It was another tough week for House Democratic Leadership. After failing to move any transportation funding bill, House Majority Leader Todd Eachus (D-Luzerne) finally announced Wednesday there are no further voting session days between now and the November 2 election in spite of a number of outstanding issues still being discussed with the Senate including a Marcellus Shale natural gas severance tax, pension reform and an independent fiscal office.

Matthew Ehrhart, Pennsylvania Office Director of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, sent this letter to all members of the Senate Friday saying if they don't meet their commitment to pass a Marcellus Shale natural gas severance tax in time to cleanup Pennsylvania's rivers and streams, it will cost Pennsylvania taxpayers billions of dollars.

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council sent this message to all Senators urging them to keep their written commitment to pass a Marcellus Shale natural gas severance tax to fund disappearing environmental programs--

Gov. Rendell wrote to Senate leaders this week and urged them to deliver on their promise to enact a severance tax on natural gas extraction this fall.

Here are the Senate and House Calendars and Committee meetings showing bills of interest as well as a list of new environmental bills introduced--

The Fish and Boat Commission this week formally recognized several waterways conservation officers, a local district attorney and four private citizens for their efforts in investigating a 2009 fatal boating incident on the Susquehanna River near Lock Haven, Clinton County.

Now you can follow issues and events related to the Ohio River Watershed Celebration and Port of Pittsburgh issues on Twitter and Facebook.

The Pennsylvania Environmental Council recently announced the winners of its 40th Anniversary Photo Contest showcasing some spectacular photographs of Pennsylvania landscapes.

The pace and extent of Marcellus Shale development across Pennsylvania can be seen in animated maps produced by the Penn State Marcellus Center for Outreach and Research.

The PA Resources Council, Allegheny County and other partners will hold a Hard To Recycle Collection Event On October 16 at The Mall at Robinson in Pittsburgh on October 16.

At the peak of elk viewing season in the Pennsylvania Wilds, Gov. Rendell this week officially opened the new Elk Country Visitor Center. The facility showcases a region known for its magnificent natural resources, majestic scenery and many opportunities to get an up-close view of wildlife.

The Western Pennsylvania Conservancy and the Keystone Trails Association are sponsoring a Bear Run Trail work days October 15-17 and are seeking volunteers to clear brush and blowdowns, painting blazes, and install signage where necessary. 

Every Fall, Pennsylvania puts on an unrivaled blaze of glory along its highways, country roads and coastline. With the touch of autumn's wand, rich and vibrant hues appear as far as the eye can see.

PA Environment Digest is a supporting member of the Pennsylvania Outdoor Writers Association, Pennsylvania Council Trout Unlimited and the Doc Fritchey Chapter Trout Unlimited.