HARRISBURG – State Sen. Judy Ward (R-30) and Rep. Kerry Benninghoff (R-171) today announced a more than $1.3 million state loan has been approved to help pay for a manure management project in Oliver Township, Mifflin County.
“Farms need efficient and effective waste management to be successful,” Ward said. “These state dollars will enhance the quality of life for local residents by improving local agricultural waste management and reducing runoff into the nearby waterway. The money will help this farm operate in a way that is more environmentally friendly for the surrounding community.”
“This project is an example of the many benefits which are available to communities statewide through the Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority (PENNVEST),” added Benninghoff. “It demonstrates how government can work responsibly to improve our overall quality of life in the Commonwealth, and in this case, address an environmental concern.”
The project will take place at a small dairy farm owned by Leon Groff located at 6790 Ferguson Valley Road, McVeytown. The farm contains approximately 250 dairy Holstein milk cows and 150 heifers. Stormwater and manure from the farm flow into Spring Run.
The loan will be used to decommission an earthen manure pit and construct a liquid manure storage facility under the barn and a dry waste storage facility. Barnyard curbing and fencing also will be installed.
The completed project will provide six months of manure storage and improve stormwater runoff management. It is estimated to reduce annual runoff into the stream by eliminating approximately 4,000 pounds of nitrogen, 57 pounds of phosphorus and nearly 300 pounds of sediment.
The funding was approved by PENNVEST. PENNVEST is an independent agency of the Commonwealth providing financial assistance to fund construction of drinking water, sewer and stormwater projects in communities throughout Pennsylvania.
Residents can follow Ward on Facebook at Facebook.com/SenJudyWard and Twitter @SenatorJWard for news about legislation and the 30th Senate District. Contact information for her district offices and other information can be found on her website at SenatorJudyWard.com, and constituents also can sign up for her e-newsletter at SenatorJudyWard.com/enewsletters.
Contact: Nathan Akers
717-787-2421