The Centre County Conservation District administers the Erosion and Sediment Pollution Control Program on behalf of the PA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). Any project that disturbs the natural cover of the soil is regulated by this program, including clearing, grading, road building, etc. Accelerated soil erosion occurs when the natural soil cover is removed and the bare soil is exposed to rain and water flow. The regulations require that anyone engaged in an earthmoving activity implement erosion control measures (also known as "Best Management Practices"-or- BMPs) to prevent or minimize accelerated soil erosion and the resulting sediment pollution. Sediment pollution in Centre County streams harms fish and other aquatic life, damages water supplies, exacerbates flooding, and may cause property damage.
The Conservation District is involved in reviewing and acknowledging National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits for construction activities. We also review and acknowledge Chapter 105 General Permits for minor projects in and near streams.