Pennsylvania Environmental Council

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.

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.

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

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

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

Great Allegheny Passage trail update

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

From the Allegheny Front:

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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:

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.

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

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.

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

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."

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.

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.

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.

Youghiogheny River Water Trail

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

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).

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.

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.

Ohiopyle Smart Transportation Project Approved

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

Black and Gold City Goes Green

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards Dinner

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

FEATURING

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

2009 Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards

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

Sponsored by Dominion and the Pennsylvania Environmental Council

Instructions:

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ohiopyle Joint Master Plan and Implementation Strategy

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards

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

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):

The benefits of trees stretch literally to the sky

brad — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 14:55:49 -0400

Published in The Johnstown Tribune-Democrat

By Brad Clemenson

Communications Director, Pennsylvania Environmental Council

Toyota Hybrid won by Alexandria, PA, Resident

john — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 08:46:02 -0400

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.

Youghiogheny Sojourn: Biking, rafting and fishing the Great Allegheny Passage

brad — Fri, 27 Jun 2008 08:22:44 -0400

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.

Registration Deadline Extended for Youghiogheny Sojourn

brad — Thu, 26 Jun 2008 10:56:34 -0400

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.

Pennsylvania celebrates Youghiogheny River

jessica — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:56:42 -0400

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.

Environmental Praise

jessica — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 16:49:30 -0400

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,

Youghiogheny River of the Year and Sojourn

brad — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 17:18:41 -0400

Bike Rental Options along the Great Allegheny Passage/Yough River

brad — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 11:01:06 -0400

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

Great Allegheny Passage Alternative for the Yough River Sojourn

brad — Tue, 27 May 2008 16:54:20 -0400

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.

Sojourn Registration

brad — Tue, 27 May 2008 11:47:05 -0400

Yough Sojourn Detailed Schedule

brad — Tue, 27 May 2008 11:39:11 -0400

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.

Western PA Environmental Award Winners Announced

brad — Tue, 20 May 2008 15:56:03 -0400

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.

Southside Trail Green Art

jessica — Mon, 19 May 2008 13:52:08 -0400

Southside Trail Green Art (08)

Youghiogheny Named River of the Year

brad — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 16:05:50 -0400

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

PEC Releases Draft Beaver River Conservation and Management Plan

john — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 13:34:16 -0400

For Immediate Release

Contact:
Jen Novak
(412) 481-9400
jnovak@pecpa.org

PEC Accepting Nominations for 2008 Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards

john — Wed, 06 Feb 2008 12:37:05 -0500

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.

PA Climate Change Roadmap presentation at Global Warming Conference 2008

jessica — Tue, 29 Jan 2008 16:47:54 -0500

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.

Focus the Nation Presentation at Carnegie Mellon University

john — Tue, 22 Jan 2008 08:38:26 -0500

PEC will present findings from the Climate Change Roadmap, as well as the Union of Concerned Scientists report on Climate Change and impacts to the U.S. Northeast, at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh.

January 31st, 2008
9:00 a.m.
Location to be announced soon.

Golf Course Best Management Practices

brad — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:05:44 -0500

Watershed Atlas of the Allegheny and Monongahela Rivers

brad — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 13:10:22 -0500

Climate Change Roadmap for Pennsylvania

brad — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 12:34:53 -0500

Land Conservation Initiatives

brad — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 11:59:51 -0500

River Conservation Planning Initiatives

brad — Sat, 22 Dec 2007 10:43:22 -0500

Laurel Highlands Conservation Landscape Initiative

brad — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 14:27:59 -0500

Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards

john — Mon, 17 Dec 2007 12:18:11 -0500

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.

Pine Creek Watershed Coalition

jessica — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 12:04:56 -0500

Beaver River Conservation and Management Plan

jessica — Tue, 11 Dec 2007 11:57:05 -0500

Allegheny Riverfronts Project

jessica — Wed, 28 Nov 2007 13:14:12 -0500

Earth Sciences Week presentation at UPJ

brad — Mon, 19 Nov 2007 15:51:56 -0500

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.

Southwest Region

Michael Crawford — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 09:52:51 -0500

Sharing Stewardship

admin — Sat, 10 Nov 2007 14:09:42 -0500

Pennsylvania Environmental Council

Meetings to address trail from Millvale to Harrison

Seminar in Carnegie touts green roofs

Allegheny Community Trails Public Meetings

Green Roof and Green Landscaping Breakfast

Watershed Implementation Plan for Pine Creek finalized

Allegheny County Community Trails Initiative

Laurel Ridge Interpretive Plan

ALCOSAN Public Meetings

Erie-Pittsburgh Trail Public Meeting

Great Allegheny Passage trail update

Laurel Highlands Interpretive Plan to Be Presented

Secretary Quigley Tours Laurel Highlands Sites

Improvements for Ohiopyle ahead

It's lawmakers obligation to make environment better

Great Allegheny Passage opens another section

Envisioning the possible future of climate change

Casselman River Water Trail Map and Guide Public Meetings

DCNR official takes tour of Connellsville

PEC seeks bids for Ohiopyle Green Infrastructure Project

Adelaide coke ovens-part of resource analyis

Earth Friend Award Video

Earth Friend Award Videos

Earth Friend Award Videos

Earth friend Award Videos

Earth Friend Award Videos

Earth Friend Award Videos

Forrest Wood fishing tournament expected to draw 60,000 fans

Golf courses explore environmentally friendly practices

New identity for Donegal area is in the making

Donegal visioning project public meeting set July 7

Ohiopyle long on history, short on infrastructure funds

Yough River Water Trail map and guide published

Youghiogheny River Water Trail

River Sweep Saturday

River Sweep Saturday

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

Teamwork pays off on Ohiopyle Project

Allegheny County will conduct energy audit

Ohiopyle Smart Transportation Project Approved

Western PA Environmental Awards Winners & Lifetime Achievement Announced

County plans to audit costs of energy use

Lifetime award goes to Latrobe 'trailblazer'

Path of the Flood Trail map and guide now available

Black and Gold City Goes Green

Summit stresses natural resources of area

Laurel Highlands Summit Generates Enthusiasm for Conservation Initiative

Public meeting set for Ohiopyle Joint Master Plan

Ohiopyle Master Plan public meeting set

PEC to speak on climate-change impacts at CVC event

Laurel Highlands Summit April 26-27

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

Millions are being poured into polar opposite clean coal campaigns

Presentation: Rachel Carson’s influence on environmental literacy

Program notes Rachel Carson's influence on environmental literacy

Firm picked to map new Allegheny Valley Trail

Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards Dinner

Representatives gather to continue trail project

Completing the Schuylkill Trail

Transitioning to no-till crop production

Earth Friend Award by PEC at WTAE sponsored by SONY

Let It Rain-from Audubon Magazine

Forum sparks ideas, hope

Donegal Community Design Workshop

Residents Invited to Envision a ‘New’ Donegal

Residents Invited to Envision a ‘New’ Connellsville

Connellsville Community Design Workshop

2009 Western Pennsylvania Environmental Awards

State officials visit Connellsville to discuss revitalization

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

Armstrong County seeks Water Trails inclusion

Boaters land another touchpoint

Ohiopyle Joint Master Plan and Implementation Strategy

Beaver River Conservation Plan Final

Help PEC Win the iConserve Campaign for Clean Water

Global warming’s impacts and risks at home identified

PEC Releases RFQ for Ohiopyle Project

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

Allegheny River Trail part of the big picture

Community Trails Initiative

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