Living Delaware Township - Fall 2019

FALL 2019

THE CORNERSTONE OF THE POCONOS

NOTICE: The Township Office will be closed on the following days: Veteran’s Day - Monday, Nov. 11th • Thanksgiving Holiday - Thursday, Nov. 28th & Friday, Nov. 29th

Delaware Township Participates in the 18th Annual Day of Caring The United Way of Pike County held the 18th Annual Day of Caring on Saturday, September 7, 2019 at Delaware Valley High School. The United Way Day of Caring is a day when volunteers join together and travel to local non-profit human service agencies to help clean up, clean out and refresh for the coming months ahead. Even more importantly, friends and neighbors are giving and sharing while carrying on the tradition of giving back to the community.

Delaware Township was fortunate enough to be a participating agency in this year’s event. The Township received fifteen (15) volunteers from Delaware Valley High School. The volunteers painted the bath house, bath house decking, the fence around the playground and the lifeguard shack located at Akenac Park. Vincent Flatt, Road Master, Krista Predmore, Administrator and Lori McCrory, Permit Assistant, worked alongside and supervised the volunteers throughout the day.

Front row (from left): Jackson Melnick, Bridget Danforth, Kelly Volavka, Brooke Acoveno, Gabrielle Lee, Sophia Wood, Morgan Lee, Stephany Borges, Haley Nantista; Back row (from left): Henry Hamill, Nick Barie, Shane Lewis, Thomas Stoughton, Wyatt Magill, Nathan Melnick.

Thank you to the student volunteers (pictured left) for working hard, having fun and accomplishing the tasks assigned at Delaware Township: A special thank you to Good Time Pizza located on SR 739 for donating lunch for the volunteers and this wonderful event. Delaware Township is looking forward to being a participating agency in next year’s event.

IN THIS ISSUE DAILY LIVING Child Abuse Clearances Common Drinking Water Problems and Solutions Online Absentee Ballot Applications School Real Estate Taxes NOAA Increased Chance for Above-Normal Hurricane Season

DAILY LIVING Help Holy Trinity Food Pantry — Page 2

EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT 2 3 4 4 5

Fire Prevention Week Approaches The Importance of a Disaster Preparedness Plan MEETINGS & EVENTS 2019 Bulk Dump Disposal Dates DIG DELAWARE Autumn Gardening Guide

6 7 9 10

LEGISLATURE Board to Study Saturday Deer Opener Laws Authorize Rescue of Children and Animals in Hot Cars

11 11

TOWNSHIPS TODAY PA’s First Farm Bill Invests Millions

12

PARKS & REC Creek Trail Now Open NPS Announces Updated Regulations

14 15

EVENTS

PARKS & REC

Summer Recreation Event Recap — Page 8

Spotting the Spotted Lanternfly — Page 15

Newburgh, NY 12550 PERMIT NO. 335

Like Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/DelawareTownship

PAID

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage

DAILY LIVING Help Holy Trinity Food Pantry Feed Those In Need In Our Community.

The holidays are quickly approaching! Please consider making a food donation today.

Donations can be dropped off Monday through Friday; 9am to 12pm at 103 Delaware Crest Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328. If this does not work with your schedule, call (570) 828-7411. Please see the below shopping list for items needed.

DELAWARE TOWNSHIP 116 Wilson Hill Road Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 Phone: 570-828-2347 HOURS OF OPERATION: Building Inspector: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 8:00 am – 10:00 am Sewage Officer: By appointment only Zoning Officer: Monday, Wednesday, & Friday 8:00 am – 10:00 am Office: Monday through Friday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

FOOD PANTRY ITEMS NEEDED:

Apple Sauce Canned Beef Stew Cereal Chili Coffee / Tea Crackers Egg Noodles Jelly Macaroni & Cheese Oatmeal Pancake Mix Pancake Syrup Peanut Butter Potato Flakes Rice

Spaghetti Soup Tomato Sauce Tuna Vegetables OTHER ITEMS NEEDED:

Laundry Detergent Paper Towels Shampoo Soap Tissues Toilet Paper Toothpaste Toothbrushes

Child Abuse Clearances School employees, coaches, volunteers and others who are required to have child abuse clearances will need to update their 2014 clearances for the new school year.

State law requires clearances to be updated every 5 years.

Find out if you need a child abuse clearance, apply for a clearance, or update your information by going to: https://www.compass.state.pa.us/cwis/public/home

Public Works: Monday through Friday 7:30 am – 3:30 pm Akenac Park: Open daily from dawn to dusk. Closed every Tuesday for maintenance BOARD OF SUPERVISORS: MEETINGS 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 7:00 pm at the Township Municipal Building WORKSHOPS 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 6:00 pm at the Township Municipal Building

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

Common Drinking Water Problems and Solutions Symptoms in Water

Common Causes

Possible Solutions

Grayish white film in sinks, tubs, dishes, reduced suds in laundry, frequent failure of water heater elements, scale in teapots.

Hardness due to calcium and magnesium dissolved from bedrock. There is no drinking standard but a hardness level above about 120 mg/L 1 or 7 grains per gallon is most likely to cause these symptoms.

Ion exchange water softener (exchanges calcium and magnesium for sodium or potassium).

Water which is initially clear but produces brown, orange or reddish stains or sediment, metallic tasting water.

Iron dissolved from bedrock or from nearby disturbance (mining, etc.). Iron above the drinking water standard (SMCL2) of 0.3 mg/L is most likely to cause these symptoms.

Water softener (low to moderate concentrations of iron if recommended by manufacturer) or oxidizing filter for higher concentrations (pH adjustment of water may be necessary). Manganese concentration should also be considered when choosing treatment (see below).

E BOARD OF SUPERVISORS John Henderson Chair - jhenderson@delawaretownshippa.gov Jane Neufeld Vice-Chair | Treasurer jneufeld@delawaretownshippa.gov Rick Koehler Secretary - rkoehler@delawaretownshippa.gov

E ADMINISTRATION Krista Predmore Township Administrator kpredmore@delawaretownshippa.gov

Black specks or black stains, metallic tasting water. Standing water (tub or toilet tank) may appear gray or black.

Manganese dissolved from bedrock or from nearby disturbance (mining, etc.). Manganese above the SMCL of 0.05 mg/L will cause these symptoms.

Salty taste, corrosion of metals.

Chloride dissolved from bedrock or from various local activities (road salt, gas drilling brines, etc.).

Chloride above the SMCL of 250 mg/L is most likely to cause these symptoms.

Reverse osmosis or distillation systems at individual taps. As chloride is very difficult to remove from water, consider developing new source of water.

Orange or opaque gelatinous film Iron bacteria. There is no drinking water standard or strands coating toilet, and for iron bacteria in water but any presence of these sinks, musty odor. Oily film on bacteria can cause these symptoms. water surface (see also page 2).

Shock chlorination of well, continuous down-well chlorination using pellet droppers in severe cases. Follow-up with multi-level media unit. Carbon filtration may be needed to reduce chlorine.

E ROAD & MAINTENANCE DEPT.

Dissolved gases in water (methane, ethane, carbon dioxide) from natural sources or from mining/gas drilling. There are no standards for these gases.

Methane concentrations above 28 mg/L are most likely to cause these symptoms.

Continue routine testing if concentrations is below 7 mg/L. Install vented well cap above about 7 mg/L and aeration system for higher concentrations (above about 28 mg/L).

Michael Moffa mmoffa@delawaretownshippa.gov

Hydrogen sulfide, sulfides, sulfate reducing bacteria in groundwater. There is no standard but any amount can cause these symptoms. NOTE: odor at one sink may be caused by bacteria in drain rather than water (disinfect drain to remove odor).

Shock chlorination of well (in some cases), oxidizing filter, continuous chlorination and filtration. Activated carbon filtration may be used for less severe cases.

Chris Kimble dtbos@ptd.net

Gurgling or bubbling noise in well, spurting faucets, white gas bubbles in water.

Rotten egg odor in cold and hot water, black greasy stains.

Rotten egg odor in hot water only.

Water softener (low concentrations of manganese if recommended by manufacturer), oxidizing filter for higher concentrations (pH adjustment of water may be necessary to optimize removal).

Hydrogen sulfide generated by a chemical reaction Remove and omit rod or replace with with anti-corrosion magnesium rod (often called the alternate metal rod (caution: removing “anode rod�) in hot water heater. rod may void the heater warranty).

1

Sharon Franks Administrative Assistant | Permits sharonf@delawaretownshippa.gov Robin Jones H.R. | Administrative Asst. rjones@delawaretownshippa.gov Lori McCrory Permit Assistant lmccrory@delawaretownshippa.gov

Vincent Flatt | Road Master vflatt@delawaretownshippa.gov

John Olivieri dtbos@ptd.net Shane Williams dtbos@ptd.net

E BOARDS & SECRETARIES Planning Commission Sharon Franks, Secretary Zoning Hearing Board Lori McCrory, Secretary Auditors Dennis Lee - dennisleedtauditor@gmail.com

E ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS Building Inspector SFM Consulting - smcglynn@sfmconsultingllc.org Zoning Officer SFM Consulting - smcglynn@sfmconsultingllc.org Sewage Officer Ron Tussel - ecc@masthope.org

Call Us At

845-456-1218 and ask about our special Advertising Rates!

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

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Online Absentee Ballot Applications

Discover the Power of Choice No matter what your addictive behavior, SMART Recovery can help. For over two decades we have been offering free support groups to help people learn self-empowering tools and provide support for others in recovery. The goal of SMART Recovery is to assist you in achieving a healthy, positive, and balanced lifestyle.

Skills and tools taught in SMART can be used as part of your overall & personal recovery process.

Join a SMART Recovery Group in Pike County today!

Tuesday’s: 6:30-7:30 pm St. Patrick’s Church Office 111 E. High St. Milford, PA

Wednesday’s: 12-1 pm Milford Community House 201 Broad St. Milford, PA

Wednesday’s: 6:30-7:30pm

Delaware Township Emergency Operations Center 116 Wilson Hill Rd. Dingmans Ferry, PA Follow us on Facebook for news & updates!

SMART Recovery Pike PA

How the 2020 Census will invite everyone to respond Every household will have the option of responding online, by mail, or by phone.

Nearly every household will receive an invitation to participate in the 2020 Census from either a postal worker or a census worker.

95% of households will receive their census invitation in the mail.

Starting with this year’s General Election, voters who need to vote by absentee ballot may apply for the ballot online.

will receive their census invitation when a census taker drops it off.

In these areas, the majority of households may not receive mail at their home’s physical location (like households that use PO boxes or areas recently affected by natural disasters).

Less than 1% of households

will be counted in person by a census taker, instead of being invited to respond on their own. We do this in very remote areas like parts of northern Maine, remote Alaska, and in select American Indian areas that ask to be counted in person.

Note: We have special procedures to count people who don’t live in households, such as students living in university housing or people experiencing homelessness.

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State Auditor General’s Tipline

1-800-922-8477

Cancer Hotline

1-800-422-6237

Child Abuse Hotline

1-800-932-0313

Consumer Protection Bureau

1-800-441-2555

DEP

1-800-541-2050

Elder Abuse Hotline

1-800-490-8505

Ethics Commission

1-800-932-0936

Health Line

1-800-724-3258

When an applicant completes the online form, the information is forwarded directly to the appropriate county elections office for processing.

Inspector General

1-800-932-0935

Insurance

1-877-881-6388

LIHEAP

1-800-692-7462

LCB

1-800-932-0602

The applicant will then be provided with a ballot that must be completed and either mailed or hand-delivered to the appropriate county election office by the deadline, which is 5 p.m. on the Friday before the election, or Nov. 1 this year.

Military and Veterans Affairs

1-800-645-8924

Mortgage Assistance

1-800-342-2397

PACE/PACENET

1-800-225-7223

PennDOT – Motor Vehicles

1-800-932-4600

PennDOT – Potholes

1-800-349-7623

PennDOT – Roadway and Weather Conditions

1-800-331-3414

PHEAA

1-800-682-7392

Property Tax/Rent Rebate

1-800-222-9190

PUC

1-800-692-7380

Revenue

1-800-728-2937

State

1-888-659-9962

Turnpike Commission

1-800-331-3414

Unemployment Compensation

1-888-334-4046

Welfare Assistance

1-800-692-7462

Welfare Fraud

1-800-932-0582

Worker’s Compensation

1-800-428-2383

The mobile-friendly, online application site, available at votesPA.com/ApplyAbsentee, will go live on Monday, Sept. 16, the first day that registered voters may apply for absentee ballots for the Nov. 5 election.

The online application system will be accessible for all domestic Pennsylvania voters this year and to military and overseas voters by 2020.

Absentee ballots may be cast by individuals with illnesses or disabilities, individuals who will be away from their municipality on business on Election Day, and Pennsylvania students attending out-of-state colleges or universities, among others.

School Real Estate Taxes

Almost 5% of households

Toll Free Numbers

School Real Estate Taxes for the Delaware Valley School District were mailed on August 1, 2019.

In person collection will take place on the following dates at the Delaware Township Municipal Building located at 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 between the hours of 10am – 2pm: Thursday, October 31, 2019 and Saturday, November 30, 2019.

Please mark your calendars.

If you have any questions, please contact Mary Lou Corbett at (570) 828-2225.

Federal Senator Bob Casey

1-866-802-2833

Senator Pat Toomey

1-855-552-1831

Congressman Lou Barletta

1-855-241-5144

Congressman Tom Marino

1-202-225-3731

IRS

1-800-382-1274

Medicare

1-800-829-1040

Social Security

1-800-772-1213

TO ADVERTISE CALL 845-456-1218 LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

NOAA Increased Chance For Above-Normal Hurricane Season NOAA forecasters monitoring oceanic and atmospheric patterns say conditions are now more favorable for abovenormal hurricane activity since El Nino has now ended. Two named storms have formed so far this year and the peak months of the hurricane season, August through October, are now underway.

“NOAA will continue to deliver the information that the public depends on before, during and after any storms throughout the hurricane season,” said Neil Jacobs, Ph.D., acting NOAA administrator. “Armed with our next-generation satellites, sophisticated weather models, hurricane hunter aircraft, and the expertise of our forecasters, we are prepared to keep communities informed to help save lives and livelihoods.”

Seasonal forecasters with NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center have increased the likelihood of an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season to 45% (up from 30% from the outlook issued in May). The likelihood of near-normal activity is now at 35%, and the chance of below-normal activity has dropped to 20%.

DTVFC 9/11 Tribute

The number of predicted storms is also greater with NOAA now expecting 10-17 named storms (winds of 39 mph or greater), of which 5-9 will become hurricanes (winds of 74 mph or greater), including 2-4 major hurricanes (winds of 111 mph or greater). This updated outlook is for the entire six-month hurricane season, which ends Nov. 30.

NOAA is also announcing today that the current El Nino in the Pacific Ocean has ended and neutral conditions have returned.

“El Nino typically suppresses Atlantic hurricane activity but now that it’s gone, we could see a busier season ahead,” said Gerry Bell, Ph.D., lead seasonal hurricane forecaster at NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. “This evolution, combined with the more conducive conditions associated with the ongoing highactivity era for Atlantic hurricanes that began in 1995, increases the likelihood of above-normal activity this year.”

On average, the Atlantic hurricane season produces 12 named storms, of which six become hurricanes, including three major hurricanes. NOAA’s hurricane season outlook is for overall seasonal activity and is not a landfall forecast. Landfalls are largely determined by short-term weather patterns, which are only predictable within about a week of a storm potentially reaching a coastline.

“Today’s updated outlook is a reminder to be prepared,” said Pete Gaynor, acting FEMA administrator. “We urge everyone to learn more about hurricane hazards and prepare now, ahead of time, so that if state and local authorities announce evacuations in advance of a storm, you and your family will have planned where to go and what to do to stay safe.”

This week, the FEMA Ready Campaign and its federal partners released videos that show the deadly threat from tropical weather, specifically hurricane storm surge and flooding, to help emphasize the importance of following the instructions of state and local authorities in advance of a storm. The 15, 30 and 60-second video clips are available for broadcast or social media distribution and complement additional storm surge resources from NOAA. NOAA encourages residents in communities that can be impacted by land falling hurricanes to ensure their preparedness measures are in place now to become a more Weather-Ready Nation. Stay tuned to the National Hurricane Center for the latest about tropical storm and hurricane activity in the Atlantic.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

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EMERGENCY MGMT. TELL THEM YOU SAW IT HERE!

Shop Local SUPPORT OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES

As Fire Prevention Week™ Approaches, Delaware Township Volunteer Fire Company Reminds Residents:

Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!™

The Delaware Township Volunteer Fire Company is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®)—the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years—to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!” The campaign works to educate everyone about the small but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.

NFPA statistics show that in 2017 U.S. fire departments responded to 357,000 home structure fires. These fires caused 2,630 fire deaths and 10,600 fire injuries. On average, seven people died in a fire in a home per day during 2012 to 2016.

“These numbers show that home fires continue to pose a significant threat to safety,” said Lorraine Carli, NFPA’s vice president of Outreach and Advocacy. “In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Escape planning and practice can help you make the most of the time you have, giving everyone enough time to get out.

While NFPA and the Delaware Township Volunteer Fire Company are focusing on home fires, these messages apply to virtually any location.

“Situational awareness is a skill people need to use wherever they go,” said Shaun Hughes, DTVFC Chief. “No matter where you are, look for available exits. If the alarm system sounds, take it seriously and exit the building immediately.”

DYE HARD SALON

For more general information about Fire Prevention Week and home escape planning, visit www.fpw.org.

594 ROUTE 6 & 209 · MILFORD, PA 18337

570.296.0613

Closed Sunday & Monday

HOURS

TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

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· 10-7 · 10-5 · 10-7 · 10-8 · 9-2

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

The Importance of a Disaster Preparedness Plan By being prepared with a well-thought-out disaster plan for different types of disasters, you can potentially save your pet’s life in case of emergency. Some general tips for planning:

Pike County Fire Depts.

Make sure your pet wears at least two forms of current identification. You may want to consider a microchip implant or tattoo, combined with an identification tag on a collar. Also, keep the information current if you have registered with any lost and found databases.

Lackawaxen Twp. Volunteer Ambulance Service (Dept. 21) 109 PA Rt. 590, Greeley, PA 570-685-4022

Be sure to place permanent, waterproof “Pets Inside” stickers on your front and back windows to alert emergency workers that pets are in your home. If possible, list the number and types of animals in your household. Should you be unable to go home to retrieve your pets during a disaster, this sticker could help rescue workers find your pets in your home.

Greeley Fire Department (Dept. 23) 245 PA Rt. 590, Greeley, PA 570-685-7537

Before the Disaster

Find a veterinarian in your area before you have an emergency.

Develop an evacuation plan for your family and include your pets in this plan. Identify relatives, friends, or hotels which will accept your pets. Make plans to shelter livestock and horses in place in a safe area if you cannot evacuate them.

Start a buddy system with a neighbor. Ask him/her to check on your pet during a disaster if you are not home. Agree to do the same for your neighbor. Exchange information on veterinarians.

Check to make sure your pet’s vaccinations are up to date. Keep an extra copy of your pet’s health information in your pet disaster/ emergency kit. Have a list and schedule of needed medications and several days’ worth of medications available.

Assemble a disaster kit. See recommended pet first aid kit list and pet emergency survival kit.

During the Disaster

Bring pets indoor well in advance of a storm. Reassure them and remain calm.

In the event of an evacuation, include pets in your evacuation plans. Never leave pets behind.

Livestock and horses should be included in your plans or plans should be implemented to shelter them in place in a safe area.

In the event of an evacuation, temporary animal shelters may be in operation. Animals brought to a pet shelter should have proper identification, including a microchip, tattoo, and/or collar ID tag and proof of current rabies vaccination. All items with the animal, including carrier, leash, food, bowls, list of health issues or special needs, medications, and any special instructions should also be identified with the animal and owner names.

Pet shelters will be filled on first come, first served basis. Call ahead for availability.

After the Disaster

After you return home, keep your pets on a leash until they become re-oriented to their home. Often familiar scents and landmarks may be altered and pets could easily be confused and become lost. Also, downed power lines, reptiles brought in with high water, and debris can all pose a threat for animals after a disaster. Water may not be safe for drinking.

If pets cannot be found after a disaster, contact the local animal control office to find out where lost animals can be recovered. Bring along a picture of your pet if possible. After a disaster, animals can become frightened and act aggressive or defensive - monitor their behavior closely and try to keep them on their normal schedules to reduce stress.

Prepare for Emergencies Now: Information to Get Ready

Bushkill Fire Company (Dept. 24) 124 Evergreen Dr., Lehman, PA - 570-588-6033 Blooming Grove Fire Dept.

(Dept. 25) 484 PA Rt. 739, Hawley, PA 570-775-7355 Dingman Twp. Fire Dept.

(Dept. 26) 680 Log Tavern Rd., Milford, PA - 570-686-3696 Central Fire Dept. (Dept. 27) 574 Westcolang Rd., Hawley, PA 570-685-7344 Delaware Twp. Fire Co. (Dept. 28) 131 Wilson Hill Rd., Dingmans Ferry, PA - 570-828-2223 Delaware Twp. Ambulance Corp. (Dept. 28) 135 Park Rd., Dingmans Ferry, PA - 570-828-2345 Hemlock Farms Fire & Rescue (Dept. 29) 1053 Hemlock Farms, Lords Valley, PA - 570-775-6447 Lackawaxen Fire Dept.

(Dept. 31) 116 Township Rd., Lackawaxen, PA 570-685-7330 Matamoras Borough Fire Dept. (Dept. 32) 506 Avenue Q, Matamoras, PA - 570-491-4154 Milford Fire Dept. (Dept. 33) 107 W. Catharine St., Milford, PA - 570-296-6121 Mill Rift Fire Dept. (Dept. 34) 139 Bluestone Blvd., Mill Rift, PA 570-491-4850

http://www.ready.gov

This common sense framework is designed to launch a process of learning about citizen preparedness. For the most current information and recommendations, go online to www.ready.gov.

Distributed in partnership with:

Federal Emergency Management Agency U.S. Department of Homeland Security Washington, D.C. 20472

Promised Land Fire & Ambulance (Dept. 35) RR 390, Greentown, PA 570-676-3818 Tafton Fire Co. (Dept. 37) 235 PA Rt. 507, Hawley, PA 570-226-4273 Westfall Fire Dept. (Dept. 39) 101 Mtn. Ave., Matamoras, PA 570-491-4717 Shohola Fire Dept. (Dept. 41) 325 PA Rt. 434, Shohola, PA 570-559-7525 Forest Fire Dept. (Dept. 81) 1129 Towpath Rd., Hawley, PA 570-226-5022

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

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EVENTS Summer Recreation Event Recap Delaware Township held two Music in Akenac Park this summer. On July 6th, the classic rock band Dory U and the Runaway Train performed inside the recreation hall while Dingmans Ferry Lions Club served hamburgers and hotdogs outdoors. The rain and excessive heat did not stop the crowd from dancing and enjoying the music.

On Sunday, August 25th, The Representatives played Christian contemporary music outdoors in Akenac Park. The weather was perfect to sit and enjoy the music or play in the park.

On July 27th, Delaware Townships Movie Night featured The Rocky Horror Picture Show while Delaware Townships Volunteer Ambulance Corps sold snacks and refreshments. Delaware Township typically shows films that are family orientated but this year wanted to present a film that adults my enjoy.

Goonies was the featured film on August 10th while Delaware Township Volunteer Fire Department provided free popcorn.

For more information on events in Delaware Township please visit www. facebook.com/recreation18328 or email delawaretownshiprecboard@gmail.com

Delaware Townships Annual

Trunk or Treat October 26, 2019 RAIN DATE 10/27/19

2:00 pm – 4:00 pm Akenac Park 108 Abbey Lane Dingmans Ferry PA

Trunks Needed!

If you would you like to bring your trunk filled with goodies Please email or Facebook. delawaretownshiprecboard@gmail.com WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/RECREATION18328 *Decorated Trunks Are Fun But Not Mandatory*

DELAWARE TOWNSHIPS ANNUAL

CHRISTMAS EVENT SATURDAY DEC. 14TH

4:00PM – 8:00PM AKENAC PARK 108 ABBEY LANE DINGMANS FERRY VISIT WITH SANTA MAKE CHILDRENS CRAFTS ENJOY HOT COCOA & COOKIE BONFIRE DINGMANS FERRY CHILDRENS CHOIR For more information regarding this event or other Delaware Township events, please visit Facebook at www.facebook.com/recreation18328 or email delawaretownshiprecboard@gmail.com

Delaware Township Vol. Ambulance Corps

ANNUAL HOLIDAY WREATH & BAKE SALE Ambulance Building 135 Park Road Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328

Friday, December 6th th

Saturday, December 7

2 pm – 7 pm 10 am - 4 pm

While supplies last.

For more information contact us at (570) 828-2345 or email info@dtvac.org

Beautifully Decorated Wreaths for Only $15.00

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

IMPORTANT CONTACTS FOR SENIORS From the Pike County Area Agency on Aging MEDICARE PLANS AVAILABLE www.medicare.gov Call APPRISE at 800-783-7067 Call Medicare at 800-633-4227 or 877-486-248 (TTY) Or call us at 570-775-5550 for appt. to assist you.

PIKE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION Hours 7:30am-4:00pm 570-296-3408 or 866-681-4947 DO NOT CALL REGISTRY If you want to stop those nagging calls from solicitors you can place your phone number on the Do Not Call registry by calling 888-382-1222 or go online to www.donotcall.gov SENIOR LAW CENTER Senior Law Center protects the legal rights & interests of seniors in PA through legal services, referral services and advocacy. Call their helpline at 877-727-7529 PIKE COUNTY AREA AGENCY ON AGING Blooming Grove - 570-775-5550 Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm Dingmans Center - 570-828-7812 Hours: Tues & Fri 9am-3pm Lackawaxen/Shohola 570-685-7808 Hours: Mon, Wed, Thurs 9am-2pm Milford - 570-832-1929 Hours: Wed & Fri 1am-3pm

2019 Bulk Dump Disposal Dates The Delaware Township Bulk Disposal will be open the first and third Saturday of each month from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. during the Spring, Summer and Fall. Bulk will only be available one Saturday per month during the winter months.

November 2, 2019 & December 7, 2019

NOTICE The Delaware Township Board of Supervisors have canceled meetings scheduled for November 13, 2019 and November 27, 2019 and will instead hold workshops and regular meetings on Wednesday, November 6, 2019 and Wednesday, November 20, 2019 at the Delaware Township Municipal Building, 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328. Workshops will begin at 6:00 p.m. and regular meetings at 7:00 p.m.

DELAWARE TOWNSHIP BOARD OF SUPERVISORS Krista Predmore - Township Administrator

PUBLIC NOTICE NOTICE is hereby given that the Delaware Township Board of Supervisors will hold workshops to discuss the FY 2020 budget on Wednesday, September 18, 2019, Wednesday, October 2, 2019 and Wednesday, October 30, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. at the Delaware Township Municipal Building, 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry PA 18328. The public is invited to participate.

Thank you.

Krista Predmore, Township Administrator Thomas Farley, Township Solicitor

Board of Supervisors Meetings Notice is hereby given that the meetings for the Delaware Township Board of Supervisors for 2019 will be on the second (2nd) and fourth (4th) Wednesday of each month on the following dates: January 9th and 23rd, February 13th and 27th, March 13th and 27th, April 10th and 24th, May 8th and 22nd, June 12th and 26th, July 10th and 24th, August 14th and 28th, September 11th and 25th, October 9th and 23rd, November 13th and 27th, December 11th.

All meetings to be held at the Delaware Township Municipal Building(s), located at 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328. Workshops will begin at 6 p.m. and regular meetings at 7 p.m.

Planning Commission Meetings: The Delaware Township Planning Commission will hold regularly scheduled meetings on the first (1st) and third (3rd) Tuesdays of each month at 6:30 p.m.; with the fourth (4th) Tuesday as a workshop on an as needed basis.

These meetings will be held at the Delaware Township Municipal Building, located at 116 Wilson Hill Road, Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

PAGE 9

DIG DELAWARE Autumn Gardening Guide Don’t let the chill in the air and the fading summer flowers curtail your gardening just yet. According to the Penn State Extension, trees, shrubs, and hardy perennials should be planted at least six weeks before the first frost allowing the root system to establish itself in the new soil.

When cool fall temperatures arrive, planting hyacinth, narcissus, and tulip bulbs will brighten your landscape next spring. Planting should occur during cool autumn temperatures but before the first hard frost.

Warm-season vegetable growers are encouraged to improve soil quality by growing grain or legumes as cover crops during the offseason. Cover crops help with erosion, soil compaction, and organic soil enrichment.

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

LEGISLATURE Board To Study Saturday Deer Opener Ahead Of 2020 Decision HARRISBURG, PA - Members of the Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners met last week with state House of Representatives Game and Fisheries Committee Majority Chairman Keith Gillespie (R-York) and Minority Chairman Bill Kortz (D-Allegheny) to discuss the Saturday opener to Pennsylvania’s firearms deer season, which the board adopted earlier this month when it set seasons and bag limits for the 2019-20 license year.

Since 1963, Pennsylvania’s firearms deer season consistently has opened the Monday after Thanksgiving, and hunters clearly were split in their support of the change to a Saturday opener.

Some who have been unable to hunt on opening day due to work or school commitments strongly supported the change. Some who travel considerable distances to their hunting spots, and now must do so earlier in the holiday weekend, strongly opposed it.

Hunter concerns over moving to a Saturday opener prompted Gillespie and Kortz to meet this week with Tim Layton, the president of the Board of Game Commissioners, and some other board members.

While the 2019 deer season will open on Saturday, Nov. 30, Layton assured the committee chairmen the Board of Commissioners in the coming year will be looking very closely at the potential benefits and drawbacks of a Saturday opener. The commissioners will be looking to see if there’s evidence the Saturday opener increased hunting license sales and hunter success, and looking to gauge the opinions of hunters who will have taken part in the state’s first Saturday opener in decades.

Layton also said that when the Board of Commissioners selects an opening day for the 2020 firearms deer season, it will take all of these findings into consideration to arrive at a decision that clearly provides the most benefit.

Laws Authorize Rescue of Children and Animals in Hot Cars Act 5 of 2019 went into effect in Pennsylvania to protect good Samaritans who rescue children in hot cars. The law protects a person from liability related to damaging a car or its contents if they believe a child is in imminent danger of suffering harm if not immediately removed from the vehicle. The person must make a reasonable effort to locate the vehicle’s owner, use no more force than is necessary to enter the vehicle, and remain at the scene until emergency responders arrive.

Parents or caregivers who leave a child in a hot car may face serious charges, including Endangering the Welfare of Children.

This is also the first summer since Pennsylvania’s Animals in Distress law was enacted.

Act 104 of 2018 authorizes public safety professionals to remove dogs and cats from unattended motor vehicles if there’s imminent danger from heat, cold or other causes.

Reasonable steps must be taken to locate the driver of the vehicle.

“Acting in the interest of the state’s hunters and the future of hunting in Pennsylvania, always are important components to decisions by the Board of Game Commissioners,” Layton said.

“The board gave these factors careful consideration before voting to move the opening day of the firearms deer season to Saturday, and in the coming year, we’ll be drilling even deeper to make sure we understand what the majority of hunters want.”

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

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Pennsylvania’s First Farm Bill Invests Millions to Address Challenges Facing the Ag Industry Pennsylvania’s first-ever farm bill will invest $23.1 million to help farmers better cope with the challenges threatening their livelihoods while creating opportunities for future generations.

“The [bill] is bold, aggressive, and necessary to protect our farming heritage,” Gov. Tom Wolf said at the recent bill signing, adding that these “historic investments…will improve the lives of all residents for years to come and create a pathway for a dynamic and prosperous farming economy in Pennsylvania.”

“In my 20 years of public service,” Ag Secretary Russell Redding said, “this is the largest investment I’ve ever seen made in Pennsylvania agriculture.”

Pennsylvania’s farms not only provide food, clothing, and other goods for people around the world, but they’re also important to the economic vitality of townships of all sizes and all regions, urban, suburban, and rural.

Wolf has described the agricultural industry as “the backbone of Pennsylvania’s economy.”

“You don’t have to drive too far in Pennsylvania to come across a farm,” said David M. Sanko, executive director of the Pennsylvania State Association of Township Supervisors. “Agriculture is a significant part of the commonwealth’s landscape and culture while employing thousands of township residents.

“The farm bill,” he added, “preserves and strengthens a generational industry that is a key part of the fabric that makes Pennsylvania a great place to live, work, and raise a family.”

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Support for young farmers A major hurdle facing the industry, however, is that the average age of farmers is increasing.

“Pennsylvania’s farming population is getting older, and serious conversations are taking place about where the next generation will come from,” Pa. Farm Bureau President Rick Ebert said. “Making access to farmland more affordable for younger farmers can help remove obstacles facing the next generation on the farm.”

Under the farm bill, landowners who rent or sell to young farmers will be eligible for a tax credit.

“The lack of affordable farmland to rent or buy is often listed as the number one reason why young people do not pursue careers in farming,” Ebert said.

“We are hopeful that this new tax credit program will create more opportunities for Pennsylvania agriculture and inspire the next generation of farmers in the state.”

The new farm bill will also: u Develop new resources for agriculture business development and succession planning.

• Two million dollars will be invested to create the Agriculture Business Development Center, which will provide business planning, marketing, diversification, and transition planning services to farmers.

A major hurdle facing the industry, however, is that the average age of farmers is increasing. Under Pennsylvania’s f irst-ever farm bill, landowners who rent or sell to young farmers will be eligible for a tax credit.

• Landowners who transfer preserved farmland to a qualified beginning farmer will be exempt from the realty transfer tax. u Increase opportunities for Pennsylvania’s agricultural workforce.

• With $500,000 in seed money from the farm bill, the state will create the Pa. Farm-to-School Grant Program, which will increase nutrition and agriculture education for pre-kindergarten through fifth grade students.

• Another $500,000 has been set aside to reestablish the Agriculture and Youth Development

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

Grant Program, which provides workforce initiatives for organizations such as FFA and 4-H. u Remove regulatory burdens and strengthen the state’s agricultural business climate.

• The Agriculture Linked Investment Program will receive $500,000 to provide low-interest loans for conservation practices.

• The state has also allocated $2.5 million to the Conservation Excellence Grant Program, which will fund best-management practices in priority areas of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. u Increase market opportunities and expand the organic farming sector.

• The state is providing $1.6 million to support the Pa. Preferred Program and create the Pa. Preferred Organic Initiative. An additional $1 million will be given to Pa. Preferred to increase enrollment in the Homegrown by Heroes Program, which supports products grown by veterans.

“The lack of affordable farmland to rent or buy is often listed as the number one reason why young people do not pursue careers in farming.

We are hopeful that this new tax credit program will create more opportunities ... and inspire the next generation of farmers.”

• The new Specialty Crop Block Grant Program will receive $500,000 to invest in hardwoods, hemp, hops, and other priority crops. u Protect agriculture infrastructure.

• Under the farm bill, $4 million has been set aside to create the Pennsylvania Rapid Response Disaster Readiness Account, which will provide a quick response to agricultural disasters. This funding will also help continue the fight against the spotted lanternfly, an invasive insect that poses a significant threat to Pennsylvania agriculture.

State budget sets aside more money for farming In addition to the farm bill, the recently passed 2019-2020 state budget includes additional funding to support agriculture.

State lawmakers approved at least $7 million for such initiatives as the Agricultural Business and Workforce Investment Program, the Animal Health and Diagnostic Commission, and the Livestock and Consumer Health Protection Program.

Research and cooperative extension programs also received funding increases.

“We believe the heavy focus on agriculture this year is a recognition by the General Assembly and the governor that a prosperous farming community is essential to the economic health of rural communities and the state’s economy,” Ebert said. “The new programs and increased funding for other programs come at a time when many farmers have struggled to stay in business after five consecutive years of depressed prices.”

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PARKS & REC AKENAC PARK IS OFFICIALLY CLOSED FOR SWIMMING AS OF SEPTEMBER 2nd! YOU CAN STILL ENJOY FISHING AND HIKING DURING THE FALL SEASON!

Lower Hornbecks Creek Trail Now Open After a two-year closure and a lot of hard work, National Park Service officials are happy to announce that the popular Lower Hornbecks Creek Trail opened to the public on September 17, 2019. The mile-long trail to the lower waterfall can be accessed off of US Route 209 between mile markers 10 and 11. The remainder of the trail, also known as the Indian Ladders trail, remains closed while crews build a new path that connects with the trails at Pocono Environmental

Education Center (PEEC).

When completed, the new trail, complete with views of the upper waterfall, will be accessible from PEEC. The original trail, which has been there for over a century, was located in the creek’s floodplain and flooded frequently. Trail crews were in the process of re-routing the trail to higher ground to make it more sustainable in the face of more frequent and more intense storms when the winter storms of March 2018 struck the area and caused substantial and widespread damages across the region.

Due to a partial collapse of the streambank along Hornbecks Creek, plans had to be reevaluated and changed and the project took longer than anticipated to complete.

According to trail crew supervisor Mark Dalton, “the Lower Hornbecks Creek trail serves as a model for sustainable trail development and maintenance, especially considering its location along a creek. The work we did here will allow visitors to view one of the area’s premier waterfalls while enjoying the rich natural and cultural

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Work at Lower Hornbecks was completed by the park’s in-house trail crew, volunteer trail stewards, and by Tahawus Trails LLC. Additional assistance was provided by American Conservation Experience (ACE) youth crew volunteers. ACE is a nonprofit organization dedicated The trail now includes the to providing rewarding following improvements: environmental service • Approximately 900’ of trail opportunities that harness the idealism and energy of a was re-routed to higher ground and another 500’ of volunteer labor force to help restore America’s public lands. trail was resurfaced.

The project is intended to reduce long-term operational • A 15-step staircase was and maintenance costs by built from native stonecorrecting long-standing some weighing as much as 600 pounds- in an area deficiencies, reducing the risk of future storm damages where the stream had related to high water and eroded a steep bank. flooding, and improving the • New drainage systems overall sustainability of the were installed to divert trail. water and protect the trail Your Fee Dollars at Work: This from erosion. $495,986 project was funded • Two new bridges were through the Federal Lands built from locally sourced Recreation Enhancement Act’s lumber and were installed Recreation Fee Nationwide higher above the water 20% program which funds level to better protect them deferred maintenance projects from flood damage. that have a direct benefit to • Other features of the new visitors. Parks that collect entrance fees keep 80% of the trail include the addition revenue collected in that park; of turnpikes- areas where the other 20% is available the trail is elevated above to other parks, through a the floodplain or wet areas; competitive process, for bog bridges- which allow appropriate projects. hikers to pass over short muddy spots; and water About the National Park bars- diagonal channels Service: More than 20,000 across the trail that divert National Park Service surface water away from employees care for America’s the trail.

419 national parks and work with communities across These features, and the new the nation to help preserve route, will help ensure that local history and create this trail remains a popular closeto-home recreational destination for hikers and opportunities. Learn more at waterfall-lovers for many years www.nps.gov. to come. history of the area.” Dalton recommends that visitors check out the trail now, while the weather is good, and again in the spring when the waterfall will be at its best.

“The waterfall may just be a trickle right now, but the trail is a destination on its own.”

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

NPS Announces Updated Regulations BUSHKILL, PA- Where can I go camping? Where can I park my car for an overnight backpacking trip? Am I allowed to have a campfire? Which park trails allow bicycles? Where can I go with my dog?

All of these questions, and more, are answered in the recently updated Superintendent’s Compendium of Designations, Closures, Permit Requirements, and Other Restrictions for Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

“Very little has changed from the previous version of the Compendium; however, the format of the document is slightly different than what people are accustomed to seeing,” said Chief Ranger Eric Lisnik. “It’s a good place to start when planning a trip to the park,” he added. “Knowing what is allowed and where you can go to do certain activities is an important part of planning a safe and fun national park visit.”

The Superintendent's Compendium addresses park-specific issues and regulations at the local level using federal authority granted to superintendents in Title 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Parts 1 through 7. The CFR is a codification of the general and permanent rules published in the Federal Register by the executive departments and agencies of the federal government, including the National Park Service. The CFR is available electronically at www.ecfr.gov.

Under 36 CFR 1.7(b), superintendents are required to “compile in writing all the designations, closures, permit requirements, and other restrictions imposed under discretionary authority. This compilation shall be updated annually and made available to the public upon request." The Superintendent’s Compendium for Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area is available on the park website and can be found at: https://www.nps.gov/dewa/learn/management/compendium.htm.

Spotting the Spotted Lanternfly Pennsylvanians are encouraged to report sightings of the invasive Spotted Lanternfly which presents a significant threat to the state’s agriculture sector, including the grape, tree-fruit, hardwood and nursery industries, which collectively are worth nearly $18 billion to the state’s economy. The pest has prompted a quarantine on plants in 14 counties including Monroe, Schuylkill and Carbon.

If you see a Spotted Lanterfly, immediately report it online or by calling 1-888-4BADFLY. The state Department of Agriculture encourages you to also immediately kill the bugs, which lay egg masses with 30-50 eggs, to help stop them from spreading.

Find out more here: https:// extension. psu.edu/ spottedlanternfly Spotted Lanternfly Life Cycle

For more information on Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area call Park Headquarters at (570) 426-2452, Monday through Friday, except federal holidays, from 8:30 am until 4:30 pm; visit our website at www.nps.gov/dewa; or follow us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/DelWaterGapNPS.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2019

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