DEP Has Renewed Watershed Specialist Funding Through 2012

The Western PA Coalition for Abandoned Mine Reclamation announced Friday, the Department of Environmental Protection has renewed funding for county Watershed Specialists through June of 2012.

"We are grateful for this news, especially considering all of the financial difficulties and budget cutbacks faced by our State today," said Andy McAllister, WPCAMR Watershed Coordinator.

"We're also grateful for the outpouring of support given to the Watershed Specialist program by individuals and organizations within the watershed community as a result of WPCAMR's Watershed Specialist advocacy campaign.

"It is the letters and emails in response to our call for action that, in part, gave the supporters of the program within the DEP the ammunition they needed to press for continued funding. The amount of support from you, our readership, and from within DEP is a testament to the value of the Watershed Specialist program.

"Without a doubt, this announcment from DEP is certainly good news for the watershed community and the Watershed Specialists in particular. However, after we've all breathed that collective sigh of relief, we must remember this isn't a permanent solution, it's merely a reprieve. Without a permanent funding source in place, the future of the Watershed Specialist program is precarious.

"With that in mind, WPCAMR will continue to work with members of our watershed community, the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts and other partners in advocating for permanent funding for the Watershed Specialist program."