AGP Executive Report

ICE Detention Plan Reversed: Gov. Josh Shapiro says DHS has formally withdrawn plans to build two large ICE detention centers in Berks and Schuylkill counties, ending warehouse conversion efforts that drew local opposition. Wildlife & Public Lands: A bald eagle rehabilitated for five months after wounds and lead toxicity was released at Erie Bluffs State Park, with Tamarack Wildlife Center and the Pennsylvania Game Commission. Severe Weather Impacts: The NWS confirmed three EF-0 tornadoes in western Pennsylvania from Tuesday’s storms, with limited damage reported in Butler and Lawrence counties. Data Centers & Local Power Costs: Pennsylvania lawmakers didn’t end data-center tax breaks this session, but Shapiro says new environmental and transparency guardrails may come via executive action. Health Watch: Measles cases are rising nationally, and Pennsylvania health officials are tracking the outbreak via a new portal; meanwhile, St. Mary’s County, Md. reported possible exposure sites. Food Security: Central Pennsylvania Food Bank and Feeding Pennsylvania launched an “urgent” fundraiser after a spring freeze and federal funding cuts reduced fresh produce purchasing by about $170,000 per month.

Air Quality & Wildfire Smoke: Western Pennsylvania residents are again dealing with unhealthy smoke impacts, with DEP warning that a temperature inversion can trap PM2.5 near the ground and keep Code Orange conditions in parts of the region. Severe Weather Preparedness: Forecasters are watching another active stretch, including a Flood Watch for southeast Pennsylvania and nearby areas as heavy downpours raise flash-flood risk, plus tornado and damaging-wind threats tied to storms. PFAS Research: New Great Lakes-focused findings track how “forever chemicals” move through the food web and into people, adding to the growing case for stronger pollution controls. Soot Standards: A federal court ordered EPA to implement the strengthened 2024 soot (PM2.5) air standard on schedule, pushing communities toward cleaner-air designations. Water & Local Projects: In North Union Township, KH Springs’ proposed water extraction plan is still under scrutiny after SRBC approval, while Mercer County moved ahead with bids for an aquaponics learning center. Health & Ticks: Lyme disease cases are rising again in western Pennsylvania, with climate-driven tick season changes cited.

Severe Weather: A tornado watch covers parts of Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia region through Tuesday night as storms bring damaging winds up to 70 mph, hail, and flash-flood risk along the I-95 corridor; multiple tornado warnings hit New Jersey, with reports of tornadoes and widespread power outages. Local Flood Response: St. Marys officials praised first responders after the July 6 flood, noting intense rainfall and why the city didn’t meet state emergency-declaration thresholds. Data Centers & Policy: Pennsylvania’s budget passed only one data-center rule: facilities using over 10 MW must disclose energy and water use; lawmakers left a major sales-tax exemption in place while broader moratorium and local pause proposals stalled. Energy for Schools: The Shapiro administration approved $1.6M for solar panels at five Pennsylvania schools, aiming to cut electricity costs and reduce carbon pollution. Air & Public Health: West Nile Virus was detected in Pittsburgh-area mosquito samples, prompting targeted spraying in several Allegheny County neighborhoods. Water Infrastructure: A $2M state grant supports stream restoration work via the Cobbs Creek Foundation. Wildlife/Access: The Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruled the Game Commission needs a warrant based on probable cause before entering private property. Invasive Species: Spotted lanternfly continues spreading, with reports reaching West Virginia.

Severe Weather Watch: The National Weather Service warns Tuesday could bring significant storms to the Pittsburgh area, with hail, damaging winds and tornado threats (plus a Flood Watch for parts of western Pennsylvania) as rainfall rates may reach 3–5 inches per hour. Air Quality Update: After days of wildfire smoke, air conditions in western PA improved into the new week, with Butler County moving from Code Purple/Orange back toward “moderate” levels. Wildlife & Local Rules: Erie residents can’t keep protected wildlife or certain “wild” animals under the city’s farm-and-wildlife code—an issue that’s resurfaced after questions about keeping animals like gators. PFAS Research: New work on “forever chemicals” traces how PFAS move through the Great Lakes food web and into people. Water & Land Use: A Zion Grove community weighs a proposed water extraction plant after SRBC approval, while Mercer County commissioners advanced an aquaponics learning center with nearly $1.6M in construction bids. Public Health & Outdoors: Lyme disease cases rose again across western Pennsylvania, and officials continue urging caution during smoke and storm alerts. Community Spaces: Spotlight PA reports many Pennsylvania libraries are expanding into community hubs, but funding stays flat.

Severe Weather Watch: The National Weather Service is confirming tornadoes in western Pennsylvania and warning of another high-impact storm day Tuesday, with damaging winds, flash flooding risk, and a lower but real tornado chance. Public Health: Lyme disease cases are rising for a second straight year in western PA, with Allegheny and Westmoreland leading counts as warmer winters and outdoor tick exposure drive more activity. Water & Habitat: Allegheny College’s Watershed Conservation Research Center is starting stream restoration on two tributaries in the French Creek and Oil Creek watersheds using a DEP Growing Greener grant, aiming to reconnect floodplains and improve habitat. Data Centers & Local Policy: East Cocalico Township is moving a draft data-center ordinance toward review, while nationwide protests against AI data center expansion continue to spread over water, transparency, and community oversight concerns. State Government Spending: Two state lawmakers are pushing the UNITE Act to cut redundant Pennsylvania General Assembly IT spending by requiring shared providers across caucuses. Wildlife Disease Monitoring: Pennsylvania is piloting a mail-in system for Chronic Wasting Disease deer testing, letting hunters submit lymph nodes and jaw tissue for faster lab processing. Consumer Protection Fight: Philadelphia is pressing a consumer-protection case against DraftKings, arguing its local enforcement authority can’t be blocked.

Air Quality: DEP issued a Code Orange air alert for Monday across much of western Pennsylvania, citing a temperature inversion that will trap lingering Canadian wildfire smoke near the surface and push particle levels into unhealthy ranges for sensitive groups. Wildfire Smoke Politics: President Trump again demanded Canada “pay” for the smoke, threatening tariffs or damages while Canadian leaders pointed to shared responsibility and disaster cooperation. Data Centers & Power: Pennsylvania lawmakers passed only one data-center measure in the 2026-27 budget—requiring large operators to disclose energy and water use—while leaving a major tax exemption in place, as communities keep pushing back. Local Wildlife Management: Abington Township agreed to a USDA contract to harass Canada geese at Alverthorpe Park using lasers, boats, and pyrotechnics, with concerns about droppings, safety, and possible water impacts. Public Health History: A look back at Legionnaires’ disease traces the 1976 outbreak in Philadelphia to contaminated water systems and why it still kills people today. Rural Health Funding: Questions remain about whether Rural Health Transformation Program dollars will actually help keep rural hospitals open.

Air Quality Alerts: DEP issued a Code Orange Air Quality Alert for Lawrence County Monday, with the same smoke-driven warning expanding across western Pa. counties including Mercer, Crawford, Butler, Armstrong, Indiana, Cambria, Beaver, Allegheny, Westmoreland, Washington, Greene, Fayette and Somerset; sensitive groups are urged to limit outdoor activity and residents should check AirNow and avoid gas-powered lawn equipment and open burning. Wildfire Smoke Outlook: Western Pennsylvania is seeing a smoky haze return as Canadian wildfire smoke persists, with forecasts pointing to continued haze and only partial relief as conditions shift. Severe Weather Watch: Forecasters say strong storms could return Tuesday, with damaging winds, heavy rain and lightning possible, while tornado confirmations from Saturday include Westmoreland and Jefferson counties. Local Impacts: Storm cleanup and disruptions continued, including road closures tied to flooding and a serious crash affecting traffic along Clairton Boulevard. Data Center Backlash: A coordinated national protest push against AI data center expansion drew 142 rallies across 42 states, underscoring growing community resistance to new power and land demands.

Wildfire Smoke & Air Quality: Canadian and Minnesota wildfire smoke pushed “very unhealthy” air across parts of Pennsylvania and the broader Northeast, triggering Code Purple/Code Red alerts, event cancellations, and public guidance to limit exposure. Severe Weather After Smoke: As smoke thinned, western and central PA braced for strong-to-severe thunderstorms, tornado risk, and flash flooding—Saturday brought power outages and flooded areas, with more storm chances into Sunday and another potentially severe round Tuesday. Data Centers vs. Communities: Anti–data center activists staged a national day of protests (142 actions in 42 states), including a Wilkes-Barre rally, citing higher bills, pollution, water use, and land fights; the backlash is also tied to eminent domain concerns. Local Land Use & Cleanup: In Nanticoke, a proposed warehouse on coal mine-scarred land is seeking a LERTA tax break after prior environmental restoration work, spotlighting how redevelopment incentives intersect with environmental legacies. Community Outdoors: Honesdale began work on the 12th Street Promenade park along the Lackawaxen River, aiming for spring 2027 completion. Ag & Gardening: Penn State Extension Master Gardeners will staff an “Ask a Master Gardener” area at Ag Progress Days, with soil health, pests, pruning, and pollinator-friendly planting tips.

Severe Storms in Western & Central PA: The National Weather Service kept a Severe Thunderstorm Watch in place across Western Pennsylvania until 9 p.m., with a Flood Watch through midnight and flash-flood warnings for parts of the region, including Allegheny and Westmoreland counties; officials warned drivers to turn around on flooded roads as storms could bring damaging winds, heavy rain, and isolated tornado risk. Tornado Risk Spreads Across the Region: A tornado watch was also issued for parts of Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania, after an “enhanced” tornado risk advisory for New Jersey—raising concern for stronger tornadoes, hail, and flash flooding. Wildfire Smoke Still Chokes the Air: Canadian wildfire smoke continued to drive unhealthy air across Pennsylvania and the broader Northeast/Mid-Atlantic, with some improvement expected as rain and changing winds move through. Data Center Backlash Hits Pennsylvania: Protest momentum against AI data center expansion grew nationwide, including a Wilkes-Barre demonstration, while in Bucks County residents challenged Amazon’s plan to add hundreds of backup generators amid concerns about pollution, power demand, and water use. Food Safety Recall: Taylor Farms released a full recall list for iceberg lettuce tied to a cyclospora outbreak affecting 27 states, including Pennsylvania. Regenerative Farming Milestone: Rodale Institute broke ground on transforming its 1819 Siegfried Barn into a Center for Regenerative Organic Innovation, aimed at farmer education and research.

Wildfire Smoke Health Crisis: Pennsylvania is under a rare statewide Code Purple air quality alert as Canadian wildfire smoke keeps air “very unhealthy,” driving event cancellations and warnings to limit outdoor activity. Severe Weather Watch: Forecasters say strong to severe storms could hit western and south-central PA Saturday, with damaging winds and flash-flood risk as smoke may temporarily thin. Data Center Backlash: Opponents of rapid data center buildout are organizing protests Saturday in at least 125 locations nationwide, targeting higher power bills, water use, and pollution concerns. Local Wastewater & Biosolids: Clearfield Municipal Authority discussed biosolids disposal at its sewage treatment plant, highlighting capacity and treatment steps. Home Repair Funding: Altoona’s Safe Steps Home Improvement Program launches July 20, offering eligible homeowners up to $12,000 for safety and energy-related repairs. Plastic Policy Push: A borough single-use plastic rule is set to take effect July 23, requiring customers to request certain items. Agritech Legacy: Mary-Dell Chilton, who led creation of the first genetically modified plant, died at 87.

Wildfire Smoke Emergency: Pennsylvania is under a statewide Code Purple air quality alert as Canadian and Minnesota wildfire smoke pushes very unhealthy PM2.5 into the air. Harrisburg canceled Friday events and moved “Outdoors for All Day” to Aug. 8; Erie hit Code Maroon (hazardous) and closed Waldameer & Water World and the Erie Zoo; Lancaster County shut down Dutch Wonderland and altered pool hours as officials urged residents to stay indoors and avoid strenuous activity. Health Guidance: Doctors and DEP officials warned people with asthma, heart or lung disease, children, and older adults to avoid all outdoor activity; experts also say properly fitted N95/KN95 masks and indoor HEPA filtration can help. Regional Impacts: The smoke disrupted sports, including a postponed Pirates game in Cleveland, and forced other closures and cancellations across the state. Weather Outlook: Forecasts point to storms and rain over the weekend that may start clearing smoke by Sunday, though hazardous conditions could linger into Saturday. Water & Infrastructure: The PUC approved a Pennsylvania American Water rate increase tied to major water and wastewater upgrades, including work aimed at addressing contaminants like PFAS.

Air Quality Emergency: The PA Department of Environmental Protection issued a statewide Code Purple air quality alert for Friday, July 17, warning wildfire smoke from Canada and Minnesota will push PM2.5 into “very unhealthy” levels (AQI 201–300). Officials urged residents to stay indoors, skip long or intense outdoor activity, and keep windows closed; sensitive groups (kids, seniors, and people with respiratory or heart conditions) should avoid being outside. DEP also advised residents to cut down on gas-powered lawn equipment and burning leaves/trash. Local Impacts: In the Pittsburgh area, multiple outdoor programs were canceled or closed, including pools and parks activities, as haze reduced visibility. Public Guidance: Health officials and local fire departments emphasized limiting exertion, using indoor air recirculation with HVAC, and checking AirNow for real-time updates. Infrastructure & Environment: In Clearfield County, Clearfield Municipal Authority discussed a proposed 20-year agreement with the Woodland Bigler Area Authority to connect sewer systems and replace aging treatment capacity via a roughly three-mile line. Tech & Defense: ZeroEyes announced a $10 million AI R&D investment and plans to hire 100 veterans in southeastern Pennsylvania, tied to threat detection and intelligence work.

Wildfire Smoke Health Emergency: Pennsylvania DEP issued statewide Code Red Thursday as Canadian wildfire smoke pushed PM2.5 into the air, with parts of northwest PA upgraded to Code Purple for Friday—residents were told to limit time outside, skip strenuous activity, and avoid gas-powered equipment and open burning. Air-Quality Guidance: Multiple reports pointed people to AirNow.gov and stressed that Friday’s air is expected to stay “very unhealthy,” with possible improvement only after weekend rain. Local Impacts: Several outdoor events were adjusted or canceled, including the Horse Trading Days parade in Zelienople and Tussey Mountain WingFest postponed due to unhealthy air. Planning & Permits: A DEP hearing is set for Aug. 20 on a proposed Nesquehoning data center permit package, including stormwater and wetlands-related approvals. Community & Environment: Reworld and Goodwill expanded free e-waste recycling drop-offs across 11 Pennsylvania counties, aiming to keep electronics out of landfills. Climate Science: A new National Academy report says attribution work is shifting toward how overlapping extremes compound impacts.

Air Quality Crisis: Pennsylvania DEP issued a statewide Code Red for Thursday, July 16 as wildfire smoke from Canada and Minnesota pushes into the state, with the worst conditions expected overnight into Friday; DEP urges everyone to limit outdoor time and asks sensitive groups to stay indoors, plus residents to cut pollution from gas lawn equipment, fireplaces/wood stoves, and open burning. Local Water Upgrades: Foxburg is moving ahead with a PENNVEST-backed drinking water rehab via a new sinking fund, while Franconia Township is set to receive nearly $2.5 million for wastewater improvements aimed at reducing nutrient loading to Indian Creek. Green Infrastructure: York City’s Codorus Creek greenway project is on track for construction in 2027 after a $40.5 million first phase. Wildlife & Outdoors: The PA Board of Game Commissioners advanced elk hunt zone updates and approved several land acquisitions to expand habitat access. Food Safety: Chester County restaurant inspections flagged issues including improper food storage temperatures and expired ready-to-eat items. Community & Planning: A Foxburg council vote clears the way for PENNVEST financing, and Exeter’s Dryden Road is set to reopen to cars with a 20 mph limit after years of debate.

Wildfire Smoke Health Alerts: Pennsylvania is under statewide Code Red air quality alerts Thursday and Friday as smoke from Canadian and Minnesota wildfires pushes in, with DEP urging everyone to limit outdoor time and sensitive groups to avoid strenuous activity. Local Air Risk: In Allegheny County, the implosion of the Commercial Street Bridge is prompting short-lived, localized dust concerns near the Parkway East tunnel area, with residents advised to stay indoors and protect lungs. Heat + Air Combo: Western PA is also facing heat advisories with highs in the 90s and heat index near 100, raising the stakes for people with respiratory or heart conditions. Water Conservation: Pennsylvania American Water is asking customers in drought-warning counties (including Berks and Lancaster) to cut nonessential use by 10–15% as supplies remain adequate but conditions could worsen. School Recess Rule: A new Pennsylvania budget provision requires elementary schools to provide 30 minutes of daily recess, with the policy noting it should be device-free when possible. Data Center Debate: Nationally, New York’s data center moratorium is fueling broader fights over power and water demands—an issue Pennsylvania policymakers are watching closely.

Wildfire Smoke & Heat: Canadian and Minnesota wildfires are pushing hazardous smoke into the Midwest and Northeast, with Pennsylvania expected to see haze and degraded air quality later this week as a heat dome keeps temperatures near or above 100°F in parts of the region. Local Air-Quality Worries: In Falls Township, residents packed a meeting to question Amazon’s under-construction data center at the former U.S. Steel site, raising concerns about air and water impacts alongside energy use. Data Center Pushback in PA: Lancaster City Council approved an amendment to regulate data centers, allowing two already-approved projects to continue while adding limits for future proposals after residents warned about noise, water pollution, and grid strain. Chesapeake Bay Governance: Virginia tribes say they’re cautiously optimistic about joining the Chesapeake Bay agreement, but a July 1 roadmap deadline was missed and the decision was pushed to December. Forever Chemicals Focus: A Pennsylvania GOP congressman won major environmental group endorsements tied to preventing PFAS (“forever chemicals”) from contaminating drinking water. Public Health Alerts: Pennsylvania is among states tracking cyclosporiasis, with local cases reported in the Pittsburgh area, while West Nile virus season is described as unusually severe early this year. Wildlife & Conservation Tech: A University of Kentucky and University of Pittsburgh effort aims to use AI to identify which individual cerulean warbler is singing, supporting conservation research for a declining songbird. Community Support: Mercer County seniors can apply for $25 Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers to boost access to locally grown produce.