Boroughs to the Bay...and Beyond 2008
and the web recap of our series from 2006 & 2007

Listen to Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond on Leaders & Lawmakers

Listen to Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond on Roundtable
 

State group advocating for proper stormwater management

UNDATED – The over 2,500 municipalities in Pennsylvania are all responsible for their own stormwater management.  How is our region is doing with stormwater plans and issues?  Brian Hill is the President and CEO of the Pennsylvania Environment Council, a group that works with organizations, local and state officials and citizens to deal with environmental concerns.  Hill says stormwater issues that aren’t addressed can become a big issue.  Hill says locally, they are working with Montour County to develop a stormwater management plan that engages citizens and they are also looking to improving statewide policy as well.  

Hill says a good plan for stormwater management includes knowing what kind of flows to expect, how to address them and how to minimize their impact on the community.  He says there also must be legislative solutions.

Hill says many municipalities are in the process of upgrading their stormwater systems.  In addition to stormwater management, the PA Environmental Council also deals with energy conservation, climate chance and creating sustainable communities.  They work with numerous state organizations including the Pennsylvania Organization for Watersheds Rivers and the Environmental Advisory Council Network. (Sara Bartlett)

How land reclamation benefits both urban and suburban areas

SUNBURY –  Reclamation of land affected by acid mine drainage can alleviate numerous problems and get land back to the way it looked prior to mining.  Robert Hughes is the Executive Director of the Eastern Pennsylvania Coalition for Abandon Mine Reclamation, known as EPCMAR, and says they have been working with community organizations in the area to fix old stripping pits and re-vegetate sites.  Hughes says doing this could be a huge benefit for urban areas, by helping economic development and creating sewer or water lines.

Stream bank stabilization at Little Shamokin Creek

SHAMOKIN – Over a dozen people from numerous environmental groups around the Valley got together earlier this month in an effort to stabilize the stream bank along Little Shamokin Creek. The creek is Sunbury’s main supply of water.  Jackie Harner is a Watershed Specialist for the Northumberland County Conservation District and says this site was a priority because the creek was eroding the bank, which was close to Comfort Road in Rockefeller Township.  Installing a log deflector, which they did at a number of spots along the creek, would improve fish habitat and water quality, remove sediment and stabilize the bank, therefore saving the road.

Harner worked with the Little Shamokin Creek Watershed Association to stabilize six spots along the waterway.  She explains that the log defectors are angled upstream and re-channel the water into the middle of the stream, rather than having it hit the bank.  President of the Watershed Association Bob Herman says they worked hard and had a lot of help with the process. 

Listen to part of Mark Lawrence's interview with Jackie Harner here

Some of the big institutions fighting for the river and the bay, on Roundtable

SUNBURY – This weekend on our Roundtable program we continue our annual series of stories on the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay. Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond is the award-winning, year-round series which looks at the issues facing these critical watersheds, and focuses on solutions.

This weekend, three major institutions helping The Valley environment, are represented on the show. The North Central Pennsylvania Conservancy, the Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds and the SEDA-COG Community Resource Center.

We discuss the mission of these groups, their accomplishment and their ongoing projects. We talk about the watershed’s relationship to human health, the Greenway initiative and the ‘State of the River’ in our region. You can hear Roundtable at www.wkok.com.

An update on the future of the Marina building at the Shikellamy State Park

SUNBURY – The plan is to turn the Shikellamy Marina building into an environmental research and education center, however, what exactly will the project entail? The Susquehanna River Heartland Coalition for Environmental Studies is moving forward with plans for the marina building.

Skip Wieder is convener for the group and says the building will be expanded from the back toward the parking lot side of the building. This will allow for exhibit space, research space and also classrooms. The project has the backing and involvement of several groups, including the Chesapeake Bay Commission and the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

Additionally, six local colleges and universities, Trout Unlimited and other local watershed organizations are part of the SRHCES. Wieder was a guest this week on our sister station, WKOK’s live talk show, “On the Mark”. You can listen to the program online here. You can see more about the SRHCES at www.srhces.org. (Ali Stevens)

National recognition for Susquehanna River Trail

HARRISBURG – A portion of the Susquehanna River has recently joined the prestigious ranks of the National Recreation Trails Network. A special event was held Tuesday in Harrisburg to recognize the accomplishment.

David Lange, Northeast regional manager for the National Park Service Rivers and Trails Program says the middle section of the Susquehanna River Trail flows from Sunbury through Harrisburg and it was one of three that were added to the list from Pennsylvania. He says the resources of the river are tremendous and it’s probably one of the finest rivers in the state.

Lange says characteristics such as the way the river cuts through the water gaps, its bass fishing and its extensive network of islands that have been created over time, all combine to make for a wonderful outdoor experience.

Lange says there are only a handful of other rivers throughout the country that have water trails, which have received such unique recognition. Secretary of Interior, Dirk Kempthorne, made the announcement in the spirit of the 40th anniversary of the National Trails System and to celebrate National Trails Day.

The Susquehanna River Water Trail was one of 24 trails, which were designated throughout 16 states to the network. You can hear more about the Susquehanna River and how it affects our region as we continue our Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond Series. For a look at past features, go to www.wkok.com. (Sara Lauver)

Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond looks at an emerging mercury study

UNDATED – It will soon be easier to collect mercury samples from waterways for a Susquehanna University professor and his team. Head of the Chemistry Department at SU, Chris Janzen, says a new mercury analysis machine was recently purchased.

He says the benefit is that preparation is minimal; samples can go directly into the instrument. Plus, it is less costly to do so. Janzen says the machine is automated, so samples can be loaded up and run by themselves.

He says a benefit of the new machine will give testers the ability to test a number of samples including fish, mammal, soil and more. Janzen has been working on mercury analysis in Shamokin Creek, as well as looking at the effects of acid mine drainage there. Most recently, Janzen has been looking at metal concentrations above and below the mitigation site to see what sort of impact that is having. (Sara Bartlett)

Roundtable helps us continue our series: Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond…

SUNBURY – This weekend on our Roundtable program, we continue our series of stories entitled Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond. We air the first of two Roundtable programs focusing on the Susquehanna River, the Chesapeake Bay and how we all are affected by these waterways.

Our panelists include Mike Bilger, of Eco-Analysts Incorporated, and he tells us some of the issues facing watersheds include agricultural impact, development pressure, and lately, the Penn Valley Airport devastation, where riparian buffer’s were removed, allowing soil to erode into the Penns Creek. One road has been closed in that area because of the problem.

The Roundtable program also features professor Steve Rier of Bloomsburg University, Dr. Jack Holt of Susquehanna University and Ben Hayes of the Bucknell University Environmental Center. You can hear all of the Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond stories at www.wkok.com. You can hear Roundtable at www.wkok.com.

Wednesday, July, 9, 2008

Sunbury Wetlands

SUNBURY – It’s often overlooked and maybe some don’t even know about the wetlands in Sunbury near Race and 6th Streets.  And, that is what we’re talking about on today’s segment of Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond.  Ben Hayes is the Susquehanna River Coordinator at the Bucknell University Environmental Center.  He says it is a naturally occurring wetland, with the town of Sunbury built around it.  But, it has suffered from urban neglect including much pollution in and around it.

Recently, the water was drained from the wetlands, and the outlet that ponded back groundwater and surface water, which maintained amphibians and plants, disappeared.  This caused concern among many and also prompted the Susquehanna River Heartland Coalition and other local groups to begin maintaining and restoring it.  Hayes says students have begun to do research on the water.  Also, if the wetlands were restored it could create a great community outreach for Sunbury, according to Hayes. 

The wetlands were purchased by Sunbury architect Stan Seiple, who also started the Sunbury Wetlands Association.  We’ll learn more about the wetlands as we continue our Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond series, and you can hear more from Ben Hayes on our Roundtable program Sunday at 9:00a.m. (Sara Bartlett)

Monday, July 7, 2008

Part Two: Susquehanna River Basin Commission:
The state of the River

UNDATED – The state of the Susquehanna River is improving.  That’s the opinion of Susquehanna River Basin Commission Executive Director Paul Swartz, who also admits that many parts of the watershed still need some improvement, including the West Branch, which are degraded by abandon mines.  Swartz says the good news is that they have been seeing consistently improving long-term trends regarding the concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus and suspended sediments in the water. 

As the Commission continues to monitor the quality of the water, Swartz says the River Basin, because it is so water-rich is getting a lot of attention for energy production projects.  The most recent is gas exploration, where companies collect millions of gallons of water and eject it to create fractures in rocks where gas can then be extracted.  Swartz says doing this in small streams is risky, and operations have the potential to use more water than should be withdrawn.

Swartz says this summer they have been working with over 50 different companies who are undertaking these projects; to make sure they understand the Commission’s requirements.  (Sara Bartlett)

                    Listen to Paul Swartz's full interview on Leaders & Lawmakers

Friday, July 4, 2008

Part One with Susquehanna River Basin Commission:
Who are they and what do they do?

UNDATED – As we begin our Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond segments, we first talk about the Susquehanna River Basin Commission.  Their job?  To safeguard the watershed.  This means, among other things, protecting streams and aquatic resources, monitoring water quality and watching out for floods and droughts.  Executive Director of the SRBC, Paul Swartz, says it also means they make sure that those who need water get enough of it, and no one gets too much.  He says they want to make sure during dry times that the water is evenly split.  He says he doesn’t want a power or energy producer having water, when a farmer doesn’t.

And, why should we worry about water?  Swartz says because it is a finite resource.  He says it must be planned for and managed for the long term, and we should conserve water not just during drought times.

The SRBC continues to manage resources so there is enough water for now and for generations to come.  The Commission, which consists of a staff of less than 40 people and operates with a budget of about $5 million, takes care of the over 27,500 square miles of the Watershed from Cooperstown, New York to the Chesapeake Bay.  (Sara Bartlett)  

Listen to Paul Swartz's full interview on Leaders & Lawmakers

Thursday, June 26, 2008

Progress being made on Shikellamy Marina

SUNBURY – Plans are moving forward at the Shikellamy Marina.  Skip Weider of the Susquehanna River Heartland Coalition says the group recently met with members from the PA Department of Conservation and Natural Resources and the state is now in the process of requesting bids from architectural firms who will do work on an environmental research and education center at the Shikellamy Marina.  Weider says it will most likely be a few months before the contract is awarded to a bidding architectural firm. 

Once a firm is chosen, they will work with a group from the College Coalition, which includes five scientists who will help determine what the building will be used for.  From there, construction is slated to begin in early or mid 2009.  Weider says the Coalition is pleased to have progress being made on the Shikellamy Marina because it shows the growing number of organizations that are active in environmental projects that affect the Susquehanna River. (Sara Bartlett)

Tuesday, January 15, 2008

Two years of a three-year study on Penns Creek are complete

SELINSGROVE – Another report on monitoring and assessment of Penns Creek has been completed by a Susquehanna University professor.  Dr. Jack Holt is Director of the Ecology Program at SU and a professor of biology.  He is more than halfway finished a three-year study on Penns Creek and the future of the watershed.  Holt started the project last year by monitoring the creek in 12 different spots. 

In the second year of the study, samples were collected and a habitat analysis was completed by Mike Bilger of EcoAnalysts Inc.  So far, Holt says the creek is in good shape and they have a good foundation to work on.  The problem area is to prevent sediment runoff with boundaries for the creek.  You can hear the report from Dr. Holt, Mike Bilger and SU student Nate Moore at the Penn’s Creek Adult Resource Center on Thursday at 7p.m.  The event is sponsored by the Lower Penns Creek Watershed Association, who hopes to use the information from the study in the future for the benefit of Penns Creek. 
                                    Listen to Ali Stevens' story with Dr. Holt

Monday, January 7, 2008

Can drugs hurt fish?

SUNBURY – Could the drugs that humans take to aid in their health actually be lethal to fish and other aquatic life?  Although it’s not a topic brought up very often, it is part of the study known as ecotoxicology.  Dr. Brian Mangan, Director of Environmental Studies at Kings College in Wilkes-Barre, says the EPA found that some pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) have emerged as a pollutant source in waterways and are not being treated by sewage treatment.

According to EPA, humans can contribute PPCPs to the environment when medication is passed out of the body, when externally-applied drugs are washed down the shower or sink drain or when unused or expired medications are placed in the trash.  Mangan and his students have been working for about a year and a half with antidepressants to find out if they have any effect on fish.  He says they have found that the three medications they tested do change the behaviors of aquatic life.

Mangan says the ecotoxicology studies have changed from the past, as they used to test drugs on fish to see if it was fatal.  Now, they test the sub-lethal effects and behavioral changes.  The EPA says the number of PPCPs are growing, with over 100 of individual products identified in environmental samples and drinking water in 2007.  They say, although the study is rather new, the advances in technology will improve the ability to detect chemicals and find out what type of effect they have on human and environmental health.

Listen to Mark Lawrence's full interview with Dr. Mangan about this topic

Thursday, January 4, 2008

Effects of Mercury in Susquehanna River

Mercury is not only a threat to the river and its inhabitants, it can also be dangerous to people.  Dr. Brian Mangan, Director of Environmental Studies at Kings College in Wilkes-Barre, says mercury is a byproduct of burning coal and once it is in the environment, can concentrate itself into the food chain.  Mangan says the destructive effect of mercury was first discovered at Minamata Bay in Japan during the 1950’s.  Mangan says the damage done by mercury can be very hard to reverse, as it can find its way into nerve tissue in both humans and other organisms. 

Mangan says there are many things that can be done to remove these pollutants from rivers and streams, but it ultimately comes to costs verse benefits.  He says coal is a very cheap source of energy and a company may not be able to afford the expensive means of removing mercury. 

Pennsylvania has recently adopted a stance to no longer allow the trading of mercury emissions. Mangan says the Susquehanna River Heartland Coalition is working with the Department of Environmental Protection and the Fish and Boat Commission to get an assessment of where the area stands now in regards to mercury.   

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

How coal mining can be helpful to the environment

SUNBURY – Some people may think that coal mining is a polluter to the environment, but it’s the opposite, says Executive Director of the Pennsylvania Anthracite Council, Duane Feagley.  In this addition of our Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond segment, we take a look at the positive aspects of mining for the environment.  Feagley says the process of mining has radically changed over the past 30 years.

Feagley says as long as miners continue this active reclamation of the land, there will be a positive effect on the environment.  He says coal mining plays a major part in Northumberland County, as the county still controls quite a few coal lands in the area that are leased to miners and help provide income.  You can read this and other Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond segments online at wkok.com.

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

Bad species invading the river

WILKES-BARRE – A very invasive species of mussel is showing up in our river. This week on our Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond segment, we take a look at another dangerous species invading the Susquehanna River. They are called Zebra Mussels, and have been officially found in the North Branch of the River, mainly near Hallstead in Susquehanna County.

Dr. Brian Mangan, Director of Environmental Studies at Kings College in Wilkes-Barre, has been monitoring Zebra Mussels in the Susquehanna River for the past 20 years, and says the way they make their living from filter feeding can be dangerous to the ecology of the river. Mangan previously spoke about another invasive species called the Asian clam, which has also been found in the main stem and the West Branch of the river.

These two species of mollusks, plus harmful human activity, such as the building of dams and the dumping of hazardous materials have put the Susquehanna on a list of endangered rivers for the past 10 years. Mangan says the community must be vigilant when these issues come to the forefront. (Sara Bartlett)

Monday, October 1, 2007

State of the River report released

SUNBURY – A comprehensive annual report of the Susquehanna River is now available.  Presented by the Susquehanna River Heartland Coalition for Environmental Studies, the report summarizes projects and activities dealing with the river that are currently underway in our area.  Executive Director of the North Central PA Conservancy, Renee Carey says it also focuses on the big environmental issue of abandoned mine drainage.

Intern for the North Central PA Conservancy, Molly Clay, did most of the writing.

The report includes a list of all of the county conservation districts in the region, so if people want to get involved at the local level, they can contact their own watershed specialist.  You can read the annual report here.

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Local conservation districts are doing soil testing

SUNBURY – We have been talking lately on Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond, about what you can do to help the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay watersheds. The question now is, where to get more information.

The local conservation district office is one of the places. Shannon Burkland of the Union County Conservation district told us last week that they spend a lot of time on education. Here she says, they are the ‘go-to’ place for all kinds of funding and assistance.

You can contact the Union County Conservation District at 524-3860, or contact the conservation district office in your county. The conservation district’s hold regular monthly meetings and offer a variety of services.

They have a staff dedicated to helping all residents and property owners with environmental and conservation questions. Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond is our series of stories dedicated to the local watersheds and what individuals can do to help our environment.

Friday, August 31, 2007

The time is now to get involved

SUNBURY - Now is the time for you to help…save the bay…and the watershed in your backyard. That's the call for action issued by our guests on Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond. In the latest segment, Dr. Mel Zimmerman, a professor of biology at Lycoming College, the head of their Clean Water Institute, and chair of the Susquehanna River Heartland Coalition for Environment Studies, tells us, there are plenty of opportunities coming up. 

Go to www.wkok.com for links to the upcoming symposium and the other agencies working to help the river. From Trout Unlimited, Rebecca Dunlap tells us, we should all get informed and get involved. 

All of the Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond stories and associated links are posted at www.wkok.com. Our stories focus on the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay and what you can do to help these waterways.

Wednesday, August 29, 2007

Defining your watershed…on Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond

SUNBURY – Today we continue our series of reports, Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond. We’ve been talking about the West Branch Valley and various ‘watersheds’ around here, but the question arises, what is a watershed? Dr. Mel Zimmerman, a senior professor of biology at Lycoming College and the head of their Clean Water Institute, tells us, it starts in your back yard:

So, we are all in various watersheds. We are in our local watershed, typically defined by the nearest significant creek or stream. We are in the Susquehanna Valley watershed and we are in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed. Zimmerman said that is why there are so many local watershed groups—each serves a narrow slice of our regional environment and works to affect positive change on that waterway. You can find out about the local watershed near you, but going to DEP’s main website…you can see that link, at www.wkok.com.

Thursday, August 16, 2007

The West Branch is getting lots of help from DEP

SUNBURY – There are numerous local watershed groups helping to clean up the West Branch of the Susquehanna River…and the government is there to help. In our Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond segment today, we find out that the state Department of Environmental Resources is a big ally of watershed groups. Mike Smith, a DEP mining manager says the department is hard at work regulating the active mining industry. Hear his comment here.

The efforts have paid off…the river is greatly improved in the Lock Haven area. Above the community of Clearfield, the river is much better now. Also, the Babb’s Creek and Pine Creek projects were big success stories.

Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond is WKOK’s effort to focus attention on the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay, the critical issues facing these watersheds, and identifying solutions.

Saturday and Sunday, August 11 & 12, 2007

More information about the West Branch restoration effort

SUNBURY – The West Branch of the Susquehanna is the smaller of the two branches but is getting far more attention when it comes to restoration and conservation. Our Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond story today looks further into the efforts of Trout Unlimited.

T-U has identified the West Branch of the Susquehanna River, as a restorable trout fishery, Amy Wolfe, is the the Director of Abandoned Mine Programs at T-U says, there is just one problem.

Trout Unlimited is leading the West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition, a group of local watershed groups, and local businesses who are promoting the restoration efforts on the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. The coalition is concerned about Acid Mine Drainage from mines, which pollute the Deer and Moshannon Creeks; both of those streams feed into the West Branch and are polling them.

They are also helping other groups. Lycoming College is helping with education and outreach, doing monitoring of the West Branch, and they hope to include the West Branch information in the State of the River report coming out this fall.

Friday, August 10, 2007

A thriving group busy in the West Branch 

SUNBURY – Our Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond story today deals with trout in the river. There are no trout in the Susquehanna River today, but not so years ago. Trout Unlimited has identified the West Branch of the Susquehanna River, as a restorable trout fishery, and so they have devoted countless hours on this part of Pennsylvania.

Amy Wolfe, is the Director of Abandoned Mine Programs at T-U and says the coalition is concerned about Acid Mine Drainage from mines, which pollute the Deer Creek and Moshannon Creek; both of those streams feed into the West Branch and are polluting them badly. Hear her comment here.

Trout Unlimited is now serving as the catalyst of the West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition, a group of local watershed groups, and local businesses who are promoting the restoration efforts on the West Branch of the Susquehanna River.

They are also helping other groups. Lycoming College is helping with education and outreach, doing monitoring of the West Branch, and they hope to include the West Branch information in the State of the River report coming out this fall.

We’ll hear more about their efforts in our next report. Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond is WKOK’s focus on the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay watersheds.

Wednesday, August 8, 2007

The latest on a toad issue

SUNBURY – We’ve been telling you about a very special tenant of the Milton Area Industrial Park…but its not a business, it’s the rare Eastern Spadefoot Toad. There is an update on its fate. At a recent meeting of the Susquehanna River Heartland Coalition for Environmental Studies, Renee Carey of the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy talked about a compromise in the works.

Carey said the Milton Area Industrial Development Authority is interested in developing the site, but they don’t want to, and can’t threaten the endangered species that is the Eastern Spadefoot Toad. The toads turned up on the site, and is one of only two or three places in Pennsylvania where the toad is found. It lives in wet areas, stays buried and emerges rarely.

Tuesday, August 7, 2007

How a clam is changing the river

SUNBURY – Our Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond series today looks at a new invasive species that is spreading up the Susquehanna River. Brian Mangan, the director of the environmental program at Kings College, told us about an invasive species they are concerned about.

The problem with the clam can be, what do they eat that used to be consumed by other species, and what happens to their waste—what does that do to our drought affected river. More about the Asian clam in the Susquehanna…in our next segment of Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond.

Monday, August 3, 2007

More on a clam, changing the river

SUNBURY – Our Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond series today looks another look at a new invasive species of clam, which is turning up in the main stem, and the North Branch of the Susquehanna River. Brian Mangan, the director of the environmental program at Kings College, told us the impact of the increasingly pervasive species:

The Asian clam is the corbicula fluminea and has been in the main stem of the river for some time and is only recently turning up in the North Branch. Its effect on the Chesapeake Bay is not really known. But it is new to central Pennsylvania and is being spread in the river by boaters and anglers. More about the river and bay, in our transcripts of Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond. Read more at www.wkok.com.

Friday, August 3, 2007

A 'Willing to Pay' survey is underway on the West Branch

SUNBURY – The Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond segment today continues our conversation with a specialized consultant who is helping Trout Unlimited. T-U has focused a lot of its attention on the West Branch of the Susquehanna River.

They have asked Evan Hansen of the firm, Downstream Strategies LLC, to quantify how much a clean up of the West Branch would pay off in the long run. But first, the work must be paid for now, and Hansen said that’s where one of their latest surveys comes in. 

The West Branch of the Susquehanna River is impaired by high volumes of Acid Mine Drainage, coming primarily from tributaries in Clearfield and Centre Counties. There are numerous efforts underway to clean up and stop these discharges.

Trout Unlimited is hoping that their very specific plans and numbers will help them leverage additional state and federal dollars to help with the clean up. Hansen told us in our last report, that restoring the West Branch would be a huge economic benefit for the existing and future residents of the West Branch valley..

Thursday, August 2, 2007

Economic development on the West Branch

SUNBURY – So far this year, our Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond segments have focused on the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. We continue that focus today and we talk to a very specialized consultant, who is helping Trout Unlimited. He is looking at the economic development potential that goes with cleaning up the West Branch of the river.

Evan Hansen is with the company, Downstream Strategies LLC said initially, there is an economic boost when the stream or river undergoes a complete assessment, then remediation efforts can be in the millions of dollars, then recreation opportunities follow, and property values rise.

Next, he’ll describe how a survey of people, will help determine ‘how much people will pay, to fund a clean up of the West Branch of the Susquehanna River. Boroughs to the Bay and Beyond is WKOK’s examination of the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay watersheds. We look at issues facing these waterways—and what is being done to help. You can hear our interview here.

Monday, July 30, 2007

Chesapeake Bay Commission talking 'REAP'

SUNBURY – In today’s segment of Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond, we find more out about the REAP bill that was passed in Harrisburg recently. We’ve spoken to the non-profit organization that is the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, but now we talk to the Chesapeake Bay Commission (which is a governmental agency).

Marel Raub, the Pennsylvania Director of the Chesapeake Bay Commission said REAP should help farmers. Farmers will able to reduce phosphorus, nitrogen and other runoff, and reduce sediment erosion. REAP provides tax credits to farmers who implement ‘best management practices.’ Hear more here.

The goal is to help reduce nutrient and sediment pollution from farms. Raub said the goal of the effort is to help clean up the Chesapeake Bay. More about this clean-up effort, in our next segment of Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond.

Friday/Saturday, July 27 & 28, 2007

A State of the River report is being compiled

LEWISBURG – The Susquehanna River Heartland Coalition for Environmental Studies is overseeing the compilation of a first ever, State of the River report for our region. Renee Carey, of the Northcentral Pennsylvania Conservancy, told us they are working with a student at Bucknell, and hope to pull together all the various studies, assessments and clean-up efforts, into one State of the River report. Here is her full interview.

Carey said the conservancy is serving as the ‘organizational conduit for study’ because the conservancy is already the coordinator of the Lower West Branch Susquehanna River Conservation Plan and is a partnership in the Susquehanna Greenway Partnership. Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond is our continuing look at the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay.

Sunday/Monday,  July, 22 & 23, 2007

The head of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation was on the WKOK newsline

SUNBURY – The head of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation was on the WKOK newsline recently, talking about the reality of global warming and its affect on watersheds in this part of the world. Will Baker also gave us a critique of our national and state lawmakers, and their actions protecting the environment. He said their results are mixed, but REAP was a victory.

Now, with that victory in mind, Will Baker said it is time for federal and state lawmakers to fight even harder for the Susquehanna River and the bay…he says the foundation wants politicians to stop thinking about a clean environment as ‘optional.’ He said the CBF will continue pushing for action on these key critical environmental and conservation issues. As for the future?

The foundation is calling for a reduction in greenhouse gases; the use of more energy efficient light bulbs, more fuel-efficient cars and a reduction in long commutes. He says, the effects of the subtle changes in our warming environment are already being felt, with the bay level rising and strong storms having a greater impact on the water and land.

You can read more at the foundation’s main website, www.cbf.org. You can read our Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond stories, and hear our interviews here. Next on Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond…thinking of conservation as economic development…on WKOK.

Thursday, July, 19, 2007

Climate change poses threat to Chesapeake, group says

ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) – The Chesapeake Bay faces more problems than just pollution and development. In our Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond segment, we find out today, that the Chesapeake Bay Foundation released a report today that says the bay is increasingly threatened by global warming. Will Baker, the president of the foundation told us on the newsline, what’s at stake.

Baker said that rising temperatures are already stressing brook trout here in Pennsylvania and striped bass in the bay, and are responsible for a massive die-off of eel grass in the lower bay two years ago. As for what we can do.

Will Baker, of the says the bay could rise three to four feet by the end of the century. The Foundation is expected to call for reductions in greenhouse gases to help prevent more damage.

Wednesday, July, 18, 2007

Big news for folks concerned about the Susquehanna River and Bay

HARRISBURG - The state budget that was passed this week has some good news for farmers-and for people interested in preserving and enhancing the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay. The state house and senate passed, and the governor signed, the Resource Enhancement and Protection Act. It is known as REAP, and will allow farmers to receive tax credits, or a reduction in their taxes, if they install 'state of the art' conservation practices. Matthew Ehrhart of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation explains the process. Listen here.

The goal is give farmers help as they try to reduce water pollution. Improvements on the farm can include barnyard enhancements, stream buffers, fencing and developing other measures, which will help insure clean water and soil. REAP passed in Pennsylvania with the first-year cap of $10 million. That means the state could lose no more than $10 million in revenue because of the tax incentives given to farmers. More tomorrow, on Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond…on WKOK.

Tuesday, July 17, 2007

Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond…another look…west

SUNBURY - We've focused on the most impaired branch of the Susquehanna River so far, as we continue our Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond segments. At a recent meeting of the Susquehanna River Heartland Coalition for Environmental Studies, a representative of the Susquehanna River Basin Commission gave a 'state of the river' report for the west branch. Listen here.

Tom Clark from the river basin commissioner said, it may surprise folks that the West Branch is the most impaired, but it has more miles of dead streams than the North Branch (or the main stem of the Susquehanna River. That means it has more streams-compromised-or dead-because of Abandoned Mine Drainage. It also has more efforts underway to clean up these problems.

Monday, July 16, 2007

The Western Pennsylvania Watershed Program is thriving

SUNBURY – Today, in our next segment of Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond, we find out more about the many efforts to clean-up the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and clean-up other waterways in the western half of the state.

The Western Pennsylvania Watershed Program is thriving, under the direction administrator, John Dawes. Our reporter Mark Lawrence conducted a short interview with Dawes, who told us, one of their primary duties, is to use donated dollars, to ‘draw down’ federal and state matching dollars. You can hear that interview here. You can hear more Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond segments, in future newscasts, on Newsradio 1070 WKOK, and posted at WKOK.com.

Thursday, July 12, 2007

Cleaning up the pollution on the West Branch of the Susquehanna

SUNBURY – This weekend, on our Roundtable program, we launch our second year of focus on the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay. Boroughs to the Bay…and Beyond is the name of our series this year. On Roundtable, we find out about the West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Coalition. Trout Unlimited is a main player in this group, and Amy Wolfe of Trout Unlimited tells us, the big job of the coalition.

She said their job is to serve as lead catalyst for the many initiatives in the West Branch Valley. The coalition also provides services for everyone, interested in cleaning up the West Branch watershed.

Also represented on Roundtable this weekend, the Lycoming College Clean Water Institute, the Susquehanna River Heartland Coalition for Environmental Studies, DEP and several watershed groups.

You can hear Roundtable (Sunday) on:

Eagle 107 (107.3FM) at 6a.m.

100.9, The Valley, at 6a.m.

WKOK at 9a.m.

Talkradio 1380 WMLP, 11a.m.

94KX at 11p.m.

And anytime by clicking here!

Monday June 5th, 2006

Looking at the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay

SUNBURY – Today, WKOK and our sister stations at Sunbury Broadcasting Corporation, begin an informational series of broadcasts regarding the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay. This series is entitled, Boroughs to the Bay, and everywhere in between. Each day we’ll have a news story about efforts to clean up, improve, conserve, preserve or enhance the river and the bay. We’ll have several Leaders & Lawmakers segments and Roundtables too.

Today, we have an update on Byers Island, the name for the largest of six islands recently donated by PPL to the North Central Pennsylvania Conservancy. The islands are near Shamokin Dam, and Renee Carey, the Executive Director of the conservancy tells us, the Susquehanna Water Trail Association is currently making a portage trail and camping site on the islands. They hope to have that work done in time for the Susquehanna Sojourn’s visit to our area Saturday, June 17th.

Ultimately, the conservancy will donate the islands to the State Department of Forestry. That department is still determined how they will manage the bird and island habitat on the islands.

Tomorrow afternoon, we’ll hear from the Western Pennsylvania Watershed Program, who are already concerned about the West Branch of the river, and are extending that concern—and funding—to the rest of the Susquehanna River basin. (Mark Lawrence)

Tuesday, June 6th, 2006

Local Watershed groups could be funding from Western P-A

SUNBURY – The Boroughs to the Bay—our summer 2006 focus on the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay continues with word that dozens of local watershed groups could get some new funding from an unexpected source. The Western Pennsylvania Watershed Program has been helping groups in their part of the state for years, but now they are looking at helping watershed restoration efforts on the West Branch of the Susquehanna River and the Main Stem.

Branden Diehl, the Program Assistant for the program recently told area environmental leaders that there are now funds available for local watershed groups, “The message today is that (we) are moving into the Susquehanna Region, working with groups on the West Branch of the Susquehanna as well with groups as the main stem of the Susquehanna.”

“We can provide them with restoration dollars…and help them coordinate their efforts, and bringing them not only financial resources, but manpower resources, technical resources and any other resources that we provide to help them achieve their mission of watershed restoration,” he said.

He said people should be happy about the new partnerships that are being developed between Central Pennsylvania watershed groups and the western Pennsylvania programs. He called it an economic development program because it improves recreation opportunities and helps in revitalization efforts.

Tomorrow…lots of floaters coming to our area soon…

Wednesday June 7th, 2006

There is a pair of canoe trips scheduled through our region

SUNBURY – Now another installment of our Boroughs to the Bay focus on the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay. Within the next 30 days, two groups of canoeists will float, and paddle, and portage through our area.

First, the 16th annual Susquehanna Sojourn, sponsored by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, will launch next week from the Susquehanna Riverlands Environmental Preserve, near the Susquehanna Nuclear Power Plant near Berwick. Their 9-day destination is Safe Harbor Dam, in southern Pennsylvania, about 128 miles downstream. They’ll stop at Shikellamy State Park Marina June 16th, and the next day, portage on Byer’s Island near Shamokin Dam.

The second canoe trip, June 18th, in Cooperstown, New York, the Chesapeake Bay foundation’s Expedition Susquehanna 2006, gets underway. Twelve Future Farmers of America members will canoe about 444 miles over five weeks and end up in Annapolis, Maryland. They will be at the Shikellamy State Park Marina, Saturday, July 1st, for a public Watershed Expo. A local student, Brian Gray of Selinsgrove, will be on that expedition.

Kim Patten with the Chesapeake Bay Foundation says, “They will be canoeing most of that time with side trips off the river to explore watershed issues to talk to experts and community people and other watershed stakeholders about what’s going on in various parts of the watershed, what the issues are and what people are doing to help.”

WKOK will continue to follow the expeditions as they near, we’ll report on the two canoe trips through our area and we’ll talk to students and participants along the way. Tomorrow on Boroughs to the Bay: The Kreamer connection to the Chesapeake Bay.

Thursday, June 8th, 2006

Helping to ‘Save-the-Bay-in-Kreamer-P-A’

KREAMER – The Boroughs to the Bay series continues today with word that the Kreamer Municipal Authority and their newly expanded sewage treatment facility is part of the solution. The newly expanded plant has nearly double the capacity as the previous facility, but more important, it treats wastewater more thoroughly. Pat George of Kreamer is a member of the municipal authority, she tells us the Susquehanna River, and Chesapeake Bay are threatened by nitrogen and phosphorus in sewage effluent.

This new plant can treat sewage and more effectively remove these elements from the discharge. She said of the 121 sewage treatment plants in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, most, nearly 80% are rated as unacceptable by the Chesapeake Bay foundation. She did note that storm-water run-off and agriculture discharges are still threatening the bay, but in Kreamer, they are proud to say that they part of the solution—and not part of the problem.

Another big problem with sewage treatment facilities—is untreated overflows, when the plant capacity is overtaxed and untreated sewage enters the river and the bay. George said their new plant has a much higher capacity and that will reduce sewage overflows.

Friday, June 9th, 2006

Our Boroughs to the Bay series continues with…solutions

SUNBURY – Our Boroughs to the Bay series continues…this week we’ve looked at some problems and some solutions related to the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay. However, what needs to be done to restore and enhance this watershed?

Will Baker, the Executive Director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation tells us, they have identified some systemic solutions: First, get the vast majority of sewage treatment plants in full compliance with long term goals of releasing no nitrogen or phosphorus into the river. Next, address agriculture run-off in a greater way—that’s the biggest source of nutrient pollution in the water, and third, burn fewer fossil fuels.

That means reducing emissions from cars, power plants and other sources. The next priority will be addressing storm water runoff in municipalities (which he says is full of contaminants) and get homeowners to fertilize responsibly.

Ironically he said the pollution and the death of the bay, isn’t a problem in search of a solution, it’s a easily defined set of solutions in search of funding, and the will to make the change. You and I can drive less, conserve water, make sure our furnaces are working well, and live a more earth-friendly life. He encourages people to get more information, at www.cbf.org. Next on Boroughs to the Bay: Sunday and Monday on WKOK, the Susquehanna River Trails, and their waterproof map.

Saturday/Sunday Weekend Update 6/10/06

Boroughs to the Bay looks at the Susquehanna River Trail today

SUNBURY – The Boroughs to the Bay series continues today with word that a very busy trail goes through our area—and you might not even noticed. The Susquehanna River Trail is an organization, which has mapped, in detail, several river trails, including the middle section—from Sunbury to Harrisburg. The mission of the Susquehanna River Trail project is to promote and facilitate recreation on the Susquehanna River and its many islands.

The trail association has produced maps, which aid canoeists, and kayakers as they utilize the river. The maps give detailed data on islands, portage information and where various riverside facilities can be found. Brook Lenker of Camp Hill is a co-founder of the river trail and a past president of the association.

He says they produce GPS ready water-proof water-trail guides. They also oversee 20 islands between Sunbury and Harrisburg which they prepare for camping and portaging by clearing some brush and debris, and erecting informational signs. They also coordinate the many volunteers who are Island Stewards…those individuals visit the islands frequently, maintain the association’s work and monitor the island usage.

You can get more information at www.susquehannarivertrail.org. Next, on Boroughs to the Bay, we’ll talk to the Selinsgrove area Student who has a 444-mile canoe trip in his future.

Monday, June 12th, 2006

It is all about the environment—so says a Selinsgrove teen going on an expedition

SUNBURY – An area teenager is tough to track down, making FFA trips to summer competitions, attending 4-H and other activities, and picking up some awards along the way. Our Boroughs to the Bay series continues today with word that 16-year-old Brian Gray of rural Selinsgrove, is one of the 12 high school Future Farmers of America students going on the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Expedition Susquehanna 2006. He lives and works on the family farm, and said watershed issues have been a big part of his life already.

He’ll canoe from Cooperstown New York, to Annapolis Maryland, and participate in side trips along the way. The Foundation is using the trip to promote conservation and enhancing the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay watershed. Gray said he hopes to learn more about aquatic wildlife and the threats to the river and the bay. He said he signed up because it sounded like a good, fun trip, and a good educational, informational cause. As for his future, he wants to be an engineer and stay associated with agriculture.

Tomorrow, we’ll hear from the head of Lycoming College’s Clean Water Institute, about local watershed restoration efforts locally.

Thursday, June 15, 2006

The river is much cleaner…thanks to our guest on Boroughs to the Bay today

SUNBURY – The Susquehanna River is full of boaters and anglers, and is lined with campsites at some locations. Canoeists enjoy the river and creeks…so what is all this talk about problems in the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay Watershed? Today in our Boroughs to the Bay segment, we start to talk about the Chesapeake Bay Commission and their role in monitoring recreation, and invisible pollution in the river.

Marel Raub is the Pennsylvania Director of the commission and she tells us about their work. She says, they are a tri-state, legislative commission, “I work as a staff person to the legislators and citizen members who serve on that commission. One local member is Representative Russell Fairchild (R-85th, Lewisburg), he’s been a member for a long time, and has served well in leadership of that commission through the years, and we look at what is the role of state government, helping to facilitate local efforts, helping to facilitate state efforts, there have been lots of laws and regulations that have been put in place over the last 20-years, because the river is improving.”

That is the key…lots of progress so far, and far more progress to go. Currently, she says major point source polluters have been controlled, but hidden nitrogen and phosphorus, and phenomenal amounts of sediment from erosion, are flooding the bay and killing thousands of aquatic plants and wildlife each year.

Tomorrow, more about the commission’s work, helping to Save the Bay, and more talk about, the Susquehanna Greenway.

Thursday, June 15, 2006

The bay is being cleaned up, thanks to local folks around here

SUNBURY – We keep talking about the Chesapeake Bay, and that is good, but the work to clean up the bay doesn’t have anything to do with Maryland or anyone else in the bay. The problem, starts, here. In our Boroughs to the Bay feature today, we hear from the Chesapeake Bay Commission, and we hear that local efforts are the key to the clean-up.

Marel Raub is the Pennsylvania Director of the commission and she tell us, watershed organizations have been popping up,

“A lot of local groups have been working over the past 20-years and even more intensively in the past decade, we’ve had Growing Greener funding of local watershed groups to do a lot of work at the local level to address some of the issues that have been talked about.

Looking at their local watershed to identify exactly what are the sources of nutrient and sediment pollution in that local watershed and helping to secure grant money or other sources of funding to go in and actually help make a difference. We help them put ‘best management practices’ on the land and a lot of work has been going on, at the local level.”

There are numerous local watershed groups who continue to address local water problems, helping to mitigate acid mine drainage, cleaning stream banks and adding buffers to keep muddy run off water from going in the local watershed. We’ll hear from some of those groups in the weeks ahead and next on Boroughs to the Bay, we’ll talk about the Susquehanna Greenway.

Friday, June 16, 2006

The Susquehanna Greenway, explained, today on Boroughs to the Bay

SUNBURY – The Susquehanna Greenway is not exactly a household phrase around here, but some people we talked to for our Boroughs to Bay segment hope that will change soon. The Susquehanna Greenway is the name of a unified series of land and water, recreational locations and other attractions, which will be connected by signs and maps.

The Greenway reports in their latest materials that they hope to renew awareness of the river valley, its distinctive scenery and natural and cultural heritage. Sounds ’conceptual’ but Brian Auman, the interim coordinator of the Susquehanna Greenway tells us, they have very practical concerns about addressing water quality as part of their plan.

“The partnership is really in a transitional phase right now. For the last four years, we’ve been planning the Susquehanna Greenway, ‘Whats the vision? What can this achieve?’ and we’re really now making this transition to an organization that will be established to provide implementation and putting projects on the ground. Water quality and environment stewardship is a major part of our vision for the Susquehanna Greenway and everybody talks about this connected system, making this connection the realization that water quality is a barometer of how well we’re being stewards of the land, making that connection to people, and bringing the big picture of the bay—home to people in their backyards.”

Currently, the Susquehanna Greenway effort involves a broad regional partnership, which is in search of more funding. Next, we’ll hear from Brian Auman, on specific water quality concerns.

Sunday, June 18, 2006

You can't have a Greenway without clean water

SUNBURY-- In the coming days, our Boroughs to the Bay features, we will focus on the close ties between economic development--and having a high quality watershed (like the Susquehanna River and the Chesapeake Bay). Brian Auman, the interim coordinator of the Susquehanna Greenway partnership says the Greenway is a concept that ties together numerous recreational, natural, historical, and cultural sites along the Susquehanna River. Improving the watershed is critical, according to Auman, and so is educating local residents that everybody in this area impacts the river. He says chemical contamination of river water indicates that many are poor stewards of the upper part of the watershed.

The problem he says, is that when our soils run off and travel in the bay--it is bad that they have to deal with the sediment, but what’s worse--is that we no longer have those soils in our area.

Tomorrow--Clean & green--clean water and green dollars are one in the same.

Monday, June 19, 2006

Money rolls into our region—thanks to the…river

SUNBURY – The Sunbury area is unique—the Susquehanna River and Lake Augusta are at a location where major highways converge, where there has been tremendous growth in business and housing, and there recreation has become a busier industry. In our Boroughs to the Bay segment today, we follow the money to the river.

Kurt Kissinger, the president of the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce told us, Sunbury’s Riverfront project is just one way, you’ll see, water leading the way toward economic development, “Bring vibrancy back to Front Street in Sunbury, leveraging the river, bring tourism and visitors who then see what a great Market Street business environment is prevalent there, creating and generating new types of businesses that are focused on serving those visitors as well as other types of service oriented companies is just going to create a renaissance project.”

“We don’t have to go very far to see an example, Mayor Reed in Harrisburg has done a phenomenon job in recognizing how you need to leverage river front redevelopment in terms of encouraging downtown revitalization, Harrisburg has seen a tremendous renaissance on city island and the river front.” He adds, the river and recreation are worth fighting for, because they prove to visitors (and continually show local residents) that they are in a thriving area, a growing area, with a high quality of life.

Next on Boroughs to the Bay…the Creative Class and the Central Susquehanna Valley.

Tuesday, June 20, 2006

The Boroughs to the Bay, and the Creative Class

SUNBURY – The entire Central Susquehanna Valley has something now other area in the U-S has: a high quality of life, hunting, fishing, and other outdoor sports. Close proximity with urban areas, an eager work force…and great education. These are a few of the attractions for the Creative Class.

Today on our Boroughs to the Bay segment, Kurt Kissinger with the Greater Susquehanna Valley Chamber of Commerce tells us about this class of new job seekers and entrepreneurs, who regard the assets of our area as indispensable.

“Diversity plays a role in this, but also quality of life aspects, building a quality of life place, where people can work here, because they want the quality of life that sets this region apart from other regions, but can provide their services as a labor force to local companies, globally active. So this creative class, one that is geared on idea generation, product development, fostering diversity…is one that demands quality of life aspects to where they live and work. So, enhancing the river, leveraging the river as a community and economic development resources is every important to nurturing that creative place,”

The key—is recreation. The Chesapeake Bay watershed—including our area—includes many of the attractive outdoor opportunities for the people who are looking for a growing, rural area, with a lot of offer. Kissinger said our area has some deficits in this area—but there is progress and the problems have been identified.

Next—the head of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, talking about our threatened watershed.

Wednesday, June 21, 2006

Time to talk about more solutions…on Boroughs to the Bay

SUNBURY – We’ve been talking about the threats to the bay for weeks now; the farm runoff, sewage plant overflows, and over fertilizing our lawns. We know the threats and the real problems now, but what about the solutions. In our Boroughs to the Bay segment today, we hear a call to action.

Matt Ehrhart, the Pennsylvania Director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation tells us, we have to keep up the ‘riparian’ zones near streams. Those are the buffers of brush and trees near streams, which help prevent soil from eroding into the waterway. Beyond that—everyone needs to take action.

“We need folks to be engage, more involved, and we all flush. Therefore, when it comes time to upgrade our wastewater treatment plants (many of them haven’t been upgraded in 20-30-50 years) and it is really time. There’s a cost to that and its not always easy, but it is time to move ahead with that. So be a proponent of that, and get engaged with the process, with your local watershed association, with your local trout unlimited chapter, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, all these groups have avenues where people can weigh in with their legislators and policy makers. We need to keep funding the Growing Greener program; we need to have advocates when these issues come up.

People also need to know, their vote really counts…get involved with local and regional groups, and find out about watershed groups who are having a big impact around here. We’ll hear from those groups in the coming weeks. Next, we will walk the Sunbury Riverfront, and talk about the big changes coming there.

Thursday, June 22, 2006

Sunbury’s riverfront project has the attention of many people

SUNBURY –There are certainly local people who are big supporters of the Sunbury River Front Project and there are also, most certainly, local people who are aren’t supporting the project…but in this Boroughs to the Bay segment today, we find out the eyes of a lot of state leaders are focused on Sunbury.

Catherine Scheib, the community development coordinator for the City of Sunbury tells us, the riverfront project is viewed as a flagship effort for the Susquehanna Greenway. The entire greenway pivots on Sunbury and she tells us why Sunbury—and the project are so compelling.

“The location of Sunbury on the Susquehanna River and the ability to access Lake Augusta (which is a 3,000 acre recreational lake) is just an incredible opportunity to bring young people with families that are looking for a quality of life because life along the riverfront can be incredibly engaging. You have recreational opportunities, you have environmental opportunities and just the beauty of the river is very compelling for some people to live by.”

Catherine Scheib also tells us that the riverfront project is progressing, some exploratory excavation has been completed, efforts are underway to get more funding, and soon a consultants report will lead to some final design ideas.

Next on Boroughs to the Bay…more the Greenway’s big interest in Sunbury.

June 26, 2006

What can you do to help the Susquehanna River watershed?

SUNBURY – The work of cleaning up the Chesapeake Bay is taking place…in our area. The local tributaries and small streams in the Central Susquehanna Valley feed the river, and the river provides 50% of the fresh water in the bay. And the work to enhance the local tributaries is also taking place around here--by local people, doing local projects and helping any way they can.

In this Boroughs to the Bay segment today, Matt McTammany, an assistant professor of Biology at Bucknell tells us, what you and I can do to help,

“If you’re concerned about small streams, you should look up your local watershed group and try to become active. Try to join it if you can. I’m on the board of the Buffalo Creek Watershed Alliance and we have a great group of people, but it’s a small group we’d like to get bigger. I know every watershed group has the same goal. You can talk to your county conservation district, they have watershed officers for every county and they’re really helpful people. Otherwise, just enjoy the water and try to enjoy your healthy streams and think that all of them could look like that.”

Every area around here has or will have a local watershed group. You can find out about a watershed group in your area, but contacting DEP, or attending a ‘Watershed Event’ this Saturday at the Shikellamy State Park Marina. That is when the 12-FFA students on the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Expedition will be there, and the foundation will conduct a public watershed educational seminar. The seminar is from 4 to 7 p.m. Saturday.

June 29, 2006

You are invited to a Watershed Expo and cookout

SUNBURY – The students from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation’s Expedition Susquehanna 2006 are camping in our area—and they would like to meet you. In this Boroughs to the Bay segment, we talk about the invitation for you to find out more their trip—and to find out more about local watershed groups. Kim Patten is from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation.

The foundation is holding a Watershed Expo and Cookout Saturday afternoon, from 4 to 7p.m., at the Shikellamy State Park Overlook (The event was originally scheduled to take place at the Shikellamy State Park Marina, but was moved because of flooding).

Local Watershed groups, including the Buffalo Valley Watershed Alliance will be represented, and Lycoming College’s Clean Water Institute will have a presentation. Students will also be discussing their expedition so far, and their off-river activities after the flooding began Tuesday on the North branch of the river.

Students did assist in some of the flood response efforts there, and got to see first hand, a sewage treatment plant overflowing into the Susquehanna River. You will find out what you can do to help the Susquehanna River and Chesapeake Bay. The students are now camping in our area.

The Watershed event is Saturday, 4 to 7 p.m. at the Shikellamy State Park Overlook.

July 1, 2006

This summer’s flood is very bad news for many, many people

SUNBURY – The Summer 2006 flood victims aren’t just the people whose property was damaged or destroyed, but the victims include the local recreation and fishing industries, the huge industry that was Chesapeake Bay fishing and crabbing, and…us. In this Boroughs to the Bay segment, Senior Naturalist John Paige Williams is speaking of last year’s lesser flood, killing a big part of the river and bay.

“It was just that it trashed the bay, but it trashed the entire river. Friends, small mouth guides, small mouth anglers down on the lower part of the river around Middletown (told me they) were crying the blues just as much as folks down in the bay. There was an awful lot of Pennsylvania water that got beat up badly in the process. It was one of those (things where), ‘We have met the enemy and he is us.”

Example, Bloomsburg’s sewer plant is now discharging all of the town’s raw, untreated sewage into the river—and continues to do so. That plus, the 330,000 cubic feet of contaminated water, per second, that flowed by Sunbury at the peak of the flooding. That will have a multi-million dollar—and a devastating environmental impact.

Next, we’ll look at more of the flooding impact, on Boroughs to the Bay.

July 5, 2006

Watershed groups, the next focus of our Boroughs to the Bay segments

FORKSVILLE – The Chesapeake Bay drainage basin is the broad overriding area that our Boroughs to the Bay segments are looking at, but within that big area, are hundreds of smaller watersheds.

Joan Sattler is the Watershed Manager for the state D-E-P in this region. She tells us, the street level work to clean up the watershed begins at home:

“Everybody can prevent pollution in their own backyard. Every thing that hits the ground ultimately goes somewhere. So, reduce fertilizer, reduce pesticide applications. Recycle. Reduce emissions if you have woodstoves. Everything that goes up comes down in the rain water, so all the things that people have been touting for years; conserve, don’t be wasteful of anything.”

That is where you come in. People are encouraged to join local watershed groups. Those are the local clubs, and there are about 40 in our region. They are groups where local environmentalists work to help improve water quality and the bay.

For example, in our area, there is the Roaring Creek Valley Conservation Association, the Buffalo Valley Watershed Alliance, and the Shamokin Creek Restoration Alliance. We’ll hear about one of the latest projects in our next report.

July 6, 2006

Boroughs to the bay looks at a watershed group

LEWISBURG – The Buffalo Valley Watershed Alliance is a new, growing, watershed group that has big plans. They hope to restore the Buffalo Creek to the once thriving trout stream that it was centuries ago. In this Boroughs to the Bay segment, we find out about their ambitious plans.

Joan Sattler is the Watershed Manager for the state D-E-P in this region, she says part of her job is to help local watershed groups grow, and accomplish their goal. The Buffalo Valley Watershed Alliance is one such group she’s helping. They want to install an “acid deposition treatment system:”

“The headwaters of that stream are affected by acid rain and certain areas in that watershed are basically sterile. The aquatic life has died and the watershed group has identified a six-mile reach that they could repair with a single passive treatment system and actually bring trout back to that area and they’ve applied for a grant to do the design on that system. They did obtain that grant from the state, the design is now finished they are currently waiting to hear if their most recent application