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.

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.

• American Forests
• Bat Conservation International
• Ducks Unlimited
• Izaak Walton League of America
• National Audubon Society
• National Geographic Society
• National Wildlife Federation
• The Nature Conservancy
• North American Association for Environmental Education
• Water Environment Federation
• World Wildlife Fund

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.