AGP Executive Report

Severe Weather Watch: The National Weather Service confirmed tornadoes across the region, including an EF-1 in the Dover, Delaware area and an EF-0 near Downingtown, Pennsylvania, as storms churned through the Northeast with flooding risk. Local Governance & Environment: Upper Merion Township rejected a proposal for five large data centers near King of Prussia after residents raised concerns about health, daily life, and property impacts, with officials citing missing traffic, emergency, sewer, and landscaping details. Pollution & Wildlife: Stroud Water Research Center reported microplastics in insects from the Schuylkill River watershed, adding another sign of plastic contamination moving through local ecosystems. Public Health & Work Zones: PennDOT and Pennsylvania State Police launched “Operation Yellow Jacket” to crack down on speeding, tailgating, and distracted driving in highway work zones to reduce work-zone fatalities. Community Resilience: Lancaster County commissioners issued a disaster declaration after a storm tore through Columbia, clearing the way for state and federal relief and recovery planning.

Data Center Backlash in Focus: Gov. Josh Shapiro launched a new website for Pennsylvanians to report concerns about AI data center projects, as the state tightens rules and residents push back over impacts on communities and resources. Local Regulation Push: Norristown council adopted a data center ordinance with strict criteria in its heavy industrial district, reflecting growing environmental and nuisance worries. Project Gold Water and Density Changes: In North Pocono, developers scaled back Project Gold’s earlier plans after community concerns, including cutting water impacts and reducing the number of data centers. Severe Weather and Flood Recovery: Lancaster County issued a disaster declaration after a destructive storm, while Somerset County flood survivors pressed state officials for more relief after assistance was denied. Public Health: CDC and FDA linked a multistate E. coli and salmonella outbreak to alfalfa sprouts, with cases reported across 15 states including Pennsylvania. Wildlife Watch: Allegheny County health officials reported a surge in bat calls as summer activity increases, urging safe handling and expert removal.

Data Center Fight: Gov. Josh Shapiro signed new executive-order “guardrails” for Pennsylvania data centers, requiring developers to follow binding energy, environment, and transparency standards and to get local approval before DEP can review permits—prompting both cheers and backlash from communities and industry. Severe Weather & Tornado Response: Columbia Borough declared a state of emergency after a storm that may have included a tornado tore through the area, damaging buildings and knocking out power; officials set curfews and opened a Red Cross shelter. Weekend Rain Threat: The National Weather Service warned that more rounds of drenching rain and thunderstorms could bring localized flash flooding across parts of eastern Pennsylvania and the I-95 corridor. West Nile Virus Watch: Centre County reported West Nile Virus in a mosquito sample, urging residents to eliminate standing water and take quick yard cleanups. Wildlife Conservation Input: Pennsylvania’s Game Commission and Fish and Boat Commission are seeking public comments on the draft 2025–35 Wildlife Action Plan through Sept. 19. Forest Protection Rollback: Environmental advocates criticized a proposed federal rollback of the Roadless Rule, arguing it would weaken protections for roadless areas in the Allegheny National Forest. Aviation Safety: Investigators continued probing a deadly midair crash at Carlisle Airport involving a small plane and a Pennsylvania State Police helicopter, with new details on communications and flight actions. Agriculture Innovation Grants: The state announced new Ag Innovation Grant awards, including funding for woody biomass-to-fuel conversion and automated lumber handling.

Data Center Guardrails: Gov. Josh Shapiro signed an Aug. 18 executive order tightening Pennsylvania’s rules for large data centers, making GRID requirements mandatory and requiring developers to bring their own power, get local approvals before DEP review, and build community outreach plans. Local Impact: The order also removes data centers from Pennsylvania’s PA Permit Fast Track and raises questions about how it affects Amazon’s proposed backup natural gas generators in Falls Township, where DEP is still reviewing permits. Severe Weather: Tornado and flash-flood threats kept the Philly region and much of eastern PA on alert, with warnings tied to damaging winds and heavy rain. Storm Aftermath: Lancaster Area Sewer Authority issued a water conservation notice for seven municipalities after a storm knocked out power at its treatment plant. Agriculture Funding: Pennsylvania opened applications Aug. 24 for a $10 million freeze disaster grant program for fruit growers hit by early freezes. Wildlife Rescue: A Pocono center rescued five ring-necked snakes stuck to adhesive tape on a cardboard box and is nursing them back for release. Wildlife Policy: The Pennsylvania Game Commission ended its Deputy Game Warden program effective Sept. 1 after a Supreme Court ruling limited warrantless searches. Science & Health: Monell Chemical Senses Center researchers used machine learning to better map complex scents, aiming to “digitize” odors.

Data Center Rules in the Spotlight: Gov. Josh Shapiro signed Executive Order 2026-05, directing DEP to review new data center permits only after developers sign GRID-based consent terms and secure local approval—while removing projects from fast-track permitting and tightening state tax exemption conditions. Local Pushback, Real-World Impacts: Venango County planners discussed adding data center language to SALDO after hearing about the new state order, reflecting how communities are trying to manage noise, water use, and land impacts. Coal Mine Expansion Under Review: DEP will study whether LCT Energy’s Rustic Ridge II coal mine should expand into an 11,000-acre area at the headwaters of two streams, after an Environmental Hearing Board ordered a fuller look. Wildlife Planning Input Open: The Game Commission and Fish and Boat Commission are taking public comments on a draft 2025-2035 Pennsylvania Wildlife Action Plan through Sept. 19. Weather & Flood Risk: A flood watch remains in effect for parts of southeast Pennsylvania and nearby areas, with heavy downpours possible.

Data Center Guardrails: Gov. Josh Shapiro signed executive order GRID standards that slow or block new Pennsylvania data centers without early local approval, full electricity-cost coverage, water-use commitments, and transparency—also removing AI projects from fast-track permitting and limiting nondisclosure deals. Local Backlash, Real Politics: Supporters and opponents in Pennsylvania and beyond are weighing in as the data-center fight becomes a “sleeper issue” in elections, with national polling showing many Americans oppose AI data centers more than nuclear plants. Regional Ripple Effects: Lackawanna County leaders say the local fight must continue and are pushing for a cumulative health-and-air-quality study tied to proposed data centers and power plants. Wildlife & Waterways Enforcement Cuts: Pennsylvania confirmed it’s ending the Deputy Game Warden program and the Fish and Boat Commission’s Deputy Waterways Conservation Program, affecting dozens of volunteer deputy officers. Severe Weather: NWS Pittsburgh confirmed a record year for tornadoes, including an EF-0 in Armstrong County, as officials cite warmer, more humid conditions and better detection. Public Health at the Shore: New Jersey issued swimming advisories at multiple Atlantic City beaches after fecal bacteria levels spiked.

Data Center Guardrails: Gov. Josh Shapiro signed an executive order tightening Pennsylvania’s rules for AI data centers, requiring developers to pay the full cost of new electricity and meet strict water-conservation and environmental standards, secure local approvals before DEP review, and sign legally binding commitments under the GRID framework—while removing data centers from fast-track permitting and barring nondisclosure agreements. Local Water & Flood Resilience: Lehigh University researchers say AI can help reservoir and water-system operators plan for a future of tougher droughts and floods, starting with the Delaware River Basin. Wildlife Update: Pennsylvania Game Commission investigators reported “nothing new” in the July 27 shooting of a bald eagle in Crawford County; the bird is stabilizing after rehab, and officials are asking for tips. Beach Water Quality (Regional): New Jersey posted fecal bacteria swimming advisories at 10 Atlantic City beaches after enterococci levels exceeded state standards. Outdoor Improvements: DCNR is moving ahead with multimillion-dollar upgrades to Cook Forest State Park’s Ridge Campground restrooms and shower facilities, with work starting in 2027.

Data Center Crackdown: Gov. Josh Shapiro signed an executive order tightening Pennsylvania’s AI data center rules, removing projects from fast-track permitting and requiring local approval before the state will move forward; developers must meet GRID-style standards on energy costs, pollution and water use, local hiring, transparency, and community benefit agreements, with the state backing towns that reject projects. Cybersecurity for Water: A wave of cyberattacks targeting water and wastewater systems has disrupted operations in multiple states, with federal and environmental agencies urging utilities to keep control systems off direct internet exposure and strengthen access controls. Rural Hospitals: A PHC4 analysis of 63 rural hospitals found operating income and net patient revenue rose in fiscal 2025, but the gains could be undermined by expected federal funding cuts. Local Governance & Environment: Reading City Council advanced a zoning amendment to regulate and permit beekeeping apiaries across zoning districts, aiming to formalize where hives can go. Community Health Access: Pennsylvania’s ACA marketplace (Pennie) saw a major enrollment drop after federal subsidy changes, raising concerns about more uninsured residents and pressure on emergency care.

Data Center Debate in Pennsylvania: A new report digs into the environmental and health questions around data centers—power demand, cooling choices, water impacts, noise, and the lack of solid research on what it’s like to live near hyperscale sites. Local Safety on the Roads: PennDOT and partners held a “no zones” demonstration in Mercer County, showing how drivers can’t see cars in a truck’s blind spots and urging safer passing habits. Energy & Climate Research: A Lancet Planetary Health study warns that global warming hitting 3°C could expose far more older adults to dangerous heat than previously estimated, especially in South Asia and parts of the Persian Gulf. Outdoor Conservation: DCNR and the Pennsylvania Outdoor Corps planted 250 trees in Eagles Forest at Neshaminy State Park to mark the U.S. anniversary and expand conservation workforce access. Agriculture Innovation: Pennsylvania awarded $550K+ in Agricultural Innovation Grants to Lancaster County projects, including geothermal-powered greenhouse and dairy modernization. Wildlife Update: A wounded bald eagle in Crawford County is stabilizing after a gunshot injury, but rehab remains uncertain.

Water Quality Watch: New data finds unsafe E. coli levels in Philadelphia waterways, including the Delaware and Schuylkill rivers, raising public health concerns for swimmers and downstream communities. PFAS Cleanup: New Jersey lawmakers and DEP officials announced court-approved settlements to address long-standing statewide PFAS contamination. Recycling Fire Risk: Investigators report recurring fires at Pennsylvania and New Jersey recycling and scrap yards, with lithium-ion batteries blamed and oversight gaps leaving much of the burden to local responders. Energy & Climate Tech: DOE is backing a $14 million enhanced geothermal project in western Pennsylvania that would convert a shale gas well to geothermal heat and power. Nuclear Restart Progress: Constellation delivered a major transformer to the Three Mile Island site, a visible step toward restarting generation. Local Solar Growth: STAG Industrial energized new rooftop solar projects across Pennsylvania, expanding distributed solar capacity. Agriculture Impact: Sen. Chuck Schumer urged USDA to buy Concord grape products after Refresco canceled contracts affecting 126 growers in NY and PA. Public Safety/Transit: Pennsylvania awarded $54 million via the Multimodal Transportation Fund for road, bridge, and transit projects across 27 counties.

Data Centers & Power Demand: Duos Technologies and Axe Compute signed five-year hosting agreements totaling 55 MW of new AI data center capacity across multiple U.S. sites, valued at over $500 million, with readiness targeted for late 2026 into early 2027. Workforce & Clean Energy Training: California’s “Heat Pump Ready” program pairs educators with HVAC manufacturers to close heat-pump training gaps, offering schools up to $8,000 in equipment support. Wildlife Under Heat: A guide to how extreme heat stresses bees—hurting pollen quality and making foraging harder—plus practical steps Pennsylvanians can take to help pollinators cool off. Severe Weather & Flood Risk: Days of storms and record flooding in Indiana left at least seven dead, while Western Pa. saw heavy downpours and flooding along I-79; more storm threats are expected across the East Coast. Game & Fish Policy: The Pennsylvania Game Commission is ending its Deputy Game Warden program on Sept. 1, citing the need for a more efficient full-time law enforcement workforce and pointing to a Supreme Court “open fields” ruling. Chesapeake Bay Support Gaps: A new report finds Bay watershed technical assistance for local governments is uneven, with gaps in services and availability that could slow cleanup work.

Flooding & Storm Impacts (PA-linked): Heavy downpours and a Flood Watch kept western Pennsylvania on alert, including flooding along I-79 in Washington County as rain threatened to worsen already-saturated ground. Severe Weather Fatalities (Region): Across Indiana, days of storms and record flooding killed at least six people as White River waters peaked and emergency crews rescued residents and pets. Water Safety & Health: Penn State researchers are exploring whether exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals may contribute to endometrial cancer risk, with a focus on rural communities. Wildlife Safety: A viral Pennsylvania photo shows copperheads and a timber rattlesnake sharing the same rocky spot, with moderators urging people to avoid sharing exact locations to protect wildlife. Community & Environment: Pennsylvania Horticultural Society plant swaps return to Philadelphia in September, letting residents trade plants and cuttings. Data Privacy: Baylor Genetics disclosed a cybersecurity incident affecting patient and employee information, prompting legal action and privacy claims. Agriculture & Food Safety: A frozen dog food recall over possible salmonella contamination includes Pennsylvania among affected states.

Flood Disaster Watch: Severe storms and historic flooding in Indiana have killed at least five people, with rescues underway along the White River in the Indianapolis area after more than 11 inches of rain in two days; officials say a FEMA emergency declaration is in process. Western PA Weather: Pennsylvania’s western counties are under an Alert Day for flooding and severe storms, with a Flood Watch in effect and damaging wind and brief tornado risk possible. Water Contamination in PA: Upper Makefield residents impacted by a Sunoco jet-fuel pipeline leak say they’re still not confident their drinking water is safe long term, pushing for a permanent public water system after tests found petroleum-related chemicals in wells. Local Access & Conservation: PFBC and DCNR helped open an accessible Susquehanna River access site in Bradford County, adding a concrete boat launch and amenities for anglers and boaters. Data Center Governance Fight: A developer’s bid to force Archbald borough council members to recuse themselves from a massive data center plan is headed to court, raising concerns about local oversight and fairness. Habitat Stewardship: The Nature Conservancy is continuing controlled burns on Moosic Mountain in Lackawanna County, tying an Indigenous practice to wildfire prevention and habitat protection.

Flooding & Storm Impacts: Indiana is reeling after historic White River flooding tied to severe storms, with at least five deaths reported and dozens of rescues as rivers hit record levels. Local Water Contamination: In Upper Makefield Township, residents near a Sunoco pipeline jet-fuel leak say they’re still waiting for a lasting safe-water fix; a survey finds strong support for a permanent public water system, but many doubt current treatment will hold long term. Pennsylvania PFAS Push: Advocates are criticizing Pennsylvania’s slow Senate action on a proposed “forever chemicals” ban in consumer products, warning it may miss the election deadline. Outdoor Access & Conservation: PFBC and DCNR celebrated a new, accessible Susquehanna River access point in Bradford County, expanding public fishing and boating amenities. Invasive Species Watch: Warmer conditions could help spotted lanternflies and other invasive insects spread faster, raising stakes for Pennsylvania’s already-impacted ecosystems. Weather Alert (PA): A flood watch is in effect for parts of southwestern Pennsylvania through Monday morning as additional heavy rain could trigger flash flooding.

Data Center Noise Fight: A South Whitehall Township dispute over “Project Atlas” highlights how low-frequency humming from a proposed 1.5-million-square-foot data center could disrupt nearby students, with a township sound study pointing to nighttime impacts. Game Commission Overhaul: Pennsylvania is ending its 123-year-old Deputy Game Warden Program, dismissing about 170 deputies statewide as the agency shifts toward full-time professional wardens. Local Water Funding Pressure: The Franklin General Authority rejected a PENNVEST loan for a new water treatment plant after officials warned it could mean steep water-rate hikes without grant support. Air Quality & Industry Transition: A new report on cleaner steelmaking flags direct reduced iron as a lower-emission option, including in Pennsylvania’s steel region. Community & Early Learning: Building Blocks Learning Center opened its first Lackawanna County site in downtown Scranton, expanding infant through pre-K support for about 150 families. Invasive Species Update: Spotted lanternflies are now “here to stay” in Kentucky, with researchers warning they’ll likely worsen over the next few years.

Chesapeake Bay Transparency Fight: A Q&A with the Chesapeake Legal Alliance spotlights how data-center growth in the Bay region is colliding with water and energy concerns, while nondisclosure agreements can keep the public in the dark about how much is used. Wildlife Enforcement Overhaul: Pennsylvania is ending its Deputy Game Warden program (about 140 deputies) and also winding down the Fish and Boat Commission’s deputy waterways enforcement, citing modern legal and staffing realities. School Safety & Mental Health: Rep. Brenda Pugh announced $1M+ for behavioral health support and safer learning environments across multiple Luzerne County-area districts. Drinking Water Infrastructure: Lackawanna Valley reporting traces today’s water supply to 1800s-era reservoirs and notes nearly $100M in dam rehabilitation work by Pennsylvania American Water since 2012. Food Safety: Oma’s Pride recalled frozen raw dog food in 11 states, including Pennsylvania, after salmonella was found in a tested sample. Local Data-Center Pressure: A community group is organizing a 5K to support legal efforts against proposed data centers near Archbald’s Staback Park. Agriculture Climate Planning: A piece on “climate analogs” urges farmers to plan for future heat and rainfall swings using places that already match projected conditions.