~Sitting quietly,

doing nothing,

spring comes,

and the grass grows by itself~

~ Zen Proverb

 

Editors Note

You Can Help with the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill! Donate your Hair and your Old Nylon Stockings!

 

Matter of Trust: Hair and Nylon Stockings for Oil Spills Program
This non-profit organization is collecting hair clippings and nylon stockings for the Gulf oil spill.  Hair is very efficient at collecting oil, and can be stuffed into nylon stockings to create booms that contain and soak up oil spills.  They also use the hair to make mats for spills and for oiled bird and mammal cages.  To get involved, spread the word and talk to your stylist/barber about the program.   Salons can collect their hair clippings and use them for a great cause! Their website provides information, drop-off and mail locations, flyers, brochures, and more.  Check it out!
http://www.matteroftrust.org/programs/hairmatsinfo.html

 

~ Lisen Cummings, Sustainable Environments Editor/Designer

 

Feature Article

Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

In addition to tragically losing the lives of 11 workers, The Deepwater Horizon oil spill off the coast of Louisiana is gearing up to be one of the largest ecological disasters of our lives.  We have compiled sources of information and news to keep you informed of the past, current and future efforts to limit this disaster.  As of May 13, 2010, approximately 13,000 personnel have been deployed, over 510 vessels are responding, over 1.5 million feet of boom have been deployed, nearly 4 million gallons of oil-water mix have been recovered, approximately 436,000 gallons of dispersant have been deployed, and 14 staging areas have been set up to protect vital shoreline.

CONTACT INFO

Deepwater Horizon Incident Joint Information Center
(985) 902-5231 and (985) 902-5240

Report oiled shoreline or request volunteer information:
(866)-448-5816

Submit alternative response technology, services or products:
(281) 366-5511

Submit your vessel as a vessel of opportunity skimming system:
(281) 366-5511

Submit a claim for damages:
(800) 440-0858

Report oiled wildlife:
(866) 557-1401

Gulf Response Involvement Team (G.R.I.T.):  Volunteers Interested in Assisting in Oil Clean-Up in Louisiana Should Sign Up and Stand By
http://gulfresponse.org/

 

INFORMATION SOURCES 

The BP website provides detailed information on their response, including press releases, fact sheets, photos, maps and more.
http://www.bp.com/productlanding.do?categoryId=40&contentId=7061696

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has launched a website on the impacts of the spill and their response.
http://www.epa.gov/bpspill/

The Deepwater Horizon Response website provides information on the response from the U.S. Coast Guard and other responding agencies.
http://www.deepwaterhorizonresponse.com/go/site/2931/

NASA Satellite Imagery: Keeping Eye on the Gulf Spill provides satellite imagery of the oil spill.
http://www.nasa.gov/topics/earth/features/oil-creep.html

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) website provides up-to-date information, fact sheets, trajectory maps, and more.
http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/topic_subtopic_entry.php?RECORD_KEY%28entry_subtopic_topic%29=entry_id,subtopic_id,topic_id&entry_id(entry_subtopic_topic)=809&subtopic_id(entry_subtopic_topic)=2&topic_id(entry_subtopic_topic)=1

CNN’s Interactive Oil Spill Tracking Map shows the past and present movement of the spill.
http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/04/29/interactive.spill.tracker/index.html

 

NEWS ARTICLES

Here are some interesting articles detailing the tragedy and efforts to date to correct the problem.  They are arranged chronologically.

Oil Rig Explosion Injures Workers and Causes Raging Fire off Louisiana Coast
By Michael Murray, ABC World News, April 21, 2010
http://abcnews.go.com/WN/oil-rig-explosion-drilling-rig-off-louisiana-coast/story?id=10437155

Why It’s so Tough to Stop the Gulf Oil Leak
Host: Neal Conan, Talk of the Nation, NPR, April 29, 2010
http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=126390880&ft=1&f=1025

Last Resort Safety Device Failed in Fatal Drilling Incident
By Joe Carroll and Mark Chediak, April 30, 2010, Bloomberg.com
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601072&sid=a2..tsZGi8tQ

NASA Satellite Imagery Keeping Eye on the Gulf Oil Spill
ScienceDaily, May 1, 2010
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/04/100430131155.htm

Climate Bill Could be Harmed by Gulf Spill
By Matthew Daly and Noaki Schwartz (AP), May 2, 2010
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5g1ILRRkcNjneF_bdAFEM39f6F-dAD9FECLIO0

U.S. Presses BP to Stop Gushing Gulf Coast Oil Leak
By Matthew Bigg, Reuters, May 3, 2010, Environmental News Network
http://www.enn.com/top_stories/article/41281

President Obama – We’ll Do ‘Whatever It Takes’ To Stop This Oil Crisis
By Scott Horsley, NPR, May 3, 2010, Environmental News Network
http://www.enn.com/top_stories/article/41280

BP Oil Rig’s Sinking and Gushing Crude Raise Questions
By Janet Raloff, ScienceNews, May 3, 2010
http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/58817/title/BP_oil_rig%E2%80%99s_sinking_and_gushing_crude_raise_questions

Envisat Monitoring Changes in Oil Spill
ScienceDaily, May 4, 2010
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/05/100503111529.htm

BP Aims to Stop Gulf Well Leak by Installing Valve (Update1)
By Jim Polson and Katarzyna Klimasinska, Bloomberg Businessweek, May 4, 2010
http://www.businessweek.com/news/2010-05-04/bp-aims-to-stop-gulf-well-leak-by-installing-valve-update1-.html

Recovery Efforts After Gulf Coast Oil Spill Could Be as Damaging as Its Cause, Wetlands Expert Says
ScienceDaily, May 4, 2010
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/05/100504135520.htm

Caution Required for Gulf Oil Spill Clean-Up, Bioremediation Expert Says
ScienceDaily, May 4, 2010
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/05/100504142110.htm

Gulf Oil Spill a Slow-Motion Hurricane: Timing of Landfall Could be Key to Damage
By Janet Raloff, ScienceNewsMay 4, 2010
http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/58846/title/Gulf_oil_spill_a_slow-motion_hurricane

Delicate Work Unfolds a Mile Beneath the Gulf; Engineers Operate Submarines Via Joystick
By Harry R. Weber and Ray Henry, Associated Press Writers, Chicago Tribune, May 5, 2010
http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/sns-ap-us-gulf-oil-spill-fixes,0,6475847.story

U.S. Exempted BP's Gulf of Mexico Drilling From Environmental Impact Study
By Juliet Eilperin, Washington Post, May 5, 2010
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/05/04/AR2010050404118.html?sid=ST2010050405322

A Gulf Spill News Review: As Oil Approaches the Coast, New Drilling is Underway and Temporary Oil-trapping Technologies are Deployed
By Janet Raloff, ScienceNews, May 5, 2010
http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/58882/title/A_Gulf_spill_news_review

Unable to Stanch Oil, BP Will Try to Gather It
By Sam Dolnick and Henry Fountain, The New York Times, May 5, 2010
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/06/science/06container.html

Corps Looks At Water Diversions To Protect Louisiana Coast
By Angelle Bergeron, ENR.com, Engineering News-Record, May 5, 2010
http://enr.ecnext.com/coms2/article_inen100505OilWaterDive

Gulf Coast Oil Spill:  Health Questions
By Gina Solomon, MD, MPH, NRDC Simple Steps, May 5, 2010
http://www.simplesteps.org/articles/gulf-coast-oil-spill-health-questions

Breton National Wildlife Refuge Closed to Public Entry
The first shoreline impact was confirmed at Breton National Wildlife Refuge on May 5, 2010.  Oil was found on both sides of the southern half of the Chandeleur Islands.
May 7, 2010
https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/2931/541699/

NOAA Expands Commercial and Recreational Fishing Closure in Oil-Affected Portion of Gulf of Mexico
May 7, 2010
http://sero.nmfs.noaa.gov/

Officials Look to Mississippi River to Help in Oil-Spill Fight
By Brian Winter, USA Today, May 7, 2010
http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/environment/2010-05-06-oil-river_N.htm

Media Advisory: Tarballs Recovered from Dauphin Island, Ala.
Deepwater Horizon Response News Advisory, May 8, 2010
https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/2931/542947/

Media Advisory: Oil Spill Rescued Birds to be Released Monday‏
Deepwater Horizon Response News Advisory, May 9, 2010
https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/2931/543275/

Nitrogen-Cement Mix Is Focus of Gulf Inquiry
By Justin Gillis and John M. Broder, The New York Times, May 10, 2010
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/11/us/11hearings.html

Two Oil Firms Link Rig Blast to 'Plug'
By Russell Gold, Stephen Power, and Vanessa O’Connell, The Wall Street Journal, May 11, 2010
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052748704879704575236553480511416.html?mod=dist_smartbrief

Photo Release:  Beach Cleaning/Insertion Tube Option
Deepwater Horizon Response, May 11, 2010
https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/2931/548915/

Video Release:  Crater Plume Gassing
This video shows the oil and gas stream from the larger of the two existing leaks on the riser of the Deepwater Horizon well. 
Deepwater Horizon Response, May 11, 2010
https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/2931/548775/

Tarballs on Dauphin Island Beaches Believed to Be From Gulf Spill
Deepwater Horizon Response, May 12, 2010
https://www.piersystem.com/go/doc/2931/548987/

Rush to Drill Deeper Carries Added Risks
By Mike Baker and Jason Dearen, The Associated Press, May 12, 2010
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5iJEtui-hzwaWwmm69UWEJPINdD3gD9FLBR600

Senate Gets a Climate and Energy Bill, Modified by a Gulf Spill That Still Grows
By John M. Broder, The New York Times, May 12, 2010
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/13/science/earth/13climate.html

Oil Spill Investigators Find Critical Problems in Blowout Preventer
By Steven Mufson and David A. Fahrenthold, The Washington Post, May 13, 2010
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/05/12/AR2010051202190.html?hpid=topnews&sid=ST2010051102889

House Panel:  Flaws in the Well
The Washington Post, May 13, 2010
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/graphic/2010/05/12/GR2010051205263.html?tid=grpromo

 

ALTERNATIVE CLEANUP TECHNOLOGIES

Below are some articles showcasing new technologies and ideas for oil cleanups. 

Scientists Harness Virtual Reality to Aid Oil Spill Cleanup Effort
By Ariel Schwartz, May 4, 2010, Inhabitat.com
http://inhabitat.com/2010/05/04/scientists-harness-virtual-reality-to-aid-gulf-oil-spill-cleanup-effort/

“Rock Breathing” Bacteria Could Help Soak Up Oil Spill in Gulf
By Brit Liggett, May 4, 2010, Inhabitat.com
http://inhabitat.com/2010/05/04/rock-breathing-bacteria-could-help-soak-up-oil-spill-in-gulf/

Oil Spill Cleanup Goes Low Tech With Hair Booms
USA Today, May 4, 2010
http://content.usatoday.com/communities/greenhouse/post/2010/05/oil-spill-cleanup-goes-low-tech-with-hair-booms-/1

Officials Weigh Pros, Cons of Using Dispersant Chemicals on Gulf Spill
By Caleb Hellerman, CNN, May 4, 2010
http://www.cnn.com/2010/US/05/04/gulf.oil.spill.dispersant/

5 Innovative Solutions That Clean Up Oil Spills
By Yuka Yoneda, Inhabitat.com, May 5, 2010
http://inhabitat.com/2010/05/05/top-5-green-ways-to-clean-up-oil-spills/

 

PLANTS AND WILDLIFE

The oil spill will negatively impact the plants, wildlife and ecosystems in its path.  The Gulf of Mexico is home to 10 species of threatened sharks, 6 species of endangered turtles, manatees, whales and fish within its deeper waters.  Dozens of species of fish and shellfish also lay their eggs on the surface of the water.  Oil spills affect the smallest and largest marine life, and threaten life up and down the food chain.  For more detailed information, read the article below.
Concerns Up and Down the Food Chain
By Leslie Kaufman, the New York Times, May 4, 2010
http://www.nytimes.com/2010/05/05/science/earth/05ecology.html

Here are some interesting links to information and articles on issues relating to the plants and wildlife that could be affected.

Spills Effects Underwater Fact Sheet
The New York Times, May 5, 2010
http://www.nytimes.com/imagepages/2010/05/05/us/05ecology_graphic1.html?ref=earth

NOAA Closes Commercial and Recreational Fishing in Oil-Affected Portion of Gulf of Mexico
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, May 2, 2010

NOAA’s Oil and Sea Turtle Webpage
http://response.restoration.noaa.gov/topic_subtopic_entry.php?RECORD_KEY%28entry_subtopic_topic%29=entry_id,subtopic_id,topic_id&entry_id%28entry_subtopic_topic%29=9&subtopic_id%28entry_subtopic_topic%29=13&topic_id%28entry_subtopic_topic%29=1

Caribbean Conservation Corporation - Sea Turtle Threats: Oil Spills
http://www.cccturtle.org/seaturtleinformation.php?page=oilspills

In the Crosshairs— Louisiana’s Rich Wildlife Is At Risk
This blog provides a link to a field guide that provides information on the many plant and animal species in the area.
April 30, 2010
http://wild.enature.com/blog/louisianas-rich-wildlife-is-at-risk/?utm_source=eNature+Master+List&utm_campaign=e74a7a1d06-On_the_Wild_Side_April_20104_30_2010&utm_medium=email

The Nature Conservancy’s Oyster Reef Restoration Map
http://www.nature.org/popups/features/art31456.html

The Nature Conservancy’s Shellfish Restoration Network
http://www.nature.org/initiatives/marine/strategies/shellfish.html

Wildlife Still Exposed to Exxon Valdez Oil 20 Years After Disaster
ScienceDaily, April 14, 2010
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/04/100414111018.htm

 

 

News Clips

 

Policy Update

EPA Releases Review of Federal Drinking Water Standards and Proposes New Strategy for Protecting Drinking Water

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) completed the second review of the National Primary Drinking Water regulations under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA).  They published the findings in the Federal Register on March 29, 2010.  They found that out of 71 existing  regulations for contaminants, 4 are in need of revision.  This includes regulations governing acrylamide, epichlorohydrin, tetrachloroethylene, and trichloroethylene.  A new drinking water protection strategy was announced by EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson and includes addressing contaminants as a group, fostering new drinking water treatment technologies, using the authority of multiple statutes, and partnering with states to share data.

For more information, visit http://www.epa.gov/safewater/sdwa/dwstrategy.html

For information on the six-year review, visit http://www.epa.gov/safewater/review.html

 

EPA Initiates Hydraulic Fracturing Study

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will perform a scientific study to determine the potential impact hydraulic fracturing has on water quality, public health, and the environment.  Hydraulic fracturing is used to release natural gas buried in shale formations.  The study will determine the safety of this technique, and help develop future policies and regulations.  For information on hydraulic fracturing, visit http://www.epa.gov/ogwdw000/uic/wells_hydrofrac.html 

For more information on the EPA Science Advisory Board, visit http://www.epa.gov/sab

 

EPA Proposes “Next Generation” Storm Water Controls in Clean Water Permit for Washington D.C. - Enhanced Protections for the Anacostia River and Chesapeake Bay

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a proposed permit to the District of Columbia requiring them to continue improving their Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) program for controlling stormwater runoff.  The permit requires the District to take steps that were not required by the old permit issued in 2004.  They will have to promote low impact development and green infrastructure, complying with strict discharge limits, increased monitoring of total maximum daily loading (TMDL), and controlling and reducing trash.  The EPA is accepting comments until June 4, 2010. 

EPA News Release, April 21, 2010

http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/0/ECF0FC0431AFBF0B8525770C006EA74B

For more information about Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s) visit http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/munic.cfm

EPA Orders 79 Municipalities in South Central Pennsylvania to Improve Stormwater Management

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has sent orders to 79 municipalities in PA requiring improvements to their Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) programs.  The municipalities will have to correct problems with their MS4 programs and come into compliance with their Clean Water Act permits.  For a list of the municipalities affected, visit the link below. 

EPA News Release (Region 3), April 23, 2010-05-04

http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/0/0048DBEB354B9EF98525770E0059E0F7

For more information about Municipal Separate Storm Sewer Systems (MS4s) visit http://cfpub.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/munic.cfm

 

PA Must Take Action to Protect Water Resources from Drilling Wastewater, Other Sources of TDS Pollution: Proposed Rules will Help Keep Drinking Water, Streams and Rivers Clean

Natural gas drilling, abandoned mine drainage, agricultural runoff, industrial or sewage treatment plant discharges, and other sources of pollution create high levels of total dissolved solids (TDS) pollution that threaten our streams and aquatic life.  There have been recent examples of elevated TDS pollution in the Monongahela River (a major drinking water source) and Dunkard Creek, which caused destruction of 26 miles of the river in PA.  TDS is a measure of elements dissolved in water including carbonates, chlorides, sulfates, nitrates, sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium.  PA DEP Secretary John Hanger believes that the rules must be strengthened to protect our waterways. 

PA DEP News Release, April 6, 2010
http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/community/newsroom/14287?id=10349&typeid=1

 

EPA Issues Comprehensive Guidance to Protect Appalachian Communities from Harmful Environmental Impacts of Mountaintop Mining

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced a set of actions to clarify and improve environmental permitting for Appalachian mountaintop removal and surface coal mining projects to protect the local community’s water quality and environment.  Mountaintop mining uses explosives to access coal, which can harm water quality and ecosystems.  The EPA is providing clarified and improved guidance, providing two scientific reports on the aquatic impacts and levels of conductivity, and creating a permit tracking website.  The EPA will accept public comments on the new guidance, which will be effective immediately on an interim basis. 

For more information, and to view the documents, visit http://www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/guidance/mining.html

For the full press release, visit http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/d0cf6618525a9efb85257359003fb69d/
4145c96189a17239852576f8005867bd!OpenDocument
 

 

 

American Rivers Launches National River Cleanup 2010 This is your chance to volunteer time and make a large impact on a river/stream in your area.  This website provides opportunities for finding a nearby river cleanup and gives information on organizing your own river cleanup. Last year, hundreds of thousands of people removed tons of trash in rivers across the country.  http://www.americanrivers.org/our-work/restoring-rivers/national-river-cleanup/   Habitat Helpers Wanted This article provides organizations within the Chesapeake Bay and its watersheds that need your help in removing invasive exotic species.  For more information on how you can help positively impact these important ecosystems, visit http://www.bayjournal.com/article.cfm?article=3831 By Karl Blankenship, Chesapeake Bay Journal, April 2010

 

Grants and Awards 

Grants:

 

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources Electronic Grants System

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources provides eGrants, an electronic grants system that contains all available DCNR grants.  Applications can be submitted online.

https://www.grants.dcnr.state.pa.us/index.aspx

 

Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative

Under the Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative (CBWI), eligible landowners can use available technical and financial assistance to address soil erosion, sedimentation, and excess nutrients in streams and waterways, as well as other related natural resource concerns such as air quality, wetlands, wildlife habitat, and forestry. Applications for CBWI will be accepted continuously and evaluated on a monthly basis. To apply, farmers must fill out an application form and contact their local NRCS office. Pennsylvania agricultural producers located within the Chesapeake Bay watershed may be eligible to apply.

http://www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/cbwi/index.html

 

Chesapeake Bay Trust Mini Grants

This program provides up to $5,000.00 for projects that focus on the Chesapeake Bay Trust's priorities.  These grants are typically used for educational purposes, small projects, and public awareness initiatives.  Grant applications will be considered until funds are exhausted.

http://www.cbtrust.org/site/c.enJIKQNoFiG/b.2028473/k.BBF6/Mini_Grant_Program.htm

1675 Foundation
This foundation offers support to organizations for arts/culture, education, the environment, health, human services and history.  Priority is given to Philadelphia and Chester Counties.  Grants ranging from $2,000 to $50,000 are available to organizations that are tax exempt under IRS Code 501(c)(3) or public charities under IRS Code 509(a).  Applications are due March 1 and October 1 of each year.
http://www.1675foundation.org/guidelines.htm

Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund
This Trust provides charities with funding to support education, the environment/conservation, or children’s programs. 
http://www.bridgestone-firestone.com/trustfund.asp

William Penn Foundation Grants

This foundation provides grants that protect, conserve, and restore water resources that drain to the Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers. 

http://www.williampennfoundation.org/info-url_nocat3569/info-url_nocat.htm

Maryland DNR Grants and Loans
Visit this site for a comprehensive list of Maryland Department of Natural Resources Grants and Loans.
http://www.dnr.state.md.us/land/grantsandloans/index.asp

Maryland DNR Tree-Mendous Program – Trees for Schools Project

The Trees for Schools Project assists teachers and students in Montgomery County Public Schools to plant native trees in their school yards.  Six-foot tall native trees are provided at no charge to the schools with educational fact sheets on how trees benefit the environment.

http://www.dnr.state.md.us/dnrnews/pressrelease2009/081809a.asp

 

The Maryland Urban and Community Forest Committee (MUCFC) Grants

The Maryland Urban and Community Forest Committee (MUCFC) is providing maximum grants of $1,500 to projects for tree planting and care.  Grants are reviewed on or about September 15, February 15 and June 15.

http://www.dnr.state.md.us/forests/programs/urban/grantapp.pdf

 

PennVEST Loans – Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority

Loans are provided for drinking water, wastewater and stormwater loans, on-lot sewage disposal funds, and Brownfield redevelopment.

http://www.pennvest.state.pa.us/pennvest/cwp/browse.asp?A=4

 

Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission Grants Page

The PHMC offers many grants covering topics such as Historical Markers, Technical Assistance, Certified Local Governments, and more.

http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=512&objID=3748&&SortOrder=200&level=2&parentid=3741&css=L2&mode=2
 

NY DEC Grants
Visit this site for a comprehensive list of New York Department of Environmental Conservation Grants and Loans.
http://www.dec.ny.gov/pubs/grants.html

 

USDA Rural Development Water and Waste Disposal (WWD) Loan and Grant Program for Rural Areas

This program provides loans, grants, loan guarantees and technical assistance for water, sanitary, waste and storm drainage facilities in rural areas and towns of 10,000 or less.  Assistance is provided to public entities, non-profit organizations and federally recognized Indian tribes.  Applications are accepted continually. 

http://www.usda.gov/rus/water/program.htm

 

USDA Technical Assistance and Training Grants for Rural Areas

These grants are provided for identifying solutions for water and waste disposal problems, assist in preparing applications for water and waste grants, and improving operations and maintenance of existing facilities.  Private non-profit organizations located in rural areas and towns of 10,000 or less are eligible.  Applications accepted October 1 through December 31 every year.

http://www.usda.gov/rus/water/tatg.htm

 

USDA Solid Waste Management Grant Program for Rural Areas

These grants are provided to public bodies, private non-profit organizations and Native American tribes for reducing/eliminating pollution of water resources and improving planning/management of solid waste sties in rural areas.  Applications accepted October 1 through December 31 every year.

http://www.usda.gov/rus/water/SWMG.htm

 

PA Resource Enhancement and Protection Program (REAP)

This program provides farmers and business with tax credits in exchange for Best Management Practices (BMPs) on agricultural operations to enhance production and protect natural resources.  Applications will be accepted till fiscal year 2009-2010 appropriations are committed to projects.

http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt/gateway/PTARGS_0_2_24476_10297_0_43/http%3B/10.41.0.36/AgWebsite/ProgramDetail.aspx?name=Resource-Enhancement-and-Protection-(REAP)-&navid=12&parentnavid=0&palid=22&

 

Gannett Foundation – Community Action Grants

Funds are granted to provide education/neighborhood improvement, economic development, youth development, community problem-solving, assistance to disadvantaged people, environmental conservation and cultural enrichment.  Applications are due February 16 and August 17 of each year.

http://www.gannettfoundation.org/guidelines.htm

 

H2O PA – High Hazard Unsafe Dam Projects

Grants between $500,000 and $20,000,000 are provided to municipalities, municipal authorities, the Commonwealth and independent agencies for projects that repair, rehabilitate, or remove all or some of a high hazards unsafe dam.

http://www.newpa.com/find-and-apply-for-funding/funding-and-program-finder/funding-detail/index.aspx?progId=190

 

H2O PA Water Infrastructure Projects Bonds

The Commonwealth Financing Authority has issued $400 million in bonds for projects that impact water, water infrastructure, wastewater systems, and high hazard dam projects.  The bonds are designated as “Build AAmerica Bonds” under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.  They are taxable bonds with an interest rate subsidized by the federal government.  Applications are due July 1, 2010.

Visit http://www.newpa.com/find-and-apply-for-funding/commonwealth-financing-authority/index.aspx  and search for H2O PA for more information.

New Jersey DEP Grants and Loans
Visit this site for a comprehensive list of New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection Grants and Loans.
http://www.nj.gov/dep/grantandloanprograms/index.html

Foundation for Pennsylvania Watershed Grants

Grants are provided to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations only.  The primary area ranges from the Ohio border to the Susquehanna River’s mainstem.  Letters of inquiry for the spring round of grants are due February 27, 2010.  Full proposals are due March 23, 2010.  Letters of inquiry for the fall round of grants are due August 27, 2010.  Full proposals are due October 1, 2010.

http://www.pennsylvaniawatersheds.org/?page_id=20

 

EPA Wetland Grants Database (WGD)

The WGD is a database provides information on Wetland Program Development Grants such as project descriptions, grant amounts, final reports, geolocational information, case studies, and more.  They also have a “Model Products” section that highlights valuable products.  It is meant to be a learning tool for applicants to learn from what others have done.  To view the database, visit http://iaspub.epa.gov/pls/grts/f?p=101:1 and click on the link that says, "Click here for Public Access (read-only)."

 

USDA Encourages Farmers Within Chesapeake Bay Watershed to Signup for Conservation Program

The Chesapeake Bay Watershed Initiative (CBWI) is providing technical and financial conservation assistance for Pennsylvania agricultural producers located within the Chesapeake Bay watershed.  The focus is on controlling erosion and minimizing excess nutrients and sediments entering the Chesapeake Bay.  Practices include crop residue management, crop nutrient management,

cover crops, buffers, and streamside fencing to keep livestock out of streams and protect fish and wildlife habitat.    Applications will be accepted and evaluated throughout the year on a monthly basis.  The applications will be evaluated, ranked, and prioritized based on the effectiveness to control erosion and reduce sediment and nutrients in the Chesapeake Bay.  First, contact your local NRCS or Conservation District for assistance.  The application and information can be found by visiting www.pa.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/cbwi/index.html.

 

NY DEC Grants For Hudson Valley Landowners To Protect Endangered Bog Turtle Habitat

Grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 are provided for private landowners who would like to enhance or restore a critical bog turtle habitat on their property.  A 25% matching fund must be provided by the landowner.  Bog turtles are “endangered” in New York and are federally listed as “threatened,” mainly due to loss of habitat.   First priority goes to projects located in their focus area.  Pre-application deadline is June 1, 2010.  A map of the focus areas can be found by visiting http://www.dec.ny.gov/pubs/48737.html

http://www.dec.ny.gov/press/63846.html

 

USDA – Assistance for Wetland Restoration and Enhancement

The Wetlands reserve Enhancement Program (WREP) is a voluntary conservation program that works through partnership agreements with states, nongovernmental organizations, and tribes.  Funding is provided to restore, enhance, protect, and manage habitat for migratory birds and other wetland-dependent wildlife.  You can submit proposals to your NRCS state office by May 24, 2010. 

For more information, visit http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/programs/wrp/index.html

 

NJ DEP Division of Fish and Wildlife – Endangered and Nongame Species Program (ENSP)

The ENSP is seeking proposals for Landowner Incentive Program projects that focus on the enhancement of at least one rare species or its habitat.  A minimum 25% match is required.  For a list of New Jersey’s State endangered, threatened and species of concern visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/ensphome.htm.  Proposals are due by July 15, 2010. 

For more information, visit http://www.state.nj.us/dep/fgw/ensp/lip_prog.htm

 

 

Awards:
 

PROP Recycling Festival Best Video Competition

The Pennsylvania’s State Recycling Association is hosting this event.  Use your talents and creativity to create a video about recycling and/or about your local recycling program.  A cash prize is provided for the “Best Video” and your video could be posted on the Internet.  Submissions are due by July 9, 2010.

For more information, visit http://www.proprecycles.org/Conference/2010/2010%20Conference.html and click on “3^rd Annual Recycling Film Festival” at the bottom of the page.

 

4th Annual Rachel Carson “Sense of Wonder” Contest

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is hosting this creativity contest.  Categories include poetry, photography, essays and dance.  Entries should focus on instilling a sense of wonder for the environment for all generations and to inspire environmental stewardship. Form a team of two or more people from younger and older generations and submit team entries by June 16, 2010.  The public will have the opportunity to vote. Winners will be announced in October 2010.

http://www.epa.gov/aging/resources/thesenseofwonder/index.htm

 

Paul L. Busch Award – Water Quality Research

The WERF Endowment for Innovation in Applied Water Quality Research presents the Paul L. Busch Award each year with a $100,000 grant for an individual or team that conducts ground-breaking research to solve water quality problems.  Nominations are due by June 1, 2010. 

For more information, visit http://www.werf.org/AM/Template.cfm?Section=Paul_L_Busch_Award&Template=/CM/HTMLDisplay.cfm&ContentID=1427

 

Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission Photo Contest

Submit your photos that highlight Pennsylvania fishing and boating activities.  Categories include seasonal fishing and/or boating, family fishing and/or boating, young anglers and/or boaters, waterway scenics (impoundments), waterway scenics (flowing waters), and reptiles/amphibians/invertebrates.  Winners will receive a certificate, the limited edition magazine 75^th anniversary patch, the limited edition 2008 nongame species patch and the limited edition 2006 nongame species patch, and may appear in a future issue of Pennsylvania Anger & Boater.  You can submit multiple entries, but are limited to two per category.  Submissions are due by December 31, 2010. 

http://www.fish.state.pa.us/anglerboater/photocontest/2009photocon/2010photo_entry.pdf

 

Maryland Department of Natural Resources Photo Contest

Submit your photos of Maryland’s water, wildlife, farms, fields, parks, animals, insects, forests and protected areas.  The entry fee is $10 for three photos and $3 per additional photo, with no limits on the amount you can submit.   The photos will be judged in the following categories:  birds, wildlife, insects, scenic, flora, outdoor recreation.  The grand prize winner will receive $500.00, a 2011 Maryland State Park Passport, a lifetime subscription to the Maryland Natural Resource magazine, and five copies of the 2011 DNR Calendar.  Winners will have their photos published in the Maryland Natural Resource 2010 winter issue and the 2011 Maryland Natural Resource Calendar.  Entries must be postmarked by August 31, 2010.

http://dnr.maryland.gov/photocontest/

 

 

 

 

F. X. Browne, Inc.  – Environmental Consulting

F. X. Browne, Inc.
 Engineers – Planners – Scientists
31 Years of Excellence & Innovation

SERVICES

Lake and Water Quality Studies
Watershed Management Programs
Bioengineering Projects
Stormwater Management
Watershed Inventories
Water Quality Monitoring
Laboratory Services
Water Quality & Watershed Modeling
Open Space Planning
Water & Wastewater Planning and Design
Low-Impact Development
Geographic Information Systems
Public Education and Seminars
Wetlands Consulting Services

Corporate Office: Lansdale, PA
Pocono Office: Marshalls Creek, PA
New York Office: Saranac Lake, NY

For more information, call us at (215) 362-3878 or visit: http://www.fxbrowne.com