Education
Representatives from the Conservation District are available to make presentations
to local organizations and school districts in Susquehanna County including
classroom and outdoor presentations such as aquatic ecology, soil studies,
wildlife biology, Envirothon preparation, and many other environmental education
lessons.

The District also offers educational workshops throughout the year.
The Conservation District’s Contractor's Workshop,
held annually in the Spring, presents information about the regulatory
aspects of the District's Erosion and Sediment Program.

Contractors, township officials, DEP staff, USDA-NRCS staff and Conservation
District staff enjoyed breakfast before an informative workshop at
Dryer Hall, Montrose Bible Conference |
The Conservation District held a community workshop, Rain barrels:
Storm water Management for the Homeowner to
help educate the community on tips they can use in their own backyards
to take charge of storm water and non point source pollution issues. The
workshop featured speakers from the Conservation District, Penn State
Extension’s Master Gardeners, and a resident from Wyoming County
who has implemented these principles in her own backyard. Through
a grant sponsored through the Pennsylvania Association of Conservation
Districts, Inc. and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection’s
Chesapeake Bay Program, each participant was able to go home with a free
rain barrel.
The following organizations can provide information and resources regarding wildlife
and wildlife habitat. Explore these links to learn more about
what you can do to become a good steward of our natural resources. Other
links are available from our list of Partners.
Natural Symbols of Pennsylvania
Tree: Eastern Hemlock (Tsuga canadensis)
Fish: Brook Trout (Salvelinus fontinalis)
Mammal: White Tailed Deer (Odocileus virginianus)
Flower: Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia)
Insect: Firefly (Lampyridae)
Bird: Ruffed Grouse) (Bonasa umbellus)
Pollution Solutions
Non-point Source Pollution is water pollution that comes from sources which
cannot be easily pinpointed. Some sources are: air pollution,
agricultural operations, construction, waste disposal and resource extraction. Individuals
can make a difference. Even if you don't live next to a stream your
actions can help prevent water pollution. Start by practicing these
water quality tips:
- Use Water Wisely: Use dishwashers
and washing machines only when they are fully loaded.
- Use Household Products Properly: Many
products around the home can create water pollution if they are not used
carefully and disposed of properly. Use the least toxic product possible. Never
pour paints or solvents down the drain.
- Care for Your Lawn: Landscaping
with grasses, trees, and shrubs helps prevent water pollution. Plants
control soil erosion and use nutrients that could otherwise enter streams.
Follow directions when using fertilizers -- more is not always better.
- Practice Sensible Pest Management: Not
all bugs are bad. Some insects help eliminate unwanted pests. Many
insects are beneficial pollinators. Always follow directions when
using pesticides and be especially careful near water and animals. In
order to help protect beneficial insects, reduce or eliminate the use of
insecticides and never apply when flowers are blooming. Many
herbicides also kill aquatic species when runoff reaches streams or bodies
of water. Fungicides kill not only parasitic fungal species
but also beneficial fungi in the soil that plants depend upon. Never
apply pesticides without first knowing your target pest species and considering
potential unintended exposure.
- Control Runoff and Soil Erosion: Concrete
sidewalks, streets, and driveways are unable to absorb rainfall. Runoff
carries motor oil, fertilizers, and soil into storm drains and creeks. Reduce
runoff by diverting downspouts onto grassed areas and using materials such
as wood, bricks, or interlocking stones for patios and walkways. Control
soil erosion by reseeding and mulching bare spots.
- Use Car Products Wisely: Motor
oil, antifreeze and battery acid can create water pollution. Whenever
possible recycle car products. Wash your car on the grass so water
and detergents are absorbed.
- Reduce Emissions and Save Energy: Nitrogen
oxides are emitted by burning fossil fuels. Car pool, and consolidate
several small errands into one large trip. Turn off lights and
lower the thermostat. Properly insulate your home and its heading
and hot water pipes.