DCNR and partners providing better models book to inspire ideas for livable and attractive communities DCNR, in partnership with the Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) and The Conservation Fund, has released a 134-page book intended as a tool for local governments to encourage development that makes their communities more attractive, livable and prosperous. Better Models for Development in Pennsylvania is available to government planners, public officials, developers and interested citizens for them to use as a guide as they design and plan the future of their communities. “It is possible to balance conservation of natural areas and open space with development and economic return; in fact it’s essential for making our communities attractive, viable and healthy—places where people truly desire to live, work and play,” DiBerardinis said. “Gov. Rendell just signed Growing Greener II into law providing new dollars to communities, so now is an excellent time for officials to explore ideas on how to conserve resources, design and plan for new development and redevelopment, and better manage growth.” The book outlines six principles for better development: Conserve Pennsylvania’s farmland, natural areas and scenic assets; Maintain a clear edge between town and countryside; Build and maintain livable and attractive communities; Preserve historic resources; Respect local community character in new construction; and Reduce the impact of the car and promote walkability. “Thanks to the leadership, commitment and vision of Gov. Rendell and his team, Pennsylvania is poised to become the model for ‘growing greener’ in America,” said Larry Selzer, president of The Conservation Fund. “This publication lays out, for the first time, how communities across the state can balance economic development and environmental protection. We look forward to working with state and local leaders to implement these sustainable principles.” Better Models for Development in Pennsylvania was written by Edward T. McMahon, a fellow at the Urban Land Institute and formerly with The Conservation Fund, and Shelley S. Mastran, a preservation planner. Funds came from DCNR and The Conservation Fund. DCNR is working with The Conservation Fund and Ed McMahon to do some statewide training and education around the content of the book. Better Models also will be incorporated into some existing land use training programs being offered by the Governor’s Center for Local Government Services. To obtain a copy of the publication contact DCNR at (717) 787-7672. For more information about DCNR visit www.dcnr.state.pa.us. For more information about The Conservation Fund go to www.conservationfund.org.		August 2, 2005 Top Stories DCNR enrolls 52 state forest, park tracts in deer management assistance program For future environmental leaders, ‘pressing issues’ prove a snap DCNR to begin drawdown of lake at Ryerson Station State Park in Greene County Pennsylvania tops Envirothon DCNR and partners providing better models book to inspire ideas for livable and attractive communities Foundation that supports Pa.’s parks and forests gets new president TreeVitalize to teach citizens how to plant and care for trees this fall More News... Also in the News DCNR appoints new manager at Promised Land State Park New supervisor named for Allegheny National Forest Outdoor writers honor DCNR employee Heritage Parks Program honored Civil Service exam open for geologist manager Elk State Park If one is looking for the “wilds” of Pennsylvania, one couldn’t do much better than to visit Elk State Park in Elk County. Read more... Laurel Hill State Park In the Laurel Mountains of southcentral Pa., reaching out is all downhill. Read more... Featured Event: Trail-Building and Maintenance Techniques seminar/training More Events...