Landowner urges Game Commission to address severe erosion from Game Lands 108
April 12, 2025 | Game Commission, TOURISM & RECREATION, Executive Departments, Organizations, Executive, Pennsylvania
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During the recent Board of Game Commissioners meeting held on April 12, 2025, a significant concern was raised regarding stormwater management on Game Lands 108 in Pennsylvania. A local resident presented a detailed account of ongoing soil erosion issues affecting his property, which he attributes to inadequate stormwater control measures implemented by the Pennsylvania Game Commission.
The resident highlighted that heavy rainfall has led to substantial erosion, causing damage to his property and blocking drainage systems. He expressed frustration over the Game Commission's lack of action, despite multiple communications with officials, including Austin Kiefer. The resident noted that while he received initial encouragement regarding potential solutions, ultimately, no remedial work was undertaken. He criticized the Commission for what he perceived as a dismissive attitude towards the erosion problem, suggesting that management has minimized the situation.
The resident emphasized the environmental implications of the erosion, stating that sediment from his property flows into Powell Run, which eventually leads to the Chesapeake Bay. He argued that the Game Commission, which manages the land for wildlife, has a responsibility to address the erosion issue, especially given its substantial financial resources, reportedly over $500 million in royalties. He urged the Commission to prioritize the use of these funds to prevent further sediment pollution in local waterways.
In his appeal, the resident called for the Game Commission to take accountability for the erosion and to implement effective stormwater management strategies. He expressed a desire for the Commission to engage more directly with affected residents rather than relying solely on management's assessments. The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between land management practices and environmental stewardship, raising questions about the Commission's commitment to addressing community concerns and protecting local ecosystems.
As discussions continue, the resident's plea highlights the need for a more proactive approach to environmental management by the Game Commission, particularly in light of its financial capabilities and the pressing nature of the erosion issue. The outcome of this situation remains to be seen, as the resident indicated he may pursue further action if the Commission does not address his concerns.
The resident highlighted that heavy rainfall has led to substantial erosion, causing damage to his property and blocking drainage systems. He expressed frustration over the Game Commission's lack of action, despite multiple communications with officials, including Austin Kiefer. The resident noted that while he received initial encouragement regarding potential solutions, ultimately, no remedial work was undertaken. He criticized the Commission for what he perceived as a dismissive attitude towards the erosion problem, suggesting that management has minimized the situation.
The resident emphasized the environmental implications of the erosion, stating that sediment from his property flows into Powell Run, which eventually leads to the Chesapeake Bay. He argued that the Game Commission, which manages the land for wildlife, has a responsibility to address the erosion issue, especially given its substantial financial resources, reportedly over $500 million in royalties. He urged the Commission to prioritize the use of these funds to prevent further sediment pollution in local waterways.
In his appeal, the resident called for the Game Commission to take accountability for the erosion and to implement effective stormwater management strategies. He expressed a desire for the Commission to engage more directly with affected residents rather than relying solely on management's assessments. The meeting underscored the ongoing tension between land management practices and environmental stewardship, raising questions about the Commission's commitment to addressing community concerns and protecting local ecosystems.
As discussions continue, the resident's plea highlights the need for a more proactive approach to environmental management by the Game Commission, particularly in light of its financial capabilities and the pressing nature of the erosion issue. The outcome of this situation remains to be seen, as the resident indicated he may pursue further action if the Commission does not address his concerns.
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