Contractors workshop scheduled before spring thaw work begins

DINGMANS FERRY - The Pike County Conservation District and the Pike County Builders Association are sponsoring a workshop for builders, earthmoving contractors, landscapers and others who conduct earthmoving activities within the Pike County region. The Wednesday, March 7, program will be held at the Delaware Township Municipal Building in Dingmans Ferry starting at 8 a.m. This full-day workshop will focus on the impacts of sediment pollution, proper best management practices and installation, working in and around waterways, permitting requirements related to earth moving and “building green.” This workshop is being offered before the spring thaw arrives when contractors and landowners alike will be stepping up various earthmoving activities, from the building of single-family homes to development of commercial sites. Add to that the snowmelt, rainfall, soggy soils and sparse vegetation cover associated with early spring and conditions are right for accelerated erosion resulting in sediment pollution to Pike County waterways. By volume, sediment is the greatest source of pollution to waters of the Commonwealth. Sedimentation is caused by the movement of soil particles from unstabilized, exposed earth - whether from construction, logging activities, plowing and tilling, etc. - into waterways, usually in conjunction with storm events. One heavy rainfall on even a relatively small disturbed area can cause serious pollution, harming fish and other aquatic life, affecting water quality and contributing to flooding. Simple measures taken to stabilize exposed surfaces and prevent potential pollution can go a long way to protect Pike County’s unique and important streams and other water resources. This workshop will review some of these simple measures. Local businesses and the Pike County Builders Association will provide door prizes. There is a registration fee of $20 that includes a hot buffet lunch and all handout materials. To register for this workshop and/or for directions, contact the Pike County Conservation District at 570-226-8220 or visit www.pikeconservation.org.