Rep. Molinaro introduces bill aimed at dairy producers

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Rep. Marc Molinaro (R-NY-19) has introduced the Dairy Farm Resiliency Act to strengthen the safety net for dairy farmers in upstate New York by improving the Dairy Margin Coverage (DMC) program.

Since its creation in the 2018 Farm Bill, DMC has been received positively, but is in need of updates that would help it work better for the small- and medium-sized dairy farms that make up New York’s 19th Congressional District, according to Molinaro’s office. The Dairy Farm Resiliency Act requires the production level covered by the program to be updated every five years to ensure dairy farmers are adequately insured for their milk production. The bill also allows medium-sized dairy producers to insure more of their milk.

DEP declares statewide drought watch

HARRISBURG, PA — Following a meeting of the Commonwealth Drought Task Force, the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has declared a statewide drought watch, as announced on June 15. While not required, residents and businesses are encouraged to voluntarily conserve water by reducing their nonessential water use.

UDC Technical Assistance Grants open

NARROWSBURG, NY — The Upper Delaware Council (UDC) announces the opening of its Fiscal Year 2024 Technical Assistance Grants (TAG) program. Applications from the UDC’s member municipalities will be accepted until 4:30 p.m. on Friday, August 18. Priority will be given to applications that involve the preparation or revision of relevant laws, plans, and ordinances to substantially conform with the Upper Delaware enabling legislation, the RMP, and the Land and Water Use Guidelines. Projects that support land use planning, Geographic Information Systems (GIS) planning, zoning ordinances and revisions, codification of local laws, and updates of comprehensive and master plans are emphasized for solicitation. Please call UDC Resources and Land Use Specialist Kerry Engelhardt at 845/252-3022 or email applications@upperdelawarecouncil.org to consult with project concepts in advance of submission or to request more information.