Representative Everett to Host Public Meeting on Proposed PGE Project in Loyalsock Creek Valley

Rep. Garth Everett (R-Lycoming/Union) will host an informational public meeting featuring Pennsylvania General Energy (PGE) and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR) on Wednesday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m. at the Plunketts Creek Fire Hall. The Fire Hall is located at 327 Dunwoody Rd, Williamsport, PA 17701. The purpose of the meeting is to provide the public information on PGE’s proposed water withdrawal and pipeline project in the Loyalsock Creek Valley just below what was Best Beach. “After a briefing state Senator Gene Yaw and I received from PGE and staff from DCNR on the initial proposal earlier this year, I suggested that we get all the parties involved together for a public meeting,” Everett said. “I think it is important that any project which impacts an area like the Loyalsock Creek be open and transparent to the public. My experience is that once the public hears what is really being proposed rather than just rumors, and understands all the safeguards and regulatory requirements involved, that people will feel much better about the project.” Everett will moderate the meeting which will feature presentations by PGE on the proposed project and DCNR on how it approves and manages this type project on state forest land. In addition, the Susquehanna River Basin Commission (SRBC) will provide information on what its role will be in the project and how it regulates water withdrawals. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) will explain the permitting and regulatory process PGE will be required to comply with and the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission (PFBC) will explain its involvement in the process. A question-and-answer session will be conducted following the presentations. “When I first heard that PGE was proposing a withdrawal site and possible water and gas pipelines in the Loyalsock Creek Valley, I knew there would be a lot of interest and concern from the public,” said Everett. “My family and I have been on the Creek since 1930 and I am a member of both the Loyalsock Creek Watershed Association and Men’s Club, so I certainly share those concerns.” “I have seen PGE’s work under the oversight and direction of DCNR and the other regulatory agencies in the Pine Creek Valley and am impressed with how it turned out. I am confident based on that experience that the plan PGE is proposing in the Loyalsock Valley will exceed those results.” To find out more about the public meeting, please call Everett’s district office at (570) 546-2084.