Pennsylvania Environmental Council

Greater Philadelphia Green Business Program

jessica — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 10:51:47 -0400

An Enlightening Night: Marcellus Shale and Sustainability

jessica — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 15:02:09 -0400

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council invites you to join the discussion as they ask a panel of experts the tough question "How does Marcellus development in Pennsylvania fit within the three rings of sustainability - environment, economy, and community?" The evening is sure to enlighten us about Southwestern Pennsylvania's energy future.

Click here to view/print the invitation.

Duquesne University Union Ballroom, 4th Floor
600 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA

Designing a Municipal Sediment Credit System for Wissahickon Creek

jessica — Thu, 18 Mar 2010 12:46:46 -0400

By Kenneth J. Warren and Mindy Lemoine
03-18-2010
The Wissahickon Creek is one of our region's treasured streams. Meandering from its headwaters in upper Montgomery County through Valley Green to its confluence with the Schuylkill River in Philadelphia, the creek provides recreational, aesthetic and ecological benefits. Despite its charm, however, the creek faces several challenges.

Northeastern PA Bicycling and Hiking Map

jessica — Fri, 12 Mar 2010 12:16:52 -0500

Urban Sustainability Forum: Cracking the Code

jessica — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 12:09:49 -0500

Cracking the Code:
How 21st Century Building and Zoning Codes Will Make or Break Our Communities

Academy of Natural Sciences
19th St and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Reception: 6:00 - 6:30 p.m.
Program: 6:30-8:00 p.m.

What if every new building in Philadelphia were a green building? What if everyone had access to the waterfronts, could enjoy safe bike lanes, and could conveniently utilize public transportation?

Meetings to address trail from Millvale to Harrison

jessica — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 11:52:55 -0500

By Karamagi Rujumba, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

In days gone by, the steel industry dominated the 185 miles of riverfront in Allegheny County. The remnants of that industry, including contaminated brownfields, scrap yards and rail lines, have impeded efforts to reuse land along the Allegheny, Monongahela, Ohio and Youghiogheny.

ACTION ALERT: Armstrong Trail needs your help.

jessica — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 12:42:01 -0500

BACKGROUND:
This rail with trail right-of-way along the Allegheny River in Gilpin and Bethel Townships between Schenley and Ford City was "railbanked" and purchased by the Allegheny Valley Land Trust (AVLT), managers of the Armstrong Trail.

For over eight years, the AVLT has been in conversations with The Kiski-Junction Railroad about sale of 9 miles of the right-of-way for both freight and scenic service. This is a laudable economic development goal and proper under the federal Rails to Trails Act.

Green Business Program 1-Year Celebration

jessica — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:23:22 -0500

Greater Philadelphia Green Business Program Celebrates One Year Anniversary Wednesday, April 7, 2010, 5:30 - 7:30 PM Rain or shine!
Location: Courtyard of 1 Logan Square, 18th and Cherry Streets (next to the Four Seasons Hotel)

RSVP at http://phillygreenbiz.eventbrite.com

58th Street Greenway Public Meeting

jessica — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 11:21:11 -0500

The 58th Street Greenway Project is FUNDED FOR CONSTRUCTION as part of a $17 million federal transportation grant!

NEXT STEPS: Come to the 5th public workshop and review the conceptual design, a culmination of over six months of community direction and input.

LOCATION:
58th Street Presbyterian Home
2050 58th Street

REFRESHMENTS & FREE BIKE HELMETS FOR KIDS!

Click here to see the flyer (and invite friends!)

Seminar in Carnegie touts green roofs

brad — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 09:21:35 -0500

Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

By Bob Podurgiel

Even though most roofs are still covered with ice and snow, people in Carnegie are thinking green -- as in green roofs.

Environmental groups clean up 28 illegal dump sites

jessica — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 16:57:57 -0500

BILL O ' BOYLE boboyle@timesleader.com

HUGHESTOWN - The Pennsylvania Environmental Council reported Monday that more than 180 tons of garbage was removed from 28 illegal dump sites in 2009 in Luzerne, Northumberland and Wyoming counties.

The council said 46 tons of scrap metal and 27 tons of tires were also removed from the environment throughout the three counties. More than 332 volunteers donated a total of 1,600 hours by participating in the cleanup activities. Contractors were retained to clean up six of the 28 sites because of steep terrain.

Transforming the Tidal Delaware into a 21st Century Riverfront

jessica — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 13:37:12 -0500

TIGER grants will get economy moving

jessica — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 10:44:11 -0500

The White House has announced $1.5 billion for special transportation grants as part of the massive federal stimulus program passed over a year ago. Andrea Bernstein tells us about the potential transportation projects to come.

American Public Radio MARKETPLACE reports on the transportation funding for trails.

New bike paths for region, courtesy of U.S. stimulus

jessica — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 10:39:28 -0500

By Paul Nussbaum
INQUIRER STAFF WRITER

Ten new bike and pedestrian paths will be built in Philadelphia and South Jersey with $23 million in federal stimulus funds, local officials announced today.

The trails will fill in some of the gaps in a planned 108-mile network that eventually will link Philadelphia, Reading, Chester, New Hope, Cherry Hill, and Trenton.

PEC and Bicycle Coalition play key role in securing $23 million in stimulus funding for regional trails

jessica — Wed, 17 Feb 2010 16:33:10 -0500

Philadelphia, PA - The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) worked with six counties and agencies in Pennsylvania and New Jersey to secure $23 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Discretionary Grant Program.

Marcellus Shale Policy Conference

john — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 13:48:41 -0500

Please visit www.pecpa.org/marcellus for more information.

Allegheny Community Trails Public Meetings

jessica — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 11:49:07 -0500

Tuesday, March, 2^nd 6-8 pm Millvale Community Center, 416 Lincoln Avenue, Millvale, PA 15209

Wednesday, March 3^rd 6-8 pm Alle-Kiski Museum, 224 East 7^th Avenue, Tarentum, PA 15084

Saturday, March 6^th 1-3 pm Boyd Community Center, 1220 Powers Run Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238

ECG - North Delaware Riverfront (Philadelphia)

jessica — Fri, 12 Feb 2010 11:36:54 -0500

Latest News:

Upcoming Events

PEC Completes 2009 Illegal Dumpsite Efforts

brad — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 09:17:22 -0500

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) is proud to report the completion of the 2009 Community Illegal Dumpsite Program. This program resulted in the cleanup of 28 illegal dumpsites through volunteer and contractor efforts.

Community Illegal Dumpsite Cleanup Program Check Presentation

jessica — Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:25:15 -0500

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) is proud to report the completion of the 2009 Community Illegal Dumpsite Program. This program resulted in the cleanup of 28 Illegal Dumpsites through volunteer and contractor efforts. A total of 180 tons of trash; 46 tons of scrap metal and 27 tons of tires were removed from the environment throughout Luzerne, Northumberland and Wyoming Counties. A total of 332 volunteers donated a total of 1600 hours by participating in the cleanup activities. Contractors were retained to cleanup 6 of the 28 sites due to the steepness of the terrain.

A "green" city plan to reduce storm water runoff

jessica — Fri, 05 Feb 2010 11:57:16 -0500

By Sandy Bauers
Inquirer Staff Writer

Storm water is nasty and dirty and can cause flooding. So the sooner it gets off a property, the better.

But it's about to become valuable stuff in Philadelphia. Businesses can make money by embracing it. Or face losing money if they let it go.

This week, the Water Department is sending notices to 79,000 commercial customers about a new billing structure for storm water that will begin in July.

As always, there will be winners and losers.

2010 Governor's Awards for Environmental Excellence

jessica — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 15:20:39 -0500

Date: Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Time: 5:00pm - Reception with cash bar
6:30pm: Dinner and PEC presentation
7:30pm Governor's Awards for Environmental Excellence presentation.

Location: Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey Hotel, Harrisburg, PA

Susquehanna Greenway Symposium

jessica — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 13:10:44 -0500

Susquehanna Greenway Symposium

Using civic engagement to create healthy, sustainable Susquehanna communities

Stimulus money helps township detention basin into ponds and meadow

jessica — Tue, 02 Feb 2010 09:51:10 -0500

by Patrick Lester
The Morning Call
http://www.mcall.com/news/local/all-a5_5pond.7154586jan28,0,3597499.story

With its triad of concrete channels running along flat, treeless green space, an 81/2-acre strip off Sauerkraut Lane in Lower Macungie Township is hardly a scene of beauty.

''It looks like an alien landing strip,'' Rebecca Kennedy said. ''It's a green desert.''

PEC seeking public comment for Wilkes-Barre Trail Master Plan Project

jessica — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 17:17:14 -0500

The City of Wilkes-Barre in Partnership with the Pennsylvania Environmental Council and the Anthracite Scenic Trails Association is preparing a Trail/Greenway Master Plan for a city-wide trail/greenway system.

The Partnership is seeking public comment on the final draft map of the potential alignment for the trail/greenway system. A brief survey and map are available for viewing at the following two locations within the City of Wilkes-Barre:

YMCA
40 West Northhampton Street, Wilkes-Barre

"Complete the Schuylkill River Trail" Walk - Bartram's Garden to Dupont Crescent

jessica — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 13:27:07 -0500

9:30 AM to 12:30PM

PEC receives DCNR funding to support recreation and stewardship activities

jessica — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 12:42:18 -0500

Thanks to a grant from the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) will continue its work to support statewide water trails, and connect residents to the East Coast Greenway and Tidal Delaware Water Trail. Additionally, PEC's supporting organization, Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds and Rivers (POWR) received funding to continue the Pennsylvania River Sojourns and River of the Year programs.

Green Roof and Green Landscaping Breakfast

jessica — Thu, 28 Jan 2010 12:34:08 -0500

7:30 - 9:30 am (includes continential breakfast)
Carnegie Mellon Building
One Veteran's Way
Carnegie, PA 15106
RSVP by Feb. 12th by emailing mvf10@psu.edu

13th Annual Southeast EAC Conference

jessica — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 12:55:52 -0500

LOCATION:
Abington Friends School
Jenkintown
575 Washington Lane
Jenkintown, PA 19046 (Click here for directions)

TIME: 9:00 am – 2:00pm.

Lackawaxen named "River of the Year"

jessica — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 11:11:55 -0500

News Eagle

Steeped in a wealth of natural bounties and historical significance shaping northeast Pennsylvania's ecology and communities for centuries, the Lackawaxen River today was named the Commonwealth's River of the Year for 2010 by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

County urged to keep recreation funding

jessica — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 09:46:12 -0500

By Jennifer Learn-Andes jandes@timesleader.com
Luzerne County Reporter

Recreation advocates urged county commissioners to keep funding Moon Lake Park and the Forty Fort recreation complex during Thursday's work session.

Green leap forward for city

jessica — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 09:33:03 -0500

By Patrick Starr

This week, Mayor Nutter signed Philadelphia's first green building law, requiring that new city-owned buildings of a certain size must meet heightened environmental standards. The mayor and City Council deserve credit for a measure that will improve the city's finances and sustainability.

Moon Lake Park: Can It Be Saved?

jessica — Thu, 21 Jan 2010 09:29:19 -0500

Luzern County's 2010 tentative budget passed Thursday, December 31, with a 10-percent tax hike that eliminates all funding for county-owned Moon Lake Park and the recreation departments. Commissioner Maryanne Petrilla did state that workers in these departments will remain on staff for now.

Click here to see the full article.

PEC Applauds City of Philadelphia Green Building Law

jessica — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 11:29:08 -0500

PHILADELPHIA - The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) applauds the City of Philadelphia's green building law (Bill 080025), signed today by Mayor Michael Nutter.

Philadelphia to pass green building bill

jessica — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 15:25:02 -0500

According to the City of Philadelphia: On December 10, 2009 City Council passed Bill No. 080025, introduced by Councilwoman Blondell Reynolds Brown, which calls for new construction and major renovation of large City government buildings to be designed, constructed, and certified at the silver level of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system of the U.S. Green Building Council.

58th St. Greenway Public Meeting

jessica — Wed, 13 Jan 2010 10:00:23 -0500

New Spirit Church
58th Street and Chester Ave.
7:00 p.m.

We have all shared tons of ideas at previous meetings. NOW it's time to start deciding how to make 58th Street a safer, more enjoyable place to live, walk, bike and drive.

EPA Greener Cleanups

jessica — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 09:42:09 -0500

You're invited to the Mid-Atlantic Green Cleanup Symposium.

WHEN: Wednesday and Thursday,
February 10th & 11th, 2010
WHERE: Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA

Marcellus Shale Policy Conference

john — Tue, 12 Jan 2010 09:33:34 -0500

Pennsylvania Environmental Council and Duquesne University

MARCELLUS SHALE POLICY CONFERENCE
May 3 & 4, 2010
The Power Center / Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Tidal Delaware Boater Stewardship Workshop: Clean Marine

jessica — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 12:36:12 -0500

Clean Marine

Dinner and Workshop: How recreational boaters, sailors, kayakers andanglers can lead the way to a cleaner, healthier Tidal Delaware River

Pennsylvania Marcellus Shale Policy Conference

jessica — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 12:27:42 -0500

How should Pennsylvania construct an effective regulatory framework that allows the natural gas industry to prosper...while protecting environmental and conservation values?

PEC Announces Marcellus Shale Policy Conference

john — Mon, 11 Jan 2010 11:26:51 -0500

Marcellus Shale Policy Conference
May 3 & 4, 2010
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

If you have a stake in the development of regulatory policy and decision-making pertaining to Marcellus shale gas production in Pennsylvania, then you should attend this important conference!

Accomplishments of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council

jessica — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 15:09:47 -0500

1970 - 2010

Pennsylvania Environmental Council turns 40!

jessica — Fri, 08 Jan 2010 14:57:08 -0500

Harrisburg, PA (January 11, 2010) -- The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC), one of Pennsylvania's oldest and most respected voices on environmental issues, today marked its 40th anniversary of service.

PEC was founded three months prior to the first Earth Day as part of a sweeping national environmental movement that dramatically changed environmental values, regulation and stewardship in America.

Urban Sustainability Forum: A Special Forum with David Byrne - Cities, Bicycles and the Future of Getting Around

jessica — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 14:40:42 -0500

6:00 - 6:30 p.m. - Reception
6:30 - 8:30 p.m. - Program

David Byrne has been writing and performing music and directing video and film for more than 30 years. He was the lead guitar player and singer for the Talking Heads, the innovative rock band which was inducted in to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2002.

What might not be as well known is Byrne's passion for biking, and advocacy for bicycles in cities around the world.

PEC celebrates 40 years of environmental service to Pennsylvania

jessica — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 11:09:08 -0500

Celebrate with us! For more than 40 years, PEC members, staff, partners and supporters have improved the quality of life for Pennsylvanians by restoring and protecting Pennsylvania's natural and built environments. In addition to our ongoing project work to build sustainable communities, protect water resources and address energy and climate issues, we're planning a host of activities you won't want to miss. Check back often for updates!

NKCDC Plan

jessica — Thu, 31 Dec 2009 14:44:28 -0500

Trail loops seen as links to Wilkes-Barre’s features

brad — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 13:48:15 -0500

From the Wilkes-Barre Times Leader

By RORY SWEENEY

Engineers from Rettew displayed on Thursday a finalized proposal for the city's trail master plan, which would create roughly a 12-mile loop around the entire city with two- to three-mile loops within it, all of which would connect to schools, parks and other local attractions.

PROPOSALS FOR REVIEW

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 10:47:13 -0500

Dear Reviewer,

I want to thank you for the time, energy, and expertise you are lending to this very exciting and important project. As you know, we have an accelerated schedule in which to select our consultant team and your immediate attention is appreciated. We have tried to make this as easy for you as possible and so here are a few simple instructions to help you along.

East Coast Greenway - Bristol Delaware Riverfront Greenway Plan

jessica — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 10:33:47 -0500

Bristol Delaware Riverfront Greenway

Feasibility Analysis

Draft 11-11-09

Illegal dump sites cleared on Alden Mountain

jessica — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 12:44:09 -0500

By Denise Allabaugh (Staff Writer)

NEWPORT TWP. - A contractor removed nearly 92 tons of trash and three tons of scrap metal illegally dumped at a site on Alden Mountain.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the United States Department of Agriculture provided $26,155 to hire Gary Fronk Excavating for the massive cleanup, coordinated by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council in partnership with the Earth Conservancy.

American Journal of Preventive Medicine features trails project

brad — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 09:36:09 -0500

GREAT PA/NJ

jessica — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:09:01 -0500

GREAT-PA/NJ AWARDED $23 MILLION!

February 17, 2010 - The US Department of Transportation awarded $23 million for biking and walking trails in Philadelphia and Camden through the Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery (TIGER) Discretionary Grant Program.

Love the Lake Concert

jessica — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 16:03:46 -0500

PEC Governance Documents

jessica — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 10:02:48 -0500

Click on the title of each document to view it.

PEC Bylaws

PEC Conflict of Interest Policy

PEC Retention Policy

PEC Whistleblower Policy

PEC FY09 Audit

Illegal dump site cleanup press conference

jessica — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 13:30:32 -0500

TIME: 12:30pm
Directions below.

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) is hosting a press conference for the cleanup of an illegal dumpsite that was located on Alden Mountain, Newport Township - Luzerne County.

Due to steep terrain of the site, a contractor was retained to remove the 91. 77 Tons of Trash and 3 Tons of Scrap Metal that was illegally dumped. Funding was provided to the Pennsylvania Environmental Council to cleanup this site from Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and United States Department of Agriculture.

PEC Comments on Proposed Rulemaking

john — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 10:01:35 -0500

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council submitted the attached comments to the Pennsylvania Environmental Quality Board, concerning proposed revisions to 25 PA CODE Chapter 102.

Yeadon Borough's Solution to Soggy Days

jessica — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 09:02:15 -0500

Yeadon Borough and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) celebrated the completion of the Borough's Urban Stormwater Demonstration Projects on Monday, December 7 at 4:00 p.m.

Yeadon Borough Stormwater Demonstration Project

jessica — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 13:48:20 -0500

Recognition Ceremony Begins at 4:00pm
Following Darby Cobbs Partnership Meeting at 2:00pm

Bristol Project Documents

jessica — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 17:36:41 -0500

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council has been working to complete the East Coast Greenway throughout PA. This web page has been set up for project stakeholders to review documents and drafts. As these documents are provided for the convenience of key partners and stakeholders, some are in draft form or may be dated, so please check with the appropriate PEC staff before distributing them to others.

Available for download here are:

58th St. Greenway Public Meeting - Southwest Philadelphia

jessica — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 17:07:49 -0500

Nicer sidewalks, safer intersections, and more places for kids to play!

Come share your ideas about making a safer, more enjoyable place to live, walk, bike and drive.

Thursday, December 3, 2009
6:30pm
Ezekiel Baptist Church
58th Street & Grays Ave

Refreshments and door prizes!

This trail will link Bartram's Garden to the Cobbs Creek Trail and will become a designated section of the East Coast Greenway.

Cyclists may find bike map ‘wheel' useful

brad — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 15:54:22 -0500

Scranton Times-Leader

By Rory Sweeney
Staff Writer

The state Department of Transportation doesn't just make driving easier. Earlier this fall, it released a map to the recreation trails of Northeastern Pennsylvania that hikers and cyclists will no doubt find useful.

The map, available in east and west segments on the department's Web site, covers 11 counties, including Luzerne, and lists details for finding trailheads.

French Creek eyed as potential water trail

jessica — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:27:14 -0500

http://www.meadvilletribune.com/local/local_story_328234819.html

'Trail' status eyed for local waterway
By Mary Spicer

Recreational trails for hiking, biking and riding are nothing new. In fact, Crawford County and its neighbors are home to several fine examples. Until now, however, local trails have been constructed on solid ground.

PEC seeks proposals for Bridesburg Ecological Restoration Project

jessica — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:49:30 -0500

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council seeks proposals from qualified engineering/environmental consulting firms to move forward a project to restore up to
9 acres of riparian upland; 2,000 linear feet of inter-tidal shoreline, and 6 acres of aquatic habitat along Philadelphia's Delaware riverfront, in the neighborhood of Bridesburg.

Erie to Pittsburgh Trail web site launched

jessica — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 14:40:12 -0500

The Erie to Pittsburgh Trail is being developed by the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail Alliance, which is an alliance of trail related and interested groups and individuals. We are working to support the designation, development, promotion, and management of the 270-plus mile network of (mostly) rail-trails between Erie PA and Pittsburgh PA.

Pocono Forest and Water Conservation Landscape Roundtable meeting a huge success

jessica — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:35:26 -0500

On October 15th PEC and partners held the first Pocono Forest and Water Conservation Landscape Partners Roundtable. The Landscape aims to connect the conservation of natural resources with sustainable community development.

Tunkhannock retiree recognized for dedication to birds

jessica — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:10:52 -0500

Joe DeMarco loves when his 4-year-old grandson points out a turkey vulture in flight. DeMarco is passing along not only his love of birds, but the seeds of "citizen science."
It's what DeMarco calls the information bird enthusiasts can supply to environmental researchers after bird-a-thons, organized counts and classification of all the birds they can find in a specific area.

"These were people who know their birds," he said. "Those were a blast."

Big Green City? Not yet.

jessica — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 11:04:24 -0500

Sure, Philadelphia has its share of "green" initiatives to not only clean up the city but make it more energy efficient. But what exactly has it done to follow through on numerous plans developed over the last decade?

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council released a report Thursday that collects all the studies and proposals and suggests that one last big push by city government and
nonprofits could finally lead to a greater emphasis on expanding Fairmount Park, reducing city energy use and cleaner streets.

Explore PA Trails: Powered by YOU

jessica — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:20:13 -0500

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources has launched a first-of-its-kind Web site to help people search, view, map and share information on the thousands of miles of trails in Pennsylvania at www.ExplorePAtrails.com.

Signage unveiling and cleanup promotes boating and stewardship on the Tidal Delaware Water Trail

jessica — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 11:59:35 -0500

Watershed Implementation Plan for Pine Creek finalized

jessica — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 10:43:04 -0500

The Council's western PA office has completed a Watershed Implementation Plan for the Pine Creek Watershed located in Allegheny County.

The goal of the plan was to determine how best to reduce the nonpoint source pollutant loads in this watershed.

Allegheny County Community Trails Initiative

jessica — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 07:51:59 -0500

LOCATION:
Harmar Township Municipal Building
701 Freeport Road, Cheswick, PA 15024

6:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 12

The Community Trails Initiative, a multi-municipal project that is working to develop riverfront and community trails from Millvale through Schenley Borough, invites you to a presentation and discussion about the results of planning during the past several months.

Laurel Ridge Interpretive Plan

brad — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 18:35:46 -0500

Nov. 2, 2009 -- The Laurel Ridge Comprehensive Interpretive Plan has been completed and represents the combined efforts of the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and regional partners to develop a unified approach to connecting residents and visitors with the region's resources.

One anticipated outcomes of the Plan is enhanced stewardship of these natural, scenic, cultural and historic assets on Laurel Ridge.

ALCOSAN Public Meetings

jessica — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 14:30:34 -0400

ALCOSAN will be hosting Public Meetings in November 2009 in local communities to provide the public with information about sewage overflow issues, planning efforts to address the overflow problem, and what this means to individuals, businesses, neighborhoods, and the region. Light refreshments and children's activities will be available. More information can be found at ALCOSAN's website: www.alcosan.org or by calling (412)734-8733.

Click here to read the flyer.

Erie-Pittsburgh Trail Public Meeting

jessica — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:59:14 -0400

7:00PM
Freeport Fire Hall at 400 Market Street
Freeport, PA 16229

Come to hear the who, what and where of the Erie-Pittsburgh Trail

Presenters include:
Erie-Pittsburgh Trail Alliance
Rails-to-Trails Conservancy
Armstrong Trail
Butler-Freeport Community Trail
Allegheny County Trails

See and hear the latest plans to expand the multi-modal trail system in Western Pennsylvania

Pa. budget cuts hamper environmental protection

jessica — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 09:23:39 -0400

By Sandy Bauers, Inquirer Staff Writer

Pennsylvania environmental officials have spent the last week hunched over spreadsheets, trying to figure out how to lessen the impact of the largest budget cuts in recent memory.

$58 million in DEP cuts to have far-reaching effect

brad — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 08:47:17 -0400

From The Allentown Morning Call

By Arlene Martínez of the Morning Call

Pennsylvania Environmental Council releases "Implementing Green Infrastructure"

jessica — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:57:45 -0400

Philadelphia can help ensure a more prosperous future by investing in green infrastructure, according to a report released by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.

Environmental Council seeks trail funding support

brad — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 08:57:56 -0400

From the Wilkes-Barre Times-Leader

By Rory Sweeney

Staff Writer

In its attempt to find funding for a master plan and feasibility study to create an interconnected trail system throughout the Wyoming Valley, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council is seeking letters of support from local municipalities.

Researchers encouraged by biomass crop growth on abandoned mine lands

jessica — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 10:15:32 -0400

By Chris Torres, Staff Writer for Lancaster Farming

PINE GROVE, Pa. - Nearly 180,000 acres of Pennsylvania mine land sit abandoned, relics of an old mining industry that used to dominate areas like Schuylkill County and an area of northeastern Pennsylvania referred to by many as "the coal regions."

With much of the area's land depleted of the necessary nutrients to support plant life, it has little use other than possibly putting buildings on it.

East Coast Greenway Fundraiser

jessica — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 15:36:25 -0400

East Coast Greenway and Schuylkill River Trail Bicycle & Boat Fundraising Tour

"Let's complete the Trail and Greenway and have fun doing it!"

A rare round-trip guided tour by bike and boat of the tidal Schuylkill from Walnut Street in Center City to Fort Mifflin in Southwest Philadelphia

Tour departs: Schuylkill Banks Walnut Street dock by bicycle at 9:00 a.m.
read more

Great Allegheny Passage trail update

jessica — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 14:36:06 -0400

From the Allegheny Front:
read more

Budget Dramatically Shifts Resources From Environmental Protection, Natural Resource Conservation

john — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 12:51:07 -0400

Cuts and diversions in the budget just adopted by the state have dramatically reduced spending for environmental and natural resource programs in Pennsylvania by $347 million in just one year according to Donald S. Welsh, President & CEO of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.
read more

Researchers Encouraged by Biomass Crop Growth on Abandoned Mine Lands

brad — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 14:26:17 -0400
From Lancaster Farming
Chris Torres
Staff Writer

PINE GROVE, Pa. - Nearly 180,000 acres of Pennsylvania mine land sit abandoned, relics of an old mining industry that used to dominate areas like Schuylkill County and an area of northeastern Pennsylvania referred to by many as "the coal regions."

With much of the area's land depleted of the necessary nutrients to support plant life, it has little use other than possibly putting buildings on it.
read more

Laurel Highlands Interpretive Plan to Be Presented

brad — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 12:28:36 -0400

Laurel Highlands CLI partners have scheduled a forum to garner feedback on the Laurel Ridge Interpretive Plan. The session will be held Monday, Nov. 16, from 9:30 to noon at the Fred Rogers Center at St. Vincent College along Route 30 near Latrobe.
read more

Secretary Quigley Tours Laurel Highlands Sites

brad — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 12:17:19 -0400

John Quigley, Acting Secretary of the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, recently toured Ohiopyle, Connellsville and Laurel Hill State Park to see firsthand some exciting elements of the Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Initiative (CLI). Secretary Quigley said the CLI can become a national model for sustainable development by acting and investing around conservation, recreation, community revitalization and sustainability.
read more

Fire Sale

jessica — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 10:14:27 -0400
Unable, after a hundred days, to balance the budget, the Senate, House and Gov. Rendell have put a sign on our State Forest lands saying "Fire Sale. Must sell."

One of the last unresolved issues is the proposal to lease a minimum of 96,000 acres of State Forest land for natural gas drilling, or however much it takes to yield $240 million. Although those numbers may change, the fact remains: this will overturn a century of careful forest management that earned Pennsylvania a sustainable forest certification.
read more

Federal Climate Change Policy Briefing

jessica — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:38:56 -0400

Presented by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, Clean Air Council and the Academy of Natural Sciences Center for Environmental Policy

Academy of Natural Sciences
Ben Franklin Parkway
6:00pm Doors open

6:30 pm Welcome/Introductions
read more

Improvements for Ohiopyle ahead

jessica — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:06:39 -0400

Improvements for Ohiopyle Borough ahead
Federal stimulus money will pay for draining and parking upgrades.
By Jennifer Reeger, TRIBUNE-REVIEW

Brick-paved parking areas that filter stormwater to rain gardens will be coining soon to Ohiopyle Borough, which will be improved with $1.3 million in federal stimulus funds.

The Ohiopyle Green Infrastructure Project is among the steps being taken to address issues facing the borough, home to Ohiopyle State Park.
read more

At Penn's Landing, a day of watery whimsy

jessica — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:00:47 -0400

Coast Day festival salutes all matters maritime. At Penn's Landing, a day of watery whimsy
By Monica Peters FOR THE INQUIRER

On Sunday, the Southeastern Pennsylvania Coast Day festival at Penn's Landing will celebrate our region's maritime history and culture with free entertainment and activities. From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., children can enjoy crafts with their parents such as decorating scratch-off fish.
read more

It's lawmakers obligation to make environment better

jessica — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 14:52:50 -0400

Harrisburg Patriot

The debate surrounding a natural gas severance tax has become the latest political football in budget battles in Harrisburg; one that sidesteps a much deeper and more serious issue: the more than $385 million in additional budget cuts for environmental programs now being discussed in the state Capitol.
read more

Lehigh Valley EAC Conference

jessica — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 13:35:13 -0400

LOCATION:
Northampton County Community College
Fowler Center
511 E. Third St., Bethlehem.
Room 605
9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

TOPICS and sessions include (click here for full agenda):
read more

58th St. Greenway Public Meeting

jessica — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:49:01 -0400

The 58th Street Greenway will be a biking and walking path from Bartram's Garden to Cobbs Creek. PEC is working with Michael Baker, Inc. to design a path that provides an attractive greenway for a safe, enjoyable experience. During the design phase, commmunity members can give input regarding their needs/wants for a trail. This could include trees, curb repairs, benches, signage, bike racks and other amenities.

LOCATION: 5803 Kingsessing Avenue in Philadelphia
TIME: 6:00PM
read more

Pennsylvania Environmental Council selects Michael Baker Jr., Inc. to design 58th Street Connector Greenway

jessica — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 09:34:12 -0400
Philadelphia, PA - The Pennsylvania Environmental Council announced that Michael Baker Jr., Inc. in association with Toole Design Group has been contracted to produce the conceptual and final design of the 58th Street Connector Greenway trail. The greenway segment in Southwest Philly will connect the Schuylkill River Trail and Bartram's Garden to the existing Cobbs Creek Trail and become one of the links in the national East Coast Greenway.

read more

Organizers imagine a tri-state bike trail

jessica — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 09:51:06 -0400

Click here to visit the WHYY web site and listen to the report by Shai Ben-Yaacov of WHYY featuring Spencer Finch, PEC Director of Sustainable Development.

Text of interview (from WHYY web site):

Organizers are hoping to use federal stimulus dollars to build a bike trail system that would run through New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Delaware. Officials are applying for 36 million dollars to fund the project.
read more

Great Allegheny Passage opens another section

jessica — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:28:27 -0400
Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato today opened the newest stretch of the Great Allegheny Passage, a mile-long length of trail that includes a 60-foot tunnel. The new link runs from the Riverton Bridge through RIDC's Riverplace City Center to Grant Avenue in Duquesne.
Click here to see the video on KDKA's web site.

Meet & Green

jessica — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:41:32 -0400

Green Business Program Members the Philadelphia Zoo and The Hub Meeting and Event Center present:

Meet and Green
5:30 - 8:00 p.m.
The Hub Cira Centre
2929 Arch St., Mezzanine
$15

A networking event designed to connect businesses in search of green solutions with those who can provide them.

Brought to you in partnership with the Sustainable Business Network and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council's Greater Philadelphia Green Business Program
read more

Breaking ground with a $1.6 billion plan to tame water

jessica — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 12:37:41 -0400

By Sandy Bauers
Inquirer Staff Writer

View the entire article and photos online: http://www.philly.com/philly/news/homepage/62007227.html?viewAll=y

Philadelphia has announced a $1.6 billion plan to transform the city over the next 20 years by embracing its storm water - instead of hustling it down sewers and into rivers as fast as possible.
read more

Action Alert: Make Your Voice Heard on the State Budget

john — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:40:08 -0400

Heading into our fourth month without a budget, the alleged light at the end of the tunnel is proving itself to be on oncoming train for those who care about the environment.
read more

Envisioning the possible future of climate change

jessica — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 09:19:36 -0400
Envisioning the possible future of climate change
Recent history makes Pittsburgh a gritty example of the changes required to combat global warming
By Don Hopey, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
The irony of lunch-bucket-turned-high-tech Pittsburgh hosting a global financial summit scheduled to tackle the daunting challenge of paying for a less carbon intensive energy future is rich on so many levels.
read more

Philadelphia and surrounding counties collaborate on $36 million grant proposal to fund multi-use trail network

jessica — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 09:00:41 -0400

read more

Kayak and Clean at Schuylkill Banks

jessica — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 13:52:44 -0400

Join us October 6 at 5:00 p.m. next to the Philadelphia Museum of Art on the Schuylkill River for the launch of the Coalition for Philadelphia's Riverfronts campaign. We’ll talk about how the new greenway will help the city’s economy, the ways it will support Greenworks’ goal to make Philadelphia the greenest city in America and how a continuous, connected trail along our rivers will benefit everyone who lives in or visits Philadelphia.
read more

Pocono Forest and Waters Conservation Landscape Partners' Roundtable

jessica — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:48:33 -0400
10:00am - 3:00pm
Thornhurst Fire Hall
125 River Road; Thornhurst Township; Lackawanna County, PA
Let's take this time to discuss the Landscape and share information on projects we're working on. This will also be a time to come up with ways for us to work together as we move forward toward realization of our goals for this region.

Light refreshments and a light lunch will be served.

R.S.V.P. REQUIRED by Friday, October 8, 2009 by calling PEC at 570-718-6507 AND via e-mail to eferretti@pecpa.org.

PEC announces Pocono forest and water conservation funding application available

jessica — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:43:46 -0400

PURPOSE
With the working knowledge that the Pocono Forest and Water Conservation Landscape (PFW) is a very active region and home to numerous and worthwhile projects, programs, communities and groups with a focus toward conservation, sound land use and nature based recreation, the purpose of the CAP is to provide funding for smaller projects that support the Overall Goals of the PFW and advance land conservation and conservation and recreation planning with the PFW Priority Areas using a proactive targeted approach.
read more

Severe Budget Cuts Mean Erosion Of Our Right To A Clean Environment

john — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 11:30:20 -0400

Statement by Donald S. Welsh
President & CEO

The debate surrounding a natural gas severance tax has become the latest political football in budget battles in Harrisburg; one that sidesteps a much deeper and more serious issue: the more than $385 million in additional budget cuts for environmental programs now being discussed in the State Capitol.
read more

Proposed Budget Framework Puts Pennsylvania’s Environment at Further Risk

john — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 17:04:48 -0400

Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) President and CEO Don Welsh today issued the following statement on the proposed budget framework agreement set forth by leadership from the General Assembly this morning.

"This budget proposal does nothing to address the critical funding shortfalls facing Pennsylvania's environment. In fact, it continues the theme of making millions of dollars of cuts and diversions from agency budgets that are already insufficient.
read more

Casselman River Water Trail Map and Guide Public Meetings

jessica — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 16:47:14 -0400

THREE dates offered for your convenience!

September 15th - Rockwood
High School Auditorium
437 Somerset Ave.

September 16th - Confluence
United Methodist Church
525 Hughart Street

September 17th - Meyersdale
High School Main Meeting Room
1349 Shaw Mines Road
read more

Northeast Pennsylvania Environmental Partners Announce Award Recipients

jessica — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 12:34:55 -0400

"An Evening for Pennsylvania's Environment" - The Nineteenth Annual Environmental Partnership Awards Dinner will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2009 at 5:00pm at the Woodlands Inn & Resort, Rte 315, Wilkes-Barre, PA. Eight (8) Recipients of the Environmental Partnership Award and the Thomas P. Shelburne Environmental Leadership Award Recipient will be honored. To receive information or an invitation to the Awards Dinner, please call the Pennsylvania Environmental Council at 570-718-6507.
read more

Wine Tasting Fundraiser

jessica — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 11:50:37 -0400

Fairmount Water Works Interpretive Center
$35 per person

Includes wine, hors d'oeuvres and Interpretive Center tours, including a special exhibit "100 Years of Filtration"

Meet and greet with PEC's new President & CEO, Don Welsh.

Wine discussion/tasting by Phil Hinerman, PEC Board Member, Attorney, Associate in London's Institute of Wines and Spirits, LEED-AP, and Certified Specialist for Wines, Society of Wine Educators.
read more

Sharing Stewardship

john — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 11:26:46 -0400

Public Meeting: Bristol Riverfront East Coast Greenway meeting

jessica — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 13:05:27 -0400

Bristol Riverfront Greenway Public Meeting

6:30 - 8:30

Margaret R. Grundy Memorial Library

680 Radcliffe St. Bristol, PA

The East Coast Greenway is a paved, off-road walking and biking trail. Once complete, it will connect all major cities along the East Coast including Boston, New York, DC, Miami and Philadelphia!

PEC On the Forefront: Ecological Restoration on the Delaware River

jessica — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 09:46:08 -0400

TIME 4:30-6pm (presentation will begin at 5pm)

PEC and our partners have embarked on an ecological restoration program to reestablish river bank forests and fresh water tidal wetlands. At September's PEC on the Forefront we will summarize the first phase of this work; the identification, assessment, and prioritization of ecological restoration sites.

DCNR official takes tour of Connellsville

brad — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 13:00:55 -0400

From The Uniontown Herald-Standard

By PATTY YAUGER, Herald Standard

CONNELLSVILLE - As a former third-class city mayor and a main street manager, state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources acting Secretary John Quigley understands the plight of Connellsville as the city struggles to revitalize the community.

Coast Day - Free Kayaking

jessica — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 11:53:24 -0400

The annual Southeastern PA Coast Day event celebrate's our region's maritime history and culture.

Join PEC on Coast Day for free kayaking from 12-4pm in the Penn's Landing Marina (south of the seaport museum and ferry). Then, be sure to stop by PEC's booth for fishing games, information on the Tidal Delaware Water Trail and how you can get out more on the Delaware River!

Rutledge soaks up garden

jessica — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 15:52:34 -0400

By BARBARA ORMSBY Times Correspondent

It was a "green" letter day recently when the long-awaited rain gardens at Triangle Park were dedicated with a ribbon-cutting
ceremony.

The rain gardens are designed to help control stormwater and filter and trap pollutants before they can reach Stoney Creek, a tributary of Darby Creek.

When rain water enters the gardens, native plants and soils act as filters to help cleanse water before it flows into the creek.

Urban Sustainability Forum - Green Infrastructure

jessica — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 14:10:13 -0400

Urban Sustainability Forum: Green Infrastructure Funding

6:00 p.m.- Reception
6:30 p.m.- Program
Academy of Natural Sciences- 19th St. and the Ben Franklin Parkway
Register online by visiting: http://greeninfrastructurefinance.eventbrite.com/

Urban Sustainability Forum - "No Vacancy": Reimagining Vacant Land in Philadelphia

jessica — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 13:57:54 -0400

September 17, 2009
6:00- 6:30 p.m. - Reception
6:30-8:30 p.m. - Program

Academy of Natural Sciences
19^th St and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway

RSVP here to reserve your spot.

PEC seeks bids for Ohiopyle Green Infrastructure Project

jessica — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 11:40:09 -0400

PEC received funding from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act for the Ohiopyle Borough Green Infrastructure Project.

Bids will accepted now through October 6, 2009 for:

Biomass Production on Reclaimed Mined Land Field Day

jessica — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 10:30:25 -0400

Click here to view the event flyer

October 6, 2009
10:00 AM -2:00 PM
Schuylkill County, PA
Lunch and refreshments provided

Hosted by the Penn State Cooperative Extension, Pennsylvania Environmental Council and Red Barn Trading

Visit a 4 year old mine reclamation experiment in Schuylkill County.
•Reclaimed with poultry manure in 2006
•Planted to switchgrassin 2007

Digging into summer fun

jessica — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:52:18 -0400

Click here to see the full article on the Times Leader web site.

WILKES-BARRE - Mix tons of mulched soil, about 400 plants, and 10 and 1/2 kids and what do you get? Dirty fingers, a few worms, corny lyrics to an ad-libbed song, and a community garden outside an urban elementary center intended to become an "edible schoolyard."

East Coast Greenway 58th St. Greenway Public Meeting

jessica — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:59:07 -0400

You're Invited!

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council would like to invite you to participate in the upcoming 58th Street Greenway Public Meeting!

Tuesday, September 29, 2009
6:00pm to 7:30pm
Francis Myers Recreation Center
5803 Kingsessing Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143

Adelaide coke ovens-part of resource analyis

brad — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 10:53:00 -0400

Excerpt from 1992 AIHP Coal & Coke Resource Analysis is attached.

Deals add to state forests, game lands

brad — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 09:38:23 -0400

From The Hazelton Standard Speaker

iConservePA Partnership

jessica — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 13:54:54 -0400

Community Garden Planting at Kistler School Rescheduled

jessica — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 10:51:42 -0400

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council is partnering with the City of Wilkes-Barre Health Department, the Wilkes-Barre Area School District, The Lands at Hillside Farms, King's College and the Penn State Cooperative Extension/4-H to create a community garden at Kistler Elementary in Wilkes-Barre. The purposed of this collaborative community garden is to educate students not only how to grown their own food but also the health, environmental and economic benefits of locally grown food.

Earth Friend Award Video

jessica — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 10:38:24 -0400

Click the video below to see the Bartramiam video

Levin Furniture

Earth Friend Award Videos

jessica — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 10:21:34 -0400

Check out more Earth Friend Award Winners by clicking the videos below:

3 Rivers Heritage Trail

Allegheny Land Trust

Stoney Creek

Earth Friend Award Videos

jessica — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 10:17:29 -0400

Check out more Earth Friend Award Winners by clicking the videos below:

Commute Info

Gateway Middle School

Audubon

Earth friend Award Videos

jessica — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 10:13:17 -0400

Check out more Earth Friend Award Winners by clicking the videos below:

Succop Conservancy

Peters Creek Watershed

Northern Ambridge

Earth Friend Award Videos

jessica — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 10:06:14 -0400

Check out more Earth Friend Award Winners by clicking the videos below!

Nature's Way

Wildlife Works

TASOW

Earth Friend Award Videos

jessica — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:54:23 -0400

Check out more winners of the Earth Friend Award by clicking below:

Grow Pittsburgh

Swap a Palooza

Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy

Construction to Start on Riverfront Greenway

jessica — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 09:51:14 -0400

By Jennifer Lin, Inquirer Staff Writer

Read the article online here.

Bob Borski heads down a long lane off State Road and stops his car at a city park on the Delaware River in Northeast Philadelphia.

The former congressman scans the broad shoulders of the muddy river.

"It's spectacular," Borski said.

"And no one ever gets over here to see it."

Annual Members Meeting 2009

jessica — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 16:03:21 -0400

Holiday Inn Harrisburg East
4751 Lindle Road
Harrisburg, PA 17111
http://www.hiharrisburgh.com

Triangle Park New Stormwater Management Practices

jessica — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:38:12 -0400

RUTLEDGE BOROUGH - The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) celebrated Rutledge Borough's Triangle Park Stormwater Demonstration Projects at a green ribbon cutting ceremony 4 p.m. Thursday, July 16 at the park, Swarthmore and Rutledge avenues.

Eyesore in Township Cleaned Up

jessica — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 14:32:33 -0400

BY MICHAEL J. RUDOLF, Wyoming County Press Examiner

State and local officials gathered along Sunnyside Road on Monday morning to announce the completion of a dump site cleanup.

Until this spring, the steep bank between the road and Tunkhannock Creek was littered with old appliances, garbage and debris.

Don Welsh, president of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, noted that 19 tons of trash were pulled from the site back in April, as well as a ton of tires.

58th St. Connector (Southwest Philadelphia)

jessica — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 11:29:55 -0400

Latest News:

Upcoming Events

Grid Magazine features East Coast Greenway

jessica — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:28:20 -0400

Click the "open publication" link below to read the magazine online. Click through to page 18 to read the article on the East Coast Greenway coming through Philadelphia.

North Branch Susquehanna River named a National Recreation Trail

jessica — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 14:07:22 -0400

The board of directors of the Endless Mountains Heritage Region, Inc. have received notification from U.S. Secretary of the Interior that the North Branch of the Susquehanna River is a designated National Recreation Trail.

Bicycle route through Center City planned

jessica — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 13:54:58 -0400

A bicycle route through Center City is planned
By Sandy Bauers, Inquirer Staff Writer

In a bid to increase bicycling in Philadelphia, the city plans to designate one lane along two major streets - Spruce and Pine - for bikes, leaving the other lane for all vehicular traffic.

City workers will paint new lines along both streets, from river to river, officials said, with the pilot project beginning around Labor Day.

Forrest Wood fishing tournament expected to draw 60,000 fans

brad — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 11:14:03 -0400

From the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review

By Bob Frye
TRIBUNE-REVIEW OUTDOORS EDITOR

There are better places to fish for bass in Pennsylvania than Pittsburgh's three rivers.

Water Trails Workshop

jessica — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 09:55:12 -0400

PA Water Trails Technical Assistance Workshop

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

9:00am - 4:00pm

Centennial Barn, Fort Hunter Park, Harrisburg (http://www.forthunter.org/)
read more

Volunteers Are Key to Success of Trail

brad — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 09:48:47 -0400

From the Wilkes-Barre Times-Leader

By Steve Mocarsky
Staff Writer
read more

Golf courses explore environmentally friendly practices

brad — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 10:29:34 -0400
From the Pottstown Mercury
By Brian McCullough, Journal Register News Service
read more

Eyesore in township cleaned up

brad — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:31:52 -0400

BY MICHAEL J. RUDOLF

Wyoming County Press Examiner
read more

PEC and TNC Statement on House Budget Negotiations

john — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 08:38:01 -0400

Text of Letter from Don Welsh, President & CEO of PEC, and William Kunze, Pennsylvania State Director of The Nature Conservancy:

July 16, 2009
read more

PEC and TNC Statement on House Budget Negotiations

jessica — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 15:05:00 -0400

Text of Letter from Don Welsh, President & CEO of PEC, and William Kunze, Pennsylvania State Director of The Nature Conservancy:

July 16, 2009
read more

2009 Delaware River Sojourn and Free Kayaking announcement

jessica — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 17:28:54 -0400

Click here to see video from Day 7 of the 2009 Delaware River Sojourn, and comments by Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter during the announcement of a free kayak program coming to Penn's Landing this summer.
read more

New identity for Donegal area is in the making

brad — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 09:49:47 -0400

From the Connellsville Daily Courier

By Marilyn Forbes

For many years, Donegal has been known as the area you drive through to get somewhere else.

"People drive through Donegal not to Donegal," Jim Segedy said. "What is it that you can do to get people to come into Donegal."
read more

River branch named national trail

brad — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 08:34:43 -0400
From the Towanda Daily Review
BY JAMES LOEWENSTEIN
STAFF WRITER
read more

Donegal visioning project public meeting set July 7

brad — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 10:48:43 -0400
The Pennsylvania Environmental Council in conjunction with several organizations has scheduled a public meeting at 7 p.m. July 7 to present the draft report from the Donegal Community Design Workshop or charrette held in December.
The meeting will be held at the Donegal Community Center along Route 31.

The draft report from the charrette will be presented and comments accepted. In addition, public input is being solicited for how to follow up on the community visioning.
read more

East Coast Greenway - Bucks

jessica — Wed, 01 Jul 2009 14:14:51 -0400

Latest News:

Upcoming Events

read more

PEC launches free kayak program at Penn's Landing

jessica — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 09:36:10 -0400

Join us for kayaking this summer!

This program is a free walk-up, first-come, first-served kayak program where people can learn a little about kayaking and paddle around the Penn's Landing Marina in Philadelphia for about 20 minutes under the supervision of trained kayak staff. It's a chance to experience Philadelphia like you've never seen it before - from the water!
read more

Ohiopyle long on history, short on infrastructure funds

brad — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 08:58:10 -0400

By Jennifer Reeger

The Tribune-Review

When Mark McCarty arrived in Ohiopyle in 1971, the park surrounding the tiny Fayette County borough along the Youghiogheny River was in its infancy.

The state had grand plans for the park: a 100-room hotel, a golf and ski resort, and other amenities to attract tourists.
read more

Yough River Water Trail map and guide published

brad — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 10:39:27 -0400

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council has published a two-part map and guide to promote boating on the newly designated "Youghiogheny River Water Trail."

The water trail was developed in cooperation with the state Department of Conservation & Natural Resources and the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission as part of the Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Initiative.

Water Trails identify natural features, historic sites and other points of interest; hazards; boat rentals, liveries and outfitters; and directions to public access areas.
read more

Youghiogheny River Water Trail

brad — Sat, 27 Jun 2009 09:20:17 -0400

Green advise board weighed

brad — Fri, 26 Jun 2009 12:20:19 -0400

Staff Writer

From The Lancaster Intelligencer-Journal

Getting local officials to appoint citizen boards for advice on how to protect the environment and wisely use natural resources is a priority in Lancaster County's new comprehensive plan.
read more

New Handbook will help make golf courses more "green"

jessica — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 14:32:32 -0400
Golf course superintendents can now take advantage of a new Water Resources Best Management Practices Handbook to help make their courses truly green.
The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC), in partnership with Land Studies, Inc., published the new Best Management Practices Handbook with financial assistance from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection's Growing Greener Grant Program.
read more

PEC Urges House Committee to Dedicate Funding for Environmental Programs

john — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 14:28:18 -0400

read more

PEC Supports Forward-Looking Climate Legislation

john — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 13:34:29 -0400

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council today announced its support for House Bill 80 (Rep. Vitali, Delaware), with proposed Amendment A01746 (Rep. Ross, Chester), which will be considered by the House Environmental Resources & Energy Committee tomorrow morning.

A copy of PEC's letter of support can be found immediately below.

House Bill 80 and Amendment A01746 pursue two primary objectives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in Pennsylvania:
read more

Urban Sustainability Forum

jessica — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:25:42 -0400

The recent launch of Greenworks, Philadelphia's sustainability framework, sets the goals and strategies for making Philadelphia the greenest city in America.

Join us at the Urban Sustainability Forum for an overview of Greenworks and its five topics - Energy, Environment, Equity, Economy, and Engagement.

Agenda:

I. Welcome- Roland Wall, Academy of Natural Sciences

II. Christine Knapp- unveil new USF logo and website

III. Mark Alan Hughes- Overview of Greenworks process and status

IV. Greenworks Presentation
read more

River Sweep Saturday

jessica — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 17:06:09 -0400

River Sweep Saturday

Saturday, June 20, 2009 8am
Meet in Duck Hollow Parking Lot off Old Brown's Hill Road

Please come out for a few hours and help clean the banks of the Monongahela River of plastic bottles and other flotsam. Keep this area as an attractive natural site for the enjoyment of those who walk and bike along the adjacent scenic trail. Beginning at 8:00 am, a cleanup in Duck Hollow will be one part of the multi-state effort to clean the Ohio River watershed (ORSANCO).
read more

Teamwork pays off on Ohiopyle Project

jessica — Thu, 04 Jun 2009 14:34:25 -0400
When it came to safety for bicyclists and walkers, state and local officials decided to team up to show Ohiopyle the money.
The state awarded a $1.9 million grant on Monday for redesigning Route 381 through Ohiopyle Borough and Ohiopyle State Park to slow traffic and make it safer for bicyclists and walkers to get around.
read more

Hatboro applies for funding to reduce flooding

jessica — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 15:34:43 -0400

The Public Spirit/Willow Grove Guide/Montgomery News

By Nick Malinowski
Staff Writer

After expressing concerns about the lengthy legal requirements and the inflexible grant application guidelines, Hatboro Borough Council voted unanimously to apply for $879,000 in stimulus money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, which will be directed toward storm-water management in the borough.
read more

Allegheny County will conduct energy audit

jessica — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 14:55:54 -0400

Times Observer

Allegheny County will conduct energy audit PITTSBURGH (AP) - Allegheny County plans to conduct an energy audit of its cars and buildings in hopes of saving money and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

County Executive Dan Onorato said he is committed to operating an efficient and sustainable government. Recently, the county replaced hundreds of incandescent lights at its jail with energy-efficient LED lights.
read more

Shale tax would help PA

jessica — Wed, 03 Jun 2009 14:46:57 -0400
Shale tax would help Pa.
Revenue from natural- gas extraction holds promise economically and environmentally.
By Don Welsh

Against an increasingly stark outlook, state budget negotiations have begun in earnest. Many thorny choices need to be made - not just about where to cut the budget, but also about where to find new, reasonable revenue sources.

The latter should include a tax on natural-gas extraction within the state, which could help pay for environmental programs.
read more

Ohiopyle Smart Transportation Project Approved

brad — Fri, 29 May 2009 16:41:12 -0400

read more

Western PA Environmental Awards Winners & Lifetime Achievement Announced

jessica — Thu, 28 May 2009 16:24:15 -0400

Snakes and salamanders, wildlife and watersheds, and brownfields with a green future comprise the five area environmental programs that have been named as the winners of the 2009 Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards, announced yesterday by Dominion and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.
read more

2009 Raffle supporting the Pennsylvania Environmental Council

jessica — Thu, 28 May 2009 12:31:59 -0400

Congratulations!

The following people are winners in PEC's 2009 Raffle!

Grand Prize of $5,000 cash - Angela Morini
read more

Don’t be Penny Wise and Pound Foolish on Environmental Budget

john — Wed, 27 May 2009 11:42:04 -0400

Starting June 1, against the backdrop of stark economic conditions, the state budget negotiations begin in earnest in Harrisburg. Many thorny choices need to be made; not just about where budget cuts should occur, but also about where new, reasonable revenues can be secured.

Even before current budget difficulties, environmental programs have often found themselves in the crosshairs of being diverted to help balance the budget or pay for other programs.
read more

Maia Sharp’s songs combine an edge with an intelligent softness

brad — Tue, 26 May 2009 22:01:35 -0400

In keeping with our tradition of offering music from relatively unknown artists you should know, give a listen to Maia Sharp as the latest musical feature on PEC's web site.

Maia Sharp is a great singer-songwriter whose songs have been recorded by the likes of Bonnie Raitt, Trisha Yearwood, the Dixie Chicks, Art Garfunkel, Lisa Loeb, Mindy Smith, Cher, David Wilcox, Edwin McCain and more. She's written with Carole King, Jules Shear, Timothy B. Schmitt, the Go Gos and many others.
read more

County plans to audit costs of energy use

brad — Tue, 26 May 2009 07:28:45 -0400

By Karamagi Rujumba, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Allegheny County will conduct a full-scale audit of its energy costs and output in all county buildings and vehicle fleet as part of its Allegheny Green initiative.

The initiative, which County Executive Dan Onorato launched last year, is an effort to reduce the county's toxic gas emissions, conserve energy and cut wasteful spending in county operations.
read more

Lifetime award goes to Latrobe 'trailblazer'

brad — Mon, 25 May 2009 11:41:22 -0400

From The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

By Kate Luce Angell

Linda McKenna Boxx had a response to hearing she would be presented the Pennsylvania Environmental Awards' Lifetime Achievement Award at its annual dinner Wednesday.

"I tried to suggest some other candidates," said Mrs. Boxx, 57, president of the Allegheny Trail Alliance and chairman of the Katherine Mabis McKenna Foundation.
read more

Path of the Flood Trail map and guide now available

brad — Wed, 20 May 2009 21:44:03 -0400

Johnstown, PA. May 21, 2009 - Several local partners have worked together to produce a map and guide for the Path of the Flood Trail from Ehrenfeld to Johnstown following the route of the infamous Johnstown Flood of 1889, in which 2,209 people died.

The trail is planned to connect the Johnstown Flood National Memorial with the Johnstown Flood Museum, although two gaps remain as described in the brochure.
read more

Black and Gold City Goes Green

jessica — Wed, 20 May 2009 09:52:43 -0400

39th Annual Philadelphia Dinner

jessica — Wed, 13 May 2009 09:42:28 -0400

Location:

Crystal Tea Room
Wanamaker Building, 9th floor
100 Penn Square East
Philadelphia, PA 19107

5:30 pm Reception
7:00 pm Dinner
read more

Trail could hit bumps in Bucks

jessica — Wed, 13 May 2009 09:16:40 -0400
The East Coast Greenway - a massive project to connect hike and bike trails from Maine to Miami -would run into more than a few roadblocks as it ran through Lower Bucks County, engineers said Tuesday.
Early concept plans for the Lower Bucks leg of the 3,000-mile greenway showed the trail running through the intersection of Green Lane and Route 13, which has seen several fatal pedestrian accidents in recent years.
read more

PEC's Laurel Highlands Projects

brad — Mon, 11 May 2009 15:50:49 -0400

read more

Laurel Highlands Trails Assessment

brad — Mon, 11 May 2009 09:55:28 -0400

The Laurel Ridge Trails Assessment was completed in early 2009 as part of the Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Initiative (CLI).

Laurel Ridge is a unique landscape in Pennsylvania that includes seven state parks, large portions of Forbes State Forest, two sections of State Game Lands and significant conservation holdings such as Bear Run Nature Reserve owned by the Western Pennsylvania Conservancy. One of the parks, Laurel Ridge State Park, is a 70-mile hiking-only trail also called the Laurel Highlands Hiking Trail from Ohiopyle to Seward (near Johnstown).
read more

Township joins effort to prevent flooding

brad — Tue, 05 May 2009 10:27:41 -0400

From The Inteligencer

By: ANNIE TASKER

Commissioners voted to apply for flood prevention stimulus funding.

Upper Moreland is officially on board with an inter-municipal flood prevention project hoped to be paid for with federal stimulus dollars.
read more

State grant to help clean up dumpsites

brad — Tue, 05 May 2009 10:17:53 -0400

From The Hazelton Standard-Speaker

By KELLY MONITZ
STAFF WRITER
read more

Summit stresses natural resources of area

brad — Mon, 04 May 2009 09:43:02 -0400

From the Uniontown Herald-Standard

By Patty Yauger, Herald-Standard

SOMERSET - The Laurel Highlands has long been noted for its raw materials such as coal, timber and stone.
read more

Laurel Highlands Summit Generates Enthusiasm for Conservation Initiative

brad — Fri, 01 May 2009 11:30:18 -0400

The Laurel Highlands Summit held Sunday and Monday was hailed as a huge success by the program's sponsors and supporters.

"The primary purpose of the Laurel Highlands Summit was to inform and energize communities in support of this value-driven approach as our path to the future - and I think we succeeded," said John Quigley, acting secretary of the state Department of Conservation & Natural Resources.
read more

Public meeting set for Ohiopyle Joint Master Plan

brad — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 15:48:17 -0400

The kick-off meeting for the Ohiopyle Joint Master Plan and Implementation Strategy will take place on Wednesday, May 6, 2009 at 6:30 pm in the Ohiopyle Community Center.

read more

Ohiopyle Master Plan public meeting set

brad — Thu, 30 Apr 2009 15:46:29 -0400

Ohiopyle, PA - Ohiopyle Borough and Ohiopyle State Park announce today that the kick-off meeting for the Ohiopyle Joint Master Plan and Implementation Strategy will take place on Wednesday, May 6, 2009 at 6:30 pm in the Ohiopyle Community Center.

read more

Mayor's Bike Ride along the East Coast Greenway

jessica — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 16:45:37 -0400

read more

PEC and Others Celebrate a Decade of Growing Greener Watersheds - Earn $250 for your watershed group

jessica — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 12:21:08 -0400

The Growing Greener Watershed Restoration Program will be ten years old in December and to help celebrate 10 groups have come together to invite watershed groups to share their success stories on a special www.GrowingGreener.com website. As an incentive, a $250 grant will be given to the watershed group with the best article and photo or video each month through December.

Funding for the grants was provided by an anonymous benefactor.
read more

PEC to speak on climate-change impacts at CVC event

brad — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 11:02:53 -0400

Brad Clemenson, Communications Director of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council. will be the featured speaker at the annual meeting of the Conemaugh Valley Conservancy on Wednesday, May 13, 2009, at the Pine Ridge Lodge in Indiana County.

Clemenson will talk about the expected and potential impacts of global climate change in Pennsylvania, including impacts to health, agriculture and recreation. He will also note some of the legislative proposals to address the issue along with related energy initiatives.
read more

Song honors opening of trout season

brad — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 09:31:45 -0400

With the first day of trout season upon us, it is appropriate that PEC continues its periodic music features by offering "The Whole Day Fishing" for your listening enjoyment.
read more

PEC Announces Gala Event to Honor Recipients of the 2009 Governor's Awards for Environmental Excellence

jessica — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 16:36:38 -0400

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council announced today that the award ceremonies for this year's recipients of the 2009 Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence will take place at a gala dinner on April 22, 2009 in Harrisburg.
read more

Pennsylvania Environmental Council Announces New President & Chief Executive Officer

john — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 08:52:02 -0400
Harrisburg, Pa. - Paul M. King, Board Chair for the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC), announced today that, following a unanimous vote from the PEC Board of Directors, the organization has hired Donald S. Welsh as its new President and Chief Executive Officer. Mr. Welsh will officially begin his new role in PEC's Harrisburg office on Monday, April 27th.

read more

Delaware River Day

jessica — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 12:08:10 -0400

Memorial Day Weekend will mark the first time this year that hundreds of boaters in the Philadelphia region will put their vessels in the water and Delaware River Day is the perfect way to start the Penn's Landing Summer Program Season. Produced by the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary and the Delaware River Waterfront Corporation, Delaware River Day encourages conscientious boating practices, stresses the importance of marine safety measures and encourages waterway preservation along the Delaware River.
read more

Tree Planting at the Lands at Hillside Farms

jessica — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 10:01:04 -0400
The Pennsylvania Environmental Council in partnership with the Lands at Hillside Farms will be conducting a streamside tree seedling planting at the Lands at Hillside Farm in Trucksville on Thursday, April 9, 2009 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

read more

COALS Cleanup Completed in Hughestown Borough, Luzerne County

jessica — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 09:46:15 -0400
The Cleanup Our American Lands and Streams (COALS) Program, a program of the state agency, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) to clean up illegal dump sites is being implemented in Luzerne County by local partners.

read more

'Toxic Truth' book signing and discussion

jessica — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 09:13:27 -0400

Reception at 6 p.m.

Program at 6:45 p.m.
read more

Laurel Highlands Summit April 26-27

brad — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 10:14:07 -0400

Scheduled for April 26-27, the first Laurel Highlands Summit is part of the region's Conservation Landscape Initiative-an effort by the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to raise the region's quality of life while crafting a model of sustainable development tied to the natural and cultural assets of the region.
read more

Summit Aims to Expand Laurel Highlands Economy using natural, cultural resources

brad — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 10:07:07 -0400

HARRISBURG - Community leaders from throughout the Laurel Highlands will meet for a summit later this month to discuss ways to expand the region's economy by capitalizing on its natural and cultural resources.

Scheduled for April 26-27, the first Laurel Highlands Summit is part of the region's Conservation Landscape Initiative-an effort by the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to raise the region's quality of life while crafting a model of sustainable development tied to the natural and cultural assets of the region.
read more

Sustainable... Philly?

jessica — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 12:15:53 -0400
The other night, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council presented its 2009 Philadelphia Sustainability Awards. The event was held in a big auditorium at the Convention Center. It was the evening of the snowstorm, but about 400 people showed up. The place was packed.

read more

Millions are being poured into polar opposite clean coal campaigns

jessica — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 11:04:18 -0400
Can there ever be "clean coal," and can it be part of the nation's energy future?
Environmentalists and the coal industry have mounted dueling marketing campaigns that promote and oppose coal as part of the nation's energy mix. The campaigns are being waged to win the hearts and minds of Americans and to change public policy affecting coal use.
read more

Meadville Market House: Local Market House Growing, attracting new customers

jessica — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 10:54:40 -0400

Anyone looking for a grim economic forecast should be advised to stay away from Meadville Market House.

Truth be told, Market Master Alice Sjolander is downright bullish on the historic structure.

"Things are going very well at the Market House," Sjolander said during a recent interview, noting that sales through the facility's central cashier were not only up substantially in 2008 but have continued to rise into the new year.
read more

Getting Local Firms to Go Green

jessica — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 10:33:35 -0400

Philadelphia Inquirer
by Diane Mastrull

When Josh Kaplowitz arrived at Drinker, Biddle & Reath L.L.P. in September 2007, the new lawyer was 28, "passionate" about environmental stewardship, and appalled by his decidedly nongreen workplace.

"No one knew what to do with recyclables," he recalled. "People were printing up obscene amounts of paper. I noticed an inexcusable amount of waste going on."

Within three months, he had the blessing of Drinker administrators to form a green task force.
read more

2009 Pennsylvania Greenways and Trails Summit

jessica — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 08:13:59 -0400

Date: September 27 - 29, 2009

Location: Blair County Convention Center (southcentral PA near Altoona)

Conducted by the PA Recreation and Parks Society with assistance from a variety of partners (including PEC!) and funding from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

Call for presentations!
read more

Call For Nominations for the Northeastern Pennsylvania Environmental Partnership Awards and the Thomas P. Shelburne Award

jessica — Tue, 31 Mar 2009 10:31:59 -0400

read more

Pennsylvania Works! Campaign Launched

john — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 11:58:22 -0400

A coalition of environmental, conservation, preservation, housing, and research groups, along with both Democrat and Republican members of the General Assembly, today announced their proposals to build green communities and jobs in Pennsylvania through the Pennsylvania Works! Campaign. PEC is a founding member of the campaign.
read more

Presentation: Rachel Carson’s influence on environmental literacy

brad — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 11:51:34 -0400

PEC is sponsoring a presentation entitled "From Nature Study to Environmental Literacy: Rachel Carson as Teacher," as part of the Outdoor Heritage Month activities in partnership with Natural BioDiversity, Johnstown Area Heritage Association and other organizations.

The free presentation by Vivienne Shaffer will be held at 7 p.m. April 21 at the Johnstown Heritage Discovery Center, 201 Sixth Street, Johnstown. The presentation is supported by the Pennsylvania Humanities Council.
read more

PEC Urges Prompt Consideration of Stormwater Legislation

john — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 11:04:01 -0400

Senator Ted Erickson (Chester and Delaware Counties) has reintroduced planning and implementation legislation (Senate Bill 524) that provides local government greater resources to address stormwater impacts from existing and potential sources. Similar legislation is expected in the House from Representative Robert Freeman (Northampton) in the near future.
read more

PEC Opposes Diversion from Oil & Gas Fund

john — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 10:09:53 -0400

Included below is the text of a joint letter submitted to members of the Pennsylvania Senate.
read more

PEC Launches Green Business Program

jessica — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 14:13:40 -0400

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) today announced the launch of the Greater Philadelphia Green Business Program, a new initiative aimed at committing area businesses to reducing the impacts of their office practices on the environment. The program was created by a committee of business leaders and is being promoted in partnership with the PenJerDel Council.
read more

PEC Joins Call on Environmental Funding

john — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 09:05:18 -0400
A coalition of environmental, conservation, and sportsmen groups including the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, as well as local government officials, today announced their support for directing a portion of any extraction tax on natural gas to restoration and habitat programs and to local governments impacted drilling operations.

read more

Urban Sustainability Forum: Growing Sustainable Philly Neighborhoods - What to do in your community

jessica — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 09:03:25 -0400

Location: Academy of Natural Sciences (19th St. and Benjamin Franklin Parkway)

Time: 6-6:30pm (Community fair and reception); 6:30-8pm (Presentation and panel discussion)
read more

Program notes Rachel Carson's influence on environmental literacy

brad — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 17:41:19 -0400

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council is proud to sponsor a presentation entitled "From Nature Study to Environmental Literacy: Rachel Carson as Teacher," as part of the Outdoor Heritage Month activities in partnership with Natural BioDiversity, Kiski-Conemaugh Stream Team, Johnstown Area Heritage Association and other organizations.

The free presentation will be held at 7 p.m. April 27 at the Johnstown Heritage Discovery Center, 201 Sixth Street, Johnstown.
read more

Firm picked to map new Allegheny Valley Trail

brad — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 16:07:07 -0500

By Karamagi Rujumba, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato this morning announced that McTish Kunkel & Associates will complete the development plan for a 32-mile trail along the Allegheny River between Millvale and Harrison.

The firm will begin the mapping process for the proposed Allegheny Valley Trail, which will connect 18 municipalities.
read more

Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards Dinner

jessica — Wed, 25 Feb 2009 14:38:36 -0500

FEATURING
read more

Pennypack Trust officials pitch creek project

jessica — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:52:09 -0500

ByNickMalinowski Staff Writer

Members of a local environmental protection group asked Hatboro Borough Council to endorse a project that would preserve a continuous greenway along Pennypack Creek from its headwaters in Bucks and Montgomery counties through to the Delaware River at Monday's council meeting.
read more

Representatives gather to continue trail project

jessica — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:43:57 -0500

The Erie to Pittsburgh Trail Alliance held its first annual meeting since becoming formally incorporated recently.

There is soon to be a complete, connected system of trail corridors and bicycle-friendly roads available to residents of all ages and abilities Âthroughout western Pennsylvania.

The Erie to Pittsburgh Trail Alliance (EPTA) is a collaborative organization of 12 individual trail groups currently working on completing multiuse recreational trail projects in western Pennsylvania.
read more

Project to develop Iroquois Trail kicks off

jessica — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:36:00 -0500

BY JOSH MROZINSKI Wyoming County Press Examiner

TUNKHANNOCK TWP. - Randy White has walked many trails in the Tunkhannock area and has discovered beauty.

Wanting to promote the beauty and cultural resources of the area. White attended a meeting last Wednesday that kicked off an attempt to develop a trail system in Wyoming County known as the Iroquois Trail.
read more

'Local champion' sought to blaze Iroquois Trail

jessica — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 09:30:27 -0500

By ROFY SWEENEY rsweeney@timesleader.com

A public meeting is scheduled for Wednesday in the hope of finding enough volunteers to turn the Iroquois Trail plan in Tunkhannock into a reality.

"It kind of floundered because no one had the capacity to step up to the plate," said Julie McMonagle, vice president of the Northeast Regional Office of Pennsylvania Environmental Council.
read more

Completing the Schuylkill Trail

jessica — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 08:32:54 -0500

Completing the Schuylkill Trail

Completing the Schuylkill River Trail to Create the Region's First Green Transportation Corridor: a Town Square Series forum will be held at the Academy of Natural Sciences on Feb 26 from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m.
read more

Northeast Environmental Partnership Awards Dinner celebrates "An Evening for Pennsylvania's Environment"

jessica — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 12:41:43 -0500

5:00pm

Woodlands Inn & Resort
Rte 315, Wilkes-Barre, PA.

Features 8 award recipients and the Thomas P. Shelburne Environmental Leadership Award.

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: Mr. John Serrao, Naturalist and Writer-Photographer
DINNER CHAIR: Robert J. Barkanic, PPL
MASTER OF CEREMONIES: Bill Kelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of WVIA
read more

Stormwater Management: The Role of Authorities

jessica — Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:32:14 -0500

THIS EVENT IS FULL. NO MORE RSVPs WILL BE ACCEPTED

Stormwater Management: The Role of Authorities.

Friday, February 20, 10:00 am to noon.
Presented by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council

Keynote speakers:
State Senator Edwin Erickson, 26^th District in Delaware and Chester Counties,
State Representative Robert Freeman, 136^th Legislative District in Northampton County
read more

Coalition Calls for Reinvestment in Pennsylvania's Natural Resources

john — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 18:26:29 -0500
The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC), as part of the Pennsylvania Alliance for Restoration and Conservation (PARC Coalition), today called on Governor Rendell and the General Assembly to invest a portion of the proposed severance fee on drilling for natural gas in Pennsylvania toward environmental protection and improvement through the Environmental Stewardship Fund.

read more

Green Ordinances: How do they really work for communities?

jessica — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 17:05:26 -0500

Tuesday, February 24, 2009
12 pm - 5 pm

Curtis Hall, Wyncote, PA
Church Road and Greenwood Avenue
Wyncote, PA 19095
Lunch included

Guest Speakers:
Joan Kelsch, Chief of Green Building Program, Arlington, Virginia
Dorian Dale, Energy Manager, Babylon, Long Island, NY

Participation is limited to 50 - PLEASE RSVP BY FEB 20 TO:
Lorna Rosenberg at Rosenberg.Lorna@epa.gov or 215-814-5389
read more

Urban Sustainability Forum: Schuylkill River Trail

jessica — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:57:55 -0500

Completing the Schuylkill River Trail to Create the Region's First Green Transportation Corridor

a Town Square Series forum

Location: Academy of Natural Sciences
Date: Thursday, February 26th
Time: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
RSVP: rwall@ansp.org
read more

Urban Sustainability Forum: Philadelphia's Budget Crisis

jessica — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 16:53:51 -0500

Urban Sustainability Forum
Academy of Natural Sciences, 19th St. and Ben Franklin Parkway
6:00 - 6:30 reception
6:30 - 8:30 Program

Is sustainability only for good times? Is going green in Philadelphia too costly to consider during a financial crisis? What are the implications for an urban sustainability agenda in the current economy? What trade-offs confront the city?
read more

Global Warming Forum Set at UPJ

brad — Wed, 04 Feb 2009 09:57:10 -0500

JOHNSTOWN, PA - Brad Clemenson of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council will make a presentation on global warming at 9 a.m. Thursday at the Student Union building of the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown.

The presentation is part of Global Warming Day 2009 on campus. Clemenson, who is PEC's communications director, will speak about unavoidable and potential impacts of global warming in Pennsylvania and the state's Climate Change Action Plan.
read more

PEC and Center for Climate Strategies Announce Creation of "Center for Climate Strategies, Inc."

john — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 16:32:51 -0500
FOR IMMEDIATE RELASE

Contact:
For the Center for Climate Strategies:
Thomas Peterson, Chair (703) 691-3064

For the Pennsylvania Environmental Council:
Paul King, Chair and Interim President (412) 481-9400
read more

East Coast Greenway Summit

jessica — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 16:56:27 -0500

Thank you to those who attended the East Coast Greenway Summit.

The event attracted about 80 regional stakeholders from counties along the greenway route, and those interested in creating more trail segments.

Click here to view photos from this event.
read more

Susquehanna Greenway Symposium: Unveiling Stories of the Susquehanna

jessica — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 14:01:57 -0500

Developing Heritage, Recreation and Cultural Assets Along the Susquehanna

March 24, 2009
8:30 am to 4:00 pm
Tedd's on the Hill Banquet Facility
426 Victor Lane
Shamokin Dam, PA 17876

For more information contact news@susquehannagreenway.org or call 570-522-7232.
read more

Lardner's Point Park to receive restoration funding

jessica — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:37:46 -0500
Lardner's Point Park has been announced as a recipient of over $500,000 in construction funding as part of the Athos Oil Spill mitigation project. Over the past four years the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) has worked to publish a Damage Assessment and Restoration Plan that includes Lardner's as one of nine projects to be funded to mitigate the damage when an oil tanker, the Athos 1, struck a large submerged anchor in November of 2004 and spilled more than 263,000 gallons of oil in the Delaware River near Paulsboro, New Jersey.

read more

Transitioning to no-till crop production

jessica — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:24:17 -0500

Transitioning to no-till crop production

By MELANIE BARKLEY

Transitioning to no-till crop production from traditional methods of production is an excellent way for farmers to save fuel and labor costs associated with planting their crops.

Penn State Cooperative Extension and the Bedford County Conservation District are partnering locally through a grant funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to help farmers make this transition. The title of the program is Park the Plow for Profit.
read more

PEC Annual Harrisburg Dinner

jessica — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:17:58 -0500

Join PEC as we celebrate the recipients of the Governor's Environmental Excellence Awards at an our annual gala at the Harrisburg Hilton. Click here to register online.

John Hanger, Acting Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection, will serve as the keynote speaker for the event and Janelle Stelson, News Anchor for WGAL television will be the program emcee.
read more

Delaware River Sojourn

jessica — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:16:31 -0500

No one left inside!

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council serves on the Delaware River Sojourn Committee, and is planning the final day of the sojourn on Saturday, June 27th. For complete details on the entire week, visit www.delawareriversojourn.org

Day Plan for June 27th

Meet at Penn's Landing for sign-in at 8:00 am (pre-registration at www.delawareriversojourn.org is strongly suggested)
read more

Fishtown Shad Fest

jessica — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:06:59 -0500

The fishtown Shad Fest is an event for the entire region that celebrates the return of shad fish to the Delaware River.

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council, Pennsylvania Horticultural Society and the Fishtown Area Business Association are planning the festival in partnership with many organizations.

As an organization committed to increasing recreation along and IN the river, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council will offer the following activities at the Shad Fest.

read more

Go Green Expo Philly

jessica — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 15:00:56 -0500

Among the exhibits at the Go Green Expo, be sure to check out the winners of the 2009 Philadelphia Sustainability Awards!

Visit www.gogreenexpo.com for more information. PEC is offering free admission for our members to this event. Simply enter the code PECPA when you register online.
read more

Southeastern PA Environmental Advisory Council Conference

jessica — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 13:34:22 -0500

Join us for the 12th Annual Southeastern PA EAC Conference!

Location: Pennsylvania Convention Center 1101 Arch Street Philadelphia (one block from SEPTA Market East Station)

read more

Philadelphia Sustainability Awards

jessica — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 13:27:32 -0500

SAVE THE DATE!

PEC Presents the 2009 Philadelphia Sustainability Awards, hosted by the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society at the Philadelphia Flower Show.

Monday, March 2nd at the Pennsylvania Convention Center

Visit www.philadelphiasustainabilityawards.org for details and to RSVP. Details coming soon!

Organizers prepare for shad fest

jessica — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 13:23:12 -0500

Organizers prepare for shad fest

By Hayden Mitman, Star Staff Writer

A festival based around the culture of shad is being planned for this spring, celebrating the creature that gave Fishtown its name.

It might be too early to decide on a name for an event that is still months away, but area businesses and residents are laying-the ground work for a spring festival that aims to revive Fish town's age-old shad fishing legacy.
read more

Planners present ideas on future look of Donegal

jessica — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:58:31 -0500

Planners present ideas on future look of Donegal

A three-day Community Design Workshop, sponsored by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, concluded Dec. 17 in Donegal with a public presentation by community planners, who presented drawings depicting some possible views of Donegal's future.
read more

River recreation just got easier with new trail map

jessica — Thu, 22 Jan 2009 12:48:50 -0500

River recreation just got easier with new trail map.
Peter Van Allen, Philadelphia Business Journal

An environmental nonprofit may have a solution for recession-weary travelers hoping to stay close to home this summer.

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council created a map of the tidal Delaware water trail, which covers 56 miles from Trenton to Marcus Hook.
read more

Earth Friend Award by PEC at WTAE sponsored by SONY

jessica — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 11:08:54 -0500
The Earth Friend Award honors friends, neighbors, schools, and organizations that are improving our environment and greening our community. Sony is pleased to sponsor the award, which is presented by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) and WTAE-TV Channel 4.
Earth Friend Award is presented on a bi-weekly basis to recognize specific efforts being made by persons, schools, groups, organizations, or communities to improve or conserve our environment and our communities in the Greater Pittsburgh Region.
read more

Let It Rain-from Audubon Magazine

brad — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 15:26:01 -0500

From the January-February edition of Audubon Magazine

In Pittsburgh even minor downpours can cause aging sewer lines to overflow into creeks and rivers, resulting in fish kills and public health advisories.

A TogetherGreen grant will help homeowners funnel rainwater from roofs and driveways to native-plant gardens, each of which can keep as much as 500 gallons of water out of the sewer system during a typical storm.
read more

The Unkindest Cut

brad — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 15:17:47 -0500

From The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette

By Paul King, Acting President, Pennsylvania Environmental Council

Pennsylvanians enjoy a cleaner, healthier environment because of efforts made since the first Earth Day 38 years ago. Nonetheless, funding for the environment is often considered optional by the General Assembly and the governor.
read more

Economic and Green Potential in Trails

brad — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 15:10:50 -0500
From The Wilkes-Barre Times Leader
By Rory Sweeney

Staff Writer

If county Recreation Director Andy Gegaris has his druthers, outdoor enthusiasts equipped with two wheels or two legs will at some point be able to travel from Ricketts Glen State Park to the Philadelphia suburb of Bristol without gassing up the car or hitting the highway.
read more

Nutrient and Carbon Trading Seminar

brad — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 14:13:25 -0500

The Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council and the Capital Resource Conservation and Development Area Council are jointly hosting two one-day seminars in State College, Pa., and Lancaster, Pa., Feb. 12 and Feb. 19.

The Feb. 12 meeting will take place at the Ramada Inn and Convention Center, State College. The Feb. 19 meeting will be at the Lancaster Farm and Home Center, Lancaster.
read more

Nutrient and Carbon Trading Seminar

brad — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 14:09:49 -0500

The Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council and the Capital Resource Conservation and Development Area Council are jointly hosting two one-day seminars in State College, Pa., and Lancaster, Pa., Feb. 12 and Feb. 19.

The Feb. 12 meeting will take place at the Ramada Inn and Convention Center, State College. The Feb. 19 meeting will be at the Lancaster Farm and Home Center, Lancaster.
read more

Nutrient and Carbon Trading Seminars Scheduled

brad — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 14:05:44 -0500

HARRISBURG, Pa. - The Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council and the Capital Resource Conservation and Development Area Council are jointly hosting two one-day seminars in State College, Pa., and Lancaster, Pa., Feb. 12 and Feb. 19.

Locations

The Feb. 12 meeting will take place at the Ramada Inn and Convention Center, State College. The Feb. 19 meeting will be held at the Lancaster Farm and Home Center, Lancaster.
read more

Environmental group lauds joint efforts

jessica — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 13:04:12 -0500

Environmental group lauds joint efforts :Cooperation was key to Dallas couple's trail work, Archbald man's career achievements. By RORY SWEENEY

When Dallas Township residents David and Judy Rimple wanted to increase the recreational trails in the Back Mountain, they joined with like-minded locals to create the Anthracite Scenic Trails Association, eventually roping in support from businesses, lawyers and state agencies.
read more

Tidal Delaware Water Trail

jessica — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:38:17 -0500

The Delaware and Schuylkill Rivers are a major focus of projects underway. The Pennsylvania Environmental Council is in the midst of several pieces of the development and preservation.

WHYY Morning Edition's Brenda Jorett talked with PEC Senior Vice President Patrick Starr.

Click here to listen to the interview.

2 COALS Luzerne County Cleanups Completed

brad — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 22:48:02 -0500
The Cleanup Our American Lands and Streams (COALS) Program, a program to clean up illegal dump sites, is being implemented in Luzerne County by local partners. For several days in November, COALS cleanups were held at the Lee Road Site and adjacent to Main Street in Plymouth Borough/Plymouth Township, both in Luzerne Countyread more

Forum sparks ideas, hope

brad — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 22:35:29 -0500

By Patty Yauger, Uniontown Herald-Standard

CONNELLSVILLE - A three-day forum to garner the "visions" of city residents, business and property owners of what Connellsville might look like with some minor changes in some cases, and major renovations in others, garnered many ideas, but also it sparked a lot of enthusiasm for what the future may hold for Connellsville.
read more

PEC, Wilkes University Students and Volunteers Plant trees

brad — Thu, 04 Dec 2008 09:51:51 -0500

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council in partnership with Earth Conservancy and Wilkes University conducted a streamside tree planting project at the Penobscot property located in Newport Township on Saturday, November 22, 2008 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Wilkes University Students planted 75 trees, as part of their Soils course, with assistance from community volunteers.
read more

Donegal Community Design Workshop

brad — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 16:08:53 -0500
A Community Design Workshop or "charrette" will be held December 15-17 at Donegal's Highlands Hall Banquet Center, located at the intersection of Routes 31 and 381.

read more

Residents Invited to Envision a ‘New’ Donegal

brad — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 15:58:50 -0500

DONEGAL, PA - The Pennsylvania Environmental Council is inviting Donegal-area residents to help develop a new vision for what the area should look like. PEC will conduct a Community Design Workshop or "charrette" December 15-17 at Highlands Hall Banquet Center, located at the intersection of Routes 31 and 381.
read more

Residents Invited to Envision a ‘New’ Connellsville

brad — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 15:53:19 -0500
CONNELLSVILLE, PA -- The Pennsylvania Environmental Council is inviting Connellsville residents to help develop a new vision for what the heart of the city should look like. PEC will conduct a Community Design Workshop or "charrette" December 12-14 at Connellsville City Hall.
The charrette will visualize priority economic development projects as determined from Trail Town assessments, main street planning, and the multi-municipal planning underway in Connellsville.
read more

Connellsville Community Design Workshop

brad — Mon, 01 Dec 2008 15:48:00 -0500
A community design workshop or "charrette" will be held December 12-14 at Connellsville City Hall.
The charrette will visualize priority economic development projects as determined from Trail Town assessments, main street planning, and the multi-municipal planning underway in Connellsville.

Throughout the workshop, artists will help local residents to share their vision for how particular streets or buildings might look as they are redeveloped and better connected as a way to invite users of the Great Allegheny Passage and other area amenities.
read more

2009 Philadelphia Sustainability Awards Nominations due FRIDAY, January 9th

jessica — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 15:24:11 -0500

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) and seven other regional organizations announce a call for nominations for the 2009 Philadelphia Sustainability Awards.
read more

Tree Planting Scheduled Nov. 22

brad — Fri, 21 Nov 2008 11:11:04 -0500

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council in partnership with Earth Conservancy and Wilkes University will be conducting a streamside tree planting project at the Penobscot property located in Newport Township on Saturday, November 22, 2008 from 9:00 am to 12:00 pm. Wilkes University Students will be planting 125 trees, as part of their Soils course, with assistance from community volunteers.
read more

2009 Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards

jessica — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 13:38:54 -0500

Sponsored by Dominion and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council

Instructions:
read more

Trees Planted along Stream at Hillside Farms

brad — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 14:42:45 -0500

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council in partnership with the Lands at Hillside Farms coordinated a streamside tree planting project at the Lands at Hillside Farm in Trucksville on November 14, 2008.
read more

State officials visit Connellsville to discuss revitalization

brad — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 10:45:57 -0500
By Patty Yauger, Uniontown Herald-Standard
CONNELLSVILLE - The city's initiatives to revamp Yough Park, improve its portion of the Great Allegheny Passage, implement a Main Street Program, work with its neighbors to develop a comprehensive plan, along with recent private investment for new business has caught the attention of state officials.
read more

Shifting the tide toward Delaware River recreation

brad — Tue, 18 Nov 2008 10:34:54 -0500

By JASON NARK
Philadelphia Daily News

In a game of chicken, an oil tanker always beats a kayak.

On the Delaware River, one of the region's most vital economic assets, local environmental groups are trying to turn both types of vessels in the same direction.

Doing so requires an image makeover, they say, and an admission that industry has hoarded both the river and its shoreline for more than a century, damaging its public perception.
read more

Building Green: The state of the region (and the world)

jessica — Tue, 11 Nov 2008 13:13:28 -0500

Spencer Finch and Sandy Wiggins launched the "Building Green" report early in 2008.

Back then, Philly was excited by Mayor Nutter's new sustainability agenda, while Pennsylvania was falling behind from 2nd in the nation to 6th in the number of green
buildings - mostly because we weren't building enough green buildings in this region.
read more

Clean Water Places for 2nd in ‘Elect to Conserve’ Campaign

brad — Thu, 06 Nov 2008 11:43:26 -0500

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council thanks everyone who voted to help make "water conservation" the runner-up in the recently concluded "Elect to Conserve" campaign - a fun way to develop awareness and support for the state's broad conservation initiatives.

PEC was honored to be selected by DNCR as the organization to "campaign" for water with the "iCon" of Montrell in the election that had five different causes paired with five non-profit organizations competing for a $5,000 prize.
read more

PEC Co-Presents Urban Sustainability Forum: Waste Not, Want Not - The Economic Argument for Recycling

jessica — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:46:56 -0400
Urban Sustainability Forum
Waste Not, Want Not: The Economic Argument for Recycling
November 20, 2008
6:00-6:30-Reception
read more

Couples honored for efforts

jessica — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:39:03 -0400

When Judy Rimple moved to the Back Mountain from Colorado in the early 1990s, she was disappointed there weren't more areas to ride her bicycle. She especially longed to ride from her home in Dallas to Wilkes-Barre.

Already involved with the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, Rimple pulled together her husband, David, and several friends in 1993 to form the Anthracite Scenic Trails Association. From there, the Back Mountain Trail was born.
read more

Clean up effort to remove tires

jessica — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 16:10:58 -0400

On Saturday, Sept. 27, a volunteer tire cleanup was held in Mehoopany Township along the Susquehanna River in Wyoming County.

The purpose of Cleanup Our American Lands and Streams Program, a part of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council is to clean up illegal dump sites.
read more

PEC receives more than $100,000 in Take Me to the River grant funding

jessica — Tue, 28 Oct 2008 14:38:08 -0400

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council was among the 13 organizations in the Philadelphia region to receive funding from the Take Me to the River grant program.

The program, administered by the Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission and funded by the William Penn Foundation, awarded $1 million to capital projects, planning projects and programming events. The selected projects help improve the riverfront and create a sense of place.
read more

PEC Supports Pennsylvania Clean Water Ballot Initiative

john — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 13:06:22 -0400

The referendum asks voters if they support allocating $400 million to help communities throughout the Commonwealth fund necessary upgrades to wastewater and drinking water facilities.

The Problem

Help is needed for many of Pennsylvania's 2,200 drinking water systems and 1,060 wastewater systems in order to meet federal and state environmental requirements, ensure clean drinking water, and clean up pollution discharges into our rivers and streams.
read more

Pennypack on the Delaware Trail Extension Grand Opening Ceremony

jessica — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:57:42 -0400
Grand Opening Ceremony
Please join

Fairmount Park Commission and and Delaware River City Corp. as they celebrate the new Pennypack on the Delaware Trail Extension.

Saturday, November 22, 2008

At 10 a.m.

Pennypack on the Delaware Park

Rhawn Street and the Delaware River

(behind the Prison Complex and the Riverview Home for the Aged)

Invited Guest Speakers: Mayor Michael Nutter

& PA DCNR Secretary Michael DiBerardinis

Open to the Public - Come one, come all!
read more

PEC Co-Presents the Urban Sustainability Forum - Lights, Carbon, Action: Energy Action Agenda for Buildings in PA

jessica — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:51:48 -0400
Urban Sustainability Forum
6:00 p.m. - 6:30: Reception
6:30 p.m. - 8:00: Presentation

Academy of Natural Sciences, 19th St. and Ben Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia

Lights, Carbon, Action:
Energy Action Agenda for Buildings in Pennsylvania

Speakers:

Introduction:

Liz Robinson, Executive Director, Energy Coordinating Agency
Assessment of Pennsylvania's Energy Efficiency and Solar Energy Resources:
read more

Fun on the Delaware River

jessica — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 16:28:24 -0400

Click here to hear the podcast!

Reinvigorating Interest in Recreation Along the Delaware River

by KYW's Lauren Lipton

When you think of area fun, it's not usually, "Let's go down to the Delaware River!"

Well, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, which works to get people out and using the state's natural resources, is trying to change that.
read more

Armstrong County seeks Water Trails inclusion

brad — Tue, 21 Oct 2008 11:00:37 -0400

By Tom Mitchell

Kittanning Leader-Times

There's water, fish and wildlife. There are boaters and fishermen, but there's no connection to Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission's system of Water Trails in Armstrong County.

However, if the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, Pittsburgh, and the Allegheny Valley Land Trust and others have their way, the county will be a part of the state's Water Trails program in the next year or so.
read more

UCS Report: Climate Impacts on Pennsylvania

jessica — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 14:53:32 -0400

Urban Watersheds Revitalization Conference

jessica — Wed, 15 Oct 2008 09:59:32 -0400

October 31, 2008
8:30 am - 3:30om
Community College of Philadelphia
The Great Hall
17th Street (between Spring Garden & Callowhill)

Greening Our Streets

read more

Environmental Partnership Awards announced

jessica — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:19:35 -0400

The Northeast Pennsylvania Environmental Partners are proud to announce the recipients of the Environmental Partnership Awards for 2008 which includes two groups from our region: the Countryside Conservancy and Don and Wendy Sweppenheiser.
read more

2,000 miles of water trails in the state have been mapped

jessica — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:15:26 -0400

Creek copes with strains of city life

jessica — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 12:08:14 -0400

Creek copes with strains of city life

By CODY SWITZER

MEADVILLE - The largest city along French Creek lies hidden somewhere beyond these wooded stream banks.

Yes, there are signs that the city and the stream have met - a tire and hubcap, concrete blocks and parts of a coffee pot on the streambed. Shopping carts coated in mud lie on the banks, while others strain leaves from the creek. A buried pipe trickles water into the stream, the rocks below stained orange with rust.
read more

Boaters land another touchpoint

jessica — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 11:47:05 -0400

Boaters land another touchpoint

4th Street site is 18th offering kayak, canoe access

By Allison M. Heinrichs

David Malehorn slipped into his red "toy boat" kayak Wednesday and paddled to the grand opening of the Fourth Street kayak and canoe landing in the South Side.

It was natural for the University of Pittsburgh Cancer Institute researcher, who has kayaked since childhood.
read more

Fall Networking Wine Tasting

jessica — Tue, 14 Oct 2008 10:33:22 -0400

Thursday, November 6th

5:00 - 7:00pm
read more

Annual Members Meeting: A Look at Act 70

jessica — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 16:10:09 -0400

read more

Northeast PA Environmental Partners Announce Dinner, Awards Recipients

jessica — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 14:50:03 -0400

Northeast Pennsylvania Environmental Partners are proud to announce the recipients of the Environmental Partnership Awards for 2008:
read more

Ohiopyle Joint Master Plan and Implementation Strategy

brad — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 16:49:26 -0400

Thinking Like a Watershed

jessica — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 12:00:30 -0400
A creative one day in-service workshop for 4^th through 8^th grade teachers and science curricula coordinators in the school districts of the Chester, Ridley, Crum, and Darby watersheds.
read more

Beaver River Conservation Plan Final

brad — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 11:36:09 -0400

Pittsburgh -- With an eye toward the future of the Beaver River, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council has released the final Beaver River Conservation and Management Plan for the entire Beaver River Corridor. The plan, created as part of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources' Rivers Conservation Program, addresses local and regional conditions and concerns about the river while embracing a variety of conservation initiatives.
read more

Elect to Conserve: Choose water as the most important conservation issue in PA

jessica — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 16:31:47 -0400

DCNR, Partners Sign Pennsylvania Water Trail Agreement

brad — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 15:32:33 -0400

POCONO MANOR, Monroe County - An agreement to encourage the development and enhancement of Pennsylvania Water Trails was signed today by officials from the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission, Pennsylvania Environmental Council and the National Park Service.

Pennsylvania has 21 water trails totaling more than 2,000 miles that have been mapped or are under development.

read more

Help PEC Win the iConserve Campaign for Clean Water

brad — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 13:53:42 -0400

Water - we just can't live without it. Actually, to be clear, "clean" water.... We all need clean water to survive, and not just the water that sustains us as humans: all of the water needed by plants and animals on which we rely for food and so many other things.

Arguably there can be no greater cause for our Commonwealth today than to conserve clean water.
read more

Global warming’s impacts and risks at home identified

brad — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 08:29:54 -0400

A report being released tomorrow by the Union of Concerned Scientists will identify the impacts and risks of global warming in Pennsylvania, underscoring the need for the state to adopt a strong Climate Change Action Plan, the Pennsylvania Environmental Council said today.

The Action Plan is required under legislation passed recently by the State Legislature, and the committee overseeing the plan development met for the first time in September.
read more

PEC encourages municipalities and non-profits to apply for Boating Facilities Grants

jessica — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 17:38:43 -0400
Harrisburg, PA--The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) has announced that non-profits, land trusts, conservancies, and watershed associations may now directly apply for grants through the agency's Boating Facilities Grant Program. The program previously allowed only local government entities to apply for the grants.

read more

Historic Great Lakes Protection Compact Approved by Congress

john — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:59:22 -0400
Contact:
John Walliser
Vice President, Government & Legal Affairs
(412) 481-9400 office
(724) 719-0069 mobile
jwalliser@pecpa.org

For Immediate Release

HISTORIC GREAT LAKES PROTECTION COMPACT APPROVED BY CONGRESS

read more

PEC Releases RFQ for Ohiopyle Project

brad — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:29:44 -0400

PITTSBURGH - The Pennsylvania Environmental Council has issued a Request for Qualifications/Request for Proposals for consultants interested in developing the Ohiopyle Joint Master Plan and Implementation Strategy for both Ohiopyle Borough and Ohiopyle State Park.
read more

Tidal Delaware Race - Surfski, Sea Kayak and Outrigger Canoe

jessica — Tue, 23 Sep 2008 15:30:16 -0400

16 Racers compete in first-ever Tidal Delaware Kayak Race

Sixteen paddlers representing five states competed in the first-ever Tidal Delaware Kayak Race.

Starting from Ridley Township Marina in Ridley Park, PA, racers set off under Rt. 95 and onto the main stem of the Delaware River. They paddled around Little Tinicum Island and then headed up Darby Creek towards the Heinz Wildlife Refuge before heading back to the marina.
read more

Pittsburgh to host Forrest Wood Cup, National Guard Junior World Championship

jessica — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 15:40:29 -0400

FLW Outdoors® and the Pittsburgh Local Organizing Committee announced Thursday that Pittsburgh will play host to the world's richest bass-fishing championship, the $2 million Forrest Wood Cup presented by BP and Castrol, July 30-Aug. 2, 2009, along with the National Guard Junior World Championship July 31-Aug. 1, 2009.

The Forrest Wood Cup, widely considered bass fishing's crown jewel, will be held on the Allegheny, Monongahela and Ohio rivers, pitting the sport's biggest names against one another for a $1 million top award.
read more

Allegheny River Trail part of the big picture

jessica — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 15:20:14 -0400
Allegheny County Chief Executive Dan Onorato and a coalition of municipalities and riverfront development groups yesterday unveiled plans for a 32-mile trail connecting 17 towns along the Allegheny River from Harrison to Millvale.
The trail, which will be known as the Allegheny Valley Trail, is expected to meander through Tarentum, Springdale, Aspinwall and O'Hara, touching parts of the Rachel Carson trail before connecting with the Pittsburgh-Harrisburg Mainline Canal Greenway, which follows 320 miles along the historic Pennsylvania Mainline Canal.
read more

Tugboat Jupiter Tour

jessica — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:32:53 -0400

Click here to see the photo gallery from this and other Tidal Delaware Water Trail events.

10am - 2pm

Departure from Penn's Landing Marina (near Spruce and Columbus Blvd.)
read more

Kayak Penn's Landing

jessica — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 13:19:45 -0400

4:30pm

Penn's Landing Marina (near Spruce and Columbus Blvd.)

PEC and Hidden River Outfitters invites you to paddle with us on the Delaware River. In celebration of PEC's Tidal Delaware Water Trail map and guide, we're hosting several events in the coming weeks to celebrate our tidal rivers.

This is your chance to get ON the water with an experienced guide. All equipment and instruction will be provided - no experience necessary.
read more

Acting DEP Secretary to speak at PEC Annual Members Meeting

jessica — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 14:32:57 -0400

John Hanger, recently sworn in as Acting Secretary of Pennsylvania's Department of Environmental Protection, will address attendees at PEC's Annual Members Meeting on September 17 in Harrisburg.
read more

Mayor Nutter appoints leaders to serve on new Sustainability Advisory Board

jessica — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 11:09:35 -0400
Mayor Michael A. Nutter has appointed leaders from government, non-profits and the private sector to serve on a newly-created Sustainability Advisory Board (SAB). This Board will serve as a leadership group that will assist the Mayor's Office of Sustainability as it defines strategies and goals for developing a coordinated sustainability policy for the City of Philadelphia.

read more

PEC short film selected for Eco Film Forum in Philadelphia

jessica — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:48:58 -0400

“Philadelphia Riverfronts and Trails,” a five-minute television program produced by the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, 3PPG and MiND tv, will be featured at the Eco Film Forum at the GreenFest celebration on September 7 at 3:30.

read more

PEC participates in GreenFest Philly

jessica — Thu, 04 Sep 2008 09:34:15 -0400

Greenfest Philly
Sunday, September 7
11am - 6pm
2nd and South Streets

Eco Film Forum including "Philadephia Riverfronts and Trails"
3:30pm - 6pm
PhillyCarShare Tent: 2nd & Pine Streets
read more

Community Trails Initiative

jessica — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 15:16:41 -0400

Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato and St. Margaret Foundation cordially invite you to celebrate the Community Trails Initiative.

Friday, Sept. 12, 2008 and 10:00 am

Squaw Valley Park - Fox Chapel Road, O'Hara Twp.

Community Trails Initiative is a coalition of municipal leaders, trail and greenway advocates, municipal employees and elected officials from the municipalities of the City of Pittsburgh, Millvale, Shaler, Etna, Sharpsburg, Aspinwall, Fox Chapel, O'Hara.

PEC is one of the partners involved in this event.
read more

Urban Sustainability Forum Presents: Taking Back Our Streets—Cars, People, and Pavement

jessica — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:22:07 -0400

Academy of Natural Sciences (19th and Ben Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia)

6:00-6:30-Reception

6:30-8:30- Forum

The September forum will take place the evening before National PARK(ing) Day and will explore how we can make better use of the large amounts of urban land dedicated to parking and moving automobiles. September 19, 2008 marks the first time that PARK(ing) Day will occur in Philadelphia

Featuring speakers:
read more

PEC Celebrates Park(ing) Day

jessica — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 13:16:17 -0400

Stop by Market Street between 2nd and 3rd to see how PEC will put the "park" in parking space!

PEC and other Old City businesses will participate in Park(ing) Day. This nationwide event started in San Francisco and has now spread across the country. For one day, metered parking spaces throughout the city will become temporary parks, highlighting the importance of
read more

Ambler gets $4M for site's reclamation and cleanup

brad — Mon, 01 Sep 2008 20:15:07 -0400

From The Landsdale Reporter

Reclamation of a brownfield site in Ambler has been awarded $4 million from the Redevelopment Assistance Capital Program (RACP).

Gov. Ed Rendell, state Sen. Stewart Greenleaf state Rep. Rick Taylor made the announcement on Friday.
read more

PEC Annual Members Meeting

jessica — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 12:22:15 -0400

Harrisburg Hilton
One North Second Street
Harrisburg, PA 17101
10am - 1pm

Members Click here to register. Not a member click here to register.

Or call Cyndee O'Malley at 717-230-8044 x21 for more information.
Email: comalley@pecpa.org
read more

State climate change law tackles impact of global warming here

jessica — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 10:00:43 -0400

The creation of a $650 million state fund to spur development of alternative energy sources is one of the heralded achievements of the spring legislative session.

Little attention has been paid to a new state law that tackles an issue closely identified with the search for energy that doesn't come from fossil fuels: global warming.

This law directs state officials to pay closer attention to what's called the impact of climate change in Pennsylvania.
read more

Youghiogheny River of the Year Events 2008

brad — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 10:42:06 -0400

read more

PEC presents the Three Rivers Community Art Gallery at The Sprout Fund’s Hothouse

jessica — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 13:35:56 -0400
Sprout will host its sixth annual Hothouse event, a benefit party and showcase of recently supported projects, on Saturday, August 23, 2008 at The Union Trust Building in Downtown Pittsburgh.PEC will present the Three
read more

Before the Storms: A Southwestern PA Stormwater Conference

jessica — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 13:29:14 -0400

9:00 AM - 3:00 PM (8:30 AM registration and continental breakfast)

Pittsburgh Technical Institute
North Fayette Campus
1111 McKee Road
Oakdale, PA 15071

Fee: $25
Free Parking

Stormwater management is typically a popular topic after the storms, when communities are cleaning up and recovering from the latest flood. This workshop is designed to give municipalities the information on the latest developments and tools that can be used to address stormwater issues before the storms take their toll on our communities.
read more

Tidal Delaware Water Trail Launch at Southeastern Pennsylvania Coast Day

jessica — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 12:35:59 -0400

The Tidal Delaware Water Trail is a 56-mile trail map and guide from Trenton/Morrisville to Marcus Hook that identifies boat launches, safety considerations and things to do and see along the river (fishing, wetlands, attractions).
read more

Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards

jessica — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 10:54:30 -0400

Alt-country artist Jason Ringenberg plays to “kids”

brad — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 10:47:45 -0400

Farmer Jason is the "twin brother" of Jason & the Scorchers frontman Jason Ringenberg (wink-wink), a legend in alternative country. Hot out of Nashville, the Scorchers essentially invented alternative country in the early 1980s with a sound that fused country with punk.

They have been hailed as the best band ever from the modern American South, and in September 2008 will be honored with the Americana Music Association's lifetime achievement award.
read more

Groups backing connecting trails report progress

brad — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 09:46:44 -0400

By Rory Sweeney, Staff Writer, Wilkes-Barre Times Leader

WILKES-BARRE - The city and its neighbor Kingston might be the heart of the Wyoming Valley, but there's one thing they lack that hinders nearby communities: connections to regional recreation trails.

Trails advance toward the city from all directions - the Warrior Trail from the south, the West Side Trail from the north, the Back Mountain Trail from the west and the Delaware and Lehigh Trail from the east - but none connects.
read more

Conewago River Conservation Plan

jessica — Mon, 28 Jul 2008 09:50:53 -0400

The Conewago Creek drains 510 square miles of steep mountain terrain, broad agricultural valleys, lush deciduous and coniferous forests, and several growing communities. As one of the largest subwatersheds within the Lower Susquehanna River drainage, the Conewago Creek has potential to greatly affect the condition of the Chesapeake Bay.

A River Conservation Plan is (according to PA DCNR):
read more

Youghioghey River of the Year Sojourn Fun, Educational

brad — Tue, 22 Jul 2008 16:50:48 -0400

The Pennsylvania 2008 River of the Year was celebrated for four days during the Youghiogheny River Sojourn, which concluded Sunday.

(See a gallery of images from the sojourn here.)
read more

Storm water project complete

jessica — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:02:07 -0400

Stormwater project complete

By Tim Hahn, Erie Daily Times

The grass is finally growing on a 2 1/2 -year project to ease the threat of flooding in the southeastern end of the city.

Work is about complete on a project that is adding a series of swales, retention ponds and plantings to capture and slow the flow of runoff water from upper Pine Street, said Jill Groves of the Meadville Redevelopment Authority.
read more

Working together to solve a problem

jessica — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 12:58:42 -0400

Working together to solve a problem
Horsham, Hathoro and Jenkintown recently signed on to a plan that will look at ways to attack storm water and flooding problems.

By Rich Pietras, staff writer

Trying to hold back a flood by yourself can be futile. But through the efforts of many, powerful buffers can be built.
read more

Public comment period closing on draft walking and biking trail plan

jessica — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 14:26:25 -0400
Philadelphia PA - The Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) is planning to bring more trails and greenways to Southeastern Pennsylvania. While some trails weave through lush parks or along bustling riverfronts, PEC also works to create urban paths that connect communities and businesses, and provide a safe, off-road way to travel by walking or biking.

read more

PEC Praises Pennsylvania Passage of Historic Great Lakes Compact Legislation

john — Thu, 03 Jul 2008 19:27:33 -0400

Date

Event

Description

Contact Info

Website

AUGUST