F. X. Browne, Inc.

Lake and Watershed News

May 2006

Spring 

Soft mud yields
Under my feet,
Earth exhales –
Winter retreats.

~ Jen Drociak

Editors Note

May is American Wetlands Month. On May 10,  the National Wetlands Awards will be presented in Washington DC. 
May is also Watershed Awareness Month in Pennsylvania. 

Click on the above links to find activities in your area. 

 

Topic of the Month

A Review of Alternative On-Site Wastewater Technology

In last month's Lake and Watershed News, we discussed soil suitability mapping. The end result of the suitability mapping study is a set of maps depicting specific areas where either conventional septic fields or alternative on-site wastewater systems can be used. In some areas, decentralized wastewater systems are most appropriate. This month's feature article provides an overview of alternative on-site wastewater technologies.

As with any conventional septic system installation, soil testing is critical to determining the practicality of installing an alternative wastewater system. Depending on the site conditions, alternative designs such as elevated sand mounds, infiltration chamber systems, drip irrigation systems, low-pressure pipe systems, spray irrigation systems, or constructed wastewater treatment wetland systems may be used. In addition, several technologies exist that may help accelerate the wastewater treatment process and result in better pretreatment, including septic tank effluent filters and aerobic treatment units. Refer to state and local codes for specific information about wastewater system design criteria.

Elevated Sand Mounds

Figure 1: Typical Cross Section of an Elevated Sand Mound System
Source: Tobyhanna/Tunkhannock Creek Watershed Assoc.

Raised (elevated) sand mounds may be installed where soil depths are insufficient for a conventional on-lot septic system, or where conventional septic leach fields have failed and are in need of replacement. Elevated sand mound systems consist of distribution pipes in gravel trenches situated within a mound of sand and topsoil that is placed on top of the original soil, as shown in Figure 1. A properly designed and maintained sand mound has a design life of over 20 years; therefore, raised sand mounds are considered an adequate long-term wastewater disposal method.

Infiltration Chamber Distribution Systems

Infiltration Chamber Distribution Systems are similar to conventional systems in that pretreated effluent flows from a septic tank into the leach field and eventually percolates into the ground. The difference is that instead of perforated pipe and gravel, the leach field consists of specialized chambers that are designed to increase the surface area for wastewater treatment. Therefore, these systems typically afford greater design flexibility due to the smaller footprint required (up to a 50 percent smaller leach field area). A number of U.S. manufacturers and suppliers of proprietary leaching chamber distribution systems exist. In New Jersey, Infiltrator® Chamber Distribution Systems are approved for general use with certain conditions. The infiltration chambers are typically placed over either native soil or specified fill soil in the disposal trench(es) as shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2: Infiltrator Chamber Distribution System 
Source: Company Website

Drip Irrigation Systems

Drip irrigation systems apply treated wastewater to soil absorption fields slowly and uniformly from a network of narrow plastic, polyethylene or polyvinylchloride (pvc) tubing. The tubing is placed at shallow depths of usually six to 12 inches, in the plant root zone. The wastewater is pumped through the drip lines under pressure but drips slowly from a series of evenly spaced openings called "emitters." Wastewater must be pretreated and filtered prior to subsurface drip irrigation dispersal. One advantage to these systems is the minimal site disturbance required due to the flexible tubing that can be placed around trees and shrubs. The principal difference between drip irrigation systems and conventional on-lot wastewater systems is that irrigation systems are specifically designed to allow the water and nutrients to be used by plants.

Low Pressure Pipe Systems

Low pressure pipe (LPP) wastewater systems use one to two inch diameter plastic pipes with orifices (small spray holes) spaced 2.5 to 7.5 feet apart to deliver wastewater to the soil. A pump delivers effluent throughout the system on a regular basis as determined by a timer or the pump tank capacity. With this technology, absorption fields can be located upslope of the septic tank, or on uneven terrain that would otherwise be unsuitable for gravity flow systems.

Spray Irrigation Systems

Spray irrigation involves pumping pretreated effluent at 80 to 100 psi through nozzles and spraying it directly onto the land. Spray irrigation for wastewater disposal requires the availability of a relatively large parcel of suitable land for wastewater storage (lagoons) and disposal (spray field). However, spray irrigation systems require less usable soil depth beneath the spray field than conventional systems. Properly designed, maintained, and operated spray irrigation systems provide highly effective treatment of residential wastewater and allow for maximum recharge of groundwater, a benefit that is completely lost by small package and large community wastewater treatment facilities that use stream discharge for treated effluent. Many public facilities such as golf courses and parks are finding the beneficial reuse of treated wastewater to be a win-win situation: wastewater disposal, grounds fertilization, and drought relief are accomplished in one step.

Wastewater Treatment Wetlands

Constructed wastewater treatment wetlands utilize the nutrient-absorbing abilities of natural vegetation to treat wastewater. When properly constructed, wastewater wetlands are both attractive and effective. Constructed wetlands can offer an affordable solution to wastewater disposal in sites with failed conventional absorption fields, narrow or oddly-shaped lots, high water tables, and/or low soil percolation rates.

Two types of constructed wetlands exist: "free water surface" (FWS) wetlands, where wastewater runs through dense vegetation over a generally impervious soil surface, and "subsurface flow" (SSF) wetlands, in which the effluent runs beneath a coarse substrate such as a gravel bed matrix. Wastewater treatment wetlands can be less costly to construct and are usually less costly to maintain than traditional wastewater treatment systems. In addition, the wastewater treatment wetland recharges groundwater while providing habitat for wetland species.

The wetland system consists of a septic tank that discharges to the wetland bed. Vegetation that is adapted to saturated conditions is grown in the wetland bed, removing nutrients, organic matter, suspended solids, and pathogens from the effluent. The pretreated effluent from the wetland bed can then discharge to a land application system, as shown in Figure 3, or can be designed to be absorbed completely by the system.

Figure 3: Typical Constructed Wastewater Treatment System
Source: University of Nebraska Cooperative Extension

Alternative On-Lot Pretreatment Technologies

In many areas, septic tank effluent filters and aerobic treatment units are approved for general use with certain conditions. Aerobic treatment units (ATUs) pretreat wastewater by adding air to break down organic matter, reduce pathogens, and transform nutrients. Compared to conventional septic tanks, ATUs break down organic matter more efficiently, achieve quicker decomposition of organic solids, and reduce the concentration of pathogens in the wastewater.

Various septic tank effluent filter types and designs have been extensively tested and used in the United States. Some wastewater treatment filters use peat, pea gravel, crushed glass, shredded recycled tires, or other experimental media, but sand is the best understood and the most predictable media. The peat filter pretreats septic tank effluent by filtering it through a two-foot-thick layer of sphagnum peat before sending it to the soil treatment system. Peat is partially decomposed organic material with a high water-holding capacity, large surface area, and chemical and biological properties that make it very effective in treating wastewater. Unsterilized peat is also home to a number of different microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and tiny plants. All of these characteristics make peat a reactive and effective filter.

Many other pretreatment technologies exist for wastewater systems. Denitrification devices such as Recirculating Sand Filters (RSF) utilize an additional treatment chamber between the septic tank and the leach field as a means of discharging cleaner effluent with a lower nitrogen concentration. Effluent from the septic tank is pressurized and sprayed on a volume of sand in the filter chamber. Microorganisms in the sand break down organic matter and convert ammonia into nitrate as the effluent filters through the filter. When the effluent reaches the underdrain, a portion of the water enters the leach field and the rest re-circulates through the septic tank, where the nitrates are converted into nitrogen gas, an inert gas that can be vented to the atmosphere.

Alternative on-lot wastewater alternatives may require special approvals. Alternative wastewater systems require maintenance just like conventional septic systems, and they tend to have a higher failure rate due to improper maintenance and installation. Composting toilets and low-flow fixtures can be used to reduce the amount of wastewater entering a septic system, but should not be used in lieu of a functioning wastewater treatment system. Where alternative on-lot wastewater systems are not applicable, decentralized wastewater systems should be considered.

For more information on alternative wastewater systems or decentralized wastewater, contact info@fxbrowne.com.

Good News in PA Land Recycling 

The Pennsylvania Brownfield Action Team (BAT) is accelerating redevelopment deals and giving investors the incentive they need to clean up these sites and return them to productive use. Check out these impressive statistics:

  • Since being launched in 2004, BAT has helped 33 projects in 20 counties to redevelop more than 4,500 acres of brownfields, creating and retaining as many as 35,000 jobs.
  • Under the state’s Land Recycling Program, the state has cleaned up 2,194 contaminated and abandoned industrial sites, creating or retaining as many as 76,000 jobs since 1995.
  • More than 900 sites have been cleaned up and redeveloped, and 27,266 jobs have been created or retained since 2003.

http://www.ahs.dep.state.pa.us/newsreleases/default.asp?ID=3903  
For more information on brownfield redevelopment design, contact info@fxbrowne.com. 

 

News Clips


PA DEP Stormwater Manual Published for Comment

F. X. Browne Inc. President Dr. Frank Browne, PE and the rest of the PA DEP Oversight Committee are pleased to report that DEP has published notice of a new draft of the Pennsylvania Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual. DEP has scheduled public meetings to answer questions and accept comments.

The purpose of the draft manual is to establish recommended guidance for stormwater management utilizing best management practices in Pennsylvania. The draft manual will provide the planning concepts and design standards to guide local and state governments, planners, land developers, contractors, and others involved with planning, designing, reviewing, approving, and constructing land development projects in meeting those needs. Water quality components composed of structural and non-structural techniques and technologies are emphasized and integrated into the draft manual. 

In an effort to coordinate stormwater management identified in the draft manual, DEP also will publish a draft Stormwater Management Model Ordinance at a later date. It is anticipated that the draft Stormwater Management Model Ordinance will be discussed at the public meetings. PA DEP will accept public comments on the draft manual until June 14. http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/watermgt/wc/Subjects/StormwaterManagement/BMP%20Manual/BMP%20Manual.htm 

Lancaster County PA Funding 'Smart Growth' Projects

The Lancaster County commissioners want to see land developed, but they don't want to see sprawl. And they don't want that development to consume valuable natural areas or productive farmland.

Wednesday, the commissioners are expected to announce at their weekly meeting three new Smart Growth funding programs totaling $4.5 million this year for urban development and the preservation of natural areas and farmland. The new programs include:

  • The Urban Enhancement Fund would provide grants for projects such as the reuse of former factory and warehouse buildings in urban areas around the county.
  • The Natural Lands Preservation Fund would provide matching funds to the Lancaster County Conservancy to preserve primarily undeveloped woodlands.
  • The Farmland Preservation Fund would provide funds to Lancaster Farmland Trust to preserve farmland that would not otherwise be preserved by the county's Agricultural Preserve Board.

The total $12.5 million in funding is half the $25 million bond issue the commissioners expect to approve within a month. The other half will be spent in 2007 on the same programs. http://local.lancasteronline.com/4/21789 

Reduced Monitoring of Nation's Rivers a Concern

Stream scientists and public officials are worried that a decrease in federal funding for stream monitoring nationwide may lead to decreased warnings and response time in case of a flood. 

Some 7,400 stream gauges measure the level and flow of water in our nation's streams. The network of gauges, including temporary devices that can be installed at a spot that becomes worrisome, can help warn that a flood is on the way so people can move to higher ground. Without gauges, however, there are no data, and emergency officials can't meet their river forecast and warning mission. For example, In 1994, federal budget cuts led to the loss of a gauge on the Licking River at McKinneysburg, KY. Three years later, a flash flood on the Licking River inundated the town of Falmouth, six miles northwest, and killed four people. The furor over the incident led to more gauges and increased federal financing. But in the past few years, budget pressures have built up once more and the stream gauge is being questioned. River flooding kills about 125 people each year and costs billions of dollars in property damage, more deaths per year than are attributed to tornadoes or hurricanes. http://www.nytimes.com/2006/04/11/science/11stream.html 

Philadelphia Residents Discover it Pays to Recycle

RecycleBank, a Philadelphia- based non-profit group, encourages residents to recycle by simplifying the process and by distributing coupons to spend at local businesses.

RecycleBank has been covering about 5,000 homes in two Philadelphia neighborhoods and some areas of suburban Philadelphia since January 2005, improving one of the nation's worst recycling records. The program attracts users by allowing people to accumulate all their glass, plastic, aluminum, cardboard and newspaper in one container rather than requiring separate bins. The single recycle bin is emptied by the local garbage collector. Participating households also earn "RecycleBank dollars" which are accumulated according to the weight of recycled trash. The "dollars," up to $400 a year per household, are donated by about 150 local businesses, which seek to generate goodwill with shoppers and entice them with discounts of 10 or 20 percent. The city of Philadelphia benefits from the reduced amount of rubbish it must dispose of, and it pays half of the savings to RecycleBank. More than 90 percent of households in the pilot-program neighborhood now recycle, up from less than 25 percent at the beginning of 2005. But the city disputes that savings figure and has resisted taking RecycleBank citywide because it says the program would add to the city's costs by $12 million to $18 million a year. http://www.recyclebank.com/  

Reuters News Service 2006. 

For more information on developing recycling programs, contact info@fxbrowne.com. 


Policy Update
A five-year strategic plan being drafted by the EPA indicates  that the region will miss its goal of cleaning the Chesapeake by 2010, and likely by a wide margin. 
NYS DEC recently announced the beginning of construction on a new LEED-certified environmental education center at the Dr. Victor Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve in the Town of Cheektowaga, Erie County. 
The public has until May 17 to provide comments on a draft plan by the Susquehanna River Basin Commission regarding the management of Conowingo Pond, the 14-mile reservoir formed behind the Conowingo Dam on the lower Susquehanna River that straddles the Pennsylvania-Maryland state line.
Pennsylvania is investing $1.8 million to advance its innovative nutrient trading program through a unique partnership with the state’s agricultural community.
Audubon PA testified before the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee that over-browsing by too many deer causes over $314 million in damages and significant habitat loss in Pennsylvania’s forests-- $75 million in crop damage, $91 million in damage to foresn deer 
The PA Game Commission released its first ever plan to more effectively manage deer in urban/suburban landscapes, asking the public to offer comments on the draft by May 12. Also posted was more information on the Commission’s deer harvest estimate procedure.
EPA and the Army Corps of Engineers have released a proposed compensatory mitigation regulation that proposes improved science and results-oriented standards to increase the quality and effectiveness of wetlands conservation practices under the Clean Water Act. The public is invited to submit comments by May 30.
The New Jersey Superior Court, Appellate Division, upheld a  NJDEP rule that  places a protective 300-foot buffer on either side of "Category One" (C1) streams. 

 

 

Grant Programs 
(Click on a grant for more information)

 

2006 Compost Infrastructure Development Grant Program

 

Applications for the 2006 Compost Infrastructure Development Grant Program are now available from the PA DEP. The Department will accept applications for the Program until May 4.Under the program, qualified existing and operating for-profit business entities and nonprofit organizations in this Commonwealth will be awarded grants to increase the quantity of yard and/or food wastes collected and processed in Pennsylvania. The goal of this program is to increase the quantity of organic materials collected and composted to further increase the Commonwealth's recycling rate. Additional consideration will be given to applications that are developed in consultation with the Pennsylvania Recycling Markets Center. http://www.dep.state.pa.us/dep/deputate/airwaste/wm/recycle/compost_sum/CompostGrantApplication2006.doc 

 

PA Heritage Areas Program Grants

 

The PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources will accept applications for the Pennsylvania Heritage Areas Program through May 19. It is the intent of the Program to create a system of State designated Heritage Areas that preserve and interpret the significant contributions that various regions of this Commonwealth have made to the rich heritage of Pennsylvania and the United States. The historic, cultural, natural, scenic and recreational resources within a Heritage Area are inventoried, preserved, enhanced and promoted as a strategy to enhance regional economic development through the attraction of tourists, creation of new jobs, stimulation of small business growth, and the promotion of public and private investment opportunities. There are currently 12 designated State Heritage Areas. http://www.dcnr.state.pa.us/brc/heritageparks/ 

PA Landowner Incentive Program Grants

The Pennsylvania Game Commission and Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission have announced that conservation partners have until noon on May 31, to submit applications to receive federally-funded grants for high-priority habitat conservation projects for endangered, threatened and at-risk species across Pennsylvania. These federal dollars are being made available to the two agencies through the Landowner Incentive Program (LIP), which is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. LIP is designed to protect critical habitats, such as wetlands, stream buffers, grasslands, and old growth and mature forests. http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/pgc/cwp/view.asp?a=496&q=167429 

PA Game Commission Offers Seedlings for Habitat Improvement 

The PA Game Commission is again offering the "Seedlings for Habitat Program" that provides landowners with 50 or more acres of land open for hunting up to 500 free seedlings to improve habitat for wildlife. Those cooperators with enrolled acreages exceeding 500 acres are eligible for one free seedling per acre enrolled up to a maximum of 10,000 seedlings annually. New this spring, Pennsylvania landowners may purchase seedlings for wildlife food and cover, watershed protection, soil erosion control, and for reclamation of disturbed areas, such as surface mine site and utility right-of-ways.  http://www.pgc.state.pa.us/pgc/cwp/view.asp?A=480&Q=167303

Chesapeake Bay Trust Pioneer Grants 

The Chesapeake Bay Trust is soliciting proposals for its 2006 Pioneer Grants Program which are due May 19. The Pioneer Grants Program is designed to encourage and promote innovative ideas, creative partnerships, and cutting-edge projects that advance Bay restoration. This year the Pioneer Grants Program will focus on best management practices in agriculture and land development. Grants of up to $150,000 will be awarded. http://www.cbtrust.org/grantprograms.html#pioneer 

PFBC Boating Facilities Grants 

 

The PA Fish and Boat Commission is encouraging county and municipal governments interested in the planning, acquisition, development, expansion, or rehabilitation of public boating facilities to apply for funding through the Boating Facility Grant Program. Applications are due June 30. Applicants can seek grants for site acquisition, project design and engineering, development, expansion and major rehabilitation of recreational boat access facilities. Activities must benefit and directly support public recreational boating. Eligible construction projects include: boat ramps, courtesy floats, restrooms, access roads, parking areas, landscaping in direct relation to access development, transient tie-up floats, and signs. Successful applicants must agree to provide a 25 percent grant match and be willing to enter into a long-term agreement to keep the facility open to free public use for its useful life. 

 

NY Environmental Funding

 

NY DEC announced that applications are being accepted for proposed projects eligible for funding from the New York State Environmental Protection Fund (EPF), the Clean Water/Clean Air Bond Act (Bond Act), and the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). These funding sources provide State assistance for many community environmental projects. Grant applications and guidance documents have been developed for the following programs: Park, Historic Preservation and Heritage Areas System Grant Programs administered by OPRHP; Environmental Restoration Program administered by DEC; Hudson River Estuary Grant Program administered by DEC; Brownfield Opportunity Areas (BOA) Program administered jointly by DEC and DOS; and Local Waterfront Revitalization and Quality Communities Programs administered by DOS. http://www.dec.state.ny.us/website/environmentdec/2006a/envirgrants032306.html 

PA Small Wind Power Systems Available

PEDA and Southwest Windpower, the world’s largest producer of small wind turbines, are inviting Pennsylvania municipalities, public authorities and school districts to apply to participate in the PEDA Small-Scale Community Wind Project. Successful applicants will receive one of the Southwest Windpower small-scale wind systems and basic installation at no charge. Recipients must pay the fee to connect to the grid, as well as any cost above basic installation (for example, if special ground work is needed to prepare the site). The recipients also will provide public outreach and education. The wind energy systems will be mounted in the ground on 35-foot towers and generate 1.8 kilowatts of electricity each, enough to meet the needs of a typical home. The units are valued at $10,000 each. http://www.ahs.dep.state.pa.us/newsreleases/default.asp?ID=3883 

NJ Farmland Preservation Grants

 

The NJ State Agriculture Development Committee is soliciting applications for the preservation of high-priority farms under two state acquisition programs. The SADC's Direct Easement Purchase Program enables landowners to capitalize on the development potential of their land by selling their development rights. They retain ownership of the land but agree to deed restrictions that permanently protect the land from non-agricultural development. The SADC's Fee Simple Program buys farmland outright from willing landowners. Those farms then are resold at public auction with deed restrictions permanently preserving them for agricultural use. http://www.state.nj.us/agriculture/sadc/p032806.doc 

 

Litterbugs Come in All Shapes and Sizes 

Studies of littering behavior indicate that certain individuals have specific methods of operation when they deposit litter. The environmental and social group Community Change has characterized types of litterers, including:    

  • “Wedgers” tend to wedge their litter into small cracks or spaces 
  • “90 Percenters” appropriately discard their potential litter 90 percent of the time, but litter 10 percent of the time for no apparent reason 
  • “Foul Shooters” try to toss their trash toward a waste receptacle, but will not pick it up if they miss  
  • “Inchers” abandon their waste then inch slowly away from it, pretending they have done nothing wrong 
  • “Surreptitious Releasers” litter in a casual, secretive way as they go about their business 
  • “Flingers” openly toss their litter about, almost as an act of defiance 
  • “Undertakers” go to great efforts to bury their waste, as on a beach

 

Events 
 (Click on an event for more information)

EPA Watershed Webcasts

The US EPA will be holding their next Watershed Webcast on May 19. The Webcast will feature Tom Schueler from the Center for Watershed Protection who will discuss integrating wetlands into watershed protection efforts. Audio versions of this and other past Webcasts are available on the website. http://www.epa.gov/watershedwebcasts.

PA Dirt and Gravel Road Maintenance Workshops

The Center for Dirt & Gravel Roads and Penn State University will be holding their Environmentally Sensitive Maintenance (ESM) Training. The ESM training provides basic knowledge and tools necessary to maintain roads in a more cost-efficient and environmentally sensitive manner. The training is directed towards Municipalities, the Bureau of Forestry, and others entities responsible for unpaved road maintenance.Workshops will be held on the following dates and locations:

  • May 23 & 24 - Erie County

  • June 13 & 14 - Sullivan County

  • July 12 & 13 - Butler / Beaver / Lawrence / Armstrong Counties

 http://www.mri.psu.edu/centers/cdgrs/education_training/esm_training/esm_training.html  

PA Tree Tender Workshop

TreeVitalize, a partnership to restore tree cover in the five-county region in Southeastern Pennsylvania, is offering “Tree Tender” classes this Spring on how to plant and care for trees. During nine hours of Tree Tender training, participants will learn about tree biology, identification, pruning and root care, as well as how to fundraise, manage volunteers, and work with local government. Students are expected to volunteer time to community tree planting projects in exchange for training. Groups also may qualify for free or discounted trees upon completing the program. http://www.pennsylvaniahorticulturalsociety.org/phlgreen/tree-training.html. 
Classes will be held at the following locations and dates:

  • Philadelphia: Pennsylvania Horticultural Society - May 10, 17 and 24, 5:45 to 8:45 p.m.

PA Conservation Zoning Workshop 

Local officials, planning commission members and interested citizens are invited to a “Putting Conservation into Local Codes” workshop in Harrison City, Westmoreland County, PA on May 4. The program will give participants practical information on how to do conservation zoning and subdivision under the Growing Greener by Design handbook developed by the Natural Lands Trust and the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. http://www.smartgrowthpa.org/event_detail.asp?ID=585 

2006 River Rally

The annual River Rally is the most widely anticipated training opportunity for river conservation organizations and watershed partnerships in the nation. The Rally will be held on May 5-9 at Bretton Woods, NH. Participants include volunteer board members, staff members, experienced leaders and new watershed protection enthusiasts. The Center for Watershed Protection will be presenting a Mini-Watershed Institute track during the Rally. http://www.rivernetwork.org/rally/index.cfm
Two pre-conferences will precede the Rally:

EPA Stormwater Webcasts

EPA is announcing a new series of webcast training sessions for municipal stormwater managers. Designed for those unable to attend out-of-town or multi-day workshops, this series will provide a mix of basic and advanced topics in two-hour blocks. Webcasts will be scheduled approximately every other month from through September. http://www.epa.gov/npdes/training Future topics and tentative dates are:

Construction 101 - May 20
 Stormwater Utilities 201 - July 12 
Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) 101 (with the Center for Watershed Protection) - September 13  

National Water Quality Trading Conference

The Second National Water Quality Trading Conference will be held May 23-25 in Pittsburgh, PA. This conference will highlight the economic and environmental benefits of water quality trading. This conference will explore opportunities and challenges associated with developing trading programs. http://www.farmfoundation.org 

EPA Science Forum

The US EPA will hold their annual Science Forum on May 16-18 at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington DC. This year's Forum highlights advances in science, explores the relationship between our environment and public health, and examines the complementary roles of Federal public health agencies. The 2006 Forum, "Your Health, Your Environment, Your Future," will feature the collaborative efforts of the Environmental Protection Agency, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences. http://www.epa.gov/scienceforum/ 

Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference - VT

The New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission (NEIWPCC)'s 17th Annual Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference will be held in Burlington, Vermont on May 22-24. The conference brings together all those in New England and New York State involved in NPS pollution management, including participants from state, federal, and municipal governments; consulting firms; academia; and watershed organizations. http://www.neiwpcc.org/Index.htm?npsconference/index.htm~mainFrame 

PA Environmental Professionals Annual Conference 

The Pennsylvania Association of Environmental Professionals will hold their annual conference on May 17-19 in State College; the theme this year is "Career Development for Pennsylvania's Environmental Professionals." The conference features tracks in Career Development, Regulatory Updates, Pollution Prevention/Energy Efficiency, and Endangered Species. A new feature of this year's program will be "Traveling Workshops" that include site visits to the I-99 Acid Rock Drainage Remediation Site, a first-hand look at the cutting edge stormwater BMPs in place at Penn State's new Visitor's Center, and a tour of the Penn State Nuclear Research Reactor. http://www.paep.org/annual_conference.htm 

Potomac River Ramble

The Interstate Commission on the Potomac River Basin is sponsoring two Potomac River "rambles" to bring participants closer to an understanding of the Potomac River by teaching about the river's ecology, history, geology, and environmental issues. There will be a spring and fall ramble. American shad will be the topic of discussion and culinary delight during the spring Ramble on the tidal Potomac from May 19-21. http://www.potomacriver.org/ 

PA Municipal Recreation and Land Use Planning Workshops

The PA State Association of Township Supervisors One Source Training Program is hosting a series of workshops around the state on funding municipal recreation and parks programs and an introduction to land use planning. Modest registration fees are charge and pre-registration is encouraged. Workshops are being held during the month of May in various locations as listed on the website. http://www.psats.org/onesource_courses.html 

PA Riparian Buffers and Invasive Plants Workshops

PA DEP and DCNR will hold a workshop on Riparian Buffers and Invasive Plants at the Nolde Forest Environmental Education Center in Berks County on May 18. Topics to be covered include invasive plant identification, control of invasive plants and establishing and maintaining a riparian buffer. The course is designed for conservation districts, watershed groups, municipalities, master gardeners and landowners. Attendees will receive wildflower field guide, a tree identification book, a riparian invasive plant identification book and many other useful materials. http://www.paenvironmentdigest.com/newsletter/default.asp?NewsletterArticleID=4194 

PA Urban Watersheds Revitalization Conference 

The Urban Watershed Revitalization Conference will be held in Philadelphia and Villanova on May 18 and 19. The Conference will feature presentations on projects that will demonstrate stormwater best management practices versus standard stormwater management and opportunities to monitor the impact of development on the local economy, environment, community, and neighborhood aesthetics. Participants will have the opportunity to network with other attendees, learn about success stories and obstacles faced by other communities, and participate in the first Stormwater BMP Recognition Awards Ceremony. http://www.greentreks.org/pec/conference.asp 

Pennsylvania One Call Outdoor Safety Days

PA One Call will hold an Outdoor Safety event on May 18 on the grounds of the Dauphin County Technical School in Harrisburg, PA. This free event will offer opportunities for education and fun in areas of underground safety and damage prevention. Outdoor demonstrations include locating, ground penetrating radar, soft excavation technology and techniques, trench shoring and a live trench rescue drill. There will also be a backhoe rodeo, educational breakout sessions and exhibitors offering the latest in underground safety. There will be plenty of freebies including lunch, door prizes, and a free excavation safety guide. Two similar events are scheduled at the Schnecksville Fire Company fairgrounds near Allentown on June 29 and at the Cranberry Township Public Works facility north of Pittsburgh on September 14. http://www.pa1call.org/WebSite/Events/2006_programs/2006_PA_Safety_Days.htm 

NY Stormwater Phase II Workshops

EPA will be holding "Getting in Step with Phase II: A Workshop for Stormwater Program Managers" on May 31 - June 2 in Albany, NY. The workshop provides in-depth training on Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination, Post-Construction Runoff Controls, Construction Management, and Public Education and Involvement. http://cfpub2.epa.gov/npdes/courseinfo.cfm?program_id=0&outreach_id=200&schedule_id=921 

PA Stream Ecology Teacher Education Program 

The Pennsylvania Institute for Conservation Education is sponsoring a teacher education program on aquatic insects and stream ecology on June 3-4 in Lycoming County. During this class, participants will learn from a recognized expert how to identify aquatic insects that live in the streams and rivers of Pennsylvania with plenty of "hands-on" instruction on the use of dichotomous keys to identify specimens of aquatic insects and their relatives. Sampling, collection, and preservation techniques for aquatic insects will also be addressed. In early evening, there will be free time provided for anglers to learn the art and skill of fly fishing and fish some of Pennsylvania's pristine streams (fly rods and gear provided). Act 48 credits are available. http://www.piceweb.org/index.htm

NJ Stream Restoration Conference

The Annual Conference of the Mid-Atlantic Sections of the American Water Resources Association will be held in Branchville, NJ on June 14-16. The title of the conference is "Stream Restoration and Protection in the Mid-Atlantic Region."  http://awra.org/state/new_jersey/mac2006/

Free Summer Watershed Institute for Eastern PA Teachers

The Stroud Water Research Center will hold a Watershed Tour Summer Institute for teachers on June 26-29. The institute, titled "Explore, Create, Get Wet" is free and open to all upper elementary and middle school teachers in small urban centers within Chester, Montgomery and Delaware counties. Participants will learn the science of streams and where drinking water comes from. All participants will receive a copy of "Watershed Tour," a curriculum developed by the Stroud Center staff, offering hands-on classroom activities with a follow-up outdoor investigation at several different sites. Participants will receive 24 hours of Act 48 Continuing Professional Education hours. Registration deadline June 3. http://www.stroudcenter.org/education

 

American Rivers Most Endangered Rivers of 2006:

  1. Pajaro River (California) 
  2. Upper Yellowstone River (Montana) 
  3. Willamette River (Oregon) 
  4. Salmon Trout (Michigan) 
  5. Shenandoah River (Virginia, West Virginia) 
  6. Boise River (Idaho) 
  7. Caloosahatchee River (Florida) 
  8. Bristol Bay (Alaska) 
  9. San Jacinto River (Texas) 
  10. Verde River (Arizona) 

http://www.americanrivers.org/site/PageServer?pagename=AMR_MER2006   

 

 

Link Of The Month

 

The Greater Philly Environmental Network (GPEN) is a new website and email newsletter that ties together "All Things Environmental" in Southeastern PA. GPEN has been developed for the growing number of people curious about topics such as organic and locally grown produce, open space preservation, stormwater management, environmental health issues, and appliances and building materials that save energy, water, and other natural resources. GPEN's goal is to connect the thousands of people and organizations in the Southeastern PA region interested in environmental issues and activities, fostering active citizenship, community ties, and encouraging people to spend more time outside of our homes, offices, and cars. http://www.GPEN.org

 

What Does Mom Really Want...Or NOT Want....For Mother's Day? 
According to wishlist.com, the best Mother's Day gifts are: 

Handmade gifts: 13 percent  
Jewelry: 12 percent  
Flowers: 12 percent  
Spa/massage pampering: 8 percent 
Getaway trip: 8 percent 

The Worst Mother's Day Gifts are:

Nothing: 16 percent  
Household appliances: 11 percent Cooking/cleaning supplies: 7 percent 
Socks: 6 percent  
Non-fitting clothes: 6 percent

 

 

New Tools and Publications

 

EPA Watershed Training Opportunities Booklet 

 

EPA’s updated Watershed Training Opportunities booklet highlights watershed training opportunities sponsored by EPA’s Watershed Academy. The booklet provides information on live training courses, Web-based training, Webcasts, documents and videos, and Web sites. http://www.epa.gov/owow/watershed/wacademy/wtopps.html 

CWP Smart Watershed Benchmarking Tool

The Center for Watershed Protection (CWP) has released a self-assessment tool to help local communities integrate and align their urban watershed programs to meet their water resource goals. Local watershed groups can also use this tool to determine how their community compares to others and to work with their local governments to encourage adoption of practices that would improve scores. The tool includes: an overview of smart watershed programs and a description of their application for local communities; step-by-step guidance on how to complete the tool and interpret community scores; case studies and tips for implementing the programs; and further details on restoration budgeting. http://www.cwp.org/#swbt 

Bay Program Reports Highlight Need For Increased Federal Funding

Two reports issued recently by the Chesapeake Bay Program demonstrate the need for increased federal funding if Chesapeake Bay restoration goals are to be met, according to the Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF). The reports analyze the health of the Bay and assess restoration efforts currently underway. The reports find that the Bay is in trouble, and that current levels of funding are insufficient to achieve the commitments made to restore its health by 2010. The reports on the health of the Bay find poor dissolved oxygen levels, declining water clarity, and increased algal blooms. The good news for restoration efforts is that nitrogen and phosphorus pollution from sewage treatment plants have been significantly reduced, and more reductions are expected as a result of new permit limits and plant upgrades that are in the pipeline. However both federal and state funding to help farmers reduce pollution from agriculture has been inadequate. http://www.cbf.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=13939&security=1&news_iv_ctrl=1081 http://www.cbf.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=14179&security=1&news_iv_ctrl=1081 

 

Newsletter Editor/Design: 
Rebecca Buerkett

 

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