11:30 am – 12:30 pm
F. Choose Native: A Statewide Look at Landscaping and Water Gardening with Native Species
Presenter:
Zach Nemec, Coastal Outreach Specialist, Pennsylvania Sea Grant
Abstract: The Choose Native project is a collaboration between the Great Lakes Commission (GLC), Pennsylvania Sea Grant, and Penn State Extension. Pennsylvania Sea Grant worked with the Great Lakes Commission to apply for funding through the Richard King Mellon Foundation which was awarded in January 2023. The primary focus of the project is preventing invasive species introductions through the organisms in trade (OIT) pathway, mainly targeting the landscaping and water gardening industry. The presentation will include an introduction to native species replacements in landscaping and water gardening, the development of the Choose Native guide including the results from statewide industry surveys, and workshop learning outcomes. Challenges of the project and transferability to local context and similar topics will also be discussed.
G. Read(y)ing for 100: energy transition & climate action planning in Reading
Presenters:
Bethany Ayers-Fisher, Sustainability Manager, City of Reading Public Works
Christopher Nafe, Energy Program Specialist, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection
Abstract: The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania produces a Climate Action Plan update every three years, and since 2019, has been supporting Pennsylvania municipalities in developing their Climate Action Plans through the Local Climate Action Plan (LCAP) program. This free-to-municipalities cohort matches resources from the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Penn State, and others to support municipalities in their greenhouse gas emission inventories, pollution reduction plans, and energy transition goals. DEP program leader Christopher Nafe will introduce the program and how to have your municipality participate. City of Reading Sustainability Manager, Bethany Ayers Fisher, will discuss the benefits of participating, the strategies the City of Reading is implementing to meet its goal of 100% renewable energy by 2050, Zero landfilled waste by 2050, and increasing prosperity for residents, and the opportunities for additional technical assistance Reading is receiving because of participation in the LCAP cohort, Sustainable PA, and Pennsylvania Municipal League.
H. Converting a Pond into a Wetland Mosaic within a Public Park
Presenter:
Emily Bjorhus, Senior Project Manager and Environmental Scientist, Princeton Hydro
Abstract: This presentation explores the design and construction of the Lion’s Pride Park Ecological Restoration Project in Warrington, PA. The project converts a stagnant pond overrun with invasive species and water quality concerns into a diverse wetland complex that provides native wildlife habitat and reduces nonpoint source pollutants discharged to downstream waters. Additionally, the project incorporates ADA-compliant walking paths, boardwalks, and observation platforms so all community members may enjoy and learn from this restored aquatic setting.
I. Salamanders of the Delaware River Watershed: Bioindicators of Ecosystem Health
Presenter:
Matthew McCann, Science and Policy Analyst, Delaware Riverkeeper Network
Abstract: This presentation will outline the importance of salamanders to stream and wetland ecosystems and the threats that these animals face. Attendees will learn about each species of salamander found in the Delaware River Watershed, including identifying characteristics, life history, and habitat preferences. They will also learn about the Delaware Riverkeeper Network’s on-the-ground conservation efforts and the innovative techniques implemented to save salamander populations.
J. The Schuylkill River Sojourn – 25 Years of Paddling and Progress
Presenters: Tim Fenchel, Deputy Director, Schuylkill River Greenways National Heritage Area, and Brian Swisher, Owner, The Swisher Studio
Abstract: For the past 25 years, the Schuylkill River Greenways National Heritage Area along with dozens of partners up and down the river, have been hosting the annual Schuylkill River Sojourn, a 112-mile guided kayak/canoe trip. Each year the Sojourn begins in Schuylkill Haven, PA and ends seven days later at the iconic Boathouse Row in Philadelphia. The event is designed to celebrate and promote the Schuylkill River as one of Pennsylvania’s most remarkable natural, historic, and recreational resources. The Sojourn includes educational programming, delicious food, camping, gear storage, shuttles, and much more. In 2018 the Schuylkill River Sojourn won a national award for best Public Outreach Program from the American Society for Environmental History. This session will explore the history of the sojourn, how it has changed over the years, its impact the event has had on the river and the communities it touches, as well as what it is like to be a Sojourner spending a day on the river.