Connoquenessing Creek Watershed Conservation Plan - Western ...

Connoquenessing Creek Watershed Conservation PlanChapter 6. Issues and ConcernsWetlands, which provide critical habitat for wildlife, also control erosion, sedimentation, andpollutants from entering area streams. Wetlands also play an integral part in flood protection, groundwaterrecharge, and climate regulation. Vernal pools, one type of wetland, provide breeding habitats for somespecies of salamanders and frogs. Agriculture, industrial, commercial, and residential development, andother human activities have had significant detrimental effects on wetlands. It is estimated that over halfof the nation’s original wetlands have now been destroyed. As the understanding of the importance ofwetlands increases, so does the interest in preserving them. It is important to understand how the loss ofwetlands affects fish, wildlife, humans, and the environment. The preservation of wetlands was identifiedas an important issue during public meetings and surveys.Riparian zones are important corridors for wildlife. They can enhance recreational activities,improve water quality, and provide habitat for aquatic species. These vegetated areas along streams,rivers, and lakes filter runoff and provide a transitional zone between land and water. By retaining waterin the vegetation, riparian corridors can reduce flooding and erosion as well. Continued efforts to protectriparian corridors are needed.Illegal dumpingIn addition to being unsightly, illegal (or unauthorized) dumps pose direct health threats and have ahigh potential to contaminate waterways. Waste containing hazardous materials soaked by rainfall maycause contaminants to leach through the soil or run off the land surface, contaminating ground or surfacewater. Trash and debris can directly enter the stream during heavy rainstorms, affecting water quality,safety of humans and wildlife, and stream aesthetics. Debris can collect in the stream, clogging it, whichraises water levels and causes flooding.A combination of insufficient waste disposalopportunities, general disrespect for natural areas, andincreased water runoff were listed as contributing factors.Route 19 was mentioned as a common litter corridor. Onerespondent noted that municipalities’ well-intentionedrequirement of using specific trash providers may encouragedumping, as residents lack the resources to use these outletsas intended.Locating and cleaning up illegal dumpsites was animportant issue for community residents. Reducing thenumber of illegal dumpsites can be accomplished throughcleanups, education, and alternate disposal methods. Cleanupdays along roadways or waterways were stronglyRemote areas are prime locations forillegal dumpsitessupported, as was the development of a plan to help those who want to clean up, do so without spendingexorbitant time and/or financial resources. Active participation by residents and local governmentofficials is needed to address illegal dumping issues. In addition, educating the public about the threats ofillegal dumping is an important step in battling the epidemic. PA CleanWays chapters and volunteerswork to clean up illegal dumps across the state by adopting roadways and trails where dumping occurs.For more information about illegal dumping and what you can do to help, contact Butler/Lawrencecounties chapter of PA CleanWays.Increased recycling programs that are convenient for area residents could alleviate some of theillegal dumping activities. Curbside programs or community drop-off locations provide residents withalternative methods of disposing items. Hosting drop-off days for items that are costly and difficult todispose of, such as tires, refrigerators, and computers, would provide area residents with an alternative toillegal dumping.6-8