LAND WORK: Jody Groshek of the McKean County Conservation District shared some advice for people doing work on their land before the snow flies.
Jody writes:
Fall is a popular time to clean up areas on your property. The McKean County Conservation District reminds landowners and contractors that certain activities may require permits or erosion and sedimentation plans. When planning any work near a stream or waterway it is critical to acquire necessary permits and check regulations. A stream in Pennsylvania is a waterway with defined bed and banks, even if water does not flow year round.
Before beginning your project, check with your municipality and county planning office regarding their requirements and building permit information. Also check with the District about requirements for erosion and sedimentation and work near waterways. Here are a few guidelines when planning your project.
If your project:
• Will have less than 5,000 square feet of earth disturbance, it is not necessary to have a written plan on site but erosion and sediment control best management practices (BMPs) are still required to minimize the potential for accelerated erosion and sedimentation.
• Will have more than 5,000 square feet of earth disturbance, a written E&S plan is required to be on site and implemented.
• Will have more than 1 acre of earth disturbance and is not in a special protection (Exceptional Value, High Quality) watershed, a General NPDES Permit is required to be submitted for approval to the District. Before any earth disturbance activity can occur the plan must be approved. A copy of the approved stamped, signed, and dated plan must be kept on site.
• Will have more than 1 acre of earth disturbance and is in a special protection watershed, an Individual NPDES Permit is required to be submitted for approval to the District. Before any earth disturbance activity can occur the plan must be approved. A copy of the approved stamped, signed, and dated plan must be kept on site.
• Is timber harvesting or road maintenance activity involving 25 acres (10 hectares) or more of earth disturbance, an E&S Permit is required to be submitted for approval to the District. Before any earth disturbance activity can occur the plan must be approved. A copy of the approved stamped, signed, and dated plan must be kept on site.
It is especially important in the fall to seed and mulch any bare earth from recent disturbance to prevent erosion. Never place fill or refuse (leaves, branches, or yard waste) in or near a stream.
Anyone with questions can also reach the conservation district at 814-887-4001 or conservation@mckeancountypa.org, or visit www.mckeanconservation.com for more permitting information.
