Pa. Conservation Corps May Fall Victim To State Budget Ax

The Pennsylvania Conservation Corps, a program that has been especially active in Potter County for many years, is slated for elimination in Governor Tom Corbett’s proposed 2011-12 state budget. Local advocates say elimination of the PCC would have a disproportionately adverse impact on rural areas. The Potter County Commissioners this week appealed to the governor and dozens of key legislators in Harrisburg to preserve the program. Their letter stressed the Corps’ value in Potter County, as demonstrated at the Potter County Fairgrounds, Susquehannock State Forest, Pennsylvania Lumber Museum, Austin Dam, Memorial Park, state parks, and townships/boroughs.

PCC members receive temporary employment, as well as job training and other guidance, while performing important public service work, the commissioners pointed out. Elimination of the program would result in additional burdens placed on local governments and state facilities that provide a benefit to the local economy and way of life.