WETLAND AND RIPARIANSTEWARDSHIP INPENNSYLVANIA

A Guide to Voluntary Options forLandowners, Local Governmentsand Organizations

Wetland and Riparian Stewardship in PennsylvaniaA Guide to Voluntary Options for Landowners,Local Governments and Organizations

This guide was developed by the Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay under a grant from thePennsylvania Nonpoint Source Pollution Control Program,

Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.Funding was provided by the Environmental Protection Agency

through Section 319 of the federal Clean Water Act.Special credit to the Private Landowner's Wetlands Assistance Guide:

Voluntary Options for Wetlands Stewardship in Maryland on which this guide was based.

June 1997

For information on availability of additional copies, please contact the Bureau ofWatershed Conservation, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection,at PO Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17110, (717)787-5259, or the Alliance for the ChesapeakeBay at (717)236-8825.

Recycled Paper

Table of Contents

Introduction ..................................................................................................1

Why Conserve Wetlands and Riparian Areas .........................................2

Compliance Requirements .........................................................................3

Choosing the Right Conservation and Restoration Strategies ..............4

The Decision Tree: Landowner Options for Conservation ....................5

Financial and Technical Assistance ProgramsFederal Programs............................................................................... 6State Programs .................................................................................12Nonprofit Organizations and Land Trusts .................................. 18Private Industrial Programs ........................................................... 25

Appendix 1: Success Stories in Riparian and WetlandConservation .............................................................................................. 26

Appendix 2: Chart of General Landowner Options forWetlands and Riparian Conservation...........................................27

Appendix 3: Selected References .............................................................31

Response Sheets (for agency personnel using guide) ..........................33

Introduction

In Dauphin County, a farmer installs a wetland toremove nitrates from shallow groundwater afteryears of applying too much fertilizer and manure tohis adjacent farm fields.

In Union County, a comprehensive greenway planwill create and connect vegetated corridors along themajor tributaries to the West Branch of the Susque-hanna River. Landowners will donate easements and/or development rights on future buffer areas, andplans are underway to devise a tax schedule forlandowners who donate land to be put into agreenway.

In Lancaster County, East Donegal Townshipreceived $25,000 from the state to purchase 35 acresof forestland along the Susquehanna River. Workingwith neighboring Marietta Borough, which alsoreceived $25,000, the land is being preserved as anatural area with a walking trail.

These stories illustrate the growing appreciationand interest in the conservation of wetlands and

What are Wetlands?

Wetlands include marshes, swamps and bogs as wellas some shallow water portions of rivers, lakes andponds. They are lands that are permanently orregularly flooded or remain saturated for extendedperiods of time during the growing season.

Wetlands are defined by the predominance of plantsadapted for life in wet soils (hydrophytes) and thepresence of periodically saturated or flooded soils(hydric soils).

streamside, or riparian, buffers. In many cases,the biology of a wetland or stream buffer aids instopping pollution at virtually the water's edge.In other cases, these natural ecosystems offersimple recreational opportunities.

Whatever the intended goal, the landownersand local governments mentioned above knewhow to obtain the technical and financial assis-tance necessary to create or preserve thesenatural treasures. This guide is intended to helpyou find similar avenues of assistance.

Since the majority of Pennsylvania's riparianlands and wetlands are privately owned, therole of the private landowner and citizen organi-zations in the conservation and restoration ofthese resources is significant. A number ofvoluntary conservation and management op-tions are available through federal and stateagencies, county conservation districts, andprivate organizations. The programs and con-tacts listed in this guide are designed to providethe reader with the essential tools for effectiveland stewardship.

What are Riparian Buffers?

A riparian buffer is a streamside area of trees orother vegetation which can intercept surface runoff,subsurface flow and deeper groundwater flows forthe purpose of removing or buffering the effects of

nutrients, pesticides or other chemicals from uplanduse, which could otherwise enter bodies of water.

Buffers may also serve other purposes, such asshading streams, providing food (leaf litter) for

stream insects, and stabilizing banks.

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Why Conserve Wetlands and Riparian Areas?

1. They Provide Multiple Environmental BenefitsDecades of deforestation, intense farming, mining,and questionable development patterns have addedfertilizers, nutrients, sediment and toxic compoundsto the witch's brew of stormwater runoff in both ruraland urban settings. Both wetlands and riparianbuffers purify runoff by trapping sediment, fertiliz-ers, bacterial and viral pathogens, chemicals, andheavy metals before they reach the nearest waterway.

The latest science indicates that wooded riparianbuffers are particularly effective at taking up nitrogenfor leaf, limb and root development, as well asremoving nitrogen through the forest floor wherebacteria convert water soluble nitrate into a harmlessnitrogen gas. Trees and shrub roots also holdstreambanks in place, preventing erosion.

Wetlands have an equally voracious appetite fornitrogen, and they are proving to be valuable low-tech alternatives to treating acid mine drainage fromabandoned mines. Their ability to consume nutrientsand break down organic matter has also earnedwetlands a place in the treatment of waste water,even to the point of providing tertiary treatment --the highest level of human waste water treatment.

Both riparian buffers and wetlands slow and storeflood waters, gradually releasing it as the water tablelowers. Their role as natural flood control devices iscritical for the state of Pennsylvania, the most flood-prone state in the nation. By slowing down stormwaters, buffer zones and wetlands also help rechargeunderlying groundwater.

2. They Provide Critical Wildlife HabitatNearly 70 percent of Pennsylvania's threatened orendangered species of wildlife use wetland habitat atsome point in their lives, and all game species usewetlands. Many species of waterfowl, aquaticanimals and mammals depend on riparian corridorsfor food, cover and nesting places. Fallen tree leavesbreak down into small organic particles that are the

major food source for many invertebrates, which inturn are food for forage fish, and so on down theaquatic food chain.

3. They Provide RecreationWetlands and riparian areas provide valuablerecreational opportunities for boating, fishing,hiking, camping, hunting, nature observation,photography, art and writing.

4. Their Existence is ThreatenedPennsylvania is graced by over 53,000 miles ofstreams and rivers, more stream miles than any otherstate excluding Alaska. Development and agriculturein particular have degraded natural forest canopiesthat once covered and protected thousands of streammiles. Most of the lost acreage of wooded buffers hasocccurred where their protection against pollutionand floodwater is most needed -- in the rapidlydeveloping sections of southeastern and southcentralPennsylvania.

In 1780, Pennsylvania had over 1,000,000 acres ofwetlands. Today, less than 404,000 wetland acresremain, covering less than 2 percent of the state'stotal land area. Most remaining wetlands are in theglaciated northeastern and northwestern corners ofthe state.

5. They Save Money and Make MoneyLike any worthwhile, long term investment, riparianbuffers and wetlands reap high returns. They savetaxpayers money by reducing downstream propertydamage caused by floods; they are cost-effectivealternatives in some cases to expensive steel tech-nologies in waste water treatment. They make moneyby attracting people and discrectionary spending torecreational hot spots, whether it's hiking along ariparian greenway or scouting for waterfowl in awetland. They add to property values by keepingnearby waterways clean and adding a touch ofnature to a developing world.

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Federal, state and local laws should be observedwhen undertaking conservation or restorationprojects in wetlands and areas bordering a body ofwater. A few of the most significant of these laws aresummarized below. Always consult with the countyconservation district, Department of EnvironmentalProtection, and other state agencies, such as thePennsylvania Game Commission, to ensure thatcorrect practices are used, rules and regulations arefollowed, and necessary permits are obtained.

Federal Protection(a) Section 404 of the Clean Water Act prohibitsunauthorized placement of dredged or fill materialinto waters of the United States, including mostwetlands. The program is administered by the USArmy Corps of Engineers with EPA oversight.

(b) The federal Farm Bill includes a "swampbuster"provision, which prohibits farmers who receiveUSDA benefits from draining, dredging, filling,leveling or otherwise manipulating a wetland afterNovember 1990. Wetland categories underswampbuster include natural wetlands, abandonedwetlands, converted wetlands, farmed wetlands andprior converted land. The 1996 farm bill gave farmersmore flexibility in complying with wetland conserva-tion requirements, such as providing more optionsfor mitigation.

Pennsylvania ProgramsThe Pennsylvania Department of EnvironmentalProtection (DEP) has jurisdiction for the protection ofwetlands and stream encroachments under Chapter105 of the Dam Safety and Encroachments Act of1978. The program requires DEP to issue permits foractivities and structures in watercourses, floodways,and bodies of water including wetlands. Commonregulated activities include filling of wetlands;construction of bridges, dams, docks, roads, andlevees; dredging bodies of water; and alteration ofstreambanks.

Many of the Commonwealth's 66 county conserva-tion districts also provide information on the pro-gram at the local level, register general permits, andperform on-site investigations to attempt to gainvoluntary compliance.

The Corps of Engineers has issued a state program-matic general permit (SPGP) recognizingPennsylvania's permitting process for many types ofactivities in wetlands. Under the Pennsylvania SPGP,the Department of Environmental Protection mayissue many permits that are considered to be suffi-cient to satisfy the requirements of Section 404 of theClean Water Act without further action by the Corps.

Municipal ProtectionUnder the Pennsylvania Municipal Planning Code(MPC), land can be zoned and designated for appro-priate uses. Zoning establishes legally tenable landuse options. Section 603 of the MPC authorizes localgovernments to regulate, permit, prohibit, restrictand determine uses of land, including wetlands andriparian zones.

The "Environmental Rights Amendment" of thePennsylvania Constitution (Act 1, Section 27) hasbeen interpreted by the courts as a responsibilityequally shared by the Department of EnvironmentalProtection and municipalities. Pennsylvania'smunicipalities have the responsibility to applySection 27 in planning and regulation of land use.

Compliance Requirements

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Choosing the Right Conservation and Restoration Strategies

▲What are the characteristics of the area's natural landscapes and watershed and

their suitability for conservation and development?

❒ Evaluate the specific property:▲Does the property have wetlands? If so, what type of wetlands (forested, marshes, bogs)?▲What is the condition of the property's

streambanks?▲What are the characteristics of the existing vegetation, soil, and wildlife habitats for the property's wetlands or riparian zone?▲Can the property be developed without damaging the wetlands? If the property contains wetlands sensitive to human intrusion and alteration, voluntary options allowing development, farming, or forestry of the area may threaten these areas. On the other hand, some well- planned development and recreational use may be compatible with the conserva tion wetlands.

❒ Assess problems and opportunities:▲Physical considerations: What is the suitability of the property for different

uses, its current condition, and its proxim- ity to highways and public facilities and services? Is the riparian area close to existing riparian conservation efforts, such as a greenway plan?

▲Legal limitations: Are there limitations placed upon the property or its wetlands or riparian zone by existing federal or state regulations, deed restrictions, and/ or municipal zoning?▲Market considerations: What is the property's potential use based upon local real estate trends and the property's physical characteristics?▲Financial considerations: What are the current and future likely costs and income related to maintaining the wetlands or

riparian buffer?

The right combination of actions is critical to thesuccess of any conservation or restoration program.Lifestyles, financial needs, conservation goals andtypes of wetlands or riparian areas vary for differentlandowners. Before beginning a conservation orrestoration program, landowners should examinetheir own situations, identify the factors influencingtheir decisions, and analyze areas of concern.

Defining goals, objectives, problems andopportunitiesA number of background factors central to thedecision making process can help landowners definetheir goals and objectives, survey their property, andassess problems and possibilities. Factors to beconsidered include:

❒ Establish the overall objectives and needs of the landowner:

▲What is the need for cash from the property's wetlands or riparian areas?▲What is the owner's ability to carry costs of owning and managing wetland or riparian properties?▲What are the owner's estate planning interests?▲What are the owner's interests in living on the property?▲What are the owner's conservation interests?▲What are the owner's interests in recre - ational pursuits or wildlife enhancements?▲Are there any special needs to be considered?

❒ Evaluate the general area:▲What are the land ownership patterns and interests of neighboring landowners?▲What are the land use trends and associ- ated agents of change, such as accessibil- ity and sewage treatment facilities?▲What are the current zoning and land use controls?▲What are the real estate market conditions?

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Once landowners evaluate their property and decidethey want to do something with their land, the nextstep is to decide whether they want to retain exclu-sive ownership and management of the wetland orriparian zone.

There are many management and ownership optionsavailable to landowners regarding the future stew-ardship of riparian zones and wetlands. In somecases, landowners may work one-on-one with aparticular agency or organization to meet their

The Decision Tree: Choosing the Best Options

objectives; in other situations, landowners maychoose to work with a local organization or govern-mental agency in a cooperative effort to manage aproperty's wetlands or streamside areas.

The following decision tree is a handy tool forgetting started in evaluating landowners' options. Amore detailed chart explaining the advantages anddisadvantages of these options can be found inAppendix 2.

Does the landowner wish to continue owning the wetlands or riparian area?

Yes No

Does the landowner wish to manage the Does the landowner wish compensationproperty exclusively? for selling property?

Yes No Yes No

Management agreements Conservation easements Sale: Donation:Technical assistance Leases • Full market value • Outright donationLimited development Mutual covenants • Bargain Sale • Donation by devise

options Limited development • Installment sale •Donation with reservedoptions • Right of first refusal life estate

Transfer of developmentrights

Does the landowner wish to voluntarilyrestrict future use of the property when thetitle is transferred?

Yes No

Conservation easements Normal transfer of(prior to transfer) title

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ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITYINCENTIVES PROGRAM (EQIP)Farm Service Agency,U.S. Department of AgriculturePurpose of Program:This new program combines the functions of theformer Agricultural Conservation Program andWater Quality Incentives Program and is directedtoward the solution of critical soil, water, and relatednatural resource problems.Eligible Applicants:Agricultural landowners or tenants whose landposes a serious problem to soil, water or relatedresources. Conservation priority areas will be estab-lished by each state to help meet specific waterquality objectives.Funding Structure:Establishes 5 to 10 year contracts to provide technicalassistance and pays up to 75 percent of the costs ofconservation practices. Limits total cost-share andincentive payments to any person to $10,000 annu-ally and to $50,000 for the life of the contract.Agency Contact:Contact your county Farm Service Agency office orFarm Service Agency, U.S. Department of Agricul-ture, Suite 320, One Credit Union Place, Harrisburg,PA, 17110 Contact: Rex Wright at (717) 782-4547.

CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM(CRP)Farm Service Agency,U.S. Department of AgriculturePurpose of Program:The CRP protects highly erodible and environmen-tally sensitive lands with grass, trees, and other long-term cover.

Eligible Applicants:Land must have been planted to an agriculturalcommodity in two of the five past years and mustmeet one of six critieria, including classification ashighly erodible or land that will be devoted to filterstrips, riparian buffers or similar practices.Eligible Projects:The CRP is a voluntary program that offers annualrental payments to farm owners or operators forplacing highly erodible cropland, cropped wetland,and marginal riparian pasture land into a reservethrough a 10-15 year contract. In return for annualpayments, the participant agrees to implement aconservation plan approved by the local conservationdistrict. CRP also offers cost-share assistance toestablish approved cover on eligible cropland andincentive payments for certain activities, such as therestoration of wetlands (Wetland Habitat IncentivesProgram)Funding Structure:CRP rental rates are calculated in advance of enroll-ment. Cost-share assistance is also available inestablishing approved conservation practices, not toexceed 50 percent. The program encourages restora-tion of wetlands by offering an incentive equal to 25percent of the costs incurred. Individual awardsrange from $50 to $50,000, avg. $5324.Special Conditions and Other Information:Applicants must have owned the land for at least oneyear prior to the close of the annual sign-up period,unless the land was acquired by will or succession orif the Natural Resources Conservation Servicedetermines the ownership was not acquired for thepurpose of placing the land in the ConservationReserve Program.Agency Contact:Contact your county Farm Service Agency, countyconservation district, or Farm Service Agency, U.S.Department of Agriculture, Suite 320, One CreditUnion Place, Harrisburg, PA 17110. Contact: RexWright at (717) 782-4547.

Financial and Technical AssistanceFEDERAL

PROGRAMS

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30-year easements, and 50 percent to 75 percent forrestoration cost-share agreements. Cost-sharing willhelp pay for restoration when approved practices arecompleted.Special Conditions and Other Information:Offer will not be accepted in excess of the value ofagricultural land adjusted for soil productivity.Agency Contact:Farm Service Agency, U.S. Department of Agricul-ture, Suite 320, One Credit Union Place, Harrisburg,PA 17110. Contact: Rex Wright at (717) 782-4547.

RURAL ABANDONED MINE PROGRAMNatural Resources Conservation ServiceU.S. Department of AgricultureEligible Projects:Conservation practices determined to be needed forthe reclamation, conservation, and development ofrural abandoned coal mine land or lands and watersaffected by coal mining activities, such as develop-ment of soil, water, woodland, wildlife, and recre-ation resources. The transformation of specified areasinto trails, waterways and open space could befunded.Eligible Applicants:Individuals, groups, or units of government whoown or control the surface or water rights of aban-doned coal land or lands, and water affected by coalmining practices.Funding Structure:Cost-share rates ranges from 25 to 100 percent.Special Conditions and Other Information:Applicants must develop, with the assistance ofNRCS, a reclamation plan as a basis for programassistance.Agency Contact:Contact your county conservation district, localNRCS office, or Natural Resource ConservationService, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Suite 340,One Credit Union Place, Harrisburg, PA 17110.

FEDERAL

PROGRAMS

CONSERVATION BUFFER INITIATIVENatural Resources Conservation Service,U.S. Department of AgriculturePurpose of Program:To encourage all landowners to find out more aboutbuffer strip establishment and the incentives avail-able through the 1996 Farm Bill.Eligible Projects:Grassed waterways, filter strips, contoured bufferstrips, riparian buffers, streambank protection areasor similar practices.Funding Structure:The initiative’s immediate focus is on a new, ongoingenrollment in the Conservation Reserve Program,which provides incentive payments for people whochoose to grow filter strips, riparian buffers, etc. onland that is environmentally sensitive. Competitivebids are not required as with the periodic CRPsignup. Incentives are also available for buffer stripestablishment through the Wildlife Habitat Incen-tives Program (WHIP), the Wetlands Reserve Pro-gram (WRP), and the Environmental Quality Incen-tives Program (EQIP).Agency Contact:Contact your Natural Resources ConservationService field office or NRCS, Suite 340, One CreditUnion Place, Harrisburg, PA 17110

WETLANDS RESERVE PROGRAM (WRP)Farm Service Agency,U.S. Department of AgricultureEligible Projects:Eligible landowners may offer farmed wetlands,prior converted wetlands, wetlands formed undernatural conditions, riparian areas, along with eligiblebuffer areas to be placed under a permanent or long-term easement.Eligible Applicants:An individual landowner, partnership, association,corporation, estate, trust, other business or otherlegal entities, and whenever applicable, a state, apolitical subdivision of a state, or any agency thereofowning private croplands.Funding Structure:Direct payments for specified use. Provides land-owners with 75 percent to 100 percent cost-sharingfor permanent easements, 50 percent to 75 percent for

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FEDERAL

PROGRAMS

ing utility services of any type; have land that issuitable for forestation if presently not in trees forreforestation or for improved forest management;have land that is capable of producing marketabletimber crops and meets minimum productivitystandards established for FIP. At least 10 acres ofeligible forest land is required for FIP.Funding Structure:The federal share of these costs ranges up to 65percent, depending on the cost share rate set by theFarm Service Committee in each state and county.Agency Contact:Contact your local Farm Service Agency office andapply for the program. They will then have the stateforestry agency examine your property and certifyneeds for the practice desired.

STEWARDSHIP INCENTIVE PROGRAM (SIP)Farm Service Agency,U.S. Department of AgriculturePurpose of Program:The Stewardship Incentive Program complementsthe practices recommended in Forest StewardshipPlans.Eligible Projects (related to riparian and wetlandprotection and improvement):Planting riparian forest buffers, stabilizingstreambanks, restoring original hydrology, streamfencing, establishing permanent vegetative cover.Eligible Applicants:Private individual, group or association; privatecorporation not involved in manufacturing forestproducts; must own between 5 and 1,000 acres offorestland in Pennsylvania.Funding Structure:Cost-share may not exceed 75 percent of actual costto establish practice. Participating landowners mayreceive reimbursement up to $10,000 annually.Practices must be maintained for a minimum of 10years.Agency Contact:Administered nationally by USDA Forest Service;administered cooperatively in Pennsylvania throughthe Farm Service Agency of USDA and the Bureau ofForestry, Department of Conservation and NaturalResources. Contact your local Bureau of Forestryservice forester or your local Farm Service Agencyoffice for assistance.

SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATIONNatural Resources Conservation Service,U.S. Department of Agriculture

Eligible Projects:Technical assistance to the general public in planningand applying soil and water conservation practicesand treatment and furnishing technical soil andwater conservation resource information to state andlocal governments.Eligible Applicants:General public, state governments and local govern-ments. Individuals and groups usually becomecooperators with local conservation districts, whoseassistance is needed for applying for these programs.Funding Structure:Not applicable (the program provides merely advi-sory services and counseling).Agency Contact:Contact your county conservation district, localNRCS office, or Natural Resources ConservationService, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Suite 340,One Credit Union Place, Harrisburg, PA 17110.

FORESTRY INCENTIVE PROGRAM (FIP)Natural Resources Conservation Service,U.S. Department of AgriculturePurpose of Program:To increase timber production by sharing the costs oftree planting, timber stand improvement, and otherrelated practices on nonindustrialized private forestlands.Eligible Applicants:A landowner must own no more than 1,000 acres ofeligible forest land and be a private forest landowner.Any individual, group, association, or corporationwhose stocks are not publicly traded may be eligibleprovided they are not primarily engaged in thebusiness of manufacturing forest products or provid-

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URBAN AND COMMUNITYFORESTRY PROGRAMPennsylvania Urban and Community ForestryCouncil, and Forest Service, USDA

Purpose of Program:To provide technical and financial assistance tocommunities, volunteers and professionals onestablishing and managing the urban forest. Theprogram is a cooperative effort between the USDAForest Service, Pennsylvania Urban and CommunityForestry Council, Penn State Cooperative ExtensionService, and Bureau of Forestry-Department ofConservation and Natural Resources.Eligible Projects:Projects to intensify the management of nonindus-trial private forests.Eligible Applicants:Owner of nonindustrial private forests.Funding Structure:Information, education, technical assistance andfinancial incentives. Guidance is given on applyingfor grants under companion stewardship programs.Special Conditions and Other Information:The companion Forest Stewardship Program wasestablished to develop a written Landowner ForestStewardship Plan that provides and documentsresource management direction and practices, whilethe Stewardship Incentive Program provides subse-quent tools and incentives to implement practicesrecommended in this plan.Agency Contact:Norman Lacasse, Urban Forestry and Utilization,Bureau of Forestry, Department of Conservation andNatural Resources, PO Box 8552, Harrisburg, PA17105; (717) 787-5359.

USDA FOREST SERVICE CHALLENGECOST-SHARE PROGRAMForest Service,U.S. Department of AgricultureEligible Projects:Partnership projects which benefit the public throughnational forest programs, such as recreation, fisher-ies, wildlife, conservation education, and minerals.Eligible Applicants:Any public or private agency, organization, institu-

tion, or individual may initiate a proposal.Funding Structure:Challenge cost-share agreements are drawn upwithin each forest district as appropriate on a non-competitive basis.Up to 50% match, with volunteerlabor and in-kind services considered eligible for thematch. Limited funds are available; however, allproposals are considered for effective public-privatepartnerships.Agency Contact:For general information in recreation, contact: DavidHarmer, USDA Forest Service—Recreation, P.O. Box96090, Washington, D.C. 20013-6090. Phone: 202-205-1035.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE CHALLENGECOST-SHARE PROGRAMNational Park Service,U.S. Department of the InteriorEligible Projects:Projects may include historic and archeological siterestoration; resource management, resource inven-tory and monitoring; scientific research; trail mainte-nance; interpretive videos for environmental orheritage education programs; interpretive exhibitenhancement; summer youth employment forrecreation activities; Congressional or Secretarialdesignated resource-specific projects which areoutside park boundaries and for which the Servicehas a cooperative and oversight role; federal assis-tance projects for the benefit of resources in whichthe Park Service has made, or is making, a majorinvestment of technical assistance; national scenictrails; national historic trails; state- managed wildand scenic rivers; projects in support of the nationalnatural landmarks and national historic landmarksprograms; and program-specific projects not tied to aparticular site or resource.Eligible Applicants:Partners may include any non federal government

FEDERAL

PROGRAMS

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livestock and wildlife, pesticide use reduction, nativeplant restoration and water level management.Eligible Applicants:Private landowners such as farmers, ranchers, or citydwellers, private organizations, local agencies,government agencies, corporations, educationalinstitutions or anyone interested in improving andprotecting wildlife habitat on private lands.Funding Structure:Technical assistance is offered. Projects meetingcertain criteria may be eligible for a cost-share ortotal coverage by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.Actual restoration cost is approximately $1000 peracre of restored wetland.Agency Contact:Dave Putnam, Partners for Wildlife Coordinator, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, 315 South Allen Street,Suite 322, State College, PA 16801; telephone (814)234-4090.

NATIONAL COASTAL WETLANDSCONSERVATION GRANTSFish and Wildlife Service,U.S. Department of the Interior.

Eligible Projects:Funds are used for acquisition of interests in coastallands or waters and for restoration, enhancement ormanagement of coastal wetlands ecosystems on acompetitive basis with all coastal states.Eligible Applicants:Available to all states bordering on the Atlantic andPacific Oceans, the Gulf of Mexico and the GreatLakes.Funding Structure:Project grants (average $150,000) may be madeavailable for grants to coastal states for the conserva-tion of wetlands. The federal share of project costs isnot to exceed 50 percent; however, the federal sharemay be increased to 75 percent if a coastal state hasestablished a trust fund for the purpose of acquiringcoastal wetlands, other natural areas or open space.Agency Contact:U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, U.S. Department ofthe Interior, Washington, D.C. 20240,Contact: Bob Pacific 703-358-1845.

entity, private individual or organization, busi-ness, or philanthropic or charitable group. Thevalue of the partner’s contribution may be derivedfrom labor, materials, equipment, cash or otheritems of value to the project.Funding Structure:Matching program, with National Park Serviceproviding up to 50%, for projects benefitingnational park units or other programs adminis-tered by the National Park Service. Once awarded,a written cooperative agreement is required.Special Conditions and Other Information:50% match from others must be non-federal sourceof funds. Donations must be managed in accor-dance with the requirements of Office of Manage-ment and Budget Circular A-110.Agency Contact:Mr. Richard Cripe, National Park Service Chal-lenge Cost-Share Program, National Park Service800, P.O. Box 37127, Washington, D.C. 20013-7127.Phone: 202-501-0226.

PARTNERS FOR WILDLIFEFish & Wildlife ServiceU.S. Department of the Interior

Purpose of Program:This program restores fish and wildlife habitatthrough partnerships between the US Fish andWildlife Service, Ducks Unlimited, PennsylvaniaGame Commission, Natural Resources Conserva-tion Service, county Conservation Districts,private landowners, and the National Fish andWildlife Foundation, among others. Reestablish-ment of wetlands, riparian areas and nativegrasslands is the main focus.Eligible Projects:Wetland restoration, nest structures or islands,food and shelter for wildlife, soil and waterquality improvement, grazing plans to benefit

FEDERAL

PROGRAMS

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FEDERAL TAX INCENTIVE (Through theFarmer’s Tax Guide)

Eligible Projects:Forestation or reforestation of land.Eligible Applicants:Farmers who have spent up to $10,000 in expenses toforest or reforest property that is held for growingtrees for sale or use in commercial production oftimber products.Funding Structure:The 10% reforestation credit applies to up to $10,000of expenses incurred each year to forest or reforestproperty held for growing trees for sale or use in thecommercial production of timber products. Theseexpenses must qualify for amortization. Investmentcredit can be taken for reforestation expenseswhether the landowner chooses to amortize them oradd them to the basis of the property.Agency Contact:Internal Revenue Service, Government PrintingOffice, Superintendent of Documents 202-512-1800 oryour local IRS office is listed in the blue pages ofyour phone directory. When requesting informationask for: Publication 225, Farmer’s Tax Guide.

DEBT REDUCTION ASSISTANCERural Development Farm Service Agency,USDA

Purpose of Program:The Farm Service Agency provides debt reductionassistance on agricultural operating loans in ex-change for conservation easements. Conservationcontracts are placed on easement acreage, whichcould be wetlands, woodlands, or other areas withconservation purposes. Local committees determinethe value of debt forgiveness.Agency Contact:Local Farm Service Agency Offices.

FEDERAL

PROGRAMS

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STATE

PROGRAMS Financial and Technical Assistance

ADOPT A STREAM PROGRAMPennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission

Purpose of Program:Provides the opportunity for assistance, support, andguidance to those organizations or individualswilling to enhance and restore particular waterwaysthat will benefit from such projects. The goal is toimprove, restore, and protect riparian and aquaticfisheries habitats through a cooperative effort withother agencies, organized groups and individuals.Eligible Projects:Fish habitat improvements such as enhancement ofexisting habitats through minor physical alterations;fish habitat restoration such as rebuilding of habitatsdestroyed by natural or manmade causes; and streamcorridor management including enhancement,restoration, and protection of stream corridorsthrough the establishment of protected streamsidebuffers by various control and stabilization methods.Eligible Applicants:Any organization or private individual may beapproved as a cooperator for a particular stretch ofstream or body for a minimum of five years. Watersmust be open to public fishing, biologically suitable,and in need of aquatic or riparian improvements orrestoration.Funding Structure:Much of the program is funded as technical guidancewith up to $500 per year on a matching basis forcertain materials for the projects.Special Conditions and Other Information:Waters on public lands are eligible providing writtenpermission and an approval is obtained by thecooperator from the controlling agency. Waters onprivate lands are also eligible, but written assurancethat the water will remain open to public fishing for aminimum of ten years is required on Form PFBC-60by all landowners involved. This agreement must beobtained by the cooperator before any improvementbegins. The Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commissionmay contribute planning assistance, supervision and

tools, materials, permits and certificates to eachsponsor. A matching provision in the form of labor,materials, and equipment is needed to receivematerial funding to complete the project. Mainte-nance and repair of all fish habitat improvementwork is required for a period of ten years aftercompletion.Agency Contact:David Houser, Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commis-sion, Bureau of Property and Facilities Management,450 Robinson Lane, Bellefonte, PA 16823-9616.Phone: 814-359-5185.

COOPERATIVE FORESTRYASSISTANCE PROGRAMBureau of Forestry, Department of Conservationand Natural Resources

Purpose of Program:Encourage landowners to enhance the productivecapacity of existing forests and reforest abandonedfarm land. Several specific programs are included inthe overall cooperative forestry effort. Each programhas its own details.Eligible Applicants:Forest land owners with land that is forested orsuitable for growing trees.Funding Structure:Each county Farm Service Agency office establishes acost share rate for services rendered under thisprogram. This is a technical assistance program.Agency Contact:PA Department of Conservation and Natural Re-sources, Bureau of Forestry, Division of ForestAdvisory Services, P.O. Box 8552, Harrisburg, PA17105-8552. Phone: (717) 787-2106.

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FOREST STEWARDSHIP PROGRAMDepartment of Conservation and NaturalResources and Cooperating Agencies

Purpose of Program:Provides information, education, and technicalassistance to encourage, assist and recognize privateforest landowners who keep their lands and naturalresources productive and healthy.Eligible Applicants:Non-industrial, private forest landowners, or munici-pal authority-owned land. Landowners must own atleast five acres of forest land to qualify for use ofprogram services. Participants must agree to workwith a professional resource manager to develop awritten forest stewardship plan.Funding Structure:The program will cover up to 75 percent of the costsof developing the plan and implementing approvedforest stewardship practices. Cost-share assistance isavailable for the development of a forest manage-ment plan. Cost-share assistance for implementingpractices is available through a companion program,the Stewardship Incentive Program (see SIP).Special Conditions and Other Information:Work must be completed within the time frameestablished by the service forester, usually 6 to 18months and be maintained for 10 years.Agency Contact:Pennsylvania Department of Conservation andNatural Resources, Bureau of Forestry, Division ofForest Advisory Services, Ellen Roane, ProgramCoordinator, P.O. Box 8552, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8552. Phone: 717-787-2105.

STATEPROGRAMS

STATEWIDE NONPOINT SOURCEPOLLUTION PROGRAMFederal Clean Water Act- Section 319 NonpointSource Implementation Grants

Purpose of Program:To provide grants for local nonpoint source pollutionprojects.Eligible Projects:Watershed assessments, watershed projects andprojects of statewide importance are the three projectcategories eligiblie for funding. The followingnonpoint source categories can be addressed: agri-culture, silviculture, construction, urban runoff,resource extraction (abandoned mines, oil, and gaswells), on-lot septic systems, and hydrologic/habitatmodification (stream bank modifications).Projects must be implementation-oriented, demon-strate new techniques, and document “measurable”environmental results. Comprehensive watershedprojects are encouraged.Eligible Applicants:No limitations; local, state, and federal agencies;private non-profit organizations; watershed associa-tions; colleges and universities; private companiesare all encouraged to submit project proposals.Funding Structure:Annual grant cycle with two-year implementationperiod for grant projects. Approximately $2 millionto $3 million per grant.A minimum of 25 percent of construction costs ofpractices implemented on private lands must comefrom non-federal sources. The State must match thegrant by 40 percent. Watersheds in the state arenonpoint source priority-ranked with emphasisplaced on Comprehensive Watershed Projects in highpriority areas.Agency Contact:Chief, Nonpoint Source Management Section,Bureau of Watershed Conservation, PennsylvaniaDepartment of Environmental Protection,10th Floor,RCSOB, P.O. Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8555.Phone: 717-772-5629.

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PENNSYLVANIA CHESAPEAKE BAYPROGRAMDepartment of Environmental Protection andCooperating Agencies

Purpose of Program:To reduce pollution reaching the Chesapeake Bayfrom the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.Eligible Project:Provides assistance to help private citizens decreasenutrient and toxic runoff from agriculture and urbansources. The Pennsylvania Chesapeake Bay Programis spilt into four focus areas: (1) education to improvepublic awareness of Pennsylvania’s impact on theChesapeake Bay through a variety of grassrootseducational effort; examples include brochures,television spots, and specialized workshops; (2)planning to ensure the wise use of technical andfinancial resources by conducting water qualityassessments; monitoring rivers, streams and farmfields, and computer modeling of best managementpractices (BMPs)to target nutrient pollution problemsin Pennsylvania’s portion of the Chesapeake water-shed; (3) technical assistance, hands-on support, andguidance are offered by nutrient managementspecialists and technicians in the implementation ofbest management practices to decrease nutrientrunoff and conserve soil and water; and (4) financialassistance to assist in the design and implementationof nutrient control and soil conservation BMP’s.Eligible Applicants:Agricultural landowners, government agencies,conservation districts, cooperating organizations.Funding Structure:Financial Assistance up to $30,000 available peragricultural landowner to assist in the design andimplementation of nutrient control and soil conserva-tion best management practices.Special Conditions and Other Information:To receive financial assistance, you must become acooperator with a participating conservation district

and consent to the development of a nutrient man-agement program.Agency Contact:County conservation district or Russ Wagner, Bureauof Water Quality Protection, Pennsylvania Depart-ment of Environmental Protection, 11th Floor,RCSOB, P.O. Box 8465, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8465.Phone: (717)787- 2666.

PENNSYLVANIA STREAM BANKFENCING PROGRAMDepartment of Environmental Protection

Purpose of Program:To accelerate Pennsylvania's efforts to improve waterquality by reducing soil erosion and nutrient deposi-tion caused by livestock.Eligible Applicants:Only those landowners with existing livestockoperations along streams in the Susquehanna orPotomac River Basins of Pennsylvania.Funding Structure:All costs associated with installation of the fence andcrossing ramp are paid by DEP. This includes allfencing materials, including treated posts, wire, solarenergizer, lightning protectors, and warning signs,and stone material for agricultural ramps or agricul-tural crossings.Special Conditions and Other Information:The landowner agrees to sign a consent form forright of entry allowing DEP to erect a fence and anynecessary crossing or ramp on the landowner'sproperty; performs all required notifications andobtains all necessary permits and approvals to installthe agricultural crossings and ramps; designateslocation of any known underground utilities andindicates boundary of property line where proposedfacilities would be close to adjoining property; asrequired, clears vegetation from proposed fence lineinstallation site; provides at least an average 12 footstream corridor width as measured from top ofstream bank to parallel fence line; after installation,removes any vegetation and other debris whichcould ground the electric fence; maintains the fencefor ten years and the crossing or ramps in accordancewith GP-6 provisions; allows periodic inspection ofproject area by authorized representatives of DEPand its agents; if landowner fails to maintain facili

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PROGRAMS

ties according to program guidelines, agrees torefund to DEP all or equitable part of the costs ofinstalling the fence and any crossings or ramps.Agency Contact:Landowners wishing to indicate their interest in theDEP Stream Bank Fencing Program should contacttheir county conservation district or phone theHarrisburg central office of DEP-Bureau of WaterQuality Protection at (717)787-2666.

WETLAND RESTORATION / CREATIONSITE REGISTRYDepartment of Environmental Protection

Purpose of Program:The purpose of this registry is to link propertyowners who desire to have wetlands created orrestored on their property with individuals who arerequired to replace wetlands as a result of permittingactions authorized by the Department of Environ-mental Protection. Property owners must be awarethat created wetlands will become regulated andpermits may be required for certain activities in theseareas, such as earth-moving. The only purpose ofthis registry is to register potential sites for wetlandreplacement. There is no guarantee that sites onceregistered will be used for wetland replacement.Special Conditions:Registration does not obligate or mandate theproperty owner to create wetlands. The project is ofno cost to the property owner, and the propertyremains private property.Agency Contact:For more information on this new program contact:Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protec-tion, Bureau of Water Quality Protection, Waterways,Wetlands and Erosion Control, P.O. Box 8554, Harris-burg, PA 17105-8554.

PASTURE STREAM BANKFENCING PROGRAMPennsylvania Game Commission

Purpose of Program:To establish wildlife habitat along stream corridorswhich is accessible to the public for hunting. Im-provements in herd health, water quality, andwildlife habitat conditions are all benefits of theprogram.Eligible Projects:Installation of high quality electric fencing andplanting of trees and shrubs that are suitable forstreambank stabilization and wildlife food and cover.Eligible Applicants:Landowners who own livestock and are enrolled inthe Pennsylvania Game Commission’s Public AccessProgram, which opens private land to public huntingand trapping.Funding Structure:Ranges anywhere from a few donated shrubs fromlocal organizations to an all expense paid streambank fencing project, depending on what a particularfarm situation dictates.Special Conditions and Other Information:Participating landowners must agree to maintain thefencing in place for a ten-year period to allow thevegetation a chance to establish. Special trees andshrubs will be added to stabilize stream banks andprovide nests and seeds for birds. Generally, thefence must be placed a minimum of 10 feet from thestreambank.Agency Contact:Dennis Neideigh, Pennsylvania Game Commission,Bureau of Land Management, 2001 Elmerton Avenue,Harrisburg, PA 17110-9797. Phone: 717-787-6400.

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CLEAN AND GREEN TAX INCENTIVES(THE PENNSYLVANIA FARMLAND ANDFOREST LAND ASSESSMENT ACT)Department of Agriculture

Purpose of Program:The County Board of Assessment can grant a prefer-ential assessment for ten or more contiguous acres ofland devoted to agricultural, forest reserve, or openspace purposes. Land is assessed at the use valuerather than the prevailing market value. This pro-gram can also apply to land in the riparian zone,although there is no requirement for forests to be inthe riparian zone.Agency Contact:Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, 2301 N.Cameron Street, Harrisburg, PA 17110; (717)783-3167.

KEYSTONE FUNDDepartment of Conservation andNatural Resources

Purpose of Program:To provide financial assistance to municipalities andorganizations for the planning, acquisition, develop-ment and/or rehabilitation of public park, recreationand conservation areas and facilities, rails-to-trailsprojects, and rivers conservation projects.Eligible Projects:1) Community Grant Program - Provides grants tomunicipalities not to exceed 50 percent of eligiblecosts for recreational projects, including grants toexplore linear corridors of open space along streams,shorelines, wetlands, ridge tops, etc. Small communi-ties require no match.2) Rails-to-Trails Grant Program - Provides grants tomunicipalities and organizations not to exceed 50percent of eligible costs for rail-trail feasibilitystudies, master plans, and special purpose studies.

3) Rivers Conservation Grant Program - Providesgrants to municipalities and organizations not toexceed 50 percent of eligible costs to develop riverconservation plans and to implement specific projectsfor a river that is on the Pennsylvania Rivers Conser-vation Registry.4) Land Trusts Program - Provides grants to pre-qualified non-profit land trusts and conservanciesnot to exceed 50 percent of eligible costs for theacquisition and planning of open space and criticalhabitat areas.Agency Contact:Department of Conservation and Natural Resources,Bureau of Recreation and Conservation, PO Box 8475,Harrisburg, PA 17105-8475.Community grants contact: Bureau of Recreation andConservation Field Offices;Rails-to-Trails contact: Wilmer Henninger (717)772-3704;Rivers Conservation grants contact: Bureau of Recre-ation and Conservation Field Offices or MarianHrubovcak (717)787-2316.Land Trust grants contact: Fred Owen (717)783-2663.

PENNSYLVANIA RECREATIONALTRAILS PROGRAMDepartment of Conservation and NaturalResources

Purpose of Program:To provide grants for trail and trail-related projects.Eligible Projects:Redesign or relocation of trails to minimize impact tothe natural environment; urban trail linkages,maintenance of existing trails, development of trail-side or trail-head facilities, acquisition of easementsfor trails, and others.Eligible Applicants:Private individuals and organizations and local, stateand federal agencies.Funding Structure:Minimum $2,500 grant to maximum $20,000 grant. 50percent matching ratio. Funds are provided throughthe federal Intermodal Surface TransportationEfficiency Act (ISTEA) and the Symms' NationalRecreational Trails Act and are administered inPennsylvania by the PA Department of Conservation

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CONSERVATION DISTRICT PROGRAMSCounty Conservation Districts (all countiesexcluding Philadelphia County)

Purpose of Conservation Districts:Created under the Conservation District Law, countyconservation districts are subdivisions of localgovernment that provide the link between citizensand the multitude of local, state and federal naturalresource management programs. A board of volun-teer directors serves as the local voice in naturalresource management, and a staff of professionals ineach county provides information, technical assis-tance and educational programs.Types of Assistance:Environmental education; technical assistance tocounty residents related to Chapter 105 regulations(streams, lakes and wetlands), Chapter 102 regula-tions (erosion and sedimentation), nutrient manage-ment on farms, mine land reclamation, andstormwater management; coordination and facilita-tion of watershed management; farmland preserva-tion; and other land use issues of importance to acounty.Most conservation districts hold annual tree seedlingsales for the purpose of providing low-cost bare-rootseedlings to the public for conservation purposes.Agency Contact:County conservation district office locations can befound in your phone book - check governmentlistings.

PENNSYLVANIA COASTAL ZONEMANAGEMENT PROGRAMDepartment of Environmental Protection

Purpose of Program:To protect and enhance Pennsylvania's coastal zones:the Lake Erie coastline and the shorelines of its manytributaries and the Delaware Estuary which includes

and Natural Resources.Agency Contact:Pennsylvania Recreational Trails Program, PO Box8475, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8475; Vanyla Tierney(717)783-2654.

part of Bucks, Philadelphia and Delaware counties.Eligible Projects:Education, forest buffer projects in the coastal zone,stormwater management, and other projects thatmeet the goals of PA's Coastal Zone ManagementPlan.Eligible Applicants:Local governments and organizations.Funding structure:Maximum of $30,000 per project.Agency Contact:Jim Tabor, Bureau of Watershed Conservation,Department of Conservation and Natural Resoruces,PO Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8555; (717)772-5626.

PENNSYLVANIA LANDOWNERRECLAMATION PROGRAMDepartment of Environmental Protection andCounty Conservation Districts

Purpose of Program:To assist property owners reclaim abandoned minelands where bonds have been forfeited.Eligible Projects:Constructed wetlands and tree plantings can beintegrated into an approved conservation plan.Eligible Applicants:An abandoned site must have forfeited bondscollected by the Department of EnvironmentalProtection. Landowners asssume reclamation respon-sibility.Funding Structure:Forfeited bonds collected by the Department aremade available to repair landscapes damaged by coalmining. Some sites do not carry sufficient bonds tomake landowner reclamation attractive.Agency Contact:County Conservation District.

STATEPROGRAMS

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Financial and Technical Assistance

MARSH PROGRAMDucks Unlimited

Purpose of Program:The Matching Aid to Restore States Habitat(MARSH) Program funds projects significantlybenefitting waterfowl.Eligible Applicants:Public agencies and private conservation groups.Private landowners can benefit from the fundingprovided through MARSH if waterfowl and habitatrestoration projects on their property are part of anapproved group project.Eligible Projects:Priority is given to projects that lead to the protectionand/or restoration of North American WaterfowlManagement Plan sites, benefitting non-game,threatened or endangered species, unique habitats orecosystems, and/or high public visibility or interpre-tive values.Funding Structure:Maximum cost-share assistance is 50 percent. Projectswith cost-share assistance up to $25,000 are givenfinal approval by the regional MARSH coordinator;projects exceeding this threshold are submitted toNational Headquarters for review.Agency Contact:MARSH Program Coordinator, 1155 ConnecticutAvenue, NW, #800, Washington, D.C. 20036.

STREAM DOCTOR PROJECTSave our StreamsThe Izaak Walton League of America

Purpose of Program:To provide volunteers, government employees,businesses and others a chance to learn about envi-ronmentally sound approaches to stream habitatrestoration techniques using bioengineering. Bioengi-

neering combines the use of vegetation and naturalstructures to stabilize eroding streambanks and toprotect habitat.The Stream Doctor Program offers periodic work-shops, educational videotapes, and other educationalmaterials.Organization Contact:The Izaak Walton League, SOS Stream Doctor Project,707 Conservation Lane, Gaithersburg, MD 20878-2983. Stream Doctor hotline at (800) BUG-IWLA.

NATURAL AREAS REGISTRIESThe Nature Conservancy

Purpose of Program:To honor private landowners of outstanding naturalareas. The registry is a voluntary, non-binding andnon-regulatory program. Enlisted property ownerscommit to preserve and protect the area to the best oftheir ability, notifying the The Nature Conservancy ofany threats to the area or of any intent to sell ortransfer ownership of the property. The Conservancywill visit the registered area annually to assesschanging conditions and identify new threats.Eligible Projects:Property must contain one or more of these naturalvalues: habitat for plants or animals with decliningpopulations, plant communities characteristic of thenative vegetation, and/or outstanding naturalfeatures such as virgin forests or bogs.Organization Contact:The Nature Conservancy,2 Wisconsin Ave., ChevyChase, MD 20815.

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WETLANDS CONSERVATION PROJECTSNational Fish and Wildlife Foundation

Eligible Projects:Funded wetland conservation projects usually coverthree program types: 1)acquisition of wetlandresources, both in-fee title and conservation ease-ments; 2) wetland restoration and enhancementprojects, particularly those on private lands, and 3)applied research on wetland management tech-niques, restoration or enhancement projects.Eligible Applicants:No restrictions.Funding Structure:No maximum limit set; 50 percent match required.Organization Contact:Holly Quirk, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation,1120 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 900, Washing-ton, D.C. 20036; (202)857-0166.

GRASSROOTS CONSERVATION PROJECTSFish America Foundation and Wildlife Forever

Purpose of Project:To provide grants to grassroots civic and conserva-tion organizations to fund aquatic resource projects.Eligible Projects:Habitat restoration, fish population improvement,and educational projects with a hands-on fisheryimprovement component. FishAmerica funds action-oriented projects conducted by volunteers.Eligible Applicants:Non-profit organizations, agencies, and institutionsin the United States and Canada.Funding Structure:$10,000 maximum grant. $200,000 invested in 1997.Organization Contact:Tom Marshall, Fish America (703)548-6338Doug Grann, Wildlife Forever (612)936-0605

LAND TRUSTS

Land trusts are private, nonprofit corporations thatuse a variety of mechanisms to protect land andland resources. Usually the most common type ofland targeted for protection includes wildlifehabitat or natural areas, open spaces, recreationalland, especially trail and river corridors, andfarmland. Land trusts protect the land throughdirect acquisition. The lands are bought with moneyobtained from individual donation, fund raisingand memberships. Trusts also protect land throughconservation easements, whereby the landownergives up development rights in perpetuity, retainsownership and becomes eligible for some taxbenefits.

Contacts:-The Pennsylvania Land Trust Association is analliance of approximately 50 Pennsylvania landtrusts. The Association is a private organization thatserves as a clearinghouse for information and aunified voice for the state's land trust. It providessome technical assistance to landowners andmatches them with local land trusts.3701 Orchid Place, Emmaus, PA 18049(610)965-4397

National land trust organizations:-Trust for Public Lands, 666 Pennsylvania Ave., S.E.,#401, Washington, D.C. 20003; (202)544-4723-Land Trust Alliance, Suite 501 1319 F. St., NW,Washington, D.C. 20004-1106; (202)638-4725-American Farmland Trust, 1920 N Street, NW,Washington, D.C. 20036; (202)659-5170- North American Land Trust, PO Box 134, ChaddsFord, PA, 19317; (610)388-3670

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BUSHKILL STREAM CONSERVANCYPO Box 637, Easton, PA 18044Attn: John Bennett, Jr., PresidentPhone: (610)253-4211Service Area: Bushkill Stream watershed

CENTRAL BUCKS LANDPRESERVATION TRUST3830 Ellen Place, Doylestown, PA 18901Attn: Lori Rosolowsky, CoordinatorPhone: (215)348-7637Service Area: Bucks County

CENTRAL PENNSYLVANIA CONSERVANCYPO Box 587, Harrisburg, PA 17101Attn: Carol Witzeman, ChairPhone: (717) 233- 0221Service Area: Central Pennsylvania

CENTRE COUNTY FARMLAND TRUST328 S. Atherton St., State College, PA 16801Attn: E. Lynn Miller, PresidentPhone: (814)237-0400Service Area: Centre County

CLEARWATER CONSERVANCYPO Box 163, State College, PA 16804Attn: Kristen Saacke BlunkPhone: (814) 237-0400Service Area: Centre County

CONEMAUGH VALLEY CONSERVANCYPO Box 907, Johnstown, PA 15907Attn: Harold Jenkins, FacilitatorPhone: (814)536-6615Service Area: Conemaugh Valley

CONSERVANCY OF MONTGOMERY COUNTYPO Box 314, Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462 Attn: Mary Lou McFarland, PresidentPhone: (215) 283-0383.Service Area: Montgomery County

COUNTRYSIDE CONSERVANCYPO Box 301, Waverly, PA 18471-0301Attn: Rosamond Peck, PresidentPhone: (717)586-3524Service Area: northeastern Pennsylvania

LOCAL LAND TRUSTSIN PENNSYLVANIA

ALLEGHENY LAND TRUST445 Fort Pitt Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15219Attn: Andy Loza, Executive DirectorPhone: (412) 350-4666Service Area: southwestern Pennsylvania

ALLEGHENY VALLEY LAND TRUSTPO Box 777, 222 Market Street, Kittanning, PA16201-0777Attn: Robert Knepshiled, Executive Director Phone:(412) 543-4478.Service Area: Armstrong/Clarion counties

BACK MOUNTAIN REGIONAL LAND TRUSTPO Box B, Shavertown, PA 18798Attn: Linda Thomas, AdministratorPhone: (717)675-2274Service Area: Wilkes-Barre area

BERKS COUNTY CONSERVANCY960 Old Mill Road, Wyomissing, PA 19610, Attn:Phoebe Hopkins, Executive Director. Phone: (610)372-4992.Service Area: Berks County

BRANDYWINE CONSERVANCYPO Box 141, Chadds Ford, PA 19317,Attn: David Shields, Associate Director orH. William Seifers, Director, Env. Mgt. Ctr. Phone: (610) 388-2700Service Area: Brandywine valley

BUCK HILL FALLS CONSERVATIONFOUNDATIONPO Box 350, Buck Hill Falls, PA 18323Attn: John Dugan, Jr., President. Phone:Phone: (717) 595-2505.Service Area: Buck Hill Falls, Barrett Township,Monroe County

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DARBY CREEK VALLEY ASSOCIATIONPO Box 258, Lansdowne, PA 19050Attn: Clyde M. Hunt, PresidentPhone: (610) 975-4131.Service Area: Darby Creek watershed

DELAWARE HIGHLANDS CONSERVANCYHC 1, Box 1926, Milanville, PA 18443-9743Attn: Barbara Yeaman, PresidentPhone: (717)729-7053Service Area: Upper Delaware River

EDWARD L. ROSE CONSERVANCYPO Box 81, Brackney, PA 18812Attn: Heidy Randall, PresidentPhone: (717)663-2923Service Area: Susquehanna County

DELAWARE NATURE SOCIETYPO Box 700, Hockessin, DE 19707Attn: Lorraine Fleming, ManagerPhone: (302) 239-2334Service Area of Delaware and parts of New Jersey,Maryland and Pennsylvania.

EARL TOWNSHIP FARMLANDPRESERVATION TRUSTPO Box 191, New Holland, PA 17557Attn: Frank Ludwig, PresidentPhone: (717)354-9312Service Area: Earl Township, Lancaster County

EAST MARLBOROUGH LAND TRUST712 Haleane Drive, Kennett Square, PA 19348 Attn:Robert SieversPhone: (215) 257-6566Service Area: East Marlborough, Chester County ???

FARM AND NATURAL LANDS TRUSTOF YORK208 East Market Street, York, PA 17403Attn: Lorraine Hovis, Executive DirectorPhone: (717) 843-4411Service Area: York County and secondarily northernMaryland and Adams County, Pennsylvania.

FOX CHAPEL LAND CONSERVATION TRUST116 Hickory Hill Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15238 Attn:Jarvis Cecil, PresidentPhone: (412) 963-7088Service Area: northern Allegheny County

FRENCH AND PICKERING CREEKSCONSERVATION TRUST3340 Coventryville Road, PA 19465Attn: Eleanor Morris, PresidentPhone: (215) 469-0150Service Area: French and Pickering creeks in north-ern Chester County

FRIENDS OF RIVERFRONT1501 Reedsdale Street #4, Pittsburgh, PA 15233 Attn:John Stephen, Executive DirectorPhone: (412) 231-0754.Service Area: rivers and riverfronts of AlleghenyCounty

GREEN VALLEY ASSOCIATIONPO Box 113, Birchrunville, PA 19421Attn: Kathy Sloan, PresidentPhone: (610)827-7212Service Area: Chester County’s five Schuylkill Rivertributary watersheds

HERITAGE CONSERVANCY85 Old Dublin Place, Doylestown, PA 18901 Attn:Linda Mead,Director, Land PlanningPhone: (215)345-7020Service Area: Delaware River corridor from DelawareWater Gap to Philadelphia.

HOLLOW OAK LAND TRUSTPO Box 741, Moon Township, PA 15108-0741 Attn:Janet Thorne, Assist. to the BoardPhone: (412)264-5354Service Area: Western Allegheny County

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KENNET TOWNSHIP LAND TRUSTc/o Kennett Twp. Municipal OfficesKennet Square, PA 19348Attn: Dana Sargent, TreasurerService Area: Kennet Township, Chester County

LACKAWANNA VALLEY CONSERVANCYPO Box 368, Scranton, PA 18501Attn: Bernard McGurl, SecretaryPhone: (717)347-6311Service Area: Lackawanna River Valley

LANCASTER COUNTY CONSERVANCY128 E. Merion St., Lancaster, PA 17608-0716Attn: John Symonds, Executive Director Phone: (717) 392- 7891.Service Area: Lancaster County

LANCASTER FARMLAND TRUST128 East Marion Street, PO Box 1562, Lancaster, PA17608Attn: Alan Musselman, Executive Director Phone:(717) 293-0707.Service Area: Lancaster County

LAND TRUST OF ADAMS COUNTY1008 Hilltown Road, Biglerville, PA 17317Attn: Gary Sterner, VP Board of DirectorsPhone: (717)334-2067Service Area: Adams County

LOWER MERION PRESERVATION TRUST9 S. Bryn Mawr Avenue, Bryn Mawr, PA 19010Attn: Michael Weilbacher, Executive Director Phone:(610) 520-9895Service Area: Lower Merion and MontgomeryTownships, Montgomery County

LOYALHANNA WATERSHED ASSOCIATIONPO Box 561, Ligonier, PA 15658Attn: Lysie Sherwin, Executive DirectorPhone: (412) 238-7560Service Area: Loyalhanna Creek Watershed,Westmoreland County

MANADA CONSERVANCY1430 Sand Beach Road, Hummelstown, PA 17036Attn: John ConnorPhone: (717)592-6812Service Area: Manada Creek watershed, DauphinCounty

MERRILL W. LINN LAND AND WATERWAYSPO Box 501, Lewisburg, PA 17837Attn: Geoff Goodenow, PresidentPhone: (717) 524-8666Service Area: Union County

MIDDLETOWN TOWNSHIP LANDCONSERVANCY338 Mt. Alverno Road, Media, PA 19063Attn: Frederick LeStourgeon, PresidentPhone: (610) 565-2065Service Area: Middletown Township, DelawareCounty

MILLPORT CONSERVANCY29 Warwick Road, Lititz, PA 17543Attn: Robert Wohlsen, Sr., PresidentPhone: (717)626-0414Service Area: Lancaster County

MONTGOMERY COUNTY LANDS TRUSTPO Box 300, Lederach, PA 19450Attn: Dulcie Flaharty, Executive DirectorPhone: (215)513-0100Service Area: Montgomery County

MOUNT NITTANY CONSERVANCYPO Box 296, State College, PA 16804Attn: William Jaffe, President.Service Area of Operation: Nittany Mountain area,Centre County

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NATURAL LANDS TRUST1031 Palmers Mill Road, Media, PA 19063Attn: D. Andrew Pitz, Director, PlanningPhone: (610) 353-5587Service Area: Pennsylvania

NORTH FORK CONSERVANCYWaterplant Road, Brookville, PA 15825Attn: Wayne Kocher, PresidentPhone: (814) 842-5260Service Area: Jefferson County

NORTHCENTRAL PENNSYLVANIACONSERVANCY320 E. Third Street, Second Floor, Williamsport, PA1770Attn: Jamie Daniels, Executive DirectorPhone: (717)323-6222Service Area: northcentral Pennsylvania

NORTHEASTERN PENNSYLVANIACONSERVANCY1151 Oak Street, Pittston, PA 18640Attn: Howard Grossman, PresidentPhone: (717)655-5581Service Area: northeastern Pennsylvania

NORTHERN ALLEGHENY CONSERVANCYPO Box 661, Warren, PA 16365Attn: Sharon Meyers, PresidentPhone: (717)723-6061Service Area: Warren County

OPEN LAND CONSERVANCY OFCHESTER COUNTYPO Box 1031, Paoli, PA 19301Attn: Marian Toland, PresidentPhone: (215)647-5380Service Area of Operation: eastern Chester County

PENNSBURY LAND TRUST702 Baltimore Pike, Chadds Ford, PA 19317Attn: Alma Forsyth, PresidentPhone: (610)388-7323Service Area:

PENNYPACK ECOLOGICALRESTORATION TRUST2955 Edge Hill Road, Huntingdon Valley, PA 19006Attn: David Robertson, Executive Director Phone:(215) 657-0830.Service Area of Operation: southeast Pennsylvania,Philadelphia suburbs

PINE CREEK LAND CONSERVATION TRUSTPO Box 259, Ingomar, PA 15127Attn: John Davis, SecretaryPhone: (412)367-1292Service Area: Pine Creek watershed area, AlleghenyCounty

POCONO HERITAGE LAND TRUSTPO Box 292, Bartonsville, PA 18321Attn: Robert Baxter, Board MemberPhone: (717) 629-3060Service Area: Monroe County

SCHUYLKILL RIVER GREENWAYASSOCIATION960 Old Mill Road, Wyomissing, PA 19610 Attn:Victor YarnellPhone: (215) 372-3916Service Area: Schuylkill River

SCOTT CONSERVANCY1386 Blue Jay Drive, Pittsburgh, PA 15243Attn: Tom CumminsPhone: (412) 276-0433Service Area: Pittsburgh

SENECA HIGHLANDS CONSERVANCY800 Minard Run Road, Bradford, PA 16701 Attn:John Young, PresidentService Area: northern Pennsylvania, westernNew York

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SOMERSET COUNTY CONSERVANCY165 East Union Street, Somerset, PA 15501Attn: Brad Zearfoss, PresidentPhone: (814)443-1431Service Area: Somerset County

SOUTHERN ALLEGHENIES CONSERVANCYFairlawn Court, Suite 4, 702 West Pitt Street, Bedford,PA 15522Attn: Stan Caldwell, Executive DirectorPhone: (814) 623-7900Service Area: Bedford County

SPRINGTON LAKE/CRUM CREEKCONSERVANCY3714 Gradyville Rd, Newtown Square, PA 19073Attn: Jack Eliason, TreasurerPhone: (610)356-4107Service Area: See name.

THE NATURE CONSERVANCY (PA)Lee Park Suite 470, Conshohocken, PA 19428Attn: Susan Cary NicholasPhone: (717)643-7922Service Area: Pennsylvania/ national

TINICUM CONSERVANCY15 Tankhannen Rd., Ottsville, PA 18942Attn: Neal Kyde Phone: (215) 766-7443.Service Area: Tinicum Township, Bucks County

WESTERN PENNSYLVANIA CONSERVANCY209 Fourth Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222Attn: Thomas Schmidt, Vice PresidentPhone: (412) 288-2766.Service Area: Pennsylvania west of the SusquehannaRiver.

WESTMORELAND CONSERVANCY3603 North Hills Road, Murrysville, PA 15668Attn: James Dunbar, Board MemberPhone: (412)327-3237Service Area: Westmoreland County

WHITE CLAY CREEK CONSERVANCY760 Chambers Rock Road, Landenberg, PA 19350Attn: John Murray, PresidentPhone: (610) 255-4314.Service Area: southern Chester County, Pennsylvaniaand northern New Castle County, Delaware

WILDLANDS CONSERVANCY3701 Orchid Place, Emmaus, PA 18049Attn: Thomas Kerr, Executive DirectorPhone: (610) 965- 7223research.Service Area: eastern Pennsylvania

WISSAHICKON VALLEYWATERSHED ASSOCIATION12 Morris Road, Ambler, PA 19002Attn: David Froelich, Executive DirectorPhone: (215) 646- 8866Service Area: Philadelphia and Montgomery coun-ties

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Financial Assistance

COST-SHARING PROGRAMSFOR SPRING SEEDLINGSGlatfelter Pulp Wood Company andWestvaco

Purpose of Program:The Glatfelter Pulp Wood Company and Westvacoparticipate in cost sharing programs with the Bureauof Forestry, Department of Conservation and NaturalResources, to promote reforestation.

Glatfelter Pulp Wood Company ProgramEligible applicants:Sixteen counties in southern and central Pennsylva-nia are eligible in 1997.Funding Structure:For designated tree species, Glatfelter will pay $40per thousand. Maximum cost share is toward 5000seedlings. Seedling orders will be accepted on a firstcome basis by the Bureau of Forestry until the totaldollar limit has been reached.

Westvaco ProgramEligible Applicants:Ten counties in southern and southwestern Pennsyl-vania are eligible in 1997. You must be a member ofthe American Tree Farm System or a member ofWestvaco's Cooperative Forest Management Pro-gram. Schools, 4-H, FFA and other youth groups canapply for tree planting project assistance.Funding Structure:For designated tree species, Westvaco will pay $50per thousand, one-half of the delivery charges andthe Pennsylvania state sales tax on these amounts.For schools, 4-H, Vo-Ag, and FFA, Westvaco will paythe total cost of 10,000 or less "regular" evergreenseedlings (including delivery charges and sales tax)for tree planting projects. If "improved" evergreenstock is desired, Westvaco will pay $100 per thou-sand plus delivery charges and state sales tax.If you wish to plant more than 5,000 seedlings,contact the District Forester, who will clear the orderwith Westvaco.

Agency Contact:Bureau of Forestry, Department of Conservation andNatural Resources, PO Box 8552, Harrisburg, PA17105-8552.

OPERATION GREEN STRIPEMonsanto Company and Future Farmersof America

Purpose of Program:To involve FFA students in qualifying chapters inenrolling farmers in a program to plant vegetativebuffers along streams.Eligible Projects:Farmers who enroll in Operation Green Stripe willagree to establish a streamside buffer stripe andmaintain it as such for at least three years. The greenstripe must be at least 16 1/2 feet wide and must beplanted on soil formerly used for crops. The length ofthe green stripe must have a stream border of at least150 yards.Eligible Applicants:Farmers where the local FFA chapter is participatingin this program.Funding Structure:Monsanto Company contributes $100 for each farmera FFA Chapter recruits, up to five farmers. The moneyis dedicated for chapter activities. PennsylvaniaPower and Light Company now matches Monsanto’scontribution of $100 per stripe. Other sponsorsinclude Ducks Unlimited, Pheasants Forever, andQuail Forever. Cooperating ag retailers agree todonate at least one acre of free grass seed for eachfarmer enrolled.Contact:Angela Rushing, Operation Green Stripe, 2660 EgretLane, Tallahassee, FL 32312; (904)385-3447.

PRIVATE

INDUSTRIAL

PROGRAMS

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Appendix 1: Success Stories

Randy Irwin had a small corner of his farm that proved to be a trouble spot. It became more and more difficult toplant and harvest crops in the soggy soil that was once kept dry by an old drainage ditch. Surrounding this smallparcel of land were highly erodible hillsides that only added to the soggy conditions with every rainstorm.

When Irwin heard about the Fish and Wildlife Service's Partners for Wildlife Program, which restores wetlands onfarmland at little to no cost to the landowner, he knew it was what his farm needed. He now enjoys a 1 1/2 acrewetland that attracts ducks, geese, and shorebirds instead of getting his tractor stuck in an old soggy spot.Irwin's farm is one of 250 projects completed under Partners for Wildlife since 1989, restoring nearly 2,500 acres ofwetlands, 2,500 acres of native grasslands, and 25 miles of streambank. Currently, over 400 people are awaitingprojects on their property.

The Pike Run Watershed Project is a voluntary habitat restoration undertaking being conducted on private lands.The overall goal of this project is to significantly reduce agricultural nonpoint source pollution within the Pike Runwatershed in Washington County by restoring wetlands and protecting riparian resources. It is a cooperative effortwith the Fish and Wildlife Service, Pennsylvania Game Commission, California University of Pennsylvania andPheasants Forever.

The reduction of nonpoint source pollution is being conducted through proven restoration techniques for streambank fencing, wetland hydrology restoration and riparian plantings. The project demonstrates the willingness oflandowners to cooperate with agencies and conservation groups in restoration efforts.

Achievements thus far include: 48,500 feet of stream bank fencing on nine separate properties; 22 stone ramps forcattle crossings; 8 watering structures; 40 restored wetland acres; 1050 acres of native warm season grass plantingsfor ground cover habitat on 53 sites; and 8,500 trees and shrubs planted in riparian and wetland areas.

The results have been positive for the watershed. Both numbers and diversity of wildlife species have increased, aswell as visible improvements in water clarity and in-stream aquatic habitat.

The Donegal Creek is located in the northwest corner of Lancaster County. Its 17.2 square miles of watershedincludes some of the county’s most productive and intensively used farmland. Unfortunately, the Donegal Creekhas been severely degraded by that same agricultural land use.

But help arrived in March of 1996. The Lancaster County Conservation District and the Donegal Fish and Conser-vation Association partnered together with the intent of restoring 6.67 miles of the Donegal corridor. The partner-ship has made steady progress and believes the Donegal has a bright future. Other organizations, such as TroutUnlimited, Federation of Fly Fishers, and Pennsylvania Trout have also joined the restoration effort.

Denying free cattle access to the stream is priority number one. To date, the partnership has installed stream sidefencing in 10 different pastures. One pasture remains to be fenced and three pastures have been fenced by thelandowners themselves. A total of 17 stone ford cattle crossings and 7 stone watering facilities have been installed.A great variety of fish enhancement structures, such as deflectors, mud sills, boulder placement and half-loghouses, have been installed. Trees and shrubs have also been planted within the fenced corridors; a long term goalis to re-establish a forest buffer within all fenced corridors. All improvements have been paid for 100 percent bythe partnership. There is no cost to the landowners and the partnership maintains everything (fences, tree protec-tors, weed mowing, etc.). A grant from EPA’s Section 319 program and numerous private grants have covered allexpenses thus far. Contact: Lancaster County Conservation District (717) 299-5361.

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Appendix 2: General Landowner Options

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Appendix 3: Selected References

REFERENCE CENTERS

CENTER FOR WATERSHED PROTECTION8737 Colesville Road, Suite 300Silver Spring, MD 20910Phone: (301) 589-1890Fax: (301)589-8745-- Publishes the journal Watershed Protection Tech-niques that contains summaries on the latest researchand experience with urban best management prac-tices, stream restoration, environmental planning,wetland/restoration, and watershed research.-- Publications List available by calling number listedabove.

STROUD WATER RESEARCH CENTERAcademy of Natural Sciences, PhiladelphiaRD 1, Box 512Avondale, PA 19311Phone: (215) 268-2153-- The Center is dedicated to the study of stream andriver ecosystems. Areas of research emphasis include:interactions of streams with their watersheds, naturalhistory of stream organisms, nutrient cycling andenergy flow, environmental chemistry, influence ofwetlands on streams, and responses of streams toenvironmental impacts. Through workshops andpublic lectures, the Center shares new informationabout aquatic resources and global environmentalissues.

CHESAPEAKE REGIONAL INFORMATIONSERVICE (CRIS)Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay1-800- 662-CRIS-- Provides resource information on a variety oftopics, including wetlands and riparian bufferstewardship.

REFERENCE PUBLICATIONS

A STREAMBANK STABILIZATION ANDMANAGEMENT GUIDE FORPENNSYLVANIA LANDOWNERS1986; 79 pp; Pennsylvania Department of Conserva-tion and Natural Resources, PO Box 8475, Harris-burg, PA 17105-8475-- Explains stream behavior and provides a summaryof the advantages, disadvantages, and applicabilityof various streambank restoration techniques.Phone: (717) 787-7672

CHESAPEAKE BAY RIPARIANHANDBOOK: A GUIDE FOR ESTABLISH-ING AND MAINTAININGRIPARIAN FOREST BUFFERS1997; USDA Forest Service, Northeastern Area - Stateand Private Forestry-- Provides professional land managers and plannerswith the latest information on the functions, design,establishment and maintenance of riparian forestbuffers.Phone: 1-800-YOUR-BAY or the USDA Forest Serviceat (304)285-1592.

ESTABLISHING VEGETATIVE BUFFERSTRIPS ALONG STREAMS TO IMPROVEWATER QUALITY1996; 56 pp. Penn State University, PublicationsDistribution Center, 112 Agricultural AdministrationBuilding, University Park, PA 16802-- Assists owners of riparian zones with the develop-ment of vegetative buffer strips and serves as a guidefor technical staff working with landowners.Phone: (814)865-6713

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Reference Publications Continued

WHITE PAPER: RIPARIAN FORESTBUFFERS16 pp; Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay, ForestService, and Agricultural Research Service-- Describes the current state of scientific knowledgeregarding the functions of riparian forest buffers inthe Chesapeake Bay watershed.Phone: 1-800-662-CRIS or 1-800-YOUR-BAY

CORRIDOR MANAGEMENT FORPASTURELAND STREAMS1994; 12 pp.; PA Fish and Boat Commission,PO Box 67000, Harrisburg, PA 17106-7000-- Focuses on the relationship between pasturelandsand stream quality and the means to keep both ashealthy as possible.

WATERSHED OWNER'S STREAMWALKGUIDETexas Natural Resource Conservation CommissionNonpoint Source Program Team-- Helps those interested in water quality learn moreabout their local streams and how human use of thewater and surrounding land affects quality; aninteresting accompaniment for hands-on watershedtours.Phone: (512) 239-0028; single copies are free.

LANDOWNER'S GUIDE TO MANAGINGSTREAMS IN THE EASTERN UNITEDSTATES1985; 32 pp.; Virginia Cooperative Extension Service,Publication 420-141; Virginia Polytechnic Instituteand State University, Blacksburg, Virginia 24061-- Explains stream improvement methods, in-streamhabitat characteristics, stream killers, and a streamwatcher's guide.

PROTECTING WETLANDS: TOOLS FORLOCAL GOVERNMENTS IN THECHESAPEAKE BAY REGION1997; 110 pp.-- Assists local government officials, landowners,community activists, and others with identifying andusing wetland protection tools. Tools are described,reference materials are identified and case studyexamples are provided.Contact Amy Zimmerling, CBPO/EPA, 410 SevernAve., Suite 109, Annapolis, MD 21403.

STREAMSIDE FORESTS: THE VITAL,BENEFICIAL RESOURCE1988; 16 pp; US Fish and Wildlife Service and Univer-sity of Maryland Cooperative Extension Service-- Provides an overview of the many benefits pro-vided by streamside forests, historic loss of theresource, and what can be done to restore it.Phone: (410)573-4500

RIPARIAN FOREST BUFFERSFunction and Design for Protection and En-hancement of Water Resources1991; 20 pp; David Welsch, USDA Forest Service-- Provides a comprehensive description of thefunctions of riparian forest buffers and guidelines fortheir establishment.Phone: (202)512-1800; $2.00; stock number 001-001-00657-2.

MID-ATLANTIC WETLANDS: ADISAPPEARING TREASURE1987; 28 pp; US Fish and Wildlife Service and EPA-- Provides an overview of wetland types and values,current status and recent trends in wetlands in theMid-Atlantic states, and options for wetland conser-vation.EPA Region III, Office of Public Affairs, 841 ChestnutBuilding, Philadelphia, PA 19107.

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RESPONSE SHEET

In order to track the utility of this guide, agency personnel usingthis guide are requested to submit copies of this response sheet.

Name of Agency Representative:Agency Name:Agency Address/ Telephone:

Landowner contacted:Location of landowner:Date contact made:

Briefly describe how this guide was used and actions taken by thelandowner as a result of your contact and assistance:

Photocopy this form before use.

Please tear off form and return to the Bureau of WatershedConservation, PO Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8555.

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34

RESPONSE SHEET

In order to track the utility of this guide, agency personnel usingthis guide are requested to submit copies of this response sheet.

Name of Agency Representative:Agency Name:Agency Address/ Telephone:

Landowner contacted:Location of landowner:Date contact made:

Briefly describe how this guide was used and actions taken by thelandowner as a result of your contact and assistance:

Photocopy this form before use.

Please tear off form and return to the Bureau of WatershedConservation, PO Box 8555, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8555.

ALLIANCE FOR THE CHESAPEAKE BAY225 Pine StreetHarrisburg, PA 17101