Sprugeon v. Mason - Pennsylvania Supreme Court Opinion

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court issued a unanimous opinion in Sprugeon v. Mason, quashing the notice of appeal and dismissing the application for leave to file nunc pro tunc. The court cited Pa.R.A.P. 910(a)(5) regarding the scope of questions considered on appeal.

Keeling v. Fagan - Notice of Appeal Quashed

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court has issued a unanimous opinion in Keeling v. Fagan, quashing the Notice of Appeal. The court cited Pennsylvania Rule of Appellate Procedure 341(b) regarding final orders as the basis for its decision.

NY DEC Awards Grants for Hudson River Water Quality Projects

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has awarded $964,468 in grants to 14 projects focused on protecting water quality and enhancing environmental education along the Hudson River Estuary. The funding, part of the Hudson River Estuary Grants Program, will support local stewardship planning and initiatives in communities, with a significant portion directed towards disadvantaged areas.

DEC Closes Seasonal Access Roads Due to Mud Season

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has closed seasonal access roads and associated gates in Regions 5 and 6 due to 'mud season' conditions caused by the spring thaw. These closures are effective immediately and aim to prevent damage to roads from motor vehicle use, with reopening contingent upon drying and maintenance.

Lake Champlain Fisheries Public Meeting Announced

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced a public meeting on March 28, 2026, regarding the State of Lake Champlain Fisheries. The meeting, hosted with partners from Vermont and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, will provide updates on fisheries status, restoration efforts, and invasive species.

NY DEC Harmful Algal Bloom Management Roadmap

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has announced a new Harmful Algal Bloom (HAB) Roadmap, a five-year plan to guide management and research efforts across the state. The roadmap outlines six focus areas, including monitoring, water quality standards, mitigation research, and public outreach, to address the impacts of HABs on water resources, public health, and local economies.

DEC Advises Securing Dock Permits Before Repair Work

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is reminding residents and contractors to secure necessary permits before undertaking dock, pier, and bulkhead repair work. This advisory anticipates increased repair needs due to winter ice damage and aims to prevent construction delays and protect coastal environments.

Harwood Lake Dam Rehabilitation Project Completed

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) announced the completion of the Harwood Lake Dam reconstruction project. This completion allows for the return of scheduled trout stocking for the spring fishing season, with approximately 4,950 trout to be stocked.

USPTO Order Convening Appeals Review Panel for Ex parte Baurin

The USPTO has convened an Appeals Review Panel (ARP) to rehear ex parte Appeal 2024-002920 concerning Application 17/135,529. The review will focus on the Board's reversal of obviousness-type double patenting (OTDP) rejections. Appellant is authorized to file a limited brief by March 27, 2026.

USPTO Decision on Request for Rehearing for Ex parte Baurin

The USPTO Patent Trial and Appeal Board has issued a decision on a request for rehearing concerning application 17/135,529, filed by Nicolas Baurin and others. The decision, dated December 18, 2025, addresses the rehearing request related to a patent application.