HARRISBURG – State officials today announced an $821,212 low-interest loan through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure and Investment Authority (PENNVEST) that will assist a Union County dairy operation with pollution and sediment reduction efforts.
As part of the current round of PENNVEST loan and grant initiatives, Harmony Springs Farm, located in Limestone Township, has been approved for a low-interest loan for costs associated with decommissioning an existing manure storage tank, construction of two new manure storage tanks, 1,152 square feet of barnyard cover, 1,344 square feet of sediment traps, and 110 linear feet of stormwater piping. The project also includes 2,880 square feet of animal trails and walkways, six acres of critical area planting and stabilization and one stream crossing.
“Working hand-in-hand with our agriculture community and county conservation districts, we are putting state resources to work for our communities,” Senator Gene Yaw said. “This PENNVEST investment will help to eliminate health hazards associated with manure and composting runoff into Penns Creek and make needed improvements to meet our local water quality challenges.”
“I am pleased that PENNVEST is supporting this investment, which helps our agricultural community meet the demands of implementing best management practices for manure management and illustrates how government can work with the local conservation district and private individuals to improve our Commonwealth,” said Representative Fred Keller.
The project has received the endorsement of the Union County Conservation District.
Six construction jobs are expected to be created as a result of the loan disbursement, with an anticipated completion date of May 1, 2015.
PENNVEST provides financial assistance to communities throughout Pennsylvania seeking to improve environmental conditions and safeguard the health of residents.
CONTACT:
Rita Zielonis (Sen. Yaw) 717-787-3280
Benjamin Ranck (Rep. Keller) 570-966-0052