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General Assembly Coming Back - Falcons Are Missing!
The General Assembly will be in session again the week of June 14 and throughout June. There was little meaningful activity on the budget this week, other than moving potential vehicles into place.
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Renewable Portfolio Standard Costs Highlight of Senate, House Hearings
The cost to electric customers of setting a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requiring electric suppliers to have from 10 to 15 percent of their power generated from renewable sources and the definition of what is “renewable” were discussed this week a hearings by both the Senate and House Environmental Resources and Energy Committees.
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New Poll Shows Public Opposes Growing Greener II Fees
A statewide poll conducted by Public Opinion Strategies for the Pennsylvania Waste Industries Association (PWIA) shows that 71 percent oppose Gov. Rendell’s proposed environmental bond issue, once they understand it would ultimately be paid for by homeowners and businesses.
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Underground Storage Tank Fund May Come Up Short, May Raise Gas Prices
Another budget issue facing the General Assembly is the promised full repayment of monies to the Underground Storage Tank Indemnification Fund. If adequate repayment isn’t done in this coming year’s budget, it could result in an increase in gasoline prices.
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Senate Committee Moves Sewer/Water Funding Bill
The Senate Environmental Resources and Energy Committee reported out Senate Bill 1102 (Gordner-R-Columbia) that would implement the $250 million bond issue approved by voters. A one word technical amendment was made to the bill. Both Senators White and Musto said the bill would likely be amended.
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House Passes Continuation of Forestland Beautification Funding
The House this week passed House Bill 2227 sponsored by Rep. Rubley (R-Chester) that continues funding for the Forest Lands Beautification Program in DCNR that was due to expire this year. The legislation makes up to $300,000 available annually over ten years.
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House Passes Bill Allowing Counties to Fund Stormwater Management Facilities
The House this week passed House Bill 606, sponsored by Rep. Steil (R-Bucks) that would authorize four counties-- Allegheny, Bucks, Delaware and Montgomery-- to impose fees to help fund stormwater plan implementation and the construction of stormwater management facilities based on a comprehensive watershed stormwater management plans adopted by a county or jointly by municipalities. It would also reestablish a grant program in DEP to fund stormwater management planning efforts.
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Water Well Driller Certification Bill in Senate, House Considers Companion Bill
Sen. Greenleaf (R-Montgomery) introduced Senate Bill 1148 this week, a companion to Rep. Dailey’s House Bill 2619, that would require anyone seeking a water well drillers license from the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to pass one of the licensing exams offered by the National Groundwater Association.
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Environment Issues Forum Explores Environment – Health Links
This week the Joint Legislative Air Pollution Control and Conservation Committee chaired by Rep. Scott Hutchinson (R-Venango) hosted another in a series of Environmental Issues Forums, this time on the topic of the environment and health risks.
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Watershed Groups Recognized for Their AMD Efforts
Over 200 people attended the 6th Annual Statewide Conference on Abandoned Mine Reclamation this week in Indiana. Technical sessions drew the most attendance, with new and older watershed groups learning how they can better combat acid mine drainage in their areas.
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Groundwater Plan Released for Comment in Susquehanna Watershed
The Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) this week released for a 90-day public comment period a draft groundwater management plan for the Susquehanna basin.
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PA Geologist Receives National Public Service Award
This year the American Institute of Professional Geologists selected Margaret H. Dunn, PG,CPG as its recipient of the 2004 John T. Galey, Sr. Memorial Public Service Award.
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Habitat - Land Revitalization
Wildlife Habitat Council to Host Land Revitalization Conference
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Apply for Conservation Award
Nominees Wanted for Land Conservation Award
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PA Company Expands Production of Native Seeds & Plants
In response to the increasing demand for native species to restore wetlands, riparian areas and the expansion of the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP), Ernst Conservation Seeds, Meadville, PA, is continuing to expand their production of native grasses and forbs from Pennsylvania and the eastern U.S. for conservation use.
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Quick Clips
NewsClips from around the state on environmental topics
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EPA and Giant Food Team Up To Promote Children's Health, Safety
Beginning this month, Giant Food is promoting summer environmental health and safety awareness for children in all of its stores as part of a year-long campaign. Giant Food’s Kid’s Corner Activity Sheet will be devoted to teaching children about air quality and sun safety.
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Sun-Safety Efforts Protect Kids, Allentown School Wins EPA Award
Ten schools and organizations won EPA recognition this week for protecting children from the damaging effects of overexposure to the sun, including the Swan School in Allentown. The winners teach and promote sun-safe behaviors to prevent skin cancer, cataracts, and other adverse health effects.
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Student Award Winner
Erie Student First Winner of Sue Wiseman Scholarship
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School Donations
EPA Donates Computers to Morrisville Schools
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Efficient Cooling Systems Protect the Environment and Save Money
With the launch of ENERGY STAR’s “Cool Change” campaign this summer, EPA is encouraging Americans to save energy, money, and protect the environment by increasing the efficiency of home cooling systems.
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Watershed NewsClips
A sampling of NewsClips on watershed topics from across the state.
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Regulations
The latest on proposed and final regulations, agenda for upcoming Environmental Quality Board meeting and Independent Regulatory Review Commission activity.
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Technical Guidance & Permits
Final – Underground Storage of Explosives
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Calendar of Events
Upcoming workshops, conferences and meetings, plus links to other calendars
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Contributions Invited
Send your stories about new and changing state government programs and services to PA Environment Digest to: DHess@crisciassociates.com .
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04/22/24 - 117 New Stories - REAL Environmental & Conservation Leadership In PA: http://tinyurl.com/9bh4zbtr
