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A Story of Cause and Effect
There is an absolute law of nature that lies at the basis of
our very existence. This law or principle known as “cause
and effect” may occur so subtly as to be barely noticeable,
or so rapidly that the consequences are unmistakable. Often
it is only in retrospect that we can pinpoint exact events that
put into motion widespread, profound effects that will touch
every generation that follows. Pennsylvania's forefathers set
in motion the wheels of such rapid change, that today's citizens
and Penn's Woods are still recovering from its effects.
To learn more about the issues and how your effect can be a
positive one, check out the brief video clips below and take
an interactive quiz through any of the links above. You will
learn more about the issues and find ways to get involved.
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Timber
The state’s plentiful forests provided its pioneers
with the timber needed for basic fuel and shelter. In the
1700s, it was also used as fuel in the production of iron.
By the mid 19th century the lumber business was booming as
the railroads made their way into the state and took an even
greater supply of our woodlands westward to help build a growing
nation. There were consequences. Seventy percent of the state’s
forests were lost, a new resource needed to be found. The
state turned toward coal. More
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Coal
Coal fueled the Industrial Revolution in Pennsylvania. People
began to attain the American Dream. Once again, consequences
followed when massive amounts of acid mine drainage spoiled
waterways throughout the state. Collapsed mines, underground
fires and lost lives were all sacrifices paid for industrial
prosperity. More
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Steel
In another part of the state the Steel Industry was booming.
While supplying the steel that helped build America, Pittsburgh
and surrounding areas were covered with thick clouds of toxic
dust. It killed and sickened many. The people in these areas
helped open the country's eyes to the effects of air pollution.
The Clean Air movement was born. More
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Lake Erie
Meanwhile, another unforeseen impact was being felt in the northwest
corner of the state. The abundance of sewage discharge and industrial
waste pushed Pennsylvania's once beautiful Lake Erie to the
brink of being declared a "dead lake." Today, with
funding for sewage facilities and pollution controls in place,
the residents of Erie face new challenges to the lake. More
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Development
Currently, the state’s farmlands are being depleted at
an alarming rate. Development and industrial growth are steadily
encroaching on the land which originally made Pennsylvania so
environmentally rich. Once open space is lost to development,
it's gone forever. Urban sprawl also creates the demand for
bigger and better roads. More
information
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Watch
the Complete Video Now!
The principle of Cause and Effect will determine the state's
future. Pennsylvania's citizens paid the price for the industrial
wealth that brought them the American Dream. Fortunately, the
dreams of the people of a new generation are changing. They
are longing for the virgin forests, clean waterways, and open
spaces that were once their heritage. Pennsylvania is experiencing
a rebirth. One that will give back to the people of future generations
an environment where peace, joy and solace will be theirs to
enjoy.
  
Echoes Through Penn's Woods is a production
of Commonwealth Media Services, and has been produced in cooperation
with GreenWorks for Pennsylvania
and the Environmental
Fund for Pennsylvania; with funding provided by the Pennsylvania
Department of Environmental Protection.
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