Pa Environment Digest Nov. 22, 2010

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 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 Commonwealth’s 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 Conservancy’s 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 Pennsylvania’s
most 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 Pennsylvania’s
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 don’t take this
information into account, some of the special places that we’re working so hard to protect may
not long exist,” Johnson said. “Pennsylvanians have the tools to make a difference, but if we
don’t 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 Pennsylvania’s
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.
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 Pennsylvania’s
Allegheny Front and Appalachian ridges, and between 750 and 2,900 more could be built by
2030, depending on the state’s 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 state’s 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 state’s largest
and most ecologically valuable forest areas in Pennsylvania could see serious impacts from
energy 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 state’s 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 Pennsylvania’s 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.
“Pennsylvania’s deep forests provide breeding habitat for many songbirds that depend
upon the health of Penn’s 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 state’s 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 invaluable
protection 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 Conservancy’s 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.”
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 Pennsylvania’s energy future.
“It’s 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 Forests
Study: 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 Standards
PA 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 fee
increases 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
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 for the 4th Circuit
upheld 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 from
mining 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 court’s 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 certain
water quality standards as specified by the state’s 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
engaged in AMD remediation and a possible “general” NPDES permit specifically for AMD
remediation projects.
Amy Wolfe is Director of Trout Unlimited’s Eastern Abandoned Mine Program and she can be
contacted at 570-748-4901 or by sending email to: awolfe@tu.org.
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 be
reintroduced and start over in January.
Committees
There are no Committee meetings scheduled this week.

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 Planning

Code 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

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 Democrats pulled 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 Republicans
Senate 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:
-- 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 Outlook
In 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

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 legislators
present 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 have
located 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 to
embrace 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 is
impacting 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
Tougher Gas Drilling Rules OK'd
Gas Drilling Did Not Impact Water Well Official Said
Related Stories
News From Around The State
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 the
public. 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.
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-fracturing
activities 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 DCNR district forest office.
NewsClips: Hunters Find Hotel Rooms Scarce Thanks To Drilling
Gas Driller Builds Dorms For Workers In Northern PA
DCNR Opening State Forest Roads For Game Hunting Seasons
Panel OKs New Gas Drilling Safeguards
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
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.
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 gas
migration 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 a
commonsense 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 in
October, 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.
Related Stories
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 Hanger’s
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 whether Gov.-elect Corbett will be a professional
watchdog or, in his own words, a partner of the (drilling) industry. It's
important DEP be neither friend nor foe of this industry."
“The Secretary’s 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. “DEP’s 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 the
nation. 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 Hanger’s criticism of Corbett’s 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
inability to differentiate between revenue issues and environmental issues, and demonstrates the
secretary’s 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 Pennsylvania’s local
communities, individuals and families.”
Related Stories
Corbett Agenda
Regulating The Natural Gas Industry
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 Digest is taking a look at the commitments he
made on regulating the natural gas industry--
As part of his commitment to developing Pennsylvania’s 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 commonwealth’s 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 mandatory
disclosure 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
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. These
proposed 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 Pennsylvania’s 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 catastrophic
situation 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 energy
plan, 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
Commonwealth’s 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 economically
successful development of Pennsylvania’s 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.
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 its
legislative, regulatory, community and business recommendations within 180 days of its
creation.
The complete Environmental Policy statement from Gov.-elect Corbett is available

online.
Related Stories
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 Luzerne
Encana 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

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources this week published notice it has
approved four Watershed Conservation Plans. They include--
-- Connoquenessing Creek: Allegheny, Beaver, Butler and Lawrence counties;
-- Little Neshaminy Creek: Montgomery and Bucks counties;
-- Paxton Creek: Dauphin County; and
-- Poquessing Creek: Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.
Each of the watersheds will now be placed on the Pennsylvania Rivers Conservation
Registry.
Freshwater Mussels Discovered In Urban Delaware River
Scientists working with the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary and The Academy of Natural
Sciences have made an important discovery in the Delaware River between Chester,
Pennsylvania and Trenton, New Jersey: beds of freshwater mussels.
This includes several uncommon species, two of which were previously believed to no
longer exist in both Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
“Freshwater mussels are very sensitive to a variety of problems, including pollution,
dams, water flows, loss of forests, and harvesting for their shells and as bait,” said Dr. Danielle
Kreeger, science director at the Partnership for the Delaware Estuary. “We have so few mussels
left in almost all of our streams in the area, so to find seven species living together in dense
communities right near Philadelphia was unexpected and cause for celebration.”
Freshwater mussels are the most imperiled of all plants and animals in North America.
Nearly three-quarters of the continent’s 300 species are in decline, and many are either extinct
or headed toward extinction.
In the Delaware River Basin, most of the one-dozen native species are classified as
reduced, threatened, or locally extinct. One of the basin’s species is considered endangered at
the federal level and others are listed as endangered at the state level. Water pollution and
degraded habitats are the most common reasons for these declines. That is why scientists are so
excited to find them in this stretch of the river.
One reason freshwater mussels may be doing better in the Delaware River compared to
surrounding tributaries is the fact that the Delaware is the longest free-flowing river east of the
Mississippi. Dams often block fish from swimming up river, and this can interrupt the
complicated breeding processes of freshwater mussels. Mussels rely upon fish to carry their
babies, or “larvae,” around, including upstream.
Whenever dams block these fish, they fail to deliver their payload of mussel larvae to
new areas where they can grow and thrive. Pennsylvania has more dams than any other state,
and many of these are located in streams throughout the Delaware Valley. The lone exception is
the Delaware River.
“Until this discovery, our surveys for freshwater mussels in southeastern Pennsylvania
during the past 10 years have painted a grim picture. Only one species seems to still be prevalent
in the area’s streams, and even that species is found in only a handful of locations anymore,” said
Roger Thomas, staff scientist at The Academy of Natural Sciences’ Patrick Center for
Environmental Research in Philadelphia. “These recently-discovered beds of mussels can be
used to help support mussel reintroduction into other areas where they have been lost.”
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 won’t 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, “We’ve made tremendous strides in improving some
environmental conditions needed to support healthy ecosystems. That said, we know our job
won’t 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, or
Anodonta 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

Aqua America, Inc. Chairman Nicholas DeBenedictis said this week
investor-owned water and wastewater companies like Aqua America are
leading the way in solving America’s water and wastewater utility
infrastructure needs.
Speaking before the National Association of Regulatory Utility
Commissioners at their annual conference in Atlanta, DeBenedictis
referred 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 he’s 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 utilities
including 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 nation’s drinking water and wastewater
systems is grim, it’s not all bad news. “We have a great chance to make lemonade out of lemons
and that’s what we’re 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 we’re investing those dollars—replacing aged water mains and treatment
plants for more safe and reliable service to our customers—you 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
nation’s 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
nation’s water and wastewater systems. With the help of our shareholders—many of whom are
attracted to our stock because of the dividend—we 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 efficiency
is 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 nation’s water
infrastructure.
ClearWater Conservancy Offers Delicious Holiday Fundraising Idea

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 absolutely
delicious. 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 it’s 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 Commission’s 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
PFBC’s Bureau of Administration, which oversees sales. “They are easy to purchase and require
only a method of payment. It’s 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

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 Bruce
Wagner & 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 release
form, 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: groves@fow.org
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 Digest is 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--
Pennsylvania’s 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 to
providing 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 Pennsylvania’s
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 municipality’s conviction
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 – he
successfully worked with the General Assembly to design tougher penalties for violations of
Pennsylvania’s Clean Streams Law. The act brought Pennsylvania’s law in line with federal law,
created a more significant deterrent to polluters and put a stop to the mentality of considering our
state’s 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 sound
science. At the heart of DEP’s mission to protect Pennsylvania’s air, water and land is an
obligation to assist Pennsylvania’s 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 the
Secretary 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 DEP’s 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 staffing
capabilities.
-- 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
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 those
programs 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 Pennsylvania’s 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 a
winning 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 approach to the
redevelopment of brownfields has been a national model for transforming abandoned, idle
properties into economic opportunities. However, changes are needed to meet growing demands.
As part of his efforts to return DEP to its core mission, Tom Corbett will consolidate all of the
agency’s site remediation programs under the direction of an existing deputate, which will be
titled, Environmental Cleanup Deputate. Programs such as the Land Recycling Program, the
Storage Tank and the Federal Facilities Group would be directed through one office, thereby
eliminating duplicate responsibilities. This new structure would more closely align
environmental cleanup programs in the DEP regional offices and facilitate more consistent
application of regulations and policies and ensure timely decision-making.
-- Reinvigorate the Brownfield Action Team. To accelerate redevelopment projects and to give
investors additional incentive to clean up contaminated sites and return them to productive use,
Tom Corbett will reinvigorate the Brownfield Action Team (BAT) by dedicating an existing
policy specialist position within DEP to coordinate its activities. The BAT serves as a single-
point-of-contact system designed to streamline the DEP permitting process and accelerate
redevelopment efforts for those sites that local officials target as redevelopment priorities. The
team works closely with the other state agencies, especially the Governor’s Action Team and the
Community Action Team, to provide one-stop shopping for technical and financing strategies.
-- Support Reinvestment in Brownfields Programs. Brownfield redevelopment yields an
impressive return on investment for Pennsylvania’s taxpayers. On average, every public dollar
invested in a brownfield revitalization project at the minimum leverages a matching investment
from the private sector and, in some cases, has attracted up to three or four times that much for
every tax dollar invested. Due to budget cuts, many of the state’s most successful brownfield
funding programs are hurting and are in jeopardy of losing their funding. As Governor, Tom
Corbett will rejuvenate brownfield reinvestment by reallocating low-performing funds to yield a
higher investment and create a performance-based funding program that pays for itself upfront.
-- Improve rail utilization through brownfield development. Through the years, federal and
state funding has been dedicated to rail infrastructure improvements in Pennsylvania. These
infrastructure improvements help to grow job creation opportunities and by opening up
Pennsylvania manufacturing to other markets and improving commuter corridors. Many rail
infrastructure projects are located within brownfield sites and must resolve cleanup issues before
economic and environmental benefits can be achieved. As Governor, Tom Corbett will establish
an interagency task force between PennDOT and DEP to identify and prioritize federal and state
funding for brownfield redevelopment projects that improve rail utilization. The task force also
will be required to facilitate permit and review streamlining through both agencies for
brownfield and rail infrastructure projects.
-- Establish the Pennsylvania Brownfield Reimbursement Program. To jumpstart additional
brownfield redevelopment, Tom Corbett will work with the General Assembly to create a new
performance-based brownfield funding program called the “Pennsylvania Brownfield
Reimbursement Program.” This revenue generating initiative would provide reimbursement for
up to 75 percent of cleanup-related costs incurred at Brownfield or Grayfield sites in the form of
a tax reimbursement. The program would be housed within DCED to complement existing
funding programs, but would be coordinated with DEP. The program would be modeled after a
successful New Jersey program, which has reimbursed roughly $21 million and generated more
than $140 million in new tax revenue for the state.
-- Reclaim and revitalize mine-scarred lands. While Pennsylvania has no shortage of mine-
scarred lands, it does lack a cohesive and comprehensive approach to the redevelopment of these
grayfield properties. As Governor, Tom Corbett will utilize existing resources and draw from the
successes of Pennsylvania’s brownfield revitalization efforts to establish a focused effort and
dedicated set of resources to address the need to revitalize mine-scarred lands with same level of
certainty and vigor.
-- Incorporate renewable energy through brightfield sites. As the country looks for new and
more inventive ways to obtain energy independence, Pennsylvania has a unique opportunity to
turn one if its greatest challenges into one of its greatest assets. Many of our brownfield and
grayfield sites are prime candidates for alternative and renewable energy projects, particularly
solar projects. Putting these “impaired” lands back into productive use with no additional threats
of further contamination, saves green space and helps to further the goals of finding additional
renewable energy sources. Referred to as "brightfields," these sites incorporate the use of solar
energy on old industrial sites and decommissioned landfills and highlight how government can
work with public utilities and private investors to advance the development of clean energy on
environmentally challenged properties. This type of linkage represents the next generation of
brownfields – where value is added through the generation of clean energy that can be used to
serve local businesses and reduce energy costs. As Governor, Tom Corbett will encourage the
development of brightfield sites to provide new energy options for Pennsylvania consumers.
The complete Environmental Policy statement from Gov.-elect Corbett is available

online.
RecycleBank Celebrates America Recycles Day 2010
RecycleBank, the leading green rewards program that motivates consumers and communities to
take positive environmental actions, announced today that in celebration of America Recycles
Day the company has set a goal of adding two million more people to its green rewards program
by America Recycles Day 2011.
This month, RecycleBank launched digital and social media initiatives in an effort to
educate and empower consumers on recycling right. Held each November 15 and founded by
Keep America Beautiful in 1997, America Recycles Day is the only nationally recognized day
dedicated to encouraging Americans to recycle and buy recycled products.
"America Recycles Day is the perfect time to remember how important it is to not just
recycle, but to recycle right," RecycleBank President Matthew Tucker said. "Recycling saves
natural resources, energy in manufacturing, and reduces the amount of waste that ends up in a
landfill—and recycling has an even bigger impact when it's done well. We want two million
people to join RecycleBank over the next year, so we can help motivate everyone to not only
recycle, but to recycle right."
RecycleBank has a proven record of accomplishment, helping to double—even
triple—recycling rates in more than 500 communities across 28 states and in the United
Kingdom. In 2010, RecycleBank expanded its recycling rewards program to more than 50
communities across the country and in the U.K.
Over the past year alone, residents in RecycleBank communities, which include major
cities like Cincinnati, Houston, Los Angeles and Philadelphia, have recycled more than 350,000
tons. Even more impressive, since 2005, RecycleBank communities have recycled over 550,000
tons of material.
Leveraging the success in these communities, RecycleBank recently launched several
new digital and social media initiatives on RecycleBank.com and on its Facebook page to
educate consumers about responsible consumption and recycling right.
The special America Recycles Day webpage includes information on the five main areas
of recyclable materials (plastic, paper, glass, metal, and electronics), links to municipal recycling
websites, little known and historical facts, and unique RecycleBank rewards and point-earning
opportunities for members.
Joining RecycleBank in its efforts are Nature Made, Kashi, LeapFrog, Nestle Purina's
Friskies and Fancy Feast Gourmet Cat Food, and MillerCoors, which collectively represent
plastic, paper, electronics, metal, and glass, respectively.
As part of their greater sustainability initiatives, the five brands ensure their packages or
products are recyclable, and in some cases, even use recycled materials. While the eco-
responsible companies do their part to maintain the cycle, by partnering with RecycleBank they
are encouraging consumers to take small steps that can have a massive impact on the planet.
For example:
-- If two million people recycle each paperboard cereal box they use over the course of a year,
over 50,000 trees will be saved—that's twice the number of trees in New York's Central Park.
-- If two million people each recycle just one vitamin bottle next year, they will save a combined
91,500 kWh—as much electricity as the Hoover Dam produces in one hour.
-- If two million people recycle two 3-oz. aluminum cans every day for a year, they will each
save as much energy as they could burn driving from New York to Los Angeles.
-- If two million people recycle their cell phones next year, more than 70,000 pounds of copper
will be conserved—almost 10,000 more pounds than are in the Statue of Liberty.
-- If two million people each recycle six glass bottles next year, enough glassphalt (50,000 tons!)
could be made to repave the 1.4 million square foot Daytona International Speedway.
"RecycleBank has seen incredible growth and accomplishments over the past year,"
Tucker added. "The success of the program in our communities across the country indicates that
recycling is truly one of the most important ways we can contribute to the health and
sustainability of the planet, and has an even greater impact when it's done well. We will proudly
continue to raise awareness of the right way to recycle while giving our loyal members
additional opportunities to be rewarded for their efforts now and into 2011."
Franklin & Marshall Kicks-Off Food Composting Program
Franklin & Marshall recently introduced food-waste composting to three locations on campus in
the College’s latest initiative to encourage sustainability and environmental stewardship.
The majority of the College's food waste ends up at a new composting facility at Oregon
Dairy, where Turn TEQ machines speed up the process of aerobic decomposition.
Food-waste composting began in October at the Benjamin Franklin Dining Hall, where
students now scrape food from their plates into BioBags rather than into plastic trash bags.
Students also place compostable flatware, cups and napkins into the bags, which are beside
regular trash bins. In addition, composting takes place in the kitchens of the dining hall and the
Alumni Sports & Fitness Center.
The College contracts with Edie Waste to haul the material to a new composting facility
at Oregon Dairy off Route 272.
“Students follow the same food-waste process as before, only now we have new bags,”
says Tom Simpson, Millport liaison and sustainability coordinator, who worked with several
people over nearly two years to bring the project to life. “The students’ participation and
enthusiasm have been wonderful. Students come up to us and say, ‘I think this is great, thank you
for doing this.’”
Simpson worked closely with Kevin Dean, general manager of F&M’s dining services,
on the logistics of the new program. Dean is an employee of Sodexo, the College’s food service
provider.
“Four years ago, one of my goals was to focus on sustainability efforts in F&M’s dining
services,” Dean says. “We introduced recyclable napkins, recyclable cooking oil, organics, and
tried to reduce waste wherever we could. Composting seemed like the logical next step.”
F&M ranks highly among Sodexo’s clients in embracing sustainable practices, Dean
says. The company recently notified him that the College is among the top 5 percent of all of its
clients in sustainability efforts.
Planning for the composting program began in 2008, when Fritz Schroeder, director of
programs at LIVE Green in Lancaster, encouraged the College to begin composting. Simpson
and Dean worked on the project with Barry Bosley, associate vice president for administration;
Maria Cimilluca, associate vice president for facilities management and campus planning; and
Ted Schmid, director of grounds.
The College also began composting pizza boxes from Common Hour this semester.
Approximately 125 boxes from Antonio’s Pizza House end up in the compost pile each week.
Boating Access Workshop Set For December 14 In Harrisburg
The Pennsylvania Water Trails Program has scheduled a boating access workshop on December
14 at the Fish and Boat Commission headquarters in Harrisburg.
The workshop includes presentations about the statewide strategy for fishing and boating
access, funding programs, assistance with design and engineering and permitting requirements.
Please bring your information about projects that you are working on and your questions.
There is no fee for this workshop, but registration is required. Lunch and refreshments
will be provided.
Register with the Pennsylvania Environmental Council by December 1 in order to reserve
a space. For more information contact Hannah E. Hardy call 412-481-9400 or send email to:
hhardy@pecpa.org.
Pittsburgh, Norristown Named Pathways to Green Schools Pilot Districts
The Department of Education has chosen the school districts of Norristown and Pittsburgh to be
the first "Pathways to Green Schools" pilot projects to receive technical assistance and consulting
services for their green and sustainable investments with federal recovery funds.
The Pathways project is a Rendell administration effort to help school districts and
schools curb energy consumption and save taxpayer money through reduced operating costs. The
initiative focuses on a range of policy, program and investment options school districts can make
for buildings, energy use, food services and curriculum.
"We are excited to work with Norristown and Pittsburgh as they make investments that
will have environmental and economic long-term benefits," said Michael Walsh, PDE's deputy
secretary for administration. "As part of this pilot program, these districts will serve as a model
for those who are considering undertaking similar projects, and we will share their best practices
with school leaders throughout the state."
The two districts will receive technical assistance from consultants provided through a
partnership between the department and the Delaware County Intermediate Unit, or DCIU, to aid
school districts that are investing Recovery Act funds to make green and sustainable investments.
Both school districts were awarded interest-free construction bonds for their projects under the
federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
"This work is another example how school districts in partnership with their regional
intermediate units can consolidate resources and more efficiently use public funds to support
their missions," said Dr. Lawrence O'Shea, Executive Director of DCIU. "In this case, two
school districts were able to invest in energy saving technologies using project management
expertise from our partner Sustainable Program Management. The Pathways pilot project is
giving a boost to these school districts toward energy and operational cost savings."
The Norristown Area School District is working to modernize the existing Norristown
High School, built in 1973. Recovery Act funds are being used for a comprehensive upgrade to
building-systems to achieve energy savings, improved comfort and reduced operating costs.
Roofs, air handlers and building controls will be replaced and upgraded, and officials are
considering adding other sustainable features such as demonstration rain gardens, green screens
and community gardens.
The Pittsburgh School District is incorporating sustainable features and practices at the
Northview Elementary School, built in the 1960s, and the Pittsburgh Oliver High School, built in
the 1920s. Both projects anticipate employing geothermal systems to replace the existing fossil
fuel heating and cooling systems. Both also anticipate roof and window replacements. Other
sustainable features including demonstration rain gardens, rainwater harvesting, community
gardens and demonstration photovoltaic systems are also under consideration.
Both projects will seek third-party validation through the U.S. Green Building Council's
LEED rating system and anticipate achieving certification upon completion of the upgrades.
Learn more, visit the Pathways to Green Schools webpage.
HACC Green Center Receives Clean Energy Award
The Green Center of Central Pennsylvania recently was awarded a “Green Power: Turn it on!”
award from Citizens for Pennsylvania’s Future for its efforts to promote the clean energy
economy.
“Your award is for your leadership in promoting solar and energy efficiency through
education and workforce training programs,” Jan Jarrett, PennFuture president and CEO, wrote
in his notification of the award.
Julia Knight, executive director of the Green Center, accepted the award during the 11th
annual Green Power Awards luncheon ceremony in Philadelphia.
“HACC is a leader in providing training programs in emerging green technology fields,
particularly in solar photovoltaic (PV) energy and building analyst/energy auditor programs,”
said Ron Young, HACC interim president. “We appreciate recognition for our efforts from
PennFuture in its campaign to build the state’s renewable energy market.”
Young added, “The college continues to expand opportunities for students who want to
learn the skills necessary to be successful in this field with the addition next fall of an associate
degree in green technology.”
In addition to solar PV and energy analyst programs, HACC offers mechatronics, wind
and geothermal energy, and heating, air conditioning and ventilation (HVAC) courses tailored to
green technology jobs.
“Our mission is to provide our students with the training and education to compete
successfully for the jobs required by Central Pennsylvania employers, and that includes not only
emerging green technology but an array of trade and technical jobs as well,” said Cindy Reiner,
HACC dean of workforce development, public safety center and continuing education.
The Green Center, which is located on the first floor of the Campus Square Building in
Midtown, is a public/private partnership between HACC, Central Pennsylvania’s Community
College and GreenWorks Development LLC. HACC offers green technology courses in the
building, as well as the college’s Midtown 1 and Midtown 2 sites nearby.
$8 Million Given To 21 Alternative Energy Projects
$7.9 million in grants were awarded to 21 biofuels, natural gas and electric vehicle projects
across the state as part of the Alternative Fuel Incentive Grant Program.
The projects are expected to reduce the use of oil by more than 500,000 gallons, create
221 jobs and cut carbon dioxide emissions by 14.5 million pounds.
This latest round of investments-which are being matched by another $22.1 million in
private funds for a total economic impact of $30 million-further strengthens Pennsylvania's
reputation as a leading state for clean energy innovation and use.
"Two weeks ago, the Natural Resources Defense Council named Pennsylvania as
the 7th least vulnerable state in the nation to oil price spikes because of our work to build a green
economy here," said the Governor. "In doing so, it noted 'America's addiction to oil continues to
threaten not only our national security and global environmental health, but also our economic
viability.'
"That's a very accurate assessment and it's what we've been saying for the past eight
years, which is why we've worked so hard to create a green energy economy here. That work has
paid off and today, we have thousands of companies who are employing tens of thousands of
workers in green collar jobs. These projects will build upon that work and will transform the way
we power our vehicles."
A list of projects receiving grants is available online.
NewsClip: $8 Million In Grants To Promote Biofuels, Alternative Energy
PUC Issues Proposed Updates To Manual Used To Evaluate Energy Savings
Public Utility Commission this week issued for comment proposed updates to its Technical
Reference Manual, which is used to assess energy savings attributable to energy efficiency and
demand response measures for the implementation of the state's Alternative Energy Portfolio
Standards Act and the energy efficiency and conservation provisions of Act 129 of 2008.
The Commission voted 5-0 to issue an updated TRM for comment. The TRM sets the
standards used to measure and verify applicable demand side management and energy efficiency
measures used by the state's electric distribution companies.
Initially established in March 2005, the Commission said the TRM will be updated
annually in order to keep pace and remain relevant and useful as experience and technology
related to energy efficiency increases. In addition, energy efficiency and demand-side
management measures have become more prevalent and necessary, as evidenced by the recent
enactment of Act 129 of 2008.
The proposed changes are designed to make the TRM a more effective and professional
tool for validating energy savings and providing support for the Act 129 goals. The major goals
of the proposed modifications are:
-- To add additional measures that were not in the 2010 TRM to cover additional energy
efficiency and conservation measures being implemented by the EDCs and to broaden the scope
of the TRM;
-- To appropriately balance the integrity and accuracy of claimed energy savings estimates with
costs incurred to measure and verify the claimed energy savings;
-- To clarify existing calculation methods;
-- To minimize the number of EE&C measures that must be evaluated through custom protocols;
-- To improve the functionality and scope of the TRM Appendix C (Lighting Inventory Tool)
and Appendix D (Motor and Variable Frequency Drive Inventory Tool); and
-- To provide additional reasonable methods for measurement and verification of incremental
energy savings associated with EE&C measures without unduly burdening utility EE&C
program and evaluation staff.
The Commission is open to other suggestions of changes or additions to the TRM not
outlined in the proposal. Any proposal should include supporting reference material and data to
substantiate any proposed stipulated values.
The deadline for filing comments is 20 days after the PUC Order is published in the
Pennsylvania Bulletin. The deadline for filing reply comments is 30 days after the PUC Order is
published in the Pennsylvania Bulletin. Further instructions on how to file comments will be
provided in Commission order.
AEPS specifically required the Commission to develop standards for tracking and
verifying savings from energy efficiency and demand-side management measures. Generally,
AEPS requires that a certain percentage of all electric energy sold to retail customers be derived
from alternative energy sources such as solar, wind, hydropower, geothermal, biomass, waste
coal and demand side management resources. The law applies to both EDCs and electric
generation suppliers (EGSs) which must demonstrate their compliance on an annual basis.
Act 129 expanded the PUC's oversight responsibilities and imposed new energy
efficiency and conservation requirements on EDCs with at least 100,000 customers. The overall
goal is to reduce energy consumption and demand. The Commission is implementing the Act in
phases which address EDC and default service provider responsibilities; smart meter technology;
time-of-use rates; real-time pricing plans; default service procurement; market misconduct;
alternative energy sources; and cost recovery.
For more information, visit the PUC's Act 129 webpage.
Pennsylvania Achieves Part Of Home Weatherizing Goals
Gov. Rendell this week announced Pennsylvania is more than halfway toward its goal to help
nearly 30,000 low-income homeowners improve their energy efficiency and reduce costs.
Training will help prepare 1,000 more weatherization installers, crew chiefs and auditors across
the state in the coming year.
"We are making great progress weatherizing low-income homes, work that creates jobs,
conserves energy and reduces costs for homeowners," Gov. Rendell said. "Over the past 11
months, 15,027 homes across the state - just over 50 percent of our 29,700 goal - were
weatherized as part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act-funded initiative in
Pennsylvania."
Approximately 1,800 people have jobs and skills that can carry well into the future
economy because of the weatherization work on these homes.
"Those homeowners are now saving an average of $600 each year on their energy costs.
But this effort is about more than simply saving energy and money; this Recovery Act-funded
initiative is boosting local economies across the state," the Governor said, noting that more than
$22.3 million has been invested so far in materials and supplies for the weatherization initiative.
"Over the past year, we trained and certified 1,026 workers on ways to help reduce
energy costs for Pennsylvania families," Gov. Rendell said. "The demand for these workers is
growing. Through the Recovery Act, we expect to train and certify another 1,000 weatherization
workers."
Seven recipients will use a total of $799,000 in federal American Recovery and
Reinvestment Act funds to continue providing weatherization training to students learning to
become weatherization installers, crew chiefs and auditors. The funds will also provide
weatherization instructors with Building Performance Institute, or BPI, certification. BPI is a
nationally recognized credential for energy-efficiency and weatherization retrofit work.
"As long as people are struggling to pay mortgages, keep the power on and keep their
families warm, Pennsylvania should take the necessary steps to provide the help those people
need," Gov. Rendell said. "Weatherizing homes and increasing energy efficiency saves real
money that can help families to put coats on kids and food on the table."
Pennsylvania's Weatherization Assistance Program provides energy retrofits to low-
income homes. While the weatherization work is coordinated through the Department of
Community and Economic Development, the Department of Labor & Industry coordinates all
weatherization training. Individuals performing weatherization work for the program must be
certified to ensure that work done on a consumer's home is completed safely and provides the
greatest possible energy savings.
The training grants are part of a joint effort by the departments of Labor & Industry and
Community and Economic Development to enhance a Weatherization Assistance Program
providing training and career-focused employment to Pennsylvania's workforce, creating green
jobs, improving residential energy efficiency and promoting economic recovery.
A list of grants awarded is available online.
Direct Energy Offers Furnace Tune-Up For Philadelphia Electricity Customers
As rate caps are lifted in Southeastern Pennsylvania starting January 1, 2011 – nearly 1.5 million
residential electricity customers in the PECO service area will be able to pick which company
supplies electricity to their homes.
Now more than ever, consumers are conscious of managing their energy bills going into
winter and looking for simple ways to ease the pressure on their pocket books.
With this in mind, Direct Energy is offering a competitive, guaranteed fixed-price
electricity deal – with no cancellation fee and the bonus of a free furnace and air conditioning
tune-up and safety check for the first 1,000 customers who enroll beginning November 17.
Direct Energy, one of North America's leading energy companies, is building on its 10
years of experience in supplying residential and business customers across the state to extend its
electricity service to the PECO area.
The Direct Energy electricity deal: 12-month guaranteed fixed-price electricity at
$0.0942 per kWh; no cancellation fee; senior citizens and military personnel will receive a
discounted rate of $0.0922 per kWh; free furnace and air conditioning tune-up and safety check
for the first 1,000 customers who enroll worth up to $300.
"We believe that customers should have a choice when it comes to their electricity
supplier. With rate caps lifted, it allows for a level playing field for other electricity suppliers to
offer customers a competitive price. Consumers like to shop around for great deals for their
home, whether it's buying a new TV or finding the right cell-phone or cable package. Now,
thanks to the legislative and regulatory support for competition in the energy market across the
state, electricity customers in the Philadelphia area will finally have the power to choose their
electricity supplier," said Steven Murray, President of Direct Energy's residential business.
Direct Energy is committed to providing competitive pricing and innovative products to
help people manage their energy needs. Together with its home services company, One Hour
Heating and Air Conditioning and our franchise partners in Pennsylvania, it is delivering a new
offer to the first 1,000 customers who enroll to help get their homes ready for winter.
Each of those customers will receive a year's free membership to the "Comfort Club"
maintenance program which will provide a precision tune-up and safety check of their homes
heating and air conditioning equipment.
According to the Department of Energy, heating and cooling account for 43 percent of a
typical home's energy costs. Combining proper equipment maintenance with other efficiency
measures can cut consumers' heating- and cooling-related energy usage by 20 percent or more.
The company already has a strong and committed presence in Pennsylvania that serves
residential, small business and commercial and industrial customers. Currently the company
serves residential customers in PPL, Pike County, Duquesne Light and Columbia Gas of
Pennsylvania service areas, from its regional headquarters in Pittsburgh.
Philadelphia residents can find out more about Direct Energy's products by calling toll-
free on 888-734-0741.
For more information on the benefits and the value of Comfort Club membership with
One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning.
Eagles Plan To Power Football Stadium With Onsite, Renewable Energy
The Philadelphia Eagles this week announced a plan to

power Lincoln Financial Field with a combination of onsite
wind, solar and dual-fuel generated electricity, making it
the world’s first major sports stadium to convert to self-
generated renewable energy.
The Eagles have contracted with Orlando FL-based
SolarBlue, a renewable energy and energy conservation
company, to install approximately 80 20-foot spiral-shaped wind turbines on the top rim of the
stadium, affix 2,500 solar panels on the stadium’s façade, build a 7.6 megawatt on-site dual-fuel
cogeneration plant and implement sophisticated monitoring and switching technology to operate
the system.
Over the next year, SolarBlue will invest in excess of $30 million to build out the system,
with a completion goal of September 2011. SolarBlue will maintain and operate the stadium’s
power system for the next 20 years at a fixed percent annual price increase in electricity, saving
the Eagles an estimated $60 million in energy costs.
The Eagles and SolarBlue estimate that over the 20-year horizon, the on-site energy
sources at Lincoln Financial Field will provide 1.039 billion kilowatt hours of electricity — more
than enough to supply the stadium’s power needs — enabling an estimated four megawatts of
excess energy off-peak to be sold back to the local electric grid.
“The Philadelphia Eagles are proud to take this vital step towards energy independence
from fossil fuels by powering Lincoln Financial Field with wind, solar and dual-fuel energy
sources,” said team owner and chief executive officer, Jeffrey Lurie. “This commitment builds
upon our comprehensive environmental sustainability program, which includes energy and water
conservation, waste reduction, recycling, composting, toxic chemical avoidance and
reforestation. It underscores our strong belief that environmentally sensitive policies are
consistent with sound business practices.”
Added Eagles owner Christina Lurie, “We believe the iconic stature and universal appeal
of professional sports can become a powerful, visible, motivating example of how renewable
energy sources can replace fossil fuels and create a cleaner, sustainable environment for people
everywhere.”
Against a backdrop of trees symbolizing the Eagles’ commitment to reforestation, the
Luries invited special guests to join them in signing the Go Green! Team’s Declaration of
Energy Independence, which “seeks to create a better living environment by reducing the
world’s dependence on fossil fuels.”
The greening of Lincoln Financial Field is a significant step by a major sports franchise
to achieve that goal. The energy to be generated by on-site renewable sources is comparable to
the annual electricity usage of 26,000 homes.
Engineers at Solar Blue estimate that converting the stadium to renewable energy will
eliminate CO2 emissions equivalent to 500,000 barrels of oil or 24 million gallons of gasoline
consumed annually. That equates to removing the carbon emissions of 41,000 cars each year.
“The Eagles’ plan for Lincoln Financial Field represents one of the most extensive
renewable energy commitments by any major facility,” said Lee Maher, Chairman and CEO,
SolarBlue. “The energy plan will utilize the most technologically advanced wind turbines and
solar panels. With this installation, we anticipate that many businesses will see the benefits of
renewable energy and be inspired to emulate the Eagles’ bold leadership.”
Beyond the substantial environmental advantages, the Eagles’ renewable energy plan will
create hundreds of jobs for the Philadelphia area. SolarBlue anticipates directly employing 200
local people during the year-long design and installation phase.
One-quarter of these jobs will be permanently maintained over the 20-year operational
horizon. In addition, the project will generate approximately 600 indirect jobs in the surrounding
region as a result of Solar Blue’s commitment to utilize local contractors, vendors and suppliers,
as available.
Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter stated, “The Philadelphia Eagles have been great
corporate citizens for many years, most specifically working with disadvantaged youth
throughout the City. But we also know the Eagles to be green; they don’t just wear green, they
sincerely believe in the concept of responsible environmental stewardship. We appreciate their
commitment to an issue that is at the core of the City’s Greenworks Philadelphia Plan, to become
the Greenest City in America. Today’s announcement will help reduce the City’s carbon
footprint, create hundreds of much needed green jobs and put our City on the world stage. This
type of forward thinking will serve as an excellent example to every organization that wants to
play a role in strengthening our local economy while helping the environment.”
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell stated, “With this ground-breaking initiative, the
Eagles are taking another significant step forward in their commitment to environmental
responsibility and to their community. The work of the Eagles’ Go Green! initiative in raising
environmental awareness and implementing green programs is a tribute to the leadership of the
organization. The NFL is proud to support the Eagles and Christina and Jeffrey Lurie as they set
the right example for all of sports.”
Visit the Philadelphia Eagles Go Green webpage for more information on this and other
green initiatives.
NewsClips: Eagles To Turn Lincoln Financial Into Greenest Stadium
Philadelphia Eagles Are Getting Greener
The Linc Stadium Goes Green
PA Sustainable Energy Board Holds Annual Meeting December 7
The Pennsylvania Sustainable Energy Board, in conjunction with the Public Utility Commission,
will hold its annual meeting at 10 a.m., on December 7 in Hearing Room 1 of the
Commonwealth Keystone Building, Harrisburg.
This meeting is being held to update Commonwealth agencies and other interested groups
on activities of the regional sustainable energy funds, and the market status of sustainable energy
technologies and projects.
The meeting will also provide an opportunity for the regional funds to collaborate on
larger projects that may be of interest to collective funds. The following presenters will provide
updates from the Regional Sustainable Energy Funds:
-- Joel Morrison, Fund Administrator for the West Penn Power Sustainable Energy Fund;
-- Mike Kane, Administrator for Penelec SEF and Rich Mappin, Administrator for Met-Ed SEF;
-- Roger Clark, Manager for Technology and Policy, and Rob Sanders, Fund Manager, PECO
Sustainable Development Fund; and
-- Jennifer Hopkins, President, Sustainable Energy Fund of Central Eastern Pennsylvania.
Also attending the meeting will be representatives from the Department of Environmental
Protection, Office of Consumer Advocate, the Department of Community and Economic
Development, and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.
The PASEB was originally established by the Commission in 1999 to provide oversight,
guidance and technical assistance to the regional sustainable energy boards that fund projects
such as wind farms, solar power systems, smart thermostat programs and the construction of
buildings using energy efficient technologies.
On August 7, 2003, the Commission issued an order further defining the role of the
PASEB. That order charged the PASEB with holding an annual meeting; enhancing
communications among the four funds and state agencies; and establishing bylaws and a "best
business practices" model.
Grants & Awards
This section gives you a heads up on upcoming deadlines for awards and grants and other
recognition programs. NEW means new from last week.
December 15-- Western PA Conservancy, Dominion Watershed Mini Grants

December 17-- DEP Environmental Education Grants
December 17-- Coldwater Heritage Partnership Grants
December 30-- PA Parks & Forest Foundation 2011 Awards
December 31-- Fish & Boat Commission 2010 Photo Contest
December 31-- PPL Small Business Energy Audits
ASAP-- NRCS Health Forest Reserve Program Grants
January 7-- PA Conservation Corps Grants
February 15-- PennVEST Water Infrastructure Funding
March 1-- Schuylkill Action Network Schuylkill Stories Contest
March 1-- Schuylkill Action Network Drinking Water Scholastic Award Contest
April 20-- DCNR Community Conservation Partnership Grants
June 30-- DEP Nitrogen Tire Inflation System Grants
Other Funding Programs

-- DEP PA Sunshine Solar Energy Rebates
-- CFA High Performance Building Financing (Program Link)
-- CFA Solar Energy Financing (Program Link)
-- CFA Geothermal, Wind Energy Projects (Program Link)
-- Visit the DEP Grants and Loan Programs webpage for more ideas on how to get financial
assistance for environmental projects.
Quick Clips
Here's a selection of NewClips on environmental topics from around the state--
Budget
Corbett Sharpens Budget Ax
Sen. Corman Talks About State Budget Challenges (Podcast)
Other
Wallingford-Swarthmore School District Wins Recycling Award
St. Rose Of Lima Students Learn About Recycling
90 Percent Of Garbage Trucks Pass Surprise Inspections
Political Figure Looms Large In Allentown's Waste-To-Energy Plant
Solar Water System To Be Installed At Himalayan Institute
Pottsville Schools Research Installation Of Solar Panels
Stroudsburg Schools Go Solar
Solar Company Wins Venture Capital Contest
Eagles To Turn Lincoln Financial Into Greenest Stadium
Philadelphia Eagles Are Getting Greener
The Linc Stadium Goes Green
PECO Celebrates Taking The LEED In Green Building Certification
$8 Million In Grants To Promote Biofuels, Alternative Energy
Op-Ed: Geo-Engineering Fixes Only Compound Climate Mistakes
Can Anyone Own The Wind?
Paying For Natural Gas Service Line Repairs
PNC To Stop Financing Mountaintop Coal Removal
Editorial: Coal Mines Still Yield Energy
NRC Criticizes Berwick Nuclear Plant
Dawida Heads Fight Against Billboard Pollution
Editorial: Taking Aim At Pittsburgh's Billboard Landscape
Walmart Credited For Diligent Kilbuck Landslide Fix
For Parks Head, Philly Parks Are Field Of Dreams
Great Day For Elk Watching Near Benezette
DCNR Opening State Forest Roads For Game Hunting Seasons
Controlled Hunt At Ridley Creek To Help Forests Regenerate
Presque Isle Committee Discusses Demographics, Deer
Call To Arms Over Reducing Deer Herd In Southeast
Hunters Find Hotel Rooms Scarce Thanks To Drilling
Op-Ed: Hiking The Baker Trail In Western PA
Lackawanna River Trail Tour Highlights History
Cleaning The Back Mountain Trail
Pike County OKs $23K For Land Preservation
Dauphin County Deeds Land For Swatara Greenway Project
Column: Fly Fishing Youth Camp
New Threat To Bald Eagles
Marcellus Shale NewsClips
Here are NewsClips on topics related to Marcellus Shale natural gas drilling---

Marcellus Gas Industry Could Take Business Away From Pittsburgh
Dimock Residents Discuss Gas Boom On 60 Minutes
TV Report Focuses On Gas Drilling
Editorial: The Gas Boom, Be Smart About What You Hear
PA Doesn't Know How Many Water Supplies Impacted By Drilling
Panel OKs New Gas Drilling Safeguards
Pipeline Firms May Seek Eminent Domain
Penn State Forum Focuses On Future Regulation Of Drilling
Editorial: Stop Debating, Start Regulating Drilling
Study: Gas Drillers To Damage State's Iconic Forests
Study: 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
Man Blames Salty Well Water On Marcellus Drilling
Pittsburgh First PA City to Ban Gas Drilling
Murrysville Drilling Rules Moves Forward
South Fayette Approves Residential Drilling Ban
Whitehall Approves Ordinance Governing Drilling
Drilling Near Westmoreland Reservoir Safe, Residents Told
Gas Drilling Still Hot Issue To Lehman Twp Residents
Expert: Extent Of Future Gas Drilling In Poconos Unknown
Halliburton IDs Frack Chemicals
Business Leaders Tout Marcellus Gas Drilling Potential
Atlas Energy President Hypes Marcellus Shale
Fracking Company To Build Fayette County Complex
Chesapeake Energy Honors Student Leaders
Marcellus Shale 101
Column: History Repeats: Ridge, Corbett, Marcellus Shale Coalition
Editorial: Marcellus Industry Buying Good Publicity
Editorial: Pittsburgh Council Should Restrict, Not Bar Drilling
Editorial: Chevron's Marcellus Boom
Editorial: Marcellus Shale, At Boom At What Cost?
Editorial: Natural Gas Companies Win An Election
Financial
Marcellus Driller Selling 50,000 Acres
Newfield Exploration Sells Gas Holdings In Bradford For $405 Million
Encana Backs Away From Gas Drilling In Luzerne
Encana 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
Big Oil Jumps On Shale Gas Bandwagon
Watershed NewsClips
Here are NewsClips on watershed topics from around the state--
Marywood U. Use Of Mine Water For Energy A Model

Quality Of Drinking Water Drops In Allegheny
Groups Get Help To Combat Chesapeake Bay Pollution
Nine Mile Run Gets Healthy Dose Of Help
Media Able To Tour DuBois' Watershed
Allegheny River Towns Hold Walkabouts
Gift Of Land Along The Lehigh River
Stream Bank Restoration Project Begins In Jacob's Creek
Flood Insurance Appeals Begin In Luzerne
Delaware Judge OKs Delaware River Dredging
Column: Fly Fishing Youth Camp
Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits
The Environmental Quality Board published notice of final regulations implementing and setting
fees under the Uniform Environmental Covenants Act and setting emission standards for certain
coating processes.
Pennsylvania Bulletin - November 20, 2010
Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage
Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage
Rolling Regulatory Agenda - DEP webpage
Technical Guidance & Permits
No new policy document were published this week.
Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines - DEP webpage
Copies Of Draft Technical Guidance - DEP webpage
Copies of Final Technical Guidance - DEP webpage
Calendar Of Events
Upcoming legislative meetings, conferences, workshops, plus links to other online calendars.
Meetings are in Harrisburg unless otherwise noted. NEW means new from last week. Go to the
online Calendar webpage.
Click on Agenda Released on calendar entries to see the NEW meeting agendas published this
week.
December 9-- Agenda Released. DEP Coal And Clay Mine Subsidence Insurance Fund Board
meeting. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.
December 10-- DEP Board for Certification of Water and Wastewater Systems Operators.
Rescheduled from December 17. 10th Floor Conference Room, Rachel Carson Building. 10:00.
(formal notice)
December 16-- Forestry Task Force, Joint Legislative Air & Water Pollution Control and
Conservation Committee. Celebration Hall, State College. 10:00.
December 17-- CANCELED. DEP Board for Certification of Water and Wastewater Systems
Operators. Rescheduled for December 10. (formal notice)
DEP Calendar of Events
Environmental Education Workshop/Training Calendar (PA Center for Environmental

Education)
Senate Committee Schedule House Committee Schedule
You can watch the Senate Floor Session and House Floor Session live online.
Stories Invited
Send your stories, photos and videos about your project, environmental issues or programs for
publication in the PA Environment Digest to: DHess@CrisciAssociates.com.
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Pa Environment Digest Nov. 22, 2010

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Pa Environment Digest Nov. 22, 2010

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PA Environment Digest

An Update On Environmental Issues In

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

Senate/House Agenda/Session Schedule

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

New Governor takes office on January 18.

There are no Committee meetings scheduled this week.

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

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

Senate/House Bills Moving

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

News From The Capitol

Senate Panel Hears Testimony On Economic Impact Of Marcellus Shale

News From Around The State

Pennsylvania hunters venturing out this fall may be

DEP: IRRC Unanimously OKs Tougher Drilling Standards

PA Chamber: DEP Secretary's Comments Exemplify Agency's Approach To Marcellus

The Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry this week called

Regulating The Natural Gas Industry

As part of his commitment to developing Pennsylvania’s natural

The complete Environmental Policy statement from Gov.-elect Corbett is available

DCNR Approves Four Watershed Conservation Plans, Adds To Rivers Registry

Freshwater Mussels Discovered In Urban Delaware River

Investor-Owned Water Utilities Lead The Way In Infrastructure Investments

ClearWater Conservancy Offers Delicious Holiday Fundraising Idea

Holiday Gifts: New Fishing Licenses Go On Sale December 1

Be A Friends Of The Wissahickon Trail Ambassador

Back To Basics At DEP, Incentives For Brownfields, Grayfields Redevelopment

Pennsylvania’s environment is one of our most precious resources,

The complete Environmental Policy statement from Gov.-elect Corbett is available

Franklin & Marshall Kicks-Off Food Composting Program

Pittsburgh, Norristown Named Pathways to Green Schools Pilot Districts

HACC Green Center Receives Clean Energy Award

$8 Million Given To 21 Alternative Energy Projects

PUC Issues Proposed Updates To Manual Used To Evaluate Energy Savings

Pennsylvania Achieves Part Of Home Weatherizing Goals

Direct Energy Offers Furnace Tune-Up For Philadelphia Electricity Customers

Eagles Plan To Power Football Stadium With Onsite, Renewable Energy

The Philadelphia Eagles this week announced a plan to

PA Sustainable Energy Board Holds Annual Meeting December 7

Grants & Awards

December 15-- Western PA Conservancy, Dominion Watershed Mini Grants

Other Funding Programs

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

Marcellus Shale NewsClips

DEP Chief: Support For Well Controls Doubted

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

Marywood U. Use Of Mine Water For Energy A Model

Regulations, Technical Guidance & Permits

Pennsylvania Bulletin - November 20, 2010

Proposed Regulations Open For Comment - DEP webpage

Proposed Regulations With Closed Comment Periods - DEP webpage

Rolling Regulatory Agenda - DEP webpage

Technical Guidance & Permits

No new policy document were published this week.

Technical Guidance Comment Deadlines - DEP webpage

Copies Of Draft Technical Guidance - DEP webpage

Copies of Final Technical Guidance - DEP webpage

DEP Calendar of Events

Environmental Education Workshop/Training Calendar (PA Center for Environmental