SOMERSET – The Joe Walker Manure Storage in the Somerset County Conservation District has been awarded a $682,638 grant to address manure and stormwater runoff issues, Sen. Pat Stefano (R-32) and Rep. Matt Dowling (R-51) announced today.
A new circular manure storage structure will be constructed to hold manure, washwater and bedding from the herd for up to six months, eliminating the impacts of overflow and runoff from land application. Best management practices will be applied and will contribute to the elimination of sedimentation and nutrient runoff with the addition of a roofed, heavy-use and manure stacking area to be used during winter months, in addition to the stabilization and resurfacing of silage pads and field lanes.
“This grant money will do a wonderful job balancing the area’s agricultural priorities with the need to preserve our waterways. That’s especially important because Blue Lick Creek flows into Casselman River and then eventually the Ohio River,” Stefano said. “Pollutants in our shared waterways affect everyone, so I am pleased that the funding will address the issue.”
Annually, the project will eliminate approximately 6,267 pounds of sediment, 5,794 pounds of nitrogen and 2,511 pounds of phosphorus.
“The Somerset County Conservation District has done so much to ensure clean water for our region while partnering with area farmers and others to help them employ best management practices to protect that water supply,” Dowling said. “This is an important investment in our community.”
The money was awarded by the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST), whose mission includes funding sewer, storm water and drinking water projects throughout the Commonwealth that contribute to improving the environment and public health, as well as provide opportunities for economic growth and jobs.
CONTACT: Mark Fetzko, mfetzko@pasen.gov