May 2009 Newslinks

• Best practices in Great Lakes wind energy to be advanced through new Wind Collaborative project Ann Arbor, Mich. – The Great Lakes Commission will receive $99,740 to fund the Great Lakes Wind Collaborative’s (GLWC) development of Best Practices to Accelerate Wind Power in the Great Lakes Region and Beyond. The Commission was one of 53 U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) wind energy grant recipients announced by Secretary of Energy Steven Chu at the recent WINDPOWER 2009 Conference in Chicago, with Commission staff in attendance. The Commission’s award is one of 11 projects funded in the Great Lakes region. Funded projects totaled $8.5 million nationwide. (May 27, 09) Great Lakes Commission | Commission des Grands Lacs [more on wind power in our area]
• Another invasive species enters Great Lakes - St. Catharines Standard - Ontario, CA Lake Ontario has a newly imported invasive species, and it's here to stay. Bloody-red shrimp, first discovered in the Great Lakes in 2006 and multiplying rapidly, could pose ecological and economic risks to Lake Ontario. Like zebra mussels, the notorious molluscs that wreaked havoc on municipal water supplies and hydroelectric companies upon their arrival, the shrimp are native to eastern Europe and were likely brought over in the ballast water tanks of ships (May 29,09) [more on Invasive Species ]
• Regular light bulbs made super-efficient with ultra-fast laser | Laser process doubles brightness for the same amount of energy An ultra-powerful laser can turn regular incandescent light bulbs into power-sippers, say optics researchers at the University of Rochester. The process could make a light as bright as a 100-watt bulb consume less electricity than a 60-watt bulb while remaining far cheaper and radiating a more pleasant light than a fluorescent bulb can. (May 29, 09) EurekAlert! Public News List [more our Energy]
• DEC to present cleanup plan in Victor - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Victor, N.Y. — State Department of Environmental Conservation officials will present a plan in late June for cleaning up underground contamination in the western part of town. (May 29, 09) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Brownfields in our area]
• The critters and creatures of Canandaigua's Sucker Brook - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow “The point of the exhibition is to see what insects kids can find,” said Nadia Harvieux, an educator with the Canandaigua Lake Watershed Alliance. “The cleaner the water is, the more diverse amount of insects you will find. That is what we are trying to determine.” (May 30, 09) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow  [more on Animals and our Environment.]
• Cnylink Local News: Syracuse CoE is a Green lab The entire design is ultra-state-of-the-art itself, but it is also being constructed to enable companies to bring in and test new building materials, equipment and systems in a full scale operating setting – essentially, it’s a beta site for environmental systems. (May 29, 09) Cnylink... Your link to Central New York [more on Green Business in our area]
• R News | 24 Hour Local News | TOP STORIES | State says Turf Fields Are Safe The next generation of artificial turf is safe. That's according to a study released Friday by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. The study found the type of rubber infill used in the synthetic surface poses no significant threat to surface or ground water, and the lead concentrations in the rubber were well below federal safety hazard standards. (May 29, 09) R News | 24 Hour Local News | TOP STORIES[more on Environmental Health in our area]
• Rochester Area Seeks High Speed Rail Funds |The community received an update on federal funding that's becoming available for a high speed rail system. U.S. Congresswoman Louise Slaughter has been meeting with federal officials in anticipation of $8 billion that the federal government plans to hand out for various high speed rail projects. (May 29, 09) R News | 24 Hour Local News | TOP STORIES [more on Transportation in our area]
• Yates County: Land trust lands prize - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Yates County, N.Y. — A family from Illinois has sold 72 acres of forest — encompassing half of Conklin/Parish Gully in Yates County, near Naples — to the Finger Lakes Land Trust. This once privately owned property borders acreage deemed a priority in the state Department of Environmental Conservation’s open-space plan, and it has been identified by the National Audubon Society as an “Important Bird Area,” said Andrew Zepp, the land trust’s executive director. (May 29, 09)Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Urban Sprawl in our area]
• Rail advocates' day in Rochester is coming | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle While high-speed rail for Rochester seems years away, June 17 is shaping up to be a big day for its local advocates. That's the day the federal government will begin shaping the list of contenders across the nation on what types of projects will receive $8 billion in passenger-rail funding. (May 30, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Transportation in our area]
• Two Bears Killed on Buffalo-Area Roads in Two Weeks - 13WHAM.com Buffalo, N.Y. (AP) - Black bears have been struck and killed on Buffalo-area highways twice within the past two weeks.Home - 13WHAM.com (May 28, 09) [more on Animals and our environment]
• State Health Department Launches New Web Site for Environmental Health Data Albany, N.Y. (May 28, 2009) – The New York State Health Department (DOH) today launched the Environmental Public Health Tracker, a new Web-based tool that will provide public access to a variety of environmental and health data, as well as track environmental trends. Data are being added to the Web site at www.nyhealth.gov/ephtracker in phases, with the first phase focusing on data for asthma and heart attack hospitalizations, birth defects, and cancer incidence. The second phase will include information on air and water environmental health hazards. (May 28, 09) New York State Department of Health [more on Environmental Health]
• Monroe County rejects study of biking in parks | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle A Democratic proposal to create a task force to examine off-road cycling in county parks was defeated along party lines Tuesday in a County Legislature committee. democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York(May 27, 09) [more on Parks]
• DEC faces loss of 225 employees | recordonline.com NEW PALTZ — Outside, at a picnic to celebrate the grand opening of an environmentally-friendly regional headquarters in New Paltz last week, the commissioner of the state Department of Environmental Conservation smiled big and talked of a promising future with his employees. But inside, after the cupcakes and photos, Commissioner Pete Grannis holed up in a small conference room and foreshadowed a tough year for his staff. (May 28, 09) recordonline.com - Times Herald-Record - recordonline.com
• Water from Melting Greenland Ice Sheath May Impact Northeast US Coast | New research by the National Center for Atmospheric Research points to the possibility that water from the melting Greenland Ice Sheath could change oceanic circulation in the North Atlantic, in a way that would raise sea levels off the Northeast by about eight inches more than the average global sea level rise that is expected with global warming. (May 27, 09) Environmental News Network -- Know Your Environment [more on Climate Disruption here]
• ENVIRONMENT: Lakes land deal may be near - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper In the ongoing negotiations to get the city-owned land surrounding Hemlock and Canadice Lakes into the state's hands, the official line from the regional Department of Environmental Conservation office is that there's nothing new to report. But clearly, there is. (May 27, 09) Rochester City Newspaper [more on Hemlock and Canadice Lakes]
• WXXI: Great Lakes Restoration Discussed (2009-05-27) Local government, business and environmental leaders came to Camp Eastman in Irondequoit on Wednesday to hear from John Austin. He's the author of a report that says investing $26 billion in the 11 states and two Canadian Provinces around the Great Lakes will produce at least $50 billion in long term economic benefit to the region. (May 27, 09) [more on Great Lakes]
• The Nature Conservancy in New York - Business, Labor, Environmental Coalition Calls for 2009 Clean Water, Clean Air & Green Jobs Bond Act State Government Urged to Protect Pure Water and to Provide 100,000 New, Green Jobs for New Yorkers Albany, NY — May 27, 2009 — A broad coalition spanning business, economic development, labor and environmental groups called on the state to place a $5 billion Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Bond Act on the November 2009 ballot. New York State Assembly Environmental Conservation Committee Chair Robert Sweeney convened a hearing in Albany to consider the merits of draft legislation that would place the measure on the ballot. (May 27, 09) The Nature Conservancy - Protecting Nature, Preserving Life  [more on Green Business]
• Troubled Water Canada and the U.S. can no longer afford to take the Great Lakes for granted | Thirty years ago, newspaper headlines declared Lake Erie "dead." It was the kind of news that shocked us into action. Forty areas of concern, were identified around the Great Lakes. These were chronically polluted areas in need of immediate clean up. In the three decades since those headlines appeared, only two of the sites on the Canadian side of the border have been delisted. (May 23, 09) [more on Great Lakes]
• Scientists propose helping wildlife relocate due to climate change Rapid climate change is forcing scientists to consider for the first time whether to help wildlife relocate to places where they are not currently found, says a group of international researchers who have created a tool for evaluating such relocations. (May 25, 09)CBCNews.ca - Breaking News, Canada, World, Health, Business, Entertainment [more on Climate Change here]
• GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON REQUIRES NEW STIMULUS JOBS TO BE POSTED ON PUBLIC WEBSITE Site Will Make New Jobs More Accessible to New Yorkers Governor’s Request Furthers Transparency in Stimulus Spending Governor David A. Paterson today announced that every firm that the State hires with American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds is required to post any jobs created by these funds to the New York State Job Bank, which can be accessed at www.labor.ny.gov. In a memo sent this morning, the Governor directed State agencies to work with contracted firms to ensure that the created jobs are posted. This will streamline the often difficult employment search process at a time when many New Yorkers face unemployment, and will more quickly and efficiently achieve the Governor’s ultimate goal to get New Yorkers back to work. (May 27, 09) [more on Green Business]
• Local farms reap cash for preservation - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Macedon is about halfway to its goal of preserving 6,000 acres of farmland in the town thanks to the program, said Town Supervisor Bill Hammond. Hammond’s 500-acre farm on Canandaigua Road was the first farm to be preserved through the program begun in 1996. So far, the program has protected 72,668 acres on 303 farms statewide, according to the governor’s office. (May 27, 09) [more on Urban Sprawl]
• Judge bars new law on bottle deposits | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle ALBANY — A federal judge issued a preliminary injunction Wednesday that stops the state from charging a nickel deposit on water bottles starting Monday. (May 28, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Recycling]
• Fish on drugs | Canada | News | Toronto Sun Discarded pharmaceuticals are threatening health of the Great Lakes  | Water, water, everywhere. But is it fit to drink? Trent University professor Tom Whillans still keeps a copy of a newspaper headline from 1978: "Lake Erie dead," it proclaimed. (May 25, 09) Toronto Sun [more on Great Lakes]
• Great Lakes research, laws are shifting focus Impact on physical, mental health on tap | Though the Great Lakes have been the driving force behind many environmental laws since the early 1970s, they soon may undergo a moderate shift in how they're researched and regulated for future generations. (May 26, 09) toledoblade.com --[more on Great Lakes]
• RIT Unveils Hydrogen Fueling Station  Efforts continue to make upstate New York a new hub for clean energy. Frank Murray, the head of the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) was at RIT announcing a new partnership with the school; it included helping unveil RIT’s new hydrogen fueling station and demonstrating its use with hydrogen test vehicles in use on the campus. (May 26, 09) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens  [more on Energy]
• Rochester Adds to its Urban Garden | The City of Rochester continues to invest in its landscape. The forestry program has been busy planting hundreds of trees all over the city. Rochester's forestry division maintains 70,000 public trees located along streets, in parks and cemeteries. The city spends close to $1 million a year on its urban garden. (May 26, 09) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens [more on Plants and our Environment]
• GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES $16.5 MILLION IN STIMULUS FUNDING FOR ROCHESTER AREA TRANSPORTATION INFRASTRUCTURE - Total Economic Recovery Investment in Road and Bridge Projects for Region Reaches $51.5 Million  - Governor David A. Paterson today announced the certification of an additional $16.5 million for transportation projects in the Rochester area through the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). These investments will provide for essential highway and bridge repairs and other long-term improvements that will create an estimated 396 jobs. These certifications bring to the total ARRA funding allotment for Rochester area transportation projects to $51.5 million. The area is expected to receive $74 million in economic-recovery funding for Monroe, Orleans, Wayne, Genesee, Ontario, Wyoming and Livingston counties. (May 21, 09) Economic Recovery [more on Transportation ]
• Broome County exec seeks natural gas development BINGHAMTON – Brooke County Executive Barbara Fiala traveled to Albany to lobby state leaders on the potential for natural gas development in the greater Binghamton region.  Fiala met with representatives of Gov. Paterson, Sen. Malcolm Smith and the head of the Department of Environmental Conservation, Peter Grannis. New York State News on the Net!(May 23-24, 09) [ More on Energy]
• 'Protect Against Tick Bites,' Urges State Health Commissioner May is Lyme Disease Awareness Month Albany,N.Y. (May 22, 2009) -- Governor David A. Paterson has proclaimed May Lyme Disease Awareness Month to remind New Yorkers to "Be Tick Free" and take precautions from now through the fall season to protect themselves against potential tick-borne diseases, such as Lyme disease. Lyme disease is caused by the bite of an infected deer tick. Ticks are active when the weather stays above freezing, usually from April through November, with peak activity in spring and early summer and again in the fall. If left untreated, Lyme disease can cause serious health complications, including musculoskeletal, neurological and cardiac problems. (May 22, 09) New York State Department of Health [More on Lyme Disease]
• State Health Commissioner Reminds New Yorkers: 'Bicycle Helmets Save Lives' May is Bicycle Safety Month ALBANY, NY (May 22, 2009) -- In recognition of Bicycle Safety Month, State Health Commissioner Richard F. Daines, M.D., urges New Yorkers to wear helmets and follow other safety precautions to ensure that their bicycling outings are safe. "During the warmer months more bicyclists will be out on trails and roads enjoying this great outdoor activity," said Commissioner Daines. "Every time you get on a bike, think safety so that you may enjoy many more bicycling outings to come." (May 22, 09) New York State Department of Health [More on Transportation]
• Cuts to state parks operations hurt public, state economy  | Faced with a 15% reduction in operating funds, the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) has been forced to shorten seasons and reduce hours at 100 of the state’s 213 parks and historic sites. The agency is also anticipating losing 134 positions, part of statewide personnel reductions ordered by Governor Paterson. (Spring/Summer 09) GreenSpace [More on Parks]
• City of Rochester | City of Rochester News Release: MVP Health Care' Tuesday Nature Nights Begin May 26 "MVP Health Care Tuesday Nature Nights," the City’s outdoor series focusing on the beauty and recreational benefits of Rochester’s natural surroundings, begins 6–8 p.m., Tues., May 26 with a guided bike ride through the High Falls neighborhood. Participants will meet at the Pont de Rennes pedestrian bridge, behind the Centers at High Falls, 60 Brown’s Race, and discover more about the newest developments along the Genesee River and the history of the area during their excursion. These FREE tours, which continue every Tuesday through August 25, are led by City staff and members of the Rochester Bicycling Club and are designed for all ages. Tours include bike rides, hikes and canoe paddles, often utilizing the nationally-touted Genesee Riverway Trail. (May 20, 09) City of Rochester [more on Calendar events]
• Nickel deposit on water bottles hits snag in Albany | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle ALBANY — New Yorkers are supposed to be bracing for paying a nickel deposit on water bottles starting June 1. But state leaders who approved the plan less than two months ago are now haggling over details of how to change it, putting in doubt when it will go into effect. (May 24, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Recycling]
• Owner of St. Paul Street school site seeks brownfield status, tax credits | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The owner of a former city factory that housed two schools in recent years — and will host a third this fall — has asked the state to declare the site a brownfield and provide tax credits to clean it. "May 26, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Brownfields]
• The “Veggie Mobile” among finalists in global "Designing for Better Health" competition TROY - Capital District Community Gardens is excited to announce that The Veggie Mobile, its innovative "produce market on wheels" serving low income urban neighborhoods, has been named a finalist in Changemaker's "Designing for Better Health" competition.  A panel of judges selected The Veggie Mobile as one of just ten finalists from a worldwide field of entries. (May 21, 09) New York State News on the Net! [more on Food & Environment]
• If You Care, Leave It There - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation DEC Advises: Do Not Disturb Fawns and Other Young Wildlife The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) today reminded New Yorkers to keep their distance and not to disturb newborn fawns or other young wildlife as many animals are in the peak season for giving birth or hatching young. (may 21, 09) [more on Animals]
• House panels will make haste on climate bill, Hoyer says - NYTimes.com Expect another fast-paced month of committee action on a sweeping global warming and energy bill ahead of possible floor debate in late June or early July, House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer said today. (May 22, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia [more on Climate Change]
• Smart Grid Policy; Notice Requesting Supplemental Comments  | SUMMARY: On March 19, 2009, the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (Commission) issued a Proposed Policy Statement and Action Plan (Proposed Policy Statement) that, among other things, proposed an interim rate policy to encourage the development of smart grid systems. In this notice, the Commission seeks supplemental comments regarding rate recovery for certain smart grid investments. DATES: Comments are due May 28, 2009. Recovery and Reinvestment Act [more on Green Business]
• GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES $135 MILLION IN STIMULUS FUNDING FOR TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS ACROSS THE STATE Governor David A. Paterson today announced the certification of an additional $135.3 million for highway and bridge improvements through the federal American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). The funding will allow 48 new projects to move forward, creating an estimated 3,247 jobs across the State, according to the Federal Highway Administration. Today’s announcement brings the total number of ARRA-certified transportation projects to 174 at a cost of $680.9 million, of which the federal stimulus package has provided $522.9 million. (May 21, 09) Press Releases [more on Transportation]
• DEC Unveils "Green" Building, Announces Mileage Reduction, Green Purchasing and Other Highlights - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Commissioner Dedicates New Regional HQ in New Paltz Commissioner Pete Grannis today officially opened the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) new environmentally friendly regional office in New Paltz and announced recent DEC "green" achievements in reducing energy use, increasing the use of renewable energy and increasing green purchasing. (5/20/09) Press Releases - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation [more on Green Living]
• 5/19/2009~Interior Secretary Salazar Awards States More than $61 Million to Help Wildlife Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today that more than $61 million will be distributed to the fish and wildlife agencies of the 50 states, commonwealths, the District of Columbia, territories, to help conserve and recover imperiled fish and wildlife through the State Wildlife Grant Program. The State Wildlife Grant program (SWG) provides states, the District of Columbia, commonwealths and territories federal funds for the development and implementation of programs for the benefit of fish and wildlife and their habitats, including species that are not hunted or fished. These program funds come from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. (May 19, 09) Northeast Region, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service [more stories on Animals]
• Wind turbines becoming growth industry in Ohio - Once consigned to Scandinavia, wind turbines have suddenly blossomed into a U.S. growth industry. The behemoths that capture the public imagination are well established in the nation's "wind corridor" from Texas to Montana. And now Ohio projects -- from Lake Erie to western Ohio -- are proposed or planned. (May 20, 09) Cleveland OH Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - cleveland.com [more on Wind Power]
• GOV SITE - STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR DAVID A. PATERSON ON TWO NEWLY CONFIRMED H1N1 CASES – THE FIRST IN ALBANY AND GREENE COUNTIES “This morning, I was informed by the State Department of Health that testing at its Wadsworth Laboratories confirmed two new cases of H1N1 (swine flu) in Albany and Greene counties. These are the first confirmed H1N1 cases in each of those counties. (May 21, 09) Governor David A. Paterson Press Releases [more stories on Environmental Health]
• Bicycle still beats subway & taxi in Queens-to-midtown rush-hour race When it comes to getting around the city, two wheels are still better than four. For the fifth year in a row, cycling ruled the road in Transportation Alternatives' annual commuter race Thursday, with a biker beating a straphanger and a cabbie. (May 22, 09) New York News, Traffic, Sports, Weather, Entertainment and Gossip - NY Daily News  [more stories on Transportation]  
• Green Jobs - A GLOBE-Net Perspective  - GLOBE-Net (May 19, 2009) - For several weeks GLOBE-Net has been asking its readers:  Should the Economy Recovery Plan focus mainly on green jobs? The poll results to date indicate strong support (61%) for making green jobs a key focus of such plans. (May 21, 09) Environmental News Network -- Know Your Environment [more stories on Green Business]
• Learning about Home Energy Use from Google If you're an RG&E customer, you probably have to read your own meter.  You mark where the gauges are on a postcard, and then send it in.  You probably don't know what any of it means.  If you did, you could save money. The new Google Power Meter makes you your own meter reader.   (May 21, 09) RochesterHomePage [more stories on Energy]
• Ontario County Driven to Go Green  | Several municipalities in Ontario County are hoping to get a piece of the federal stimulus pie so they can go green more quickly. (May 20, 09) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens [more Green Living news]
• Diamond Delivers Greener Packaging · Environmental Leader · Green Business, Sustainable Business, and Green Strategy News for Corporate Sustainability Executives Diamond Packaging is using recyclable and renewable source materials and wind power to create a greener package for Highland Lilac Perfume. (May 14, 09) Environmental Leader · Green Business, Sustainable Business, and Green Strategy News for Corporate Sustainability Executives [more Green Business news]
• DEVELOPMENT: From brownfield to brownstone - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper A troubled parcel in the Village of Pittsford may soon be redeveloped. The Village Board has approved new zoning laws for 75 Monroe Avenue - the former Monoco Oil asphalt plant - and surrounding undeveloped parcels, designating them for residential use. In total, more than 30 acres of land have been rezoned. (May 20, 09) Rochester City Newspaper [more Brownfield stories]}
• Monroe County confirms second swine flu case | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle As the H1N1 flu makes a slight resurgence in New York, Monroe County health officials reported a second confirmed case of so-called swine flu here Wednesday. (May 21, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
• Bottled Water Companies Sue to Block a New Deposit Fee - NYTimes.com ALBANY — A coalition of bottled water companies filed suit on Tuesday to block an expanded bottle deposit law scheduled to take effect next month, arguing that the law, which imposes a deposit fee on bottled water sold in New York State, is unconstitutional. (May 19, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia
• 05/19/2009: President Obama Announces National Fuel Efficiency Policy WASHINGTON, DC – President Obama today – for the first time in history – set in motion a new national policy aimed at both increasing fuel economy and reducing greenhouse gas pollution for all new cars and trucks sold in the United States. The new standards, covering model years 2012-2016, and ultimately requiring an average fuel economy standard of 35.5 mpg in 2016, are projected to save 1.8 billion barrels of oil over the life of the program with a fuel economy gain averaging more than 5 percent per year and a reduction of approximately 900 million metric tons in greenhouse gas emissions. This would surpass the CAFE law passed by Congress in 2007 required an average fuel economy of 35 mpg in 2020. News Releases | Newsroom | USEPA
• Climate change driving Michigan mammals north (Includes interview) - Digital Journal: Your News Network Some Michigan mammal species are rapidly expanding their ranges northward, apparently in response to climate change, a new study shows. The finding, by researchers at the University of Michigan, Michigan State University and Ohio's Miami University, appears in the June issue of the journal Global Change Biology. (May 14, 09) Digital Journal: Your News Network
• Great Lakes scientists soliciting research topics from the public | As last-minute preparations were made at the University of Toledo Monday for one of the largest biennial gatherings of Great Lakes scientists, two federal research agencies tried to get a better handle on what the public expects now that the nation's president is from the Great Lakes region. (May 19, 09) toledoblade.com --
• Department of Energy - Locke, Chu Announce Significant Steps in Smart Grid Development WASHINGTON - U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke and U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced significant progress that will help expedite development of a nationwide "smart" electric power grid. A Smart Grid would replace the current, outdated system and employ real-time, two-way communication technologies to allow users to connect directly with power suppliers. The development of the grid will create jobs and spur the development of innovative products that can be exported. Once implemented, the Smart Grid is expected to save consumers money and reduce America's dependence on foreign oil by improving efficiency and spurring the use of renewable energy sources.  (May 18, 09) Energy.gov press releases
• Recycling center, cannabis factory among New Yorkers' ideas for federal stimulus money - syracuse.com Gov. David Paterson's economic recovery cabinet has released more of New Yorkers' ideas for spending federal economic stimulus money. So far, there are 18,000 ideas worth at least $100 billion. They are competing for about $4 billion. (May 19, 09) Syracuse NY Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - syracuse.com
• NYSERDA Awards $1.5 million to University at Buffalo to Establish Clean Energy Business Incubator Program Buffalo, NY—The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) today announced an award of $1.5 million to the University at Buffalo Office of Science, Technology Transfer and Economic Outreach to establish a clean energy business incubator program that will provide business support to accelerate the successful development of early-stage, clean energy technology companies in Western New York.  Through this award and other ongoing efforts, NYSERDA is building the capacity to foster innovative clean energy companies, grow the clean energy industry in New York, and expand the State’s “green collar” workforce. (May 14, 09) New York State Energy Research and Development Authority
• EPA Announces Energy Star label for Computer Servers   Contact: Enesta Jones, 202-564-4355 / 7873 / jones.enesta@epa.gov   (Washington, D.C. - May 18, 2009) For the first time, EPA announced Energy Star requirements for computer servers that will protect the environment and result in significant energy savings. On average, computer servers that earn the Energy Star label will be 30 percent more energy efficient than standard servers.    If all servers sold in the United States meet this new specification, energy cost savings would grow to $800 million per year and prevent greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from more 1 million vehicles.   Computer servers that earn the Energy Star label will include: ·         Efficient power supplies that generate less waste heat, reducing the need for excess air conditioning in the facilities where they are housed; ·         Improved power quality, which provides building-wide efficiency benefits;  ·         Capabilities to measure real time power use, processor utilization, and air temperature, which improves manageability and lowers total cost of ownership; ·         Advanced power management features to save energy across various operating states; and ·         A power and performance data sheet for purchasers that standardizes key information on energy performance, features and other capabilities.   Awarding the Energy Star label to computer servers is part of a broader EPA initiative to address growing national data center energy consumption.    More information on the new specification and all EPA’s data center initiatives: http://www.energystar.gov/datacenters --from U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases
• Meeting on lakes spotlights UT's gains Top U.S., Canadian scientists to attend To the layman, a conference being held at the University of Toledo this week may appear to be just the latest in a confusing collection of Great Lakes events. But to those who intimately track the science behind the Earth's largest source of fresh surface water, this week's International Association of Great Lakes Research conference says a lot about UT's ambition to become an academic powerhouse for environmental studies. (May 18, 09) toledoblade.com --
• RIT study maps environmental controversy over gas drilling in Catskills Divided communities await New York state action | New research indicates that environmental media campaigns to stop gas drilling in the Catskills of New York state, while highly publicized, so far have had uncertain impact on stopping plans for drilling in the region’s Marcellus Shale. The results provide insights into the potential impact of news reports to affect policy change. (April 30, 09) RIT - University News
• Declaring War on the Invisible Monster | City | Buffalo Rising ‎And the fact is, in many parts of Buffalo--as in most of New York's urban areas--children are now drowning in a sea of ‎lead. And, cruelly, lead poisoning makes majorities out of minorities: more than 90% of Buffalo's African-American ‎children, and 64% of Hispanic children, are living in some of our state's worst lead poisoning zip codes. "This is more than a health crisis--it's a social injustice," Clotilde said. It's both shocking and heartbreaking to hear that fully one third of all lead poisoning cases reported in 2006 in New York ‎‎(outside of New York City) were from six zip codes in Buffalo. If that doesn't send a chill down ‎your spine, reread it. Those six zip codes are: 14207 (Black Rock, Riverside), 14208 (Hamlin ‎Park, Cold Spring), 14211 (Schiller Park, etc.), 1421 (Broadway-Fillmore), 14213 (West Side), ‎and 14215 (Kenfield, etc.). (May 17, 09) Buffalo Rising | Your Guide to Buffalo NY News, Arts, Events & Buffalo Restaurants
• Expansion of bottle-deposit law faces delay | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal ALBANY - Gov. David Paterson and state lawmakers are seeking to delay the expansion of the state's bottle-deposit law by at least a month over concerns that bottlers can't quickly implement the new changes. (May 14, 09) http://www.theithacajournal.com/
• Congress pushed to OK Great Lakes aid Plan has $475M for restoration  | Representatives of Great Lakes industry, environment, government, and policy groups yesterday called on Congress to approve President Obama's $3.6 trillion budget plan because it contains a provision to set aside $475 million to restore the lakes, collectively the world's largest source of fresh surface water. (May 15, 09) toledoblade.com --
• GOV SITE - STATEMENT FROM GOVERNOR DAVID A. PATERSON ON THE START OF HUDSON RIVER DREDGING PROJECT “The start of the Hudson River dredging project marks another chapter in the story of a river coming back from the brink. Forty years ago, the Hudson River was a poster child for pollution and mocked as an open sewer. But through the Clean Water Act, the upgrade of wastewater treatment plants and increased public vigilance fostered by the growing public interest in environmental protection, the Hudson has steadily improved and it is cleaner than it has been in decades. Today, we mark another step forward in the reclaiming of this river for the people and communities of New York. As we celebrate the 400th anniversary of this magnificent river's discovery, there is no more fitting time to undertake this project. (May 15, 09) Press Releases
• PARKS: Lej approves Bay-area parks plan - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper The plan, which sets out a list of recommendations for the county parks along or near Irondequoit Bay, drew some 70-plus speakers to the chambers. There was a good mix of people who support the plan and those who are troubled by it, though off-road cycling proponents turned out in larger numbers. (May 13, 09) http://www.rochestercitynewspaper.com/
• Young wildlife usually don't need human help, even if critters appear orphaned | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle According to the state Wildlife Rehabilitation Council, which has more than 1,000 members statewide, rehabbers like Zimmerman and Balonek care for more than 20,000 abandoned, orphaned or injured animals annually. Nationally, hundreds of thousands of small mammals, birds and herptiles (reptiles and amphibians) are cared for and released by members of the national Wildlife Rehabilitators Association. (May 16, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
• Bikers vs. Hikers at County Parks - 13WHAM.com The Monroe County Legislature voted 16-13 Wednesday night in favor of adopting a master plan that will temporarily allow mountain bikers on the trails of Tryon Park and Irondequoit Bay Park West. (May 13, 09) Home - 13WHAM.com
• Natural gas efficiency targets approved ALBANY – The State Public Service Commission Thursday established near- and long-term targets for gas efficiency in an historic move designed to significantly decrease the amount of natural gas used by home and business owners over the next 10 years. It also sets forth a process for approval of programs and phasing of existing interim utility programs into a comprehensive statewide gas efficiency program.  (May 15, 09) New York State News on the Net!
• DEC has improved monitoring of state oil and gas drilling operations, lease revenue, says DiNapoli ALBANY – The State Department of Environmental Conservation is doing a better job of monitoring whether the state’s taxpayers are receiving their appropriate share of revenue from gas and oil well and storage operations located on public lands, according to an audit released by State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli. (May 15, 09) New York State News on the Net!
• Scientists Develop Mathematical Model To Predict The Immune Response To Influenza  Researchers at the University of Rochester have developed a mathematical model to predict immune responses to infection with influenza A viruses, including novel viruses such as the emergent 2009 influenza A (H1N1). This model examines the contributions of specific sets of immune cells in fighting influenza A virus. The model also helps predict when during the immune response to viral infection antiviral therapy would be most effective. (May 14, 09) Medical News Today: Health News
• 5/15/09 - TheStar.com | Business | For and against wind power Wind energy, according to flyers handed out by some anti-wind activists, is a sham designed to exploit society's inclination to go green. (May 12, 09) http://www.thestar.com/
• 5/13/2009~Endangered species: Celebrations and challenges in the Northeast Region Endangered species follow a long and winding path to recovery. Some critters hold tenuously to continued existence – like threatened piping plovers along the Atlantic coast from Canada to North Carolina with fewer than two fledged chicks per nesting pair most years, not even enough to sustain a population that numbers fewer than 2,000 pairs, let alone build that population up.  (May 13, 09) Northeast Region, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
• Legislation proposed to investigate trace amounts of pharmaceuticals found in New York water WASHINGTON DC – In response to reports of trace amounts of pharmaceuticals, including estrogen and codeine, found in New York waterways and around the country, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand announced legislative action to study the presence of these drugs in drinking water and the long term health effects on children and families. Senator Gillibrand will work to move her provision this week when the Senate considers comprehensive legislation to improve water infrastructure across the country. (May 13, 09) New York State News on the Net!
• Parks Take Back Seat to Budget Deficit - Rochester Mayor Bob Duffy presents his proposed budget Friday morning. With a multi- million dollar deficit to fix, we expect to hear about a number of city projects that "won't" be funded this year. (May 13, 09) R News: As It Happens, Where It Happens
• Buffalo poised to display its green side to 3,000 visitors : Home: The Buffalo News If you believe our poor meteorological reputation, bringing a solar power conference to Buffalo is like talking about snow removal in Phoenix or preparing for hurricanes in Minneapolis. But Buffalo this week hosts one of the largest national conferences on solar and other renewable energy sources, and that’s not a punch line for a joke in a Jay Leno monologue. (May 11, 09) The Buffalo News
• Administrator Lisa P. Jackson to Testify on EPA’s 2010 Budget Proposal  (Washington, D.C. – May 12, 2009) Tomorrow, May 13, 2009, Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lisa P. Jackson will testify before a hearing of the Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Subcommittee on EPA’s 2010 budget proposal. The $10.5 billion proposal, announced on Friday, takes significant steps to protect human health and the environment while improving accountability, transparency and fiscal responsibility at a time when every dollar counts. Hearing details:   WHEN: Hearing begins 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 13   WHERE:   Interior, Environment and Related Agencies Subcommittee - 124 Dirksen Senate Office Building, Washington, D.C. WEBCAST:  A live webcast of the subcommittee hearing will be available at http://appropriations.senate.gov/  following the conclusion of a full committee hearing that will be webcast beginning at 9:45 a.m. Eastern. An archived copy will also be available on the committee’s website. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• Monroe County Legislature approves parks proposal | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle After an outpouring of public comment, much-debated guidelines for park use received mixed support from county lawmakers on Tuesday, passing 16 to 13. (May 14, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
• South Bend Tribune: Ill winds blow no good to Great Lakes, experts say LANSING — As contaminated sediment is cleaned up in the Great Lakes, persistent pollutants continue to blow in, threatening again to poison soil and harm human health, experts say. And that reality has some experts questioning whether it's worthwhile to spend money to remove toxic sediments if they'll become contaminated again in a matter of years. (May 10, 09) http://www.southbendtribune.com/favicon.ico
• 2-month project to dredge Rochester Harbor begins | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has started a dredging project at the Rochester Harbor, according to the Monroe County Department of Transportation. (May 11, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
• GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON AND CONGRESSMAN ISRAEL PROPOSE “SMART ENERGY CORRIDOR” AND FIRST “ENERGY SMART CAMPUS” FOR LONG ISLAND Bold Energy Initiatives Will Help Put People to Work by Creating Clean Energy Jobs State Will Partner with the Long Island Power Authority, Stony Brook University and Farmingdale State College Governor David A. Paterson and Congressman Steve Israel today announced that the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA), along with Stony Brook University and Farmingdale State College, have proposed the creation of Long Island’s first integrated Smart Energy Corridor. The initiative would assist residential, commercial and industrial LIPA customers in monitoring and reducing energy usage, increase reliability, encourage energy efficiency by facilitating smarter technologies, and create clean energy jobs. (May 11, 09) Press Releases
• CDC: Not The Time For Complacency Regarding H1N1 Officials at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention say they are concerned that there is a public perception that the H1N1 flu outbreak is "winding down." (May 12, 0-9) RochesterHomePage
• CDC H1N1 Flu A New Virus Emerges Novel influenza A (H1N1) is a new flu virus of swine origin that was first detected in April, 2009. The virus is infecting people and is spreading from person-to-person, and has sparked a growing outbreak of illness in the United States with an increasing number of cases being reported internationally as well. CDC anticipates that there will be more cases, more hospitalizations and more deaths associated with this new virus in the coming days and weeks because the population has little to no immunity against it. Novel influenza A (H1N1) activity is now being detected in two of CDC’s routine influenza surveillance systems as reported in the May 8, 2009 FluView. FluView is a weekly report that tracks U.S. influenza activity through multiple systems across five categories. (May 11, 09) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
• When will next deadly pandemic strike? | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Concerns over a deadly flu pandemic have started to ease, but the public health emergencies declared worldwide were signs of the virus' potential. (May 12, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
• Monroe Legislature will vote on updates to parks tonight | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Monroe County legislators say it's the issue that has caused their e-mail inboxes to flood more than any other. County parks — those grassy places where residents go to cook out, hike, look at the birds and watch their kids play — are the subject of a vigorous debate among their most ardent fans. (May 12, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
• EPA Pumps Budget $$ into Water Infrastructure, Great Lakes WASHINGTON, DC, May 7, 2009 (ENS) - For the first time in eight years, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency budget has not been cut, it has been increased. Today, EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson released the agency's $10.5 billion budget blueprint for fiscal year 2010, which she said, "takes significant strides to ensure that our air, land, and water are safe and clean." (May 7, 09) Environment News Service
• Ethanol Industry’s 15% Solution Raises Concerns - NYTimes.com The Environmental Protection Agency is preparing to make an important and far-reaching decision this year that will affect more than 500 million gasoline engines powering everything from large pickups to family cars to lawn mowers: whether to grant the ethanol industry’s request to raise the maximum amount of ethanol that can be added to gasoline. (May 8, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia
• 05/08/2009: EPA Announces $400,000 for Brownfields Projects in New York $200,000 to cleanup sites with hazardous substances EPA has selected the City of Rochester for a brownfields cleanup grant. Hazardous substances grant funds will be used to clean up the 3.9-acre Orchard Whitney site at 354 Whitney Street and 415 Orchard Street. The site has been used for various commercial and industrial purposes since the early 1900s, including tool and die shops, plastics manufacturing, and metal finishing. Site soil and groundwater are contaminated with volatile and semi-volatile organic compounds and heavy metals. Grant funds also will be used to support community outreach and enforce institutional controls. (May 8, 09) U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases
• EPA Granting Rochester $200,000 Two cities in New York state will share $400,000 in federal money to clean up the environment. The EPA said Friday Rochester and Glen Falls will each receive $200,000 in brownfields grants to address contamination at old industrial sites. (May 9, 09) RochesterHomePage
• Naples hears from windmill supporter-turned -opponent - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Naples, N.Y. — As the town of Naples continues to push for increased setbacks on wind towers planned near the Prattsburgh town line, Supervisor Frank Duserick continues to seek input from those who’ve had up-close experience with the turbines. (May 9, 09) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow
• EPA elaborates -- a little -- on Great Lakes cleanup plans - OPEN: Ohio politics news, insider views and analysis from The Plain Dealer - cleveland.com WASHINGTON — EPA Administrator Lisa Jackson talked with reporters this afternoon about her agency's 2010 budget plans, and she mentioned the $475 million for Great Lakes cleanup and restoration. (May 7, 09) Cleveland OH Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - cleveland.com
• Rochester Participates in Landmark Children's Study - URMC Press Room Families in the Rochester area will be able to take part in the nation’s largest study of the health and well-being of children from birth to age 21, through a multimillion federal grant awarded to the University of Rochester Medical Center. May 7, 09) University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester NY
• GoErie.com: Opponents of proposed tires-to-energy plant stage protest (May 2, 09) GoErie.com
• Cherry growers, deciphering climate models, find uncertainty reigns — The Daily Climate In the glacier-carved hillsides of northwest Michigan where half of America's tart cherries grow, buds that look like half-burst popcorn will erupt any day into brilliant white blossoms. But in that six-county area flanking Lake Michigan, climate change is already in full bloom. (May 6, 09) The Daily Climate
• Revitalizing Penfield’s waterfront - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Penfield, N.Y. — In 2008, the towns of Penfield, Webster and Irondequoit, jointly received a $60,000 grant to update the waterfront revitalization plan of each community, including Irondequoit Bay. (May 7, 09 Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow
• Ohio companies, Ohio Department of Development promote state at American Wind Energy Association convention - Cleveland.com Chicago- The price of putting Ohio at the forefront of the exploding wind-energy industry is thousands of dollars and a lot of persuasion. That was the state's goal this week at the largest U.S. wind conference ever held, the American Wind Energy Association convention. (May 7, 09) Cleveland OH Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - cleveland.com
• Swine Flu Likely to Return to U.S. Next Winter  - Experts can't predict whether it will be more virulent or not Many experts are predicting that the current outbreak of swine flu, much like the regular seasonal flu, will subside during the summer months and reappear in the fall. That return could come with a vengeance, or not. (May 6, 09) HealthDay
• Trees to be Replaced - 13WHAM.com (Brighton, N.Y.) – The 15 trees cut down by vandals at Brighton High School last week will be replaced on Friday. (May 6,09) Home - 13WHAM.com
• EPA Lays out a Plan for the Nation’s Increase in Renewable fuels Washington, D.C. – May 5, 2009) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing its strategy for increasing the supply of renewable fuels, poised to reach 36 billion gallons by 2022, as mandated by the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. (May 5, 09) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
• Irondequoit pledges to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2015 | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle ALBANY — Irondequoit is one of 31 municipalities throughout New York state that has been recognized for efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2015. (May 6, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
• GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON SIGNS EXECUTIVE ORDER TO PHASE OUT THE STATE’S PURCHASE OF BOTTLED WATER Executive Order Will Improve Environment and Save Taxpayer Dollars New York Becomes Second State in the Country to Eliminate Purchase and Use of Bottled Water | Governor David A. Paterson today signed an Executive Order to phase out New York State’s purchase and use of bottled water at State agency facilities. This announcement, made by the Governor at “Earth Day Lobby Day” in Albany, marks another important step New York State is taking to improve the environment while simultaneously saving taxpayer dollars. Today’s actions make New York the second state in the country to eliminate the purchase and use of bottled water. (May 5, 09) Press Releases
• Paterson Orders Agencies to Switch From Bottled Water to Tap - NYTimes.com Citing financial and environmental reasons, Gov. David A. Paterson signed an executive order on Tuesday directing state agencies to phase out the purchase and use of bottled water at government workplaces. (May 5, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia
• Habitats are ‘tern’ for the better : Home: The Buffalo News A year ago, the common tern scored an upset of Tweety-versus-Sylvester proportions by torpedoing plans for a new 567-foot-high companion to the Peace Bridge. (May 3, 09) The Buffalo News
• More bees staying alive, but die-offs aren't over yet - recordonline.com - The Times Herald Record NEW PALTZ — The mysterious bee colony collapses have not impacted every beekeeper in the same way. "We had one of the largest die-offs this winter, but I had one of my best years," said Chris Harp, a beekeeper on Plains Road, who said the plight of the bees has dramatically increased his business, as well as the number of students coming to his farm to learn about beekeeping.  (May 4, 09) recordonline.com - Times Herald-Record - recordonline.com
• 4/27/2009~U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Announces 91 Projects in Northeast Region Under President's Economic Recovery Plan Hadley, Mass.  – From northern New England south to Virginia,the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will undertake 91 construction, energy efficiency, habitat restoration and other improvement projects at national wildlife refuges, fish hatcheries and other public and private lands to create jobs and ensure our nation’s fish and wildlife resources, treasured landscapes, and rich heritage are conserved for future generations, Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar announced today.   These projects total approximately $34.7 million for improvements within the Northeast. (April 27, 09) Northeast Region, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
• Monroe County H1N1 Influenza Update | Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks and the County Department of Public Health are closely monitoring the current outbreak of H1N1 Influenza or "Swine Flu." MyMonroe. Opening Up Government. | Monroe County, NY
• Our Green Thumbs on Display in Corn Hill Neighborhood Rochester may be the Flower City, but it's also a Tree City, and we're doing our part to keep it that way. (May 4, 09) RochesterHomePage
• GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES NEW YORK’S WADSWORTH LABORATORIES’ H1N1 TESTING VALIDATED BY CDC  No New Confirmed H1N1 Cases Reported | Today Outside New York Governor David A. Paterson announced today that the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has granted New York State independent testing status for the H1N1 virus (swine flu), validating the testing conducted by the Department of Health’s (DOH) Wadsworth Laboratories since April 28. With CDC validation, all cases of H1N1 tested by DOH’s Wadsworth Laboratories previously reported as “probable” are now confirmed. Press Releases
• WXXI: Monroe County Swine Flu Case Confirmed (2009-05-04) There are now 90 confirmed cases of the new H1N1 swine flu in New York State - and one of them is in Monroe County.  (May 5, 09) http://wxxi.org/
• Batavia Downs to install solar panels | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle (May 4, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
• Rochester man finds living green makes life better for all | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle At the age of 7, Peter Turkow worked with his father on his first green project, a home. What began as a hobby for Turkow led to a lifelong passion for green building, culminating in the co-founding of Rochester Green Living, a nonprofit organization that hosts workshops to educate people in the the city about topics such as green-collar jobs, growing produce and green building. (May 3, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York
• Class studies climate's impact on lake | burlingtonfreepress.com | The Burlington Free Press As the New England climate warms, Lake Champlain is likely to become richer in phosphorus and more susceptible to noxious blue-green algae blooms. Mass die-offs of alewives may occur more frequently, while potentially toxic mercury content may rise in food fish. (May 3, 09) http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/
• International Joint Commission: l 2009 Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement Biennial Meeting The IJC's next Biennial Meeting will take place on October 7-8, 2009, at the St. Clair Centre for the Arts in Windsor, Ontario. The IJC holds a Biennial Meeting every two years to hear from scientists and the public about issues relating to the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement, and to assist the Commission with preparing its Biennial Report on the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement. (May 2, 09)  International Joint Commission
• Obama's Great Lakes plan likely to be spelled out next week - OPEN: Ohio politics news, insider views and analysis from The Plain Dealer - cleveland.com WASHINGTON -- Millions of people who live near the Great Lakes will soon learn whether President Barack Obama and Congress are committed to spending billions on restoring the lakes to a thriving ecosystem, with economic benefits to cities like Cleveland. (April 30, 09) Cleveland OH Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - cleveland.com
• DEC'S "Green" Computer Program Is Honored by EPA - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Receives Recognition for Reducing the Environmental Impacts of Computer Purchasing The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) was honored by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for implementing a "green" purchasing program that has helped reduce the environmental impacts of use and disposal of computer equipment. DEC staff accepted an EPA Region 2 Environmental Quality Award for their work as part of the State Electronics Challenge. ( May 1, 09) Press Releases - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation
• New York Announces Initiative to Keep Canal Waters Clean - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Push for "No Discharge" Designation Comes as State Canal System Opens for 184th Consecutive Navigation Season On the annual opening day of the New York State Canal System, New York officials announced that they will seek to safeguard water quality and protect recreation by calling for the entire 524-mile system to become a federally designated "No Discharge Zone." ( May 1, 09) Press Releases - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation
• Turkey season opens today - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Ontario County, N.Y. — Speaking of hunting, turkey season opens today in Ontario, Wayne and Yates counties, and the rest of upstate New York for that matter. (May 2, 09)- Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow
• How many deer do you want? - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Ontario County, N.Y. — Calling all hunters, farmers, conservationists, motorists, business owners — anyone with a stake in the deer population: The state Department of Environmental Conservation seeks your opinion as it determines the number of hunting permits it will issue next fall for antlerless deer. (May 2, 09)- Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow