Pennsylvania Conservationists Recognized
To: ENVIRONMENTAL EDITORS
Contact: Jean Kummer of Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, +1-717-787-5085
HARRISBURG, Pa., July 24 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ — The State Conservation Commission recently recognized three individuals and three districts for their conservation efforts in the commonwealth.
“Conserving Pennsylvania’s natural resources is a top priority for the commonwealth,” said Agriculture Secretary Dennis Wolff. “With the leadership and guidance of those who support our programs, we are able to implement conservation practices that will protect Pennsylvania for future generations.”
William Lange of Clarks Summit was awarded the State Conservation Commission’s 2007 Distinguished Service Award. Each year, the award is given to an individual who demonstrates service and leadership to the commission and/or conservation districts. Lange dedicated 38 years to promoting responsible stewardship in Lackawanna County and by serving as a member of the commission, the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation Districts and the National Association of Conservation Districts.
Two recipients earned the Conservation Leadership Awards — Ron Rohall and John Dawes — for their efforts in promoting the reauthorization of the Pennsylvania Abandoned Mine Lands Campaign Fund. As a result, the commonwealth will receive $1.5 billion over the next 15 years for abandoned mine reclamation. Rohall, who lives in Rector, is a director for the Westmoreland Conservation District and chairs the Ohio Water Resources Regional Committee. Dawes, Alexandria, is the administrator of the Western Pennsylvania Watershed Program and recently received the 2007 Governor’s Award for Environmental Excellence.
The District Director Attendance Award recognizes the efforts of Pennsylvania’s 66 conservation districts working at the local level. Nearly 500 directors volunteer their time to help plan, direct and assist with programs to protect their county’s resources. Topping the list with the highest rate of director attendance is Columbia County, followed by Potter and Lawrence counties.
The Pennsylvania departments of Agriculture and Environmental Protection oversee the State Conservation Commission, an 11-member panel that provides oversight and support of the state’s 66 county conservation districts. The commission also enforces the Pennsylvania Nutrient Management Act program and supports the local administration of the state Dirt and Gravel Roads Maintenance Program, and several leadership development and public outreach and education programs.
CONTACT: Jean Kummer
(717) 787-5085
SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture
(c) 2007 U.S. Newswire. Provided by ProQuest Information and Learning. All rights Reserved.