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 June 25, 2012

Republicans Agree On A General Fund Spend Number, Now The Hard Part Senate and House Republicans and Gov. Corbett Wednesday announced an agreement on a General Fund spend number-- $27.656 billion, taking the first major step toward resolving their differences over largest portion of the state budget. This spending cap is about $500 million more than the Governors request and almost identical to what Senate and House Republicans have been advocating. In return, the Governor received a commitment from the Leaders to adopt the $1.65 billion tax credit initiative he proposed to attract the Shell ethane plant to Beaver County. There is no word yet on whether the Keystone Fund will be restored to the Senates level of $19 million or the House proposal of full restoration of all $38 million. There is also no word yet on whether other environmental funding will be restored. In addition, there is also apparent agreement on at least some funding increases over the Governors budget request--- $245 million for higher education restorations; -- $100 million for K-12 accountability block grant programs; -- $82 million for county welfare programs, restoring half the funds that were removed; and -- $25 million for the Educational Improvement Tax Credit. NewsClips: Framework For $27.656 Billion Budget Reached Corbett Agrees To Restore Budget PA Has A Deal On Budget Any PA Budget Deal Remains Under Wraps State Budget Agreement Launches Other Negotiations Corbett, Lawmakers Reach Deal On $1.65 Billion Shell Tax Break Corbetts Tax Breaks For Shell Raises Questions About Jobs Support For Shell Tax Break In Monaca, Questions On Job Claims Corbett Launches Public Defense Of Shell Tax Credit Corbett Lines Up Shell Tax Credit Crew Shells $3.2 Billion Plant Estimated To Create 17,000 Jobs Big Test For Corbett Looms In Election, Tax Credit Are Tax Breaks Effective To Reel In Businesses? Shell Tax Credit Breaks Designed To Be Offset Op-Ed: Shell Tax Breaks Would Pay Off For PA Editorial: Corbetts Shell Tax Break Good Deal For State

Did You Know You Can Search 8 Years Of Digests On Any Topic? Did you know you can search 8 years of back issues of the PA Environment Digest on dozens of topics, by county and on any key word you choose. Just click on the search page. Also take advantage of these related services from Crisci Associates-PA Environment Digest Twitter Feed: On Twitter, sign up to receive instant updates from: PAEnviroDigest. PA Environment Daily Blog: provides daily environmental NewsClips and significant stories and announcements on environmental topics in Pennsylvania of immediate value. Sign up and receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. PA Environment Digest Video Blog: showcases original and published videos from environmental groups and agencies around the state. Sign up to receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS read. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. PA Capitol Digest Daily Blog to get updates every day on Pennsylvania State Government, including NewsClips, coverage of key press conferences and more. Sign up and receive as they are posted updates through your favorite RSS reader. You can also sign up for a once daily email alerting you to new items posted on this blog. PA Capitol Digest Twitter Feed: Don't forget to sign up to receive the PA Capitol Digest Twitter feed to get instant updates on other news from in and around the Pennsylvania State Capitol. Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule/Bills Introduced Here are the Senate and House Calendars and Committee meetings showing bills of interest as well as a list of new environmental bills introduced-Session Schedule (change) Here is the latest voting session schedule for the Senate and House-Senate June 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 House June 23 (non-voting), 25, 26, 27, 28, 29 Bill Calendars

House (June 25): Senate Bill 367 (D.White-R-Indiana) providing for mineral resource development on other state lands and providing for allocation of revenue; Senate Bill 1150 (Smucker-R-Lancaster) providing for an historic preservation tax credit; House Resolution 438 (Cruz-D-Philadelphia) urging Philadelphia to establish a waste tire removal and disposal program; House Resolution 423 (Petri-R-Bucks) directing the Legislative Budget and Finance Committee to study state funding formulas and how they impact counties; House Resolution 505 (Preston-D-Allegheny) disapproving the PUC regulation on natural gas competition; House Resolution 750 (Godshall-R- Montgomery) memorializing the President and Congress to provide for the storage of used nuclear fuel; <> Click Here for full House Bill Calendar. Senate (June 25): Senate Bill 1480 (Corman-R-Centre) providing for the 2012-13 Capital Budget; Senate Bill 1532 (Vogel-R-Beaver) exempting certain vehicles from the vehicle emissions inspection program; House Bill 3 (Geist-R-Blair) providing for private-public transportation projects; House Bill 1682 (Taylor-R-Philadelphia) further providing for the creation of land banks; House Bill 1934 (F.Keller-R-Snyder) further providing for mandatory recycling; House Bill 2022 (Peifer-R-Monroe) providing for a PA Business Permitting Portal within DCED. <> Click Here for full Senate Bill Calendar. Committees House: <> Click Here for full House Committee Schedule. Senate: the Appropriations Committee meets to consider House Bill 728 (Barrar-R-Bucks) setting new standards for emergency shut-off values for facilities dispensing flammable liquids. <> Click Here for full Senate Committee Schedule. Other: the Joint Legislative Budget and Finance Committee meets to consider release of a report on PAs LIHEAP Program. Bills Introduced The following bills of interest were introduced this week-Ethane Plant Incentives: House Bill 2493 (White-D-Washington) would impose a small surtax on the production of natural gas for a new Energy Employment Legacy Fund to provide incentives for the location of ethane plants. Waste To Energy AEPS Credits: Senate Bill 1568 (Folmer-R-Lebanon) moving waste-toenergy facilities into Tier I of the Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards.

Bills On Governor's Desk

The following bills were given final approval by the Senate and House and now go to the Governor for his action--

Flood Recovery: House Bill 1913 (Culver-R- Northumberland) providing for flood damage local property tax relief and passed by the Senate. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available.) The bill now goes to the Governor for his action. Storage Tank Cleanup: Senate Bill 1398 (Yudichak-D-Luzerne) extending the Storage Tank Cleanup Program was reported out of the House Appropriations Committee and passed by the House without amendment. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. The bill now goes to the Governor for his action. BioEnergy Crops: House Bill 608 (Brooks-R- Crawford) providing for the use of bioenergy crops in mine reclamation was passed by the Senate without amendment. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available. The bill now goes to the Governor for his action. Regulatory Review: House Bill 1349 (Pickett-R-Bradford) providing for small business impact as part of regulatory review was amended on the Senate Floor and passed unanimously by the Senate and concurred in by the House. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. The bill now goes to the Governor for his action. The complexity of state regulations, along with the undue hardships that sometimes follow many regulatory mandates, hamper the success of small businesses to compete in the business world, and it is time that the voice of small businesses be considered when forming regulations, said Rep. Tina Pickett, a former small business owner. This legislation gives small businesses a seat at the table so their input and experience are considered when regulations are drafted, debated and approved. This type of input is valuable to improve our business climate in Pennsylvania and attract more job creators. Ensuring that we have the proper regulations in place to protect the public is an important part of our role in state government, but we must also achieve a reasonable balance to ensure that the benefit of the regulation isnt outweighed by unreasonable cost, bureaucratic red tape or redundancy, she said. Instead, this legislation allows a business to be given more flexibility in meeting paperwork deadlines or submitting paperwork electronically instead of through the mail. Biofuels Compliance: House Bill 807 (Sonney-R-Erie) further providing for the definition, content, registration and enforcement of the Biofuel Development and In-State Production Incentive Act was passed by the Senate. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note is available. The House then concurred in Senate amendments and sent the bill to the Governor for his action.

Senate/House Bills Moving

The following bills of interest saw action this week in the House and Senate-House Storage Tank Cleanup: Senate Bill 1398 (Yudichak-D-Luzerne) extending the Storage Tank Cleanup Program was reported out of the House Appropriations Committee and passed by the House without amendment. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. The bill now goes to the Governor for his action.

Energy Assistance: House Bill 1991 (Cutler-R-Lancaster) further providing for eligibility screening for energy conservation assistance was reported from the House Appropriations Committee and passed by the House. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. The bill now goes to the Senate for consideration. Nuclear Fuel Storage: House Resolution 750 (Godshall-R- Montgomery) memorializing the President and Congress to provide for the storage of used nuclear fuel was reported from the House State Government Committee and is on the House Calendar for action. Uniform Permit Reviews: House Bill 1659 (Pyle-R-Armstrong) providing for a uniform permit review and consideration process within DEP was removed from the Table, amended on the House Floor after extended debate and many amendments and was referred into the House Appropriations Committee. Permit Extensions: House Bill 2470 (Evankovich-R-Armstrong) amending the Fiscal Code to further provide for government permit extensions was reported from the House Finance Committee and referred to the House Rules Committee. Senate BioEnergy Crops: House Bill 608 (Brooks-R- Crawford) providing for the use of bioenergy crops in mine reclamation was passed by the Senate without amendment. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note are available. The bill now goes to the Governor for his action. Regulatory Review: House Bill 1349 (Pickett-R-Bradford) providing for small business impact as part of regulatory review was amended on the Senate Floor and passed unanimously by the Senate and concurred in by the House. A summary and House Fiscal Note are available. The bill now goes to the Governor for his action. The complexity of state regulations, along with the undue hardships that sometimes follow many regulatory mandates, hamper the success of small businesses to compete in the business world, and it is time that the voice of small businesses be considered when forming regulations, said Rep. Tina Pickett, a former small business owner. This legislation gives small businesses a seat at the table so their input and experience are considered when regulations are drafted, debated and approved. This type of input is valuable to improve our business climate in Pennsylvania and attract more job creators. Ensuring that we have the proper regulations in place to protect the public is an important part of our role in state government, but we must also achieve a reasonable balance to ensure that the benefit of the regulation isnt outweighed by unreasonable cost, bureaucratic red tape or redundancy, she said. Instead, this legislation allows a business to be given more flexibility in meeting paperwork deadlines or submitting paperwork electronically instead of through the mail. Biofuels Compliance: House Bill 807 (Sonney-R-Erie) further providing for the definition, content, registration and enforcement of the Biofuel Development and In-State Production Incentive Act was passed by the Senate. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note is available. The

House then concurred in Senate amendments and sent the bill to the Governor for his action. Mandatory Recycling: House Bill 1934 (F.Keller-R-Snyder) further providing for mandatory recycling was reported from the Senate Appropriations Committee and is on the Senate Calendar for action. Private-Public Transportation Projects: House Bill 3 (Geist-R-Blair) providing for privatepublic transportation projects was amended and reported from the Senate Appropriations Committee and is on the Senate Calendar for action. A summary and Senate Fiscal Note is available. Emissions Inspection: Senate Bill 1532 (Vogel-R-Beaver) exempting certain vehicles from the vehicle emissions inspection program was reported from the Senate Transportation Committee and is now on the Senate Calendar for action. Business Permitting Portal: House Bill 2022 (Peifer-R-Monroe) providing for a PA Business Permitting Portal within DCED was amended and reported from the Senate Community, Economic and Recreational Development Committee and is now on the Senate Calendar for action. Alternative Energy: Senate Bill 1544 (Wozniak-D-Cambria) authorizing DCNR to lease lands for wind, solar and other renewable energy projects was reported from the Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee and was referred to the Senate Appropriations Committee. Emergency Shut-Offs: House Bill 728 (Barrar-R-Bucks) setting new standards for emergency shut-off values for facilities dispensing flammable liquids was referred to the Senate Appropriations Committee. Mine Drainage Reuse: Senate Bill 1346 (Kasunic-D-Somerset) encouraging the use of mine drainage water for fracking and other purposes was referred to the Senate Appropriations Committee.

News From The Capitol

Senate Committee OKs Bill Expanding Vehicle Emission Inspection Exemptions Senate Bill 1532 (Vogel-R-Beaver) which Sen. Vogel explained would exempt light passenger vehicles ten years old or newer and alternative fuel vehicles from the vehicle emissions inspection program was reported out of the Senate Transportation Committee Tuesday and is now on the Senate Calendar for action. The language in Senate Bill 1532, however, says, (5) Emission inspection criteria for newest model year vehicles.-- A subject vehicle never before registered in this Commonwealth or any other jurisdiction shall be exempt from the requirements for emission inspection for ten years from the date of original registration. "I want to thank the members of the Senate Transportation Committee for voting to move this commonsense, bipartisan legislation forward," said Sen. Elder Vogel. "This legislation

will help drivers to avoid this costly and inherently unfair emissions testing program, while also making sure our air remains clean." The statewide emissions failure rate is less than 2.5 percent of all vehicles with the newest vehicles failing at a rate of one quarter of one percent. Despite the very low failure rate, the emissions testing program costs more than $250 million a year for consumers according to Drive Clean PA and millions of tax dollars to administer by the Commonwealth. Newer state and federal laws have done much to address vehicle emissions, including requirements that cars sold in Pennsylvania have to meet more stringent California emission standards. The Federal Government requires certain areas in Pennsylvania to test emissions but gives the states wide latitude in its implementation. All of the states required to check emissions from vehicles provide for many exemptions from their testing while Pennsylvania only exempts light passenger diesel vehicles. Senate Bill 1532 would also add exemptions for electric, hybrid electric or compressed natural gas vehicles from the requirements of Pennsylvania's emissions testing program. "As I have said, I think the Federal Government needs to give serious consideration to ending these testing requirements. There is no better example of how absurd this has become than Ellwood City Borough in my district. The Borough is located in both Beaver and Lawrence counties and some residents on one side of Division Street are required to get tested while the residents on the other are not," Sen. Vogel added. "The goal of this legislation to make this program more consumer-friendly. It's clear that cleaner vehicles are helping the air and environment we live in, but a costly annual emission test program is not." Its time to update our automobile mandates to reflect reality, said Sen. John Wozniak (D-Cambria), a co-sponsor of the bill. When emissions inspections were enacted, there were still a lot of old, polluting cars on the road. Today, nearly all cars pass the emissions test and drivers have to pay up to $50 to be told what they already know. Other states have waived emissions inspections for new cars up to a certain age, saving taxpayers a small fortune, he said. Pennsylvanias new car owners have already paid dearly for that new car technology, they shouldnt have to pay for a redundant test. NewsClip: Auto Emissions Exemption Bill Advances In Senate PA Biomass Energy Assn Presents Before Joint Conservation Committee The PA Biomass Energy Association on Monday told the states Joint Legislative Air and Water Pollution Control and Conservation Committee that sustainable biomass has an important role to play in an all of the above energy policy for Pennsylvanias future. The Pennsylvania biomass industry is vast and diverse. It creates jobs, stimulates local economies, provides significant environmental benefits, and saves homeowners and businesses millions of dollars in energy costs annually. While biomass has historically been viewed as a wood-based industry, PBEA leadership gave a much broader overview of the different materials that qualify as biomass, along with benefits, challenges, and opportunities for the industry as a whole. Pennsylvania has one of the best forest products industries in the world, leaving a wealth of opportunities for the biomass industry and end-users of all scales said Jay Clark, PBEA President. However, it is also important to keep in mind that biomass is more than just wood. For example, Pennsylvania ranks second in the country in anaerobic digesters, and is also

a leader in biogas from methane collection at landfills. Biomass includes food waste, animal wastes, low use wood, crop residues and more. PBEA leadership detailed the segments of the industry which range from farms and forests to engineers and architects, manufacturing facilities and combined heat and power operations. Applications for biomass energy include residential heating, schools, hospitals, cogeneration facilities and commercial scale electric generation. Pennsylvania has a solid foundation with hundreds of successful projects already in place or about to go online, in addition to the extensive residential market which has seen a huge spike in growth over the past ten years as a result of locally sourced fuel and higher oil and gas prices. While opportunities are great, PBEA leadership also detailed challenges the industry is facing, including economic uncertainties in financing, government policies, feedstock logistics, and a need to educate end-users, developers and suppliers about the economics and environmental benefits of biomass energy. In speaking before the JLCC, PBEA took a step forward in fulfilling one of the core goals of the Association educating policymakers and end-users, said Karen Smeltz, PBEA Vice President. In August we will take another step when we unveil a report currently being developed by the Association to detail the opportunities and challenges for biomass energy in Pennsylvania and recommend policies for the future. Rep. Scott Hutchinson (R-Venango) serves as Chair of the Joint Conservation Committee. Rep. White Bill To Create Non-Taxpayer Funded Ethane Cracker Incentives Rep. Jesse White (D-Washington) announced the introduction of House Bill 2493 to attract the global gas company Royal Dutch Shell to Pennsylvania, but without the use of any taxpayer dollars. House Bill 2493, would impose a small surtax on the production of natural gas for a new "Energy Employment Legacy Fund." That fund would pay for tax incentives to industries that use ethane in manufacturing processes, including Gov. Corbett's controversial $1.6 billion tax credit proposal for Royal Dutch Shell. "This revenue-neutral legislation is a perfect way to demonstrate that we strongly support the concept of the ethane cracker and its impact on job creation while adopting a fiscally responsible approach that avoids passing $1.6 billion in debt onto Pennsylvania taxpayers," Rep. White said. "The taxpayers have already created a tax-free Keystone Opportunity Zone for the proposed site of that ethane cracker, so the private sector producers who will greatly benefit from an increased customer base and a shorter supply chain should also do their part." Rep. White said his measure would provide $66 million annually over 25 years. The surtax would be applied to all Marcellus Shale natural gas producers who currently pay the per-well fee under Act 13 of 2012. The tax credit would be available to any manufacturer that purchases natural gas containing ethane as raw material for production. To calculate the surtax, the allocated amount of $66 million would be divided by the number of producing wells. That sum would then be collected from each natural gas producer to which this applies. According to the Department of Environmental Protection, 5,593 wells have been spud since 2000 and are subject to the natural gas impact fee under Act 13. Based upon the calculation listed above, a surtax amount of $11,800.46 would be placed on each of those 5,593 wells. The effective tax rate on the production of natural gas under Act 13 is about 1 percent; the added

surtax would keep that overall effective rate below 1.25 percent. "We should not be socializing costs while privatizing profits," Rep. White added. "Pennsylvanians need to know there is a real alternative that promotes job creation and avoids passing $1.6 billion in crushing debt on future generations. House Bill 2493 is a true public-private partnership and common-sense approach to supporting job creation while being fiscally responsible." June Environmental Synopsis Available From Joint Conservation Committee The June issue of the Environmental Synopsis newsletter is now available from the Joint Air and Water Pollution Control and Conservation Committee. The topics in this issue include: Pittsburgh Science & Engineering Ambassador Program, greenhouse gas credit marketplace, emissions from older coal-fired power plant, natural gas and renewable energy and more. Rep. Scott Hutchinson (R-Venango) serves as Chair of the Joint Conservation Committee.

News From Around The State

Ralph W. Abele Historical Marker To Be Unveiled July 17 Ralph W. Abele, the late Executive Director of the PA Fish and Boat Commission, will be honored with a State Historic Marker from the PA Historical and Museum Commission on July 17 at 2:00 p.m. at the Commission headquarters building at 1601 Elmerton Ave. in Harrisburg. The unveiling of the marker is sponsored by PHMC, the Commission and the Ralph W. Abele Conservation Scholarship Fund. Throughout his life, Ralph Abele led, inspired, encouraged, motivated, supported and commanded the fight to save our natural environment. He believed strong in the right of everyone to clean air, pure water and the preservation of the natural, scenic, historic and aesthetic values of the environment. As an uncommon leader of the Commonwealth and a champion for living creatures, his motto was Do Your Duty And Fear No One! For more information on his life and accomplishments, visit the Ralph W. Abele webpage. Wildlands Conservancy Recognizes 2012 Friends Of The Lehigh River The recipients of Wildlands Conservancys 2012 Friend of the Lehigh River Awards are: Mario Spangoletti, member of the Whitehall Township Environmental Advisory Council; Tom Shive, retired Central Catholic High School teacher and champion for the schools EnviroMentor program; and the Hokendauqua Chapter #535 of Trout Unlimited. The awards will be presented during the closing ceremony of Wildlands Conservancys 16th Annual Lehigh River Sojourn at the Pool Wildlife Sanctuary on June 25th beginning at 6 p.m. (award presentation at 7:00 p.m.) The Friend of the Lehigh River award is Wildlands Conservancys annual acknowledgment of individuals, groups, organizations, businesses, institutions, or governmental entities that deserve to be recognized for their commitment to preserving, protecting, restoring,

and enhancing the Lehigh River and its watershed. The Lehigh River is one of the regions most precious natural resources. The work of protecting and maintaining it as a viable home for plants and wildlife, as well as a destination for respite and adventure, cannot be accomplished alone. This award celebrates individuals and organizations who proactively act and speak on behalf of the river to inspire its sustainability for future generations, says Christopher Kocher, president of Wildlands Conservancy. Heres more on the award winners-Mario Spangoletti: Longtime volunteer of Wildlands Conservancy and a member of the Whitehall Township Environment Advisory Council, Spangoletti is a tireless steward of the environment. He is often found streamside, where over the years he has planted thousands of plants and been actively involved in countless restoration projects. Past EAC member Dale Ott credits Spangoletti with singlehandedly feeding the birds at the Whitehall Parkway observation station. His caretaking also extends to the maintenance of the bluebird boxes and the rehabilitation of the Townships barn along Chestnut Street. Notable, too, is his dedication to the Townships annual recycling drive and his stream work with the Little Lehigh and Hokendauqua chapters of Trout Unlimited. Tom Shive: Shive is a retired as Central Catholic High School (CCHS) teacher who has anything but retired from educating students about nature in their neighborhoods, most especially those living in urban areas. He has been instrumental in bringing to life Wildlands Conservancys EnviroMentor program that, too, engages elementary children at Sacred Heart Regional School. Shive doubles as CCHSs Conservation Club leader. In this role, hes involved student members in annual clean-ups of the Jordan Creek, the installation of bird houses and the planting of riparian, or water-loving, plants to support soil conservation. Shive is also an active member of the Jordan Heights Green Space committee, and he has embraced Wildlands Conservancys proposed Jordan Creek Greenway & Trail, a plan to physically connect five existing township-, city- and county-owned parks and recreation sites, from Jordan Meadows Park in Allentown to the Trexler Nature Preserve. The first 1.27-segment opened in December 2011, and as efforts continue, Shive will undoubtedly celebrate having more room for young minds to grow. Hokendauqua Chapter #535 of Trout Unlimited: Since their first charter 25 years ago, the Hokendauqua Chapter of Trout Unlimited has been devoted to local natural resource protection, and moreover, connecting the community with nature through education. Additionally, the Chapter models the determination and dexterity needed to nurture partnerships with businesses and individuals and obtain grants, all for the improvement of their tributary to the Lehigh River. The Chapter has a history of fulfilling numerous restoration projects. Their most recent effort focused on stream bank restoration in Northampton Borough and at the historic Kreidersville Covered Bridge area. In tandem with hands-on projects like this, the Chapter maintains a number of community education programs. These include: sponsorship of Trout in the Classroom at Catasauqua High School, assisting youth field days, fly fishing instruction at the Women-in-the-Outdoors event, equipment and instructional support for Casting for Recovery, a breast cancer survivors program, and Project Healing Waters, an activity for wounded veterans, and streamside-

education for Cub and Boy Scouts and local schools. A new endeavor with the City of Allentown Parks and Recreation Department offers field instruction on aquatic insects and fishing instruction. PennVEST, DEP Announce Results Of Nutrient Credit Trading Auction The PA Infrastructure Investment Authority and the Department of Environmental Protection, along with financial information services company Markit, Monday reported the results of the second forward auction of 2012 for nutrient credits in Pennsylvanias Chesapeake Bay watershed. A forward auction means that the certified credits sold on June 13 will be delivered later and applied to the 2012-15 compliance years. The auction affords wastewater treatment plants and other regulated entities the opportunity to purchase credits to meet their nitrogen and phosphorus discharge limits for these compliance years. This auction continues PennVESTs and DEPs commitment to help Pennsylvania meet its goal to reduce nutrient discharge in the Chesapeake Bay watershed in a cost-effective way, PennVEST executive director Paul Marchetti said. The public-private partnership used in the auction process will serve the state well in its efforts to achieve this goal. PennVEST hosts the auctions to encourage the trading of nutrient credits in the Susquehanna and Potomac watersheds. DEPs nutrient credit trading program offers a costeffective way for facilities that are subject to nitrogen and phosphorus limits to meet those limits by working with other facilities, non-point sources or both. For its auctions, PennVEST is supported by Markit, which provides the platform for enrollment and eligibility, auctions and registry services. Markit provides operations and infrastructure services to environmental programs worldwide. Credits representing the annual removal of 20,000 pounds of nitrogen from the Susquehanna River watershed and the Chesapeake Bay during 2012 were sold for $3.75 per credit. Credits representing the removal of 3,000 pounds of nitrogen in the Susquehanna River watershed during 2014 were sold for $3.54 per credit. PennVEST encourages the trading of nutrient credits by acting as a clearinghouse in the credit market, entering into contracts to buy and sell credits. By participating in these transactions, PennVEST provides market certainty to buyers and sellers, which encourages greater activity in the market. Hosting periodic auctions is one way for PennVEST to facilitate these nutrient credit trades. PennVESTs next forward auction is September 12. The enrollment period for that auction is expected to begin July 5. For more information, visit PennVESTs Nutrient Credit Trading webpage or call 717783-4493. Penn State Extension Offers Water Resource Fact Sheets The Penn State Extension Water Resources Team has recently released two new water related fact sheets. The fact sheets are quick reference guides to help Private Water Supply Owners understand water supply problems and common water testing parameters in Pennsylvania. The first fact sheet is entitled Common Water Test Parameters Related to Natural Gas Drilling and is designed to assist people in interpreting their pre-gas well drilling water test

reports. Many Pennsylvania residents are concerned about gas well drilling and are testing their private water supplies, but are having difficulty in understanding or reading their water test results. This fact sheet describes the general parameters being tested in these gas related water tests and shares what typical concentration levels were from past research projects conducted in Pennsylvania. An Acceptable Level Column provides the Environmental Protection Agencies drinking water standard for that parameter, if it exists. The second fact sheet is entitled Common Drinking Water Problems and Solutions and is designed to assist people in identifying contaminant problems they may be having with their private water supply. The fact sheet describes the common symptoms of problem contaminates found in private water wells or springs in Pennsylvania. It suggests the common causes for the described symptoms and then recommends a possible solution such as specific water treatment equipment. It is a general guide to assist homeowners in working through their private drinking water concerns. These fact sheets can be found on the Penn State Extension Water Resources webpage. (Written By: James A. Clark, Extension Educator, Cameron/Elk/Jefferson/McKean/Potter District, reprinted from the Penn State Extension Watershed Winds newsletter.) CREP Landowner Workshop Set For July 12 In Dauphin County The Capital Resource Conservation & Development Area Council and the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay will hold a field day July 12 in Lykens, Dauphin County focused on practical information to help landowners manage riparian forest buffers. The agenda includes landowner information sharing, practical management suggestions for riparian forest buffers, and noxious weed control in CREP -- Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program-- areas. Landowners participating in or considering enrolling their land in CREP are encouraged to attend. These field days are designed to provide landowners with the opportunity to view successful CREP riparian forest buffer projects. Rick Kepner, USDA-NRCS (Natural Resource Conservation Service) District Conservationist in Dauphin County will provide a CREP program update and address questions about program re-enrollment. Ashley Spotts, Watershed Specialist with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, will lead a walking tour and address buffer development questions. Rebecca Wertime, Program Coordinator for the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay will address maintenance issues. There will be multiple opportunities for participants to ask questions of land management experts and learn about noxious weed control techniques. This free session will take place rain or shine from 8:30 AM until 11:00 AM. Registration is requested by July 9 and directions to the event site with agenda details will be provided in registration confirmation. Funding support has been provided by the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service. For more information or to register, contact Cheryl Burns at Capital RC&D at 717.241.4361 or via email to: cburns@capitalrcd.org. Online registration and a list of upcoming

events are available. DEP Invites Comments On Panther Creek TMDL In Carbon, Schuylkill Counties The Department of Environmental Protection published notice of an opportunity to comment on a proposed Total Maximum Daily Load plan for Panther Creek in Carbon and Schuylkill counties. (PA Bulletin page 3690) A copy of the plan is available on DEP TMDL webpage. Source Water Protection Workshop On June 26 In Lawrence County The Water Resources Education Network and its partners will hold a Source Water Protection Workshop on June 26 starting at 6:00 p.m. at the Bessemer Fire Hall, Bessemer, Pa. The workshop will address these and other issues--- How land use impacts drinking water quality and treatment costs; -- How communities can assess and protect areas surrounding drinking water sources; -- Source water protection concepts and resources; -- Contamination prevention and education efforts; -- DEPs Source Water Protection Technical Assistance; -- Technical and financial resources available; and -- Examples of drinking water protection programs. Partners supporting the workshop include: Department of Environmental Protection, PA Rural Water Association, The League of Women Voters of Lawrence County, F. D. Campbell Memorial Library and "The Straight Scoop on Shale Drilling" initiative of the LWVPA Citizen Education Fund. For more information, download the Workshop flyer or contact Julie Kollar, WREN, 267468-0555 or send email to: juliekwren@verizon.net. DEP Citizens Advisory Council Comments On DEP Longwall Mining Impact Report On June 6, the Citizens Advisory Council to DEP issued comments on the 2003-2008 5-year report on the effects of subsidence resulting from longwall coal mining on surface structures and water resources required by Act 54 of 1994. Here are some of the issues the CAC highlighted in its cover letter--- There has been steady improvement in the quality and quantity of the data collected with each successive report. The latest report continues this positive trend and DEP and the authors are to be commended. -- We note, however, that the report emphasizes data gathering rather than data analysis. In order to be in compliance with Section 18.1 (b) of Act 54, DEP needs to analyze the data and determine the total effects of deep mining subsidence on surface structures and features, and on water resources, including sources of public and private water supplies. Future reports should go beyond data gathering and provide a review and at least a preliminary analysis of these issues. -- (A review of the report) raises numerous concerns about the impacts of deep mining and response times over the reporting period that need to be responded to and addressed. For example, their analysis contends that, according to the latest 5-year report, less than 10 percent of damaged homes and wells actually are being repaired. If correct, these figures alone demonstrate

a loack of balance between resource and surface owners. -- Each of the succeeding 5-year reports should address issues of cumulative impacts and trends including: What are the cumulative impacts in each category over all four reporting periods? What trends can be discerned in the extent of damage and impacts in each category? What trends can be discerned in resolution times over the whole time period? -- Regarding water impacts, the focus in the reports has been on water supplies and stream segments, rather than an assessment of cumulative hydrological impacts. Do reported claims capture impacts to natural resources, e.g. losing a spring vs. damage to aquifer, as well as consider the duration of impact, temporary vs. long term? Report Findings The Act 54 report complied by Schmid and Company for DEP covers the period of August 21, 2003 to August 20, 2008 and had these major findings--- Mining Activity: Fifty underground coal mines were active during the reports assessment period undermining 38,256 acres of land. Thirty-six of the mines are room-and-pillar, eight are longwall, and six are room-and-pillar mines with pillar recovery. -- Structures Affected: The report found 456 structures and 108 lands with reported effects occurred from a total 3,735 inventoried structures and 3,587 properties. That is 12 percent of the total structures and 3 percent of the total properties undermined. -- Resolution of Impacts to Structures: The eight longwall mines operating in Greene and Washington counties account for almost 94 percent of the structure and 89 percent of land reported effects. The average number of days to resolved structure reported effects was 207 days and for land 246. Compared with other feature types, i.e. water supplies, streams, and wetlands, this is a relative low time frame. -- Water Resource Impacts: 2,789 wells, spring, and ponds were undermined with 683 reported effects accounting for 24.5 percent of the total water supplies undermined. Water supplies have proven a challenge but they are being resolved. 234 reported effects or 34 percent of the cases were still awaiting a final resolution. The average number of days to resolve water supplies reported effects was 321, a considerable increase compared to structures and land reported effects. Resolution strategies for recovering water supplies are often multi-step, especially when wells and springs are being replaced. -- Stream Segment Impacts: Fifty-five stream investigation reports occurred and 20 have been resolved. The average number of days to resolve stream impacts was 688, nearly double the time required to resolve water supply reported effects. A copy of the complete report is available online. A copy of the CACs comments are also available online. Register Now: PA Abandoned Mine Reclamation Conference August 2-4 The Eastern and Western Pennsylvania Coalitions for Abandoned Mine Reclamation invite you to register now for the 14th Annual PA Abandoned Mine Reclamation Conference, August 2-4 at the Ramada Inn and Conference Center, State College, PA. With the theme, "new frontiers in reclamation", this year's conference intends to explore innovative ways to achieve abandoned mine reclamation in Pennsylvania. Times are changing and we've entered a new frontier in reclamation. Exciting opportunities abound with new and emerging treatment technologies in addition to partnership opportunities with the shale gas industry in utilizing abandoned mine drainage and mine pool

water. The conference will provide a forum for the dissemination of information and encourage discussions between industry, watershed groups, and decision makers that can help to further innovations in public policy, abandoned mine reclamation, remediation, and restoration. Book your room before July 5 and mention the PA AMR Conference to take advantage of the special room rates. To register and for more information, visit the Conference webpage. SRBC Extends Public Comment Period On Low Flow Protection Policy The Susquehanna River Basin Commission published a notice June 23 extending the comment period on its proposed low flow protection policy to July 16. The proposed Policy was developed over the past yearbased on scientific advances in ecosystem flow protectionto improve low flow protection standards associated with approved water withdrawals. For more information, visit SRBCs Low Flow Protection Policy webpage. DEP Publishes Advance Final Rule Setting Ultra Low Sulfur Fuel Oil Standards The Department of Environmental Protection published notice of an advanced final rule for comment setting standards for ultra low sulfur fuel oil. The summary of the rule provided by DEP said the proposed rulemaking contained a sulfur limit of 15 parts per million (ppm) for No. 2 and lighter commercial fuel oil. The draft final rulemaking changes this limit to 500 ppm. The Department received a number of comments indicating that the 15 ppm limit was not necessary to reduce SO2 and PM2.5 emissions from heating oil and was not necessary for use in high efficiency boilers The proposed rulemaking contained a compliance date of May 1, 2012, for revised sulfur limits. The draft final rulemaking changes the compliance date for revised sulfur content limits to July 1, 2016. The actual text of the advanced final rule is available on DEPs website. Mayor Provides Greenworks Philadelphia Progress Report Mayor Michael A. Nutter and the Mayors Office of Sustainability released the Greenworks Philadelphia Update and 2012 Progress Report, marking the midway point in the plans goal for Philadelphia to be the greenest city in America by 2015. Of the 167 initiatives put forth in Greenworks, 38 initiatives are complete, and 110 are currently underway. For the first time, this years progress report features metrics for each of the plans measurable targets. Progress toward two thirds of the targets is on track, and two of the target goals, Targets 7 and 9, are exceeding expectations. Target 7 is to divert 70 percent of solid waste from landfill; the City has exceeded that and is now aiming higher. Target 9 was to provide Park and Recreation resources within 10 minutes of 75 percent of residents; the City accomplished that and now is aiming to provide walkable access to Park and Recreation Resources for all residents.

I am proud to say that Philadelphia has made significant progress in our goal to become Americas greenest city. I hope that other cities can learn from our experiences and build off of them, said Mayor Nutter. Philadelphia would not be where it is now without the many partners in the public and private sectors who want to see a cleaner, greener and healthier city. Katherine Gajewski and the Mayors Office of Sustainability have demonstrated strong leadership on this issue. Highlights on current progress include: -- A reduction of municipal energy use by 5 percent; -- A more than tripled rate for curbside residential recycling; -- Increased access to healthy, affordable food for more than 200,000 Philadelphians; -- 428 miles of bike lanes completed We are proud to share our progress in implementing the Greenworks Philadelphia plan, said Gajewski, Director of the Mayors Office of Sustainability. Equally important, however, is the process. With this report we strive to provide numbers and data along with insight into the experience and lessons learned along the way. Our success so far can be attributed to the many partners within and beyond city government who have embraced the Greenworks goals and are playing a leadership role in driving them forward. Some of the new initiatives include: -- Benchmarking large City facilities in order to evaluate City government energy consumption; -- Developing a climate adaptation plan that will address specific vulnerabilities and strategies to deal with climate change; and -- Conducting a regional clean economy survey every two years to track trends and outcomes in the clean economy. Mayor Nutter also announced that the City of Philadelphia in partnership with PhillyCarShare now has the nations largest publicly accessible fleet of American-made electric vehicles. The City of Philadelphia, through a grant received from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, supported the installation of 20 electric vehicle chargers throughout the city. These changes allowed Philly Car Share to add 20 Chevy Volts to its fleet and provide two chargers to the public. The new fleet of electric vehicles allows the more than 10,000 members of Philly Car Share, a division of Enterprise Holdings, access to cutting edge alternative fuel vehicles that are fun to drive and average 100 miles per gallon equivalent. The full Greenworks Philadelphia Update and 2012 Progress Report is available online. EPA Welcomes Philadelphia As Green Power Community Partner EPA Regional Administrator Shawn M. Garvin Wednesday welcomed the City of Philadelphia as a new member of EPAs national Green Power Communities initiative, showing that a major metropolitan area can reduce its carbon pollution, improve public health, and help expand the nations renewable energy supply. The announcement came during an event at Citizens Bank Park, where Garvin also praised the Philadelphia Phillies and other organizations whose efforts for a cleaner environment are helping Philadelphia achieve its clean energy goals. As EPAs largest Green Power Community, Philadelphia is among the elite local governments that have met or exceeded their pledges to our nations clean energy future by

purchasing green, renewable power, said Garvin. I commend Mayor Michael Nutter for his continuous pursuit of numerous, practical ways to make Philadelphia a model green city. As EPA Green Power Communities, Philadelphia and 33 other towns and cities across the U.S. collectively buy more than 4.2 billion kilowatt hours of green power annually, an amount that would otherwise produce carbon dioxide emissions from the conventional electricity of more than 367,000 average American homes. Green power is generated from renewable resources such as solar, wind, geothermal, biogas, and low-impact hydropower environmentally-preferable resources that produce no net increase of harmful greenhouse gas emissions. In 2006, Philadelphia joined EPAs Green Power Partnership, a launching pad for becoming a Green Power Community. As part of Philadelphias Greenworks plan, the city pledges that by 2015, 20 percent of the electricity used in Philadelphia will come from alternative energy sources. The citys municipal operations have already met this goal, using more than 127 million kilowatt-hours of green power, including generating solar electricity onsite at the city-owned Southeast Water Pollution Control facility. Last week, the Phillies announced its agreement to purchase 100 percent of its electricity usage from local wind and solar generation providers. Other major contributors to the citys green power purchase success include EPA Green Power Partners such as the Eagles organization, the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, Philadelphia University, the Academy of Natural Sciences, Yards Brewing Company, along with residents choosing green power. Philadelphia organizations and businesses, including members of the Philadelphia Green Power Community Collaborative are also actively committed to helping Philadelphia maintain its standing as a leading Green Power Community and increase its use of renewable energy. For more information, visit EPAs Green Power Communities webpage. NewsClips: Philadelphia Gets EPA Green Power Designation Philadelphia Leads In Green Power Energy Reports Required For Large Philly Buildings PROP Extends Deadline For 2012 Recycling Film Festival Entries Once again this year the Professional Recyclers of PA is sponsoring their Recycling Film Festival in conjunction with PROP's Annual Recycling and Composting Conference on July 2527 in Philadelphia. The deadline for entries has been extended to July 16. This year's first prize is $500 for the top-voted video. PROP is especially encouraging the production of videos not more than five minutes in length, describinghow recycling works for local businesses, residents, and schools that can be posted on community recycling webpages or social media sites, such as Facebook. Click Here for contest rules. Entries must be submitted on DVD format and sent to: Amy Schirf, Education Coordinator, Centre County Recycling & Refuse Authority, 253 Transfer Road, Bellefonte, PA 16823. If you have questions contact Amy by sending email to: amyschirf@uplink.net. Construction To Begin On Susquehanna-Roseland Power Line

Pre-construction activities for the Susquehanna-Roseland regional power line project will begin in the Scranton area in mid-July, PPL Electric Utilities said Wednesday with line construction expected to start later this year. Work generally will move west to east along the line route in Pennsylvania, in Luzerne, Lackawanna, Wayne, Pike and Monroe counties. Meanwhile, Public Service Electric & Gas Co. crews will be working later this summer on the New Jersey portion of the project. The line is expected to be in service in time to meet peak summer electricity demand in 2015. The Susquehanna-Roseland line will run from Berwick, Pa., to Roseland, N.J. The independent regional power grid operator, PJM Interconnection, ordered the new line to prevent overloads on other power lines. The project will create about 2,000 jobs during its three-year construction period. The line will have significant benefits for electric customers in Pennsylvania and the surrounding region. It will include a new substation in the Scranton area that will provide additional, direct improvements to the reliability of electric service for homes and businesses in that region. About 95 percent of the 145-mile route will follow the path of an existing power line, minimizing impacts on people and the environment. The new line is planned to cross the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Appalachian National Scenic Trail on the path of an existing 85-year-old power line that must be replaced because it is approaching the end of its useful life. The National Park Service is scheduled to complete its review of the project by October. The project also has been approved by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission and the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities. Pre-construction activities along the route in Pennsylvania will include removing trees and other vegetation from the right of way where necessary, and construction of access roads so construction crews can safely reach locations of the new poles. Later, crews will install foundations at pole locations, erect poles and string wires. "At PPL Electric Utilities, we are committed to completing this important project safely, and with as little effect on the day-to-day activities of area residents as possible," said David Bonenberger, the company's general manager-Transmission and Substations. "We thank everyone in advance for their patience during the temporary inconvenience of construction." Public Meeting The company will host an informational open house for property owners along the portion of the route where preconstruction work will begin from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. June 26, at the Newton Ransom Volunteer Fire Company, 1890 Newton Ransom Blvd., Clarks Summit, Pa. Property owners along the line route will be contacted in advance of construction work, and will be kept informed of progress. More information for property owners is available on the project website. NewsClip: Work On PPLs Suquehanna-Roseland Power Line To Begin Heritage Conservancy Recognizes Local Individuals, Groups Heritage Conservancy hosted its annual member appreciation and donor recognition event on June 14, at historic Aldie Mansion in Doylestown, Bucks County. Beautiful weather complimented the organizations Garden Party, which included a cocktail reception on the mansions terrace followed by an awards ceremony.

Over 150 of the Conservancys valued members, business members, and Board of Directors were in attendance, as well as special guests of members who were interested in learning more about the organization. As part of the event, the Conservancy presented its Heritage Partnership Awards to four local organizations and groups who have shown extraordinary commitment to conservation of our natural and historic heritage. The first award went to Mr. and Mrs. John H. Ruhle Jr. of Springfield Township. Because of their donation of over half of the market value of their 91 acre farms conservation easement to the Conservancy and Springfield Township, they were presented the 2012 Conservation Philanthropist Award. The second award went to Bushkill Township, which was one of the first municipalities in Northampton County to raise their own money for open space preservation. Bushkill Township received the 2012 Land Conservation Award for the tremendous strides they have made in the past five years in land preservation. The Conservancys third award was presented to Newtown Historical Association, which has been performing educational walking tours of historical sites in Newtown, PA with 5th grade students. Since the programs inception, more than 10,000 students have experienced this tour. The Conservancy recognized Newtown Historical Associations efforts of connecting kids with history with the 2012 Historic Preservation Award. The fourth and final award was given to the Quakertown Swamp Amphibian Rescue Partnership. Representatives from Richland and East Rockhill Townships, and from a group of dedicated volunteers (and amphibian enthusiasts) received the Conservancys 2012 Grassroots Partnership Award for the coordination and rescue of over 1,000 amphibian species in the Quakertown Swamp area during amphibian mating season. Its a pleasure to honor and recognize these groups and organizations whose work directly reflects our mission of preserving our natural and historic heritage, said Jeffrey Marshall, President of Heritage Conservancy. We are so appreciative of these award recipients for their proactive work of protecting our natural resources and connecting people to the land in our community. Presenting sponsor of the event was Fulton Bank. Other sponsors included Thomas K. Fischer, Quakertown National Bank, Langan Engineering & Environmental Services, Grim, Biehn & Thatcher, Curtin and Heefner, Brooks and Barber Tree Management, Davey Tree Experts, Bucks Country Gardens, Moore Cleaning, LLC, and George Nakashima Woodworker S.A. Hawk Mountain Receives Grant For Raptor Care Hawk Mountain Sanctuary, Kempton, Pa, has received a $6,866 grant from the Gloria M. Young Ornithological Fund of The Philadelphia Foundation to support the care and maintenance of its four resident live raptors: a red-tailed hawk, a screech owl, an American kestrel and a greathorned owl. While Hawk Mountain is famous as place to watch wild hawks soar during migration, the four captive raptors are used in education programs to teach visiting children and adults about birds of prey, their adaptations and the importance of raptor conservation. Each bird has suffered an injury and been rehabilitated, but the extent of its injuries prevents a successful return to the wild.

Our birds are now feathered ambassadors for education, and each one makes an immediate and profound impact on children of all ages, says Hawk Mountain President Jerry Regan. Caring for the birds is a daily necessity and a significant expense, so this grant will make a tremendous difference, he adds. Reminder: Pocono Forest & Waters Conservation Grant Apps Due July 15 Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Secretary Richard Allan Thursday reminded groups applications are due July 15 for the Pocono Forest and Waters Conservation Landscape Conservation Assistance Program. For 2012, up to $100,000 in grants will be available from the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, with a required one-to-one match. The maximum individual grant award offered to applicants is $20,000. The funds are provided through DCNR's Community Conservation Partnerships Program. "Through these grants, extending back to 2009, local communities have been able to better enhance their sense of place and expand their regional economies by capitalizing on natural resources," Allan said. "Mini-grants have helped encourage economic development in local communities by funding projects to build trails; conduct regional trail feasibility studies; hold outdoor festivals; develop promotional guides for local agriculture and forest products; and much more." The Pocono Forests and Waters initiative is among seven statewide conservation landscape programs overseen by DCNR to engage communities and local partners with state agencies and funding partners. The shared goal: conserve and protect regional natural resources. The Pocono Forests and Waters Mini-Grant Program was developed and is overseen by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council. The council is spearheading organizational efforts within the landscape, which covers two distinct areas in Pike, Monroe, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Wayne and Carbon counties. The landscape is noted for a rich and diverse past that includes early Colonial settlements along its rivers and valleys; industrial development and extractive uses; and outdoor leisure and vacation activities. "The mini-grant program is designed to connect Pocono area public lands -- its parks, forests, waterways and game lands -- to the local communities through partnerships promoting sound land-use planning, natural resource conservation, and heritage-, culturaland nature-based recreation," said Pocono Forest and Waters Coordinator Carol Hussa, with the Pennsylvania Environmental Council. "Projects that advance land conservation, trail and greenway connections, revitalizing communities and urban areas, and education and outreach are encouraged to apply." Grants ranging from $2,000 to $20,000 will be awarded to projects within the Pocono Forest and Waters Conservation Landscape that support and advance the initiative's goals and priority areas. Grants awards will be announced September 1 and projects must be completed by December 1, 2013. Since the mini-grant program began, $161,000 has been awarded with more than $390,000 in matching dollars from grantees. For more information, visit PECs Pocono Conservation Assistance Program webpage or

call Carol Hussa at 570-718-6507; or send email to: chussa@pecpa.org. Apply Now For State Wildlife Grants To Benefit Endangered Mussel Fish and Boat Commission Executive Director John Arway Friday announced an invitation for project applications to the State Wildlife Grant Program. These projects will help address conservation needs for a high-priority conservation project for a Pennsylvania endangered mussel, the Eastern Pearlshell. Project applications are due by July 31. The PFBC anticipates final selection of a project by mid-to-late August. We look forward to working with our conservation partners across the state to develop the best project for long-term conservation benefits to the Commonwealth, Arway said. This program provides us with a great opportunity to protect these animals, which are important indicators of environmental health. The federal dollars for this program are awarded to the PFBC from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service through the State Wildlife Grants Program. Awarding funds for any selected projects will be contingent upon availability of funds. For more information and an application packet, visit the State Wildlife Grants webpage. Projects must address the topic listed the PFBC SWG 2012 priority topics. PA Angler & Boater Magazine To Feature Limited-Edition Ned Smith Prints For the first time in its 81-year history, the Fish & Boat Commissions flagship periodical Pennsylvania Angler & Boater is providing a limited-edition series of fine art prints by acclaimed wildlife artist Ned Smith. The prints will feature Commonwealth fish species and be included in the magazine as part of its regular offering to readers. Starting with the July/August 2012 edition and proceeding through to the May/June 2013 edition, the PFBC will provide a series of six prints featuring American shad, largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike, bluegill and brook trout. The original drawings by Smith were first distributed as a special print portfolio by the PFBC in the early 1980s. PFBC Executive Director John A. Arway states, Given the limited exposure for this series of fish drawings decades ago, we saw this 2012 series release as an excellent opportunity to reveal them to a new generation of our valued readership. In addition, Arway says, Both Ned Smith and Pennsylvania Angler & Boater are synonymous with high quality, and we feel our readers deserve no less. Ned Smith began his distinguished art career by painting a cover for the January 1940 edition of Pennsylvania Angler, the forerunner of Pennsylvania Angler & Boater. His love of nature and for the Commonwealths fish species was evident in his paintings of game fish, as well as the countless hours that he spent fishing Pennsylvanias waters. From his personal journals through to his polished gems of artwork, Smiths observations, attention to detail, personal experiences and tremendous artistic talent proved to be a combination that produced fine art sought by manyfrom those who enjoy the outdoors to fine art gallery enthusiasts. "Many people aren't aware of the many ways that Ned Smith worked closely with the Fish and Boat Commission during his lifetime," said Stephen V. Quigley, executive director of the Ned Smith Center for Nature and Art. "The release of these prints in Pennsylvania Angler

& Boater will give readers an opportunity to learn more about Ned, and about the ways that the Center is working to sustain his legacy." This print series will truly be a limited edition. The quantities for these high-quality prints on heavyweight paper are being strictly limited to the quantities of magazine copies ordered by the Commission. Whether as a magazine subscriber or with a separate purchase of the editions, readers will be collecting a piece of Pennsylvanias angling heritage, as captured by one of the worlds most gifted wildlife artistsNed Smith. Anglers and non-anglers alike are encouraged to purchase a magazine subscription or a gift subscription for someone they know who is an admirer of Mr. Smiths artwork. Pricing to receive six 64-page editions per year is very affordable at $12 for one year and $30 for three years. Subscriptions can be easily ordered through the Commissions online store, The Outdoor Shop. Subscribers will have the satisfaction of ensuring their collection of this series while saving up to 44 percent off the magazine cover price. Corbett Creates Sunset Task Force To Review Existing Boards, Commissions On June 23 Gov. Corbett published notice of Executive Order 2012-09 issued on May 11 creating a Sunset Task Force to review existing boards and commissions created by executive order or statute under the control of the Governor to determine whether they still have value. The Order specifically excludes review of the Public Utility Commission, Fish and Boat and Game Commissions, the Environmental Hearing Board, Liquor Control Board, Gaming Control Board and other commissions and boards. Not excluded from Task Force review are these boards and commissions related to DEP: the Environmental Quality Board, Agricultural Advisory Board, Board of Coal Mine Safety, Coal and Clay Mine Subsidence Insurance Fund Board, Energy Advisory Board, Environmental Justice Advisory Board, Mining and Reclamation Advisory Board, Nutrient Management Advisory Board, the State Board for Certification of Water and Wastewater Systems Operators and the State Board for the Certification of Sewage Enforcement Officers. The new Task Force is expected to report back to the Governor no later than May 13, 2013. DEP Names Lynn Langer Southcentral Regional Director Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Mike Krancer Wednesday announced Lynn Langer has been named regional director of the agencys Southcentral office as of July 2. Langer has served since 2004 as the regions assistant director. Lynn has demonstrated throughout her career that she is a problem solver and that she knows this region thoroughly, Krancer said. Her work with a multitude of stakeholders over the years on a variety of matters, paired with her technical experience and people skills, make her uniquely qualified for this position. I am very excited to have her at the helm of our Southcentral regional office. Langer joined what was then called the Department of Environmental Resources in 1983. Her career has involved working to prevent pollution from mining activities as a biologist; drafting regulation and technical guidance as a policy specialist; assisting in launching the first

round of Growing Greener grants; working on developing the states first nutrient management regulations; and chairing a workgroup of state, local and federal stakeholders to develop one of the states water protection programs. In her nearly 28 years in public service, Langer has also served as chief of DEPs watershed protection section. Langer earned a bachelors degree in environmental biology from Juniata College and a masters degree in biology from Bucknell University. The director of DEPs Southcentral regional office is based in Harrisburg and manages the Waste Management, Air Quality, Environmental Cleanup and Brownfields, Clean Water, Safe Drinking Water, Waterways and Wetlands, Radiation Protection and Emergency Response programs for Adams, Bedford, Berks, Blair, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Mifflin, Perry, and York counties. DEP Names Marcus Kohl Northcentral Regional Director Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Mike Krancer Wednesday announced Marcus Kohl, director of DEPs Office of Program Integration, has been named regional director of the agencys Northcentral office effective July 2. Marcus has been tested under fire on some of the most critical and complex projects we have had since I have been here, Krancer said. He has proven his mettle as a facilitator and he has produced results. He has earned respect both inside and outside DEP, and I know that he will be a stellar leader for our Northcentral regional office. Kohl joined DEP in 2002 as an environmental advocate for the Southcentral regional office, serving as a liaison between the regulated community, citizens and the agency to ensure the public interest was at the forefront in regional permitting decisions. In 2006, he joined the Office of Water Management and assisted with coordinating the drafting and enforcement of regulations protecting the states water resources. Kohl served in that capacity until 2011, when he joined the Office of Programs, where he led efforts to improve consistency during oil and gas inspections for the three DEP regional offices tasked with overseeing the industry. The Office of Program Integration works to ensure regulatory consistency and uniformity across the state. Kohl earned a bachelors degree in speech and communication from Millersville University. The director of DEPs Northcentral regional office is based in Williamsport and manages the Waste Management, Air Quality, Environmental Cleanup and Brownfields, Clean Water, Safe Drinking Water, Waterways and Wetlands and Emergency Response programs for Bradford, Centre, Clearfield, Cameron, Clinton, Columbia, Lycoming, Montour, Northumberland, Potter, Snyder, Sullivan, Tioga and Union counties. DEP, DCNR Solicit Bids For Projects In Allegheny County, Philadelphia The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources published notice inviting bids on a park development project in Benjamin Rush State Park in Philadelphia. The Department of Environmental Protection published notice of an opportunity to bid on a mine reclamation project in Allegheny County.

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. June 29-- DEP Act 101 Recycling Implementation, Waste Planning Grants July 2-- DCNR Wild Resource Conservation Grants July 15-- Pocono Forest and Waters CLI Conservation Assistance Grants July 16-- Extended. PROP Recycling Film Festival July 31-- NEW. Fish & Boat Commission Wildlife Grants - Mussels July 31-- Keep PA Beautiful Fresh Paint Days PA Grants July 31-- DCNR Southcentral PA Natural Resource Protection Grants August 1-- PA Snowmobile Assn. Trail Improvement Grants August 24-- Foundation for PA Watershed Grants September 1-- Erie TreeVitalize Grants October 1-- DEP Recycling Performance Grants October 31-- PA Resources Council Lens On Litter Contest December 14-- EPA College Campus RainWorks Challenge -- Visit the DEP Grants and Loan Programs webpage for more ideas on how to get financial assistance for environmental projects.

Budget/Quick Clips
Here's a selection of NewClips on environmental topics from around the state-Budget Framework For $27.656 Billion Budget Reached Corbett Agrees To Restore Budget PA Has A Deal On Budget Any PA Budget Deal Remains Under Wraps State Budget Agreement Launches Other Negotiations Corbett, Lawmakers Reach Deal On $1.65 Billion Shell Tax Break Corbetts Tax Breaks For Shell Raises Questions About Jobs Support For Shell Tax Break In Monaca, Questions On Job Claims Corbett Launches Public Defense Of Shell Tax Credit Corbett Lines Up Shell Tax Credit Crew Shells $3.2 Billion Plant Estimated To Create 17,000 Jobs Big Test For Corbett Looms In Election, Tax Credit Are Tax Breaks Effective To Reel In Businesses? Shell Tax Credit Breaks Designed To Be Offset Op-Ed: Shell Tax Breaks Would Pay Off For PA Editorial: Corbetts Shell Tax Break Good Deal For State Other Auto Emissions Exemption Bill Advances In Senate Column: Follow Sewer Fund Stench In Harrisburg

Op-Ed: Make PA More Energy Efficient Work On PPLs Suquehanna-Roseland Power Line To Begin Smart Air Conditioners Will Be Cycled By Utilities Conservation Wouldnt Cut PPL Rate Hike PPLs Storm Recovery Charges Could Linger Philadelphia Gets EPA Green Power Designation Philadelphia Leads In Green Power Phillies to Host Electric Vehicle Tour Energy Reports Required For Large Philly Buildings Center Helps East Liberty Cut Energy Usage Letter: PAs Coal Industry, Jobs Must Be Protected PUC OKs Trainer Pipeline Transfer To Ease Sale To Delta EPA Essential Smart Growth Fixes For Rural Planning Williams May Scrap Conservation Ordinances DCNR Unveils Forestry Demonstration Trail In Dauphin County Philadelphia Park, Trail Opens Schuylkill River Access Bike Tour, Festival Raises Thousands For NE Trails Op-Ed: Someone Is Getting Zapped By Electric Deregulation Editorial: Philly Parks Need Funds To Avoid Shabbiness

Marcellus Shale NewsClips

Here are NewsClips on topics related to Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling--Shell Works To Bring Shale Well Methane Under Control DEP Investigating Potential Shell Methane Migration Methane Migration Probed In Tioga County At Shell Well Well Control Teams On Scene At Shell Well Site Corbett, Lawmakers Reach Deal On $1.65 Billion Shell Tax Break Corbetts Tax Breaks For Shell Raises Questions About Jobs Support For Shell Tax Break In Monaca, Questions On Job Claims Corbett Launches Public Defense Of Shell Tax Credit Corbett Lines Up Shell Tax Credit Crew Shells $3.2 Billion Plant Estimated To Create 17,000 Jobs Big Test For Corbett Looms In Election, Tax Credit Are Tax Breaks Effective To Reel In Businesses? Shell Tax Credit Breaks Designed To Be Offset Op-Ed: Shell Tax Breaks Would Pay Off For PA Editorial: Corbetts Shell Tax Break Good Deal For State Chesapeake Pays $1.6 Million To Bradford Families Gas Compressor Raises Air Quality Concerns Drilling Wont Threaten PA Parks Officials Say Corbett Asks For Automatic Tax Withholding From Royalty Payments Western PA Energy Boom Not Visibly Stifled Geologist: Data Lacking Linking Drilling Wastewater To Quakes Chesapeake Roadwork Projects In Bradford, Susquehanna, Sullivan

Shale: Williamsport Hotels Are Still Booked Solid Financial/Other States Ohio Governors Office Wont Say If They Are Wooing Shell Valerus Puts Emphasis On Shale Gas Safety NJ OKs Bill Banning Waste From Fracking

Flooding/Watershed NewsClips
Here are NewsClips on watershed topics from around the state-Flooding Tropical Storm Agnes Stirs Emotions 40 Years Later Tropical Storm Agnes Agnes: Two Floods, Same House Tropical Storm Agnes: Your Stories, Photos Tropical Storm Agnes Versus Lee Tropical Storm Agnes Photo Exhibit In Harrisburg Other Watershed NewsClips Ohio River Gets Annual Sweep Foundation For PA Watersheds Vying For National Award New Database Will Reveal Levels Of Contaminants In Wells Innovative Philadelphia Program Cleans Up Stormwater Op-Ed: 40 Years After Agnes, Flood Management Remains An Issue Rolling On The Monongahela River Speedwell Lake Sediment Control Gets New Push Casey Seeks Aid For State To Combat Rock Snot Susquehanna Smallmouth Bass In Trouble

Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits

The Department of Environmental Protection published notice of an advanced final rule for comment setting standards for ultra low sulfur fuel oil. The summary of the rule provided by DEP said the proposed rulemaking contained a sulfur limit of 15 parts per million (ppm) for No. 2 and lighter commercial fuel oil. The draft final rulemaking changes this limit to 500 ppm. The Department received a number of comments indicating that the 15 ppm limit was not necessary to reduce SO2 and PM2.5 emissions from heating oil and was not necessary for use in high efficiency boilers The proposed rulemaking contained a compliance date of May 1, 2012, for revised sulfur limits. The draft final rulemaking changes the compliance date for revised sulfur content limits to July 1, 2016. The actual text of the advanced final rule will be published on DEPs website. Pennsylvania Bulletin - June 23, 2012 Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage

Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage DEP Regulatory Agenda - DEP webpage

Technical Guidance & Permits

The Susquehanna River Basin Commission published notice extending the comment period on its proposed low flow protection policy to July 16. The proposed Policy was developed over the past yearbased on scientific advances in ecosystem flow protectionto improve low flow protection standards associated with approved water withdrawals. For more information, visit SRBCs Low Flow Protection Policy webpage. 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. June 25-- NEW. Senate Appropriations Committee meets to consider House Bill 728 (Barrar-RBucks) setting new standards for emergency shut-off values for facilities dispensing flammable liquids. Rules Room. Off the Floor. June 26-- NEW. Joint Legislative Budget and Finance Committee meets to consider release of a report on PAs LIHEAP Program. Hearing Room 3, North Office Building. 10:00. DEP Calendar of Events Note: The Environmental Education Workshop Calendar is no longer available from the PA Center for Environmental Education because funding for the Center was eliminated in the FY 2011-12 state budget. The PCEE website was also shutdown, but some content was moved to the PA Association of Environmental Educators' website. Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule

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

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