwater flows today reduce future public costs needed to
maintain navigation channels, remediate pollution and hazard flooding, and repair infrastructure
and property damage caused by excessive runoff.
Philadelphia estimates that over the course of installation, their green infrastructure will
create more than $2 in benefits for every dollar invested, generating $500 million in economic
benefits, $1.3 billion in social benefits, and $400 million in environmental benefits.
A recent study by the University of Virginia found that implementation of agricultural
practices such as livestock stream exclusion, buffers, and cover crops would generate significant
economic impacts.
Every $1 of state and/or federal funding invested in agricultural best management
practices would generate $1.56 in economic activity in Virginia. Implementing agricultural
practices in Virginia to the levels necessary to restore the Bay would create nearly 12,000 jobs of
approximately one year’s duration.
A recent analysis of the value of investing in water and sewer infrastructure concluded
that these investments typically yield greater returns than most other types of public
infrastructure.
For example, $1 of water and sewer infra- structure investment increases private output
(Gross Domestic Product) in the long-term by $6.35. Furthermore, adding a job in water and
sewer creates 3.68 jobs to support that one.
“We could save significantly by taking steps to protect our clean water resources. For
every $1 that we spend on pollution reduction efforts, we save $27 in drinking water treatment
costs. That‟s money our communities could be using to rebuild local economies,” Ehrhart said.
A copy of the complete report is available online.
 NewsClip: Report: Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Would Spur Economy

Related Story
CBF Applauds Changes DEP Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Plan, But Job Isn't Finished

Vote Now For Pennsylvania River Of The Year

Cast a vote for Pennsylvania’s River of the Year from six finalists
– Clarion River, Conewango Creek, Delaware River, Kiskiminetas
River, Pine Creek, and the Stonycreek River. Voting ends January
3.
Pennsylvania’s River of the Year is an honor bestowed
upon a Commonwealth river to elevate public awareness about that
resource and recognize important conservation needs and
achievements.
The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the PA Organization for
Watersheds and Rivers administer the River of the Year program, but local organizations submit
nominations and, if selected, implement a year round slate of activities and events to celebrate
the river, including a special extended paddling trip known as a Sojourn.
Invite all your friends and colleagues to vote, post to your Facebook page, email or Tweet
to get the word out. Once votes are tallied, DCNR announce the river of the year in January
2011!
Click here to vote. For more information, visit the DCNR Pennsylvania Rivers webpage.
NewsClip: Initiative Hopes Votes Flow To Honor The Stonycreek

DCNR Approves Five Watershed Conservation Plans, Adds To Rivers Registry

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources this week published notice it has
approved five Watershed Conservation Plans. They include--
-- Beaver River Watershed in Beaver and Lawrence counties;
-- Conewago Creek Watershed in Adams, Cumberland and York counties;
-- Lake Erie Watershed in Erie and Crawford counties;
-- Sugar and Towanda Creeks Watersheds in Bradford and Tioga counties; and
-- Upper Tohickon Creek Watershed in Bucks County.
Each of the watersheds will now be placed on the Pennsylvania Rivers Conservation
Registry.

2011 Port Of Pittsburgh Ohio River Watershed Celebration September 22

September 22 is the date of the 2011 Port of Pittsburgh Ohio River Watershed Celebration, the
largest gathering of individuals, groups, local governments and businesses concerned about
restoring watersheds in Western Pennsylvania.
Click here to check out photos from the 2010 Celebration. You can follow activities
related to the Celebration on Facebook too. Read a summary of the awards and activities from
the 2010 Celebration.
Spotllight

Penn State: Publication Addresses Water Withdrawals For Marcellus Gas Drilling

Penn State Cooperative Extension has released an updated version

of a publication that addresses the rapidly changing topic of water
withdrawals for Marcellus Shale gas drilling.
Originally published in September 2009, "Water
Withdrawals for Development of Marcellus Shale Gas in
Pennsylvania" reflects the latest Marcellus-related regulatory
changes enacted by the Susquehanna River Basin Commission, the
Delaware River Basin Commission and the Department of Environmental Protection.
Water is a critical component in the process of extracting natural gas from the Marcellus
Shale formation. Public policies for managing and protecting water resources are common
concerns of Pennsylvania residents, according to a water-policy expert in Penn State's College of
Agricultural Sciences.
"Development of the Marcellus Shale could have major economic and environmental
effects for Pennsylvanians and residents of neighboring states," said Charles Abdalla, professor
of agricultural and environmental economics. "Individuals, businesses and communities will be
affected well into the future as this energy resource is fully developed.
"Citizens need to become aware of their stake in water-resource issues and policies and
effectively participate in public policy-making," he said. "Public policies for water management
and protection will be improved if the affected parties -- which include almost everyone -- are
well-informed about likely impacts and take advantage of opportunities to participate in
decisions."
Seeking to engage residents, landowners, federal and state agency personnel,
environmental organizations, economic development groups and others, the publication
discusses the fast-evolving issues and public policies related to water resources and Marcellus
Shale gas exploration.
While adequate supplies of water are one of several essential inputs needed to extract gas
from the shale, wastewater is an output from the process that must be treated or disposed of
properly.
"Through this publication, we hope to increase the public's understanding of water use
and management related to Marcellus Shale gas development and help people understand how
and where they can offer input into public decisions about water use and wastewater treatment,"
said Abdalla, the publication's lead author.
"Now is the time for people to learn about and help shape public policies that will guide
development of the Marcellus Shale," he said. "These policies will play a large part in
determining the economic well-being and quality of life for residents of the commonwealth for a
long time -- perhaps generations -- to come."
Funding for the updated publication comes from the Pennsylvania Water Resources
Research Center at Penn State. To obtain a free copy, contact the Penn State College of
Agricultural Sciences Publication Distribution Center, The Pennsylvania State University, 112
Agricultural Administration Building, University Park, PA 16802-2602; telephone:
814-865-6713; fax: 814-863-5560; or send email to: AgPubsDist@psu.edu.
This publication also is available online in PDF format.
The publication is the latest in a series initiated by Penn State's College of Agricultural
Sciences and Penn State Cooperative Extension to address issues related to Marcellus Shale gas
exploration and development. Other publications in the series, along with related webinars,
presentations and events, can be viewed at Cooperative Extension's Natural Gas website.
NewsClip: Penn State Publication Focuses On Water Withdrawal for Gas Drilling

Keystone Wild! Notes Looks At Science Behind Marcellus Shale Development

The latest issue of Keystone Wild! Notes by the Wild Resource Conservation Program, features
a discussion of the science behind the development Marcellus Shale natural gas.
Wild Notes also features articles on a forgotten reptile sanctuary, the impact of climate
change, balancing energy development with resource protection, harnessing wind energy while
protecting wildlife and much more.
Click here to download your copy.

Chester Conservation District Breakfast Highlights Economic Benefits Of Conservation

Key regional legislators recently attended the Chester County Conservation District legislative
breakfast to receive updates on Conservation District activities and accomplishments including
projects implemented as a result of federal, state, and private grants totaling $2.1 million that
were awarded to the CCCD.
Legislators attending included Sen. Dominic Pileggi, Rep. Chris Ross, and
Representatives-Elect Warren Kampf and Dan Truitt. Also in attendance were congressional
aides from the offices of US Senator Robert P. Casey, Jr., US Congressional Representatives
James Gerlach and Joseph Pitts, US Congressional Representative-Elect Pat Meehan, and PA
House Representative Curt Schroder.
Other attendees included Department of Agriculture Secretary Russell Reading and
representatives from the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Department of Environmental
Protection, PA Association of Conservation Districts, USDA Farm Service Agency, and Chester
County Association of Township Officials.
Chester County Commissioner and CCCD Board Member Terence Farrell thanked the
legislators for their attendance and support of the District. Christian Strohmaier, District
Manager, outlined many of the programs and projects undertaken throughout the year including
the implementation of two grants totaling $2.1 million from ARRA/PennVEST.
As a result, 90 jobs were created or sustained from the installation of water quality best
management practices in the Brandywine Christina and Octoraro, Elks and Northeast watershed.
Strohmaier also gave details of the $1m grant awarded earlier in November to the District
from PennVEST for agriculture best management practice implementation on dairy and poultry
farms in the Octoraro watershed Chesapeake Bay drainage. Other successful projects highlighted
included USDA-NRCS contracts with agricultural producers that produced revenue for the
county.
 “We were pleased to have excellent representation from our legislators at this meeting,”
said Tom Brosius, Chairman of the CCCD Board of Directors. “Protecting and improving water
and soil quality is our main focus and having the support of our elected officials is a key
component in our long-term success.” Brosius emphasized that the district staff is “extremely
effective” in utilizing grants and fees for services, but said the District needs a more constant
form of support.

Westmoreland Conservation District Offers Multiple Education Opportunities In 2011

The Westmoreland County Conservation District is offering education opportunities beginning in

January on conservation topics of interest to local governments, farmers, homeowners,
engineers, students and many others in 2011.
Click here to see a Calendar of all activities during the year.

PA American Water Works Associations Holds Security Training In 2011

The PA Section of the American Water Works Association will hold a series of training courses
next year on Securing Drinking Water and Wastewater Treatment Facilities.
The courses will be offered at several times and in several areas of the state to make them
convenient for operators.
Click here to learn more.

Agriculture Secretary Urges Christmas Tree Buyers To Support Local Growers

Buying a locally grown Christmas tree helps to keep money and jobs in your region, Agriculture
Secretary Russell C. Redding this week reminded consumers and business owners.
"Pennsylvania is a national leader in the Christmas tree industry, boasting nearly $14
million in sales each year," said Secretary Redding. "Buying real trees this holiday season from
your local grower means you will get a fresher product and your purchase supports a local
business that likely buys their supplies locally and employs the people living in your
community."
Secretary Redding will help local Christmas tree growers load trees donated to military
families at the "Trees for Troops" drive from 1 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, December 5, at
Strathmeyer's Forest retail stand at the York Fairgrounds, 334 Carlisle Ave., York.
Last year, Pennsylvania growers donated nearly 1,100 trees to the cause, and nationally
more than 16,500 trees were donated by more than 700 farms in 29 states. Most farms donate 10
to 50 trees.
For more information, visit the Trees for Troops Program website.
Pennsylvania ranks second in the nation with more than 1,200 Christmas tree farms that
grow 46 million trees on 35,000 acres. The state ranks fourth nationally in sales of cut trees with
1.2 million annually.
More than half of the Christmas trees grown and sold in Pennsylvania are Douglas and
Fraser firs. Other common varieties include Balsam, Canann and Concolor, or white, fir; Scotch
and White pine; and Norway, Colorado Blue and White spruce.
 When selecting and caring for a cut tree, the PA Christmas Tree Growers Association's
tips include:
-- Choose a green tree with needles that bend but don't break and are hard to pull off the
branches;
-- Shake or bounce the tree on its stump to make sure excessive amounts of green needles do not
fall off;
-- Make a fresh cut on the bottom, removing no more than one inch;
-- Use a tree stand that holds at least a gallon of water and keep it filled;
-- Keep trees away from heat sources like fireplaces, radiators and televisions;
-- Use indoor-rated lights only, keep cords and connections in safe working condition, and avoid
using more than three light strings per extension cord; and
-- Unplug lights before leaving or going to bed.
NewsClip: PA Douglas Fir Is White House Tree

Rendell Announces Grants For Flood Control Projects

Gov. Rendell this week stressed the importance of protecting communities and citizens from
flooding threats -- and especially since Pennsylvania is among the most flood-prone states -- as
he announced the latest round of flood protection grants for projects in 15 counties.
The Governor said this latest investment totaling $477,934 builds on the commonwealth's
commitment to improve and reinforce Pennsylvania's flood-control measures and water
infrastructure.
"We regularly see the devastating effects floods can have on our communities. When
floodwaters rise, they can destroy homes and businesses, creating incredible hardships for people
that disrupt their lives," said Gov. Rendell. "That's why it's so important that we invest our
resources to help communities protect against this threat.
"The funds we're announcing today will do just that. Whether it's purchasing new
equipment that help municipalities maintain their existing flood-protection measures, making
structural improvements, or developing the plans to make sure communities and residents are
prepared, these grants—and others we've made in the past eight years—are an important
investment in public safety."
A list of grants awarded is available online.

Centre County Household Hazardous Waste Collection Events April 29-30

The Centre County Solid Waste Authority is sponsoring Household Hazardous Waste Collection
events on April 29-30 in 2011. For more information, call 814-238-7005.

CHEMSWEEP Provides Safe Pesticide Disposal In 21 Counties In 2011

Agricultural businesses and pesticide applicators in 21 Pennsylvania counties will be able to

dispose of unwanted pesticides safely and easily in 2011 through the CHEMSWEEP program.
CHEMSWEEP is offered in different counties each year. In 2011 it will be offered in
Adams, Cameron, Clearfield, Clinton, Crawford, Erie, Fayette, Franklin, Greene, Huntingdon,
Juniata, Lehigh, Mercer, Monroe, Northampton, Perry, Pike, Potter, Schuylkill, Somerset and
Westmoreland counties.
"Pennsylvania is committed to protecting the environment and the CHEMSWEEP
program offers citizens a safe, legal way to dispose of unwanted or unusable pesticides," said
Agriculture Secretary Russell C. Redding. "Since 1993, the program has helped the state's
agriculture industry and homeowners dispose of nearly two million pounds of pesticides."
Each year, many pesticide products are discontinued or phased out, leaving growers,
commercial establishments and applicators with quantities of potentially dangerous and toxic
materials that cannot be placed in landfills. The unwanted pesticides often become a safety
hazard and an environmental concern through long-term storage in garages, barns or other areas.
Licensed pesticide applicators in agribusinesses and commercial enterprises from the
designated counties are eligible to participate by completing the CHEMSWEEP registration and
inventory form that will be direct-mailed. The registration period ends March 31.
An independent contractor hired by the Department of Agriculture will collect and
package all waste pesticides primarily for incineration at facilities approved by the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency. CHEMSWEEP will cover the disposal cost for the first 2,000
pounds per participant. Above that level, participants will be billed at the department's contracted
price.
The program is funded through annual registration fees paid by pesticide manufacturers
and applicators.
Homeowners can use CHEMSWEEP by participating in county or municipal Household
Hazardous Waste, or HHW, collection events in counties where the agriculture department and
the disposal contractor is partnered with the state Department of Environmental Protection.
For more information about the Household Hazardous Waste collection program, call
1-800-346-4242 or visit the DEP Household Hazardous Waste webpage.

December Issue Of Environmental Ed Connections Now Available From PCEE

The December Environmental Connections newsletter is now available from the PA Center for
Environmental Education. Here are just some of topics covered in the newsletter--

General News: Elk Country Visitor Center Unveils New Website, Center for Sustainable
Landscapes to Open at Phipps, Online Environmental Education Journal Publishes First Issue

K-12 News: PA CleanWays and KPB Merge, Litter Free Program Renewed, Greenfield School
in Philadelphia Installs Rooftop Solar, 'Finding my Forest' Offers EE Resources for Grades 3-8

Higher Education: Four Southeastern Institutions Partner for Energy Research, Dickinson
College Earns Climate Leadership Award, 'Voices of Climate Change' Video Competition Open

Professional Development for Educators: Wind, Solar and Efficiency Workshop Open to
Educators, 'Green Your Learning Environment' Workshop Hosted at Phipps, Delaware Estuary
Summit Hosted in Cape May, NJ
Other Professional Development: Philadelphia Hosts National Brownfields Conference, Green
Jobs Training Offered in Bucks County, National Conference Highlights Green Jobs

Grants/Awards: WPC and Dominion Seek Proposals for Watershed Mini Grants, Labor and
Industry Conservation Corps Grants Open, NRCS Grants Available to Protect PA's Private
Forest Land, Volvo Adventure Competition Accepting Entries Until Jan. 31, Nicodemus
Wilderness Project Scholarships Available

Contributions welcome! The Center receives news and information from a variety of
sources across Pennsylvania and beyond. We appreciate all of the organizations, agencies and
individuals who provide EE services and share their relevant information.
If you would like to contribute to future issues of EE Connections, please submit your
article before the 15th of the month. Articles should be of statewide interest and are subject to
space availability.
Share EE Connections! If you know of others who would appreciate receiving EE
Connections, please complete the online form or call 724-738-9020. To see all of the resources
available on the PCEE website.

PPL Appliance Recycling Program Exceeds 15,000 Mark

PPL Electric Utilities estimates its customers saved 26,000 megawatt-hours of energy over the
past year -- enough for 2,600 homes for a year -- by participating in the company's E-power
appliance recycling program.
Since the program's launch in November 2009, PPL Electric Utilities customers have
recycled more than 15,000 older, energy-wasting refrigerators, freezers and room air
conditioners.
The company contracts with JACO Environmental to manage its appliance recycling
program. Customers are paid $35 for a refrigerator or freezer, and pickup is free. Customers
receive a $25 incentive for recycling their old room air conditioners, but those must be recycled
along with a refrigerator or freezer. Ninety-five percent of the materials are recycled and reused.
"Participating customers saved an incredible amount of energy in the past year by having
those 15,000 appliances recycled, and they reduced their carbon footprint and saved valuable
natural resources," said Michael Dunham, director of energy and environmental programs for
JACO Environmental. "This is a great start, but there's tremendous potential left out there to
multiply those benefits many times over."
PPL Electric Utilities' goal is to recycle about 70,000 appliances by May 2013.
Older refrigerators or freezers typically are kept in garages and basements and used to
store extra food or beverages. Most are underused and can cost as much as $150 a year to
operate.
In addition to incentives to recycle, E-power also offers customers rebates on certain
energy-efficient appliances such as refrigerators and clothes washers.
"Upgrading to more efficient appliances has real energy and financial benefits," said
Thomas C. Stathos, director of Customer Programs and Services for PPL Electric Utilities. "E-
power is all about using tools, programs and incentives to educate our customers on how to best
manage their energy use. These programs are gaining some real momentum."
 Participating in PPL Electric Utilities' appliance recycling offer is as easy as calling
1-877-270-3522 to schedule the pickup of an older refrigerator or freezer. Customers can also
schedule a pickup online.
The program is limited to the removal of two units per household and is available to PPL
Electric Utilities residential electric customers. To qualify, refrigerators and freezers must be in
working order with an inside measurement of 10 cubic feet or more.
NewsClips: Old Fridge? PPL Will Pay You For It
PPL Promotes Energy Rebate Program

Corbett Agenda

Growing Pennsylvania's Coal, Renewable, Energy Resources

As part of his campaign platform, Gov.-elect Tom Corbett laid out a series
of commitments on protecting the environment, developing Pennsylvania's
energy resources, enhancing agriculture and promoting sportsmen's issues.
In the last of this series, PA Environment Digest is taking a look
at the commitments he made on growing Pennsylvania's energy resources
(Marcellus Shale was covered earlier)--
As Governor, Tom Corbett will support and encourage the
development of Pennsylvania’s energy resources in an environmentally
sound manner. He will work with energy and environmental leaders,
consumers and state and local governments to blend our diverse portfolio of energy resources
with a common-sense environmental policy that protects Pennsylvania’s air, waterways and
lands.
From cultivating natural gas to growing alternative energy sources, Tom Corbett is
committed to fostering a 21st Century Pennsylvania energy industry with 21st Century
environmental stewardship.
Tom Corbett’s energy plan has five core areas:
-- Growing Our Energy Infrastructure;
-- Encouraging Renewable, Alternative & Clean Energy in Pennsylvania;
-- Cultivating Pennsylvania’s Coal Resources; and
-- Transitioning to Competitive Markets.
Harnessing Pennsylvania’s energy potential to reduce our dependence on foreign oil and
make energy affordable for all Pennsylvanians is an important priority for Tom Corbett.
Pennsylvania is home to the second largest energy field in the world with our abundant coal, gas,
oil and timber and our alternative energy sources such as wind, solar, nuclear, biomass,
geothermal and hydroelectric facilities.
We have an energy infrastructure that not only needs to be maintained, but also enhanced
to ensure safe and reliable energy supplies for Pennsylvania residents and neighboring states.
And, equally as important, Pennsylvania’s energy resources are a critical component to
revitalizing our economy, growing job opportunities and positioning the commonwealth in the
global marketplace.
Growing Our Energy Infrastructure
 Reliable and reasonably priced energy from a deep and diverse portfolio of sources,
including natural gas, coal, oil, nuclear, hydropower, renewable and alternative, is critical to the
prosperity of Pennsylvania. The commonwealth currently ranks second among states in the
amount of electricity generated and is first in the amount of electricity exported. Pennsylvania’s
electricity generation industry provides tens of thousands of good-paying jobs, and the
abundance of electricity generated in the commonwealth helps to hold down the cost of energy to
our citizens.
The energy services provided to the citizens of Pennsylvania depend in large part on the
quality of the infrastructure through which these services are provided. In Pennsylvania, and
across the nation, much of our energy infrastructure is aging and is in need of replacement or
modernization. Difficulty in siting is one of the main obstacles to building new energy
infrastructure. On almost every project, there are economic, social and environmental
considerations that must be balanced with the benefits that investment in infrastructure provides
to consumers. In general, Pennsylvania has adequate laws in place regarding the siting of energy
infrastructure, and the Public Utility Commission oversees that process. The commonwealth is
fortunate not to have a statewide siting process for new electric generating plants, which has
been an obstacle to building plants in other states.
The growth of the Marcellus Shale industry further elevates the need for a reliable energy
infrastructure. Given the potential of the Marcellus Shale and the projected gas production over
the next few decades, it is critical that Pennsylvania is able to safely and swiftly get the gas from
the wellhead to market. The siting of intrastate pipelines and “gathering lines” within this
industry are important infrastructure issues that require balancing energy production needs with
individual landowner concerns. This emerging issue requires thoughtful and prudent planning
and oversight.
As Governor, Tom Corbett will work to create an energy policy that encourages
investment in Pennsylvania’s infrastructure, while protecting our environment and ensuring that
consumers have access to affordable energy sources.
-- Create a Governor’s Energy Executive. While regulating aspects of energy use and
production that may impact the environment and helping the regulated community comply with
environmental regulations is a core function of DEP, the recruitment, promotion and growth of
the energy market is not. Energy development, deployment, usage and marketing issues
transcend the Department of Environmental Protection. As Governor, Tom Corbett will issue an
immediate Executive Order to designate a senior advisor within the Governor’s office to serve as
the state Energy Executive, who will be charged with coordinating the overall state energy
policy, utilizing expertise within the relevant agencies of state government.
-- Create an Infrastructure Improvement Tax Credit Program. Encouraging private sector
investment in Pennsylvania’s infrastructure is an important part of our energy growth. As
Governor, Tom Corbett will work to create an Infrastructure Improvement Tax Credit to enable
eligible infrastructure businesses to obtain a match for investments spent on infrastructure
investments.
-- Support competition through infrastructure – smart grid and smart meters. If
competition is going to thrive in Pennsylvania, our infrastructure needs to be updated to support
a competitive marketplace. Smart meters are essential and promote several important policy
initiatives in Pennsylvania beyond competition, including energy conservation and demand
response and promote renewable energy, net metering and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
Smart metering also creates operational efficiencies that result in savings that benefit all utility
customers. With respect to retail electric competition, smart meters give customers price
transparency allowing them to compare alternative suppliers' rate offerings with their default
service price. They can also take advantage of dynamic rate structures such as time-of-use rates,
which give customers significantly more power to control the size of their electric bill.
Given the critical policy initiatives that would be accomplished and the fact that
electricity consumption is projected to increase, Tom Corbett will work with the PUC to
encourage the cost-effective deployment of smart meters so that customers can benefit from the
smart grid. He also believes that Pennsylvania's smart metering policy should emphasize that the
new smart grid infrastructure must be interoperable and secure in accordance with industry and
government standards.
-- Coordinate interagency support of intrastate pipeline development. To support the
development of Pennsylvania’s mineral resources, Tom Corbett will direct the new Governor’s
Energy Executive to consult with the PUC, DEP and the Department of Conservation and
Natural Resources to coordinate interagency support of intrastate pipeline development.
-- Encourage energy conservation. Tom Corbett will work to encourage energy conservation
through competitive markets. Energy conservation puts less of a strain on our existing
infrastructure and potentially delays the need for new infrastructure
Encourage Renewable, Alternative & Clean Energy In PA
Given Pennsylvania’s growing role in the world energy market, Tom Corbett believes
that our state’s renewable, alternative and clean energy sources should be an important part of a
blended energy portfolio. Sources such as wind, solar, hydropower and nuclear are valuable
supplements to our current fuels and augment and strengthen our current supply of electricity.
This also includes the development and affordable use of other types of renewable and
alternative energy sources, including coal-to-liquids, gas-to-liquids, biodiesel, and other types of
biofuels, such as ethanol, syngas and methanol.
As Governor, Tom Corbett will work to support renewable, alternative and clean energy
sources in Pennsylvania to provide consumers with choices to meet their energy needs.
-- Meet Pennsylvania’s existing renewable energy objectives. When the Alternative Energy
Portfolio Standards Act (AEPS) was enacted in 2004, it created a market for renewable energy in
Pennsylvania by mandating all electric suppliers to include a percentage of their electricity from
renewable sources. As Governor, Tom Corbett will work with the PUC to effectively and
efficiently implement the current alternative energy standards and encourage sound and cost
effective renewable energy investment. Pennsylvania should also explore opportunities to
enhance alternative energy investments through the competitive market. Tom Corbett believes
that a properly structured market place can effectively incentivize alternative energy investments
– perhaps even more effectively than government mandates.
-- Improve the reliability of the grid. Reliable energy requires a solid infrastructure to get
energy resources to market – whether alternative or traditional sources. As Governor, Tom
Corbett will encourage the modernizing of the electric grid to better deliver alternative,
renewable and clean sources of energy to all regions of Pennsylvania. This will give more
consumers the opportunity to use alternative energies and also will support the growing
alternative and renewable industry.
-- Educate consumers. Pennsylvanians have choices when it comes to how their energy is
generated. For the first time in Pennsylvania’s history, the Electric Competition Act of 1996 gave
consumers the opportunity to choose to be “green.” Electric customers now are able to pick their
electric generation supplier, and they can choose electricity made from renewable sources. As
part of his larger education campaign to educate consumers about new choices within the
restructured marketplace, Tom Corbett will include information about the greening of the system
and the ability for Pennsylvanians to choose green energy suppliers.
-- Support the development of coal-to-liquids & gas-to-liquids. Coal-to-liquids (CTL) and
gas-to-liquids (GTL) technologies are available for producing superior clean liquid transportation
fuels from coal and gas. The U.S. relies heavily on imported crude oil to meet consumer demand.
In fact, 60-percent of the nation’s crude oil comes from other countries – translating to about 11
million barrels per day. Pennsylvania’s natural gas and coal reserves present great economic
opportunities for the state. As Governor, Tom Corbett will encourage private industry and
federal government investment in Pennsylvania to grow these clean energy sources and look to
build facilities throughout the commonwealth that meet all best available control technology
requirements and are fully bonded to ensure reclamation as required by law. In addition, he will
encourage oil refiners in the state to accept and blend these CTL and GTL products into their
downstream distribution network.
-- Grow the biodiesel industry. Pennsylvania’s biodiesel industry is providing both new fuel
and new refining capacity to the commonwealth’s energy infrastructure. In the past five years,
biodiesel refineries built in Pennsylvania provided a production capacity of 110 million gallons
of biodiesel per year, added over $190 million to the economy and created hundreds of jobs.
With agricultural commodity prices approaching record lows, more can be done to utilize
domestic surpluses of vegetable oils and animal fats while enhancing our energy security.
Biodiesel can be manufactured using existing industrial production capacity and conventional
equipment, and it reduces lifecycle carbon dioxide emissions by 78 percent. In 2009,
Pennsylvania biodiesel consumption eliminated 828 million pounds of carbon dioxide, the
equivalent of removing 9,000 passenger vehicles from Pennsylvania roadways – and this is
expected to increase to 90,000 vehicles in the near future. Biodiesel is the only alternative fuel in
the country to have successfully completed the EPA-required Tier I and Tier II health effects
testing under the Clean Air Act. As Governor, Tom Corbett will work with the federal
government to ensure that the Biodiesel Blenders Tax Credit Incentive is kept in place and will
look for additional opportunities to grow the biodiesel industry and new alternative energy jobs
in Pennsylvania.
-- Support nuclear power as a clean energy source. Nuclear provides over 35 percent of
Pennsylvania’s electric generation and produces 70 percent of our nation’s non-carbon emitting
energy. Not only are Pennsylvania’s nuclear plants essential to meeting the electricity needs of
our region’s consumers, they also play an important role in reducing air pollution by producing
emission-free electricity. Tom Corbett will work to help ensure that Pennsylvania’s nuclear
plants continue to operate and provide clean, safe and reliable electricity to the citizens of the
commonwealth.
-- Provide regulatory certainty to investors. Certainty in the marketplace is critical for the
growth and success in any new industry. It welcomes investors, creates new business
opportunities and leads to expansion and the creation of jobs. Renewable, alternative and clean
energy companies are growing in Pennsylvania, and Tom Corbett believes that we need to create
an environment in which these companies – and all job creators – can thrive. As Governor, Tom
Corbett is committed to providing regulatory stability in Pennsylvania and directing state
agencies to work with the energy industry to grow reliable and affordable sources of energy for
all Pennsylvanians.
-- Grow a skilled energy workforce. Every new industry holds the promise of job creation, and
the alternative energy market offers many opportunities for a skilled labor force – both retraining
displaced workers and introducing new workers to this industry sector. As Governor, Tom
Corbett will encourage public, private, career and technical schools, community colleges and
universities to explore these career paths and support their growth. He has outlined his full vision
for growing workforce development opportunities in Pennsylvania in his policy paper,
“Developing a World-class Workforce.”
Cultivating Pennsylvania's Coal Resources
Pennsylvania is home to one of the most abundant and diverse mineral resource fields in
the world.
The Marcellus Shale natural gas reserves in Pennsylvania represent the single largest
economic development opportunity in the commonwealth over the next several decades, and
Pennsylvania still remains the fourth largest coal producing state in the country. The responsible
development of these resources will make Pennsylvania a world leader in energy supply and
reduce our dependence on foreign oil. (Note: Marcellus Shale issues covered earlier.)
With proper oversight, accessing these resources can be accomplished in an
environmentally safe manner that protects Pennsylvania’s rivers, streams, lands and forests.
Extraction of natural gas, coal and crude oil can co-exist with environmental protection thanks to
innovative technological advances in drilling, mining methods, equipment, water protection and
treatment, and clean coal technology.
As Governor, Tom Corbett will encourage the development of our natural resources and
support policies that improve extraction efficiency and maximize environmental protection.
-- Grow mining in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania is the fourth largest coal producing state in the
country with coal beds underlying approximately 15,000 square miles, or 33 percent of the state.
Approximately 68 million tons of coal were mined in 2008, accounting for about seven percent
of the United States’ total annual coal production. The industry has created 49,100 direct and
indirect jobs, with a total payroll in excess of $2.2 billion. Taxes on these wages netted over
$700 million for federal, state and local governments.
Advancements in mining extraction technologies combined with a strict mine regulatory
program and rigorous permitting process have allowed mining to proceed in Pennsylvania
without posing permanent environmental impacts. As Governor, Tom Corbett will support the
development and use of newer technologies and processes for coal extraction that renders mining
more environmentally safe than it has been in the past.
-- Institute regulatory certainty. In order to better manage this great resource in a more
efficient manner, Tom Corbett is committed to having an understandable and predictable mining
regulatory program. DEP’s program staff will be directed to review existing mining regulations
to ensure that they are clear, not subject to misinterpretation or inconsistent enforcement and do
not impede innovations in compliance technology. He also will make sure that they are no more
stringent than corresponding federal regulations, unless there is a demonstrated compelling
Pennsylvania interest.
-- Embrace clean coal technologies. Clean Coal Technologies represent an environmentally
responsible means for Pennsylvania to meet its energy needs while taking advantage of an
indigenous resource. As Governor, Tom Corbett will form a task force to review this issue and
develop a report that provides a status and overview of pending technology; describes any
barriers towards development and deployment of these technologies; and includes
recommendations on what needs to be done to make these technologies deployable as soon as
possible.
-- Expediting the permitting process. Obtaining a coal mining permit in Pennsylvania can be a
cumbersome process that can tax the resources of the applicant. The length of time to secure a
permit and redundant reporting and permitting requirements are impediments to the start-up of
mining operations. The process itself generates volumes of paper that must be submitted to
various bureaus and divisions within DEP. And while requests for additional information are
common place, information transferred from one bureau to the next is not always timely sent by
DEP. As Governor, Tom Corbett will insist upon transparency and efficient permit review
procedures. In addition, any changes to the coal mining permitting process must:
-- Ensure that DEP staff executes their responsibilities in a results-oriented, cooperative
manner.
-- Create a stakeholders group to examine the permit review process to ensure its
transparency and to make changes intended to enhance process efficiencies, reduce permit lag
and make the process more predictable.
-- Explore an electronic permitting process to cut down on the volumes of paper required for a
typical permit application and to reduce delays and miscommunication within DEP.
Transition To Competitive Electric Markets
Pennsylvania is on the cusp of completing a transition to a competitive electricity market
that has been over a decade and a half in the making. Pennsylvanians across the state are facing
or are about to face changes that will have a significant impact on the way they manage their
homes or businesses.
By January 1, 2011, all of Pennsylvania’s electricity consumers will be presented with
opportunities associated with a restructured electricity industry. If Pennsylvania consumers are
educated about these opportunities and empowered with the tools they need to take full
advantage of them, the promise of a restructured electricity market is indeed bright.
Pennsylvanians and their elected officials need to work together to understand this new
market structure. While much has been done to prepare Pennsylvania for this new structure, there
is still more work to do in order for Pennsylvanians to take full advantage of this change.
In December of 1996, the Pennsylvania General Assembly sent a bold message, declaring
that “competitive market forces are more effective than economic regulation in controlling the
costs of generating electricity.” Prior to 1996, consumers did not have any choices. They were
told by regulators the terms by which they were going to receive service and the only option was
to take that service on those terms or not take it at all. Our electricity industry was plagued by
inefficient plants and cost overruns that resulted in billions of dollars of stranded costs.
Renewable energy had yet to really find a niche and conservation was a civic virtue, not an
economic opportunity.
Fourteen years later, Pennsylvania can be rightfully proud of the progress that has been
made. Pennsylvania’s power plants are running with increased efficiency, renewable energy
projects are being developed in all corners of the commonwealth, competitive options are driving
prices down in areas where rate caps have expired and the reliability of the grid remains solid.
 While we can be pleased with the progress that has been made to date, Pennsylvania can
ill-afford to become complacent. A restructured electricity market demands vigilance and
nurturing if Pennsylvania is to remain in the vanguard.
As Governor, Tom Corbett will support competition and complete the transition to
competitive markets for supplying and generating electricity and ensure that Pennsylvania
consumers have access to the best service and best prices. If structured and regulated
appropriately, competition will encourage innovation, efficiency, conservation and choice to
meet the preferences of consumers. In order to complete the transition to competitive electricity
markets, Tom Corbett will pursue a three-part agenda.
-- Create an Electricity Consumers’ Bill of Rights. Educated and empowered consumers are
the keystone of a competitive electricity market. Consumers liberated from monopoly regulation
will push the limits of the marketplace, demand technological innovation and participate actively
in the market through their conservation. As Governor, Tom Corbett will work with the General
Assembly and key stakeholders to pass an Electricity Consumers’ Bill of Rights to ensure that
Pennsylvania’s consumers will have the tools they need to compete and win in a restructured
market place.
-- Conduct additional consumer education. A restructured marketplace demands that
consumers think differently about their electricity. After many years of capped rates, consumers
must adjust to market-based pricing, prepare for potential increases in wholesale energy prices
and take steps to prepare for and reduce their electric bills. Consumer education enables
customers to realize the benefits of competition by offering access to innovative rate designs,
renewable energy products, choice of a competitive supplier, conservation and energy efficiency.
Education is also essential for low-income and vulnerable customers to maintain service by
taking advantage of utility programs to control the size of their electric bills and seek customer
assistance.
-- Focus state government on markets. Government is most effective when it empowers
private investors and companies to solve problems through innovation. As Governor, Tom
Corbett will spur productive investment in Pennsylvania’s energy sector by directing all of the
government agencies involved in state energy policy to institute policies that promote private
sector innovation and competition to meet the commonwealth’s energy needs.
He will direct the Energy Executive to oversee interagency coordination to ensure
effective energy policy implementation without the need for additional state bureaucracy or
taxpayer expense. He also will direct all agencies under the governor’s jurisdiction to streamline
environmental permitting and prioritize energy projects that promote economic development and
investment.
In addition, Tom Corbett will appoint agency heads and Public Utility Commissioners
focused on innovation and promoting competitive markets and solutions to energy problems.

The entire Energy policy paper is available online.

Updated Time-of-Use Rate OK'd For PPL Residential, Small Business Customers

The Public Utility Commission this week approved an updated, voluntary program where PPL
offers customers a rate based upon the time of day they use electricity.
 The Commission voted 5-0 to provide PPL residential and small commercial and
industrial customers the optional pricing for electric generation service, known as time-of-use
rates. Commissioner Robert F. Powelson issued a statement.
Under the TOU rates, higher rates would be charged for on-peak hours while lower rates
would be charged for off-peak hours. The on-peak and off-peak periods are predefined for four
summer months (June through September) and eight non-summer months. The actual on-peak
and off-peak generation pricing will be set quarterly based on forward wholesale electricity
market pricing.
The underlying objective of the TOU rates is to encourage customers to shift their electric
usage from on-peak periods when wholesale demand and prices are high to off-peak periods
when wholesale demand and prices are lower. The goal is to reduce peak demand on generation
resources, contribute to reducing wholesale electricity power during the hours of highest demand
and provide customers with an opportunity to reduce their monthly electric bills.
The program is effective on January 1, 2011 and continues in line with PPL’s Default
Service Procurement Plan through May 31, 2013.

PUC Sustainable Energy Board To Highlight Sustainable Energy Projects December 7

A green hotel in Philadelphia, a solar photovoltaic system on a science pavilion at Saint Vincent
College in Latrobe, aiding economic development in the Lehigh Valley with green jobs,
exploring energy efficiency in Berks Co. and other sustainable energy projects across
Pennsylvania will be showcased at the December 7 meeting of the PUC's Sustainable Energy
Board.
Sustainable energy, as this type of energy is termed, deals with energy sources which are
all renewable: solar, water, wind, and geothermal power. These sources provide not only an
alternative and green energy, they also rely on sources that are readily available and ensure the
energy needs of future generations.
The projects, like the funds themselves, cross each corner of the state.
The Reinvestment Fund/PECO Electric Co.
The Reinvestment Fund Sustainable Development Fund, which covers the PECO Electric
Co. service territory, has received $20.5 million of American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
funding to capitalize a state-wide building energy loan program.
The funding came in three separate awards – from the City of Philadelphia, from the
Department of Environmental Protection and from the U.S. Department of Energy. The three
awards have different geographic coverage and have fashioned a single building energy loan
program that is operating across Pennsylvania.
With one of these loans, the Homewood Suites Extended Stay Hotel will be a new
10-story building in West Philadelphia that will consume 25 percent less energy than allowed by
the current building energy code.
The 136-room building will be Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)
certified. LEED is an internationally recognized green building certification system, providing
third-party verification that a building or community was designed and built using strategies
intended to improve performance in metrics such as energy savings, water efficiency, carbon
dioxide emissions reduction, improved indoor environmental quality, and stewardship of
resources and sensitivity to their impacts.
 TRF financial support included a $1.6 million energy loan and a much larger new
markets tax credit financing. The total project budget is $50 million.
West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund
The West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund will help to support the acquisition and
installation of a solar photovoltaic system as part of a capital project to expand and renovate the
Sis and Herman Dupre Science Pavilion for the Herbert W. Boyer School of Natural Sciences,
Mathematics, and Computing at St. Vincent College in Latrobe, Pennsylvania.
The $100,000 grant will help to offset the cost of a 20 kWh photovoltaic system. The
panels generate an estimated 30,000 kWh annually and were purchased from Solar Power
Industries in western Pennsylvania. The science pavilion is being constructed as a green building
with the goal of achieving a Gold rating under the LEED system.
By supplying clean, renewable energy to the building, the photovoltaic system will help
to reduce the carbon footprint of the science pavilion and will serve as a model for adaptation
and replication at other colleges and universities, businesses, and organizations.
PPL Electric Utilities Inc. Sustainable Energy Fund
The 2010 Sustainable Energy Conference was the focus of the PPL Electric Utilities Inc.
Sustainable Energy Fund. The conference was held July 14-16, 2010, at Lehigh University in
Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. The industry's top sustainable energy trainers led pre-conference boot
camps in solar photovoltaic, solar thermal, wind energy and energy efficiency.
The conference focused on green jobs, economic development and education and
included over 60 seminars and more than 50 speakers. The conference also included an expo,
which featured exhibits from local and regional energy efficiency and renewable energy
generation contractors.
Berks County Community Foundation and the Community Foundation for the
Alleghenies/ Met-Ed and Penelec
Berks County Community Foundation and the Community Foundation for the
Alleghenies, through its Met-Ed/Penelec Sustainable Energy Fund, recently partnered with eCap
Network to help mid-size organizations, nonprofits and municipal governments in the utility's
service territory navigate the complexities of energy efficiency and renewable energy
opportunities.
eCap identifies sustainable energy solutions that maximize energy and resource
efficiencies. eCap Network takes organizations through the following process:
-- Meets with the organization to determine its energy needs;
-- Performs an energy audit of the organization;
-- Presents a detailed report of an estimated project cost, as well as a time line;
-- Outlines any available funding or investments available for the project;
-- Assists the organization in financing the project; and
-- Gives a report to the organization with the environmental and economic impact of the project.
The PASEB was originally established by the Commission in 1999 to provide oversight,
guidance and technical assistance to the regional sustainable energy boards that fund projects
such as wind farms, solar power systems, smart thermostat programs and the construction of
buildings using energy efficient technologies.
On August 7, 2003, the Commission issued an order further defining the role of the
PASEB. That order charged the PASEB with holding an annual meeting; enhancing
communications among the four funds and state agencies; and establishing bylaws and a "best
business practices" model.

EPA Calls For Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Award Nominations

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is accepting nominations for the 2011 Annual
Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Awards.
Nominations are due by December 31.
This year the agency is encouraging nominations for the design of safer and more
sustainable chemicals, processes, and products that will protect the public, particularly children
and other sensitive populations, from exposure to harmful chemicals.
The awards recognize innovative technologies that incorporate green chemistry into
chemical design, manufacture and use and help advance the protection of human health and the
environment.
“EPA’s green chemistry program has long been a catalyst for new approaches and
innovation,” said Steve Owens, assistant administrator for EPA’s Office of Chemical Safety and
Pollution Prevention. “This year, EPA is encouraging green chemistry award nominations that
will help achieve our goal to ensure that chemicals are safe for use in products, homes, schools
and workplaces."
The 2011 Presidential Green Chemistry Challenge Awards will mark the 16th year of the
program. Throughout the first 15 years, EPA received more than 1,300 nominations and
presented awards to 77 winners.
Winning technologies alone are responsible for reducing the use or generation of more
than 198 million pounds of hazardous chemicals, saving 21 billion gallons of water, and
eliminating 57 million pounds of carbon dioxide releases to air.
For the 2011 awards, nominated technologies should reduce or eliminate the use or
generation of hazardous substances from a chemical product or process. Companies, non-profit
organizations, public academic institutions, and their representatives may nominate green
chemistry technologies for the awards. Self-nominations are welcome and expected.
Typically, one award is given each year in five categories: greener synthetic pathways,
greener reaction conditions, designing greener chemicals, small business, and academic.
More information, visit the EPA Green Chemistry Awards webpage.

Developing Effective Invasive Species Laws, Programs Webcast December 8

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is hosting a free webcast December 8 starting
at 11:45 Eastern time on developing and implementing effective invasive species laws and
programs.
For more information and to join the webcast, visit The Stewardship Network webpage.

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 15-- Western PA Conservancy, Dominion Watershed Mini Grants
December 17-- DEP Environmental Education Grants
December 17-- Coldwater Heritage Partnership Grants
December 30-- PA Parks & Forest Foundation 2011 Awards
December 31-- NEW. 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-- NEW. Vote For Pennsylvania River Of The Year
January 7-- PA Conservation Corps Grants
February 15-- PennVEST Water Infrastructure Funding
February 25-- Foundation for PA Watersheds Grants
March 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

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--

PA Douglas Fir Is White House Tree

Budget
Where Will Corbett Find $4 Billion To Cut?
Corbett Donating Salary Raise To Charity
Rendell, Cabinet, Management Employee Pay Freeze Extended
Special Legislative Session Produces No Laws
Some Lawmakers Refuse Pay Raises
Rendell Finds $45 Million For Pittsburgh Transit
$2.7 Million Project In Benjamin Rush State Park
Other
Team To Study Impact Of Green Buildings
Dunmore Students Take To Alternative Energy Trend
Nazareth Schools Put Solar Panels On Ice
Report: Solar Jobs On Rise, PA Second In Nation
PA's Solar Industry Strong, But That Could Change
Old Fridge? PPL Will Pay You For It
PPL Promotes Energy Rebate Program
TNC Study Shows Wind, Gas Drilling Trends
New Invention Reuses 19-Year Old GE Locomotive
Pyrex Maker Pursues Energy Improvements With Grant
Gas Bills To Drop For UGI Customers
Editorial: Congress Must Curb Diesel Emissions
Op-Ed: Cap And Trade Threatens Economic Recovery
Editorial: Regional Climate Initiative Failed
Harrisburg Incinerator Projected To Turn Profit
Editorial: Hunting A Significant Part Of Our Culture
New Hiking Trail Opens In Dunmore
Berks Mineshaft Rescue Effort One For The Books

Marcellus Shale NewsClips

Here are NewsClips on topics related to Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling---

Judge Denies Driller's Motion To Dismiss Dimock Lawsuit

Dimock Suit To Advance
Proposed Waterline In Dimock Pits Neighbor Against Neighbor
Editorial: Northeastern PA Gas Driling Suit Advances
Sen. Baker: Witness May Have Lied At Homeland Security Hearing
Penn State Publication Focuses On Water Withdrawal for Gas Drilling
Former Gov. Ridge On Marcellus Shale (Audio)
PA Hunters See Effects Of Gas Drilling Operations
Drilling Sites Present Obstacles For Hunters
New PA Erosion Regs Affect All But Oil & Gas Industry
Somerset Groups Recognized For Water Monitoring Efforts
SRBC Expands Drilling Monitoring Network To NY
Penn State: Marcellus Shale And Pipelines Workshop Dec. 15
Judge: Pipeline Companies Not Public Utilities
Gas Pipeline Firm's Plan In PA Hit Snag
Drillers Try To Ease Public Concerns
Mt. Pleasant Couple Sue Consol Over Gas Royalties
Family Sues Consol Over Gas Drilling Royalties
Marcellus Shale: Drilling Dilemma Digs Deep
Neighbor's Luck On Drilling May Spread To Columbia County
Drilling Ordinance Vetoed In Whitehall
Murrysville's Rules May Lack Wells To Regulate
Oil, Gas Drilling District At Issue In Murrysville
TNC Study Shows Wind, Gas Drilling Trends
Drillers Not Demurred By Early Luzerne Results
By Any Measure, The Marcellus Shale Is Booming
Shale Industry Delivers Message To Chambers
Editorial: Treatment Of Land And Water Our Responsibility
Experts Agree: NY Fracking Moratorium Symbolic
Financial
Antero Resources Buys Marcellus Shale In PA, WV

Watershed NewsClips

Here are NewsClips on watershed topics from around the state--

EPA Plans To Take A Month To Evaluate Chesapeake Bay Plans

New York Misses EPA Deadline For Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Plan
Report: Chesapeake Bay Cleanup Would Spur Economy
Copy Of CBF Report
New PA Erosion Regs Affect All But Oil & Gas Industry
Trout Unlimited Stresses Better Water Is Top Priority
Six Years Later, Agony Of Delaware Oil Spill Still Reverberates
Initiative Hopes Votes Flow To Honor The Stonycreek
Asian Carp Create Nagging Fear
Column: Casey Joins Effort To Protect Great Lakes
Editorial: Congress Must Act Now To Save Great Lakes
Editorial: Treatment Of Land And Water Our Responsibility
Delaware River At Dangerous Water Levels

Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice the reclamation fee for 2011 will
be $0.00, notice of a final General Permit for Bluestone Mining (5 acres or less), notice of the
renewal of the NPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Industrial Activities
(PAG-03), notice of modifications to the Short-Term Construction Mining General Permit
(PMR-GP-103).

Pennsylvania Bulletin - December 4, 2010

Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage

Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage

Rolling Regulatory Agenda - DEP webpage

Technical Guidance & Permits

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice of draft policy changes relating to
implementation of Total Dissolved Solids regulations.

Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines - DEP webpage

Copies Of Draft Technical Guidance - DEP webpage

Copies of Final Technical Guidance - DEP webpage

Calendar Of Events

Upcoming legislative meetings, conferences, workshops, plus links to other online calendars.
Meetings are in Harrisburg unless otherwise noted. NEW means new from last week. Go to the
online Calendar webpage.

Click on Agenda Released on calendar entries to see the NEW meeting agendas published this
week.

December 6-- CANCELED. DEP Certification Program Advisory Committee meeting.

Rescheduled for January 11. (formal notice)

December 7-- CANCELED. DEP Storage Tank Advisory Committee meeting. (formal notice)

December 8-- Agenda Released. Delaware River Basin Commission meeting. West Trenton,
NJ. (formal notice)

December 9-- Agenda Released. DEP Coal And Clay Mine Subsidence Insurance Fund
Board meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00. (formal notice)

December 10-- CANCELED. DEP Coal and Clay Mine Subsidence Insurance Fund Board
meeting. (formal notice)

December 10-- DEP Board for Certification of Water and Wastewater Systems Operators.
Rescheduled from December 17. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.
(formal notice)

December 15-- CANCELED. DEP Agricultural Advisory Board meeting. Next scheduled
meeting is February 16. (formal notice)

December 16-- Susquehanna River Basin Commission meeting to consider water withdrawal
requests. Agenda. Aberdeen, MD. (formal notice)
December 16-- Forestry Task Force, Joint Legislative Air & Water Pollution Control and
Conservation Committee. Celebration Hall, State College. 10:00.

December 17-- CANCELED. DEP Board for Certification of Water and Wastewater Systems
Operators. Rescheduled for December 10. (formal notice)

January 11-- NEW. DEP Certification Program Advisory Committee meeting. (formal
notice)

DEP Calendar of Events

Environmental Education Workshop/Training Calendar (PA Center for Environmental

Education)

Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule

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

Stories Invited

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

PA Environment Digest is edited by David E. Hess, former Secretary Pennsylvania Department

of Environmental Protection and is published as a service to the clients of Crisci Associates, a
Harrisburg-based government and public affairs firm whose clients include Fortune 500
companies and non-profit organizations. For more information on Crisci Associates, call
717-234-1716.

PA Environment Digest was the winner of the PA Association of Environmental Educators'

2009 Business Partner of the Year Award.

Supporting Member PA Outdoor Writers Assn./PA Trout Unlimited

PA Environment Digest is a supporting member of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers

Association, Pennsylvania Council Trout Unlimited and the Doc Fritchey Chapter Trout
Unlimited.