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F. X. Browne, Inc. |
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Lake and Watershed News |
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December 2005 |
Editors Note
In the words of Jerry Garcia, "Reach out your hand if your cup be empty; if your cup is full, may it be again." From all of us at F. X. Browne, Inc., here's hoping that your cup is overflowing and your heart as well! Happy Holidays!
Topic of the Month
It's holiday time and in keeping with tradition, our annual F. X. Browne, Inc. Lake and Watershed News holiday poem (if you can call it that) can be viewed below. This year, we mutilate the traditional German carol, O Christmas Tree, to create what will surely become a classic, O Stormwater!
O Stormwater by Rebecca Buerkett,
Lake and Watershed News Editor
O stormwater, O stormwater, how swiftly
are ye flowing.
O stormwater, O stormwater, we aim to heed thy going.
You infiltrate into the ground
When we leave trees a' standing round.
O stormwater, O stormwater, thy velocity is slowing!
O stormwater, O stormwater,
with BMPs we treat thee.
O stormwater, O stormwater, our rain gardens deplete thee.
With wetlands, ponds, and roofs so green,
No sediment plumes to be seen.
O stormwater, O stormwater, our check dams rise to meet thee.
O stormwater, O stormwater,
no illicit discharging.
O stormwater, O stormwater, our open space enlarging.
Our neighborhoods now habitat,
Low-impact design helps make sure that,
O stormwater, O stormwater, our groundwater's recharging!
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Mistletoe is Good For More Than Just Kissing The next time you pucker up under the mistletoe, consider this: mistletoe also provides essential food, cover, and nesting sites for an amazing number of birds, butterflies, and mammals, according to the United State Geological Survey (USGS). The common name mistletoe is derived from early observations that mistletoe would often appear in places where birds had left their droppings. "Mistel" is the Anglo-Saxon word for "dung," and "tan" is the word for "twig." Thus, mistletoe means "dung-on-a-twig." Even though bird droppings do not really generate mistletoe plants, birds are an important part of mistletoe life. Birds find mistletoe a great place for nesting, and many birds eat mistletoe berries, including grouse, mourning doves, bluebirds, evening grosbeaks, robins and pigeons. http://www.usgs.gov/mistletoe/index.html |
News Clips
New Equations Benefit Stream Restoration Efforts
Restoration efforts in Pennsylvania and Maryland will benefit from the results of a newly-released report by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS).
The report is titled “Development of Regional Curves Relating Bankfull-Channel Geometry and Discharge to Drainage Area for Streams in Pennsylvania and Selected Areas of Maryland.” The study maintains that mathematical equations that relate drainage area to bankfull discharge and channel dimensions at gaged sites are important tools in the design of stream restoration projects. The equations, called Regional Curves, are needed to estimate a channel geometry and discharge that is expected to effectively transport sediment at sites where restoration is considered.
The study's author claims that the equations are easy to use since drainage area and rock type underlying the stream basin are the only variables needed. However, there are limitations to the methodology because the equations were developed primarily in rural settings and are not applicable to urban areas. http://pubs.usgs.gov/sir/2005/5147/
Chesapeake Bay Region Leads Nation
in Dam Removals
A newly established fish passage goal for the Chesapeake Bay watershed favors dam removals.
Earlier this year, the Chesapeake Executive Council established a new fish passage goal that called for opening 1,000 miles of river to migratory fish. Unlike earlier goals, though, it said programs should favor dam removals as opposed to structural fish passages, where practical. The Bay region leads the nation in dam removals, according to figures compiled by American Rivers. Of 56 dams in 11 states that were scheduled to be removed this year, 29 were in the Bay states. Pennsylvania led the way with 26 (not all are in the Bay watershed), while Maryland had two and Virginia one.
NOAA has become increasingly active in supporting dam removals because they block historic spawning grounds for migratory fish, and it is expected that role may grow. This summer, NOAA Administrator Conrad Lautenbacher announced its Open Rivers Initiative designed to help communities remove derelict dams and other stream barriers. See the grants section below for more information on the Open Rivers Initiative. http://www.bayjournal.com/newsite/article.cfm?article=2652
F. X. Browne, Inc. has extensive experience in stream restoration design, including dam removals. Please contact us at info@fxbrowne.com for more information.
PA Growing Greener Grants Awarded; Watershed
Restoration Grants Announced
The PA DEP recently announced the award of $14.4 million in Watershed Restoration Grants for 129 projects, with more grants to come.
The $14.4 million represents the seventh round of funding awarded by DEP under the traditional Growing Greener program. In addition, DEP is recommending $1.1 million in Nonpoint Source Implementation Program Grants, funded through Section 319(h) of the federal Clean Water Act. A comprehensive list of grant recipients can be accessed at http://www.depweb.state.pa.us/news/cwp/view.asp?a=3&q=481323.
The Growing Greener grants announcement came a little more than a week after Governor Rendell announced the first $65 million in grants under voter-approved Growing Greener II bond initiative. That law brought to fruition more than a year of aggressive efforts to continue to address some of the state’s most pressing environmental problems. A list of projects funded under the first Growing Greener II grants can be found at http://www.dep.state.pa.us/newsreleases/default.asp?ID=3708.
PA DEP announced that the next round of Watershed Restoration Grant applications are due March 3. For more information, visit the Growing Greener webpage: http://www.depweb.state.pa.us/growinggreener/site/default.asp .
F. X. Browne, Inc. has been highly successful in past years with helping our clients acquire Growing Greener grant funding for watershed restoration and protection projects. For assistance in applying for and implementing PA Growing Greener Grants, please contact F. X. Browne, Inc. at info@fxbrowne.com .
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Fish and Wildlife Program Habitat Funding
The U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program provides financial assistance on a competitive basis to landowners interested in restoring wildlife habitat. There is no specific deadline to apply. Financial assistance is provided in the form of cooperative agreements. The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program supports on-the-ground restoration rather than planning and research. http://www.fws.gov/partners/index.htm
Green Communities Initiative Program
The Green Communities Initiative program provides a package of tangible financial incentives and other resources to developers––both community-based organizations and private builders––who undertake green affordable housing projects integrating Green Communities criteria. Over a five-year period the Green Communities program will provide green grants, low-interest loans, LIHTC equity investments, and educational conferences.
http://www.enterprisefoundation.org/resources/green/about-essentials.asp
NFWF Bring Back the Natives Aquatic Species Program
The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation requests pre-proposals from nonprofit organizations; universities; Native American tribes; and local, state, and federal agencies interested in restoring native populations of sensitive or listed aquatic species for its Bring Back the Natives (BBN) program. The initiative funds on-the-ground efforts to restore native aquatic species to their historic range. The pre-proposal deadline is December 2. http://njfieldoffice.fws.gov/Fact%20Sheets%20PDF%20holding/bring%20back%20natives.pdf
NJ DEP Recreational Trail Grants
The NJ DEP is providing more than $1.6 million in federal funds to improve, maintain, and develop trails statewide. The Recreational Trails Program grants will enhance open space and environmental resources and create urban and suburban corridors for more hiking, biking and horseback riding opportunities. Governmental agencies and non-profit organizations have until December 15 to apply for the 2006 funding. http://www.nj.gov/dep/parksandforests/natural/njtrails.html.
Why I Love My Pennsylvania State Park Contest for Kids
Jane Kirkland, naturalist and author of the award-winning Take A Walk Book series, is sponsoring the first annual, "Why I Love My Pennsylvania State Park" contest, open to children ages 8 to 12 who live in Pennsylvania.Children are invited to write an original essay, 50 words or less, about their state park and why they love it, focusing on the natural aspects in their park (plants and animals). Five First Prizes of a set of signed Take A Walk Books will be awarded-one in each age category. One Grand Prize Winner will be awarded one set of four Take A Walk Books and one pair of binoculars. The Grand Prize Winner will also help Ms. Kirkland and naturalist Kevin Loughlin lead a public nature walk or a nature program at the Pennsylvania State Park featured in the winning essay. Winners of the "Why I Love My Pennsylvania State Park" contest will be announced in March 2006. The deadline for entries is December 15. http://www.takeawalk.com/A5580D/tawhome.nsf/Contests?OpenPage
EPA Children's Environmental Health Excellence Awards
EPA's Office of Children's Health Protection is currently accepting applications for the 2006 Children's Environmental Health Excellence Awards. The awards recognize and honor leadership in protecting children from environmental health risks at the local, regional, national, and international level. The deadline for applications is December 15. http://yosemite.epa.gov/ochp/ochpweb.nsf/homepage
The Environmental Law Institute (ELI) is accepting nominations for the 2006 National Wetlands Awards. Since 1989, the National Wetlands Awards Program has provided an opportunity to recognize individuals who dedicate their time and energy to wetlands protection. The 2006 Awards will be given in six categories: 1) Education and Outreach; 2) Science Research 3) Conservation and Restoration; 4) Landowner Stewardship; 5) State, Tribal, and Local Program Development; and 6) Wetland Community Leader. Nominations are due by December 15. http://www2.eli.org/nwa/nwaprogram.htm
PA Coldwater Heritage Partnership Grants
The Coldwater Heritage Partnership (CHP) has announced the opening of the Coldwater Conservation Grants Program. The program is designed to help develop conservation plans that identify the values and threats to the health of coldwater ecosystems that have naturally reproducing trout. Applications for grants up to $5,000 will be accepted through December 16. http://www.coldwaterheritage.org
Western PA Watershed Mini-Grants
The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy announces a Watershed Mini-Grant program to provide funding to area watershed organizations in Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Blair, Butler, Cambria, Cameron, Clarion, Clearfield, Clinton, Crawford, Elk, Fayette, Franklin, Greene, Indiana, Jefferson, Juniata, Lawrence, McKean, Mercer, Potter, Somerset, Tioga, Venango, Washington and Westmoreland counties. The grants may be used for three primary categories: operating expenses, organizational promotion and outreach, or a restoration project. Individual grants will not exceed $1,000. The deadline to apply is December 15. http://www.paconserve.org/rc/wac.html
The Department of Labor and Industry is accepting applications from political subdivisions and state agencies for the Pennsylvania Conservation Corps (PCC) Program. Applications are due by January 6. The PCC program is designed to provide work experience and educational opportunities to unemployed young adults as they undertake needed projects on public lands in this Commonwealth. Grant recipients receive the services of a PCC crew (all wages paid) for one year. Recipients may also receive the funds to pay for the materials and contracted services needed (municipalities and school districts must supply a 25% cash match). http://www.dli.state.pa.us/landi/cwp/view.asp?a=145&q=194750
NOAA Open Rivers Initiative Grants
The NOAA Open Rivers Initiative is now accepting applications to fund projects to remove dams and other barriers in streams and rivers from now until January 13. Projects funded through ORI grants should have strong on-the-ground habitat restoration components that foster economic, educational, and social benefits for citizens and their communities in addition to long-term ecological habitat improvements for NOAA trust resources. http://www.nmfs.noaa.gov/habitat/restoration/projects_programs/crp/partners_funding/callforprojects3.html
PA Growing Greener Watershed Restoration Grants
The next round of PA DEP Watershed Restoration Grant Applications are due on March 3. For the upcoming grant round, DEP will invest in projects that seek to address nonpoint source pollution, such as comprehensive watershed plan implementation; legacy sediment and stream restoration; nutrient and sediment trading; long-term operation and maintenance for watershed projects and mine drainage treatment systems; urban and agricultural runoff; and upgrades to on-lot sewage systems. Eligible projects also could include reducing nonpoint source pollution in watersheds where streams are impaired; designing practices and activities that support water quality trading initiatives; integrating stormwater management and flood protection into watershed management; encouraging the beneficial use of abandoned mine pool water; and integrating air deposition controls and management with mitigating water quality problems. http://www.depweb.state.pa.us/growinggreener/site/default.asp
F. X. Browne, Inc. has been highly successful in past years with helping our clients acquire Growing Greener grant funding for watershed restoration and protection projects. For assistance in applying for and implementing PA Growing Greener Grants, please contact F. X. Browne, Inc. at info@fxbrowne.com.
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Reindeer have come to be associated with Christmas; as Santa is believed to have come from the far North, a reindeer drawn sled is most appropriate. But are there still wild reindeer about? The reindeer is man's most ancient herd animal. Up until about 12,000 years ago, reindeer grazed over a vast area of Europe. Rock paintings by primitive peoples featuring reindeer are widespread, as are discoveries of tools made from reindeer horn. Today, reindeer are herded by many Arctic peoples in Europe and Asia including the Sami in Lapland and the Nenets, Chukchi, and others in Russia. These peoples depend on the reindeer for almost everything in their economy including food, clothing and shelter. And although they can't fly, the reindeer ARE used to pull heavily laden sleds! Caribou, the name by which the Americans are more familiar with reindeer, comes from an Indian word. Reindeer and Caribou look different, but they probably are the same species. Caribou can be found above the tree-line in arctic North America and Greenland. |
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Events (Click on an event for more information)
PA Environmental Issues Forums On December 12, in Harrisburg, PA, the Pennsylvania Recycling Markets Center's (RMC) Executive Director Warren Weaver will describe the start-up of the RMC, its initial projects, and future plans. The RMC is seeking to expand existing recycling markets and create new ones across the Commonwealth. Environmental Issues Forums are open to the public. http://jcc.legis.state.pa.us/environmental_issues_forums.htm PA Watershed Organization Development Workshops The Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers announced that a new series of workshops on organizational development will be held in January in Eastern and Central Pennsylvania. The workshops are intended to address issues that confront watershed groups on a regular basis. For a complete list of workshops now scheduled, visit POWR’s Watershed Weekly webpage at http://www.pawatersheds.org/WWeekly/issue.asp?ID=268#orgDev Informational Meetings for New NY Brownfield Regulations The New York DEC has issued a draft proposal regarding a regulation that would incorporate Superfund/Brownfield law changes to the Inactive Hazardous Waste Disposal Site Remedial Program (State Superfund Program) and the Environmental Restoration Program (ERP), and provide regulations for the new Brownfield Cleanup Program (BCP). DEC will conduct seven public information meetings to present the draft regulation and respond to questions prior to required public hearings. http://www.dec.state.ny.us/website/environmentdec/2005b/publicmeetings110405.html
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St. Lucia's Day - December 13 Throughout Sweden the
feast day of Lucia is celebrated as a festival of lights. For the people
of Sweden and Norway, Lucia, or Lucy, was the great "light
saint" who turned the tides of their long winter and brought the
light of the day to renewed victory. On December 13 young women dressed
in a white gown and wearing a red sash and a crown of lingonberry twigs
and blazing candles (battery-operated candles nowadays) wake their families with
coffee and buns baked with saffron. Many villages choose a Lucia to
represent their town in parades and processions on Lucia Day. http://www.post-gazette.com/food/20011206saintlucia1206fnp2.asp St. Nicholas Day - December 6 In Germany, legend has it
that St. Nicholas
takes to the skies on a white horse on the eve of December 6. He is said to jump from roof to roof and down the chimney of each house.
There he finds children's shoes or baskets filled with hay for his
horse. He exchanges the hay for candy and toys and gold chocolate coins.
Early on the morning of the sixth, children awake to search eagerly for
their baskets and to enjoy the treasures the good saint has left. http://www.twilightbridge.com/hobbies/festivals/christmas/nicholas/netherlands.htm |
Link Of The Month
Sediment Assessment Methods Web Site Completed
The EPA's Office of Water recently finalized a new technical methods website designed to help watershed managers assess and restore waters with suspended or bedded sediment problems. The centerpiece of the Watershed Assessment of River Stability and Sediment Supply (WARSSS) website is a step-by-step, three-phase assessment methodology developed by Dr. David L. Rosgen for detecting sediment problems and source areas, estimating excessive sediment loads, and planning to restore normal sediment dynamics in streams and rivers. Besides the WARSSS methodology, the site also contains the entire sediment model WRENSS, a stream classification tutorial, and a large collection of links to clean sediment information and tools. http://www.epa.gov/warsss
For help with streambank assessment, streambank restoration, natural channel design, or bioengineering projects, please contact F. X. Browne, Inc. at info@fxbrowne.com.
| Interesting Christmas Tree Facts | |
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The first retail Christmas stand was set up in New York City in 1851 |
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Franklin Pierce was the first president to introduce the Christmas tree to the White House in 1856 for a group of Washington Sunday School children |
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The first public lighted Christmas tree was in Boston in 1912 |
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The first National Christmas Tree was lighted in the year 1923 on the White House lawn by President Calvin Coolidge |
| http://users.rcn.com/tlclcms/chrtree.htm | |
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New Tools and Publications |
CWP Small Urban Watershed Restoration Manual Released
The Center For Watershed Protection (CWP) recently released Manual 2: Methods to Develop Restoration Plans for Small Urban Watersheds. Joining Manuals 1, 4, 8, 10, and 11 in the Urban Subwatershed Restoration Series, Manual 2 helps tie the others together and provides a step-by-step approach to developing a restoration plan. http://www.cwp.org/PublicationStore/USRM.htm
Past EPA Watershed Academy Webcasts Available Online
EPA’s Watershed Academy has begun holding monthly Webcast seminars. For those who are not able to register for a Webcast, the audio version of Webcasts, as well as PowerPoint versions of the seminars, are available on EPA's website. The following Webcasts are currently posted:
- "Low Impact Development Strategies, Tools, and Techniques for Sustainable Watersheds," by Neil Weinstein, Executive Director, Low Impact Development Center, Beltsville, MD; broadcast on October 19, 2005
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"Phase II Stormwater," by Nikos Singelis, Office of Wastewater Management, U.S. EPA, Washington, DC; broadcast on November 16, 2005
Please visit http://www.epa.gov/owow/watershed/wacademy/webcasts/ to listen to or view past Webcasts or to sign up for future Webcasts. The next Webcast will be held on December 14, titled "Introduction to Trading for Water Quality Protection" by Lynda Hall, Office of Wetlands, Oceans and Watersheds, U.S. EPA, Washington, DC and Sonya Biorn-Hansen, Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.
Annual Chesapeake State of the Bay Report Released
The Chesapeake Bay Foundation released its annual State of the Bay Report, giving the Bay’s health a grade of “D.” The health index rating of 27 is unchanged for the third year in a row. The State of the Bay Report is a comprehensive measure of the Bay's health. For the report, CBF evaluates 13 indicators: oysters, shad, crabs, striped bass (rockfish), underwater grasses, wetlands, forested buffers, resource lands, toxics, water clarity, dissolved oxygen, and phosphorus and nitrogen pollution. CBF scientists compile and examine the best available historical and up-to-date information for each indicator and assign it an index score and letter grade. http://www.cbf.org/site/PageServer?pagename=sotb_2005_index
New Jersey Environmental Primer Created
The New Jersey Environmental Primer is a booklet produced by the New Jersey Commission on Environmental Education and the Interagency Work Group on Environmental Education, in partnership with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). The primer can help New Jersey residents understand environmental terms that are either a high priority for government and environmental leaders or are commonly used in environmental literature and media reports. The primer explains these terms with simple definitions or descriptions. Web site links follow each term so that readers can learn more. http://www.state.nj.us/dep/seeds/njcee/njprimerWeb.pdf
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F. X. Browne, Inc. – Environmental Consulting
F. X.
Browne, Inc.
Engineers – Planners – Scientists
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