Spring 2015 Newsletter Volume 1, Issue 2
Conservation Matters Spring is coming! A definite sign of spring in our office is busy preparation for projects to come this spring and summer. We have a number of streambank restoration projects, tree plantings, and farm projects keeping our technicians busy with planning and coordination. If you see us out and about this year, please stop and say hi. Perhaps we can provide some education as to what we are doing. Enjoy the warmer weather. We hope to see you out in the field! Sincerely,
Judy Becker
Inside this issue D&G/LVR Trainings ................. ...2
Have you checked out our website? You can find more information about our programs, copies of publications, permit applications, and upcoming d a t e s ! V i s i t www.nccdpa.org. We update the website on a regular basis. Also visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/nccdpa and “like” our page. You’ll receive updates from us on current and upcoming programs.
3rd Annual Winter Forum ....... ...2 Support the NCCD ................... ...3 Gypsy Moth. ............................. ...3 Musings/Random Thoughts…....4 LSCWA Youth Trout Derby ...... ….4 Ag E&S Control Plans .............. ….5 NCCD Annual Tree Sale .......... ….6 County Happenings ................. ….6 D&G/LVR Program Updates……..7 Manure Apps…………………………...8 NRCS Updates…………………….…..9 A Streambank Strategy……….….10 PA Ag Ombudsman Program…..11 Directors and Staff…………………12
Our Programs: Erosion and Sedimentation Control, National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), Dam Safety and Waterway Management, Environmental Education, Nutrient Management, Chesapeake Bay Program, Dirt & Gravel Roads, Agricultural Land Preservation, Watershed Protection and Education
Visit www.nccdpa.org for more informaƟon. We are also on Facebook at www.facebook.com/nccdpa.
Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Paved Road Program Training Opportunities The Center's Environmentally Sensitive Maintenance (ESM) Course is an intense two-day classroom session focused on providing the knowledge and tools necessary for road owners to maintain roads in a more cost-efficient and environmentally sensitive manner. The Center holds approximately 10 ESM Courses at locations around Pennsylvania every year. The course runs form 8 am to 4 pm for two days and includes lunch. The course is free to municipal, county, and state agencies involved with PA's Dirt and Gravel Road Program. This course provides 1.3 Continuing Education Units from the PSU College of Engineering. Potential Grant Applications: In order to be eligible to apply for Program funds, the person in charge of work plan development and project implementation from the road-owning entity must have attended environmentally sensitive maintenance (ESM) training within the past five (5) calendar years. This training, and all past 2-day ESM trainings, counts as eligibility to apply for BOTH Dirt and Gravel and (paved) Low Volume Road funds for a period of five (5) calendar years. 2015 Trainings: Regional ESM trainings with a capacity of 200 attendees each have been scheduled for the first half of 2015. Please note that due to expected demand, these trainings will be larger and may require more travel than normal.
Course registration is required; no walk-ins allowed if t r a i n i n g i s a t c a p a c i t y . Training is available at no cost to representatives of any public agency involved in the Pennsylvania's Dirt Gravel, and Low Volume Road Program. All other interested parties are invited to attend. Please register via the online link below. If you have any questions, please call Kathy Moir at 814-865-5355 for registration information and fees. NO MAILED IN REGISTRATIONS! A LIMITED NUMBER OF OPENINGS ARE AVAILABLE; PLEASE REGISTER AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Registration will be closed 3 days prior to the scheduled program. You can register by going to the Centers for Dirt & Gravel Roads Studies at the following link: http://www.dirtandgravel.psu.edu/edu_training/ esm_course.html and clicking the registration link at the bottom of the page. Dates and Locations: March 31 & April 1: Armstrong County April 14 & 15: Bedford County May 6 & 7: Washington County May 26 & 27: Luzerne County June 2 & 3: Warren County June 16 & 17: Lycoming County
3rd Annual Winter Forum On March 3, 2015 the NCCD held their 3rd Annual Winter Forum at the Revival Tabernacle in Watsontown for farmers, municipalities and contractors. Attendees received 2 category credits and 2 core credits, as well as a delicious lunch from Crouse Catering of Williamsport. Presenters included Joel Imgrund and Chris Houser of Penn State Extension, Mark Lonergan and Dave Rebuck of DEP, Eric Beaver and Jim Clauser of PPL, and Eric Nevel of the Center for Dirt and Gravel Roads. We had 15 vendors on hand including Crop Production Services of Bloomsburg; Pine Hurst Acres/Channel Seed of Danville; Dupont Pioneer; Cen-Pe-Co of Watsontown; AgChoice Farm Credit of Lewisburg; Hoover Tractor of Mifflinburg; KW Enterprises LLC of Milton; Rovendale Ag and Barn of Watsontown; Productivity Products and Services, Inc. of Saxonburg; Gowan Company of Lafayette, New York; Valley Ag and Turf of Watsontown; PPL; Sunbury Motor Company; KIZ Resources LLC of Altoona; and Midland Asphalt Materials, Inc. of Woodland. We thank all of our speakers and vendors for their participation and sponsorship!
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Support the NCCD! There are many ways to get involved with our organization. We welcome your involvement, as well as your ideas and input! Visit our website at www.nccdpa.org to see how you can get involved with NCCD today, either through volunteering or becoming an affiliate member. We recognize our 2015 Affiliate Members and thank them for their support! Friend of Conservation: PPL Corporation, Bloomsburg Associate Members: Ag Choice Farm Credit ACA, Lewisburg Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc., Shamokin Blair and Mary Carbaugh, Danville Daniel Shingara Enterprises, Inc., Paxinos First National Insurance, Selinsgrove Great Valley Consultants, Wyomissing H.H. Knoebel Sons, Inc., Elysburg Keystone Group Agricultural Seeds, New Columbia Larson Design Group, Williamsport Mark Ferster & Sons Excavating, Dornsife Mensch Recycling, Sunbury Pioneer, New Columbia Robert C. Snyder Farms, Inc., Northumberland Rovendale Ag and Barn, Inc., Watsontown Sandra Shaffer Mattern, Dalmatia Scattered Acres Farm, Elysburg Susquehanna Bank Turbotville National Bank, Turbotville Watson Excavating, Inc., Watsontown
Gypsy Moth The NCCD office has received a number of inquiries regarding Gypsy Moth infestations. It is likely to expand in the spring of this year. It’s advisable that landowners who want to protect susceptible trees begin looking at contractors now and get with neighbors to achieve discounts by aggregating areas together. The District has a fact sheet, as well as a list of aerial spray contractors available on our website: www.nccdpa.org. For more information on Gypsy Moth, please contact Scott Stitzer at the DCNR Bureau of Forestry office in Aristes at 570-875-6450 x114.
Gypsy Moth Life Cycle
Contributing Members: Valley Ag and Turf, Halifax Affiliate Members: Brewers’ Outlet, Sunbury Central Builders Supply Company, Sunbury Fairchild Brothers, Inc., Winfield Hilltop Environmental Engineering, Inc., New Berlin
KIZ Resources, LLC, Altoona Lenape Solar, LLC, Sunbury Mahantango Game Farm, LLC, Dalmatia Dennis Martz, Dalmatia Representative Kurt Masser, 107th District
Representative Lynda Schlegel Culver, 108th District
Paul Q. Ross Construction, Inc., Sunbury Pik Rite, Inc., Lewisburg RHP Law Group, LLC, Selinsgrove Sunbury Animal Hospital, Sunbury
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Musings and Random Thoughts I have never felt an affinity or connection to the Chesapeake Bay. I love its oysters and crabs; but let’s face it, the Bay is more than two hours south by auto and a distant ecosystem in a neighboring state. We know that the Susquehanna River contributes ninety percent of the fresh water to this estuary, and this fact makes us at least partially responsible for the Bay’s problems, but it does not bring the Bay any closer to home or provide a deep emotional connection. The Mahantango Creek, the watershed in which I live and the Creek I cross on a daily basis, is quite a different story. I am connected to this Creek and the Creek is connected to me. I never fail to observe the condition of the Mahantango as I cross or travel along its banks. Is the water high or low, moving fast or slow, is it clear or brown, is someone fishing, are there critters around, when was the last rain or snow melt that would affect the Creek? The Mahantango has a connection to me in that my activities affect the Creek’s water quality. I am a home owner. My choices of landscape species, fertilization and weed control, septic system maintenance, storm water from my impervious areas, emissions from my
powered vehicles, how I heat my home, how I dispose of my trash, how I protect the soil from erosion all have an impact on the quality and quantity of my Creek. If I were a farmer, some of the words from the last sentence would change and the scale of the operation would increase but the impacts of the choices are the same. We all live in a watershed and that watershed feeds a creek. I would urge all the citizens of Northumberland County to establish a connection to their Creek. Observe the condition of the stream on a regular basis, note the good and bad changes, join an existing watershed organization or start one, get involved with the Conservation District. Most important, look at your home and land for ways that you can improve the quality of your Creek. If we take care of our Creeks the Bay will take care of itself. Enjoy the oysters. by Mike Hubler, NCCD Associate Director
Little Shamokin Creek Watershed Association Youth Trout Derby The mission of the Little Shamokin Creek Watershed Association is to promote stewardship that will conserve, protect, assess, enhance, utilize and restore the natural resources of the Little Shamokin Creek watershed. The Little Shamokin Creek Watershed Assoc., in conjunction with the NCCD and other civic minded individuals and organizations, have been hosting a youth trout fishing derby for the last 3 years. The watershed group’s focus for these events is to promote outdoor recreation and the importance of a healthy environment to the young people in our local communities. Youth from all areas are eligible and there is no fee to participate. Planning and support is provided by association members and other volunteers. The participants are each given an outdoor related gift, a commemorative lapel pin, and provided with food and beverage. Additional trout are procured by the association to assure that adequate trout are available for the youth to catch. The section of the creek for the derby is made available to fishing exclusively for children 12 years of age and younger. In past years this section of creek was 0.7 mile. For 2015 this creek frontage has been extended to 1.1 miles. Much of the creek frontage reserved for this event is owned by the watershed association, and the rest by other supporting landowners. Good fishing locations were found where stream bank stabilization and fish habitat structures had been constructed in recent years. Youth participation has grown each year since the derby’s inception, with 160 participants at our first event in 2012 and more than 250 at the 2014 derby. For the 2015 derby we are preparing for 300 participants. For more information on this event, visit us on Facebook: Little Shamokin Creek Watershed Assoc.
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Agricultural Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plans The revised Chapter 102 regulations that were released in 2011 by the PA DEP include new regulations that affect farmers. All farms that till or plow (including no-till) must make use of Best Management Practices (BMP) to minimize erosion and sedimentation. Any farm that plows or tills more than 5,000 square feet must have a written Agricultural Erosion and Sedimentation Control Plan (Ag E&S Plan). In addition, any farm that contains an Animal Heavy Use Area (AHUA), sometimes called an ACA (Animal Concentration Area), must also have a written Ag E&S Plan. According to PA Chapter 102.1, an AHUA is a “Barnyard, feedlot, loafing area, exercise lot, or other similar area on an agricultural operation where due to the concentration of animals it is not possible to establish and maintain vegetative cover of a density capable of minimizing accelerated erosion and sedimentation by usual planting methods.” Below is taken from PA Chapter 102.4 regarding Ag E&S Plans: 102.4. Erosion and sediment control requirements. (a) For agricultural plowing or tilling activities or for animal heavy use areas, the following erosion and sediment control requirements apply: (1) The implementation and maintenance of erosion and sediment control BMPs are required to minimize the potential for accelerated erosion and sedimentation, including for those activities which disturb less than 5,000 square feet (464.5 square meters). (2) Written E&S Plans are required for the following activities that disturb 5,000 square feet (464.5 square meters) or more of land: (i) Agricultural plowing or tilling activities. (ii) Animal heavy use areas. (3) The landowner, and any lessee, renter, tenant or other land occupier, conducting or planning to conduct agricultural plowing or tilling activities, or operating an animal heavy use area, are jointly and individually responsible for developing a written E&S Plan and implementing and maintaining BMPs, including those identified in the E&S Plan. (4) The E&S Plan must include cost-effective and reasonable BMPs designed to minimize the potential for accelerated erosion and sedimentation from agricultural plowing or tilling activities and animal heavy use areas. (i) For agricultural plowing or tilling activities, the E&S Plan must, at a minimum, limit soil loss from accelerated erosion to the soil loss tolerance (T) over the planned crop rotation. (ii) For agricultural plowing and tilling activities that will occur on fields with less than 25% plant cover or crop residue cover and within 100 feet of a river, or perennial or intermittent stream, additional BMPs shall be implemented to minimize accelerated erosion and sedimentation. (iii) For animal heavy use areas, the E&S Plan must identify BMPs to minimize accelerated erosion and sedimentation. BMPs and their design standards are listed in the current amended and updated version of the appropriate National Resources Conservation Service conservation practice standards such as Heavy Use Area Protection, Critical Area Planting, Fencing, Wastewater Treatment Strip, Constructed Wetland, Use Exclusion, Animal Trails and Walkways, Diversions and Roof Runoff Structure. (5) The E&S Plan must contain plan maps that show the location of features including surface waters of this Commonwealth, and drainage patterns, field and property boundaries, buildings and farm structures, animal heavy use areas, roads and crossroads, and BMPs; soils maps; and a description of BMPs including animal heavy use area practices and procedures, tillage systems, schedules, and crop rotations. The plan must be consistent with the current conditions and activities on the agricultural operation. (6) The E&S Plan must contain an implementation schedule. The plan shall be implemented according to the schedule, and the BMPs shall be operated and maintained as long as there are agricultural plowing or tilling activities or animal heavy use areas, on the agricultural operation. (7) The portion of a conservation plan that identifies BMPs utilized to minimize accelerated erosion and sedimentation from agricultural plowing or tilling activities, or from operation of animal heavy use areas, may be used to satisfy the E&S Plan requirements of this subsection if it meets the requirements of paragraphs (4)—(6). If you are in need of an Agricultural Erosion and Sediment Control Plan, the District can assist you. Please contact Nathan Brophy, Agricultural Conservation Technician at (570) 495-4665 at extension 304.
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NCCD Annual Tree Sale Just a reminder, the Northumberland County Conservation District will be holding our Annual Tree Sale on April 22 and 23, 2015 at the Rockefeller Township building located at 538 Seven Points Road, Sunbury, PA 17801. If you ordered trees, you will receive a reminder in the mail prior to the pick up dates. If you did not order trees, we may have extras available on a first come, first serve basis. Stop by and visit us at the Rockefeller Township building on the pick up dates from 7am until 7pm.
NCCD Tree sale
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What’s Happening in Northumberland County? A lot of the utilities in the county are being improved or expanded to meet the needs of the future. Aqua Pennsylvania, Inc., a major supplier of drinking water, is upgrading supply and service lines; in some instances replacing lines that have been in service since the 1930’s. They have several projects currently under construction or on which construction is about to begin: NPDES Permit # PAG 02004914005 authorizes the current construction of new water mains in the Village of Overlook in Ralpho Township. Work on this project is progressing along Airport Road (SR 2018), Mountain Road (SR 2020), Overlook Blvd., Lawrence Ave., Mercer Ave., and S. Harding Ave. Permit # PAG 02004914010 authorizes the construction of water mains near Elysburg and Paxinos in Ralpho Township. This project will install new water mains along Montour Road, Hillcrest Drive, Bradford Lane, Andrew Street, Fairview Street, Madison Avenue, Birchwyn Drive, Aspen Street, Veteran’s Way, Memorial Park Road and East Center Street. Work is expected to begin in the spring of 2015. Three waste water treatment plant expansion projects are under construction or will begin construction in the spring of 2015. Permit # PAG 0200491018 authorizes the expansion of the Shamokin, Coal Township Joint Sewer Authority’s treatment plant expansion in Ralpho Twp. This project has been ongoing for some time. Permit # PAI 02004910001 authorizes the expansion of the Milton Regional Sewer Authority’s treatment plant in the Borough of Milton. This project has also been under construction for a few years. Permit # PAG 02004913011 authorizes the expansion of the Northumberland Borough treatment plant and Queen Street Pump Station. This project is scheduled to begin in the spring of 2015. Other current projects in the county are: Permit # PAG 02004913001 The Anthracite Outdoor Adventure Area Trailhead in Coal Township. This project was nearly complete but a Minor Modification has been authorized to include an additional stabilized parking area and 2 small pavilions. Permit # PAG 02004913008 authorizes the construction of new sanitary sewer lines in the Lithia Springs area of Point Township and includes work on Spruce Hollow Road (SR 1037), Spring House Road, Ridge Road (SR 1024), Bulk Plant Road, Bird Lane, Chris-Ron Lane, Mountain Road, Peters Road, and Roush Road. Permit # PAG 02004914001 authorizes the demolition of the C.W. Rice School in Northumberland and the construction of a new Middle School. Work is expected to begin in the spring of 2015. Permit # PAG 02004914004 authorizes the expansion of the Weis Distribution Center in Milton. Work on this project is expected to begin in the Spring of 2015. Permit # PAG 02004914007 authorizes the Reconstruction of Chestnut Street in the City of Sunbury. Work is expected to begin on this project in the spring of 2015. Permit # PAG 020049009 authorizes the relocation of PPL’s Sunbury to Milton 69kV Transmission Line in West Chillisquaque and Point Townships. This line is being relocated in conjunction with the Northern Section of the Central Susquehanna Valley Thru-way (CSVT) which is currently under review for permitting. The CSVT is expected to begin construction in the fall of 2015.
Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Paved Road Program Updates The Dirt, Gravel, and Low Volume Paved Road Program is governed by state law and policy established by the Center for Dirt and Gravel Roads; however conservation districts are encouraged to develop local policies compatible with state mandates. The Quality Assurance Board (QAB) of the Northumberland County Conservation District met on February 13, 2015 to review our local policies and to make recommendations to the District’s Board of Directors that make said policies compatible with the recent changes in the program. On March 11, 2015, the District Board of Directors accepted the QAB’s recommended policy changes, which are:
Cost over runs will be limited to 10% of the initial contract amount and will be approved at the discretion of the District Board of Directors upon recommendation from the QAB. This is not a paving program; therefore, the NCCD will consider funding pavement on a case by case basis. The District will purchase vehicle counters which will be made available to the municipalities for use in verifying volume of traffic on Low Volume Paved Roads. The proposed project sites will be video recorded by the District. These recordings will be sent to the QAB members with copies of the applications. The QAB members may view the sites individually prior to meeting for selection. If it is determined that a site requires further review, the QAB may perform a Field View as a group. The proposed projects will be subject to the District’s Ranking Criteria during the selection process. The NCCD will not pay for municipalities to send representatives to ESM trainings.
For more information call Michael McCleary at (570) 495-4665 extension 302.
Funding Update... We have received our allocation for the Dirt, Gravel and Low Volume Paved Road Program. We will be accepting applications for funding through this program until May 15, 2015. All public entities that own public roads in Northumberland County which are open to public vehicle travel are eligible to apply for Program funding through the Northumberland County Conservation District. This includes state, county, municipalities, and municipal authorities within the county. Only entities with an employee who has been certified in Environmentally Sensitive Maintenance techniques are eligible to receive funding through this program. A letter will be sent out to all eligible entities with revised application forms and policies to be used in submitting applications. If you have any questions about applying for this funding round, please contact Michael McCleary at (570) 495-4665 extension 302.
Linden Road, Shamokin Township (before)
Linden Road, Shamokin Township (during)
Linden Road, Shamokin Township (after)
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Technology is driving many exciting possibilities in agriculture. The increase in use of smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices is changing the way people consume information and interact with each other. One exciting opportunity is to utilize smartphone apps to make farm record keeping easier. With that in mind, below are a list of apps you may want to check out!
Manure Valuator Content contact: Karl VanDevender, University of Arkansas, Division of Agriculture Programing contact: Dharmendra Saraswat, University of Arkansas, Division of Agriculture
About the App: Manure Valuator es mates the inorganic fer lizer replacement value of manure using: the manure nutrient content; commercial inorganic fer lizer prices; and the N, P, and K fer lizer recommenda on for the receiving crop. Fer lizer prices in $/lb of N, P2O5, and K20 can be entered directly or calculated from user supplied bulk fer lizer prices. Modifiable typical manure nutrient content values are supplied for various liquid and dry manures. Download at: App Store or h ps://itunes.apple.com/us/app/manure‐valuator/id757582921? mt=8 Play Store or h ps://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=uaex.edu.manurecalculator
Manure Monitor Contact person: Jill Heemstra, University of Nebraska ‐ Lincoln
About the App: Manure Monitor is a u lity that includes a farm emergency plan (for manure spills). The plan is updated by one person and everyone else can "sync" with that plan from their own devices. Other aspects of the app do not sync, but include carcass disposal, rainfall records, liquid manure storage levels, and others. Download at: h p://www.extension.org/67608#download
Manure Calculator Contact person: Jill Heemstra, University of Nebraska ‐ Lincoln
About the App: Manure Calculator has three sec ons. 1) calculate the amount of manure spread (calibrate your spreader) 2) calculate the amount of nutrients applied by using either your own manure test or using book values and 3) calculate the economic value of that manure. The app keeps a history of past entries and allows the user to email a single entry or an en re history to themselves for record keeping purposes. The value sec on was based on an exis ng spreadsheet from the University of Nebraska. Download at: h p://www.extension.org/67608#download
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goCrop Developed by: Heather Darby, University of Vermont
About the App: goCropTM is a simple tool that can be used for nutrient management planning on livestock farms. goCropTM uses integrated web and mobile applica ons to pioneer the future of nutrient management. Record per nent soil, crop, and nutrient data from the field using your iOS device. All data is synchronized with our nutrient management web applica on for easy review and management of your farm's data. goCroTM helps keeps farming focused! Download at: h ps://gocrop.com/
Critical Records of Animal Production (C.R.A.P. ) App Developed by: Rhonda Miller, Utah State University
About the App: The Cri cal Records of Animal Produc on (C.R.A.P.) App is an easy way to track manure applica on and incorpora on events, manure transfers, lagoon inspec ons, and other informa on needed to maintain a Nutrient Management Plan (NMP). Records entered on the app can be emailed as a .csv file a achment (Excel format). The C.R.A.P. app is free and is available for iOS and Android. Download at: h p://agwastemanagement.usu.edu/htm/apps
NRCS Sunbury Field Office The Northumberland County NRCS office has had several recent personnel changes. Two new employees have been brought on through the Agriculture Conservation Experienced Services (ACES) Program. Joe Mondell and Dorothy Hvozda started working in the Sunbury NRCS Field Office in January, and are providing assistance to the farm operators of Northumberland County. Dennis DiOrio is serving as the acting District Conservationist for 4 months while a permanent replacement is found. And Pam Richardson continues to serve in her position as a Civil Engineering Technician. The NRCS office has been diligently working to complete several Farm Bill Program contracts. We anticipate to have at least 5 EQIP contracts, with the likely addition of several others as funding becomes available. Additionally, there will be up to 13 new CSP contracts, and the potential for 4 renewal contracts. NRCS accepts applications for Farm Bill programs on a continuous basis, with cut off dates set up by our National Office to allow for ranking of eligible applications. There are a variety of fund codes available for our incentive programs (EQIP and AMA). If you are an operator with a natural resource concern on your operation, contact us and we will help you determine if we can potentially help you. The NRCS office number is 570-286-7114.
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A Streambank Strategy Our local streams have experienced various transformations over the years. Land use changes have increased the amounts of water, nutrient levels, and sediment load flowing through our streams. We also see more gravel bars, vertical streambanks and less vegetative cover throughout the stream corridor. Change can be difficult to accept but also presents an opportunity to educate ourselves to improve a situation. The conservation district has joined efforts with PA Fish and Boat Commission to learn the benefits of installing fish habitat structures for improved stream water quality. These structures serve a dual purpose; they stabilize streambanks and enhance the quantity and quality of fish habitat. There are a variety of structures and project techniques that can be used, depending on the stream challenge that exists at each unique site. The ultimate goal is to reduce erosion and create a variety of habitats for our local aquatic life. Structure types you will see on Northumberland County streams include: Multi-Log Vane Deflectors 20’ log installed to “point” upstream Water falls off log at 90-degree angle Water flow is redirected to center of stream Water’s energy is no longer scouring toe of bank Sediment and debris collect on upstream side of deflector, rebuilding bank A hole is scoured out at tip of deflector, creating useful fish habitat Used mostly in runs and pools areas of a stream
Root Wad Deflectors A mature root ball with at least 8’ of tree stem still attached The stem is buried into stream bank, while root ball acts as a deflector in stream channel Absorb water’s energy Protect stream bank where channel makes a 90-degree turn Used along high/eroding stream banks
Modified Mud Sill Logs run parallel to stream bank Protects the toe of the bank Creates a stable undercut bank, providing overhead cover for fish Installed in lower gradient streams with steep, eroded banks
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Log Cross Vane Structure extends completely across stream channel Centers water flow in stream channel Provides grade control Creates plunge pool fish habitat
Hemlock logs, rip rap, rebar and geotextile fabric are the main components of each structure. Project installation does require an approved GP-1 permit and Erosion and Sedimentation Plan. All structures are seeded and mulched upon completion. Planting shrubs/trees and regrading vertical banks are additional activities that may occur at some project locations. Although we cannot control nature, we can make informed decisions to improve conditions and minimize damage during high flow events. This streambank strategy can protect your property, reduce the amount of sediment entering the stream channel, provide cleaner, cooler water for community use and create clean, diverse habitats for aquatic species. As society forges forward to meet the needs of our ever growing population, let’s take the time to care for our natural resources to ensure a healthy future for our local community and residents living downstream.
PA Agricultural Ombudsman Program The PA Agricultural Ombudsman Program serves state-wide as Manure Management requirements a liaison to communities for conflict management on issues Nutrient Management Act affecting agriculture, land use, environment and planning. Right to Farm The Agricultural Ombudsman Program advocates for the viable Agricultural Communities and Rural Environment (ACRE) future of agriculture. They focus on: zoning and land use planning the impacts to agriculture because of what is contained in fairness to agriculture an ordinance equitable review of required plans, permits or zoning This Program offers educational training for farmers related to: applications allowing time for input from concerned or interested odor management parties in a non-hostile environment proactive education to minimize conflicts and promote mortality composting understanding vegetative buffers good neighbor relations An Ombudsman will offer educational input related to these topics, which should be considered a professional opinion, NOT Manure Management Plan writing a legal opinion. The Ombudsman program is a great tool for farmers, The PA Agricultural Ombudsman Program offers educational neighbors, municipalities, and many other entities. To find out more information and how to access their services, visit their input or programs for municipalities related to: website at www.paagombudsman.com. You may contact us at any time by email or phone to be added to, or removed from, our mailing list. Simply call 570-495-4665 or email info@nccdpa.org. If you would rather “Go Green,” email us with the words “electronic newsletter” in the subject line and we will send our newsletter to you electronically.
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PRE-SORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE
Northumberland County Conservation District 441 Plum Creek Road Sunbury, PA 17801 Phone: (570) 495-4665 Website: www.nccdpa.org
PAID
WILKES-BARRE, PA 18701 PERMIT NO. 243
Directors Northumberland County Conservation District The NCCD, formed in 1943 under the Conservation District Law, is a subdivision of state government and is one of 66 Conservation Districts throughout the state of Pennsylvania. The purpose of the Conservation District is to promote protection, m a i n t e n a n c e , improvement, and wise use of the land, water, and other natural resources.
Dave Crowl: Chairman, Public Leon Wertz: Vice-Chairman, Farmer Richard Shoch: Commissioner Gary Truckenmiller: Farmer John Kopp: Farmer Richard Daniels: Farmer Mike Erdley: PublicÂ
Mike Hubler: Associate Dave Swank: Associate Blair Carbaugh: Associate Albert Mabus: Associate John Pfleegor: Associate Ted Carodiskey, Associate
Staff Judy Becker: District Manager, AgLand Preservation, Editor Shirley Snyder: Administrative Assistant Jaci Harner: Watershed Specialist, Nutrient Management Technician Michael McCleary: Erosion & Sediment Technician, Dirt & Gravel Roads Nathan Brophy: Agricultural Conservation Technician NCCD Board of Directors Upcoming Meetings are at 7:00pm in the NCCD EE Center May 7th, June 4th, July 2nd