October 22nd - 24th, 2024:
Pennsylvania Abandoned Mine Reclamation Conference
Sullivan County Conservation District employees attended the 2024 Pennsylvania Abandoned Mine Reclamation Conference in State College. They went on a field tour where they visited several reclaimed/abandoned mine land sites that have been remediated through different projects. They also attended a presentation about the Loyalsock Creek Passive Treatment System, which is an acid mine drainage remediation project right here in Sullivan County! It was a very educational conference and the SCCD employees manned a booth to network and teach people about the conservation district and the important role it plays in protecting the natural resources in Sullivan County.
October 17th, 2024:
Ag Agencies Banquet
Penn State Extension and the Sullivan County Conservation District hosted the annual Sullivan County Ag Agencies Banquet. The guest speaker, Penn State Extension Master Gardener Coordinator McKayla Accettulla, gave an informative talk about the invasive Spotted Lanternfly. Awards were presented and it was a great evening with many members of the community.
Congratulations to the Conservationist of the Year, Wylie Norton!
September 27th, 2024:
Green Career Day
The Sullivan County Conservation District employees traveled to Mount Pisgah State Park to present a topic for Green Career Day. Many different conservation organizations came together to educate 8th grade students from Sullivan, Bradford and Tioga counties on different careers in the environmental field. Sullivan County Conservation District presented on stream ecology and taught the students how to evaluate water quality using macroinvertebrates. The kids were able to use kick nets to collect macroinvertebrates from the nearby stream. Then they brought the macroinvertebrates back to the table and were able to identify them using charts and photographs. It was a great way for the students to learn that the stream was very healthy!
August 28th, 2024:
|
Sullivan County Fair The Sullivan County Conservation District staff had a great time interacting with the community at the Sullivan County Fair. They put on a pollinator presentation where they discussed the pollination process and native plants. They had several types of native plants on display and also gave out pollinator seed mix packets so people could add some beneficial pollinator plants to their own gardens! |
June 20th, 2024:
Women in Ag Day: Mushrooms
Women in Ag Day 2024 was a great success with over 40 community members in attendance! Several guest speakers presented on educational topics such as foraging mushrooms, what to do with mushrooms, preparing and preserving mushrooms, and shiitake inoculation. There was even a mushroom craft to finish the day.
Special thanks to our guest speakers, Sam Bucciarelli from the Philadelphia Mycology Club, Heather Hanna from Penn State Master Gardeners, Becky Smith from Penn State Extension, Sean Freidhof from DCNR and Breanna Kisner from FSA!
Women in Ag Day 2024 was a great success with over 40 community members in attendance! Several guest speakers presented on educational topics such as foraging mushrooms, what to do with mushrooms, preparing and preserving mushrooms, and shiitake inoculation. There was even a mushroom craft to finish the day.
Special thanks to our guest speakers, Sam Bucciarelli from the Philadelphia Mycology Club, Heather Hanna from Penn State Master Gardeners, Becky Smith from Penn State Extension, Sean Freidhof from DCNR and Breanna Kisner from FSA!
June 4th, 2024:
|
5th Grade Environmental Day The 5th graders in Sullivan County School District had a great day learning from presenters that represented many different environmental agencies in Pennsylvania. Sullivan County Conservation District had a demonstration to teach the 5th graders about erosion with different soil types and cover crops. We also had a table set up displaying macroinvertebrates to teach about water quality. |
June 15th, 2019: E&S Technician, Tori Welliver, using the stormwater floodplain simulator to show why flooding occurs
Rickett's Glen Earth Day Everyday Event
On Saturday, June 15th the Sullivan County Conservation District participated in the Earth Day Everyday event that was held at Rickett's Glen State Park. May 1st, 2019:
Two Native Fungi Killing Spotted Lanternfly
From Reading Eagle; Two fungi that grow naturally in Pennsylvania killed an infestation of spotted lanternfly near Antietam Lake Park last fall, a discovery that could emerge as a biological weapon to control the spread of the invading Asian insects, according to researchers. Researchers at Cornell University in Ithaca, N.Y., pinpointed the fungi as the cause of death of a number of spotted lanternfly in a wooded area near the county-owned park, according to a paper published April 22. More research is needed, but the finding could lead to “one way to control the spotted lanternfly,” said Heather Leach, a spotted lanternfly extension associate at Penn State's College of Agricultural Sciences. April 25th, 2019:
It was another succesfull year of trout stocking for the district staff. Carrie Richmond and Tori Welliver assisted Fish & Boat Commission Officer Jeremy Yohe. Trout were stocked throughout the Hoagland Branch, Elk Creek and Mill Creek . It was a great time has by all! Shown in the photo is a trout fisherman utilizing the log cross-vein that was installed during this years stream project that was completed by the conservation district.
March 20th, 2019:
Pennsylvania Seeks Volunteers for Statewide Cleanup
The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and Department of Environmental Protection are seeking volunteers for this year’s Great American Cleanup of Pennsylvania, a campaign of statewide community cleanup activities that runs through May 31. DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell said. “Getting trash off roads and streambanks makes communities more inviting, as well as improving public health and reducing stormwater runoff pollution. I thank the many Pennsylvanians who volunteer and look forward to joining in a cleanup event again this year.” “Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful is grateful to the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for its support of the thousands of volunteers that pitch in to make Pennsylvania a more clean and beautiful place to live, work and play,” said Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful President, Shannon Reiter. Volunteering is easy. People can simply organize their own local event and register it at Great American Cleanup of Pennsylvania, or can register to participate in an already registered event. Gloves, trash bags, and safety vests for the cleanup campaign will be provided by PennDOT, DEP, and the GLAD Products Company, a national sponsor. In addition, during “Pick It Up, PA Days,” April 13 – May 6, registered cleanup events have access to reduced or free disposal at participating landfills, through support from DEP and the Pennsylvania Waste Industries’ Association. During last year’s cleanup, 108,638 volunteers collected over 6.5 million pounds of litter from Pennsylvania’s roads, trails, and shorelines. Over 5,300 events were held, with every county participating. PennDOT’s AAH program contributed 25,927 volunteers, who cleaned up nearly 25 percent of the collected litter on 10,076 miles of cleaned-up roadway. Through PennDOT’s AAH program, volunteers collect litter on a 2-mile section of state highway at least twice a year. The program currently has over 4,700 participating groups, more than 91,800 volunteers, and 10,244 miles of adopted state-maintained roadways. PennDOT has created a comprehensive webpage that includes all volunteer opportunities available, from the Great American Cleanup of Pa and Adopt-A-Highway to Safety Training, Litter Brigades and more. Find it at PennDOT.gov, Roadside Beautification. In addition to the department’s clean-up activities, PennDOT is participating in a multi-agency initiative to promote plantings that will benefit Pennsylvania’s pollinators and native species. Volunteers can assist by applying to adopt pollinator habitats. More information on the department’s new Pollinator Habitat Plan can be found under Adopt and Beautify at www.PennDOT.gov. The Great American Cleanup of Pennsylvania is sponsored each year by PennDOT, DEP, Keep Pennsylvania Beautiful, and other partners. March 15th, 2019:
DEP conducting statewide study on risk of ticks
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is conducting a five-year environmental surveillance of ticks to assess the risk of tickborne illnesses across Pennsylvania. Funding for this project is being provided by the Pennsylvania Department of Health.The survey, which started in July 2018 in coordination with county governments, is part of the Pennsylvania Lyme Disease Task Force recommendations for combating the growing incidence of Lyme and other tick-borne diseases. It is funded annually through the state budget. “Lyme disease affects thousands of Pennsylvanians every year, but ticks are also known to carry other pathogens that could infect humans. This survey will provide important data that will help us better understand these arachnids in our environment and inform Pennsylvanians on how, when and where to avoid getting bitten by a disease-carrying tick,” said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell. “We want everyone to enjoy the outdoors and take the proper precautions to avoid contact with ticks, and we are proud to support the Lyme Disease Task Force’s efforts to protect Pennsylvanians.” “Lyme disease is a major public health concern in Pennsylvania,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Many people believe that Lyme disease, and the ticks that carry the disease, can only be found in wooded areas. However, I know personally, as do many others, that ticks can be found in your backyard, where you walk your dog, or the local park. These surveillance efforts will help us to share with all Pennsylvanians the importance of taking steps to protect yourself.” The survey is taking place in every county in Pennsylvania to track ticks’ habitats, life stages and peak activity levels and to test them for human pathogenic diseases. Additionally, 38 counties are conducting a specific survey of nymphal blacklegged (Ixodes scapularis) ticks, which can transmit Lyme Disease to humans. Ticks are collected using white felt drags that sample low-lying ground cover and understory vegetation for questing ticks. Fall and winter surveillance focused on analyzing adult blacklegged ticks for emerging and changing disease burdens in public use habitats across Pennsylvania, such as parks, playgrounds or recreational fields. The spring and summer surveillance will focus on collecting three tick species: the blacklegged tick in its immature nymphal stage, when it most often infects humans with Lyme disease, as well as human babesiosis and human granulocytic anaplasmosis; the adult American dog (Dermacentor variabilis) tick, which transmits Rocky Mounted Spotted Fever and Tulameria; and adult lone star (Amblyomma americanum) tick, which transmits Ehrlichiosis and Tularmeria. The nymphal stage of the blacklegged tick causes the most tickborne illness in Pennsylvania due to its size and activity period. It is significantly smaller – about the size of a poppy seed – than the adult and therefore less likely to be discovered on the human body. “The nymphal stage of the blacklegged tick’s lifespan overlaps with people enjoying the outdoors in the spring and summer,” McDonnell said. “Tracking and testing them at this stage is extremely important because it will allow us to more accurately pinpoint when and where risk of human illness is most prevalent and help prevent cases of Lyme disease in the future.” Since July 1, 2018, DEP collected 3,663 adult black-legged ticks for testing. February 20th, 2019
BSFLA to host Forest Management Seminar
March 6th @ 6PM, Stoll Building in Wysox PA If you own forestland. you probably have particular ideas about how you like to use it, why you value it, and what you hope to get out of it. Maybe you see your woods as an investment and are interested in a future timber harvest. Maybe you value wildlife and seek to enhance habitat. Maybe you enjoy privacy and recreation and want to make sure your forest is healthy and able to withstand the arrival of pest or disturbance. You likely have a unique combination of objectives and values associated with your woods, but achieving these goals takes planning as well as, in most cases, the assistance of a professional. A good management plan is the best tool you can use to actively seek out ways to meet those objectives while caring for your land. This program will introduce and discuss: -The purpose and value of a management plan for forest landowners -How to find and work with qualified professionals -Steps for defining your values, goals and objectives for your land -How to initiate a management plan and develop and amend it over time -What resources are available to help This program is presented by Sarah Wurzbacher, Penn State Forestry Extension Educator, and Chad Gadsby, DCNR Service Forester serving Bradford and Sullivan counties. December 11th, 2018:
Kids Christmas Craft Night
The District hosted a Kids Christmas Craft Night on December 11th at the Ag Agencies Office. Children of all ages were invited to attended and created unique ornaments / gifts using natural materials. Some crafts created included; glitter pine-cone ornaments, stone paintings, Christmas countdown snowmen and stick stars just to name a few. It was a great night full of fun and creativity. Thank you to all who attended! October 23rd, 2018:
Annual Ag Agencies Banquet was held on October 23rd, at the Saint Basil's Hall in Dushore. We would like to thank all that attended and a special thank you to all the local producers that supported the event.
August 25th, 2018:
As part of the River of the Year celebration, World’s End Day was held on Saturday, August 25. The event included a fly-fishing demonstration, workshops, children’s activities, a spotlight on small businesses, and a concert. The Sullivan County Conservation District joined the celebration and discussed macroinvertebrates and their connection to water quality as well as erosion and soil properties. Other organizations joined the event as well including DCNR, Friends of World’s End State Park, Lycoming County Audubon, Bucknell University, Master Watershed Stewards, the PA Game Commission, and others.
The next River of the Year event will be Hike to the Haystacks on September 23. For more information visit the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeepers website at http://www.middlesusquehannariverkeeper.org July 5th, 2018:
District Staff Corey, Carrie and Tori provided an educational program for the Library summer reading program. Topics covered were macro-invertebrates and how they can indicate the health of the streams that they live in, how to prevent soil erosion and each student also planted a sunflower that they were able to take home. Contact us if you would like to have an educational program.
July 31st, 2018:
NEW TICK SPECIES FOUND IN PENNSYLVANIA
Tests by the National Veterinary Services Laboratory in Ames, Iowa have confirmed the presence of Asian, or longhorn tick, Haemaphysalis longicornis, in Pennsylvania. An invasive species that congregates in large numbers and can cause anemia in livestock, the tick was discovered on a wild deer in Centre County. It is known to carry several diseases that infect hogs and cattle in Asia. So far, ticks examined in the U.S. do not carry any infectious pathogens. Easily confused with other tick species, including the rabbit tick, which is common in the Eastern U.S., the species’ distinctive “horns” may not be visible without a microscope. The Asian tick infests host animals in dense clusters of numerous ticks. Female Asian ticks reproduce asexually, so a single tick can reproduce and lay 2,000 eggs after feeding on a host. Cattle, pets, small mammals, birds and humans are all potential hosts. “Even experts have difficulty distinguishing among tick species, so it is important to take precautions to protect pets, livestock and family members from becoming a host for ticks of any kind,” State Veterinarian Dr. David Wolfgang urged. “Scientists don’t yet know how this species will adapt to the North American climate and animal hosts, but we know it survived New Jersey’s winter and has infested sheep and cattle in this region.” “The discovery of the longhorn tick is another reminder of the importance of tick prevention for Pennsylvanians,” Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “Ticks can be found in your own backyard, so it is essential to wear long sleeves and pants, use insect repellant containing DEET to help keep you safe from ticks and the diseases they carry. It is also important to check yourself and your pets for ticks, as pets can bring ticks indoors.” Native to East and Central Asia, the tick was originally identified in the U.S. in New Jersey, where it was found in large numbers in sheep in Mercer County in 2017. It has also been found in Arkansas, New Jersey, New York, West Virginia and Virginia. Wolfgang recommends examining animals on a regular basis, and checking for ticks after being outside to prevent tick bites and disease transmission. Livestock producers and pet owners should consult their veterinarians to develop tick prevention and control appropriate to their specific animals. To reduce tick habitat, maintain a nine-foot distance between lawn or pasture and wooded areas, keep grass height low, and remove weeds and brush bordering wooded areas. June 23rd, 2018:
The Conservation District and World's End State Park teamed up to have a Movie in the Park night featuring Centralia: Pennsylvania's Lost Town. It was a great turnout with over 50 people attending. Be on the look out for more of our movie nights in the future.
April 26th, 2018:District Staff assisted in stocking trout with Fish & Boat Commission Officer Jeremy Yohe. Trout were stocked throughout the Hogland Branch, Elk Creek and Mill Creek . It was a great time has by all!
April 25th, 2018 Pictured from left to right is Mark Davidson, Lycoming Conservation District Manager, Daria Fish, Chief Oil & Gas, and Corey Richmond, Sullivan County Conservation District
Chief Oil & Gas donated $1,500 to the 2018 Lycoming & Sullivan County Envirothon. Thanks to this generous donation, and other donations providing the Envirothon is possible. April 14th, 2018
The annual conservation district seedling sale was held at Cherry Township on Saturday, April 14th. There were over 100 pre-orders and many seedlings and fruit trees were purchased on the day of the sale. The seedling sale features a variety of evergreen and hardwood seedlings, fruit trees, food plot and wildflower mixes, as well as blue bird and duck boxes. Thank you to everyone that participated in our seedling sale and we look forward to seeing you again next year.
March 15th, 2018:
District staff were out and about at workshops on March 14th. Staff member Tori Welliver, attended the Northeast Contractors Workshop that was held at Keystone College. Sessions included speakers from PPL on Electrical Safety, Construction Site Safety from Allan Myers, Proper pipe installation by The Center for Dirt & Gravel Roads technician Wade Brown and the closing session included NTHA Manager Sarah Hall Bagdonas and President Paul Reining that covered topics of the Spotted Lanternfly and Chainsaw Safety.
Manager, Holly and Technician Corey attended the 4th Annual Connect Soils to Profits workshop at the Wysox Fire Hall on March 14th. Speakers, Ray Archuleta and Steve Groff, covered topics such as no-till, cover crops, soil health, grazing, and healthy streams. The Bradford County Conservation District introduced the air seeder program that will be offered across 6 counties and a local farmer gave insight on the practices he uses on his farm. Attendees learned alternative approaches to farming and shared ideas, tips, and suggestions. FFA students were in attendance and did a great job assisting the presenters with demonstrations. Both events provided a great opportunity for the staff to talk with different people about programs provided here at the district. March 9th, 2018:
LAST CALL, last Chance for Pesticide Credits
Penn State Extension will be offering a pesticide credit meeting for applicators on Wednesday, April 4, 2018 at the Sullivan County Agricultural Resources Center in Dushore. This meeting will take place from 1:00PM through 3:30PM in the upper conference room. The meeting will provide 2 +2 credits for licensed applicators. The same session will also be offered in the evening of April 4th at the Wysox Fire Hall in Wysox. For any additional information or questions please call us at 570-928-7057. February 6th, 2018:
NTHA is holding a "Spotted Lanternfly Informational Meeting" on Tuesday, February 27th in Mayfield, PA from 6:30-8:30 PM.
There is currently a quarantine in place for 13 counties in southeastern Pennsylvania to try to stop the movement of the invasive pest, Spotted Lanternfly. This pest is a native of China, and could possibly work its way into our region. This destructive insect feeds on a variety of over 70 species of plants including hardwood trees, grapes, apples, peaches, ailanthus, hops and certain ornamental plants. To educate those possibly affected by the Spotted Lanternfly and to combat the spread of this insect, the Northern Tier Hardwood Association will be holding this informational meeting for the general public and members of the forest product industry. This meeting is free, but please RSVP online at nthardwoods.org or [email protected]. This meeting will cover general information about the Spotted Lanternfly including: initial detection, biology and life cycle, current distribution, impacts of pest feeding, recorded damage, pathways for spread, and control methods. We will also cover what to do: if you find a SL, quarantine expansion, compliance agreements, etc. February 2nd, 2018:
2018 ESM Training Dates Announced
2018 Environmentally Sensitive Management (ESM) training dates have been announced! This is an awesome opportunity for any public entity to join Sullivan County's Dirt & Gravel/Low Volume road program. There is grant money still available!! To be eligible for funding participants must have a current ESM certification (valid for 5 years) - so if one of these date's work (there are others, but these are the closest to Sullivan), please add it to your calendar!! The District will reimburse for travel/hotel costs! Pre-registration is required and lunch is supplied both days! Please contact Tori at 570-928-0108 or at [email protected] with any questions! --------------------------------------------------------------------- April 3 & 4: Centre County (To be eligible for 2018 Funding) Ramada State College Hotel & Conference Center 1450 S. Atherton Street, State College, PA Room Block: Center for Dirt and Gravel Roads, $73/night || valid until March 15, 2018 --------------------------------------------------------------------- May 1 & 2: Luzerne County (To be eligible for 2018 Funding) Woodlands Inn & Resort 1073 Highway 315, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702 Room Block: Dirt & Gravel Roads Training, $83/night || valid until Apr. 15, 2018 --------------------------------------------------------------------- June 13 & 14: Schuylkill County (To be eligible for 2019 Funding) The Lodge at Sharp Mountain 201 S. 26th Street, Pottsville, PA 17901 Suggested Hotel: Ramada Pottsville 101 S Progress Ave, Pottsville, PA 17901 Room Block: Penn State Center for Dirt and Gravel Roads, valid until May 29, 2018 @$77.00/ night --------------------------------------------------------------------- October 17 & 18: Lycoming County (To be eligible for 2019 Funding) Holiday Inn Williamsport 100 Pine Street, Williamsport, PA 17701 Room Block: Dirt & Gravel Training, valid until Sept. 16, 2018 @ $104/night Dates In Blue: to receive funding for summer 2018 projects, you MUST attend one of these training's! January 8th, 2018:
Loyalsock Creek named PA River of the Year!
Home to outdoors enthusiasts in north central Pennsylvania, the Loyalsock Creek has been voted the 2018 Pennsylvania River of the Year. “This annual honor highlights our state’s wealth of rivers and streams, and recognizes the core of dedicated folks who fight to protect them,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn noted.“Public awareness of the Loyalsock’s value will be increased and initiatives along the waterway river will be underscored. Both serve economic revitalization by enhancing access to the stream; increasing tourism; and providing additional land and water-based recreational opportunities for area residents and visitors alike." As applicant for the honor, Middle Susquehanna RiverKeeper, will receive a $10,000 Leadership Grant to help fund year-long River of the Year activities. “The Pennsylvania 2018 River of the Year competition truly showed the depth of the region’s ‘Loyalsock Love,’” said Middle Susquehanna RiverKeeper Association Executive Director Carol Parenzan. “We are grateful to those who voted and encouraged others to vote as well, and we thank our lead partner -- Loyalsock Creek Watershed Association -- for its unending commitment and unlimited loyalty to this precious waterway, flowing from the Endless Mountain region of Pennsylvania to the West Branch Susquehanna River." January 1st, 2018:
Looking around this beautiful county, it's not hard to see that agriculture is an important industry here. Almost 30,000 acres of the county are farmland. Not only is agriculture essential for production of food, shelter, and clothing, but it is also very important to the environment and provides wildlife habitat as well. With farming being such important part of our lifestyle, it is very important to protect it.
The Sullivan County Ag Land Preservation Program, also called the Farmland Preservation Program, allows for the purchase of Ag easements on farms encouraging land owners to continue farming. Whena landowner sells an easement, the land must remain in farming in perpetuity and the owner gives up development rights of non-agricultural buidlings on the property. In Pennsylvania, the program has had great success. Nearly 550,000 acres of farmland across the state have preserved with 58 counties participating. This is great news for the the Ag community and environment. In Sullivan County, over 700 acres of farmland have been preserved. If you are interested in participating in the program and would like more information, contact the conservation district at 570-928-7057. Applications will be accepted January through March each year. December 8th, 2017:
PEST ALERT! The Spotted Lanternfly is an invasive species that has been discovered in Southern PA. This insect attacks and kills many hosts, up to 70 different species. Grapes, apples, hops, sugar maple and other important agricultural products, early detection is vital for the protection of Pennsylvania businesses and agriculture.
The Spotted Lanternfly adult is around 1 inch long with grey and black spots. The hind wings have patches of red and black with a white band. The legs and head are black, with the abdomen being yellow with black bands. Immature stages are black with white spots and evelp red as they grow. Winter is the time to scrape and destroy egg masses. The Spotted Lanternfly lays egg masses, 30 to 50 eggs each, and covers them in a brown, mud-like substance (As Pictured Below). They can be found on tree trunks or any outdoor, flat surface (such as lawn furniture, stone, brick or vehicles). We encourage those in and around quarantined areas to be on the look-out for egg masses to scrape and destroy the viable eggs, to decrease the new population for the coming spring. Video: https://youtu.be/WoFp_MbDiE8. If you think you have found a Spotted Lanternfly collect the insect and place in a container. Then report it to 1-866-253-7189 or at [email protected]. For more information contact us at 570-928-7057 or visit http://www.agriculture.pa.gov/…/spotted_…/Pages/default.aspx March 2nd, 2018:
March 14: Connect Soils to Profits
The Natural Resource Conservation Service(NRCS) is partnering in a conference in March on how farmers can increase their profits by increasing soil health. The Bradford County Conservation District will unveil their innovative Air Seeder Program and explain how they can help “keep you covered”. ->Time: 9:00 a.m. - 3:15 p.m. ->Location: Wysox Fire Hall, 111 Lake Road, Towanda, PA ->Cost: $20/person (includes lunch) ->Registration: [email protected], 570-265-5539 x3105 ->Featured Speakers: Ray Archuleta, Soil Health Consulting, LLC; Steve Groff, Cover Crop Coaching February 14th, 2018:
Our E&S Technician, Tori Welliver, attended the Rotary Club of Towanda meeting. She spoke with the members about the Loyalsock Creek winning the 2018 PA River of Year and the threats of the Spotted Lanternfly. The club presented Tori with a Towanda Rotary banner, pictured is Towanda Rotary Club President, John Secor and E&S Technician Tori Welliver.
January 23rd, 2018:Coming To A Field Near You!
Do you want to plant cover crops but can't due to the late season harvest of soy beans or corn silage? Then the Highboy inter-seeder could be the solution for you, this machine will be available in the County for planting cover crops in late harvested fields. If you are interested or would like more information please check out our Agriculture page or visit www.bccdpa.com/interseeder
January 10th, 2018:
The district is now accepting Dirt & Gravel Applications (only Dirt & Gravel applications will be accepted). To be eligible for funding the applicant must be ESM certified, the proposed project must affect stream quality and be open to the public. The deadline for applications is April 20th, 2018. For more information contact Tori at 570-928-0108 or visit the Dirt & Gravel page.
January 30th, 2018:DEP Releases New Resource for Stream Maintenance
DEP releases new resource "Guidelines for Maintaining Streams in Your Community booklet". The new guide is intended to proactively share information with the public so that stream work is done in an environmentally-sensitive manner, and in a way that reduces the likelihood of future problems. Performing stream work that is not properly designed can cause serious damages to you and your neighbors down stream. To view the booklet click the HERE or find it on the Chapter 105 Page.
|
June 13th, 2019:
Pennsylvania Producers Battling Coryza Disease
Twenty-four separate farm cases of infectious Coryza have been confirmed in both layers and broilers in the Harrisburg/Lancaster area of Pennsylvania. There While the disease does not affect humans and is not a food safety concern, it can be transmitted to unaffected birds by humans who have come in contact with birds affected by the disease. The primary method of transmission to other birds is by direct contact with infected birds. The first clinical sign of the disease in flocks is a significant drop in feed and water consumption. Affected birds appear depressed and have facial swelling, swollen wattles, mucoid nasal discharge and respiratory rates. There are both commercial and autogenous vaccines available to prevent the disease and antibiotics are used to reduce the clinical signs. Producers should, as always, practice best biosecurity management practices. Some biosecurity best management practices are: -Allowing 24 hours between visits including the vehicle -Put on clean, waterproof boots that can be disinfected or use boot covers -Do not enter livestock facilities unless absolutely necessary -Avoid animal contact -Visible check vehicle for "hitch-hiking pests" June 10th, 2019: DGLVR Road Sign on Harney Road in Cherry Township
Using money received from the PA Gas Tax, the Dirt, Gravel & Low Volume Roads (DGLVR) Program has funded over 100 DGLVR projects in Sullivan County. The objective of the program is to reduce sediment pollution in our streams by funding road improvement projects. These DGLVR projects include; installing new cross pipes or replacing undersized ones, replacing stream crossings, road fill and other best management practices.
Many DGLVR projects are finishing up and new this year are road signs to indicate where a funded project has taken place. While you are out and about in the county look for these signs to see where some of your PA Gas Tax money is going to use. April 30th, 2019:On April 30th, the Lycoming / Sullivan County Envirothon event was held at the Consolidated Sportsman Club in Williamsport. Five schools from Lycoming County participated including; Williamsport, Montoursville, Montgomery, Loyalsock and Hughesville. With the one school from Sullivan County participating also; Sullivan County. Out of the 21 total teams participating, the Sullivan County A Team were the overall winners scoring a 382. The team also had the top scores at the soil, forestry and current issues stations. The winning team for Lycoming County was the Montoursville E Team with a total score of 352, the team also had the top score at the aquatics station. The Sullivan County A Team and Montoursville E Team will now compete at the State Envirothon that will be held at the University of Pittsburgh Johnstown on May 21 and 22, 2019.
April 9th, 2019:
The Fish and Boat Commission is trying to get ready for the opening day of trout season and they're enlisting some help from people who like to fish. Large groups of volunteers help to stock area rivers and streams leading up to the season. It's a job that would be impossible without them.
Join conservation district staff on April 25th as we help with trout stocking in Elk Creek, the Hoagland Branch and Mill Creek. In our part of the state trout season opens on April 13th this year. More information about trout stocking schedules can be found on the fish and boat commission's website. www.fishandboat.com March 26th, 2019:
Warburton Farm Receives Dairy Investment Grant
State Senator Gene Yaw (R-23) applauded a Sullivan County farm on receiving the first grant from a new state program aimed at improving the production, processing and distribution of dairy products throughout the state.Warburton Farm, located in Forks Township, Sullivan County, was awarded a $36,845 grant through the Commonwealth Financing Authority (CFA) to process and bottle A2 milk. The project is the first awarded in Yaw’s five-county Senate District through the Pennsylvania Dairy Investment Program – a new state program supporting Pennsylvania’s dairy industry. “When I first heard about the project during my annual Breakfast Meeting on Agriculture in Sayre, I was very enthused,” Yaw said. “Those interested in the dairy industry are facing difficult times, and it is important that as a state, we continue to support them. The new dairy investment program is just one way we can encourage continued growth, expansion and innovative approaches to aiding our dairy farmers. I was happy to voice my support for the Warburton Farm application.” A2 milk, like A1, refers to a type of beta-casein protein found in dairy cows, which make it easier for people with digestive issues to process. Not all cows are carriers of the A2 gene, however, and the variants differ depending on the genetic profile of the cow producing the milk. A2 milk is different than lactose milk, as lactose intolerance is due to the sugars contained in the milk. “Our son was born with a protein allergy and through research we learned about A2 milk,” said Eileen Warburton. “Due to our research, we decided to test our cows. We believe this is a great opportunity to bring people back to having the most wholesome and natural beverage back in their diet. No one should have to live life without fresh milk and delicious ice cream.” The Dairy Investment Program provides grants of up to $100,000 for research and development and marketing projects, and up to $50,000 for value-added processing projects and dairy operations transitioning to organic products. Eligible applicants include dairy businesses and cooperatives, not-for-profit agricultural organizations, schools, and institutions of higher learning. Applications will be considered on a rolling basis as long as funding is available. “More and more dairies like Warburton Farm are looking outside the traditional farm business model to market dairy products directly from their farm to the consumer,” said Jayne Sebright, Executive Director with the Center for Dairy Excellence. “Grants provided by the PA Dairy Investment Program will help these farm families take the needed steps to evolve in a dynamic and increasingly more volatile marketplace.” Interested applicants for the Dairy Investment Program must submit an application online with the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) Electronic Single Application for Assistance at www.esa.dced.state.pa.us. Additional program details will be available soon on DCED’s website at www.dced.pa.gov. March 14th, 2019Stream Open House, March 18th @ Lycoming College
The Department of Environmental Protection's Northcentral Regional Office and the Clean Water Institute of Lycoming College will hold an open house on March 18 to provide information and resources to landowners and municipalities seeking to work in streams impacted by flooding and erosion. The meeting will be held at the Mary Lindsay Welch Honors Hall, Lycoming College, corner of East Fourth Street and Basin Street, Williamsport from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. During the open house, DEP staff will provide an overview of Restore Pennsylvania, a bold, four-year, $4.5 billion statewide initiative that will provide funding for critical flood control infrastructure, including large-scale stream restoration and maintenance work. Attendees can also speak one-on-one about their stream work and flooding questions with staff from DEP and eight other state, federal, county, and non-profit agencies, and view educational displays and demonstrations. In addition to DEP and the Clean Water Institute, other agencies participating in the open house include the Fish and Boat Commission, PennDOT, PA Emergency Management Agency, U.S. Natural Resources Conservation Service, Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy, Lycoming County Conservation District, and the Lycoming County Department of Planning and Community Development’s Hazard Mitigation Division. Questions should about this event should be directed to Megan Lehman, DEP Northcentral Regional Office, 570-327-3659 or send email to: [email protected]. For more information on stream maintenance, download a copy of DEP’s Guidelines For Maintaining Streams In Your Community. February 15th, 2019:
Dirt, Gravel & Low Volume Roads Program Breakfast
On Friday, February 15th the Sullivan County Conservation District provided a DGLVR training at the Forksville Inn. The breakfast was sponsored by Darway, and prepared by the Forksville Inn & Tavern. Sixteen participants attended the training. The focus of this training was to review program updates and provide a networking opportunity for the municipalities. Thank you to all those who attended, and a special thank you to Darway and Kelly at the Inn for the great breakfast. February 2nd, 2019:Pruning Workshop: Principles of Pruning
On Saturday, February 2nd the Sullivan County Conservation District in partnership with, DCNR Forester, Chad Gadsby and, District Board Member, Edward Zinser held a principles of pruning workshop. Participants learned how to keep trees and shrubs beautiful with proper pruning techniques. They learned WHY to prune, WHAT to prune, WHEN to prune, WHERE to prune, and HOW to prune. At the conclusion of classroom teaching, participants were offered an on-site outdoor pruning opportunity where they used the techniques they learned. Thank you to those who attended the workshop, and we look forward to providing this event in the future.
January 9th, 2019:
2019 Poster Contest Theme
Life in the Soil: DIG DEEPER Soil is a dirty topic, but everyone needs to learn more about it! Soil is the foundation for many of the items we use in our daily life, such as food, clothing, clean water, homes and more. Healthy soil equals healthy food, which equals a healthy you. Don’t treat your soil like dirt! We can’t wait to see all of the artistic entries for this year’s theme! January 2nd, 2019: 
The Penn State Center For Private Forests and other partners will host the 4th Biennial Forest Landowners Conference March 22-23 with the theme of Working Woods For Today And Tomorrow at the Penn Stater Hotel and Conference Center in State College.
The Conference is the region’s foremost gathering of woodland owners, forest practitioners, forest businesses, and others interested in woodlands and the wildlife that use them. Nearly 740,000 owners care for Pennsylvania’s 11.5 million acres of privately-owned woods. The goal is to equip a growing number of woodland owners with educational and networking opportunities to ensure continued benefits to and from these resources. Whether you own 1 or 2,000 acres, come learn, meet others who share your interests, and get the resources you need to improve the well-being of your woods. Discover more about... -- Enhancing woodland health and resilience -- Opportunities for small acreages -- Drones, GPS, and mapping -- Improving wildlife habitat -- Controlling invasive plants -- Planning the future and legacy of your woods -- Citizen science, fungi foraging and cultivation, prescribed fire, pollinators, and much more! Attend the Conference for two days of presentations, exhibits, field tours, workshops, and valuable connection and conversation opportunities! CLICK HERE TO REGISTER November 29th, 2018DEP Inspections Find Small Farms Are Making Good Strides to Improve PA Water Quality
The Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) reported on the commitment of Pennsylvania’s farmers to reducing pollutants in local streams and rivers in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Department inspections resulted in 96 percent of almost 3,000 small farms visited in the watershed meeting state requirements for water quality planning. “DEP’s expanded inspections program is a winning formula to improve stream health in our 43 counties in the Bay watershed,” said DEP Secretary Patrick McDonnell. “It documents the good work many farmers are doing voluntarily to develop plans to reduce pollution. Just as important, it creates productive working relationships that help farmers meet their plan obligations.” Farmers are required to have a Manure Management Plan to reduce nitrogen and phosphorous levels, an Erosion and Sediment Control Plan to reduce sediment levels, or both. “Nurturing living things is what farmers do,” Agriculture Secretary Russell Redding said. “Pennsylvania’s farmers have demonstrated that they understand the connection between clean water downstream, and healthy soil and water for Pennsylvania. We certainly have more work to do, but these inspection results demonstrate that farmers are committed to doing their part to improve water quality.” DEP, Conservation District offices, and the State Conservation Commission teamed up on inspections. They visited 2,924 farms, covering more than 329,000 acres of farmland. Focusing on smaller farms, they inspected operations averaging 87 acres in size. The results show that many farmers are willing to develop plans to reduce pollutants in local waters: Two-thirds of farmers visited already had their plan prepared at the time of inspection. Almost all the remaining one-third worked with conservation districts and agricultural consultants to develop their plan by the end of the inspection year. The program covered July 2017–July 2018. “Education is a large part of the program, as we use inspections as a catalyst to help farmers understand what’s needed and get them on track to develop and ultimately act on their plans. Action to improve water quality is our ultimate goal,” said Secretary McDonnell. The results represent the second year of the inspections program, which DEP launched in 2016 to complement existing state farm inspection programs. While inspections currently focus on plan development, the goal is to begin focusing on plan implementation in 2019-2020. Pennsylvania has 33,610 farms, spanning three million acres in agricultural land use, in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. October 6th, 2018:Good Water = Good Coffee
On October 6th, the conservation district held a Good Water = Good Coffee event at the Ag Agencies Building in Dushore. Dr. Benjamin Franek (Bloomsburg University) talked with guests about how different chemical components can affect their coffee and how to create the chemically perfect cup of coffee at home. Guest speaker Josh Bogart (High Mountain Coffee Company) discussed the history of coffee, how coffee beans are processed and the best ways to brew your coffee at home. Afterwards guests were welcomed to taste test coffee brewed with different types of water (Hard Water, Town Water, Spring Water & Distilled Water). The favorite among the guest was the town water, and the least favorite being the hard water. September 28th, 2018: Pictured Corey Richmond identifying Macro-invertebrates with students
Green Career Day
District Staff Corey Richmond and Tori Welliver participated in the Green Career Day that was held at Sunfish Pond in Bradford County. Students in eighth grade from schools in the surrounding areas attended this event to learn more about careers in the environmental / outdoors field. Over 25 different career stations were present including; agronomy, forestry, landscaping, pond management, stream ecology, farming, natural gas development, game commission and other "green" careers. Events like this are great to show to students potential career paths that they may choose to take but also to get them thinking about their futures. September 22nd, 2018:
Lewis Lumber Day
On September 22nd the Sullivan County Conservation District and partners, held a "Lewis Lumber Day" at the Lewis Lumber Mill in Hillsgrove. Over 60 guests attended the event, various guest speakers presented throughout the morning and after lunch guests were able to tour the lumber mill. Marc Lewis spoke with the audience about the history of the mill while Marc Lewis talked about the different requirements for their logging operations. Aaron Lewis spoke with the audience about the Spotted Lanternfly and Tori Welliver presented on Timber Harvesting Regulations. The Northern Tier Hardwoods Association demonstrated chainsaw safety, Chad Gadsby DCNR Forester informed audience members of the services that he can provide and the Bradford Sullivan Landowners Associated reminded guests about their upcoming event on October 3rd. Thanks to everyone for coming out, make sure to sign up for our "Good Water, Good Coffee" event coming up on October 6th. September 13th, 2018:
2nd Annual Road Maintenance Workshop
On September 13th the Conservation District held their 2nd annual road maintenance workshop at the office in Dushore. Around 20 different municipality supervisors attended the workshop, each attendee received a FREE goody bag and lunch from Mad Bakers. There were four guest speakers who presented throughout the morning session. PA One Call representative Maria White discussed the PA One Call updates. Shaun McAdams with Trout Unlimited discussed stream crossing requirements and proper stream crossing designs with the attendees. The final speakers for the day were Justin Challenger with SCC and Wade Brown with the Center for Dirt & Gravel Roads, they discussed the program and showed some highlight projects to get municipalities thinking outside of the box. After lunch we reviled our new piece of equipment the Buffalo Turbine Debris Blower that ESM certified municipalities may use at no cost. It was a great workshop with many great questions asked, thank you to those who attended and we look forward to the workshop next year. August 24th, 2018:
District hosts emergency stream intervention program
On August 24th, the Sullivan County Conservation District in partnership with the Bradford County Conservation District held an emergency stream intervention program. Over twenty people were in attendance, ranging from various municipalities, DCNR and DEP. The program focused on how streams work, what can be done to help restore streams and how to properly work in streams. After the morning classroom session attendees were taken out into the field to look at a stream and discuss possible restoration techniques. With more training's like this being provided we can start to understand the dynamics of streams and how to prevent future problems. August 14th, 2018:Agricultural Planning Reimbursement Program extended for a second year!
This program is open to all agricultural operators/landowners in Pennsylvania's Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Through this program, framers can be reimbursed for fees paid to consultants to create manure management plans, nutrient management plans, and agriculture erosion & sediment control plans. Reimbursement funds are allocated based on impact to the Chesapeake Bay and are available on first come, first serve basis. The cover sheet explaining the program, landowner registration form and reimbursement form, details on how to apply and reimbursement levels can be found on the PA DEP website - enter search works "Agriculture Funding Program" TeamAg and Larson Design Group will again serve as county-level coordinators. Larson Design Group is the contact for Sullivan County landowners at 877-323-6603. Please refer questions about the program directly to them. Registration Deadline: April 01, 2019 Note: The limit is $6,000 per farming operations for program cycle (2018-2019). Planned acres reimbursed through this program last year (2017-2018) are not eligible to be reimbursed again this year. August 3rd, 2018PACD Announces Poster Contest Winners Pictured L-R; Corey Richmond, Bethany Boecker, Mary McClintock, Joe Stabryla and Dan Schaad
PACD announced the five state level winners of the National Association of Conservation Districts 2018 “Watersheds – Our Water, Our Home” poster contest. We are thrilled that Sullivan County's, Bethany Boecker has won the state level poster contest for grades 4th - 6th. Bethany's poster will now complete in the national contest!
The winners in each age category are: K–1st Grade: Aaliyah Basile, Carbon County 2nd–3rd Grade: Tvisha Jani, Delaware County 4th–6th Grade: Bethany Boecker, Sullivan County 7th–9th Grade: Eric Chen, Bucks County 10th–12th Grade: Paige Hollibaugh, Huntingdon County To promote education on the importance of healthy watersheds, students from kindergarten through twelfth grades entered posters conveying their thoughts and ideas through original artwork. Submissions were judged based on the entry’s conservation message, visual effectiveness, originality, and universal appeal. We would like to thank all of the participants in the contest for their interest and dedication to conservation, and look forward to seeing next year's posters. July 21st, 2018:Coal in the Headwaters: River of the Year Event
District Watershed Specialist, Corey Richmond, gave a presentation at St. Francis Hall in Mildred featuring coal mining in Sullivan County. Corey gave a background on coal mining in the county and what the Conservation District has done and is currently doing to erase its harmful effects. After the presentation concluded the public was invited to tour an active Acid Mine Draining Treatment site. It was a great turnout and was a wonderful way to celebrate the Loyalsock, the 2018 PA River of the Year. Future river of the year events can be found on our home page or at the Middle Susquehanna Riverkeepers website! June 20th, 2018:
2nd Movie Night Another Success
On Wednesday June 20th the conservation district held the second movie night, the topic covered was Honey Bees. Audience members learned about the importance of bees, the many threats that they face and also how to help the species. Guest speakers Shane & Amber Pedro were a great addition to the program and answered many of the audience's questions about beekeeping. The Pedro's also brought some of the local honey products to sell. It was a great event and we look forward to providing more movie nights in the future. If you have a certain topic you would like to see featured at one of our movie nights please let us know! June 18th, 2018: Wolf Administration Touts 550,000th Preserved Acre of Farmland
Pennsylvania is a national leader in farmland preservation, and today, Secretary of Agriculture Russell Redding announced that the state has hit a major milestone, preserving 550,000 acres of farmland in the commonwealth over the last three decades. “By investing our energy and resources in protecting Pennsylvania’s farmland, we are not simply investing in commodities; we’re investing in people and the future of agriculture and our ability to grow food,” said Sec. Redding. “Today’s landmark achievement represents a commitment to our agribusinesses, a commitment to our food system, a commitment to our communities, and a commitment to the future of the commonwealth.” The Pennsylvania Agricultural Conservation Easement Purchase Program is dedicated to slowing the loss of prime farmland to non-agricultural uses. Funding allows state, county, and local governments to purchase conservation easements from owners of quality farmland. Since the commonwealth’s program began in 1988, federal, state, county, and local governments have purchased permanent easements on 5,329 farms totaling 552,703 acres in 58 counties for agricultural production. Under Governor Wolf, funding for farmland preservation has increased more than 45 percent, or $12.5 million. Since taking office, the Wolf administration has preserved 597 farms totaling 50,039 acres of prime farmland across Pennsylvania. Today’s event, which celebrated the safeguarding of 550,000 acres, also recognized Lehigh County for its 30 years of participation in the program. Additionally, Secretary Redding presented the owners of Heidel Hollow Farms, Inc., with two bicentennial awards. The Bicentennial Farm Program was created in 2004 to recognize farms that have been in the same family for 200 years or more. To date, the Department of Agriculture has recognized 2,026 Century and 180 Bicentennial farms, representing 2,206 families dedicated to both their heritage and production agriculture. Purchasing easements is a critical investment in Pennsylvania’s robust agricultural industry, an investment that protects agriculture’s $135.7 billion total economic impact and ensures future food supply production for a growing population. Since the program’s inception, total county contributions have exceeded the half-billion-dollar mark, and state contributions have surpassed $1 billion. To learn more about Pennsylvania’s Farmland Preservation Program, visit agriculture.pa.gov. June 5th, 2018:
The conservation district had their picnic board meeting at the Eagles Mere Air and Auto Museum. It was a great experience and everyone had a good time. Thank you to everyone who made it a great day.
June 7th, 2018:
The Northern Tier Hardwoods Association held its Spring Meet and Greet at Promised Land State Park. Guests were treated to a barbecue cookout and had to opportunity to speak with board members about NTHA. It was a fun event that was held in a beautiful location, another Meet & Greet will be offered in the fall at our own World's End State Park.
May 30th,2018:
The annual Sullivan County 5th grade environmental took place on May 30th. Presenters from DCNR, DEP, 4-H, the game commission, northern tier solid waste, World's End State Park, the north-central Pennsylvania conservancy and the conservation district discussed various environmental topics. Stations included bird watching, fire safety, recycling, water quality issues and the movement of streams.
May 22nd-23rd:
2018 Pennsylvania State Envirothon Results
The 35th Pennsylvania Envirothon state competition was held at the Susquehanna University and Camp Mount Luther on Tuesday and Wednesday, May 22 and 23, 2018. High school students from 65 Pennsylvania counties participated in this year’s event. At the Envirothon, five-member teams participate in a series of field station tests that focus on five topic areas – soils and land use, aquatic ecology, forestry, wildlife, and environmental issues. The 2018 current environmental issues focused on The Benefits of Grassland and Pastureland Management. The teams also prepare and deliver oral presentations to panels of judges who evaluate each team on its problem-solving capabilities, oral presentation skills and recommendations to help solve the specific environmental challenge, which relates to the current environmental issue. Teams participating represent the best and the brightest of the thousands of high school teens who have competed in county Envirothon competitions sponsored by conservation districts from across the state and the Philadelphia Parks & Recreation. At the state level, the Envirothon is sponsored by Pennsylvania’s sixty-six county conservation districts, the State Conservation Commission, and the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts. The program is managed by a board of directors representing those sponsors. Technical expertise is provided by the following partners: PA Department of Agriculture, PA Department of Environmental Protection, PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, PA Game Commission, PA Fish and Boat Commission, and U.S.D.A. Natural Resources Conservation Service. Sponsors and partners of the 2018 Envirothon are PA Department of Environmental Protection, Pennsylvania Department of Education, Keystone Energy Efficiency Alliance (KEEA), Shell Oil Company, PPL, The Hershey Company, EQT Foundation, Weis, Chief Oil & Gas LLC, UGI Utilities, Smithfield, and National Conservation Foundation Envirothon. The 2018 Pennsylvania Envirothon champions will represent the Commonwealth at the 30th NCF-Envirothon competition planned for July 22 – 28 at Idaho State University, Pocatello, Idaho. More than 47 states, eight Canadian provinces, one Canadian territory, and two Chinese provinces have initiated Envirothon contests based on the program that was originally developed by Pennsylvania’s conservation districts. The 2018 Pennsylvania Envirothon champions, scoring 546 points of a possible 600, are from Carmichaels Area High School located in Greene County. The Greene County team earned the honor to represent Pennsylvania at the NCF-Envirothon international competition. Top 10 winners, with scores area as follows. First Place – Carmichaels Area High School, Greene County, score of 546 Second Place – Palmyra High School, Lebanon County, score of 523.67 Third Place – Penncrest High School, Delaware County, score of 512.67 Fourth Place – Bangor Area High School, Northampton County, score of 506 Fifth Place – MMI Preparatory School, Luzerne County, score of500.33 Sixth Place – York Home School Association, York County, score of 489.67 Seventh Place – Bradford Area High School, McKean County, score of 482 Eighth Place – Blue Mountain High School, Schuylkill County, score of479.67 Ninth Place – Conneaut Area High School, Crawford County, score of 473 Tenth Place – West Perry High School, Perry County, score of462 The Pennsylvania Envirothon awarded scholarships to the first through fifth place teams. The scholarships were sponsored by Pennsylvania’s County Conservation Districts and Shell Oil. Each of the top ten teams received a plaque and other prizes. The high station winners, with scores, include: Soils/Land Use – Palmyra High School, Lebanon County, with a score of 96; Aquatic Ecology – Penncrest High School, Delaware County, score of 93; Forestry – Carmichaels Area High School, Greene County, score of 97; Wildlife – Carmichaels Area High School, Greene County, score of 85; Current Issue – Conneaut Area High School, Crawford County, score of 90; Oral Presentation Component – Carmichaels Area High School, Greene County, with a score of 100. For more information on the Envirothon program, contact your county conservation district or contact the Pennsylvania Envirothon by phone (814) 310-3271, Email [email protected], or visit the website at www.envirothonpa.org. May 14th, 2018:
For the past 25 years students from grades 4th-6th have participated in the Sullivan County Conservation Poster Contest. The Contest is sponsored by the Sullivan County Conservation District, Dushore Borough, and White Ash Land Association. Winning entries received prizes of stainless steel water bottles, t-shirts, plaques, colored pencils, ribbons. The overall winning entry also received a personalized handbag. Congratulations to all the students that entered posters and best of luck to the overall winner in the PACD State Poster Contest.
April 21st, 2018The Conservation District along with Dushore Borough gathered on April 21st to celebrate Earth Day. The district and borough shared the cost of 6 semi-dwarf apple trees to be planted along Marsh Run to help with thermal pollution and to provide fruit to the community. Local children from grades 7-9 attended the tree planting and learned about the many benefits of planting trees along the streams.
April 4th, 2018:
The meeting for the last chance for pesticide credits was held on April 4th at the Ag Resources Center in Dushore. The event drew in about 25 members of the community and surrounding areas. Dwane Miller from Penn State Extension, Schuylkill presented. He talked to participants about pesticide drift management and shared a personal story of his own experience with pesticide drift. What's new in weed control was also discussed at this meeting. Some new problematic weeds may make their way into our county, Palmer and Waterhemp. Be on the look out for these weeds and contact Penn State Extension immediately if you think you have found them on your property. Corey Richmond also spoke at the meeting and mentioned that the high boy interseeder is available to the local farmers.
March 13th, 2018:
Looking for something to do this spring? Volunteer to help with the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission in their trout stocking this year. For 2018 trout stocking locations and times CLICK HERE.
March 6th, 2018:
There was a great turnout for our third “Spotted Lanternfly Informational Meeting” presented by Northern Tier Hardwoods Association (NTHA) program manager, Sarah Hall-Bagdonas, in Wysox. The NTHA is currently in the process of scheduling more training opportunities throughout the region, please check their website at nthardwoods.org for all of their upcoming events. Thanks again to all of the concerned forest product industry members and citizens who have attended these important meetings! More to come...
February 20th, 2018:
February 8th, 2018:
District Receives Grant funds to support Envirothon
The First Community Foundation Partnership (FCFP) has recently provided its annual grants and through the generosity of the original Loyalsock Creek Watershed both Sullivan and Lycoming County Conservation Districts were each awarded $762 for expenses with their county Envirothon programs and competition. The original Loyalsock Creek Watershed Association had continued funding natural resource education through interest in their financial accounts. As the members got older, the choice was made to put the money into a foundation and establish where funds were to be dispersed on an annual basis. Through the foundation, the amount of the grants awarded has grown and we are appreciative of receiving these funds that allow us to provide a better Envirothon experience to high school students. The Loyalsock Creek Watershed Association fund is in memory of Timothy Leach, Phil Kretchman, and Gordon and Georgene Wurster. January 31st, 2018: Francis Moll conducts the swearing in of Joanne Day, Richard Ryan and Wylie Norton as Sullivan County Conservation District board members.
On January 9th, 2018 at the Sullivan County Conservation District board meeting, three directors were sworn in to serve on the board. Wylie Norton, Commissioner Director; Joanne Day, Public Director; and Richard Ryan, Farmer Director are shown taking the oath of office, read by Francis Moll, Chairman. Wylie has served on the board since 2012, Joanne since 2016, and Richard since 2006. All three were also elected as officers. Wylie is Vice-Chair, Joanne is Treasurer, and Richard is Secretary. We are proud to have them on the board and greatly appreciate their dedicated service. Directors are appointed by the county commissioners from nominations submitted by approved nominating organizations. Conservation district boards consist of farmer members, public members, and a member of the county governing body. Duties of the board include establishing and implementing programs to protect and conserve soil, water, and other renewable natural resources on local, non-federal land.
|
