Living Delaware Township - Fall 2020

FALL 2020

THE CORNERSTONE OF THE POCONOS

NOTICE: The Township Office will be closed on the following days: Columbus Day: October 12th • Veteran’s Day: November 11th • Thanksgiving: November 26th & 27th

Everyday Heroes In no other time in recent history has Delaware Township experienced anything like the COVID pandemic; but as in many other crises, our township has those “everyday heroes” who step up to the plate to help their neighbors. Delaware Township would like to recognize Robin Jones, Administrative Assistant/Human Resources Assistant as an everyday hero. Robin continued to serve the residents of Delaware Township through her roles in the Township Office and as the Public Information Officer for Emergency Management as the COVID-19 pandemic played out, but also set out to serve the community through making much needed masks. To date, she has made over 2,000 masks with the help of her two daughters and her mom. They have donated over 50% of them to organizations in need including Delaware Township Volunteer Fire Company and our own Delaware Township Public Works Department. We are certainly proud to have Robin as part of our office staff.

Pictured: Robin Jones, Admin/HR Assistant for Delaware Township, Pike County.

IN THIS ISSUE DAILY LIVING Dingmans Ferry Theatre Coming Soon Agriculture Dept. Warns of Seeds Received by Mail Election News School Real Estate Taxes United Way of Pike County Allocation Applications Open 2020 Census Assistance Requested

DAILY LIVING Historical Society Museum Opening — Page 3

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EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT Enduring Principles Address Markers Help Responders Locate Emergencies Toll Free Numbers Pike County Fire Departments FirstEnergy Encourages Pennsylvanians to Arrange Payment Plans

EVENTS 2020 Bulk Dump Disposal Days — Page 9

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MEETINGS & EVENTS 2020 Bulk Dump Disposal Days Board of Supervisors Meetings Planning Commission Meetings PARKS & REC Spotted Lanternfly Management Park Regulations Updated To Curb Litter and Protect Wildlife

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DIG DELAWARE Ruby-Throated Hummingbirds — Page 10

Newburgh, NY 12550 PERMIT NO. 335

Like Us on Facebook www.facebook.com/DelawareTownship

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DAILY LIVING The Dingmans Ferry Theatre: Coming Soon!

By Michelle Markey

The Dingmans Ferry Theatre is an upcoming, cozy community theatre nestled in the woods of the Poconos Mountains. The Theatre was converted from an old cabin as part of Camp Akenac, also known as Akenac Park off Route 739 in Dingmans Ferry. Due to the current Covid-19 crisis, the Theatre’s scheduled opening has been delayed until the spring of 2021.

DELAWARE TOWNSHIP

Dennis Lee is the creative director and founder of the Dingmans Ferry Theatre. Dennis acted in the 70s, performed with a New York City-based improv troupe, and was later a casting director. His love of the Theatre and appreciation for the performance arts inspired him to want to bring the joy of theatre “to the mountain.”

116 Wilson Hill Road Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 Phone: 570-828-2347

There is no other similar performance venue nearby, and the Theatre fills a void in the area. Lee has also produced a few documentaries about the area which were well-received. A long-time resident of Dingmans Ferry, Lee is looking forward to filling the Theatre with local and out-of-town acts.

MEETINGS

2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 6:00 pm at the Township Municipal Building

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2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, 7:00 pm at the Township Municipal Building

PESTS IN SEASON

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BOARD OF SUPERVISORS:

In the meantime, the Theatre has held a successful Golf Outing fundraiser at the Cliff Park Golf Course in Milford. The fundraiser was well-attended and boasted over 25 sponsors and donors. An outdoor variety show is scheduled for Saturday, August 22nd. The show will feature Jim Manfredonia singing Sinatra and a Back to the Future Skit, a dance duo, singers, and musical acts. Performers include Steve Wollman, Terasa Hill Tarquini, Mandy Librizzi, Gene & Kat Biscontini, Kristopher Tjornhom, Paige Gualandi, Tim Cortes, Sage Duo, Phil Carollo, and Akua.

OUR “SPECIAL TOOLS AND TACTICS” TECHNICIANS ARE READY TO HELP YOU!

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Open 10 am - 6 pm.

Closed on Monday & Tuesday for sanitizing & maintenance

CALL IN OUR “STAT” TEAM

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Akenac Park:

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Monday through Friday 7:30 am – 3:30 pm

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Public Works:

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Monday through Friday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

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“This is a very exciting and needed enhancement to Dingmans Ferry,” said Michelle Markey, the Theatre’s marketing director. Volunteer, Ava Neinstadt, a Delaware Valley High School student, is excited to help with the tech aspects of upcoming performances. Tim Singleton has also been an enormous help and ally to the planning and remodeling of the cabin.

HOME

Monday, Wednesday, Friday 8:00 am – 10:00 am

Details on auditions, reservations, classes, etc. will be shared as soon as they are available. The building and organization share a space with Akenac but operate independently.

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By appointment only

Booking for the Theatre has not opened yet, but reservations will begin as soon as possible. The stage will be low-cost or even free for performers.

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The Theatre’s vision began several years ago, and Lee is so pleased it is finally coming to fruition! He describes the near completion of the Theatre as a “dream come true” and a venue “for the community to come together.” The Dingmans Ferry Theatre will be as professional as possible with time prearranged for rehearsals and run-throughs before performances. The Theatre seats an audience of approximately 50, so it is an intimate venue. The audience will feel almost as if they are watching from side stage, and there is no bad seat in the house!

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HOURS OF OPERATION:

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FLEAS

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

Dingmans Ferry/Delaware Township Historical Society

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THE MUSEUM IS OPENING!

John Henderson Chair - jhenderson@delawaretownshippa.gov

The Museum is now open from 10:00 am to 2:00pm on Saturday, August 8th Saturday, September 5th and Saturday, September 19th; and on Saturday, October 3rd and Saturday, October 17th. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions, access will be limited and masks will be required to enter the building. Guests can relax on our screened porch while awaiting admittance.

We will also open the museum during any Township functions that is scheduled, such as the Fall Festival, Christmas, etc.

Jane Neufeld Vice-Chair | Treasurer - jneufeld@delawaretownshippa.gov

The Library has closed and we will now be utilizing that additional space to enlarge the Museum.

We are now in the planning stages of developing this space. We will be conducting renovations during the fall and winter. This work will include display planning, carpentry, decorating, and display construction. Assistance will be needed and appreciated and all ideas are welcomed! We are considering dedicating each display room to members who wish to make a tax-deductible donation for the project of a prescribed minimum amount or greater. Interested parties may contact me thru our website contact page. Participation either financially or physically is greatly appreciated. Until gathering restrictions are eliminated or changed, we will be unable to restart our presentation schedule. We will begin scheduling speakers as soon as feasible.

Annual dues are still required to maintain your membership Please forward any 2020 dues to Dingmans Ferry Historical Society, 116 Wilson Hill Rd., Dingmans Ferry PA 18328. Include your name and e-mail address so that we can record your payment. Dues remain at $5.00 per person and $10.00 per family. This is a small price to pay to maintain our History and Museum, learning our history, social activities and entertainment.

Rick Koehler Secretary - rkoehler@delawaretownshippa.gov

e ADMINISTRATION Krista Predmore Township Administrator kpredmore@delawaretownshippa.gov Sharon Franks Office Assistant sharonf@delawaretownshippa.gov Robin Jones H.R. | Administrative Asst. rjones@delawaretownshippa.gov Lori McCrory Permit Assistant lmccrory@delawaretownshippa.gov

e ROAD & MAINTENANCE DEPT. Vincent Flatt | Road Master vflatt@delawaretownshippa.gov Michael Moffa mmoffa@delawaretownshippa.gov Jeff Ireland dtbos@ptd.net Chris Kimble dtbos@ptd.net

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The Dingmans Ferry Theatre planning is completed and work is underway. View the progress of the work and event scheduling on Facebook or e-mail them at dingmansferrytheatre@gmail.com.

Planning Commission - Sharon Franks, Secretary

REMEMBER, YOUR HISTORICAL SOCIETY IS WORKING TO PRESERVE THE HISTORY OF DINGMANS FERRY!

Board of Auditors Chair, Dennis Lee - dennisleedtauditor@gmail.com

Wishing you good health and safety.

“Seeds sold in Pennsylvania are rigorously tested to ensure that they are genetically pure and regulated to ensure that what’s on the label is what’s in the package,” Secretary Redding said. “Planting seeds without knowing what they are can wreak havoc with our environment, destroy

agricultural crops and incur costly control efforts for years to come.”

If opened, double bag and seal the seeds. Do not plant them or discard loose seeds.

Seeds labelled as jewelry are likely a scam known as "brushing.” Companies boost online sales by purchasing their own products through fake buyer accounts created by the company. The products are shipped to a real address, to someone who didn’t order the item. The seller writes a positive review of their items from the fake buyer account.

Report the package to the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) confidential Antismuggling Hotline, 800877-3835 or email SITC.Mail@ aphis.usda.gov. USDA will provide further instructions.

In the past, scammers have sent empty packages. Recent packages have been filled with unlabeled seeds.

Consumers who receive unsolicited seeds are asked to retain the seeds and packaging.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

Township Historian - Tim Singleton

e ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS

Agriculture Department Warns Consumers to Report Unsolicited, Mislabeled Seeds Received by Mail Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding today warned consumers to properly discard and report unordered and mislabeled seeds shipped from overseas. Consumers nationwide have received seeds in packages labeled as jewelry. These seeds may contain plant diseases, weeds or invasive plants that could harm Pennsylvania’s agriculture industry and ecosystem.

Zoning Hearing Board - Lori McCrory, Secretary

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

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s seed program licenses seed distributors, and analyzes and certifies seeds to help ensure that seeds are free of pathogens, invasive plants and noxious weeds.

For more information on Pennsylvania’s efforts to protect and promote agriculture in Pennsylvania, visit agriculture.pa.gov.

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School Real Estate Taxes School Real Estate Taxes for the Delaware Valley School District were mailed on August 1, 2020. 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 – 4pm:

September 19th • September 22nd • September 24th September 26th • September 28th • September 30th

ELECTION NEWS

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

The PA General Election is November 3, 2020!

The polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.

Register to vote, request an absentee ballot, or check your registration status online at:

United Way Of Pike County Allocation Applications Open

www.votespa.com POLLING LOCATIONS IN DELAWARE TOWNSHIP: Delaware Township 1 Holy Trinity Lutheran Church 16 Delaware Chest Drive Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328 Delaware Township 2 Delaware Township Municipal Building Wilson Hill Road Dingmans Ferry, PA 18328

Applications are now open for 2020 funding allocations through the United Way of Pike County.

The application deadline is September 30 for eligible non-profits and agencies.

The United Way supports a full range of local human services to alleviate hunger and homelessness and to meet critical needs of the community.

To receive an application, email United Way President Steve Guccini at steveguccini@gmail.com or Secretary Amy Burke at aburke@thedimebank.com.

Completed applications can be returned to Steve or Amy, or can be mailed to the United Way of Pike County, PO Box 806, Milford, PA 18337.

The United Way Board of Director will announce 2020 allocations by October 15, 2020.

Call me today for a noobligation quote!

570.828.6145 Rebecca Gray Your Local Farmers Agent 100 MARY LOUS WAY (Route 739) DINGMANS FERRY, PA 18328 RGRAY1@FARMERSAGENT.COM

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

Make Your Voice Count!

2020 Census Assistance Requested The 2020 Census is happening now and you can participate online! It takes just a few minutes and can make a great impact on our communities resources.

2020 Census Make Sure Townships Count

NEW DEADLINE: September 30 Townships are a great place to live, work, play, and raise a family.

RESPONSE DAY

 Count every resident: It’s important to make sure every township resident, young and old, is counted. Critical dollars and representation are at stake.  Constitution Day: The census was mandated by the Founding Fathers in the U.S. Constitution. Let’s celebrate that historical fact by making sure every township resident is counted by September 17, Constitution Day.  Did you know? This is the first time the census can be filled out online. It can also be completed by mail and phone.

Census results help determine how billions of dollars in federal funding flow into states and communities each year. for programs like ours.

The results determine how many seats in Congress each state will hold.

How the 2020 Census helps your community Here’s why responding to the 2020 Census is important:

It’s mandated by the U.S. Constitution in Article 1, Section 2.

Federal and state funding

Federal, state, and municipal officials make decisions about how billions of dollars in public funds are allocated for schools, roads and bridges, fire and emergency services, health care, and more based on census statistics. Programs include those for:

The U.S. has counted the population every 10 years since 1790!

It can be filled out from the comfort of your own home while you are social distancing by clicking here or by calling 844-330-2020 “Even though we are social distancing, it is still important for all of us to respond to the Census! When you respond to the Census, it helps fund our local needs such as healthcare, bridge and road repairs, job training and so much more. So, please, everyone, respond today - You can respond online at 2020census.gov or by phone at (844) 330-2020.

Respond to the census today!” #2020census

TOWNSHIP CENSUS 2020

Municipalities:  Liquid fuels funds for roads and bridges  Natural gas impact fees  Grants targeted to municipalities

College students:  Federal Pell Grants  Career and technical education grants  Adult education grants

Older people and low-income populations:  Medicare  Medicaid  Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP)  Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP)

Young Children:  Head Start  National School Lunch Program  Title IX Funding PLUS, many more community programs!

Congressional representation

2020 Census results will determine the number of seats each state receives in the U.S. House of Representatives and, in turn, the number of Electoral College votes. Results also impact congressional and state legislative districts.

Business decisions Connect with us: @uscensusbureau For more information:

Business owners use census statistics to create economic and employment opportunities. The statistics help determine where to hire new employees, open new locations, and more.

2020CENSUS.GOV

Shape your future START HERE 

Call Us At

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

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

PAGE 5

EMERGENCY MGMT. Enduring Principles

By George Beodeker, Delaware Township Emergency Management Coordinator

It is August of 2020, and according to my calendar and calculations we have been living under a “declaration of emergency” at a national, state, county, and township level for approximately 155 days. And collectively we struggle to make sense of this new reality and the uncomfortable pressure that comes from the unknown we continue to face every day that the pandemic continues.

During this time we have seen a myriad of impacts to daily life from the presence of the Covid 19 virus. Cancellation of events and activities that are basic to the American way of life and our sense of individual freedom. Many have lost friends or loved ones to the virus or have contracted the virus and survived. Fear, both real and imagined seems to permeate every corner of our lives. First and foremost the message of this article will be and must be that as a nation and a local community we will survive this eventually and come to grips with the inevitable changes to life and society that events such as this virus always bring. We are continually being bombarded at all levels with the message that this pandemic and these times are “unprecedented”.

Many current residents cannot recall the “unprecedented” damage of Superstorm Sandy in 2012 and a few have no idea or recollection of winter storms Riley and Quinn only 2 years ago.

As someone who has been involved in emergency services for 45 years this year, I think it is important to gauge each event not in how much worse it is than previous events, but within a framework of principles that have been evolving across the last 100 plus years both in society and response to better understand how to limit the impact of the disaster regardless of the underlying cause.

From the Spanish influenza pandemic in 1918, which killed an estimated 675,000 Americans in an era with no real therapeutic treatments or equipment and limited capability to mobilize response to the economic disaster of the Great Depression and WW2 with rationing of critical supplies and commodities(ask your grandparents or great grandparents) the challenges were overcome by the application of principles and use of technological advances to regain control and return to “normal” . And that Without aligning any political normal is often significantly connotations, as an emergency different than before the responder, manager, and event occurred. Think about student of history, it is airline travel before 9-11, or important to rebut that the fact that there is literally perception and look to find an entire generation that was references that allow us to not even born at the time. In examine current circumstances reality, there is another entire and chart a course forward. generation being born now in As an example, on a local 2020, that will endure its own level, Hurricane Hazel in series of “unprecedented” 1955 was an “unprecedented” disasters and only know of event that devastated this area the pandemic of 2020 from and directly resulted in the their parents or grandparents. formation of the Delaware Each of us brings our own or Township Volunteer Fire our family’s experiences, good Company. Yet, except for a few and bad, to how we respond surviving residents and photos to succeeding emergency in the historical society records, challenges we face in our the event is largely forgotten. lifetime.

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My goal in this article is to suggest some frameworks from my training that you can use as “enduring principles” to guide your personal actions before during and after any emergency. Following and adapting these ideas can help to align priorities in your daily life and help to relieve anxiety, psychological stress and anxiety associated with living through a disaster. The most basic of these principles is found in the “cycles” of Emergency Management.

These include Mitigation, Preparation, Response and Recovery. We continue to hear a lot from public health officials during this pandemic about “mitigation”. Specifically, the wearing of masks and social distancing, as well as the necessity for quarantine if you are exposed to the virus or test positive. These concepts are designed to limit the effects of the pandemic at all levels.

However, we cannot ignore the fact that while engaged in a pandemic emergency, we are still vulnerable to other disasters (like last week’s storms and power outages)and should apply the concept of mitigation to those risks even as we live everyday with the virus. For example, have you removed diseased or damaged trees or branches around your home or electrical service connection? If heavy rains have caused flooding in your property have you installed a sump pump? Or have a portable pump? If the power goes out how will you run it or other critical equipment such as refrigerators?

Last week, the hum of both fixed and portable backup generators was constant in my neighborhood- so it is obvious that people have recognized the need, but do they truly understand the principle itself of how once you have identified the

mitigation measure-- you need to identify all that is needed to support it. This next phase is “preparation”. As stated in previous articles – preparation occurs at all levels but most importantly at the personal level. Following the guidance of authorities such as PEMA and FEMA regarding a cache emergency supplies for yourself and your family is critical. Particularly in a rural area such as ours where the ability to get out to replenish supplies may be difficult or unachievable in the aftermath of an event. Regularly reviewing your personal emergency supplies and maintaining an up to date inventory is even more important during this pandemic when necessities may be rationed, or business hours reduced. This includes medical needs such as prescriptions, oxygen, etc. This would include Logistical support (fuel, etc) for your personal infrastructure, such as generators, propane, etc. Preparation also includes considerations for your personal Financial needs, especially since many families are struggling due the economic impacts from Covid.

While it may be easier said than done, a minimal cash reserve can be critical when all types of electronic transactions have been compromised by loss of power and internet. And we are all aware that banks are not operating normally due to mitigation rules. As emergency services and officials we take advanced level training in the principles of Resource and Logistic Management- as part of training in the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and the Incident Command System(ICS) – a standard approach developed in the aftermath of lessons learned on 9-11 and several natural disasters in the early 2000’s and signed into law

by President Bush. These classes are available free of

charge to anyone at the FEMA independent study website, I would encourage you to make use of some of your new found pandemic downtime and take these classes, to improve your personal skills and knowledge on how the systems and principles are applied during a declaration.

While some things may appear to be occurring normally or close to normal, keep in mind that across the country all of us are actually still engaged in response to the Covid 19 virus. And that all those activities are not going to be suspended when it becomes necessary to respond to another event at the same time. As I write this article, the people of Iowa are dealing with the devastating aftermath of a series of severe storms.

Huge wildfires are raging in California. And a couple of weeks ago, it was hurricanes in the south- while we suffered weather related impacts as well.

Without a sound framework of enduring principles based in lessons learned and understood by all persons working on/in the emergency or multiple emergencies occurring simultaneously- the impacts are often multiplied exponentially and the ability to transition to an effective recovery is compromised.

We will survive the pandemic and the other inevitable emergencies that we will experience while responding to the virus. Build your plan and devote your energy to following sound and enduring principles that are grounded in the lessons of all the past “unprecedented” disasters our nation has experienced. Stay safe and be hopeful for the greatness that is the spirit of the American people and allowed us to come through every previous challenge we have faced.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

George Beodeker - DTVFC Past Chief, Current President & Safety Officer 30 years with DTVFC as of 07/07/2020. Over 40 years in the Fire service. Pictured left to right: Capt. Chirs Kimble, Chief Sean Hughes, George Beodeker, Asst.

Chief Mike Cairns, Lt. Mike Moffa, Eng. Matt Doro, VP Ed Hammond

Toll Free Numbers STATE

PRESS RELEASE CONTACT INFORMATION:

Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps

CarlHelp Will Address Markers Responders Locate Public Information Officer 570-828-2345 ext. 813 Police, and EMS Emergencies - Help Fire, cwill@dtvac.org Reach You in an Emergency

When the ambulance service, fire department, or police are dispatched, RELEASEby DATE: they are given the "911" address the communications or 911 center. Unless the address April 10, 2020 is posted at the residence or building, it can be difficult for emergency responders to locate where the emergency is in a timely manner. In order to help with finding addresses, KEYFOOD DONATES TO LOCAL it is recommended that all residentsMARKETPLACE and business owners in Pike County EMS haveAGENCIES their "911" number posted near the street in front of their home or business to ensure a timely Local supermarket assists EMS agencies in sourcing cleaning supplies needed to clean response in the event of an emergency. uniforms and ambulances.

MILFORD, PA— On April, 9sign 2020 Junior Dabashi, ownermaterials of KeyFood Milford, donated Property owners can make a "911" address by purchasing at the localmany to Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps and Milford Fire hardware store. The signnecessary shouldsupplies be reflective, with numbers at least 4 inches in size. The Department Ambulance. Some of these sign should be placed approximately 2 feet from the driveway, visible inbags, both directions suppliesbe included; paper cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, cases of water, of travel, and not be placed in any "right of way". The numbers should contrast well with along with many other things. Of special the sign. Many municipalities have ordinances requiring these signs. was able to donate multiple note, Dabashi rolls of duct tape that will be used to seal PPE to make them airtight around the wrists

If you are a Pike County property owner and you do not know your 911 address, you can and ankles. call the Pike County Emergency Management office during normal business hours at Keeping with their mission during this public (570) 296-1911. As a service to the community, Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance health emergency, DTVAC took a portion of these donated supplies gave them the to Corps sells address signs at a minimal cost. These signs are reflective blueand and have other eastern Pike County EMS agencies 911 address in white lettering on both sides. The price for address signs is $15.00 without that are responding to suspected COVID-19 a post; $20.00 with a post. You can order address signs bycalls.

calling them at (570) 8282345 or completing an online form at www.dtvac.org.

Delaware Township Volunteer Delaware Township Volunteer Ambulance Corps is a non-proÞt organization that Ambulance Corps is a non-profit organization that provides basic life support (BLS) service provides basic life support (BLS) service to Delaware Township.

The Corps also provides Advanced Lifealso Support (ALS) service to Delaware Township and surrounding areas. Weto to Delaware Township. The Corps provides Advanced Life Support (ALS) service are always looking for volunteers! If you are someone you know is interested in Delaware Township and surrounding areas. are alwaysAny looking for volunteers!

If you volunteering please call usWe at (570)-828-2345. press inquires should be directed to are someone you know is interested in volunteering please call us at (570)-828-2345. cwill@dtvac.org.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

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 Inspector General..............................................1-800-932-0935 Insurance.................................................................. 1-877-881-6388 LIHEAP.....................................................................1-800-692-7462 LCB........................................................................... 1-800-932-0602 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 - Road/Weather Cond................. 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

FEDERAL Senator Bob Casey............................................1-866-802-2833 Senator Pat Toomey.............................................1-855-552-1831 IRS............................................................................... 1-800-382-1274 Medicare.................................................................1-800-829-1040 Social Security.........................................................1-800-772-1213

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Pike County Fire Depts.

Lackawaxen Twp. Volunteer Ambulance Service (Dept. 21) 109 PA Rt. 590, Greeley, PA 570-685-4022 Greeley Fire Department (Dept. 23) 245 PA Rt. 590, Greeley, PA 570-685-7537 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 - 570-6857330 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 Promised Land Fire & Ambulance (Dept. 35) RR 390, Greentown, PA 570-676-3818

FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania Utilities Encourage Customers to Arrange Payment Plans and Bill Assistance to Avoid Unmanageable Balances Programs Can Help Alleviate Growing Balances for Customers Having Financial Difficulty Due to the Pandemic Residential and business customers of FirstEnergy Corp’s (NYSE: FE) Pennsylvania electric utilities who are having difficulty making ends meet are encouraged to contact their utility now to enroll in payment plans or bill assistance programs. While shutoffs for nonpayment are temporarily suspended due to the pandemic, establishing an affordable payment arrangement or obtaining assistance can help keep balances manageable during this difficult time.

“We understand many customers are in a difficult financial situation because of the pandemic,” said Michelle Henry, vice president of customer service at FirstEnergy. “Customers who have lost income during this crisis may be eligible for assistance that was unavailable to them before, but some of those programs might not be available later, when overdue balances must be addressed.”

Customer service representatives are available to assist residential customers with manageable payment arrangements and can provide customers with information on needs-based assistance programs. These programs may include forgiveness of all or part of a customer’s overdue balance, helping them to avoid a large bill that would otherwise be due when the temporary suspension on shutoffs ends.

Assistance programs for residential customers include: Dollar Energy Fund: An emergency hardship fund that helps residential customers restore or maintain electric service.

Eligible customers may receive up to $500 while funds are available. Program funding is provided by FirstEnergy›s customers, employees and shareholders and other sources. The distribution of funds is administered by the Dollar Energy Fund. For information, call 888-282-6816 or visit www.dollarenergy.org.

The Pennsylvania Customer Assistance Program (PCAP): PCAP helps residential customers maintain electric service and eliminate past-due balances. For enrollment information call 888-282-6816, or to apply online, visit dollarenergy.org/myapp.

LIHEAP is a federally funded grant program administered by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania through local county assistance offices. Under LIHEAP’s Recovery Crisis Program, eligible customers may receive Crisis grants of up to $800 to help with past due electric bills. Applications will be accepted until August 31 or until funds are exhausted. To apply, call LIHEAP at 877-395-8930 or visit www.compass.state.pa.us.

WARM Program: Income eligible customers can reduce their electric bills by making their homes more energy efficient by receiving an in-home energy evaluation, working with a trained energy educator to create an energy-savings plan, and having the opportunity to receive energy-saving upgrades. The specific improvements that a customer is eligible to receive will be determined during the home energy evaluation. For more information, customers can call Dollar Energy Fund at 888-282-6816, or apply online at www. energysavepa.com.

211: This nationwide resource and information helpline identifies locally available programs that may assist customers with utility bills or other needs. For more information dial 211, visit www.211.org or text your ZIP code to 898211.

To apply or learn more about other company programs, visit www.firstenergycorp.com/billassist or call 800-545-7741.

FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania utilities also have established a customer service team dedicated to assisting business and commercial customers. This team can provide helpful information on available assistance programs and offer payment arrangements if needed. To explore these programs, please contact your utility company and ask to speak with a member of the Small Business Team.

Met-Ed serves about 560,000 customers within 3,300 square miles of eastern and southeastern Pennsylvania. Follow Met-Ed on Twitter @ Met Ed and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/MetEdElectric.

Pennsylvania utility customer service numbers are: Met-Ed 1-800-962-4848 Penelec 1-800-962-4848 Penn Power 1-800-774-1674 West Penn Power

PAGE 8

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LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

CANCELLATION NOTICE The Annual Harvest Festival Scheduled for Sept. 26th is Cancelled

Board of Supervisors Meetings Notice is hereby given that the meetings for the Delaware Township Board of Supervisors for 2020 will be on the second (2nd) and fourth (4th) Wednesday of each month on the following dates: September 9th and 23rd

October 14th and 28th.

November and December meetings ONLY will be on the first and third

AKENAC PARK IS OFFICIALLY CLOSED FOR SWIMMING AS OF SEPTEMBER 7th!

YOU CAN STILL ENJOY FISHING AND HIKING DURING THE FALL SEASON!

Wednesday of each month on the following dates: November 4th and November 18th, and December 2nd and December 16th. 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 6:00pm and regular meetings at 7:00pm.

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.

2020 Bulk Dump Disposal Days 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 the first Saturday of the month during the winter months.

September 5, 2020 and September 19, 2020 October 3, 2020 (and October 17, 2020 November 7, 2020 December 5, 2020 LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

PAGE 9

DIG DELAWARE Our Summer with Ruby-throated Hummingbirds

By Jack Padalino

The ruby-throated hummingbird was the only species of hummingbird found in the east of the Mississippi River. More recently the rufous hummingbird has been showing up east of the river. This minute sprite like bird, hardly bigger than a large insect, and shorter than the middle talon of a bald eagle, is white below and sparkling green on its back. The adult male has a resplendent flaming throat, which, when the sun strikes it, flashes a deep, glowing orange or red.

The hummingbird moves its wings with incredible rapidity that it seems to be moving through the air through wisps of mist. It is among the very few birds capable of flying backwards. Its buzzing wings hold it steady in the air as it hovers. Poised before a flower, its body is motionless. Its tail sways firmly fixed in space as if it were standing on a perch. It darts adroitly from one blossom to another, and pausing precisely in front of each one, probing it with its beak, starting and stopping with a jerk, almost turning at an angle with a sudden twist; or it may dart suddenly off and away at full speed.

Starting its northward journey many of these tiny birds fly over wide stretches of the Gulf of Mexico on their way to our southern most states. The ruby-throated hummingbird leaves its tropical winter quarters and moves northward keeping pace as the season advances with the opening of its favorite flowers. We found them last year at our feeders on the first of May. This year they arrived on April 30th. They feed mostly on nectar, but also eat insects and spiders; preferred flowers include honeysuckle, nasturtium, as well as lilacs and red-flowered plants. The bird consumes twice its body weight (0.088 to 0.112 oz) each day.

The birds’ courtship is incredible. Carl W. Schlage (1930) described the courtship flight. “It is comparable to the strutting actions of various species of birds. It is performed several time daily during the breeding season. While the female is quietly feeding from flower to flower, the male will go through this performance, calculated no doubt to impress her more full with all his charms. Rising up about eight to ten feet above and five or six to one side of her, he will suddenly swoop down, wings and tail outspread, right at her, passing within a few inches of her, the wigs and tail making a terrific buzz for a bird so small. Passing her, he rises to an equal height on the opposite sideband turning comes down again in the same way, describing an inverted arc, with that surprising loud buzz as he gets nearest to her.

He keeps up this continuous swooping, as I term it, as long as half a minute, at times; at the conclusion of which he usually flies to some near-by perch and rests.

During this performance the female feeds quietly at the same cluster of blossoms, not moving any distance away, and sometimes resting on a flower-stalk until he is through.” The birds breed from late March through mid-August.

The bird’s nest has been called “a model of artistic workmanship.” It is a little compact mass about an inch deep and an inch across. It is firm in texture, lined with spider silk and soft plant down usually scales from fern fronds, and covered on the outside with tiny bits of lichen. It is commonly saddled on a down sloping limb, often near and sometimes directly over water. The female lays two white eggs and incubates them from 11 to 16 days.

In early spring we usually see solo birds, or at most two or three together. We have three feeders, two in our garden and one under a maple tree. At the feeders it gives the impression of being a nervous, high strung, irritable little bird. It is intolerant of other ruby-throats to such a degree, as a rule, the more hummingbirds there are together, the more excited and hostile they become. They are very aggressive in defense of their food sources. Their feisty behavior is immediately apparent when several of them congregate at our feeders and flower patches. They seem to spend more time and energy fighting and chasing each other around than actually feeding.

Looking among the branches of the maple tree, I spotted two and three birds flying about, making darts at each other. Sometimes the birds are chasing one another, fly out and around the tree a little way the shoot in again among the branches. By mid-August there were a dozen or more birds at the feeder, the maple tree seemed to be swarming with hummingbirds. After the swarming they would sit motionless on branches and utility lines leading to our house.

PAGE 10

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

Use These Plants To Lure Hummingbirds To Your Garden 1. Bee Balm is a perfect choice for hummingbirds because of its spherical shape with spikes. The plant is also known as bergamot, horsemint and monarda. It needs full sun and cultivars come in colors of pink, orange, red and purple.

2. Cardinal Flower is also called ‘lobelia’ and has long flowers with stalks growing up to 48 inches. The plant thrives in moist but well-drained soil.

3. Zinnias produce flowers from late summer to mid-fall when hummingbirds are migrating. Its flowers are in shades of deep orange, yellow, red, white and purple.

4. Salvia is unique because of its tall spikes with bright flowers right in the middle. The flowers have a deep tint of blue and purple and require full sun.

5. Bleeding Hearts have dangling heart-shaped flowers in white and pink. The plant thrives best in shade and grows to 35 inches tall.

6. Butterfly Bush attracts butterflies but is equally attractive to hummingbirds. The elongated clusters of purple, pink or blue flowers grow from mid-summer to fall. It does best in full sun.

7. Trumpet Creeper can easily become invasive. The foliage is long and dense with tubular orange, red or yellow flowers.

8. Lupine thrives best in full sun. Flowers appear in shades of blue, purple, white, pink and yellow. Hummingbirds enjoy the nectar from these flowers in the early morning.

9. Columbine derives its name from the Latin word ‘Columbo.’ It produces flowers in blue, purple and pink.

In the shade, this plant with grow to 10 inches tall.

10. Petunias are easy to grow and maintain. Plant them in full sun in containers and hummingbirds will surely visit your garden.

At my home garden, I also grow an abundance of phlox, agastache, and the vining pink honeysuckle.

You may also want to use artificial feeders as a food supplement throughout the season. A simple recipe for feeders is to add 1 part table sugar to 4 parts of tap water and boil for 2 minutes. Do not use honey, artificial sweeteners or red food dye. Cool the mixture, fill your feeders but change the mixture every three days. It is essential to clean the feeder before adding a new supply.

Keep in mind that feeders will attract bees, wasps, hornets, ants or other unwanted species.

Put your feeders in a place that is easy for the birds to spot and in the same place as last year. Since these tiny birds rely on specialized food sources, they have to be good at finding their way back to the best spots. Once you get them established, they’ll be back!

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PAGE 11

30–50 eggs. After hatching and before reaching adulthood, SLF goes through four nymphal stages. Nymphs are small (⅛ to ½ inch) and can be hard to find. The first three stages (instars) are all black with white spots, and the last instar is red with white dots and black stripes (Figure 1). SLF adults emerge in July

and are active until winter. This is the most obvious and easily detectable stage because they are large (~1 inch) and highly mobile. Adults have black bodies with brightly colored wings.

PARKS & REC

A. Egg mass Found September—June

B. Early nymph (actual size = ¹/8") Found late April—July

C. Late nymph (actual size = ½") Found July—September

A

B E. Swackhamer

ACTUAL SIZE: ¹/8" PA Department of Agriculture

ACTUAL SIZE: ½"

C

ACTUAL SIZE: 1"

D

PA Department of Agriculture

PA Department of Agriculture

D. Adult, wings closed (actual size = 1")

E

Found July—December PA Department of Agriculture

E. Adult, wings open

Figure 1. The life stages of SLF, including an egg mass on a tree.

Spotted Lanternfly Management for Residents Spotted lanternfly (SLF), Lycorma delicatula, is an invasive planthopper, native to Asia, that was first detected in southeastern Pennsylvania in 2014. It feeds on many plants, including economically important crops like grapevines and ornamentals. If you think you have SLF, do not panic! First, make sure the insect you are seeing is the spotted lanternfly. Second, learn about its life cycle and habits. Third, determine what plants it is infesting and what it is not. Fourth, employ effective management strategies at the proper time of the year.

Identification and Life Cycle There is one generation of SLF per year. The eggs are laid in the fall and hatch in the spring. Egg masses are laid on hard surfaces (trees, decks, houses, outdoor equipment, rocks, etc.) and protected with a mud-like covering. Each egg mass contains 30–50 eggs. After hatching and before reaching adulthood, SLF goes through four nymphal stages. Nymphs are small (1/8 to 1/2 inch) and can be hard to find. The first three stages (instars) are all black with white spots, and the last instar is red with white dots and black stripes (Figure 1). SLF adults emerge in July Spotted Lanternfly Management for Residents and are active until winter. This is the most obvious and easily detectable stage because they are large (1 inch) and highly mobile.

Adults have black bodies with brightly colored wings. Only the adults can fly. SLF wings remain closed while they are feeding and walking. SLF forewings are gray with black spots, and the tips of the wings are black with gray veins.

moving onto your property. Be aware that SLF is very mobile and management actions must be continuous to keep them controlled. Consequences of direct feeding damage to the host trees have not been quantified. SLF does not kill every tree on which it feeds. Some plants are at more risk than others. Plant death has only been observed in grapevines, tree-of-heaven, and some tree saplings. SLF is a plant stressor that, in combination with other stressors (e.g., diseases, weather), can cause significant damage to host plants. Following high infestation levels, flagging and canopy dieback of black walnut, willow, staghorn sumac, and maple have been reported. It is possible that after heavy feeding, multiple years of sustained damage, or particularly dry years, SLF may cause significant damage to ornamental and shade trees. However, currently SLF is predominantly considered a nuisance pest for residents, and death has not been reported in any ornamental tree.

Management - Stop the Spread When you travel in and out of the quarantine zone, check your car and any outdoor items you are moving (grills, outdoor furniture, landscaping supplies, mowers, etc.). Check for SLF egg masses from September through June.

Remember that egg masses may be underneath your car or in your wheel wells.

Steps of Spotted Lanternfly Management

to be found on these hosts. This table does not represent a comprehensive list of theand plantsReporting on which SLF feeds; rather, Current Distribution An SLF quarantine currentlyof in SLF effectfeeding for 26 counties in Pennsylvania (Figure it shows the ispatterns that have been observed 2). More counties may be added to the quarantine if additional populations through the season. Plants are less likely to serve as hosts for of SLF are confirmed. If you find a spotted lanternfly, kill it and report it SLF as with theythebegin to senesce at the end of the growing season. immediately Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture’s online reporting system at extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly or by calling 1-888-4BAD-FLY The patterns in host use may change with varying weather (1-888-422-3359). conditions, region, and other undetermined factors.

Feeding Damage

Management

During all other times of the year, check for nymphs and adults,

Therefore, it is important to identify the cause of the mold, as control measures and keep your windows rolled up when you park. Don’t store may differ for pests other than SLF. There is no way to prevent SLF from

things or park under infested trees, and don’t move firewood.

PAGE 12

Egg Scraping Walk around your property to check for egg masses on trees,

Stop the spread

2

Scrape egg masses

3

Use tree traps to catch nymphs

4

Remove host plants

5

Apply insecticides

PA Department of Agriculture

SLF is capable of causing serious damage to host plants, including oozing sap from the trees, wilting, leaf curling, and tree dieback. SLF feeds using a piercing-sucking mouthpart tapped into the plant like a straw. When SLF feeds, Stop the Spread it excretes honeydew, a sugar-rich liquid waste product. Honeydew serves as a When you travel in and of the quarantine zone,SLF check your substrate for sooty mold, fungi thatout thrive in sugary environments. expels significant amounts of honeydew, andyou oftenare themoving plant surface and outdoor the area car and any outdoor items (grills, around infested plants become coated with honeydew and sooty mold. This supplies, etc.).

Check moldfurniture, is generally landscaping harmless to people but canmowers, damage the plant.

If youfor seeSLF sooty masses June. Remember egg moldegg or sticky areasfrom on a September plant or tree, through it may be infested

by SLF, but itthat could also be infested withbe other insects that your produce such as aphids, masses may underneath carhoneydew, or in your wheel wells. leafhoppers, or scales.

1

Elizabeth Finlay

Introduction

Figure 3. Scraping SLF egg masses from a tree.

Figure 4. A banded tree covered in chicken wire to prevent mammal and bird bycatch.

any tree, but we recommend LIVING only banding trees where SLF is2020 DELAWARE | FALL abundant. You can use either sticky bands or a funnel-style trap. Sticky bands may be purchased online or from your

During all other times of the year, check for nymphs and adults, and keep your windows rolled up when you park. Don’t store things or park under infested trees, and don’t move firewood.

Tree Traps

Emelie Swackhamer

Walk around your property to check for egg masses on trees, cement blocks, rocks, and any other hard surface. If you find egg masses on your property from September to May, you can scrape them off using a plastic card or putty knife (Figure 3). Scrape them into a bag or container filled with rubbing alcohol or hand sanitizer and keep them in this solution permanently. Egg masses can also be smashed. Remember that some eggs will be unreachable at the tops of trees, in other well-hidden areas, and throughout your neighborhood and community. Be aware that this method may not reduce the number of nymph or adult SLF you see later in the year.

PA Department of Agriculture

Egg Scraping

Figure 5. A funnel-style trap wrapped around a tree to capture SLF.

Figure 6. Early instar SLF feeding on the invasive plant tree-of-heaven.

After the eggs hatch, nymphs will walk up the trees feed onSLF theinsofter new removing the tree. Failure to apply herbicide will result in new abouttotrapping “Using Traps for Spotted Lanternfly Control Chemical growth of the plant. Nymphs frequently fall to the ground, walk to trees, and growth from the stump and/or roots. Even when treated with Management” at extension.psu.edu/using-traps-for-spotted Only use insecticides that are registered by the Environmental walk back up the trunks. Take advantage of this-lanternfly-management. behavior by wrapping tree herbicide, multiple applications be necessary over time to Check and change traps at least Protection Agency (EPA) to treat any insect on yourmay property. trunks in tree traps to catch the nymphs (Figureevery 4). Traps can be used on any completely kill an the EPA tree. These trees can get very tall, so seek other week (or more often in highly All infested areas). Be insecticides EPA-registered have registration tree, but we recommend only banding trees where SLF abundant. canreduce use thenumber the help of a tree care service if necessary. aware thatisthis method You may not numberand of nymph a label for safe, appropriate, and legal use.

Home either sticky bands or a funnel-style trap. Sticky or bands may be purchased online Other undesirable invasive they species, such adult SLF you see later in the year. remedies should not be used against SLF because may be as oriental bitor from your local garden center. Push pins can be used to secure the band. tersweet, can support populations of SLF and can also be unsafe to humans, pets, and plants and could be illegal.

Host Removal

removed. While tree-of-heaven is a preferred host, SLF feeds

While some bands may catch adults, banding trees is most effective for nymphs.

Insecticides can kill insect contact and/or by being present on apests large on variety of plants, including many of thesystemically ornamental (Ailanthus altissima) is an invasive plant that Be advised that birds and small mammals stuckTree-of-heaven to the bands have been reported. in a plant on which they feed.

The duration of control that remains after trees commonly found in residential landscapes. Removing is common in landscapes and disturbed areas, such as along To avoid this, you should cage your sticky bands in wire or fencing material application (i.e., residual activity) varies depending typereduce of insecticide these may not be preferred andon maywhich not help SLF on the sides of roads (Figure 6). This is a preferred host tree for wrapped around the tree. Alternately, try reducing the width of the band, so that is used.

Contact insecticides kill SLF when the chemical contacts the insect as your property; refer to the next section for further guidance.

SLF, and current management efforts are focused on removless surface area is exposed to birds and other mammals.

Both of these methods a direct spray. Some contact insecticides have long residual activity and can ing it or using it as a trap tree by treating it with insecticide. will still capture SLF effectively. To eliminate the risk of catching birds and continue killing SLF when they walkControl over a surface covered with insecticide Chemical Tree-of-heaven grows rapidly; it can reach up to 100 feet tall mammals, you can use funnel-style traps that consist of mesh wrapped around residue. Systemic insecticides are absorbed by tree roots, bark, or leaves and and 6 feet in diameter. The bark of mature tree-of-heaven Only use insecticides that are registered by the Environmental the tree that leads into a container to trap SLF (Figure 5). Some companies may are moved through its vascular system to other parts of the tree. When systemic looks similar to the outside of a cantaloupe. When crushed, Protection Agency (EPA) to treat any insect on your propbe producing these traps commercially, or you could also make your own. The insecticides are used, SLF is killed as it feeds on any part of the tree, even if it the leaves and stems have a foul odor that many describe as erty. All EPA-registered insecticides have an EPA registration mesh (e.g., plastic netting) should be wrapped around the entire circumference was not sprayed directly (e.g., spraying the lower part of the tree will protect the rotten peanut butter. They spread by seed and will also pronumber and a label for safe, appropriate, and legal use. Home of the tree and funnel into a container (e.g., inverted peanut butter jar or plastic treetops). Systemic insecticides work best when applied from July to September. remedies should not be used against SLF because they may be their roots. This tree can be mistaken for bag) with a hole in the lid to allow SLF nymphsduce and “clones” adults tobypass through. Read However, systemics can also be applied at other times of year, depending on the unsafe to humans, pets, and plants and could be illegal. other native species, including black walnut, hickory, and more about trapping SLF in “Using Traps for Spotted Lanternfly Management” application method and the product used. For example, a soil drench containing staghorn sumac. For help identifying and controlling this Insecticides can kill insect pests on contact and/or by at extension.psu.edu/using-traps-for-spotted -lanternfly-management.

Check and imidacloprid should be applied earlier in the summer. extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly. being present systemically in a plant on which they feed. The change traps at least every other week (or moreplant, often visit in highly infested areas).

Use recommended methods to apply herbicide to the duration of control that remains after application (i.e., residBe aware that this method may not reduce the number of nymph or adult SLF Pollinators and Other Insects tree from July to September and wait at least 30 days before ual activity) varies depending on which type of insecticide is you see later in the year.

Many of the trees on which SLF have been observed feeding in high densities

Host Removal Tree-of-heaven (Ailanthus altissima) is an invasive plant that is common in landscapes and disturbed areas, such as along the sides of roads (Figure 6). This is a preferred host tree for SLF, and current management efforts are focused on removing it or using it as a trap tree by treating it with insecticide. Tree-of-heaven grows rapidly; it can reach up to 100 feet tall and 6 feet in diameter. The bark of mature tree-of-heaven looks similar to the outside of a cantaloupe. When crushed, the leaves and stems have a foul odor that many describe as rotten peanut butter. They spread by seed and will also produce “clones” by their roots. This tree can be mistaken for other native species, including black walnut, hickory, and staghorn sumac. For help identifying and controlling this plant, visit extension.psu.edu/spotted-lanternfly.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

are also pollinated by - 4 -bees (e.g., maples and oaks). It is possible that trees treated with systemic insecticides could have insecticide residue in the flowers and nectar the following spring. Neonicotinoid insecticides, in particular, have been associated with bee health decline. Additionally, there are many native insects that utilize these trees at the same time as SLF (e.g., caterpillars, beetles, lady beetles, lacewings, parasitoid wasps) and could be affected by the treatment.

Pyrethroids can also be damaging to beneficial insect populations and could cause populations of secondary pests, such as mites and scale, to increase.

Generally, systemic insecticides are considered to have a reduced impact on beneficial insects compared to broad-spectrum foliar-applied insecticides. We are currently conducting research to determine the effect of SLF treatments on pollinators and other nontargets.

PAGE 13

Park Regulations Updated to Curb Litter and Protect Wildlife The Superintendent’s Compendium of Designations, Closures, Permit Requirements, and Other Restrictions for Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area and the Middle Delaware National Scenic and Recreational River has been updated with new measures intended to curb litter and protect wildlife in the 70,000-acre national park unit. It was previously updated in May 2020.

• The Raymondskill Creek Drainage, from the base of the lower falls, including the pool area, downstream to the confluence of the Delaware River and including the Schanno House (former) parking area and grounds on the west side of US Route 209 at Raymondskill Creek, is closed from May 1 to September 30, annually. This closure does not include the McDade Recreational Trail which passes through the area.

The Superintendent's Compendium is revised and published annually but may be revised more often if needed. It 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.

Caddoo Access- Located off Old Mine Road in Montague Township, NJ, at the north end of the park, this site provides primitive river access for car-top launching of vessels. It is now open Tuesday through Friday, during daylight hours; the site is closed Saturday through Monday. It was previously open 7 days per week.

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, signed on August 26, 2020, is available on the park website at: https://www.nps.gov/dewa/learn/management/ compendium.htm. For those without internet access, hard copies are available by calling the superintendent’s office at (570) 426-2418.

Changes in this version of the Compendium are intended to reduce litter and trash and protect wildlife and natural and cultural resources throughout the park. The following areas and activities are affected by these changes in regulations: Raymondskill Falls and Creek- Raymondskill Falls is the tallest waterfall in Pennsylvania and has been one of the busiest sites in the park this year, often filling to capacity by 8:30 am on weekends

Picnicking- Areas where picnicking and food consumption are prohibited include: • Raymondskill Creek, trails, and parking areas, from the park boundary to the confluence of the Delaware River, including Hackers Falls and Trail; • Point of Gap overlook parking area and riverbank; • Sawkill Creek from the park boundary to confluence with the Delaware River (including the Mott Street Bridge and the pool below the bridge); • Riverview Trailhead parking area for the McDade Recreational Trail; • Karamac Trail and riverbank.

Park visitors who wish to prepare, cook or heat food using grills, stoves, or other food heating devices must do so at a designated picnic area that has the appropriate facilities for those activities, like restrooms, trash cans, picnic tables, and parking.

Designated picnic areas in the park include: • Bushkill Store Picnic Area • Milford Beach • Namanock Recreation Site

PAGE 14

• Smithfield Beach • Toms Creek • Turtle Beach • Watergate Recreation Site The Superintendent has determined changes are necessary to maintain public health and safety; protect the environmental and scenic values; protect natural and cultural resources and park wildlife; and avoid user conflicts. “We have been seeing large groups of visitors arriving early in the day and remaining in the same area for up to twelve hours cooking, preparing, and eating one or more large meals,” Chief Ranger Eric Lisnik explained. “Sites like our beach and picnic locations are made for larger groups. We have the right infrastructure, such as trash receptacles and restrooms, at those locations.”

Along with an increase in visitation this year, the park has also seen an increase in trash and human waste, which in some cases is causing damage to sensitive park resources. “One concern is the potential for bear-human conflict caused by the substantial amount of trash generated and left behind by large groups of picnickers, especially in more remote areas,” said Kara Deutsch, Chief of Resource Management and Science at the park.

“Access to human food and food waste leads to habituation and wildlife-human conflicts, especially with black bears whose primary habitat includes many of these areas. Once they have identified a location as a source of food, they will be back.”

Jennifer Kavanaugh, the park’s Volunteer and Partnership coordinator pointed out that “while the park has had more visitors, and more trash, than usual, we’ve also seen a lot more people interested in helping out by becoming Volunteers-In-Parks (VIP’s) this year.” To find out about becoming a VIP and what volunteer opportunities are available, go to www.volunteer.gov or email Kathy Hudak, Assistant Volunteer Coordinator, at Kathleen_ Hudak@nps.gov.

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

LIVING DELAWARE | FALL 2020

PAGE 15

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