Pa Environment Digest Nov. 22, 2010
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Transcript of Pa Environment Digest Nov. 22, 2010
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PA Environment DigestAn Update On Environmental Issues In
PA
Edited By: David E. Hess, Crisci Associates
Winner 2009 PAEE Business Partner Of The Year Award
Harrisburg, Pa November 22, 2010
Nature Conservancy Study Reveals Marcellus Shale, Wind Energy Impacts In PA
Energy development in Pennsylvania over the next 20
years could transform the Commonwealths iconic forests
and impact several hundred thousand acres of key habitat
for songbirds, salamanders and trout, according to a new
study released this week by The Nature Conservancy.
The Nature Conservancy study reveals some of
Pennsylvania's most valuable ecological resources lie
squarely in the path of this development. (Photo: map of
existing and projected gas wells and wind turbines)
We can no longer protect nature without thinking about energy development, said Nels
Johnson, Deputy Director for The Nature Conservancys Pennsylvania Chapter and lead author
of the energy analysis.
With this report, energy developers, government agencies, and conservation groups will
now have information about where development is most likely to pose risks to Pennsylvaniasmost important natural areas and be able to take steps to avoid them.
About 3,500 acres of forest have been cleared and an estimated 8,500 additional acres of
habitat degraded because of the energy development that has spread through Pennsylvanias
forests in recent years, according to a Conservancy analysis of aerial photographs. Without
action to improve planning for energy development, many times that amount could be lost,
Johnson said.
If energy companies, regulators, and the conservation community dont take this
information into account, some of the special places that were working so hard to protect may
not long exist, Johnson said. Pennsylvanians have the tools to make a difference, but if we
dont act soon, there are going to be serious conflicts between energy and habitat conservation,
and conservation is likely to lose.The study considers the types of energy development most likely to alter Pennsylvanias
landscape natural gas from the Marcellus shale formation, wind energy, energy from wood
biomass and electric and gas transmission and uses innovative GIS mapping techniques to
analyze the impacts of existing development and to model the likely location and intensity of
future development. The report then documents the possible impacts on areas of high
conservation value.
http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=11953http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/pennsylvania/news/news3511.htmlhttp://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/pennsylvania/news/news3511.htmlhttp://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/pennsylvania/http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/pennsylvania/http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/pennsylvania/news/news3511.htmlhttp://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/pennsylvania/news/news3511.htmlhttp://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=11953 -
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The Conservancy released findings focused on Marcellus gas and wind energy:
-- About 1,800 Marcellus natural gas wells have already been drilled in Pennsylvania, and as
many as 60,000 more could be developed by 2030 if development trends continue.
-- By the end of this year, 500 wind turbines will be generating energy on Pennsylvanias
Allegheny Front and Appalachian ridges, and between 750 and 2,900 more could be built by
2030, depending on the states renewable energy goals.-- The cumulative impacts of both natural gas and wind could result in development in the
majority of Pennsylvania breeding habitat for the vulnerable black-throated blue warbler and in
most of the watersheds of the states remaining healthy brook trout streams.
-- About 40 percent of the most ecologically valuable large forest blocks in Pennsylvania as
identified by a recent study conducted by Conservancy scientists and partners could see
impacts from energy development.
In early 2011, The Nature Conservancy will release additional findings focused on wood
biomass and electric and gas transmission, but already, the cumulative impacts of new energy
development in Pennsylvania are alarmingly clear:
Because of the scale of Marcellus development, about 40 percent of the states largest
and most ecologically valuable forest areas in Pennsylvania could see serious impacts fromenergy development.
These impacts could include degradation of Pennsylvania breeding habitat for vulnerable species
such as northern goshawk, wood thrush and Northern flying squirrel, as well as development
within most of the watersheds of the states remaining healthy brook trout streams.
Wind energy development will not have the extensive footprint associated with the
Marcellus fields, but in certain local situations, wind development may impact critical habitats.
For every acre of development in Pennsylvanias forests, several additional acres of
habitat for plants and animals are lost to the noise, light, invasive species and other ecological
changes that can accompany remote developments. Forests can be fragmented by roads, gas well
pads and turbines, creating more of the forest edges where these impacts occur.That potential risk to habitat led Audubon Pennsylvania to provide data and staff time to
help The Nature Conservancy produce this report, said Audubon Executive Director Phil Wallis.
Pennsylvanias deep forests provide breeding habitat for many songbirds that depend
upon the health of Penns Woods, including the scarlet tanager, wood thrush and black-throated
blue warbler, Wallis said. This analysis gives us a glimpse of how substantial the loss of our
forests may be as a result of new energy development activities. We need to actively work to
maintain the resilience and health of our wild forests at the same time that we find new energy
solutions for our nation.
The states multi-million-dollar outdoor recreation and timber industries are also
dependent on the health of these forests, while impacts to headwater streams as a result of
development could extend many miles downstream. Healthy forests provide invaluableprotection for drinking water and keep our rivers safe for fishing, boating and swimming.
Every type of energy development has an impact on the land, said Bill Kunze,
Executive Director for The Nature Conservancys Pennsylvania Chapter. But with the new data
about cumulative impacts on nature that this analysis provides, energy companies will be able to
minimize impacts to important habitats as energy development advances.
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In the coming months, Nature Conservancy staff members will be sharing their findings
with industry leaders, policymakers, community organizations, and landowners with the intent of
collaborating to green Pennsylvanias energy future.
Its not too late, Kunze said. But we have to act now.
For more information, visit the TNC Pennsylvania Energy Equation webpage.
NewsClips: Study: Gas Drillers To Damage State's Iconic ForestsStudy: Energy Push Has Cost To Nature
PA Energy Development Could Alter Forest Blocks
Nature Conservancy Frets Over Energy Development In PA
Nature Conservancy Aims To Change Drilling Permit Process
DEP Chief: Support For Well Controls Doubted
Hanger Challenges Corbett On Natural Gas Drilling
Related Stories
Senate Panel Hears Testimony On Economic Impact Of Marcellus Shale
Penn State: Hunters May Be Surprised By Level Of Marcellus Shale Gas Activities
DEP: IRRC Unanimously OKs Tougher Drilling StandardsPA Chamber: DEP Secretary's Comments Exemplify Agency's Approach To Marcellus Shale
Corbett Agenda: Regulating The Natural Gas Industry
EQB Approves $7.8 Million More In Air Permit Fees, New DEP Fees Total $27.7 Million
The Environmental Quality Board this week approved a $7.8 million increase in Air Quality
permit fees and approved for public comment $8.1 million in Drinking Water permit fee
increases.
DEP finalized $27.7 million in fee increases over the last year to make up for dramatic
cuts to the agency's staff and General Fund budget over the last 8 years. Over $11 million in feeincreases have been proposed, but not finalized.
The fees finalized include:
-- Marcellus Shale Drilling Permits: $7,465,000 (from $935,000 to $8.4 million annually);
-- NPDES Water Quality Permits: $4,250,000 (from $750,000 to $5 million annually);
-- Chapter 102 Regulations: $6,665,000 (from $635,000 to $7.3 million annually);
-- Laboratory Certification: $1,550,000 (from $500,000 to $1.6 million annually);
-- Beneficial Use of Coal Ash: $75,000 annually;
-- Uniform Environmental Covenants: $82,250 annually; and
-- Air Quality Permits: $7.8 million (from $19,570,000 to $27,408,000 annually) - pending final
publication.
Among the proposed fees are:-- Drinking Water Permits: $8.1 million (from $250,000 to $8,385,000 annually);
-- Non-Coal Mining Permits: $2,475,000 (from $25,000 to $2,500,000 annually); and
-- Coal Surface Mining Permits: $350,000 (from $50,000 to $400,000 annually).
Spotlight
http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/pennsylvania/news/news3511.htmlhttp://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/business/s_709510.htmlhttp://www.mcall.com/news/nationworld/pennsylvania/mc-allentown-drilling-wind-20101115,0,97620.storyhttp://www.philly.com/inquirer/local/20101116_Pa__energy_development_could_alter_large_forest_blocks.htmlhttp://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101116/NEWS/11160317/-1/NEWShttp://www.alleghenyfront.org/story.html?storyid=201011161333450.393168http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/state/s_710073.htmlhttp://thedailyreview.com/news/hanger-challenges-corbett-on-natural-gas-drilling-1.1066177http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17364http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17365http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17366http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17367http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17368http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/environmental_quality_board/14005/eqb_meeting_schedule_2010/661796#11162010http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=16176http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=16176http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=16176http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=16176http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/environmental_quality_board/14005/eqb_meeting_schedule_2010/661796#11162010http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17368http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17367http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17366http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17365http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=17364http://thedailyreview.com/news/hanger-challenges-corbett-on-natural-gas-drilling-1.1066177http://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/news/state/s_710073.htmlhttp://www.alleghenyfront.org/story.html?storyid=201011161333450.393168http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20101116/NEWS/11160317/-1/NEWShttp://www.philly.com/inquirer/local/20101116_Pa__energy_development_could_alter_large_forest_blocks.htmlhttp://www.mcall.com/news/nationworld/pennsylvania/mc-allentown-drilling-wind-20101115,0,97620.storyhttp://www.pittsburghlive.com/x/pittsburghtrib/business/s_709510.htmlhttp://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/pennsylvania/news/news3511.html -
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Federal Court Ruling Threatens PA Watershed-Based Abandoned Mine Land Cleanup
By Amy G. Wolfe
Director, Eastern Abandoned Mine Program
Trout Unlimited
On November 8, 2010 the U.S. Court of Appeals forthe 4th Circuitupheld the decision by a lower court in WV Highlands
Conservancy and WV Rivers Coalition v. Randy C. Huffman,
Secretary, West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection
that ruled NPDES* permits are required, under the federal Clean
Water Act, for remediation projects at abandoned coal mine sites.
While the original suit was brought against the West
Virginia Department of Environmental Protection to force compliance with the Clean Water Act
for its bond forfeiture cleanup projects, the courts rulings have made no distinction between
abandoned mine drainage (AMD) that resulted from mining prior to the federal 1977 Surface
Mining Control and Reclamation Act (true abandoned mine sites where there is no legally
responsible party and where most of us focus our cleanup efforts) and AMD that resulted frommining after 1977 (usually referred to as bond forfeiture sites for which the state legally
assumes responsibility for cleanup using forfeited bond monies posted by the mining
companies).
Andy McAllister, Western PA Coalition for Abandoned Mine Reclamation, and Paul
Ziemkiewicz, West Virginia Water Research Institute, drafted a nice summary for the Eastern
Coal Regional Roundtable of the original lower courts decision released in January 2009,
commonly referred to as the Keeley Decision.
The Clean Water Act requires NPDES permits for all dischargers of point sources of
pollution, meaning that the discharger or operator of a passive or active treatment system (i.e.
entity responsible for the operation of a system) would be required to treat the water to certainwater quality standards as specified by the states designated use of the receiving water body or
stream.
To date, the PA Department of Environmental Protection has not required NPDES
permits for AMD treatment to address mine drainage from sites abandoned prior to 1977 because
it considers AMD as non-point sources of pollution and maintains that the entities implementing
the cleanup are Good Samaritans that are voluntarily cleaning up AMD they were not
responsible for creating in the first place.
Unfortunately, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit stated that the text of the
CWA (Clean Water Act), as well as the corresponding regulations issued by the Environmental
Protection Agency, confirm that the permit requirements apply to anyone who discharges
pollutants into the waters of the United States."Under the CWA, it does not matter that a mining company may have created the
conditions that call for reclamation. What matters is that an entity, private or public, is currently
discharging pollutants into the waters of the United States.
Exactly how the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the PA DEP will respond to
this, as it affects AMD remediation by volunteer groups, remains to be seen.
Two potential solutions that Trout Unlimited and its partners will be pursuing include
federal Good Samaritan legislation to limit the liability (under the CWA) for volunteer groups
http://pacer.ca4.uscourts.gov/opinion.pdf/091474.P.pdfhttp://pacer.ca4.uscourts.gov/opinion.pdf/091474.P.pdfhttp://www.wpcamr.org/http://wvwri.nrcce.wvu.edu/http://www.crisciassociates.com/Newsletter/docs/3/KeeleyDecisionSummary.dochttp://www.crisciassociates.com/Newsletter/docs/3/KeeleyDecisionSummary.dochttp://wvwri.nrcce.wvu.edu/http://www.wpcamr.org/http://pacer.ca4.uscourts.gov/opinion.pdf/091474.P.pdfhttp://pacer.ca4.uscourts.gov/opinion.pdf/091474.P.pdf -
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engaged in AMD remediation and a possible general NPDES permit specifically for AMD
remediation projects.
Amy Wolfe is Director of Trout Unlimiteds Eastern Abandoned Mine Program and she can be
contacted at 570-748-4901 or by sending email to: [email protected].
Video Blog: Amy Wolfe On How Watershed Groups Improve Water Quality
*The NPDES permits discussed here should not be confused with NPDES permits for
stormwater discharges associated with construction activities, which are required for earth
disturbance activities that affect one or more acres.
Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule
The Senate and House will not consider any more legislation this year. All legislation must be
reintroduced and start over in January.
Session Schedule
Here is the schedule of session days for 2011 as we have them so far--
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
January 4
Governor
New Governor takes office on January 18.
Calendars
The Senate and House will not consider any more legislation this year. All legislation must bereintroduced and start over in January.
Committees
There are no Committee meetings scheduled this week.
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Bills On Governor's Desk
The following bill was given final action by the General Assembly and is now on the Governor's
Desk for action--
Neighborhoods: House Bill 1609 (Freeman-D-Lehigh) amending the Municipalities PlanningCode further defining traditional neighborhood development.
Electronics Recycling: House Bill 708 (Ross-R-Chester) requiring recycling of certain
electronic products funded by industry fees - House concurs in Senate amendments and sends
bill to Governor 170-26. NewsClip: Bill To Mandate E-Waste Recycling Could Soon Be Law
Alternative Energy: House Bill 1394 (Houghton-D-Chester) relating to splitting off farm and
forest land under preferential assessment for alternative energy production - House concurs in
Senate amendments and sends bill to Governor 196-0.
"My proposal will help strengthen Pennsylvania's homegrown energy production by
providing a major boost to the wind and solar industries and thereby propelling us closer to
energy independence," Rep. Houghton said. "Like my bill to make Pennsylvania the 21st 'solar
access' state in the country, which currently awaits Senate action, this bill will help create green
jobs. Further, it will provide an additional revenue source to help farmers to continue to farm on
their land."
Senate/House Bills Moving
The following bills of interest saw action this week in the House and Senate--
House
Electronics Recycling: House Bill 708 (Ross-R-Chester) requiring recycling of certain
electronic products funded by industry fees - House concurs in Senate amendments and sends
bill to Governor 170-26. NewsClip: Bill To Mandate E-Waste Recycling Could Soon Be Law
Alternative Energy: House Bill 1394 (Houghton-D-Chester) relating to splitting off farm and
forest land under preferential assessment for alternative energy production - House concurs in
Senate amendments and sends bill to Governor 196-0.
"My proposal will help strengthen Pennsylvania's homegrown energy production by
providing a major boost to the wind and solar industries and thereby propelling us closer to
energy independence," Rep. Houghton said. "Like my bill to make Pennsylvania the 21st 'solar
access' state in the country, which currently awaits Senate action, this bill will help create green
jobs. Further, it will provide an additional revenue source to help farmers to continue to farm on
their land."
News From The Capitol
http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2009&sind=0&body=H&type=B&BN=1609http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2009&sind=0&body=H&type=B&BN=0708http://www.witf.org/news/regional-and-state/5574-bill-to-mandate-e-waste-recycling-could-soon-be-lawhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2009&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1394http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2009&sind=0&body=H&type=B&BN=0708http://www.witf.org/news/regional-and-state/5574-bill-to-mandate-e-waste-recycling-could-soon-be-lawhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2009&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1394http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2009&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1394http://www.witf.org/news/regional-and-state/5574-bill-to-mandate-e-waste-recycling-could-soon-be-lawhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2009&sind=0&body=H&type=B&BN=0708http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2009&sInd=0&body=H&type=B&bn=1394http://www.witf.org/news/regional-and-state/5574-bill-to-mandate-e-waste-recycling-could-soon-be-lawhttp://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2009&sind=0&body=H&type=B&BN=0708http://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/billinfo/billinfo.cfm?syear=2009&sind=0&body=H&type=B&BN=1609 -
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Power Shifts To West In General Assembly, Governor's Office
That earthquake you felt this week was the power shifting from East to West in the House and
Senate Caucus elections for Leadership. This on top of the election of a new Governor from
Pittsburgh.House Democrats
Rand-and-file House Democratspulled off the biggest change by unseating 20-year
Democratic Appropriations Chair Dwight Evans (D-Philadelphia) and replacing him with Rep.
Joe Markosek (D-Allegheny). Evans lost decisively on the second round of voting 50 to 39.
While Philadelphians held just two of the House Democratic Leadership spots this year--
Appropriations Chair and Caucus Chair-- and lost those spots for next year, Philadelphia
Democrats and Rep. Mike Gerber (D-Montgomery), who chaired the Caucus Campaign
Committee, ran for four of the other top Leadership posts and lost.
Former Rep. Rick Taylor (D-Montgomery) said of the anti-Philadelphia vote, "West
Virginia is flexing its muscles."
The full House Democratic Leadership includes:-- Minority Leader: Rep. Frank Dermody (D-Allegheny) elected unanimously;
-- Minority Whip: Mike Hanna (D-Clinton), was Frank Dermody;
-- Appropriations Chair: Joe Markosek (D-Allegheny), was Dwight Evans (D-Philadelphia);
-- Caucus Chair: Dan Frankel (D-Allegheny), was Mark Cohen (D-Philadelphia);
-- Caucus Secretary: Jennifer Mann (D-Lehigh) re-elected;
-- Caucus Administrator: Ron Buxton (D-Dauphin) elected unanimously; and
-- Policy Committee Chair: Mike Sturla (D-Lancaster) re-elected.
Senate Democrats
Less dramatic, but more exciting than any race the Republicans had, was the face-off for
Senate Democratic Leader. Sen. Jay Costa (D-Allegheny) beat Sen. Michael Stack (D-Philadelphia) replacing former Senate Democratic Leader Bob Mellow (D-Lackawanna).
But unlike House Democrats, Senate Democrats elected Philadelphians at three of the six
Leadership positions-- Appropriations Chair, Caucus Chair and Caucus Secretary positions.
The full Senate Democratic Leadership team includes:
-- Minority Whip: Sen. Michael O'Pake (D-Berks) - re-elected;
-- Appropriations Chair: Sen. Vincent Hughes (D-Philadelphia), succeeding Jay Costa;
-- Caucus Chair: Sen. Anthony Williams (D-Philadelphia), succeeding Vincent Hughes;
-- Caucus Secretary: Sen. Christine Tartaglione (D-Philadelphia);
-- Caucus Administrator: Sen. Lisa Boscola (D-Lehigh), succeeding Christine Tartaglione; and
-- Policy Committee Chair: Sen. Richard Kasunic (D-Somerset) - re-elected.
Senate RepublicansSenate Republicans had their own Leadership elections, but returned much of the same
team with the exception of Sen. Pat Browne (R-Lehigh) at the Majority Whip spot, taking the
place of indicted Republican Sen. Jane Orie (R-Allegheny).
Senate Republicans left two of their Leadership positions open-- Caucus Administrator,
formerly held by Sen. Browne, and Policy Committee Chair held now by Sen. Ted Erickson (R-
Delaware). They did not announce a timeline for filing those positions.
The Senate Republican Leadership roster includes:
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-- Majority Leader: Sen. Dominic Pileggi (R-Delaware) re-elected;
-- Majority Whip: Sen. Pat Browne (R-Lehigh), was Sen. Janie Orie (R-Allegheny);
-- Appropriations Chair: Sen. Jake Corman (R-Centre) re-elected;
-- Caucus Chair: Sen. Mike Waugh (R-York) re-elected;
-- Caucus Secretary: Sen. Bob Robbins (R-Mercer) re-elected;
-- Caucus Administrator: will be elected later; and-- Policy Committee Chair: will be elected later.
The full Senate unanimously elected Sen. Joe Scarnati (R-Jefferson) interim President
Pro Tempore of the Senate, its chief presiding officer.
House Republicans
And just to round out the discussion of East versus West, the House Republican
Leadership is also westward leaning--
-- House Speaker: Sam Smith (R-Jefferson);
-- Majority Leader: Mike Turzai (R-Allegheny);
-- Majority Whip: Stan Saylor (R-York);
-- Appropriations Chair: William Adolph (R-Delaware) - unopposed
-- Caucus Administrator: Richard Stevenson (R-Butler);-- Caucus Chair: Rep. Sandra Major (R-Susquehanna);
-- Caucus Secretary: Mike Vereb (R-Montgomery); and
-- Policy Committee Chair: David Reed (R-Indiana).
Click here for more on House Republicans.
Session Schedule/New Governor
The Senate and House return to session on January 4 to formally organize the new
2011-12 legislative session.
The new Governor takes the oath of office on January 18.
NewsClips: State Political Power Shifts West
Shift In House Leadership OutlookIn Harrisburg, Western PA May Be Gaining Power
Editorial: Harrisburg's Political Landscape Tilts West
Editorial: NE PA Has Less Political Clout
Editorial: Harrisburg's Political Landscape Tilts West
Dems Pick House Leaders
Shift In House Leadership Outlook
Rivals Strip Evans Of Leadership Post
Markosek Will Continue To Focus On Transportation Issues
Costa Elected Senate Minority Leader
Browne Gets Senate Post
Senate Panel Hears Testimony On Economic Impact Of Marcellus Shale
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The emergence of the gas drilling industry in Northeast Pennsylvania has
brought a huge magnitude of economic and workforce opportunities to the
area, according to those testifying at a public hearing held this week at
Penn College by the Senate Republican Policy Committee.
Sen. Gene Yaw (R-Lycoming) hosted the hearing on the impact of
Marcellus Shale drilling on employment opportunities. Other legislatorspresent at the hearing were Senators Committee Chairman Ted Erikson (R-
Delaware), John Gordner (R-Columbia), John Pippy (R-Allegheny) and
Representatives Garth Everett (R-Lycoming) and Matt Baker (R-Tioga).
It included panel discussions from individuals representing local businesses and
organizations, industry representatives and workforce development agencies.
"One thing is very clear this emerging industry has the potential to transform this region
and greatly enhance economic and job creation opportunities throughout Pennsylvania," Sen.
Yaw said. "One of the challenges we face is providing a consistent flow of skilled workers to
serve the needs of the industry. And this is something that government, educational institutions,
the industry and local organizations need to work together to accomplish."
Sen. Yaw said that in the past three years, approximately 65 to 85 new companies havelocated in Lycoming County as a direct result of the Marcellus Shale Play. It is estimated that
somewhere between 3,500 and 4,000 jobs have been created and many of those jobs are being
filled by Pennsylvanians. In addition, unemployment rates in the area have fallen at a time when
other areas are seeing unemployment grow.
Sen. Yaw added that the Pennsylvania Economy League recently estimated that each
direct job in the Pennsylvania oil and gas industry creates an additional 1.52 indirect and induced
jobs throughout the economy. The effect is what's being called the "Marcellus Multiplier," where
every dollar invested by gas production companies is creating nearly double the economic
output.
"Jobs are here and more are coming and so it is vital for state and local government toembrace the opportunity, work cooperatively with drillers and then watch our unemployment
rate drop even more," Sen. Yaw said. "We heard today that this is happening right now, thanks to
a high level of cooperation and commitment to this area and its people. We've gotten off to a
strong start thanks to strong coordination and the help of organizations like Penn College and our
work force development groups."
Representatives from the gas industry told the Senate panel that they have been well
received by the local community and are very pleased with the assistance they have received
from local governments and the various Chambers of Commerce.
While there has been an influx of workers, local hires are being made, and local
workforce training specific to natural gas has prepared people for jobs.
"This hearing was a great opportunity to hear more about how the gas industry isimpacting this area positively and look at how we can harness that potential," Sen. Yaw said.
"This will not just help in this area but throughout the state as drilling begins in other areas."
A video of the hearing and copies of testimony are available on the Senate Republican
Policy Committee webpage.
NewsClips: Panel OKs New Gas Drilling Safeguards
Gas Well Regulation Clears Final Hurdle
New State Drilling Regulations On The Way
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Tougher Gas Drilling Rules OK'd
Gas Drilling Did Not Impact Water Well Official Said
DEP Chief: Support For Well Controls Doubted
Hanger Challenges Corbett On Natural Gas Drilling
Related StoriesNature Conservancy Study Reveals Marcellus Shale, Wind Energy Impacts In PA
Penn State: Hunters May Be Surprised By Level Of Marcellus Shale Gas Activities
DEP: IRRC Unanimously OKs Tougher Drilling Standards
PA Chamber: DEP Secretary's Comments Exemplify Agency's Approach To Marcellus Shale
Corbett Agenda: Regulating The Natural Gas Industry
News From Around The State
Penn State: Hunters May Be Surprised By Level Of Marcellus Shale Gas Activities
Pennsylvania hunters venturing out this fall may be
surprised by the level of disturbance and activity on public
lands in the northcentral, northeastern and southwestern
regions of the state, according to a wildlife expert in Penn
State's College of Agricultural Sciences.
Natural-gas exploration and development associated
with the Marcellus Shale formation have increased
exponentially over the past year.
"As a hunter, you may be shocked by the level of natural-gas drilling and production
activity associated with Marcellus Shale on public lands in Pennsylvania," said Margaret
Brittingham, professor of wildlife resources and extension wildlife specialist."As of October 1, there were 4,510 active Marcellus permits. Compare this with October
1, 2009, when there were 1,970 permits."
Accompanying the drilling activity, hunters will find new or modified roads in many
areas and may encounter large volumes of truck traffic in areas where active drilling is occurring.
To accommodate hunters and reduce conflicts, Brittingham noted, the state Department
of Conservation and Natural Resources has vowed to limit heavy-truck traffic associated with
Marcellus activities in many areas on the three days of bear season (November 20, 22 and 23),
the opening two days of the statewide firearms deer-hunting season (November 29 and 30) and
the two Saturdays of deer season (December 4 and 11).
"Hunters also may come upon large open areas that are cleared or being cleared as well-
pad sites," she said. "The well pad is considered to be a restricted area that is not open to thepublic. The dividing line between the public forest and the restricted area is the native vegetation
line."
Brittingham recommends that hunters avoid these sites. "Individuals standing in the
native vegetation are considered to be on public ground; those standing on the well pad are in
restricted areas and fall under the rules and regulations of the company doing the drilling and
completion activities," she said.
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Brittingham pointed out that most active drilling locations have a security-guard shack
that houses individuals who greet, identify and limit people accessing the pad. This is mainly a
safety feature, she explained, because in the case of a major accident or event on the pad, the gas
companies want to keep members of the public from being injured.
"Individuals hunting within the pad boundaries may be asked for their names and purpose
for being there," she said. "And the well-pad locations where drilling and hydraulic-fracturingactivities are occurring will be posted with Safety Zone signs 150 yards from the edge of the pad.
"No hunting will be allowed within the safety zone. Where these activities are taking
place, there are workers temporarily living on the site 24 hours a day. Pads not subject to drilling
or production activities will not be posted."
Hunters should check out their favorite hunting sites ahead of time as access may be
restricted in areas surrounding active drilling operations, Brittingham advised. An updated list of
what roads are open for hunting season on state forest land can be found online.
A number of websites have information on where drilling is occurring. A map of current
Marcellus permits is available online. For the most up-to-date and accurate information, contact
the appropriate DCNRdistrict forest office.
NewsClips: Hunters Find Hotel Rooms Scarce Thanks To DrillingGas Driller Builds Dorms For Workers In Northern PA
DCNR Opening State Forest Roads For Game Hunting Seasons
Panel OKs New Gas Drilling Safeguards
Gas Well Regulation Clears Final Hurdle
New State Drilling Regulations On The Way
Tougher Gas Drilling Rules OK'd
Gas Drilling Did Not Impact Water Well Official Said
DEP Chief: Support For Well Controls Doubted
Hanger Challenges Corbett On Natural Gas Drilling
Photo: Chesapeake Bay Foundation,R.A.V.E. Project. Photo is of a Marcellus Shale natural
gas drilling site in Susquehanna County taken by Garth Lenz.
Related Stories
Nature Conservancy Study Reveals Marcellus Shale, Wind Energy Impacts In PA
Senate Panel Hears Testimony On Economic Impact Of Marcellus Shale
DEP: IRRC Unanimously OKs Tougher Drilling Standards
PA Chamber: DEP Secretary's Comments Exemplify Agency's Approach To Marcellus Shale
Corbett Agenda: Regulating The Natural Gas Industry
DEP: IRRC Unanimously OKs Tougher Drilling Standards
A set of new standards that will make natural gas wells safer were approved unanimously this
week by the Independent Regulatory Review Commission.
Department of Environmental Protection Secretary Hanger praised the IRRC vote, saying
the new regulations will, among other things, impose more stringent construction standards on
gas wells, making them less likely to allow natural gas to escape and contaminate water supplies
or cause safety concerns.
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The final-form regulations now go to the state Office of Attorney General for final review
and approval. The regulations were deemed approved by the House and Senate Environmental
Resources and Energy committees.
"When gas migrates from a poorly constructed gas well through the ground, it can
contaminate water supplies or build up to explosive levels in water wells or even homes," said
Secretary Hanger. "These strong rules will eliminate or significantly reduce the problem of gasmigration from poorly designed or constructed gas wells, as long as the rules are followed or
enforced."
Secretary Hanger added that the new rules also will require drillers to report production
and waste volumes electronically and to submit a detailed report of the chemicals they use in the
hydraulic fracturing or fracking process. In addition to these important provisions, operators
will be required to keep a list of emergency contact phone numbers at the well site and follow a
new set of instructions on what steps to take in the event of a gas migration incident.
"Pennsylvania can have economic progress without sacrificing environmental protection.
People should not be forced to choose between good-paying jobs or clean drinking water. That's
a false choice. Our community deserves and can have both," said Rep. Kerry Benninghoff (R-
Centre). "I think between the extreme positions of 'no drilling' and 'no regulation,' we can find acommonsense compromise that promotes job creation and protects our environment.
"These new rules are a step in the direction of increased protection for Pennsylvania
families. As more and more natural gas is harvested in Pennsylvania, we will have to continue to
balance our economic needs with our environmental responsibilities.
"We have an amazing opportunity to move toward energy independence and promote job
growth while ensuring local families have safe water supplies. We can and we need to do all
three."
The regulations also include provisions clarifying how and when blow-out prevention
equipment is to be installed and operated.
The Environmental Quality Board approved the regulations on a final vote of 15-1 inOctober, after receiving nearly 2,000 public comments during the comment period and a series of
five public hearings. A majority of the comments supported the new regulations.
In drafting the regulations, DEP also met with numerous oil and gas operators, industry
groups and environmental groups to discuss the regulations in detail.
The department used the public's input to make several important changes to the
regulations, which further improved the well-design requirements to prevent gas migration
incidents, including:
-- A provision that requires operators to have a pressure barrier plan to minimize well control
events;
-- A provision that requires operators to condition the wellbore to ensure an adequate bond
between the cement, casing and the formation;-- Provisions that require the use of centralizers to ensure casings are properly positioned in the
wellbore; and
-- A provision that improves the quality of the cement placed in the casing that protects fresh
groundwater.
Once all reviews and approvals are obtained, the regulations will go into effect upon
publication in the PA Bulletin.
NewsClips: Panel OKs New Gas Drilling Safeguards
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Gas Well Regulation Clears Final Hurdle
New State Drilling Regulations On The Way
Tougher Gas Drilling Rules OK'd
Gas Drilling Did Not Impact Water Well Official Said
DEP Chief: Support For Well Controls Doubted
Hanger Challenges Corbett On Natural Gas Drilling
Related Stories
Nature Conservancy Study Reveals Marcellus Shale, Wind Energy Impacts In PA
Senate Panel Hears Testimony On Economic Impact Of Marcellus Shale
Penn State: Hunters May Be Surprised By Level Of Marcellus Shale Gas Activities
PA Chamber: DEP Secretary's Comments Exemplify Agency's Approach To Marcellus Shale
Corbett Agenda: Regulating The Natural Gas Industry
PA Chamber: DEP Secretary's Comments Exemplify Agency's Approach To Marcellus
Shale
The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry this week called
Department of Environmental Protection Secretary John Hangers
recent comments on how Gov.-elect Tom Corbett will handle
regulation of the Marcellus Shale industry unfair and unnecessary.
In a Capitolwire (and a Tribune Review) article, Secretary
Hanger questioned when Corbett would annoy the industry or do
something to upset the industry.
The Tribune Review article quoted Secretary Hanger as saying,
"(The new regulations) must be enforced to do any good. There is a
concern about whetherGov.-elect Corbett will be a professionalwatchdog or, in his own words, a partner of the (drilling) industry. It's
important DEP be neither friend nor foe of this industry."
The Secretarys comments are all too typical of his often antagonistic approach to an
industry that holds tremendous economic potential for the Commonwealth, PA Chamber Vice
President Gene Barr said. DEPs role should never be to annoy job creators, but rather work
with them to develop commonsense regulations that balance environmental protection with
economic growth. The business community welcomes an administration that actually
understands the benefits to all parties of this thoughtful, cooperative approach to governing.
Kein Harley, a spokesperson for Gov.-elect Corbett told the Tribune Review, "It is rather
unbecoming of an outgoing Cabinet Secretary to appear like a sore loser. Gov.-elect Corbett has
called for some of the strictest environmental regulations on gas drilling of any state in thenation. It's unfortunate Secretary Hanger apparently never bothered to review those and instead
is still engaged in political rhetoric."
Barr said while Secretary Hanger claims in state and national interviews to welcome the
jobs the Marcellus Shale industry is generating, his rhetoric suggests otherwise.
Additionally, Barr said Secretary Hangers criticism of Corbetts opposition to a natural
gas severance tax the proposal that had been under consideration would have made
Pennsylvania among the highest, if not the highest, taxed Marcellus Shale state shows his
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inability to differentiate between revenue issues and environmental issues, and demonstrates the
secretarys misguided view that Pennsylvania can tax, litigate, mandate and regulate itself to
prosperity.
The business community is confident that Governor-elect Corbett will ensure
appropriate, commonsense regulation of the natural gas industry a goal the industry itself
supports as well as ensure its full growth potential, which will benefit Pennsylvanias localcommunities, individuals and families.
NewsClips: Panel OKs New Gas Drilling Safeguards
Gas Well Regulation Clears Final Hurdle
New State Drilling Regulations On The Way
Tougher Gas Drilling Rules OK'd
Gas Drilling Did Not Impact Water Well Official Said
DEP Chief: Support For Well Controls Doubted
Hanger Challenges Corbett On Natural Gas Drilling
Related Stories
Nature Conservancy Study Reveals Marcellus Shale, Wind Energy Impacts In PASenate Panel Hears Testimony On Economic Impact Of Marcellus Shale
Penn State: Hunters May Be Surprised By Level Of Marcellus Shale Gas Activities
DEP: IRRC Unanimously OKs Tougher Drilling Standards
Corbett Agenda: Regulating The Natural Gas Industry
Corbett Agenda
Regulating The Natural Gas Industry
As part of his campaign platform, Gov.-elect Tom Corbett laid out a seriesof commitments on protecting the environment, developing Pennsylvania's
energy resources, enhancing agriculture and promoting sportsmen's issues.
PA Environment Digestis taking a look at the commitments he
made on regulating the natural gas industry--
As part of his commitment to developing Pennsylvanias natural
gas fields responsibly and in an environmentally sound manner, Tom
Corbett supports strengthening existing regulations for drilling and
enacting new ones that will protect the commonwealths water and land. Most immediately, Tom
Corbett believes that we need to accomplish the following environmental goals:
-- Mandate Frac Chemical Disclosure. As Governor, Tom Corbett will call for mandatorydisclosure of ALL additives used in the hydraulic fracking process for each well site. This
mandate would include volumes, dilution factors and chemical characteristics.
-- Expand pre-drill water testing. Tom Corbett will mandate expanding the radius for pre-drill
water testing.
-- Increase the mandatory protections for water supplies. Tom Corbett supports legislation
that would require notification of potential drilling for all surface water owners and water
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purveyors that have water sources to be expanded from the current 1,000 feet to 2,500 feet. He
also would support legislation that would increase the current prohibition of drilling within 200
feet of an existing drinking water supply to 500 feet.
-- Support DEP regulatory changes to protect water supplies. Tom Corbett supports the
proposed DEP regulatory changes to Chapter 78 that would enhance the standards for
construction of natural gas wells and bring them in line with 21st century standards. Theseproposed regulations include changes such as: requiring the use of blow-out preventers at all
Marcellus wells; checking flow valves to ensure that gas is not escaping through the casing;
requiring casing and cementing plans to be submitted and approved by DEP; and supporting calls
for double walled cement casing through the deepest fresh water zone to help prevent gas
migration.
-- Institute well cap inspections. Tom Corbett will direct DEP to implement regulations
requiring daily inspection of well caps throughout Pennsylvania.
-- Increase bonding amounts. Tom Corbett will ensure that companies have adequate and
appropriate financial and insurance resources to protect Pennsylvanias environment. He
supports legislation to increase the mandatory amounts required to protect communities in the
event that a company walks away from its obligation to properly remediate a catastrophicsituation or goes bankrupt. Specifically, he would support increasing the bond amounts per well
and for blanket bonds that would be above the national averages.
-- Tougher penalties for violations. Tom Corbett will ensure that DEP properly trains
inspectors to ensure that inspections are conducted thoughtfully and thoroughly. In addition, he
will direct DEP to increase fines and penalties for any companies that violate drilling regulations.
-- Address issues related to gas migration. Gas migration is not a new issue with the collection
of natural gas. Gas migration has been a concern since the beginning of drilling more than 100
years ago. Tom Corbett will direct DEP to institute new and tougher regulations and laws that
will help to prevent the issues related to gas migration.
Direct interagency coordination of the Marcellus Shale. As highlighted in his energyplan, Tom Corbett will appoint and direct a new Energy Executive to ensure that energy policy is
coordinated among all state agencies that have a role and expertise within this broad issue.
-- Protect the groundwater, encourage recycling and coordinate permitting. As highlighted
in his energy plan, Tom Corbett will work with the General Assembly to enhance the
Commonwealths water protection regulations and create a Marcellus Shale Science Advisory
Board within DEP to help identify the best available and practical water recycling and treatment
technologies to protect ground and surface waters. He also will work with the General Assembly
to set aside a portion of the already existing permit fees and royalties paid by the natural gas
industry to the Commonwealth to support the development of new and improved wastewater
recycling technologies for use in the state.
To ensure that all issues related to the environmentally responsible and economicallysuccessful development of Pennsylvanias natural gas industry are coordinated, Tom Corbett will
create the Pennsylvania Marcellus Shale Commission. The bipartisan Commission will be
tasked with identifying specific legislative, regulatory and other initiatives to address
environmental concerns and resource development measures. Tom Corbett also will direct the
commission to propose community outreach, education programs and technical assistance
measures.
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The commission will be co-chaired by the Governor's Energy Executive and the
Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection and be comprised of key stakeholders
from Pennsylvania academia (specializing in mineral resources and environmental protection),
Marcellus Shale producers and gathering line companies, county and township governments,
environmental groups, Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission Chair and representatives of the
General Assembly (4 legislative caucuses). The commission will be directed to finalize itslegislative, regulatory, community and business recommendations within 180 days of its
creation.
The complete Environmental Policy statement from Gov.-elect Corbett is available
online.
NewsClips: Panel OKs New Gas Drilling Safeguards
Gas Well Regulation Clears Final Hurdle
New State Drilling Regulations On The Way
Tougher Gas Drilling Rules OK'd
Gas Drilling Did Not Impact Water Well Official Said
DEP Chief: Support For Well Controls DoubtedHanger Challenges Corbett On Natural Gas Drilling
Related Stories
Nature Conservancy Study Reveals Marcellus Shale, Wind Energy Impacts In PA
Senate Panel Hears Testimony On Economic Impact Of Marcellus Shale
Penn State: Hunters May Be Surprised By Level Of Marcellus Shale Gas Activities
DEP: IRRC Unanimously OKs Tougher Drilling Standards
PA Chamber: DEP Secretary's Comments Exemplify Agency's Approach To Marcellus Shale
50,000 Acres Of Marcellus Shale Lands Sold For Over $400 Million In Bradford
Newfield Exploration Company this week announced the signing of a purchase and sale
agreement with EOG Resources, Inc., for approximately 50,000 net acres in the Marcellus Shale.
Substantially all the acreage is located in Bradford County, Pennsylvania, in the Susquehanna
River Basin.
This transaction, valued at $405 million, will more than double Newfield's current
acreage position in the Marcellus Shale and will provide a deep inventory of future development
drilling locations. The closing is expected before year-end 2010.
NewsClips: Marcellus Driller Selling 50,000 Acres
Newfield Exploration Sells Gas Holdings In Bradford For $405 Million
Encana Backs Away From Gas Drilling In LuzerneEncana Pulls Operations Out Of Luzerne County
Williams Partners To Buy Some Cabot Marcellus Assets For $150 M
Williams Partners To Expand MidStream Presence In Marcellus Shale
DCNR Approves Four Watershed Conservation Plans, Adds To Rivers Registry
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Dr. Kreeger and others are in the process of expanding a fledgling mussel-restoration
effort with support from a number of funders. These include ConocoPhillips, the National Fish
and Wildlife Foundation, and the Pennsylvania Coastal Resources Management Program. She
believes it is now possible to increase mussel populations throughout the Delaware River Basin
by either breeding them in a hatchery or relocating adults during breeding season by releasing
them in targeted streams.She and her colleagues at The Academy of Natural Sciences have been working with
Cheyney University, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the U.S. Geological Survey to
experiment with different methods since 2007. They call their effort the Freshwater Mussel
Recovery Program.
The Partnership for the Delaware Estuary is restoring mussels for many reasons, not just the fact
that these animals are rare and endangered.
Dense beds of mussels filter pollutants and make conditions better for fish and other
aquatic life, improving water quality downstream in the estuary, said Jennifer Adkins, executive
director of the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary. We may have these beds of mussels to
thank for keeping certain types of pollution, like nutrients, low in this part of the river. This
helps make our waters more inviting for everyone.Restoring freshwater mussels wont be easy or fast, however. Although freshwater
mussels can help to boost water quality, they are also some of the most sensitive animals to
polluted water. Therefore, some area streams may not be able to sustain mussels until water
quality is further improved or riverside woodlands are replanted.
Also, freshwater mussels live to be up to 100 years old and are slow growing. But this
does not concern Dr. Kreeger, who said, Weve made tremendous strides in improving some
environmental conditions needed to support healthy ecosystems. That said, we know our job
wont be complete until we see the return of these long-lived sentinels of healthy waterways.
Of the seven species of native freshwater mussels discovered this past summer--
-- Two species were thought to be extinct in Pennsylvania and New Jersey: the alewife floater, orAnodonta implicata, and the tidewater mucket, or Leptodea ochracea;
-- Two species are considered critically-imperiled: the pond mussel, or Ligumia nasuta, and
yellow lampmussel, or Lampsilis cariosa;
-- Two species are considered vulnerable: the creeper, or Strophitus undulates, and the eastern
floater, or Pyganodon cataracta; and
-- One species is listed as common: the eastern elliptio, or Elliptio complanata.
Spotlight
Investor-Owned Water Utilities Lead The Way In Infrastructure Investments
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Aqua America, Inc. Chairman Nicholas DeBenedictis said this week
investor-owned water and wastewater companies like Aqua America are
leading the way in solving Americas water and wastewater utility
infrastructure needs.
Speaking before the National Association of Regulatory Utility
Commissioners at their annual conference in Atlanta, DeBenedictisreferred to the more than $300 million Aqua America is investing in
infrastructure this year and its plans to invest $1.5 billion over the next five
years.
Recent headlines in major national newspapers, supported by data
from the U.S. EPA and the American Society of Civil engineers, have provided great detail on
the gravity of the problem
God continues to give us the water for free, but hes left the cost of laying the pipe and building
the treatment facilities to us, said DeBenedictis. Unfortunately, in too many cases many of the
treatment facilities and much of the pipe are reaching or have passed the end of their useful life
and now is the time to invest in America. Water utilities are the most capital intensive of all the
utilities, having to invest more capital per-dollar of revenue earned than any of the utilitiesincluding electric, gas, telephone and cable.
Recent headlines in major national newspapers, supported by data from the U.S. EPA
and the American Society of Civil engineers, have provided great detail on the gravity of the
problem, said DeBenedictis.
DeBenedictis said that although the state of our nations drinking water and wastewater
systems is grim, its not all bad news. We have a great chance to make lemonade out of lemons
and thats what were doing at Aqua America.
When you look at what types of companies are actually putting their dollars and cents
into the U.S. economy, the large regulated utilities are right there leading the way. And if you
look further at how were investing those dollarsreplacing aged water mains and treatmentplants for more safe and reliable service to our customersyou will see why utilities like Aqua
America have played and will continue to play a key role in the solution to the restoration of our
nations water and wastewater infrastructure.
At Aqua America, we have used our strong balance sheet and credit ratings, which have
afforded us record low borrowing rates, to access the capital markets so we can rebuild our
nations water and wastewater systems. With the help of our shareholdersmany of whom are
attracted to our stock because of the dividendwe have virtually created our own economic
stimulus plan, which has had a positive impact on the economies of the areas we serve by
creating jobs and a sustainable water and wastewater infrastructure to support business.
DeBenedictis said that even after undertaking its major capital investment program, water
is still among the cheapest of the utilities at a cost of about a dollar per day. This cost efficiencyis important because pricing to pay for all this capital investment is permitted by various state
regulatory bodies, which understand the need for consistent investment in the nations water
infrastructure.
ClearWater Conservancy Offers Delicious Holiday Fundraising Idea
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ClearWater Conservancy, along with their friends at Tait Farm Foods, is pleased to offer the
community a wonderful gift giving opportunity this holiday season.
Tait Farm Foods has put together several delicious and affordable gift collections that
people can purchase for clients, colleagues, family, and friends that will directly benefit
ClearWater Conservancy.
Tait Farm products are made right on their farm, are all-natural, and are absolutelydelicious. This is a wonderful way to support natural resource conservation while also
supporting local agriculture and a local business.
Approximately 40 percent of each purchase will directly benefit ClearWater
Conservancy. Order forms can be found online. Orders are due by November 29.
Orders will be available for pick-up on Monday, December 13 at the ClearWater office at
2555 North Atherton Street. Shipping is also available through Tait Farm Foods at their regular
UPS Ground shipping rates.
Payment is due at the time of pick-up or may be arranged in advance by calling the
ClearWater office at 814-237-0400.
Holiday Gifts: New Fishing Licenses Go On Sale December 1
The holiday shopping season is quickly approaching and that means its time for anglers to get a
jump on the 2011 sporting season. Anglers can purchase a 2011 license beginning December 1,
which gives them a bonus month for free.
Fishing license vouchers also make great holiday gifts and stocking stuffers. Purchasing
vouchers for family members and friends is easy and convenient. Vouchers and licenses - can
be purchased online through the Fish and Boat Commissions Outdoor Shop.
A voucher may be redeemed at any of more than 900 issuing agents across the state.
We sell about 4,000 vouchers each year, said Bernie Matscavage, director of the
PFBCs Bureau of Administration, which oversees sales. They are easy to purchase and requireonly a method of payment. Its just like a gift certificate. The recipient then redeems the voucher
for a fishing license.
A resident annual fishing license can be purchased for $22.70, said Matscavage. Add in a
typical trout-salmon permit for $9.70 and an angler can enjoy more than a year of fishing for
$32.40 less than a typical dinner for two and about the price for two people to see one movie.
The PFBC also sells a number of angling and boating-related products through the
Outdoor Shop, including caps, books, posters and the flagship publication Angler & Boater
magazine. Customers can also renew boat registrations and purchase launch permits for un-
powered boats online.
Visit the Fish and Boat Commission's Outdoor Shop online.
Be A Friends Of The Wissahickon Trail Ambassador
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The Friends of the Wissahickon are looking for volunteers to work
as Trail Ambassadors in Wissahickon Valley Park. The application
deadline is January 7.
Trail Ambassadors are park volunteers who assist and
educate people in the park with anything from directions to safety
needs to park history, flora and fauna. (Photo: Ambassadors BruceWagner & Lynn Mather)
Ambassadors perform their service in the park and
participate in ongoing education. They become experts in the Wissahickon and provide a
valuable public service.
Trail Ambassadors share their knowledge by: interacting with and providing assistance to
park users while walking the trails; staffing information tables at FOW volunteer days and
events; leading walks in the Wissahickon Valley; and conducting surveys of park users and
wildlife.
Training sessions will be held on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8 p.m. from February 2
thru March 16. First Aid/CPR session will be held the morning of March 12. Applicants accepted
into the program are required to pay a $100 registration fee, sign a one-time volunteer releaseform, and obtain their criminal background check and child-abuse clearance.
Ambassadors must be FOW members or willing to join the organization. The number of
open positions is limited.
For more information, program requirements, and an online application form. Contact
FOW Volunteer Coordinator Kevin Groves with questions by sending email to: [email protected]
or call 215-247-0417 ext 105.
Corbett Agenda
Back To Basics At DEP, Incentives For Brownfields, Grayfields Redevelopment
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.
PA Environment Digestis taking a look at the commitments he
made on returning the Department of Environmental Protection back to
basics and incentives for brownfields and grayfields development--
Pennsylvanias environment is one of our most precious resources,
and Tom Corbett is committed to protecting it with strong stewardship,
direction and leadership. From helping to attract new businesses and jobs to Pennsylvania toproviding countless outdoor activities for citizens, our environment plays an integral part in
forging a new direction and a new era in Pennsylvania.
Throughout his career, Tom Corbett has worked aggressively to protect Pennsylvanias
environment. As a United States Attorney, he prosecuted the first municipality in the nation for
violations of the federal Clean Water Act for diverting raw sewage from its treatment plant and
discharging excessive levels of pollutants into our waterways. The municipalitys conviction
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resulted in a $50 million consent decree requiring an upgrade of treatment operations and nearly
a quarter of a million dollars being deposited into the Pennsylvania Clean Water Fund.
As Attorney General, Tom Corbett has prosecuted dozens of environmental offenses
which have resulted in significant penalties for individual and corporate polluters as well as
financial investments in environmental improvement projects. In 2006, he accomplished one of
his major campaign priorities from his initial run for the Office of Attorney General in 2004 hesuccessfully worked with the General Assembly to design tougher penalties for violations of
Pennsylvanias Clean Streams Law. The act brought Pennsylvanias law in line with federal law,
created a more significant deterrent to polluters and put a stop to the mentality of considering our
states environmental fines as a cost of doing business.
As Governor, Tom Corbett will continue his commitment to the environment by working
to protect our air, land and water and will enact policies that balance economic growth with
strong environmental stewardship. He will direct the Department of Environmental Protection to
serve as a partner with Pennsylvania businesses, communities and local governments through a
sound environmental protection program.
In his energy plan, Tom Corbett details how he will refocus the Department of
Environmental Protection back to its core mission of protecting the environment based on soundscience. At the heart of DEPs mission to protect Pennsylvanias air, water and land is an
obligation to assist Pennsylvanias regulated community our citizens, local governments and
job creators in complying with laws that protect our environment. Over the past few years,
DEP was directed to change its focus and move away from its core mission. Consequently, the
citizens and employers of Pennsylvania have been left underserved.
As Governor, Tom Corbett will direct DEP to return to its core mission of helping people
comply with Pennsylvania laws and regulations. He will achieve this goal through strong
leadership and management and a focus on six actions within the department to set the tone of
getting back to basics. The following is a highlight of the ideas from his energy plan.
-- Eliminate the permit backlog. Tom Corbett will eliminate the permit backlog and direct theSecretary of DEP to review each of the permits on file to determine if they are still active and
part of a job-creating economic development project.
-- Create the Permit Decision Guarantee Program. Tom Corbett will create a Permit
Decision Guarantee Program to ensure timely permit decisions based on clear deadlines for
each permit issued by the agency.
-- Establish a DEP Legacy Corps. Tom Corbett will establish a program to enlist retired DEP
senior managers, who have vast experience and knowledge in implementing DEPs programs, to
voluntarily mentor future DEP managers through a management trainee program.
-- Review DEP programs, regulations and guidance documents. Tom Corbett will direct the
DEP Secretary to initiate a review of all DEP programs and offices within the first three months
and issue a report outlining necessary legislative or regulatory changes as well as current staffingcapabilities.
-- Administer DEP programs with uniformity. Tom Corbett will direct the Secretary of DEP
to develop an initiative to ensure uniform administration of programs within the agency and
create a right of referral for applicants to the central office if they believe the field office is
administering a requirement inconsistently.
-- Create a PA Environmental Expert Loan Program. Tom Corbett will create the PA
Environmental Expert Loan Program, similar to the program created in the U.S. Environmental
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Protection Agency. Under the Program, DEP will create relationships with academic and other
institutions to allow individuals with expertise in pre-identified specialties to lend their skills to
DEP for a specified period of time.
-- Direct interagency coordination & public participation. Tom Corbett will make it a priority
to create pathways and break down barriers for more effective interagency communication to
learn how programs in multiple agencies impact the regulated community and how thoseprograms can be implemented more effectively.
-- Promote environmental education as a key to the future. Tom Corbett will work with DEP
to develop an education program to help businesses and local governments improve their
compliance rates, conservation efforts and energy efficiency opportunities.
Revitalizing Brownfield & Grayfield Properties
It is estimated that our vast industrial and mining heritage has left Pennsylvania with
some 100,000 to 120,000 acres of potentially prime real estate sitting vacant due to the potential
of environmental impacts that have been left unaddressed. Brownfields (former commercial and
industrial sites) and Grayfields (mine-scarred lands) are located in Pennsylvanias smallest towns
and most rural areas as well as our cities and urban areas.
Tom Corbett believes that revitalization of brownfield and grayfield properties is awinning proposition for both the environment and the economy. In addition to removing
environmental threats, a redeveloped brownfield or grayfield property often serves as the
keystone of a community's successful economic revitalization. As Governor, Tom Corbett will
work to harness these resources and grow economic development opportunities across the state.
-- Refocus and consolidate site remediation programs. Pennsylvania's ap