Presenters
Kurt Bauman, Grant Writing and Project Development Workshop Part 2: Seeking Community Foundations for Support (Fri Workshop)
See also Kate Totino (Part 1) and Branden Diehl (Part 3)
Abstract:
Grantwriting – Outline of grant application, basics elements (Exe. Summary, Problem statement, Goals-Objectives-Tasks, Eval., Budget) (65 min.)
Contact Info: Kate Totino and Kurt Bauman, NEPA Alliance Web: www.nepa-alliance.org
Tom Clark, Susquehanna River Basin Anthracite Region AMD Remediation Strategy (Fri)
Abstract: In 2008, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC), in partnership with Trout Unlimited and the Pennsylvania Department’s of Environmental Protection (PADEP) and Conservation and Natural Resources (PADCNR), completed the West Branch Susquehanna Subbasin Abandoned Mine Drainage (AMD) Remediation Strategy. That strategy is now being utilized to guide AMD treatment and abandoned mine land (AML) reclamation projects in the 7,000 square mile West Branch Susquehanna River Subbasin. Due to the success of that strategy, SRBC decided to internally fund a similar effort for the 517 square mile Anthracite Region of the Susquehanna River Basin. The goals of the Susquehanna Basin Anthracite Region AMD Remediation Strategy included; the creation of a historical water quality database which contains 17,661 distinct water quality samples from 745 water quality stations; an analysis of AMD loading “hot-spots”; and an investigation of possible projects that could combine AMD treatment and/or AML reclamation with the creation of low-flow augmentation water. Using the historical water quality database for analysis, a Top-20 Plan Remediation Strategy has been recommended. The Top-20 Plan represents only six percent of the total AMD discharges in the Susquehanna River Basin Anthracite Region, but represents 57.6 percent of the total discharge flow, 70.0 percent of the total iron loading, 72.0 percent of the total manganese loading, 80.8 percent of the total aluminum loading, and 63.0 percent of the total acidity loading entering the Susquehanna River Basin from the Anthracite Region.
Biography: Obtained a B.S. in Biology, with an emphasis in Terrestrial Ecology, from the University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown in 1998. Obtained a M.S. in Biology, with an emphasis in Aquatic Ecology and Water Pollution Control, from the California University of Pennsylvania in 2003. Worked as a contracted water consultant from 2000-2007. Major clients included the Indiana County Conservation District, serving as their Watershed Specialist, and the Paint Creek Regional Watershed Association, serving as their Grant Writer and Project Manager. In 2007, obtained the Mine Drainage Program Coordinator position with the Susquehanna River Basin Commission and serves in that position currently.
Contact: Thomas J Clark, Mine Drainage Program Coordinator Susquehanna River Basin Commission, Web: www.srbc.net
Charles A Cravotta III, Ph.D. P.G., Water Budgets and Volumes for Abandoned Underground Mines in the Western Middle Anthracite (Fri)
Abstract: This report, prepared in cooperation with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PaDEP), the Eastern Pennsylvania Coalition for Abandoned Mine Reclamation, and the Dauphin County Conservation District, provides estimates of water budgets and groundwater volumes stored in abandoned underground mines in the Western Middle Anthracite Coalfield, which encompasses an area of 120 square miles in eastern Pennsylvania. The estimates are based on preliminary simulations using a groundwater-flow model and an associated geographic information system that integrates data on the mining features, hydrogeology, and streamflow in the study area. The Mahanoy and Shamokin Creek Basins were the focus of the study, because these basins exhibit extensive hydrologic effects and water-quality degradation from the abandoned mines in their headwaters in the Western Middle Anthracite Coalfield. Proposed groundwater withdrawals from the flooded parts of the mines and stream-channel modifications in selected areas have the potential for altering the distribution of groundwater and the interaction between the groundwater and streams in the area.
Preliminary quasi-3-dimensional, steady-state simulations of groundwater flow by the use of MODFLOW are presented to summarize information on the exchange of groundwater among adjacent mines and to help guide the management of ongoing data collection, reclamation activities, and water-use planning. The conceptual model includes high-permeability mine voids that are connected vertically and horizontally within multicolliery units (MCUs). MCUs were identified on the basis of mine maps, locations of mine discharges, and groundwater levels in the mines measured by PaDEP. The locations and integrity of mine barriers were determined from mine maps and groundwater levels. The permeability of intact barriers is low, reflecting the hydraulic characteristics of unmined host rock and coal.
A steady-state model was calibrated to measured groundwater levels and stream base flow, the latter at many locations composed primarily of discharge from mines. Automatic parameter estimation used MODFLOW-2000 with manual adjustments to constrain parameter values to realistic ranges. The calibrated model supports the conceptual model of high-permeability MCUs separated by low-permeability barriers and streamflow losses and gains associated with mine infiltration and discharge. The simulated groundwater levels illustrate low groundwater gradients within an MCU and abrupt changes in water levels between MCUs. The preliminary model results indicate that the primary result of increased pumping from the mine would be reduced discharge from the mine to streams near the pumping wells. The intact barriers limit the spatial extent of mine dewatering. Considering the simulated groundwater levels, depth of mining, and assumed bulk porosity of 11 or 40 percent for the mined seams, the water volume in storage in the mines of the
Western Middle Anthracite Coalfield was estimated to range from 60 to 220 billion gallons, respectively. Details of the groundwater-level distribution and the rates of some mine discharges are not simulated well using the preliminary model. Use of the model results should be limited to evaluation of the conceptual model and its simulation using porous-media flow methods, overall water budgets for the Western Middle Anthracite Coalfield, and approximate storage volumes.
Model results should not be considered accurate for detailed simulation of flow within a single MCU or individual flooded mine. Although improvements in the model calibration were possible by introducing spatial variability in permeability parameters and adjusting barrier properties, more detailed parameterizations have increased uncertainty because of the limited data set. Use of transient simulations, calibrated with transient measurements, is suggested to provide an independent estimate of the storage capacity of the mines.
Contact Info: Charles A Cravotta III, Ph.D. P.G. Hydrologist/Geochemist, U.S. Geological Survey, Pennsylvania Water Science Center, 215 Limekiln Road, New Cumberland, PA 17070 Phone:717-730-6963, E-mail:cravotta@usgs.gov, Web: http://profile.usgs.gov/cravotta, http://mine-drainage.usgs.gov/
Anne Daymut, Making Good Decisions in AMD Treatment: A Video Presentation (Sat)
Abstract: WPCAMR will present the latest in their series of AMD education videos, AMD Treatment Option Selection. Because the selection and implementation of AMD treatment options should ultimately be in the hands of trained professionals, the video focuses on the kinds of considerations used in selecting a treatment strategy appropriate for a particular discharge. Watershed groups armed with this knowledge will be better able to interact with the professionals they employ. To fill the entire time slot, other videos produced by WPCAMR may also be shown. This video will be based on “Some Recent Advances in Passive Treatment of Mine Drainage”, a presentation by Art Rose.
Biography: Anne has been working with WPCAMR for 1 year. Previously she was the Indiana County Conservation District Watershed Specialist and an OSM VISTA for Blackleggs Creek Watershed Association. Anne has a Master’s Degree from Duquesne University, Bachelor’s Degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and is currently a Student at University of Pittsburgh and taking classes at Pittsburgh Filmmakers.
Contact Info: Anne Daymut, Watershed Coordinator, WPCAMR, web:www.wpcamr.org
Branden Diehl, Grant Writing and Project Development Workshop Part 3: Submitting a Foundation Proposal (Fri Workshop)
See also Kate Totino (Part 1) and Kurt Bauman (Part 2)
Abstract: As Growing Greener funds dwindle, many environmental groups are struggling with project financing. Though corporate giving provides some gap-filling, it certainly hasn’t bridged the funding chasm. Today, project success is achieved through creative partnerships, by pursuing the right ‘connectors’, and with a creative outlook. Traditionally, environmental groups sought funding from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protect (DEP) and Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. It made sense as they had project funds. Now, times are changing, and so should your project funding strategy. Most watershed groups will be surprised to learn they can qualify for federal funds from the United State’s Department of Agriculture, and other unconventional sources. This presentation will frame a thought process for achieving more with less, introduce concepts such as ‘bargain sales’, and provide the audience with new funding ideas. The presentation will also provide tips on organizational cost-saving measures.
Contact Info: Branden Diehl, Foundation for PA Watersheds Web: www.pennsylvaniawatersheds.org
Cliff Denholm & Shaun Busler, Datashed.org (Sat Workshop)
Abstract: A hands-on training workshop will be provided free-of-charge to those interested in learning more about using the website Datashed (www.datashed.org). Datashed was developed through a partnership effort to provide an open and easy-to-use repository of information related to passive treatment systems and abandoned mine land projects. Anyone with access to an internet connection can view the valuable information that is regularly being updated as new data are collected. While the amount of documents and data available will vary from project to project, information such as treatment technologies, water monitoring data, site schematics, photos, Operation and Maintenance Plans, design and/or “As-built” drawings, directions to the project, aerial photos, various reports, etc. can be viewed on the website. Access is available to everyone; however, an account is needed for those who wish to add/edit information. Accounts are quick and easy to set up by contacting Stream Restoration Incorporated.
The workshop will cover how to use Datashed to:
• view project related information
• create new projects
• create new water sampling points
• edit existing information
• enter/upload data
• upload project-related files
Those planning on attending are encouraged to bring their own laptops, if they have one, as only a limited number of laptops will be available for shared use. You can also follow along with examples shown on the projector screen. If you maintain a passive treatment system, bring your own data and sample point information to add to Datashed with the assistance of the site administrators.
Contact Info: Cliff Denholm or Shaun Busler, Stream Restoration Incorporated, sri@streamrestorationinc.org
Rebecca Dunlap, The West Branch Susquehanna Recovery Benchmark Project (Fri)
Abstract: Over the last 25 years, numerous AMD remediation projects have been implemented in the West Branch Susquehanna watershed to improve water quality and biological conditions. In 2009 TU developed the West Branch Recovery Benchmark Project to quantify the effects of these remediation projects, provide sufficient water quality data for the integrated database and model created as part of the West Branch Susquehanna Remediation Strategy, and provide a benchmark to compare future assessments of remediation efforts. Results from this Project indicate significantly better water quality and biological conditions compared to historical conditions as a result of the gradually diminishing rate of pyrite oxidation, remining activities, passive and active treatment, and other remediation projects.
Biography: Becky serves as Manager for National Trout Unlimited’s Eastern Abandoned Mine Program which focuses on the conservation, protection, and restoration of coldwater fisheries and watershed that have been impacted by historic coal mining throughout the Appalachian region. Her work to date has been primarily focused in the West Branch Susquehanna watershed in Pennsylvania where Trout Unlimited is the lead catalyst working toward the comprehensive and coordinated cleanup of abandoned mine drainage. Becky has her B.S. and M.S. in biology with a focus on aquatic ecology.
Contact Info: Rebecca Dunlap, Eastern Abandoned Mine Land Program Manager, Trout Unlimited, E-mail:rdunlap@tu.org, Web:www.tu.org
Jenna Fehr, Effective Strategies for Engaging Rural Volunteers in AML Reclamation (Sat)
Abstract: Volunteers are an essential component in reclaiming abandoned mine lands in many rural communities. Recruiting and effectively supporting volunteers, however, is often a challenge for groups in our nation’s most under-resourced and environmentally damaged communities. Effective volunteer recruitment and management strategies that have been analyzed across a network of rural watershed organizations will be presented in this session, bringing careful, tested research and specific examples from Appalachian coal country and the Western hardrock mining region to participants. With funding provided by the EPA’s Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds, the Appalachian Coal Country Team has undertaken the “Volunteers for Rural Watersheds” research project. This initiative has encouraged rural watershed organizations to partner with a variety of local like-minded community groups and individuals, while simultaneously exploring the question of who is volunteering and for what reasons. It has also looked at what management practices groups are engaged in that get volunteers involved and keep them coming back.
Participants will learn about volunteer recruitment, management, and retention practices for volunteers in rural contexts. These volunteer strategies have been documented and tested in a diverse network of 34 different volunteer-based organizations in Appalachian and Western mining regions. Case studies presented will focus on volunteer management practices used for AML reclamation, such as volunteer water monitoring of AMD treatment system performance and Marcellus shale impacts, tree plantings on AML, and more.
Biography: Jenna Fehr is currently serving as an Office of Surface Mining/AmeriCorps*VISTA Volunteer with the Appalachian Coal Country Team in Beckley, WV. In this capacity, she serves as project researcher for the “Volunteers for Rural Watersheds” project led by Dr. T Allan Comp across seven Appalachian and two Rocky Mountain states. The goal of this research is to learn about rural volunteers and existing volunteer management practices to develop resources and a toolkit of best practices for rural watershed groups. Jenna is a native of Schuylkill County, PA, and holds a B.S. in Environmental Resource Management from Penn State University.
Contact Info: Jenna Fehr, Volunteerism Coordinator, Appalachian Coal Country Team, www.coalcountryteam.org
Andrew Heath, Renew Growing Greener (Sat)
Bio: Andrew Heath is the Executive Director of the Renew Growing Greener Coalition, the state’s largest coalition of recreation, conservation and environmental organizations. Andrew has a rich history of working with both nonprofits and political campaigns. Prior to holding this position, he worked for Jonas and Anne Beiler, founders of Auntie Anne’s Soft Pretzels, where he served as the Executive Director of the Beiler Family Office. Andrew has also worked on numerous campaigns on both a state and local level. Andrew is a graduate of Messiah College and lives in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.
Robert Hedin, Using Mine Drainage Solids in Manure Management (Fri)
Abstract: The solids produced through the treatment of mine drainage have high contents of Fe, Al, and Ca. These metals react readily with phosphate, a common nutrient pollutant in agricultural operations. Trout Unlimited and Iron Oxide Recovery recently completed a project that investigated the potential for using mine drainage solid residuals (MDR) for lessening the potential for phosphorus pollution from dairy and swine manure management operations. In Pennsylvania, a manure’s potential for producing phosphorus pollution is evaluated by measuring its Phosphorus Source Coefficient (PSC). The project determined that additions of MDR were able to decrease the PSC in a typical dose-effect manner. The amendment of 10 g/L MDR to high-P manure decreased the PSC by 50%. Several MDRs were tested and the best performing one was from a PADEP lime treatment plant. The development of these findings into a Best Management Practice for small and mid-sized dairy/swine farmers could create a demand for >50,000 ton/yr of MDR. This is more MDR than is currently produced in mine drainage treatment systems in PA. The talk will describe the general project results and discuss the implications for the mine drainage community should these results be developed into a Best Management Practice for manure management.
Bio: Bob Hedin is an ecologist who has been working on mine drainage for 25 years. Hedin Environmental, a small firm based in Pittsburgh, has designed forty passive treatment systems that treat a wide range of Pennsylvania’s AMD. Bob has also been involved in research recovery through Iron Oxide Recovery, a small company that has sold 3,000 tons of iron oxide in the lat decade. Because the amount of sludge currently exceeds the amount the market can consume, IOR is constantly looking for new values and markets. This project addresses a possible use that could greatly increase demand for mine drainage solids.
Contact Info: Robert Hedin, Iron Oxide Recovery, Inc. Web: http://www.environoxide.com
Mike Korb, The Conowingo Tunnel and the Anthracite Mine Flood-Control Project (Fri)
Abstract: A Historical Perspective on a “Solution” to the Anthracite Mine Drainage Problem 57 years ago, Pennsylvania’s Anthracite Mine Drainage Commission recommended that the Conowingo Tunnel, an expensive long-range solution to the Anthracite Mine Drainage problem, be tabled, and that a cheaper, short-range “job-stimulus” project be implemented instead.
Today Pennsylvania’s anthracite region has more than 40 major mine water discharges, averaging more than 285 million gallons per day. Two of these average more than 30 million gallons per day, ten more of the discharges are greater than 6, while another 15 average more than 1 million gallons per day. Had the Tunnel Project been completed, most of this Pennsylvania Anthracite mine water problem would have been Maryland’s mine water problem.
Between 1944 and 1954, engineers of the US Bureau of Mines carried out a comprehensive study resulting in more than 25 publications on all aspects of the anthracite mine water problem. The engineering study caused a recommendation of a fantastic and impressive plan to allow the gravity drainage of most of the Pennsylvania anthracite mines into the estuary of the Susquehanna River, below Conowingo, Maryland, by driving a 137-mile main tunnel with several laterals into the four separate anthracite fields. The $400 million (1954$) scheme was not executed, but rather a $17 million program of pump installations, ditch installation, stream bed improvement and targeted strip-pit backfilling was put into operation.
This review of a remarkable engineering study, discussion of some of its effects we might be observing today, and a look at the interim project that was implemented seem to suggest some potential solutions to alleviate today’s problems.
Contact Info: Michael C. Korb, P.E., Environmental Program Manager, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation, Wilkes Barre District Office, E-mail: mkorb@state.pa.us, Web: www.depweb.state.pa.us
Secretary Michael Krancer, A Look into the Direction of the PA DEP (Fri)
Michael Krancer was a Judge on the Pennsylvania Environmental Hearing Board (EHB), until he was nominated by Governor Tom Corbett to be Pennsylvania’s Secretary of the DEP. He was first nominated to serve as a Judge on the EHB by Pennsylvania Governor Tom Ridge in October 1999. In February 2003, Judge Krancer was named Chief Judge and Chairman. Before becoming a Judge, Mr. Krancer was a litigation partner at the Dilworth and Blank Rome law firms in Philadelphia. Judge Krancer stepped down from the EHB in April 2007 to devote full time to his candidacy for Justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court. Secretary Krancer became an Assistant General Counsel for the Exelon Corporation in June 2008. While with Exelon he provided legal counsel in the areas of environmental, health and safety compliance and litigation. He was asked by Governor Rendell to return to the EHB as a Judge in 2009.
Andy McAllister, Protecting The Good Samaritan: Can We Prevent The Perfect From Standing In The Way Of The Good? (Fri)
Abstract: The decision by US District Judge Irene Keeley, in what is known as the “Highlands” case, along with the decision by the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals in fall 2010, has created concern about the possibility of NPDES permits being required for Abandoned Mine Drainage treatment systems. Those court decisions bring up lot of good questions on the role of NPDES permits and the intent of the Clean Water Act. One possible solution is the creation of a Federal Environmental Good Samaritan Act, but is this the only solution? We will examine past efforts to create a Federal Environmental Good Samaritan Act, the political and other hurdles that stand in the way of such an effort, as well as other solutions that may help us address the threat of NPDES permits for Abandoned Mine Drainage treatment systems operated by our Good Samaritans.
Biography: With over 25 years of professional experience in the fields of Benthic Ecology (ecology of bottom-dwelling critters), Water Pollution Control, and Abandoned Mine Drainage abatement, Andy has worked throughout the eastern half of the U.S. and abroad. Andy has worked in the private sector as well in academia and government examining how aquatic life in marine, estuarine, and freshwater ecosystems react to and recover from many forms of pollution. Andy joined WPCAMR in 2006 as the Watershed Coordinator and then became the WPCAMR Regional Coordinator in February 2010.
Contact Info: Andy McAllister, WPCAMR, www.wpcamr.org
Theresa McDevitt, PhD, African Americans and Coal Mining in Western Pennsylvania (Fri)
Abstract: African Americans played a large part in the story of mining in the United States, though this part of history is often neglected in the telling of the miners’ story. This presentation will provide a brief overview of the history of blacks in American coal mining and a closer look at black experience in the coal mining towns of one Western Pennsylvania county in the early part of the 20th century.
Bio: Theresa McDevitt is a librarian and Humanities and Social Sciences Bibliographer at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She has a PhD in American History with a specialization in the history of African Americans and was the project director of a PHMC oral history grant which documented the experience of Blacks in Indiana, PA.
Jeff McNelly, AML-AMD Partnership between Watershed Groups and ARIPPA; “Their Legacy, Our Heritage, Everyone’s Future” (Sat)
Abstract: Thirty years ago, the most visible signs of the Anthracite and Bituminous Coal mining industry were the tall, dilapidated coal breakers and their attendant coal refuse piles (waste from coal mines, consisting of low BTU fine coal, coal dust, and dirt). Most of the breakers are gone, removed by the coal operators as liabilities or by local contractors under the AML Program as hazards. The coal refuse (boney-culm) piles have also been disappearing, mainly due to a US federal law passed about the same time as SMCRA, the Public Utility Regulatory Policies Act of 1978 (PURPA). This act together with circulating fluidized bed (CFB) technology and private/public investors created non-utility alternative energy generation power plants that have proven to be environmentally beneficial.
The first CFB plant in the USA was built in Chester PA and was fueled by coal refuse from Northeastern Pennsylvania. Soon thereafter several CFB plants were constructed among the vast Anthracite coal refuse piles found at formerly abandoned mine sites. These Anthracite regional plants formed an organization known as the Anthracite Region Independent Power Producers Association (ARIPPA) in 1989. Since that time the plants have collectively reclaimed more than 4500 acres of coal refuse (culm-bony) piles in Pennsylvania.
The presentation will outline and emphasize the historical perspective of the coal mining legacy and industry efforts to work in conjunction with EPCAMR and WPCAMR to improve the environment while generating needed alternative energy. The CFB technology utilized at ARIPPA plants often produce steam for generation of electricity and thermal energy to heat greenhouses or nursing homes within close proximity of a plant. Slides will clearly demonstrate the joint efforts and programs between EP-WPCAMR and ARIPPA to improve AML-AMD legacy damage. Today the acres of re-mined/reclaimed abandoned mine lands and the miles of clean streams serve as living proof of the industry’s “environmentally beneficial alternative energy” slogan. Presentation Specifics: PowerPoint Presentation: requiring computer, Power Point software, LCD projector, wireless (clip on) microphone and remote slide/pointer controls
Biography: Jeff currently serves as the Executive Director of ARIPPA, a trade association based in Camp Hill PA that represents independent, non-utility electric power generation plants located in the anthracite and bituminous coal regions of the United States. ARIPPA is unique among co-generation associations given that its sustaining plant member’s operate environmentally beneficial coal refuse to alternative energy power plants utilizing Circulating Fluidized Bed technology.
Prior to his current position Jeff served as President/CEO of PA Automotive Recycling Trade Society (PARTS), a statewide trade association. His background also includes campaigning as candidate for a seat in the PA House of Representatives, serving as Executive Director of the PA House Professional Licensure Committee, PA Association of Auto License Brokers (PAALB) and PA Messenger Solutions (PAMS) and Director of Marketing for the PA Farm Bureau Service Corporation, the largest association-corporation in PA.
He has served in leadership roles for the Automotive Recyclers Association, as well as the American Society of Association Executives, and is a Past President of the Pennsylvania Society of Association Executives.
He has achieved Certification as an Association Executive (CAE) and as a Meeting Planner (CMP) following years of association leadership experience. He graduated with honors from Arizona State University (Bachelor of Science: Business Administration) and Kutztown University (MBA: International Management/Marketing).
Contact Info: Jeff A McNelly, Executive Director, 2015 Chestnut Street Camp Hill PA 17011 Phone: 717 763 7635, Fax: 717 763 7455 Email: jamcnelly1@arippa.org, Web: www.arippa.org
Sandra McSurdy, Utilizing Acid Mine Drainage for Marcellus Shale Activities in Pennsylvania (Fri)
Abstract: Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh, Carnegie Mellon University, and the U. S. Department of Energy are examining uses for acid mine drainage (AMD) relating to water management in the Marcellus Shale Play. AMD is being considered for use as make-up water at well sites and could reduce the amount of freshwater needed along with associated transportation costs. Preliminary lab tests have also shown that barium, strontium and calcium can be removed from flowback water when it is mixed with sulfate and carbonate ions that are often found in AMD. Reusing treated flowback water for hydraulic fracturing will also reduce the amount of freshwater used on a site. In order to identify AMD availability near drilling sites, researchers have created a database containing 160 flowback water samples and 140 AMD sites in Pennsylvania which includes location, water quality and flow rate. Outlining beneficial reuse methods for AMD and flowback water can lead to better water management practices, lower freshwater use and decreased costs for the gas industry.
Bio: Ms. McSurdy has 21 years of federal service working with both the U.S. Department of Energy and the former U.S. Bureau of Mines in Pittsburgh, PA. She is currently a Physical Scientist, U.S. Department of Energy, National Energy Technology Laboratory, Pittsburgh, PA, where she is a project manager for the DOE oil and gas program but has spent the majority of her career researching environmental and energy issues including AMD treatment. Ms. McSurdy received her B.S. in Chemistry from the University of Pittsburgh in 1990.
Julia K. Mercer, Effective use of Calcium Reagents In AMD & AML Reclamation (Fri)
Abstract:“Lime” is a generic term applied to a variety of calcium-based reagents. This presentation will discuss the different types of calcium reagents available, their origin and their physical characteristics. This presentation will also discuss application methods for calcium reagents (quicklime, hydrated lime, lime kiln dust and waste lime), the effect preparation and mixing has on utilization efficiency of the reagent, as well as the reagent’s suitability for use in abandoned mine drainage treatment and abandoned mine land reclamation. Focus will be given on ways to maximize utilization efficiency of calcium reagents.
A research project undertaken by Carmeuse Lime & Stone (CLS) from May 2009 until May 2011 examined the effects of quicklime size, density and water temperature on the slaking reaction between quicklime and water. Results from slaking trials were analyzed for quantity of calcium hydroxide slurry produced from the slaking reaction, quantity of residue produced, quantity of unslaked quicklime in residue, viscosity, and particle size distribution. While mine drainage water was not specifically used for the experiments, certain extrapolations can be made based on the results and tips on how to slake quicklime effectively will be discussed.
Bio: Julia is a Technical Specialist in Environmental Markets with Carmeuse Lime and Stone. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree from Youngstown State in Chemical Engineering and is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree at the University of Pittsburgh in Environmental Engineering. Julia is responsible for technical customer support in environmental industries such as drinking water treatment, waste water treatment, abandoned mine drainage, abandoned mine land reclamation and remediation. She also performs research projects in these areas.
Contact Info:Julia K. Mercer, Technical Specialist, Environmental Markets, Carmeuse Lime & Stone Co., 3600 Neville Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15225 Phone: 412-777-0731, Fax:412-777-0727, julia.mercer@carmeusena.com
Joseph Pizarchik, Office of Surface Mining and Reclamation New Direction (Fri Lunch)
Joseph Pizarchik is the 10th Director of the U.S. Department of the Interior’s Office of Surface Mining Reclamation and Enforcement. Prior to joining OSMRE, Mr. Pizarchik served more than 17 years with the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP), rising to Assistant Director in the Bureau of Regulatory Counsel before his appointment as Director of the Bureau of Mining and Reclamation. While at PADEP, he co-authored Pennsylvania’s Environmental Good Samaritan Act, helped develop Pennsylvania’s program for volunteers to clean up abandoned coal refuse sites and provided key legal support in the development of Pennsylvania’s program for mine operators to establish trust funds to meet their financial obligation to perpetually treat the discharges caused by their mining. Mr. Pizarchik is also credited with helping clear the way for the sale of private mining property to the Families of Flight 93 to enable the construction of the memorial.
Mr. Pizarchik began his public service working as legal counsel with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, dealing with contracts, mass transit, aviation, contractor qualifications, and minority business enterprises. Mr. Pizarchik earned a B.A. from the Pennsylvania State University and a law degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock School of Law. In 2010 he was named a Penn State Alumni Fellow.
Elizabeth A. Ricketts, Effort to Nationalize Mines in the Late 19th and Early 20th Century (Fri)
Abstract: Well into the 20th Century, labor unions often had at least nominally socialist programs, even in the notoriously conservative United States. In Europe they routinely organized labor parties which competed in elections on socialist platforms, and sometimes won, though rarely implementing more than a few of their more modest goals, such as nationalizing railroads, mines, and some other industries.
Biography: Elizabeth A. Ricketts received her PhD from Emory University. An assistant professor of history at IUP, she teaches courses in labor, African-American, and women’s history. Her research and publications focus on the social, labor, and political history of coal miners in western Pennsylvania. She is currently engaged in co-authoring a book on 19th century work in America.
Margaret Stuckart , Mitigation Banking used for Restoration of Mine Drainage in Pennsylvania (Fri)
Abstract: The use of Mitigation Banks for replacing wetland and stream values and functions is relatively standard practice in the United States. We have proposed the use of a Mitigation Bank to restore a stream in western Pennsylvania that has been affected by mine drainage. Monies for mine drainage abatement in Appalachia have dwindled in recent years requiring innovative approaches to dealing with mine drainage contaminated waters. One possible avenue is to utilize private funds (through a not for profit private foundation), through development and associated environmental impacts, to provide the funding necessary to remediate mine water contaminated streams through an established mitigation bank.
We will discuss the trials and tribulations of this approach from planning and government perspectives, the potential benefits of this approach to mine drainage impacted regions in Appalachia, and the actual biological, chemical and physical approach of the treatment system that could allow for this approach to be effective.
Discussion of financial securities for system monitoring and maintenance and a performance based standards to provide for confidence in the banks success will also be provided.
Bio: Ms Stuckart has been the Executive Director of the Lyons Run Watershed Association since February 2009 and in this capacity is working to create a stream and wetland mitigation bank in Western Pennsylvania. An honors graduate of the University of Pittsburgh with an Earth and Environmental Sciences Degree, Margaret Stuckart has worked in the development field for over 27 years. She has provided consulting services to local communities and governments, private business, not for profit organizations, industrial development agencies, schools, regional and state-wide special interest groups and private individuals in the state of New York and Pennsylvania and with the Seneca Nation of Indians. Her consulting business has been employed to secure financial resources including extensive grant writing and administration; creation and implementation of demonstration projects; industrial and commercial facility development; industrial retention and expansion programming; human resource policy development; employment and industry matchmaking; short line rail development; various environmental initiatives and legislative support.
An avid and dedicated volunteer, Ms Stuckart has held the position of Chairman of the City of Salamanca Industrial Development Agency, Treasurer of the Salamanca Chamber of Commerce, President of the Salamanca Lions Club, Co-Chairman of the Pennsylvania Hardwood Industries Forum for PA Congressman John Peterson, Co-Chair Metal Industries Networking Group for NY Congressman Amo Houghton, and Coordinator of the Cattaraugus Partnership and Women in Business Southern Tier Networking Group. She currently is a member of the Lafayette Township Planning Board in Pennsylvania and President of the North West Pennsylvania Dog Training Association. She currently resides in northwest Pennsylvania with a former Iditarod musher and 26 sled dogs.
Contact Info: Margaret Stuckart Executive Director, Lyons Run Watershed Association, Lewis Run, PA 16738 (716) 640-2985 mlstuckart@verizon.net
Kate Totino, Grant Writing and Project Development Workshop Part 1: Seeking Community Foundations for Support (Fri Workshop)
See also Kurt Bauman (Part 2) and Branden Diehl (Part 3)
Abstract:
Grantseeking – The Foundation Center, Guidestar, Grants.gov, DEP (25 min)
Contact Info: Kate Totino and Kurt Bauman, NEPA Alliance Web: www.nepa-alliance.org
Amy G. Wolfe, How Trout Unlimited’s Free AMD Technical Assistance Program Can Help You (Sat)
Abstract: Since 2005, Trout Unlimited has provided free technical assistance to watershed organizations, Trout Unlimited chapters, county conservation districts, municipalities, and other groups and agencies across the Commonwealth on more than 70 AMD-related projects. Many groups have used the technical assistance to secure funding to successfully implement the recommendations or to make more informed decisions on better strategies and cost-effective solutions to addressing specific AMD problems. Technical assistance ranges from conceptual treatment design plans, evaluations of and recommendations for improving treatment system performance, and rapid AMD watershed assessments to biological surveys and more. Technical assistance is also available to groups who wish to update or obtain additional data to supplement existing restoration plans or develop new restoration plans as required for eligibility as a qualified hydrologic unit according to the Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation Acid Mine Drainage Set-Aside Program: Program Implementation Guidelines.
As grant programs for AMD remediation are becoming increasingly scarce and competition is rising for the few funding sources that remain available, groups need to be sure they have well-developed restoration goals, remediation strategies based on the best available and most cost-effective technologies, and the data to support both the goals and treatment strategies. Attend this presentation to learn how Trout Unlimited’s AMD Technical Assistance Program can give your group the competitive edge it needs to embark or continue down the path of AMD restoration success.
Bio: Amy is the Eastern Abandoned Mine Program Director for Trout Unlimited. She joined Trout Unlimited in 1999 as the coordinator for the Kettle Creek Home Rivers Initiative where she was responsible for the completion of numerous fish habitat and abandoned mine drainage remediation projects, restoration plans, and landowner stewardship and educational trainings and projects. In 2004, Amy led TU into launching the West Branch Susquehanna Restoration Initiative and now as Director of TU’s Eastern Abandoned Mine Program, Amy continues to expand TU’s efforts to restore trout and their watersheds that are impacted as a result of abandoned coal mines. Amy lives with her husband and their three children near Lock Haven, PA.
Jessica Wolff, MLA, BLA, LEED AP, EXTRACTIVE/ENERGETIC: The Adaptive Reuse of Minescapes as Landscapes of Renewable Energy in the Anthracite Coal Region of Northeastern Pennsylvania (Fri)
Abstract: Landscapes of extraction are experiencing a monumental and unsettling shift. What were once vessels of production and fruitful resources are now sites of exhaustion, depleting surrounding ecologies and economies. In the realm of extractive landscapes, coal mining towns and their corresponding abandoned “minescapes” have been some of the hardest hit. A century of industrial processes has forever changed the landscapes of these towns, leaving behind literal holes below ground and heaps above ground, as well as factory structures which embody the hard labor of previous generations.
What is the next chapter for extractive landscapes? To avoid the continuance of these landscapes as sites being transitory, liminal and forgotten, it is worth considering the plausibilities of renewable forms of energy and alternative means of stimulating economies. Layers of geological morphing coincide with layers of coal mining history, and the rising and falling of industrial economies. The future of these landscapes will depend on their success in redefining themselves as providers once again, while minimizing degradation and destruction and providing a variety of site uses for their adjacent communities. The ability for design to transgress regions as well as be implemented at a local scale allows for new ways of affecting the next wave of energetic landscapes.
This presentation offers innovative ways of reconsidering former mine sites through the lens of design, remediation and renewable energy systems. The research for this presentation included precedents in the lignite mining region of Germany.
Biography: Jessica Wolff recently graduated from the Harvard Graduate School of Design with a masters in landscape architecture. Prior to this she worked as a landscape designer and planner for EDAW/AECOM in Alexandria, Virginia. Her thesis focused on the adaptive reuse of former mine sites into renewable energy sites in the anthracite coal mining region of northeastern Pennsylvania. She has a bachelors in landscape architecture from Pennsylvania State University. Wolff has strong personal connections to the NEPA region as her mother is originally from Conyngham, PA.
Contact: Jessica Wolff, MLA, BLA, LEED AP, E-mail:jwolff@post.harvard.edu, Thesis Blog Site: http://www.jessicagwolff.com/
Todd Wood, P.E., Qualified Hydrologic Unit Process (Fri)
Abstract: Pennsylvania has over 5,000 miles of stream impaired by acid mine drainage (AMD). In 1990 an amendment was made to the federal Surface Mining Control and Reclamation Act of 1977 (SMCRA). The amendment allowed states and tribes to deposit up to ten percent of their grant into an AMD Abatement and Treatment Fund. Pennsylvania titled this fund the Ten Percent Set-Aside Fund. This fund was used to comprehensively abate the causes and treatment of AMD.
In 2006 SMCRA was reauthorized and allowed states and tribes to deposit up to thirty percent of their grant for AMD abatement and treatment. However, for auditing purposes, Pennsylvania decided to document that the Set-Aside Funds are being used in a comprehensive manner and within a Qualified Hydrologic Unit.
Pennsylvania developed a form that documents the compliance with SMRCA and titled it a Qualified Hydrologic Unit Determination. As part of the determination the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation (BAMR) must describe the Qualified Hydrologic Unit and determine if the unit’s AMD problems are being restored in a comprehensive manner with realistic and measurable goals. The Bureau is also responsible to determine if the unit is biologically impacted by AMD and is eligible under the SMCRA regulations.
Biography: Todd Wood is a Mining Engineer with the DEP Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation in Wilkes-Barre. He has been working for the Bureau since 1994. Prior to his work experience with DEP, Mr. Wood worked for Pennoni Engineering in Camp Hill as a bridge designer along with some surveying work.
Mr. Wood Attended Penn State and received an Associate Degree in Surveying and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Structural Design and Construction Engineering Technology. Mr. Wood has been an active licensed professional Engineer in Pennsylvania since 1997.
Contact Info: Todd M. Wood, P.E. Mining Engineer, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Bureau of Abandoned Mine Reclamation, Wilkes Barre District Office, E-mail: twood@state.pa.us, Web: www.depweb.state.pa.us