Environmental Advocacy Group Proposed; Meeting Monday

A blueprint for an environmental advocacy group in Potter County will be discussed during the next meeting of the “Water Dogs.” A corps of citizens initially pulled together as volunteer stream and river watchers will be asked if they’re interested in forming a “God’s Country Environmental Coalition.” Discussion of the plan is scheduled for 6 pm on Monday, June 4, at the Gunzburger Building auditorium in Coudersport.

Four committees are proposed to deal with water testing, air quality monitoring, locating/remediating abandoned gas wells, and public education. Loren Fitzgerald, who has been active in the Water Dogs organization, hatched the idea for a more broadly based organization after meeting with a representative from PennEnvironment, a statewide environmental advocacy organization. He emphasized that the plan to expand the local group’s mission will hinge on the potental to establish clear, tangible goals. The meeting is open to the public.