News & Notes April 2008

Governor Rendell Addresses Capitol Day Attendees

For the first time in PACD history, the Governor of Pennsylvania addressed our members. During his speech to over 200 people at the PACD Capitol Day luncheon, Governor Edward G. Rendell said that developing cellulosic ethanol technology is the key to reaching energy independence and protecting Pennsylvania's water quality.

Governor Edward G. Rendell addresses PACD Capitol Day attendees.

"Pennsylvania needs a comprehensive energy strategy that frees us from our dependence on foreign oil, grows our economy, and respects our natural resources," said Governor Rendell. "Consumers are reeling from higher gas prices today and questioning how they're going to manage when it reaches $4 per gallon, as expected later this year."

"If we invest in alternatives like ethanol and biodiesel-fuels that rely on domestically grown food stocks produced by Pennsylvania companies-we can lower the prices at the pump and put more of the $30 billion we spend annually on fuels from abroad in the pockets of our farmers, manufacturers, and rail and trucking industries."

Since Pennsylvania is home to the largest Conservation Resource Enhancement Program in the entire nation, the Governor assured the audience that he will continue to invest in best management practices. However, he sees an opportunity for Pennsylvania to become a leader in developing and producing cellulosic ethanol technology.

"Cellulosic ethanol can be produced from biomass materials like switchgrass, crop residues, small-diameter trees and agricultural waste-all things we have in abundance here in Pennsylvania," said the Governor.

Other Capitol Day activities leading up to the Governor's address included a legislative briefing on the key issues important to conservation districts across the Commonwealth. Then a reception was held to allow legislators and their staff to mingle with PACD members.

During the formal luncheon program, PACD Executive Director Susan Marquart outlined the PACD legislative priorities including the need to obtain consistent and sufficient funding for conservation district activities and staff, amendments to the Conservation District Law, and future renewable energy projects.

Also during the luncheon, Senators Roger Madigan and Michael Waugh were presented with the 2007 PACD Legislator Recognition Award. The PACD presents this award to legislators whose outstanding efforts have helped further the activities and accomplishments of the PACD or Pennsylvania's sixty-six county conservation districts. See the article "Senators Madigan and Waugh Honored During PACD Capitol Day" below.

"I think the event went very well and it was a great opportunity to speak with our legislators," said Michelle Ulmer, education coordinator, Pike County Conservation District.

Following the Capitol Day events, a special conservation partnership forum was held on information technology. Due to the focus on protecting sensitive data, responding to emerging computing technologies, adapting to downward pressure on budgets, and many other issues related to information technology and homeland security, the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is reducing the total number of computers they are supporting in their part of the USDA system. Conservation districts will have an opportunity to purchase computer services from NRCS that includes a refresh cycle (new equipment) approximately every five years. Partnership representatives were on hand to discuss the impact this will have on conservation districts and to answer questions. Follow-up information and a list of frequently asked questions were sent to the managers and directors' listserves. Write to shannon-wehinger@pacd.org for a copy of this email.

Senators Madigan and Waugh Honored During PACD Capitol Day

During the PACD Capitol Day luncheon, Senators Roger Madigan and Michael Waugh were announced as the recipients of the 2007 PACD Legislator Recognition Award. The PACD presents this award to legislators whose outstanding efforts have helped further the activities and accomplishments of the PACD or Pennsylvania's sixty-six county conservation districts.

PACD President Larry Kehl (center) presents Senator Roger Madigan (left) and Senator Michael Waugh with the 2007 PACD Legislator Recognition Award during the Capitol Day Luncheon on March 17, 2008 in Harrisburg.

Senator Roger Madigan was nominated by Lycoming, Sullivan, and Susquehanna County Conservation Districts. The Senator's work representing conservation districts has had an enormous impact on conservation related issues throughout the Commonwealth. He has hosted Stream Bank Erosion Roundtable discussions providing the opportunity for conservation district representatives to discuss local environmental issues with state and federal officials. He has sponsored hands-on tours of environmental issues including reclaimed mine land and acid mine drainage treatment facilities, and established the State's Environmentally Sensitive Maintenance of Dirt and Gravel Roads Program.

Senator Michael Waugh was nominated by the York County Conservation District. He has been a long time ally to conservation districts and their programs to promote environmental stewardship throughout his legislative career. He is especially active in promoting environmental education and serves on the Chesapeake Bay Commission. His legislative initiatives include sponsorship of the REAP program, promoting renewable alternative fuel funding, funding for the Agricultural Conservation Easement Purchase Program, and co-sponsoring legislation to provide a single, non-lapsing fund to the state's conservation districts.
Larry Kehl, PACD president stated, "I am honored to present Senator Madigan and Senator Waugh with the PACD Legislator Recognition Award. Their numerous contributions to agriculture and the environment over the years have benefited all Pennsylvania citizens."

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