HARMON CREEK DAMS RECEIVE STATE FUNDS FOR UPGRADES

HARRISBURG, Sept. 1, 2006 - State Sen. J. Barry Stout announced today that Washington County will be receiving $16,250 in state funds to refurbish two dams on Harmon Creek.

"The people of southwestern Pennsylvania know well the destructive power of water," said Stout (D-Allegheny/Beaver/Greene/Washington/Westmoreland). "We understand that our dams must be continuously upgraded and maintained. With this state grant, we will be able to improve our flood protection system and prevent any future loss of life or property damage."

The state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) provides grants to local governments that sponsor flood protection projects across the state. A sponsor may receive a grant if their flood protection project is operated and maintained in acceptable condition, and in a state of readiness, to function as designed during a high water event.

The grant will reimburse a sponsor up to 65 percent of its costs for project improvements and non-routine maintenance and up to 50 percent of the costs to purchase specialized equipment used in the monitoring, operation, and maintenance of their project.

Washington County will use the grant announced today to replace or repair sluice gate valve stems and replace stem guides for two dams in Hanover and Jefferson Townships.

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