The March 18 DEP Citizens Advisory Council meeting will feature a discussion of the FY 2014-15 budget request for DEP by Jeff Logan, Executive Deputy Secretary for Administration.

Other items on the agenda include a discussion of DEP and CAC priorities for 2014 and the regular report from DEP Secretary Chris Abruzzo.

DEP’s 15-page written report for March to the CAC.  Among the information included is: an update on proposed changes to Chapter 78 drilling regulations, finalization of the Policy on Public Participation in the Permit Review Process, an update on Environmental Education Grant applications received by DEP, a report saying about $12.5 million will be available for financial assistance this year through the PA Energy Development Authority, a note the final funding under the PA Sunshine Program will be awarded soon and a final report on the program is being prepared, notice that DEP will soon published the results of 2013 stream assessments under Sections 303(d) and 305(b) of the federal Clean Water Act, and an announcement DEP will seek the public’s help in developing a new in-lieu of fee program called the PA Integrated Ecological Services, Capacity Enhancement and Support Program that will allow permit applicants to offset their aquatic resource impacts and still meet state and federal permit requirements (see related article).

The meeting will be held in Room 105 Rachel Carson Building in Harrisburg starting at 10:00 (not 11:00).

For more information, visit the DEP Citizens Advisory Council webpage.

3/10/2014