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CCWA views trout in classroom project
Saturday, March 06, 2010
PATTON - Clearfield Creek Watershed Association President Earl Smithmyer opened the February meeting with the pledge to the flag. There were 16 members present.
The treasurer's report was given by Dane Kalwanaski, CCWA treasurer.
Secretary Jerry McMullen reported on a visit to the classroom of Ben Watt at Penn Cambria Middle School where he said he was very impressed with the tank, fish and wall chart listing the items the students must check on. He encouraged other CCWA members to visit the classroom and see first-hand the positive experience this is for students.
Watt presented a slide show to the members on the Trout in the Classroom project at the school. He had pictures of setting up the tank, sorting the egg sacks, students working to care for the fish, checking the pH and water temperature and the wall chart. He said the students are excited to look after the fish and watch their growth.
After discussion of an event for the students, CCWA members said they will provide a lunch and would like to take them to a site so they can see firsthand what the group is working on. Plans will be finalized at the March meeting.
The 2010 Dominion Grant has been submitted. It includes a request for a flow meter with an estimated cost of $2,000-2,500. An application for another grant for lumber for weirs, wood for tree stakes and tools for tree planting is being considered.
Art Rose, Technical Committee Chairman, gave reports on various projects including that of the Swartz Mine. Alder Run Engineering evaluated the specifications and cost of adding limestone to the channel at this site. The Pennsylvania Game Commission indicated they can construct a road usable by tri-axles to the upper end of the channel. A letter of inquiry requesting $20,000 has been sent to the Foundation for Pennsylvania Watersheds. Assuming they approve the letter, a proposal will be submitted for the March 23 due date. The funds from success of this proposal would be adequate for significant treatment, but more limestone will be needed for complete treatment. Other sources of funding are being sought.
The secretary said he contacted Barry Zaffuto with the Pennsylvania Game Commission, to see when the trees would be available for planting. They are to be available in late March or early April. CCWA is to receive the trees that are being purchased from the Cambria County Conservation District on April 9 and hope to plant on April 10. Volunteers will be needed for tree plantings.
It was suggested at the meeting that CCWA should consider having student memberships for ages 15 and under. The fee would be $1. Smithmyer stated, "This is not about the money but a great opportunity to get young kids involved and see what we are about." The secretary will contact Damin Printing concerning getting the cards.
The next meeting is March 16 at 6:30 p.m. in the Prince Gallitzin Office Conference Room.
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