| LOCATION:
Green Tree Borough Municipal Building
10 W. Manilla Ave. Pittsburgh, PA 15220
8:00 - 9:30 a.m.
Come to one of the Downspout Disconnection Workshops to learn how to:
Join us to learn how to disconnect your downpout, install a rain barrel and rain garden, and create a municipal disconnection program for your community.
| LOCATION:
Wilkins Township Community Center
110 Peffer road, Turtle Creek, PA 15145
8:00 - 9:30 a.m.
Come to one of the Downspout Disconnection Workshops to learn how to:
This free workshop will teach participants how to disconnect a downspout, install a rain barrel or rain garden, and create a disconnection program for your community.
LOCATION:
Etna- Fugh Hall
27 Crescent Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15223
8:00 - 9:30 a.m.
Come to one of the Downspout Disconnection Workshops to learn how to:
Signage and street markings included in the project will identify urban walking and bicycling routes for a growing network that encourage alternate transportation modes and make Johnstown a more livable community.
PennDOT OKs $1.5 million project
From The Johnstown Tribune-Democrat
Randy Griffith
rgriffith@tribdem.com
E-mail updates we call e-blasts are put out about every 4 to 6 weeks to provide updates on our efforts throughout the Laurel Highlands. These e-blasts note many of the exciting things being done by our many partners and collaborators, so we suggest that anyone who wants to get a sense of our efforts glance through these updates.
Economic benefits of conservation, recreation and heritage tourism, plus trail development and conservation will be featured topics.
The economic impact of tourism, recreation and green space will be the focus of the second Summit for the Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Initiative scheduled from 9 to 4 on Monday, April 4, 2011, at the Fred Rogers Center of St. Vincent College in Latrobe.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reporter Kaitlynn Riely reports on a recent public meeting to discuss one of the hottest issues in the region - Marcellus Shale drilling. The panel featured PEC VP Jack Ubinger.
Thursday, December 09, 2010
By Kaitlynn Riely, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
Read more: http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/10343/1109340-55.stm#ixzz17cjd7tAN
One of the goals of the Mt. Lebanon Public Library is to provide information so people can make up their own minds about issues, and no topic is hotter in the region than Marcellus Shale gas drilling, said library director Cynthia Richey.
Two Allegheny Riverfront communities adopted new zoning ordinances to promote riverfront development. These communities were selected by PEC for a free program to identify projects and funding sources.
By Mary Ann Thomas
ASPINWALL HERALD
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Officials of at least two local communities have adopted new zoning ordinances that promote riverfront development along the Allegheny River as part of a pilot program to revitalize river towns.
Sharpsburg and Blawnox approved the ordinances earlier this month to help put together the pieces for potential development in an approximately seven-mile swatch of riverfront that includes those boroughs along with O'Hara, Aspinwall, Etna and Millvale.
Pittsburgh Tribune Review covers PEC's efforts to help revitalize river towns through pilot projects that help with stormwater management, water quality flood protection and economic development.
By Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
Monday, October 25, 2010
Six local communities were chosen for a pilot project of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council to revitalize river towns with free professional services, work plans and tips on finding money to pay for the urban makeovers.
Millvale, Etna, Sharpsburg, Aspinwall, O'Hara and Blawnox are the first communities chosen for the countywide project.
Catch this tour as it comes to Pittsburgh! Join PEC for a reception and viewing of the fly fishing film.
Reception & Film Viewing
October 28, 2010
5 PM - 8 PM
Allegheny HYP Club
619 William Penn Place
Pittsburgh, PA 15222
www.flyfishingfilmtour.com
Daily American reporter Dan DiPaolo reports on fundraising efforts to complete a biking and hiking trail in Johnstown.
By DAN DiPAOLO
JOHNSTOWN - Supporters of the Jim Mayer Trail gathered Friday to celebrate donations of more than $10,000 in recent months.
"It's really exciting to see this project moving forward and getting done," said Brad Clemenson, communications director for the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.
The donations have allowed the project partners to construct nearly one mile of trail along the Stonycreek River behind the Johnstown Corp. mill to Central Avenue in Moxham.
WJET news in Erie reports on recent trail developments.
To view the newcast, visit: http://yourerie.com/fulltext/?nxd_id=119305
Work continues to clear a path from here to Pittsburgh and back for hikers, bikers and leisurely strollers.
The Erie to Pittsburgh Trail Alliance visited Penn State Behrend to update people in Erie County about the northwestern to southwestern PA undertaking.
Pittsburgh Post Gazette Reporter Len Barcousky reports on the new landscaping on the green roof of the County Office Building, featuring comments by Janie French, PEC Director of Green Infrastructure Programs.
A black and yellow butterfly landed for a moment on one of the white flowers transplanted on the roof of the County Office Building. Darla Cravotta was delighted to see the insect taking advantage of the new garden under construction 70 feet above Forbes Avenue, Downtown. "It's like a scene from 'Avatar,' " she said. Ms. Cravotta, who is special projects coordinator for Allegheny County Executive Dan Onorato, was one of the tour leaders Tuesday on a visit to the first "green roof" being installed on a government building in southwestern Pennsylvania.
Pittsburgh serves as the North American host city for this United Nations day of celebration. Check out what PEC and partners have planned in the host city!
Pittsburgh-area government officials, business indexes, organizations and individuals will schedule a series of World Environment Day events, as well as events taking place during the six weeks that "bridge the gap" between Earth Day on April 22 and World Environment Day on June 5. The events will highlight the theme for celebrations in Pittsburgh, "Biodiversity - Ecosystems Management and the Green Economy."
Visit www.pittsburghwed.com for details and a list of events.
State Parks and Forests
Parks on Laurel Ridge:
Kooser State Park -- 250 acres park includes a 4-acre lake for fishing and a beach for swimming, nine rustic cabins, a campground and several short trails for hiking and cross-country skiing.
Laurel Hill State Park -- 3,935 acres of mountain terrain with a 63-acres lake and boat rentals, campground and lodge for group overnight rentals.
$1.3 million project will clean water and reduce runoff through permeable pavement, rain gardens and rain barrels
From the Uniontown Herald-Standard
By: STEVE FERRIS
Ohiopyle Borough is using a federal grant to become more environmentally green and do some sprucing up before the peak of the busy summer tourist season.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports on how user fees could pay for improvements to Allegheny County's aging stormwater system. Includes comments by PEC Director of Green Infrastructure Programs, Janie French
By Len Barcousky, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
An expert on stormwater management suggests that local officials look into charging homeowners and businesses user fees to pay for badly needed improvements to Allegheny County's aging system.
Engineer Andrew Reese told a symposium of government officials and experts that a monthly "user fee," not a tax, based on the principle that "the more you pave, the more you pay" would provide a dedicated source of income for maintenance and improvements to the stormwater system.
This is the first in a series of moderate to advanced training intended for engineers and landscape architects with prior knowledge of the topic.
Half Day Workshop
Tuesday, May 15th
7:30 am - 12:00 pm
Connelly Learning Center
1501 Bedford Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
Cost: $75
To register contact Mary Ann at 412-263-1000 or email mvf10@psu.edu by May 20th. Please make check payable to Penn State and mail to: The Penn State Center 1001 Liberty Ave., Pittsburgh, PA 15222
The workshop will focus on:
Surrounding scenic and recreational resources along with the city's historic character create economic potential.
By Judy Kroeger, CONNELLSVILLE DAILY COURIER
Connellsville City Council received an overview of how the city can position itself to take advantage of its place on the Great Allegheny Passage, not only to improve the city but to take advantage of tourism - the state's second most lucrative industry after agriculture.
PEC was awarded a $1.3 million grant for the project summarized below. The project was under construction in the spring of 2010.
This is a green project as described in the RFP (Request for Proposal) published in the PA Bulletin and on the PENNVEST web site.
Counties: Fayette
Municipalities: Ohiopyle Borough
Amtrak station and its connection to Downtown, Yough Station and streetscape concepts build on community visioning to advance local redevelopment efforts.
CONNELLSVILLE, PA - The Pennsylvania Environmental Council has submitted a final report to the Community Foundation of Fayette County's Fayette Community Growth Fund with concept design drawings of three local initiatives that are outgrowths of the community design workshop held a year ago as part of the Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Initiative.
Pitsburgh Post Gazette reporter Karamagi Rujumba highlights public meetings in support of the Allegheny Valley Trail.
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.
PEC cosponsors program that attacts 50 people to hear about the benefits of green roofs for water retention and energy savings.
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.
PEC is a partner in the Community Trails Initiative. Join us, the Friends of the Riverfront and others to review the draft plan. Three dates are available March 2nd, 3rd and 6th.
Tuesday, March, 2nd 6-8 pm Millvale Community Center, 416 Lincoln Avenue, Millvale, PA 15209
Wednesday, March 3rd 6-8 pm Alle-Kiski Museum, 224 East 7th Avenue, Tarentum, PA 15084
Saturday, March 6th 1-3 pm Boyd Community Center, 1220 Powers Run Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238
It's easy to be green! Join this breakfast event to learn the benefits of green roofs and landscaping.
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
New plan identifies 5 main approaches to reducing the impacts of urbanization in the watershed, including using "green streets" and steep slope protection.
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.
Join PEC and others from Allegheny County to discuss riverfront development and community trails from Millvale through Schenley Borough.
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.
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.
PEC, which serves on a regional stakeholder committee to advise the Allegheny County Sanitary Authority on the development of their sewer overflow plan, invites you to attend a series of public meetings.
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.
Join us to hear the latest plans for a trail connecting Western Pennsylvania.
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
The Allegheny Front, environmental radio for Western PA, features an interview with Linda McKenna-Boxx, who recently won a Western PA Environmental Award for her work on the Great Allegheny Passage.
From the Allegheny Front:
People involved with tourism and recreation in the region are invited to review and suggestion priorities for implementation.
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.
The CLI can become a national model by acting and investing around conservation, recreation, community revitalization and sustainability.
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.
Pittsburgh Tribune-Review covers efforts to improve parking, transportation and stormwater issues in Ohiopyle.
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.
PEC President Don Welsh offers an opinion piece in the Harrisburg Patriot about the natural gas severance tax.
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.
KDKA-tv covers the opening of a new section of the Great Allegheny Passage, including comments by PEC Program Manager Hannah Hardy
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.
As the G-20 Summit descends into Pittsburgh, PA leaders like Teresa Heinz, Katie McGinty, John Hanger and PEC's Scott Van de Mark share their thoughts on addressing climate change.
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.
Help develop a water trail! Share your thoughts at one of THREE public meetings (Sept. 15th, 16th & 17th). Tell us your thoughts on recreational opportunities, history, tourism and local businesses.
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
Partnerships between the city, DCNR, DCED, PEC and the Trail Town Program seen as vital to moving from the drawing board to implementation.
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.
General contract bid consists of the installation of rain barrels with downspout and gutter repair/installation throughout the Ohiopyle Borough; and pervious pavement, bioswales/rain gardens, landscaping, asphalt pavement repair, and concrete sidewalks on demonstration streets –Sherman Street, part of Lincoln Street and part of Sheridan Street.
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:
Excerpt from 1992 AIHP Coal & Coke Resource Analysis is attached.
The tournament showcases the revival of Pittsburgh's rivers, says PEC Vice President Davitt Woodwell, who co-chairs the event's organizing committee.
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.
Handbook helps golf courses reduce costs by saving water and other sound operations, and how to add value through wetlands and natural floodplains.
From the Pottstown Mercury
By Brian McCullough, Journal Register News Service
Donegal, a Turnpike exit surrounded by tourist attractions, strives to become a sustainable destination in the Laurel Highlands.
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."
Public comment and support are needed for improving and enhancing this critical gateway to the Laurel Highlands.
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.
Joint master plan coordinated by PEC seeks to make both the borough and the state park more sustainable.
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.
Learn where to put in, take out and what to look for on the way down this remarkably scenic and historic river, which has a section noted for whitewater and other sections with flatwater.
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.
Join us to help clean up the banks of the Monongahela River!
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).
PEC op-ed featured in the Herald Standard
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.
PEC supports Allegheny County's energy audit as part of PA Climate Change Roadmap.
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.
PEC and partners seek to better integrate bike, pedestrian and vehicular traffic through congested heart of one of Pennsylvania's premier visitor destinations.
5 winners were announced in Pittsburgh. Plus Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Linda McKenna Boxx, the driving force behind the Great Allegheny Passage, was honored.
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.
PEC hopes the audit will help Allegheny County draw up a climate action plan, like Pittsburgh did last year.
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.
Linda Boxx will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award for her work on the Great Allegheny Passage from the Pennsylvania Environmental Council Wednesday at the Westin Convention Center Hotel.
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.
Johnstown Flood of 1889 interpreted along with the oldest railroad tunnel in America along 10 miles of trail.
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 8.5 x 14-inch maps can be printed out from the PEC web site at /sites/pecpa.org/files/downloads/Path_of_Flood_Final_Brochure.pdf.
Economic potential in resource-connected communities is emphasized in conference that attracted over 150 participants.
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.
160 people participate in two-day program highlighting the potential for a sustainable region surrounding some of the Commonwealth’s most special places.
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.
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.
Ohiopyle effort is a centerpiece project of the Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Initiative.
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.
Conemaugh Valley Conservancy's annual meeting features a pot luck dinner and a report on expected impacts of climate change in Pennsylvania.
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.
Summit Aims to Expand Laurel Highlands Economy using natural, 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 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.
PEC supports the Conservation Landscape Initiative focused on how recreation and nature can stimulate the economy
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.
Pittsburgh Tribune Review reporter Joe Napsha looks at the clean coal debate in PA.
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.
Part of Outdoor Heritage Month schedule with activities and events in Johnstown, Bedford and near Somerset.
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.
The Outdoor Heritage Month calendar is filled with events and activities for kids and adults throughout April.
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.
PEC partners in 32-mile trail project that will be part of systems linking Harrisburg and Erie.
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.
Join us for the Western PA Environmental Awards dinner, sponsored by PEC and Dominion.
FEATURING
Titusville Herald reports on the Erie to Pittsburgh Trail Alliance annual meeting, PEC's western PA offices serve on the alliance.
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.
As covered by the Philadelphia Review, PEC is part of a group of organizations working to complete the vision for a completd and connected Schuylkill River Trail in the Philadelphia Region.
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.
Daily American reporter Melanie Barkley looks at Bedford County efforts to save farmers fuel and labor costs.
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.
The Earth Friend Award is presented by WTAE and PEC, and sponsored by SONY. This award honors environmental improvements and community greening in the Pittsburgh region.
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.
PEC's Pittsburgh-area rainwater project is noted in magazine published by the National Audubon Society.
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.
Article from the Uniontown Herald-Standard highlights PEC's community workshop.
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.
Gateway to the Laurel Highlands faces challenges and opportunities with visitors.
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.
The beauty and recreational assets of the Laurel Highlands is creating sustainable economic opportunities for this key gateway.
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.
Ohiopyle, the Great Allegheny Passage from Pittsburgh to Washington, DC, and other nearby attractions are creating economic opportunity.
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.
Help envision a "new" Connellsville enlivened by recreation and history.
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.
Sponsored by Dominion and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council
Winners of the Western Pennsylvania Environmental Award each receive:
Officials from two state agencies see the community's potential in its history, natural resources and location along the trail.
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.
PEC helped to promote DCNR’s iConserve election campaign in support of the cause of “Water Conservation”
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.
PEC works with Allegheny Valley Land Trust and others to support development of a new water trail.
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.
By Allison Heinrichs, Pittsburgh Tribune-Review
A look at more kayak access in Pittsburgh and PEC's new partnership with DCNR to expand the statewide water trails program
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.
The final Conservation and Management Plan is ready for implementation.
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.
Support the cause of clean water – and support PEC as a participant in DCNR’s iConserve election campaign competing with other non-profits for a $5,000 prize.
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.
Union of Concerned Scientists report will spell out what’s at stake for citizens of Pennsylvania as the Commonwealth begins work on state plan.
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.
Landmark project will address immediate needs and long-range sustainability for small community and large, popular State Park.
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.
Pittsburgh will play host to the world's richest bass-fishing championship in July-Aug 2009. PEC VP co-chairs the local organizing committee.
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.
By Karamagi Rujumba, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette: A look at plans for a 32 mile trail connecting towns along the Allegheny River.
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.
Celebrate this initiative to turn 32 miles of riverfront from Millvale to Tarentum into trails and greenways, and connect communities to the riverfronts
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.
Sprout will host its sixth annual Hothouse event, a benefit party and showcase of recently supported projects. Come learn about the Three Rivers Community Art Gallery, a public rotating art gallery along the Three Rivers Heritage Trail that was funded by The Sprout Fund.
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
Stormwater management is typically a popular topic after the storms, when communities must clean up and recover from the latest flood. Learn to address stormwater issues before the storms take their toll on our communities.
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.
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):
Op-Ed highlights the importance of Pennsylvania's Carbon Management Action Group Report.
Published in The Johnstown Tribune-Democrat
By Brad Clemenson
Communications Director, Pennsylvania Environmental Council
PEC raffle fundraiser is huge success in attracting support to advance the mission of "Conservation through Cooperation."
John Dawes of Alexandria, PA, won a Toyota Prius hybrid vehicle donated to the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC) by Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc.
The raffle was highly successful, according to PEC Acting President and CEO Paul King, who noted that nearly all of the 999 tickets available were sold and raised about $40,000 for the council, a non-profit organization that focuses on water quality, sustainable communities and energy and climate issues.
Pittsburgh Post-Gazette features Pennsylvania's 2008 River of the Year in article highlighting the upcoming Sojourn.
By Lawrence Walsh, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette
A river of the year, a bike trail of distinction, a network of historic towns and an opportunity to enjoy them all.
July 3 is the new deadline to register for Pennsylvania’s River of the Year Sojourn Registration Deadline; the Youghiogheny Sojourn celebrates scenic resource and the waterway's improvement.
The deadline for registration for the Youghiogheny River of the Year Sojourn has been extended until July 3. All registration material is available on line at http://www.pecpa.org.youghsojourn/.
A news release with more details, issued June 20 by the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation & Natural Resources, follows.
Celebrating the Youghiogheny, including PEC's River Sojourn. Pennsylvania Township News.
Townships have a chance to celebrate the beauty and value ofthe state's rivers this month, which has been designated Pennsylvania Rivers Month.
Sponsored by the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the annual celebration highlights rivers as an invaluable resource for recreation, drinking water, navigation, and natural beauty.
PEC and Dominion award Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards. Pittsburgh Tribune Review.
Five area environmental programs were honored as winners of the 2008 Westem Pennsylvania Environmental Awards, co-sponsored by Dominion Resources Inc, and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.
Winners are: Children's Museum of Pittsburgh; the Southwestern Pennsylvania Household Hazardous Waste Task Force; the South Fayette Conservation Group; Construction Junction; and the Suzanne B. DeArment Tamarack Wildlife Rehabilitation and Education Center,
People wishing to rent a bicycle for all or part of the Youghiogheny River Sojourn may rent bikes from the following businesses. A list of shuttle services also is provided for anyone wishing to take a longer one-way ride and get a shuttle back. NOTE: rentals and these shuttles are NOT INCLUDED in sojourn pricing. This list is providing simply to offer an alternative.
Bike Rental Options
Confluence, PA
In celebrating the selection of the Youghiogheny as River of the Year, our 2008 Sojourn is focused on boating, but we certainly recognize the Great Allegheny Passage as a phenomenal resource, not only on the 70 miles parallel to the Yough River but downstream toward Pittsburgh and upstream beyond Meyersdale to Cumberland, Md.
In all, the Passage offers 132 miles of off-road, nearly level peddling (as opposed to paddling), linking Pittsburgh with Washington, DC, via the C&O Canal Towpath beyond Cumberland.
The following detailed schedule for the Youghiogheny River of the Year Sojourn is subject to change. This schedule is posted to give people the estimated times. The Sojourn is promoting use of the river, but a bicycling alternative is outlined here.
Awards to be presented May 28 at annual dinner at Westin Convention Center; Treasurer Robin Weissmann to present Keynote.
PITTSBURGH, May 7 -- Five area environmental programs have been named as the winners of the 2008 Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards, announced today by Dominion and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council.
These five programs address a wide range of local and regional environmental issues, including acid mine drainage, building sustainability, wildlife protection and hazardous waste management and were chosen from entries submitted earlier this year.
As part of efforts to liven up Allegheny County's riverfronts, Friends of the Riverfront and PEC have embarked on the Southside Trail Green Art (08) Project with Austin Green Art. May 16-23.
Southside Trail Green Art (08)
PEC to revive Yough Sojourn as part of year-long celebration
Several newspapers carried stories today reporting that the Youghiogheny River has been designated River of the Year by the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
The articles noted that the Pennsylvania Environmental Council will play a central role in promoting the River of the Year by, among other things, helping to revive the Yough Sojourn.
Excerts from two of those articles follow.
Tourist-favorite Youghiogheny honored
Public Input to Help Ensure River Can Be Enjoyed by Future Generations
For Immediate Release
Contact:
Jen Novak
(412) 481-9400
jnovak@pecpa.org
Nominations due by March 12, 2008.
The Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards recognizes and honors outstanding achievements of organizations, businesses, and individuals in a wide range of environmental initiatives throughout the region and pays tribute to those that have demonstrated a commitment to environmental excellence, leadership, and accomplishment in their respective fields.
PEC President and CEO Brian Hill will present the Climate Change Roadmap for Pennsylvania at PennFuture's Global Warming Conference.
Saturday, April 5, 2008
9:30am - 3:00 pm
La Roche College
College Center Square
9000 Babcock Boulevard, Pittsburgh
Lunch included
Brian Hill joins a panel of national and regional experts and leaders on climate change. Visit the PennFuture web site for more details.
The annual Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards will be held on May 28, 2008 in Pittsburgh.
This awards program recognizes and honors outstanding achievements of organizations, businesses, schools and individuals in a wide range of environmental initiatives throughout the region. The awards pay tribute to those who have demonstrated a committment to environmental excellence, leadership and accomplishment in their respective fields.
Johnstown, October 10, 2007 – Brian Hill, president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Environmental Council (PEC), will discuss how global warming could impact Pennsylvania and what Pennsylvania should be doing to address climate change Wednesday, October 17 at 7:00 p.m., in room 138 Blackington Hall on the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown campus.
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The race will benefit the Pennsylvania Environmental Council, a local non-profit environmental organization that protects and restores the natural and built environments through innovation, collaboration, education and advocacy.