Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection

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Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection To contact the PA DEP, visit dep.pa.gov. For more information or to contact the DEP, please visit www.dep.pa.gov.

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¡Te necesitamos!El DEP recibió comentarios de muchas partes interesadas, redactó una política basada en esas aportacione...
06/10/2023

¡Te necesitamos!

El DEP recibió comentarios de muchas partes interesadas, redactó una política basada en esas aportaciones y ahora es tu turno. Comenta sobre la Política de Justicia Ambiental provisional. Participa en una de las nueve reuniones para recibir comentarios del público o envía tus comentarios a través del sitio web.

http://dep.pa.gov/EJPolicyRevision

We need you!DEP has listened to stakeholder feedback, drafted a revised policy based on input, and now it’s your turn to...
06/10/2023

We need you!

DEP has listened to stakeholder feedback, drafted a revised policy based on input, and now it’s your turn to comment on the interim final Environmental Justice Policy.

Participate in one of the nine community public meetings or submit public comments via the website.

dep.pa.gov/EJPolicyRevision

DEP’s Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation turned 12 acres of coal waste and cliffs into a beautiful park that is drawin...
29/09/2023

DEP’s Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation turned 12 acres of coal waste and cliffs into a beautiful park that is drawing a community closer together. The men and women responsible for this transformation of Morgan Run Natural Environment Area in Clearfield County were honored with the Appalachian States Award this week. Since coal mining began in PA in the 1700s, 250,000 acres of mine lands were left abandoned. Now, these acres scar Pennsylvania’s landscape with environmental and safety hazards. It’s up to us to reclaim this massive amount of land and return it to a productive condition. DEP is thrilled to see the positive impacts a project like this can make on a community and we look forward to more opportunities like this in the future!

Shapiro Administration Awards $38.76 Million in Grants for Environmental Restoration Projects: https://bit.ly/3ZoHepnTod...
21/09/2023

Shapiro Administration Awards $38.76 Million in Grants for Environmental Restoration Projects: https://bit.ly/3ZoHepn

Today, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) announced $38.76 million in funding for six environmental restoration projects of abandoned mine lands in the first of three rounds of the 2023 Abandoned Mine Lands and Acid Mine Drainage (AML/AMD) Grant Program. These projects focus on reclaiming abandoned mine land, decreasing abandoned mine drainage, and treating AMD through the construction, operation, and/or maintenance of an AMD treatment facility.

The AML/AMD Grant Program began in the fall of 2022 as a single round with three application rounds planned for 2023 and at least $96 million in funding available through the federal Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

The program prioritizes serious human health and safety problems that are a result of abandoned coal mines, as well as treating AMD to continue restoration efforts under the AMD Set-Aside Program. By focusing on operation and maintenance needs or upgrades of AMD treatment systems, the program helps to prevent the loss of restored streams and creates significant water quality improvements that go toward watershed restoration.

20/09/2023

⚡It’s not too late to tell us your thoughts on our plan for EV charging through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program! Check out the FFY 2024 NEVI Plan + provide your recommendations: https://bit.ly/PA-NEVI-Plan

Federal Highway Administration

20/09/2023

DYK? Hundreds of years of mining in PA have left thousands of former mining sites in need of reclamation to then be stabilized by either reforestation or revegetation. Learn how DEP and partners are working to bring mining-scarred lands back to their original state, one tree at a time: https://bit.ly/46jNsJn

On April 21, 2023 an Earth Day Project took place where Friends of Flight 93 National Memorial volunteers, DEP and Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement staff planted 1,500 native tree seedlings as well as 625 shrubs and roughly 2,500 wildflower plugs at Flight 93 National Memorial. 📹⤵️ Green Forests Work

Department of Environmental Protection Outlines Plans to Ramp Up PFAS Monitoring Following Report: https://bit.ly/3RndA1...
19/09/2023

Department of Environmental Protection Outlines Plans to Ramp Up PFAS Monitoring Following Report: https://bit.ly/3RndA1P

Following a joint United States Geological Survey (USGS) and DEP study revealing PFAS in surface water across the state, DEP is continuing to take action to address these forever chemicals – ramping up efforts across Pennsylvania to monitor water resources and using the study to develop standards for surface water.

“There is still a great deal to learn about these dangerous ‘forever chemicals.’ Pennsylvania has been a proactive leader in addressing issues related to this emerging contaminant particularly when it comes to drinking water and public safety. This joint venture produced the first study of its kind in the nation, and associates PFAS in surface waters across a state with upstream activities that might be sources of the contaminant. This study has expanded our understanding, and will assist in determining what steps need to be taken in addressing issues associated with this emerging contaminant,” said Secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Rich Negrin. “Our findings have already helped, and will continue to help guide DEP’s actions regarding where to focus resources on identifying, tracking, and addressing potential sources of PFAS contamination.”

Did you know some bees and butterflies can live under leaf cover throughout the winter? Fallen leaves also absorb rain a...
19/09/2023

Did you know some bees and butterflies can live under leaf cover throughout the winter? Fallen leaves also absorb rain and release moisture back into soil and plants as they decompose. Leave some leaves, your yard will love you for it! 🍂🍁

Learn more ➡️ http://bit.ly/3f7Lr9O

DYK? DEP has approximately $1 million in grant funding available for environmental education projects!Grants are availab...
19/09/2023

DYK? DEP has approximately $1 million in grant funding available for environmental education projects!

Grants are available to schools, colleges, nonprofit community and environmental organizations, county conservation districts, and businesses.

Check out these testimonials from previous grant recipients and learn how to apply!
➡️ bit.ly/PADEPEEGrants

Fall is right around the corner! It’s a great time to spend time outdoors, but ticks and mosquitoes remain active. Make ...
18/09/2023

Fall is right around the corner! It’s a great time to spend time outdoors, but ticks and mosquitoes remain active. Make sure to protect yourself and your family so you can safely enjoy the outdoors!
🍁🍂➡️ dep.pa.gov/fightthebite

Many climate-related changes are projected if we don't reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. And climate change will not ...
14/09/2023

Many climate-related changes are projected if we don't reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. And climate change will not affect all Pennsylvanians equally.

Learn more about climate change in Pennsylvania: dep.pa.gov/climate

14/09/2023

Join the Conservation & Natural Resources Advisory Council for a discussion exploring opportunities to reduce carbon dioxide emissions through underground carbon storage and aboveground carbon sequestration.

Panelists will address environmental and economic considerations for public and private landowners including a question-and-answer session and discussion. Learn more and register ➡ https://bit.ly/3EAziYF

Filling up your car at a gas station is a process we rarely think much about. But, do you know what’s under the ground b...
13/09/2023

Filling up your car at a gas station is a process we rarely think much about. But, do you know what’s under the ground beneath the pump? There is an entire underground storage tank system that can house between 30,000-60,000 gallons of gasoline and diesel fuel.

Learn more: https://bit.ly/3OjSq2A

DYK? Discharged pool water and waters containing chlorine or other chemicals can be detrimental to aquatic life if not h...
13/09/2023

DYK? Discharged pool water and waters containing chlorine or other chemicals can be detrimental to aquatic life if not handled responsibly.

Learn how to properly close your swimming pool for the year:
➡️ http://bit.ly/2z1ZqtC

On September 7, 2023, DEP staff in the Southeast Region toured the Energy Transfer Marcus Hook Terminal, located in a de...
12/09/2023

On September 7, 2023, DEP staff in the Southeast Region toured the Energy Transfer Marcus Hook Terminal, located in a designated Environmental Justice community.

In an effort to enhance our public participation process, DEP will host a public meeting and hearing for this facility on Tuesday, September 19, 2023 at 6:00 PM.

For more information about plan approval and process, visit dep.pa.gov/ETMT.

Shapiro Administration Secures $100 Million from Monsanto to Help Pennsylvanians Impacted by Environmental Damages: bit....
12/09/2023

Shapiro Administration Secures $100 Million from Monsanto to Help Pennsylvanians Impacted by Environmental Damages: bit.ly/3EzcjNB

The Shapiro Administration has secured $100 million through a consent agreement with the Monsanto Company, Solutia INC., and Pharmacia LLC to resolve claims related to their production of products containing polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), which damaged waterways and other natural resources across Pennsylvania.

PCBs, which Congress banned in 1979, are a group of man-made organic chemicals consisting of carbon, hydrogen, and chlorine atoms. PCBs have no known taste or smell, and range in consistency from an oil to a waxy solid. PCBs can accumulate in the leaves and above-ground parts of plants and food crops. They are also taken up into the bodies of small organisms and fish. As a result, people who ingest fish may be exposed to PCBs that have bioaccumulated in the fish they are ingesting.

“The Department has spent years protecting Pennsylvanians from PCBs,” said DEP Secretary Rich Negrin. “By securing this settlement, DEP is holding Monsanto accountable for what it did to Pennsylvania’s water and making sure that Monsanto is paying for the work the Commonwealth has done to keep its water clean. This agreement demonstrates our commitment to protecting the rights and resources of all Pennsylvanians.”

DYK? DEP is offering rebates up to $7,500 to Pennsylvania agricultural producers for energy efficiency projects!Learn mo...
12/09/2023

DYK? DEP is offering rebates up to $7,500 to Pennsylvania agricultural producers for energy efficiency projects!

Learn more and apply:
➡️ dep.pa.gov/agricultureenergy

Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture

From brownfield to future aqua and hydroponic facility! DEP Secretary Richard Negrin visited The Joyce A. Savocchio Busi...
12/09/2023

From brownfield to future aqua and hydroponic facility! DEP Secretary Richard Negrin visited The Joyce A. Savocchio Business Park in Erie, PA, where this facility will be built.

Half of the facility will be raising trout, and its waste will be used to create fertilizer to grow leafy greens and herbs. This will bring fresh food and jobs to a designated Environmental Justice Community in PA.

Shapiro Administration Provides Additional Updates on Plum Stray Gas Investigation: https://bit.ly/44MaS9d
08/09/2023

Shapiro Administration Provides Additional Updates on Plum Stray Gas Investigation: https://bit.ly/44MaS9d

Climate change is the most critical environmental threat facing the world. Many climate-related changes are projected if...
08/09/2023

Climate change is the most critical environmental threat facing the world. Many climate-related changes are projected if we don't reduce our greenhouse gas emissions.

Learn more about the impacts of climate change in PA:
➡️ bit.ly/PAClimateImpacts

07/09/2023

that lightning ⛈ most often strikes people who work outside or engage in outdoor recreational activities?

In addition, Pennsylvania is among the top states with the most lightning deaths and injuries.

Always check the weather before heading outdoors, but if you do find yourself in a thunderstorm, follow these tips to stay safe ⤵️

07/09/2023
Have you ever considered replacing your yard with native habitat to help sustain pollinators, decrease stormwater runoff...
07/09/2023

Have you ever considered replacing your yard with native habitat to help sustain pollinators, decrease stormwater runoff, and save money? We have some tips from Master Watershed Steward Wendy Seifert that can help! 🦋🌼🐝
➡️ http://bit.ly/3zOb0ss

DYK? Mosquitoes are the world's deadliest animal. 🦟 Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites!✔️ Eliminate standing, stag...
06/09/2023

DYK? Mosquitoes are the world's deadliest animal. 🦟 Take precautions to avoid mosquito bites!

✔️ Eliminate standing, stagnant water
✔️ Keep gutters clean
✔️ Wear insect repellent
✔️ Repair window screens
✔️ Reduce outdoor exposure at dawn and dusk

➡️ dep.pa.gov/westnile

ICYMI: Drought Watch Remains for 20 Counties:dep.pa.gov/droughtAdams, Berks, Bucks, Cameron, Chester, Clarion, Cumberlan...
05/09/2023

ICYMI: Drought Watch Remains for 20 Counties:
dep.pa.gov/drought

Adams, Berks, Bucks, Cameron, Chester, Clarion, Cumberland, Dauphin, Fayette, Franklin, Fulton, Huntingdon, Lancaster, Lebanon, Lehigh, Montgomery, Northampton, Perry, Venango and York counties remain on drought watch.

Residents on drought watch are asked to reduce their individual water use by 5 to 10%, or a reduction of three to six gallons of water per day.

Here are a few ways to help conserve water:

✅ Skip the car wash
✅ Run the dishwasher and washing machine less often
✅ Water your garden in the cooler evening or morning hours
✅ Water your lawn only if necessary
✅ Check for and repair household leaks
✅ Set up a rain barrel to be ready to repurpose rain when it does fall

01/09/2023

These days, disasters are happening with greater force and frequency.

September is . We'll share tips to keep you safe all month long. 💪

DYK? Discharged pool water and waters containing chlorine or other chemicals can be detrimental to aquatic life if not h...
01/09/2023

DYK? Discharged pool water and waters containing chlorine or other chemicals can be detrimental to aquatic life if not handled responsibly.

Learn how to properly close your swimming pool for the year:
➡️ http://bit.ly/2z1ZqtC

Shapiro Administration Awards $2.9 Million to Schools, Businesses, and Local Governments Working to Switch to Zero- or L...
31/08/2023

Shapiro Administration Awards $2.9 Million to Schools, Businesses, and Local Governments Working to Switch to Zero- or Low-Emission Vehicles: https://bit.ly/45yNYTK

The DEP Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant (AFIG) program supports projects to replace older gasoline or diesel fueled vehicles with cleaner fuel vehicles and install related fueling infrastructure to improve air quality in Pennsylvania. It builds on Governor Shapiro’s agenda to create a bold, comprehensive climate and energy plan that will grow Pennsylvania’s economy, protect and create jobs, and address climate change.

“The Shapiro Administration is committed to supporting municipalities, school districts, and businesses that want to make zero- or low-emission transportation part of their operations,” said DEP Secretary Rich Negrin. “The range of funded projects—our first funded electric 18-wheelers, a 40-car electric taxi fleet, electric scooters for a residential development, propane and electric buses and garbage trucks, and more—shows that interest in clean transportation is burgeoning among business and community leaders in Pennsylvania. DEP is excited to help them include healthier air quality in their mission.”

31/08/2023

FUNDING: If you are a small business that helps to increase energy efficiency, reduce pollution, or protect PA’s waterways, you may be eligible for the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Small Business Advantage Grant Program.
Learn more. 👉 https://ow.ly/XxJa50PFuvJ

30/08/2023
30/08/2023

: If you find a tick crawling on you, it’s a sign there may be others—do a tick check ASAP!

30/08/2023

DEP recently removed four underground storage tanks in Slippery Rock, PA. In cases where the owners of abandoned underground storage tanks are not able to remove them, DEP is able to step in to do just that. Removing underground storage tanks helps the community develop the property into a prosperous business, drawing in economic revenue.

30/08/2023

Many climate-related changes are projected if we don't reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. Learn more about climate change impacts in Pennsylvania:
➡️ bit.ly/PAClimateImpacts

Shapiro Administration Expands Environmental Justice Protections With Updated Policy and Improved Mapping Tool, DEP Aims...
29/08/2023

Shapiro Administration Expands Environmental Justice Protections With Updated Policy and Improved Mapping Tool, DEP Aims To Protect Every Pennsylvanian’s Constitutional Right To Clean Air and Clean Water and Ensure Communities Most at Risk From Pollution and Climate Change Have an Equal Seat at the Table: https://bit.ly/3OYKyTc

“Article I, Section 27 of the Pennsylvania Constitution establishes that all Pennsylvanians have the right to clean air and pure water,” said Rich Negrin, Secretary of the Department of Environmental Protection. “The updated environmental justice policy deepens that commitment by reaching out to communities, building trust, and increasing community access to support and assistance before they experience an environmental crisis or have a concern about a new facility.”

29/08/2023
Congratulations to DEP Secretary Richard Negrin for being named to City and State PA's 2023 Energy & Environment Power 1...
29/08/2023

Congratulations to DEP Secretary Richard Negrin for being named to City and State PA's 2023 Energy & Environment Power 100 list!
➡️ https://bit.ly/3QZXfQC

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