03/31/00 -- Announcing the formation of a new group. The Seneca Park Alliance (SPA), a new group of organizations and individuals concerned about the potential destruction of Seneca Park More to come on the mission of this group, but in the meantime, check out what will go asunder under the new Seneca Park expansion. See several photographs of what might be gone if the new zoo expansion goes through.
03/30/01 -- Here's a story that should not have happened. When you think of the Brownfields stories cropping up in our area, this news is chilling: Superfund Out Of Money State stalemate to bring many toxic cleanups to a halt. Sunday, the cleanups stop. With the State Legislature still stalemated by a years-old debate over easing rules for coping with contaminated soil and groundwater, New York State this weekend will run out of money to oversee the cleanup of almost 800 toxic sites across the state, including more than 100 on Long Island and in Queens. (Friday, March 30, 2001) Newsday.com
03/30/01 -- Important hazardous waste info: County Partners with Towns to Accept Household Hazardous Waste PDF Link: partner with towns to collect waste.pdf -(Friday, March 30, 2001) - from Jack Doyle, Monroe County Executive. "Monroe County Executive Jack Doyle today announced that the county's Department of Environmental Services, along with the towns of Penfield and Webster, will co-host a regional Household Hazardous Waster (HHW) collection at the Webster Highway Garage, 1005 Picture Parkway, on Saturday, April 21 2001 from 8:00 a. m. to 1:00 p.m. All drop-offs are by appointment only. To schedule an appointment for this Household Hazardous Waste Collectio, Penfield residents should call the Penfield Highway Department at 340-8665. Webster residents should cal the Webster Highway Garage at 872-1443. All residents can use the county's permanent house Hazardous Waste Facility at 444. E. Henrietta Road. To Schedule an appointment, call 760-7600 and select option 3.
03/30/01 -- Important message if you care about the Seneca Park Zoo expansion: To all persons concerned about the proposed expansion of the zoo into Seneca Park: The Seneca Park Alliance (SPA), a new group of organizations and individuals concerned about the potential destruction of Seneca Park will hold a news conference to announce the formation of the Alliance at 10:00AM on Saturday, March 31st in Seneca Park's lower park. Please help rally the troops so we get a good turnout. For those of you with contacts in running and bicycling clubs, environmental groups, etc. please spread the word. We will use plastic tape and stakes to delineate the proposed zoo expansion. The news media are expected to attend. Mounted photos of the park in Fall, and some smaller historic photos will be displayed.
03/29/01 -- They're back: Check out live cam of falcons at Kodak: Peregrine Falcons at Kodak.com
03/28//01 -- I'm passing this message on from The Town Crier on the Web:
Wayne County Cooperative Extension Center's 4-H Program still has bluebird
kits available. Kits are available for a cost of $6 and $8 from 9 am to
4 pm Monday through Friday at Cornell Cooperative Extension in Newark.
Purchasing these bluebird kits supports the 4-H Natural Resource
Program. Call (315) 331-8415 for more information.
03/28/01 -- There are only a few days left to act on this very important environmental issue for Rochester, New York. You can add your voice to people who determine how we affect urban sprawl and the air quality in our community. Please take a moment and write a letter and ask that our roads be more friendly to bike and pedestrians. Don't miss this opportunity to affect change in our area: Encourage the use of bikes and walking in our city! The Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) update deals the "timing and funding" for highway, bridge, public transit, bicycle, and pedestrian projects in a nine-county region, including Monroe County. The Genesee Transportation Council, (go to the bottom left and click on Proposed TIP Update for Public Review) the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the Genesee-Finger Lakes region, has made the Proposed 2001-2006 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Update available for a 30-day public review (February 28, 2001 through March 30, 2001) In conjunction with the 30-day public review period, three public meetings are scheduled to review and solicit public input on the Proposed TIP Update: Oral and written comments will be accepted at the public meetings. Written comments may also be submitted to: GTC Or e-mail comments to: tipcomment@gtcmpo.org, 65 West Broad Street, Suite 101, Rochester, NY 14608
03/28/01 -- Important online information about environmental health of Conesus Lake: Draft "State of Conesus Lake: Watershed Characterization Report" This report was prepared for the New York Department of State with funds provided under Title 11 of the Environmental Protection Fund.
03/27/01 -- These important document are online now: State Environmental Quality Review. Notice of Completion of Draft EIS and Notice of SEQR Hearing. *Monroe County's Seneca Park Zoo Development Plan DEIS and Seneca Park Zoo Report of the DEIS -from Monroe County Parks. Comments on the Draft EIS are requested and will be accepted by the contact person until 5:00 pm, April 20, 2001. A public hearing on the Draft EIS will be held on Thursday, April 5, at 7:00 pm, in the Eisenhart Auditorium at the Rochester Museum and Science Center. The Rochester Museum and Science Center is located at 657 East Avenue, Rochester, New York.
03/2701 -- Here's a Rochester program that shows how our city shines: Check out Tuesday Nature Nights. Each Tuesday evening from June 5 to Sept. 4, at 6:15 pm we've planned an activity which will focus on the beauty of our natural surroundings. Join us on bike, on foot or in a canoe as we explore nature in our neighborhoods. Guided Bike Rides 6:15 pm, Tues., June 5, June 19, July 3, July 17, July 31, August 14, August 28 Join us for a casual bike ride (level terrain, under 10 miles) starting in Genesee Valley Park and going along the Genesee Riverway Trail or Canal Trail. Meet in the Genesee Valley Pool parking lot, 131 Elmwood Ave. Helmets Required. No registration required. 428-6770 "Trees in Our Neighborhoods" Walks. Join us for a leisurely stroll through some of the City's areas that are rich in both historical and horticultural heritage.
03/27/01 -- This should be a very well-attended event: A Community Seminar by Dr. Theo Colborn -World Wildlife Fund, Wildlife and Contaminants Program, Washington, DC. "Our Stolen Future" An Account of how a wide range of man-made chemicals disrupt our hormone systems. Monday, April 23rd, 7 PM, Hoyt Hall University of Rochester River Campus. Light refreshments will be served. This event is sponsored by the Outreach program of the University of Rochester Environmental Health Sciences Center.
03/27/01 -- Here's an important event to attend. The Tenth Annual Lyon Daughters Lecture in Bioethics presents: Health Care: At What Environmental Cost? A New Frontier in Bioethics. Andrew L. Jameton, PHD, philosopher/Professor of Preventive and Societal medicine University of Nebraska Medical Center will give his lecture on Friday evening, April 27th, at 8PM at the Rochester Academy of Medicine, 1441 East Avenue, Rochester, NY 14610. The Lecture is free and open to the public. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. This event will be Signed for the hearing impaired.
03/27/01 -- I want to thank the The Rochester Regional Library Council for allowing me to do a PowerPoint presentation of RochesterEnvironment.com. Their, they are librarians) input has helped me better design this site for those looking for information. The Rochester Regional Library Council is a multi-type library network serving libraries and library systems in the five-county Rochester region - Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Wayne and Wyoming counties.
03/21/01 -- Here's an interesting link for those who think we can cut down on vehicles: CAT (The Coalition for Alternative Transportation) is an educational charity working to improve mobility. Better walking, bicycling and transit improve the economy and our quality of life. Better transportation choices can reduce congestion, pollution and automobile crashes, too. Curbing our ever growing use of the automobile can fight problems such as suburban sprawl, obesity and high medical costs. CAT helps us enjoy our car free options!
03/21/01 -- Another Major setback to our environment by the Bush Administration: How Much Arsenic Is in Your Water? The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) said this week that it plans to withdraw new standards regulating arsenic in drinking water. --from Environmental Defense.
03/21/01 --I'm forwarding this important information online from the DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE about the Seneca Park Zoo expansion: Beginning Saturday, the draft environmental statement will be on the county Web site, www.co.monroe.ny.us.
03/20/01 -- Here's something you can do for the environment today: Tell Great Lakes Governors to Protect Critical Water Resources. The Great Lakes are the heart and soul of the upper Midwest. They provide twenty percent of the fresh surface water on the planet. They provide drinking water for many of our cities, bring tourist dollars to our communities, supply recreational opportunities for our families and support a diverse ecosystem of fish and wildlife. But our lakes are being threatened by increased demands for water throughout our region and now around the country. --from National Wildlife Federation.
03/18/01 -- Concerned about what's happening with pollution in our State. You can help clean up the Hudson River by going this action page from Clearwater Action: Use this page to tell the EPA that it's time to clean up the Hudson River! Background. In December 2000 the Environmental Protection Agency released their Proposed Plan for the Hudson River Superfund Site as part of their Reassessment of PCBs in the Hudson. This report details five alternatives for dealing with PCBs in the Upper Hudson, ranging from "No Action" (Alternative 1) to full removal of PCBs from identified hotspots and source control in the vicinity of General Electric's Hudson Falls plant (Alternative 5).
03/16/01 -- With the outbreak of stories on Brownfields and pollution in our community, find out the consequences of pollution: In a program called TOXINS IN THE HOME AND ENVIRONMENT CANCER SURVIVOR ANN MARIE DONACA TO SPEAK AT ST. MARY'S HOSPITAL AUDITORIUM, SATURDAY MARCH 24TH - AT 4:00 PM, TICKETS; $7.00, PRE-REGISTER AT: 1-877-466-4396
03/16/01 -- What does George W. Bush's reversal on carbon dioxide in energy production mean? The Great Reversal.
This just in: "Choices for Sustainable Living" Informational meeting for anyone interested in being part of an 8-week discussion course developed by the Northwest Earth Institute, a non-profit earth-centered educational organization. The course covers sustainable food systems, technologies, communities, buying habits, and more. Meeting is March 25th, 2-3 PM, at the Winton Branch Library, 611 Winton Rd. N. For more information, call or e-mail Mary Gleason @ 624-3641 or GVELP@yahoo.com. Sponsored by Genesee Valley Earth Literacy Partners.
Concerned about this story? Bush Won't Regulate Carbon Dioxide WASHINGTON (AP) - President Bush said Wednesday the nation's energy problems rather than pressure from lobbyists prompted his change of heart away from regulating carbon dioxide emissions from coal-burning power plants. You can do something about it here: Bush Watch.
It's not too late to tell the EPA and our governor that
the Hudson River PCB's are intolerable. In just a moment, you can send
a message to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Christine Todd
Whitman: Tell the EPA to insist GE pay to remove its toxic mess from the
Hudson River. For 30 years ending in 1977, two General Electric plants
dumped an estimated 1.3 million pounds of highly toxic polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCBs) into the Hudson River, all but destroying the Hudson’s
once-thriving commercial fishing industry and posing a significant health
threat to wildlife and fishermen who depend on the river for food. Every
year, some 500 pounds of PCBs from contaminated areas wash downstream and
are ingested by fish, wildlife, and people who eat fish from the river. --
From Natural Resources Defense Council.
This just in: Worth Reading... This weeks City Newspaper has a very good article on elephants, their requirements and how zoos deal with those requirements, and, another article about Seneca Park and the Proposed Zoo expansion plan.
Three events that
I'm passing on from my friends at the Common Good Planning Center, 34 Meigs
Street
Rochester, NY 14607, (716) 442-2730 Fax: (800)-858-8245, www.ggw.org/commongood
1. Promoting Stewardship of Private Lands New York in the Next Federal Farm Bill
Tuesday, March 13, 5:30 - 8:30 at Monroe Community College. The next Farm Bill that goes before the US Congress provides a rare chance
to reward private landowners who take steps to protect our water supplies
and wildlife, help farmers and ranchers curb sprawl, and aid struggling family farmers. As much as $100 billion is at stake. In recent
years, only 10 percent of federal agriculture spending has been directed to conservation, and program structures are not favorable to New York.
For example, in 1999 some states received as much as 27 cents in federal support for each dollar generated from agriculture, while New York farmers
received only 3 cents on the dollar. A conservation oriented farm
program would help most farmers as well as the environment. Next Tuesday, March 13 there will be a meeting at Monroe Community College
from 5:30 - 8:30 to develop strategy to reform federal agricultural policies to promote environmental protection and food safety and help
family farmers and rural communities survive and thrive. The meeting
is sponsored by Environmental Defense, the Audubon Society, Citizen's Campaign
for the Environment, NY League of Conservation Voters, Scenic Hudson, local
Sierra Clubs and others. The meeting will be held in Building 12,
Room129,(go in main entrance and turn left). Use Parking Lot F. For
further information contact Suzy Friedman at 202-387-3500 or
sfriedman@environmentaldefense.org.
2. Third Annual Smart Growth Conference Monday April 23, Empire State Plaza, Albany, New York.
Lieutenant Governor Mary O. Donohue and Secretary of State Alexander F. Treadwell are co-chairing this year's Smart Growth Conference.
Featured speakers include Governor George E. Pataki and Anton Nelessen, a leader in
visioning, physical planning and urban design. Cost is $75 if
registered before April 13. For a complete listing of sponsors, agenda, speakers,
workshop topics, location and lodging information go to:
http://ny.audubon.org/smart.html.
As a co-sponsor of the conference, the Common Good Planning Center will
attempt to coordinate carpooling from the greater Rochester area.
Please contact us if you are going and would like to share a ride.
3. The Congress for the New Urbanism will meet in New York City June 7 - 10 to explore "From Neighborhood to Region" at its 9th annual
Congress. The Common Good Planning Center is putting together a delegation of 10 people
to attend. If you are interested, please contact us.
03/08/01 -- Brownfields are news here in the Rochester area. With the possible pollution in Brockport and other areas around Rochester recently, this problem, where industry leaves its chemical waste behind for other to clean up, is not going to go away. And now with the Superfund in New York State still undecided, why can't we come up with a comprehensive policy to solve this long-term problem?
03/08/01 -- There seems to be no limit to the way you can help our environment online, which includes the plants and animals we share the planet with. (Duets) Contest helps find homes for cats and dogs You and your pet can help find homes for millions of other dogs and cats, all you need to do is carry a tune. Auditions are underway for the first ever best pet and owner duet. from 10NBC/WHEC TV-10
03/08/01 -- I'm passing on this important public message from 10NBC/WHEC TV-10 : Blood donations needed This week’s snowstorm across New York State has hit blood banks hard. American Red Cross The Greater Rochester Chapter.
03/08/01 -- From the page version of the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle, there are going to be baby eagles born soon at the Iroquois National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) The refuge serves as a nesting, feeding, resting and staging areas for migratory waterfowl. The varied habitats support approximately 266 species of birds, 42 species of mammals, plus reptiles, fish, amphibians and insects. Bald eagles have maintained an active nest on the refuge since 1986.
03/08/01 -- While Scanning the net for environmental news (which I do daily) I came across Green Solitaire (My general environmental site) posted on a major Internet news site: The Environmental News Service. It is listed First in their Environmental Web sites and says: Green Solitaire, Environmentalism on the Internet made easy. - Designed especially to get ordinary people involved in environmentalism by providing a complete Internet resource. It's always gratifying to get noticed. While I'm on the Subject of Green Solitaire I should mention that the most active site on Green Solitaire is Bush Watch. Here I monitor President George W. Bush's actions and inactions on our environment. On Bush Watch. you can find out the latest news on what our president is doing for or against our environment and do something about it.
03/7/01 -- And now for something totally different: What if we could monitor development and construction in our area right from our Internet connections. This could be a great boon for the public if we could watch all that goes on with our environment from the Internet: Constructing the new O’Rorke Bridge The $84 million project is being constructed utilizing federal money being administered by Monroe County Department of Transportation through a close collaboration with the New York State Department of Transportation.
03/06/01 -- Be sure to mark your calendar for this very popular event: THIRD ANNUAL ENVIRONMENTAL FORUM -- Sponsored by the Rochester Regional Group of the Sierra Club and co-sponsored by the Choices and the Environment Task Force of the First Unitarian Church. Biotechnology: An Organic Farmer's Perspective Plus, a chance to meet many of our Rochester-area environmentalists. You can also post your questions about food and biotechnology at this site. THIRD ANNUAL ENVIRONMENTAL April 5th, 6:30 pm, 1st Unitarian Church, 220 So. Winton Rd.
03/05/01 -- Potentially, this could be an issue in our
area: Diesel
school buses threaten kids' health
A new NRDC study found that excess
exhaust levels on school buses were 23 to 46 times higher than levels
considered to be a significant cancer risk according to EPA guidelines.
--from Natural Resources Defense Council
03/04/01 -- Get involved in development in our community. Major changes, over eighty of them, are coming to our area and you can influence them: 2001-2006 TIP Update The Genesee Transportation Council, the Metropolitan Planning Organization for the Genesee-Finger Lakes region, has made the Proposed 2001-2006 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) Update available for a 30-day public review (February 28, 2001 through March 30, 2001)
03/02/01 -- Recently, I attended a meeting of the GENESEE VALLEY AUDUBON SOCIETY and watched a very interesting program on Operation Migration. We were treated with a very comprehensive talk and slide show on the intricacies involved in saving the Sandhill Crane by helping them learn to migrate. If you are interested in learning about the importance of birds and our environment, think of joining the GENESEE VALLEY AUDUBON SOCIETY and attending their monthly meetings. Each month they meet at the beautiful Eastman Dental Center Auditorium - 625 Elmwood Avenue - Rochester and present a program on birding.
03/02/01 -- This just in: Dear Friend: Health-Track
released its latest project yesterday,
a new on-line mapping system
which allows for easy access to combined data on mortality rates for cancers
known or suspected to have environmental causes and toxic chemical releases
of known or probable carcinogens. You can find the maps at http://health-track.org/.
Also, you can link to a story from yesterday's USA Today about the
release of the cancer maps at
http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2001-02-26-hotspots.htm.
We hope you find the cancer maps interesting and useful. Sincerely, Jim
O'Hara, Executive Director, Health-Track
03/02/01 -- Mayor Johnson's decision to run a third term for mayor of Rochester is thankful news here. Our mayor has become a major proponent of wise development and against urban sprawl. Urban sprawl is one of the most devastating environmental problems (not to mention social and economic) because intemperate growth of our cities into plant and animal natural habitats makes it more difficult for us to sustain our environment. Urban sprawl increases habitat destruction and pollution. Having as our mayor such a prominent figure on this important issue means not only that our own area benefits greatly with his anti-sprawl policies, but that he becomes a nationwide spokesperson for against the waste and disruptive consequences of sprawl. Actually, we have much to be grateful for in our environmentally friendly representatives. Our NYS Attorney General Eliot Spitzer, Congresswoman Louise Slaughter, New York State governor, George Pataki, and Senator Schumer have all shown that they understand our environmental concerns here and have shown wise leadership on helping our Rochester-area stay environmentally healthy. Check out all their web sites and find out what they've done to help our community and drop them a note mentioning that it matters that they stay on top of our Rochester Issues.
03/01/01- Think that your online actions don't make
a difference? Think again. This just in from Jay Greenberg
<conservationist@earthlink.net>
Rochester, NY
ARCTIC REFUGE DEFENDERS CLOG WHITE HOUSE EMAIL SYSTEM
WASHINGTON, DC, February 28, 2001 (ENS) - The White House email system
has
been overwhelmed by people petitioning President George W. Bush to reverse
his
position on allowing oil companies to drill in the Arctic National Wildlife
Refuge.
Thousands of emails have been returned to their senders, says
conservation
group Defenders of Wildlife, which has sponsored the Internet petition drive
urging
Bush to protect the refuge.
In the first month of Defenders' electronic petition, located at
http://www.SaveArcticRefuge.org, supporters sent more than 650,000 emails to
President Bush and Congress.
Because its computers cannot handle the volume, the White House has
returned
thousands of emails. Computer system administrators at Defenders have
concluded that an overwhelmed email system at the White House is to blame.
An administrator sent a letter to the White House pointing out the
problem, but
there has been no response.
"This phenomenal response shows that people are overwhelmingly
against
exploitation of 'America's Serengeti,'" Defenders president Rodger
Schlickeisen
said. "It's quickly mushrooming into the largest Internet petition
campaign ever."
An energy policy bill introduced in the Senate on Monday would open the
refuge's
coastal plain to oil and gas exploration. Last night, Bush proposed a
federal
budget that also supports opening the refuge to drilling.
"BP Amoco and other multinational oil giants would destroy the
habitat with its rich
diversity of wildlife - including caribou, polar bears, wolves, muskoxen and
millions
of migratory birds - all for a supply of oil that would only last 180
days,"
Schlickeisen said. "And we wouldn't see a drop of that oil for 10
years. Obviously,
that won't solve our energy problems."
A new survey released today by The Wilderness Society shows that 52
percent of
Americans polled oppose opening the refuge, while just 22 percent
"strongly
support" the proposal.
--
02/28/01 -- Today, stories about our water quality: Plan to improve water quality to be released today Update: Monroe County Executive Jack Doyle will hold a press conference Wednesday to announce an initiative for improving water quality education and helping citizens to prevent water pollution in their homes and lawns. He will release results of the 2000 Water Quality Opinion Survey (February 28, 2001) -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE County Forms Water Collaborative Resources joined to improve water quality education PDF Link: Water Education Collaborative.pdf -- (February 28, 2001) Jack Doyle, Monroe County Executive -- Remember, you can get the report here: What do Monroe County residents think about their drinking water? You can obtain a copy of the Water Quality Survey report by calling the Monroe County Health Department at 274-8441.
02/27/01 -- This law was not passed in Monroe County. Pesticide companies can be trusted in our county, I guess. Spraying law set to start Albany County requires telling about pesticides ALBANY - Albany County joined three other New York counties Monday when its executive signed controversial pesticide notification legislation into law. Come this Thursday, when the law goes into effect, commercial pesticide applicators will have to tell their clients' neighbors 48 hours before spraying. Also homeowners who apply pesticides themselves will have to put up flags afterward and leave them up for 24 hours. (February 26, 2001) DailyGazette.com
02/27/01 -- Two stories today in the news about industry's possible pollution. That's why today's ruling by the US Supreme Court is so important to us. Clean-Air Standard Method Upheld WASHINGTON - The Supreme Court on Tuesday upheld the way the federal government sets clean-air standards, rejecting industry arguments that officials must balance compliance costs against the health benefits of cleaner air. (AP) For those who think that we can allow, as the Bush Administration says, industry to be their own watchdog for the environment, just haven't been looking at the news. Even in the Rochester area Brownfields are a problem and the fact that NYS Legislature has not passed a bill to clean up Brownfields does not a healthy environment make.
02/24/01 -- Want to help assess the health of our local environment? Frog Call Recording Project Do you enjoy listening to the sounds of a soft spring night? Do you know of a wetland that has a population of anurans (frogs and toads)? Would you like to help stem the tragic loss of amphibians?
02/24/01 -- Still haven't figure out what RochesterEnvironment.com is all about? Why not see me do a PowerPoint presentation of RochesterEnviornment.com at the Rochester Regional Library Council --Mar 26 "Rochester Environment on the Web" with Frank Regan. Monday Night at the Council Pizza Series. RRLC Training Center. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. -- You must register to attend.
02/23/01 -- Recently coyotes have been in our news and a while ago a local radio program (1370 AM) mentioned that there are between 15,000 and 20,000 coyotes in Wayne County. Well, what about coyotes? Get the facts about Coyotes in New York from the Department of Conservation. Coyotes in New York.
02/23/01 -- I'm
relaying this message from my friends over at
Common
Good Planning Center: 1. There was a major article on
sprawl in USA Today on 2/22/01. The article is viewable free on-line only
until the end of the business day on
2/23/01. This interesting article has 8 pieces so be sure to see it all when
you go to the link: http://www.usatoday.com/news/sprawl/main.htm.
If you miss the on-line viewing and want to see the article, contact the
Common Good Planning Center and we'll get a copy to you. 2. City Newspaper
has stared a new feature in their "Metro Ink" section called
"met Watch": an occasional look at reports of area developments
and their effect on suburban sprawl. INK awards a tree to actions that will
improve the region, a bulldozer to those that are harmful themselves or are
symptoms of harmful trends, and an alarm clock to those that warm of
trouble. Pick up a copy of City to check this out and let them know of
actions that merit a tree, a bulldozer or an alarm clock. 3. Rochester Mayor
William Johnson has produced a new slide show entitled Beyond Civil Rights
Law. The presentation looks at the race factor as related to sprawl and
urban disinvestments. The show can be accessed through the Common Good
Planning Center website, or go directly to the city website at http://www.ci.rochester.ny.us/apps/sprawlcr.nsf?opendatabase.
Common Good Planning Center, 34 Meigs Street, Rochester, NY 14607, (716)
442-2730 Fax: (800)-858-8245, www.ggw.org/commongood
02/23/01 -- I'm passing this event on. If
you have a garden, this program is a must: GardenScape
2001
Greater Rochester's 10th Annual Flower & Garden Show March 15 - 18, 2001
02/23/01 -- How
does Rochester, New York rate as a place to live? Find out: Best
places to live 2000
Read about our winning picks for Best Places to Live 2000 and search our
online database of cities to find your best place to live
02/23/01 -- If you are a parent and your child uses a school bus, listen to this story: School Buses from Living On Earth.
02/23/01 -- Important environmental concern for our
area: Clean
Air Now - Diesel exhaust may be
the most significant - and most under-addressed - public health threat in
urban America today. The main threats of diesel emissions to public
health can be put in three categories: soot or fine particle matter (PM),
nitrogen oxide (NOx) - a smog-forming
pollutant, and toxic compounds. Although they drive less than 6 percent of
our highway miles, diesel trucks
cause 25 percent of smog-forming emissions and over half of the soot from
all highway vehicles. The average
truck on the road today spews 22 grams of smog-forming pollution and nearly
one gram of soot every mile. Breathing
smog and diesel soot causes respiratory and heart disease, aggravates
asthma, and is linked to lung cancer. Late last year, the EPA finalized a
rule requiring cleaner engines and cleaner fuel for large diesel vehicles.
This rule requires that trucks and buses be 95% cleaner than those on the
road today and, to ensure cleaner-running trucks, that sulfur in diesel fuel
be reduced by 97%. This will remove some 110,000 tons of toxic soot from the
air each year and reduce as much smog-forming pollution as taking 67 million
cars off the road. The EPA estimates that the new rule would prevent 8,300
premature deaths, 360,000 asthma attacks, and 7,100 hospital admissions each
year. On the first day of George W. Bush's presidency, his Chief of Staff,
Andrew Card, issued a memorandum on the president's behalf calling for a
postponement of the effective date of this rule to allow for additional
review. The oil and trucking industries are taking
advantage of this regulatory freeze to push for a weakening or rollback of
this historic clean air rule. Click on the link below to go to a web site
where you can e-mail President Bush to let him know you support the diesel
rule and want it to be fully implemented. http://pirg.org/alerts/route.asp?id=130&id4=AN
02/22/01 -- Just got to pass this on: Annual pet telethon takes place March 3 We’re gearing up for the annual pet telethon that benefits the Humane Society and Lollypop Farm. It’s Saturday, March 3. If you adopted your pet from the humane society, send us a picture and tell us why you love your pet. We will show the pictures on AM Live the week of February 26th through March 2nd.Send your picture to: AM LIVE, NEWS TEN NBC, 191 East Avenue, Rochester, New York, 14604. --from 10NBC/WHEC TV-10
02/22/01 -- This just in from the Kandid Coalition: The Kodak Building 218 Incinerator Upgrade permit hearing Kandid Coalition (KC) and Citizens Environmental Coalition (CEC) participated in the Kodak Building 218 Incinerator Upgrade permit hearing before the DEC administrative law judge in August of 2000 and October 2000. The goal was to secure the maximum achievable control technology for Kodak's new pollution control system in order to improve the air quality for the Kodak community and the Rochester region for years to come.
02/22/10 -- It's not too late. Bulk water removal from Great Lakes. Proposed addition to the Great Lakes Charter that could prevent bulk water removal from the Great Lakes. The Council of Great Lakes Governors is accepting comments until Feb. 28. Send e-mail to cglg@cglg.org, faxes to (3120 407-0038 and mail to Annex 2001 Comments, Council of Great Lake Governors, 35 E. Wacker Drive, Suite 1850, Chicago, IL 60601. Read about the last public meeting on this topic: Guard lake water, officials told AMHERST, N.Y. (February 22, 2001) -- Protecting Great Lakes water from thirsty onlookers requires a much more aggressive stance than what is being proposed, Great Lakes advocates and residents told Great Lakes officials Wednesday night. The first of two public hearings in New York about a proposed change to an international agreement covering the Great Lakes brought resounding agreement among the more than 50 people who attended: Lawmakers must more aggressively protect one of the area's most important assets. (February 22, 2001) -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
02/21/01 -- Bird watching program looking for participants Some 65 million Americans call themselves birdwatchers. If you’ve ever thought about what it would be like now may be the time. A program geared toward bird watching is underway. Project Feederwatch Rochester Birding Association. (February 20, 2001) 10NBC/WHEC TV-10
02/21/01 -- Check out the NYS Attorney General's report Stop Backyard Burning
02/20/01 -- I've been on vacation. So, there was no RochesterEnvironment.com Newsletter last week. There will be on this weekend. While I was in Ottawa, Canada, their newspapers ran with the headline that Global Warming has been accepted by over four hundred scientists as a fact and there are going to major changes in store for the world.
02/14/01 -- Here's an issue that needs your immediate
attention: Unfortunately, President Bush has postponed
the effective date of the recent diesel rule requiring cleaner engines and
cleaner fuel for diesel vehicles to allow for additional review of the rule.
Click on the link below to go to a web site where you
can e-mail President Bush to let him know you support the diesel rule and
want it to be fully implemented.
http://pirg.org/alerts/route.asp?id=130&id4=AN
02/14/01 -- Check out this important site on Rochester's Lead Poisoning problem: Lead Free Rochester Home Page: Get a full report on the lead poisoning problem in Rochester.
02/14/01 -- Are they finally going to clean up the Genesee River? Well, I don't know how far $2, 500.00 is going to go on cleaning up one of the worst toxic polluted rivers in the US. COUNTY/CITY PLAN RIVER CLEANUP "Monroe County Executive Jack Doyle today announced that the county has received a grand to fund a cleanup of the Lower Genesee River's banks.. If the grant is accepted by the County Legislature, the county will work with the City of Rochester to Coordinate a September 2001 event."- PDF Link: riverbanks.pdf (February 14, 2001) Jack Doyle, Monroe County Executive
02/14/01 -- I've mentioned this important environmental warning several times and now the Attorney General of NYS has published a report on it. RURAL "BURN BARRELS" IDENTIFIED AS POLLUTION SOURCE State Brochure Urges Homeowners to Eliminate Garbage Burning and Find Alternative Ways to Dispose of Trash Attorney General Eliot Spitzer – in cooperation with the American Lung Association of New York State – today released an educational brochure urging homeowners to reduce the practice of burning household garbage and find alternative ways to dispose of refuse. (February 13, 2001) -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
02/14/01 -- This item is very important. Here's
where the public really makes a difference. Take a few moments out of
your day and contact the EPA on the Hudson River PCB issue. EPA
Extends Public Comment Period on Proposed Cleanup Plan EPA
has extended the public comment period on the Proposed Plan and supporting
documentation by 60 days. The extension brings the total comment
period to over 120 days. EPA's decision is now expected in August 2001.
Submissions of written comment should be postmarked by Tuesday, April 17,
2001, and sent to: Alison Hess/Doug Tomchuk, Hudson River PCBs Public
Comment, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 290 Broadway, 19th Floor
New York, NY 10007-1866, Comment will also be accepted by E-mail until
Tuesday, April 17, 2001 at: HudsonComment.Region2@epa.gov,
General
information on the Feasibility Study and Proposed Plan
02/14/01 -- I'm passing this on from True Food: If you
haven't already, make sure
Administrator Whitman
and the EPA know how you feel about approving StarLink corn: http://truefoodnow.org/bin/takeaction.pl?action_id=26
02/14/01 -- I'm passing this Valentine message from
Earthjustice: TAKE
ACTION - SEND A VALENTINE FOR ENDANGERED SPECIES Endangered
species need your love! More than 1,200 species including bears,
manatees, eagles, and butterflies are on the endangered and threatened list.
Tell your Senators that you care, and want their
commitment to increase protection of our nation's endangered wildlife, by
sending them a valentine.
02/13/01 -- Pesticide event coming up: On Feb. 24, Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County, along with several local conservation groups, will present “Pesticide use and your lawn, your lake, your health,” a symposium at Canandaigua Inn on the Lake. The symposium will take place from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 24 at the Canandaigua Inn on the Lake, 770 South Main St., Canandaigua. The deadline to register for the event, which costs $15 per person, is Feb. 16. Refreshments will be provided. For more information or to register, call (716) 394-3977, ext. 38. Cornell Cooperative Extension of Ontario County-- from
02/13/01 -- I've come across this very interesting and useful site about wood-burning stoves and the dangers of particulate matter to children. Check this out if you have a wood stove or are considering buying one: Burning Issues provides public education about the health hazards of exposure to wood smoke. Smoke from residential burning of wood, wood burning restaurants and outdoor burning of wood, crops and debris is permeating our neighborhoods, resulting in high ground level concentrations of toxic air pollution.
02/13/01 -- I am glad to see that our Monroe County officials are listening to the people's concerns about expanding the Seneca Park Zoo at the expense of Seneca Park. Those who have taken the time to voice their concerns on this issue should are to be congratulated and relieved that their actions count. Monroe expected to cut back zoo plan - The proposal to triple the size of the Seneca Park Zoo to 36 acres is likely to be revised so the expansion is less sweeping, the Republican leader of the Monroe County Legislature said Monday. (February 13, 2001) -DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
02/10/01 -- Here is a copy of the letter I sent to about my environmental concerns about the fast-ferry project at Charlotte Harbor. You have until Feb. 22: Mail your environmental concerns and comments on redeveloping the port at Charlotte to Sandra Pinkney, Room 300-B, City Hall, 30 Church St.
02/10/01 -- I must commend Monroe County for this important project. Tracking and creating a database of our biodiversity is one of the most important messages that I am trying to get across to the public. Without this kind of information we have no idea how our human footprints are affecting our environment. County Documents Plant Species in Highland and Durand-Eastman Parks PDF Link: Botanical Mapping.pdf (February 10, 2001) Jack Doyle, Monroe County Executive
02/10/01 -- Public message from: Animal Abuse Rochester, NY - Humane Society investigators are looking for the person who dragged and seriously injured a dog. (February 10, 2001) RochesterToday News If you can help police solve this crime, call Crimestoppers at 423-9300. You could receive a cash reward if your information leads to an arrest.
02/09/01 -- Bulk water removal from Great Lakes. Proposed addition to the Great Lakes Charter that could prevent bulk water removal from the Great Lakes. The Council of Great Lakes Governors is accepting comments until Feb. 28. Send e-mail to cglg@cglg.org, faxes to (3120 407-0038 and mail to Annex 2001 Comments, Council of Great Lake Governors, 35 E. Wacker Drive, Suite 1850, Chicago, IL 60601.
02/08/01 -- The Common Good Planning Center has a new forum for dialogue on the issues of important to our region. Visit the Common Good Planning Center's Weigh In. to share your views, ideas, opinions, and to see what other's are saying.
2/07/01 -- Important. Quality
Communities Interagency Task Force The long
awaited report from the Governor's Quality Communities Interagency Task
Force commissioned last January, was submitted to the Governor yesterday.
The 120+ page report can be viewed/printed at www.state.ny.us/governor/ltgov/index.html
Much discussion of sustainable communities, farm preservation, open space,
downtown revitalization, caution with infrastructure expansion. Emphasis on
local decision making, enhanced by incentives, not state mandates. Also
extensive discussion on fiber optics, multi-modal mass transit. Check it
out.
2/07/01 -- Got a business? Care about the environment? Here's something from the NYS DEC: The Greening of New York's Buildings. New York has taken the lead in promoting the construction/reconstruction of commercial and residential buildings through the creation of a "green building" tax credit. On May 15, Governor George E. Pataki, with the strong support of the real estate, environmental, business and labor communities, signed into law a measure intended to encourage building owners and developers to design, construct and operate buildings that are more in harmony with the environment. Green buildings are more earth-friendly by virtue of greater energy efficiency, cleaner air, utilization of recycled materials, and incorporation of renewable and energy efficient power generation into their designs. They also minimize environmental impact and maximize the preservation of open space.
2/07/01 -- Check
your calendars: Thursday, February 15, 2001
ADVERTISING
AND THE END OF CIVILIZATION, Sponsored by the Rochester Regional Group
of the Sierra Club, (716) 420-4363 or write us at Sierra Club, PO Box 39516,
Rochester, N.Y. 14604.
Thursday, February 15, 2001, at 7 PM, Third Presbyterian Church, East Ave.
at Meigs, Rochester
2/07/01 -- Significant by its omission, no one spoke out for the environment last night in one of the largest development project in our area. "There were no comments about traffic, noise and potential environmental concerns, topics also addressed in the study." (February 7, 2001) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE But there is still time. Mail your environmental concerns and comments on redeveloping the port at Charlotte to Sandra Pinkney, Room 300-B, City Hall, 30 Church St.
2/06/01 -- Have your say about the Seneca Park Zoo development: IMPORTANT READ: Seneca Park Zoo Development Plan Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) 2/5/01 "An outline released on Monday sets forth the scope of the environmental impact statement for the Seneca Park Zoo's proposed expansion. Any comments about the draft report must be submitted by Feb. 21 to Scott Leathersich, senior physical services planner, Monroe County Division of Engineering, City Place, Suite 7100, 50 W. Main St., Rochester, NY 14614. --From Zoo plan takes step with report -- An outline released on Monday sets forth the scope of the environmental impact statement for the Seneca Park Zoo's proposed expansion. The public has until Feb. 21 to submit comments about the "draft scope." (February 6, 2001) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
02/05/01 -- Sorry for the inconvenience, but Rochester Calendar has stopped service. So, Check out the new RochesterEnvironment.com Calendar with new features. When you sign up for RochesterEnvironment.com's Newsletter, you get reminder e-mail about all Rochester-area environmental events too.
02/05/01 -- The Monroe County Environmental Management Council has just put out a new five-year Monroe County environmental plan will speed up reviews of development and other issues with potential impact on Rochester-area land and water resources. Reports can be reviewed at the EMC or can be purchased for $5.00/each. --from Natural resources plan grows in Monroe -- A new five-year Monroe County environmental plan will speed up reviews of development and other issues with potential impact on Rochester-area land and water resources. (February 5,2001) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
02/05/01 -- Interested in deer? Here's an interesting item. A guy in the Adirondacks who has been feeding deer has been ordered to stop by the NYS DEC. Andy's Deer Diner: Check out some great deer pictures and find out about Andy's cause and even sign a petition to the DEC.
02/03/01 -- Get involved in your future: Tuesday, February 6th, City Council Chamber, City Hall, 30 Church Street. "Those who cannot attend the hearing can submit written comments to the city until Feb. 22. Comments will be incorporated in the final report scheduled for completion in the spring." Copies of the design report and environmental assessment for the port project are available for viewing at the following locations: 1. Rochester, City Clerk's Office, 30 Church street 2.Central Library 115 South Ave, 3. Charlotte Library, 3615 Lake Ave. Study details Charlotte project A hearing Tuesday will offer insights into the port proposal -- The city will hold a public hearing Tuesday on a report detailing the proposed $75 million harbor project at Charlotte. (February 3, 2001) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
02/02/01 -- According the the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle's print version and the Associated Press, Total deer take in New York State rose to record levels in 2000.
02/02/01 -- I've created a new page. Food and the Environment. There are a number of issues containing concerns we should have about the food we eat. From genetically altered foods to contamination of our seafood, we should learn about how our food is affected by changes in our environment.
02/01/01 -- Will
this happen in Rochester, New York? Water systems face retirement
age. Utilities and
residents face a growing crisis. Water company officials say aging
systems and lack of cash to fix them are two real problems that America,
already shaken at the sight of Silicon Valley’s high-tech economic
powerhouse reeling from electricity outages, needs to confront. “This is a
huge issue that the country is going to have to address,” said Steve
Allbee, author of an Environmental Protection Agency study that projects a
shortfall of $23 billion a year for infrastructure needs by 2020.--MSNBC
02/01/01 -- This environmental story should give you pause: Are we running out of fish? --Consumer Reports Online
01/31/01 -- Here's an interesting item: On National Public Radio last night, on the local section, the newscaster mentioned that there are estimated to be between 15, 000 and 20,000 coyotes in Wyoming County, New York. Some sheep ranches have had to close down because the large number of sheep that have been killed by coyotes. This is startling to me, as I have heard but rare mention of there even being any coyotes in our area at all. If you know more about this coyotes problem in Wyoming County, please contact me--FrankRegan@RochesterEnvironment.com .
01/30/01 -- I'm passing this message on from WROC, CBS:
"Now two Rochester area groups will also send
relief to earthquake victims and you can help. If you’d like to
make a donation, send a check payable to:
Hindu Temple of Rochester
120 Pinnacle Road
Pittsford, New York 14534
Attention: Earthquake Relief Fund.
OR
Gujarat Disaster Relief Fund
send checks payable to:
ICC/GDRF
125 Highpower Road
Rochester, New York 14623
or call(716) 292-8228 for more information.
01/30/01 -- In today's print version of the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle there is an excellent guest essay, Health Tip for Monroe County: Enact the pesticide notification Law by Judy Braiman and Carol EcElroy. They, representatives from RAMP (Rochesterians Against the Misuse of Pesticides), bring to our attention that pesticide drift is a very real problem and our state Attorney General Office is deluged every year with stories of children getting sick from pesticide spraying. Children are especially vulnerable to pesticide poisoning and are at increased risk from childhood brain cancer, leukemia, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and Parkinson's disease. Although this law arms citizens with the information they need to avoid inadvertent exposure to hazardous pesticides and that this law was enacted it in August of 2000, only two counties in New York State have adopted it. Monroe County has not because we seem far more concerned with the law's effect on businesses, rather than our children's health. What undue burden does this law's bring upon businesses in our area-printing out leaflets and placing them on people's door? It seems absurd that our county has not passed this prudent and inexpensive yet. Contact our Monroe County Legislatures and urge them to enact the Neighborhood Notification Law. Ask them just what possible burden is so great to their businesses that is worth jeopardizing our children's future.
1/29/01-- Our New York State Superfund's monies are drying up because our governor and the NYS Legislature cannot come to an agreement on who should pay the most for a toxic cleanup. This is one of the most important environmental stories in our area. Here's the story: Superfund Financing Tied to Lower Standards NYTimes.
Care about the Adirondacks, one of the largest parks in the United States, right next door? Check out Adirondack Eco. There are some great Adirondack photographs.
01/26/01 -- Rabies Fact Sheet --from the New York State Department of Health. Report all animal bites or contact with wild animals to your county health authority. Don’t let any animal escape that has possibly exposed someone to rabies. Depending on the species, it can be observed or tested for rabies in order to avoid the need for rabies treatment. This includes bats with skin contact or found in a room with a sleeping person, unattended child, or someone with mental impairment. Bats have small, sharp teeth and in certain circumstances people can be bitten and not know it. --NYS Health Dept.
01/25/01 -- Think that Snowmobiles and ATV should be sharing Adirondack Forest Preserve's authentic wilderness? If not, there's still time to make written comments on the issue. Write to Karyn Richards, NYSDEC, Box 296. Route 86. Ray Brook, New York 12977. or e-mail here at kbrichar@gw.dec.state.ny.us Go to The New York State Department of Environment for more information. --from City. More here: State to Hold Public Meetings on Adirondack Snowmobile Plan- Plan to Focus on Balancing Recreation and Tourism with Protection of Forest Preserve New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner John P. Cahill today announced that DEC, along with the State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP) and the Adirondack Park Agency (APA), will hold a series of six meetings to seek information and comments from the public as part of the State's effort to develop a comprehensive snowmobile plan for the Adirondacks. Here's a copy of the letter, Adirondack Park, I wrote to Karyn Richards, NYSDEC, Box 296. Route 86. Ray Brook, New York 12977. or e-mail here at kbrichar@gw.dec.state.ny.us
01/24/01 -- Read the full report from the NYS Dept. of Health on the New York State Response to West Nile Virus.
01/24/01 -- Learn all you need to know about Lead Poisoning from the experts: Lead Poisoning from the New York State Department of Health.
01/23/01 -- Do you eat the fish you catch locally? Better read: 2000-2001 Health Advisories: Chemicals in Sportfish and Game - New York State Department of Health. The complete 2000-2001 Health Advisories: Chemicals in Sportfish and Game report is available as an Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) file (size 512 KB).-- from the NYS Dept. of Health
01/22/01 -- Major environmental news story today: UN Sees Faster Global Warming, Humanity Responsible. - The earth's atmosphere is warming faster than expected, evidence is mounting that humans are to blame and tens of millions of people may be forced from low-lying areas as seas rise, the U.N. said on Monday. (Reuters)
01/20/01 -- This site from the EPA shows the power and usefulness of the Internet for getting environmental information directly for Rochester, New York: Click here to get a complete EnviroMap of Rochester, New York. from the EPA. Find extensive environmental information about our city including of environmental information, including drinking water, toxic and air releases, hazardous waste, water discharge permits, and Superfund sites.
01/19/01 -- What do Monroe County residents think about their drinking water? You can obtain a copy of the Water Quality Survey report by calling the Monroe County Health Department at 274-8441.
01/19/01 -- How much does your vehicle pollute? Using Tailpipe Tally, you can compare the environmental and economic costs of different vehicles. Simply provide some basic information and get fuel consumption, fuel cost, and vehicle emissions for any vehicle (model year 1978 to present) you choose.
01/19/01 -- Think our environmental problems shouldn't be up and center in our attention? Think again : Time running out on environment. A new report underscores the relationship between population and resource overconsumption, a growing global problem. Signs of environmental degradation are everywhere. A new report from the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health warns that we are running out of time to protect the environment.
01/18/01 -- Help in an important bird count: Atlas 2000 The Breeding Bird Atlas is a comprehensive, statewide survey of breeding birds that will reveal the current distribution of breeding birds in New York. The Atlas 2000 Project began in January 2000 and will continue through 2004. Volunteer birders of all experience levels are needed statewide to participate the Atlas. As a volunteer, you will be provided with instructions, field cards, and maps of your assigned blocks. Atlasing is a different kind of birding because it involves observing behaviors rather than simply identifying the bird. No matter your level of experience, you are certain to learn something!
01/17/01 -- Your
environmental group need money? NEW
YORK GREAT LAKES PROTECTION FUND
SMALL GRANTS PROGRAM CALL FOR PROPOSALS - This small grants program
provides seed funding for new, cooperative approaches to projects with the
potential to improve understanding and/or management of New York's Great
Lakes basin. The program is intended to supplement the Great Lakes Research
Consortium's small grants program for preliminary research and to expand the
program to include cooperative projects between academic institutions, local
governments, non-profit organizations, school districts and others.
01/17/01 -- Teachers
& Parents, here's a great program for your kids: University of
Rochester Summer
Science Academy The Summer Science Academy is for exceptional high
school students entering 10 th through 12 th grades. The program offers
young people interested in biological science an opportunity to benefit from
the University of Rochester faculty and facilities. Monday thru Friday 9:30
to 3:00 pm July 9 - 20, 2001-- University of Rochester Medical Center
01/15/01 -- I wish to thank the Rochester Democrat and Chronicle for publishing my Letter to the Editor today --All Are Responsible for Environment's Health.
01/14/01 -- How safe is the seafood you eat? Find out:
01/14/01 -- How likely is it that your SUV will rollover? U.S. Transportation Secretary Slater Announces First Rollover Resistance Ratings U.S. Transportation Secretary Rodney E. Slater today announced the first rollover resistance ratings for passenger vehicles as the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) finalized a rating program that provides consumers with a measure of a vehicle's resistance to rolling over in a single vehicle crash. (January 14, 2001) U.S. Department of Transportation.
01/14/01 -- Want to monitor George W. Bush's actions and inactions on the environment? Go to Bush Watch.
01/14/01 -- I'm passing on this notice: A series of pesticide training and recertification classes and being offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension. Classes will be held throughout February and March in Rochester, Penn Yan, Canandaigua and Romulus. For detailed information, call (716) 394-3977, x31 or 38. --from The Town Crier
01/13/01 -- Check this site often in order to monitor George W. Bush's actions on our environment. President Bush Watch, George W. and the Environment. http://www.presidentbushwatch.org
01/13/01 -- Until now I have keep RochesterEnvironment.com from the political arena. No longer. The new administration which was appointed by the US Supreme Court under George W. Bush has made it clear that they do not appreciate our environmental peril. George W. Bush's nomination of Gale Norton’s nomination as Secretary of Interior is totally unacceptable. Find out her record from the Sierra Club. Go to SayNoToNorton.org and tell your representatives that this nomination is unacceptable and will result in a horrible decision for our environment.
01/11/01 -- Important news on Superfund: "Created in 1982, the Superfund program, which pays for the cleanup of New York's most hazardous sites not already on the federal Superfund list, received the bulk of its roughly $1.2 billion in funding from proceeds from the 1986 bond act. The funds have run out." -- from Pataki budget extends Superfund ALBANY -- Gov. George Pataki will unveil a roughly $80 billion budget bill on Tuesday that reiterates his call for extending the state Superfund in ways opposed by many environmentalists and lawmakers. (January 11, 2001) Times Union
01/11/01 -- I often get questions about how Global Warming will affect Rochester, New York. While it is difficult to assess the impact of Global Warming on any one area, this site explores some of the ramifications for our Great Lakes: Impacts of Climate Change in the United States - Great Lakes THE POTENTIAL IMPACTS OF GLOBAL WARMING ON THE GREAT LAKES REGION Critical Findings for the Great Lakes Region from the First National Assessment of the Potential Consequences of Climate Variability and Change
01/10/01 -- Because of its importance, I passing on this info from the EPA:
Public Comment Period
On December 12, 2000, EPA released the Proposed Plan for addressing the PCB-contaminated sediments in the Upper Hudson River. Two public meetings were held on December 12 and 14, at which oral comments were accepted. Written comments on the Agency's preferred alternative, as well as all the alternatives evaluated and the supporting documents, is currently being accepted. Comment should be postmarked by Friday, February 16, 2001, and sent to:
Alison Hess/Doug Tomchuk
Hudson River PCBs Public Comment
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
290 Broadway, 19th Floor
New York, NY 10007-1866
Comment will also be accepted until Friday, February 16, 2001 by E-mail at:
For general information on the Feasibility Study and Proposed Plan
For links to the complete Feasibility
Study Report.
01/08/01 -- This is a must: Know
the importance of Biodiversity. Biological
Diversity: The Oldest Human Heritage
Download PDF Version, Obtaining Hard Copies, Based on a manuscript written
by Edward O. Wilson of Harvard University, the BRI has published a booklet
that describes the importance of preserving biodiversity, along with
state-specific examples of threatened species and habitats. This is being
distributed to high school level students throughout the state.
01/07/01 -- New feature on RochesterEnviornment.com is a monthly poll. On the first page of this web, I will post a new poll in order to best find out from my visitors how best to tailor this site to your environmental needs. Please go to the home page and take a moment to fill out this week's poll.
01/07/01 -- Just sent this letter to the editor of
Democrat and Chronicle about the
rancor going on between environmentalists after the elections:
Perhaps the most pernicious aspect of the recent presidential election
debacle is the battle that has erupted in the environmental community. Down
below the threshold of our media's superficial attention is a seething
caldron of bitter infighting between those who blame the Nader group for
stealing the election from Gore and those who saw Nader as the only real
reform candidate. So contentious have these battles become that they
threaten to dissipate and defeat any effectiveness we might have. The lesson
we should learn from all this is that our environmental health does not lay
in one person or a single administration: That hope did not rest in Nader or
Gore, it resides in us. Each individual is responsible for learning how the
environment works and making sure that it remains healthy. Our survival
depends on each of us living in accord with Nature. Shortly, a new
administration, headed by a man who profoundly misunderstands the peril we
face, will begin dismantling what little our country has done to preserve
and protect that which sustains our existence. Corporate needs will trump
human needs, as history has proven.
Instead of blaming each other for defeat, a senseless self-defeating
drudgery, we should be working together and marshaling all our resources to
monitor and challenge this new administration on its roll in our
environment.
01/04/01 -- This is a must read: Four More Years, by Mary Anna Towler in City Rochester's alternative newsweekly Jan. 3-9th, 2001. (You can pick up City at most restaurants and other business locations in and around the city of Rochester.) Rochester's mayor, Mayor Bill Johnson, is deciding whether or not to run for a third term. If you understand the mayor's position on Urban Sprawl and you know his record, you'll be convinced that we need Mr. Johnson in office. Check out Towler's article, then go to Mayor Johnson's web site http://www.ci.rochester.ny.us and see his presentation on sprawl: -- Shaping Our Resources .
01/03/01-- Here's an interesting item from the Daily Messenger today about helping to count eagles in our area: "Anyone who thinks they have seen an eagle is encouraged to contact Mike Allen at the DEC at (716) 226-5456. Anyone interested in seeing when and where local wintering eagles equipped with satellite transmitters went, log on to www.learner.org/jnorth."
01/03/01 -- Because the troubles our NYS Superfund is having, Governor Pataki's State of the State address is worth paying attention to. The governor says, "So this year I will submit a package of initiatives to give State tax credits for brownfields redevelopment, particularly for large brownfields, and to give local assistance for redevelopment."
01/03/01 -- Even though only three counties in New York State have adopted the NEIGHBOR NOTIFICATION NOW LAW (Monroe County not being one of them) there are stipulations that pertain to all New York State Counties. "...schools and day care centers are under heightened notification requirements even if county governments have not "opted in" to the law, says State Attorney General Eliot Spitzer." --Rochester Democrat and Chronicle. More provisions of this law are explained the our State Attorney General at http://www.oag.state.ny.us/press/2000/dec/dec26a_00.html Learn more about Pesticides.
01/02/01 -- Here's a very important topic we all need to pay attention to. "By early 2001, money set aside for toxic cleanups will be gone, the Pataki administration, Democrats and environmentalists agree -- leaving nearly 800 contaminated sites untreated." from Heat bills, drug laws top the list in Albany ALBANY, N.Y. (January 2, 2001) -- Skyrocketing energy costs, toxic cleanups, ailing hospitals and strict drug laws are expected to be the high-profile items for the 2001 legislative session, lawmakers say. (January 2, 2001) DEMOCRAT AND CHRONICLE
01/02/01 -- There were no updates or RE Newsletter last week because I was on vacation. I'm back.
01/02/01 -- This just in:
Dear Frank Regan,
Thanks in part to your support, a thick, black cloud
of truck or bus exhaust will soon be a thing of the
past. That's because on Dec. 21, in a major victory
for clean air and public health, President Clinton
gave his final approval to new diesel emission standards.
The rules will require new diesel engines to be more
than 90 percent cleaner beginning in 2007, emitting
just a fraction of the smog and soot pollution emitted
by today's heavy-duty diesel engines. When implemented,
the rules will prevent thousands of premature deaths
each year, as well as millions of unnecessary illnesses.
The clean air benefits of the new engine standards
will be equivalent to taking 13 million trucks off
the road completely.
In addition to lobbying the EPA and other Clinton administration
officials directly, our staff also urged the public
to get involved. And this summer more than 50,000 Americans,
including thousands of PIRG members, wrote to U.S.
EPA administrator Carol Browner in support of the new
diesel emission standards. This fall, while the oil
and engine companies' lobbyists pressured the administration
to weaken the rules, another 30,000 citizens wrote
to the President urging him to stand firm.
We hope that the oil and engine companies now put aside
their fight and work to implement the new rules. But
should they continue to challenge the new clean air
standards in the courts or in Congress, U.S. PIRG,
along with the American Lung Association, the Union
of Concerned Scientists and the Natural Resources Defense
Council, will work to defend them.
Thanks again for your support,
Becky Stanfield
U.S PIRG Staff Attorney
http://www.pirg.org