NPDES Program - National Pollution Discharge Elimination System Program (NPDES) requires construction activities to obtain
a permit depending on the acreage involved. Developers and landowners who participate in the NPDES program have an increased
awareness of compliance for permitting, reduce the potential for non point source pollution and lower compliance costs. The
public benefits with improved water quality, lower water treatment costs and increased recreational opportunities.
Chapter 102 /
Earth Disturbance Activities - Rules and regulations, Pennsylvania Code, Title 25, Chapter 102, have been developed to minimize
the impacts from earthmoving activities while allowing for continued development and use of the land. These regulations, commonly
referred to as erosion and sediment pollution control (E&S) regulations, are developed and implemented by the PA Department of
Environmental Protection (DEP). The Conservation District administers the E&S program which includes helping developers
and landowners with earth disturbance activities and installing and maintaining Best Management Practices (BMP's). Developers
following this program have been shown to minimize erosion, remain in compliance with state and federal regulations and will assist
them to avoid non-compliance fines. The public benefits by improved water quality downstream and in local watershed, decreased
water treatment costs, and decreased flood plain disturbance.
Chapter 105 - Any work in or near "Waters of the Commonwealth"
(streams, lake or wetland) is regulated by the State of Pennsylvania und Chapter 105 of DEP's Rules and Regulations. The Conservation
District assists participants who conduct activities in and around streams, wetlands and other bodies of water comply with regulations
to protect these water ways. In addition to the State's permitting requirements, there is also a Federal permit, administered
by the Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE), which is often required before working in streams and wetlands. Chapter 105 investments
reduces the liklihood of fines from state or federal agencies, and the public benefits from improved water quality and increased public
safety by potentially reducing the threat of flooding.
Dirt & Gravel; Townships and Municipalities - The Conservation District
administers this program which seeks to improve local water quality by reducing sediment loss from local dirt and gravel roads.
Local municipalities may apply for funds for road projects and are encouraged to adopt methods for managing dirt and gravel roads
that reduce erosion. Townships and municipalities who participate in the Dirt and Gravel Road Maintenance Program learn how
to maintain roads using environmentally sensitive practices to reduce erosion and build more stable roads for less cost. The
public benefits from improved roads, less road maintenance, and reduced sediment in the streams, which results in better water quality
and reduced water treatment costs.
Ag Tech Assistance (ACT) Program to the Community - The ACT Program educates landowners of
the benefits of nutrient management, conservation planning, and best management practice to improve profitablity. The Conservation
District ACT Technician administers this program. The public benefits include reduced water treatment costs, reduced costs for
community services and increases in open space.
Nutrient Management Program - The Conservation District's Nutrient Management
Specialist helps educate and provide assistance to local agricultural producers through the Nutrient Management Program. This
program has helped farmers by balancing nutrient needs through manure and soil testing. The program provides
technical assistance to agricultural operations, increases profits and improves soil quality. The public benefits from improved
consumptive and recreational water usage and decreases the overall costs of water treatment.
Envirothons - The District's
Envirothon program provides youth with information that helps to increase their awareness of their environment and environmental
issues. They learn teamwork and skills that prepare them for college. The public benefits from youth who are better educated
decision makers when they become adults. The District also holds various other environmental education workshops throughout
the year for adults and youth.
Floodplain Monitoring - Muncipal officials who participate in the Floodplain Monitoring Program
learn how to write and implement ordinances to limit building in floodplain areas. Landowners benefit by reducing flood expenses,
fewer damages and lower costs of flood insurance.
Grant Programs - When Conservation Districts acquire state and federal grants,
necessary projects are completed that would otherwise go unfunded. The public benefits from additional county financial resources
to hold educational workshops, trainings or to complete conservation projects that would not be possible otherwise.
What are the Conservation District's Programs