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RochesterEnvironment.com

December 2009 NewsLinks Archived 

RochesterEnvironment.com

These archived Newslinks for this month represent just one month in over a decade of posting Rochester-area NewsLinks for our area.

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Don't have the time to check this site every day for Rochester environmental news --Get RochesterEnvironment.com Newsletter one a week in your e-mail. & get all the news, events, actions for the week. RENewsletter - a WEEKLY newsletter about Rochester, New York's environment.  Get the most important news of the day and monitor your environment. This newsletter provides you with the news you need, not simply the news you want--like most other media services. 

• New York's aging infrastructure a costly problem - KTTC Rochester, Austin, Mason City News, Weather and Sports ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) - Tens of thousands of miles of aging sewer and water treatment systems need extensive repairs and upgrades that could cost New York billions in the next two decades, an expensive undertaking even with the help of federal stimulus funding, according to state officials. New York's Department of Environmental Conservation found sewage-treatment infrastructure around the state is aging out and in need of an estimated $36.2 billion in repairs over the next 20 years. A similar state Health Department study estimated that drinking water infrastructure is in need of approximately $38 billion in repairs over 20 years (December 31, 09) KTTC Rochester, Austin, Mason City News, Weather and Sports - HOME [more on Water Quality in our area]
• 12/30/2009: EPA Submits Comments on New York State Marcellus Shale Natural Gas Drilling Environmental Impact Statement (New York, N.Y. ) The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today submitted its comments to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation on its September 2009 draft Supplemental Generic Environmental Impact Statement (dSGEIS) on horizontal drilling and high-volume hydraulic fracturing in New York State. The draft environmental impact statement is required by the State Environmental Quality Review Act in order for the state to review and process permit applications for the horizontal drilling and hydraulic fracturing of natural gas bearing shales, including the Marcellus Shale. EPA’s comments were submitted during the public comment period on the dSGEIS, which closes on December 31, 2009. EPA’s comments can be found at http://www.epa.gov/region2/spmm/r2nepa.htm#r2letters. (December 30, 09) U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases [more on Energy in our area]
• Hobart student delves into climate change issues  GENEVA — A trip this month to Copenhagen, Denmark, gave one Hobart College senior some expert opinions on international policy and lightbulbs. (December 31, 09) Finger Lakes Times Online - Front [more on Climate Change in our area]
• City ponders urban gardens | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle A Rochester consulting firm could spearhead a study on urban agriculture and community gardens, exploring applicable technologies and developing strategies best suited to Rochester. (January 1, 2010) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Plants in our area]
• ENVIRONMENT: Tributes to Christine Sevilla take root - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper Christine Sevilla worked passionately for the protection of sensitive natural areas, particularly wetlands. So it's fitting that her friends and family want to preserve a natural area in her honor - a wetland area in good shape would be ideal, says Steven Daniel, a naturalist and friend of Sevilla's. (December 30, 09) Rochester City Newspaper [more on Living Green in our area]
• Bog turtle study needed for Arcadia water district route | ARCADIA — Outside, the temperature was 12 degrees and falling. Lake-effect snow was blowing through, adding to the hard-crusted ice-and-snow pack. Inside, the Town Board was talking about bog turtles. (December 30, 09) Finger Lakes Times Online - Front [more on Wildlife in our area]
• E.P.A. Says New York Needs Closer Review of Natural-Gas Drilling - NYTimes.com The federal Environmental Protection Agency told New York State on Wednesday that it had major concerns about how proposed hydraulic drilling for natural gas would affect public health and the environment, and urged it to undertake a broader study of the potential impact. In formal comments on the state’s proposed regulations governing new natural gas drilling, the E.P.A. said it was particularly concerned about the regional water supply, air quality, wastewater treatment and radioactive materials that could be disturbed during drilling. (December 30, 09) http://www.nytimes.com/ [more on Energy in our area]
• Hundreds turn out for Canandaigua flu clinic - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow As of today, the Ontario County Public Health Department has administered about 5,000 vaccines at the various clinic , said Public Health Director Mary Beer. In addition, doctors throughout the county have been giving vaccines to their patients. (December 30, 09) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Environmental Health in our area]
• Take old prescription drugs to Fairport Police Department | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle You can now get rid of these drugs safely by taking them to the Fairport Police Department between 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the first Wednesday of every month from January through July. (December 31, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York  {more on Recycling in our area
• Ginna nuclear power plant shuts down with mechanical problem | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The Robert E. Ginna nuclear power plant in Ontario, Wayne County, was shut down early Wednesday because of a mechanical problem. "There's no threat to public safety or our workers' safety," said Dave Joslin of Constellation Energy Nuclear Group, which operates the Ginna plant.  (December 31, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York  [more on Energy in our area]
• Drilling Wastewater Disposal Options in N.Y. Report Have Problems of Their Own - ProPublica Environmentalists, state regulators and even energy companies agree that the problem most likely to slow natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale in New York is safely disposing of the billions of gallons of contaminated wastewater the industry will produce.  (December 29, 09) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest [more on Energy in our area]
• Finger Lakes Community College students win sustainability awards | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Four Finger Lakes Community College students received Limelight Awards for their dedication to sustainability. (December 30, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Environmental Education in our area]
• Chemicals in area’s water? No problem, authority says - Utica, NY - The Observer-Dispatch Advocacy group says laws need to be stiffened to protect public UTICA — The water Utica-area residents drink contains two toxic chemicals that have exceeded legal limits several times in recent years, test results show. But the Mohawk Valley Water Authority and state officials dispute the significance of those results, saying they create a misleading impression about local drinking water. (December 26, 09) Home - Utica, NY - The Observer-Dispatch [more on Water Quality in our area]
• As NY mulls hydrofracking regulations, gas companies lease land in CNY watersheds | News from The Post-Standard - But while the city of Syracuse spends about $750,000 a year to protect the lake and its water, the state is poised to allow oil and gas companies to use chemicals, sand and large amounts of water to drill for natural gas within the Skaneateles Lake watershed. The watershed is the area of land that feeds water into the lake from creeks, brooks and drainage ways. Companies hope to profit off the rich swaths of natural gas trapped deep in the shale underground. (December 25, 09) Syracuse NY Local News, Breaking News, Sports & Weather - syracuse.com [more on Energy in our area]
• RIT and Delphi Inc. Receive Federal Support for Fuel Cell Initiative RIT and Delphi Inc. Receive Federal Support for Fuel Cell Initiative Congresswoman Louise Slaughter secures $1.6 million for joint research initiative Congresswoman Louise Slaughter has announced a $1.6 million grant for a joint program between Rochester Institute of Technology and Delphi Inc. that is developing fuel cell technology for Department of Defense power and transportation systems. (December 22, 09) RIT - University News [more on Energy in our area]
• State Receives $5 Million Grant to Study Human Exposure To Micro-Amounts of Environmental Toxins ALBANY, N.Y. (Dec. 28, 2009) – A five-year federal grant will help the state Department of Health expand a laboratory biomonitoring program to evaluate state and regional concerns about human exposure to environmental toxicants, State Health Commissioner Richard F. Daines, M.D., announced today. "Biomonitoring moves public health surveillance into the 21st century by directly measuring chemicals or their by-products in human specimens, rather than deducing exposure from analysis of environmental samples," Commissioner Daines said. "This approach allows for more accurate risk assessment and detection of exposure trends that merit more attention for potential health effects." (December 29, 09) New York State Department of Health [more on Environmental Health]
• Old Christmas trees to become trail chips | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Christmas trees can be dropped off through Jan. 9 at the Helen McGraw Branch of the Irondequoit Public Library, 2180 E. Ridge Road, or the Helmer Nature Center, 154 Pinegrove Ave. (December 29, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Recycling in our area]
• ATTORNEY GENERAL CUOMO ANNOUNCES AGREEMENT WITH ONE OF THE LARGEST US ENERGY COMPANIES TO MAKE MAJOR CUTS IN AIR POLLUTION Duke Energy to Eliminate Over 85% of Annual Sulfur Dioxide Emissions -- Almost 35,000 Tons -- at Indiana Power Plant Company Will Pay $400,000 to New York for Projects to Fight Air Pollution and Promote Energy Conservation   NEW YORK, NY (December 22, 2009) - Attorney General Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that New York and a coalition of states, joining the U.S. Department of Justice and environmental groups, have reached a settlement with Duke Energy, one of the country’s largest power producers, requiring the company to make dramatic reductions in its air pollution emissions and pay for environmental projects in New York. (December 22, 09)HOME - OFFICE OF THE NEW YORK STATE ATTORNEY GENERAL ANDREW M. CUOMO [more on Air Quality in our area]
• Brooks Announces Free Christmas Tree Recycling Programs | Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks announced that residents can once again recycle their Christmas trees, free of charge, at several locations across Monroe County. Most drop-off locations will accept trees throughout the end of January 2010. MyMonroe. Opening Up Government. | Monroe County, NY  [more on Recycling in our area]
• DEC Suggests Wood Stove Burning Usage Tips - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Proper Use of Wood Stoves Not Only Saves Money But Can Be Environmentally Responsible New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Pete Grannis today reminded residents to exercise great care when using wood stoves in their homes. With the winter heating season now fully upon us, many New Yorkers have begun using wood- fired stoves to take the chill off of their homes. (December 23, 09) Press Releases - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation [more on Living Green in our area]
• 12/23/2009: EPA Proposes to Expand the Lead Monitoring Network /Proposed changes would help determine if areas meet air quality standards for airborne lead WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is proposing to expand the lead air quality monitoring network to ensure that the most vulnerable Americans are protected from exposure to lead. Even at low levels, exposure to lead can impair a child’s IQ, learning capabilities, memory and behavior. EPA is proposing to require air quality monitoring around sources that emit a half ton or more of lead a year, lowering the current threshold from one ton a year to include more sources. The proposal also modifies the current requirement for monitoring in larger urban areas. Monitors would be placed at each of the multi-pollutant monitoring stations being established in urban and rural areas.  (December 23, 09) U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases [more on Lead Poisoning]
• Parma man presses town to remove potentially contaminated soil from park | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle A Parma man who's twice had soil in the town park tested for pesticides now is threatening to sue the town to force removal of the soil. (December 28, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Brownfields in our area]
• Regulators shifting course on drugged drinking water | freep.com | Detroit Free Press Federal regulators under President Barack Obama have sharply shifted course on long-standing policy toward pharmaceutical residues in the nation's drinking water, taking a crucial first step toward regulating some of the contaminants and acknowledging they could threaten human health.  (December 23, 09) freep.com | Local News | Detroit Free Press [more on Great Lakes in our area]
• MARCELLUS SHALE: Kill the drill - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper Some environmental groups are calling for the state to scrap a draft environmental document which, if approved, would pave the way for a particular method of drilling in the Marcellus and Utica Shales. The shales contain significant natural gas reserves and energy companies are eager to tap into them. But environmentalists are concerned that the drilling would pose a public-health risk and damage the environment. (December 23, 09) Rochester City Newspaper [more on Energy in our area]
• Monroe County announces Christmas tree recycling - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Rochester, N.Y. — Beginning Dec. 26, Monroe County residents can recycle Christmas trees, free of  charge,  at  several  locations. Most drop-off locations will accept trees throughout the end of Jan. 2010. Christmas  trees received at these locations will be ground into wood chips for use as landscape  mulch.Certain drop-off locations may also offer these wood chips to residents for use in their own yards. Residents who live in the participating towns and villages are asked to bring their own containers in order to retrieve these wood chips. (December 25, 09) http://www.mpnnow.com/ [more on Recycling in our area]
• More robins are wintering over in Rochester | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Again this winter a lone American robin has taken up residence in my yard, feeding in a crab-apple tree in one corner and taking cover in a clump of spruces in the other corner. But I don't think it will stay very long. (December 24, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York  [more on Wildlife in our area]
• Fresh slap at drilling rules -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY New York City opposes state plan to limit risks of natural gas extraction | ALBANY -- New York City joined a broad coalition of environmental groups Wednesday in calling for Gov. David Paterson to scrap proposed state rules on natural gas drilling and start over. (December 24, 09) Albany NY News - Times Union - Serving Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady, Troy [more on Energy in our area]
• Don't meddle with lake levels, report says - Parry Sound That’s the continued recommendation of the International Great Lakes Study after peer review and more studying with a look at climate change on the St. Clair River and its connection to the water levels of the Great Lakes. (December 23, 09) Latest News and Features - Parry Sound [more on Great Lakes in our area]
• Nuclear plant spills tritium into lake - thestar.com Probe looks at why Darlington workers were filling wrong tank Workers at the Darlington nuclear station filled the wrong tank with a cocktail of water and a radioactive isotope Monday, spilling more than 200,000 litres into Lake Ontario. Ontario Power Generation is investigating how the accident happened and officials say hourly tests of the lake water show that the level of tritium – the radioactive isotope of hydrogen – poses no harm to nearby residents. (December 23, 09) News, Toronto, GTA, Sports, Business, Entertainment, Canada, World, Breaking - thestar.com [more on Great Lakes in our area]
• Red Tape, Executive Meddling Strangling New York's Environmental Protection Fund RED TAPE, EXECUTIVE MEDDLING STRANGLING NEW YORK'S ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION FUND REPORT DOCUMENTS HOW DELIBERATE ACTIONS TO SLOW ENVIRONMENTAL SPENDING LEAVE FUND VULNERABLE TO RAIDS (ALBANY, NY)—Environmental Advocates of New York released a new report today detailing how executive meddling, staff shortages and bureaucratic red tape are strangling New York’s environmental trust fund. According to the report, Tied Up In Knots, the Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) has been raided to the tune of nearly $500 million since it was created in 1993. Since 2002, one in every four dollars appropriated to the EPF has been “swept” into the State’s General Fund. Actions taken by Governor David Paterson have also made it harder for Fund dollars to reach environmental projects. Click here to download the report. (December 21, 09) Environmental Advocates New York
• NYPA trustees approve expanded energy efficiency and sustainability efforts WHITE PLAINS—New York Power Authority (NYPA) President and Chief Executive Officer Richard M. Kessel today announced plans by the statewide public power utility to expand its energy services programs in support of ambitious goals set by Gov. David A. Paterson to improve energy efficiency in New York State,  promote clean energy and advance environmental sustainability. (December 23, 09) New York State News on the Net![more on Energy in our area]
• Mystery plague killing bats across N.Y. | pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin Entire populations of brown bats, fury little critters the size of your thumb, are being mysteriously wiped out as they hibernate. The culprit is something called white-nose syndrome, a tell-tale fungus around the mouth and nose of affected bats. Scientists have yet to figure out whether the fungus kills the bats or if it's the symptom of another problem. Nor do they know what causes it. But there is no question about its impact. (December 21, 09) pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin | Binghamton news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Binghamton, New York [more on Wildlife in our area]
• 4 of 5 Great Lakes on the rise | detnews.com | The Detroit News Levels rising toward long-term historic averages, reports say (December 19, 09) http://www.detnews.com/[more on Great Lakes]
• GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES E-BUDGET INITIATIVE TO SAVE TAXPAYER DOLLARS AND REDUCE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS State Will Eliminate Full Printed Version of Executive Budget Books, Saving 5.5 Million Sheets of Paper, 660 Trees, and $75,000 per Year; Full Set of Budget Documents will continue to be Available over the Internet, Ensuring State Financial Information Remains Transparent and Accessible to the Public Governor David A. Paterson today announced that he will implement a new E-Budget initiative to help save taxpayer dollars and reduce environmental impacts. As part of his continued efforts to streamline State operations and improve government efficiency through the Office of Taxpayer Accountability, he will eliminate the costly and redundant full printed version of his 2010-11 Executive Budget Books, while continuing to post those documents on the internet. (December 22, 09) Press Releases [more on Green Living in our area]
• Kodak joins venture to produce 'greener' plastic | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Carbon dioxide is bad for the climate. Fossil fuels are bad for the environment. A Boston-based materials science company is using Eastman Kodak Co. equipment and personnel to combine the two into what it hopes is a "greener" form of plastic. (December 23, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Green Business in our area]
• Coast Guard targets zebra mussels in Great Lakes :: CHICAGO SUN-TIMES :: Nation WASHINGTON -- Twenty years after the pervasive zebra mussel was first detected in the Great Lakes, the U.S. Coast Guard is preparing rules to prevent new invasive species from infiltrating the nation's freshwater systems. (December 21, 09) Chicago Sun-Times [more on Zebra Mussels in our area]
• Increase of wind turbines provides clean energy but some fear impact - Utica, NY - The Observer-Dispatch Wind turbines have become part of the landscape around the region, but not without controversy. The tall towers and slim blades are becoming a more common addition to local vistas. Five projects exist to the south and to the north of the Mohawk Valley. As many as 14 might exist within a few years – nearly tripling the total.  (December 19, 09) Home - Utica, NY - The Observer-Dispatch [more on Wind Power in our area]
• Watertown Daily Times | Opponents challenge wind farm plans GALLOO ISLAND: Environmental studies, turbine placement under fire at Hounsfield Planning Board hearing (December 22, 09) Watertown Daily Times | Local News, Sports, Features, and Community Information for Jefferson County, St. Lawrence County, and Lewis County in Northern New York [more on Wind Power in our area]
• Redemption centers not seeing returns from new bottle bill - NewsChannel 9 WSYR Syracuse (WSYR-TV) - Redemption centers were expecting big benefits after the state began collecting nickel deposits on water bottles, but fewer people are buying bottled water. (December 21, 09) Home - NewsChannel 9 WSYR [more on Recycling in our area]
• Group criticizes state use of environmental fund | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal ALBANY -- An environmental group issued a report Monday bashing the state's handling of the Environmental Protection Fund, claiming too much of the fund has been used to pay the state's bills and not to help the environment. (December 21, 09)  theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY
• Ithaca company turning carbon dioxide into plastic | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal ITHACA -- Pollutants that once belched out of power plant chimneys may soon make an appearance in our refrigerators and reduce our dependency on petroleum, thanks to the pioneering work of an Ithaca company. Researchers at Novomer at the South Hill business complex have discovered a way to harness the harmful greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO2) and transform it into a plastic that is not only biodegradable and more energy efficient to produce, but also remarkably durable and light-weight. (December 13, 09)theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY  [more on Green Business in our area]
• Fewer streets will be salted this winter in Canandaigua - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — The city will scale back the amount of salt it uses this winter, and some streets that may have been salted in the past will not be any longer. The so-called “sensible salting plan” was first discussed by city leaders a year ago, but it officially went into effect following Thursday’s meeting of the City Council. (December 21, 09) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Living Green in our area]
• Monroe County wetland mitigation plan makes environmentalists wary | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The next chapter in the tale of discord between Monroe County and a group of environmentalists is unfolding over a plan that could create wetlands in county parks. If the county's prior effort at creating wetlands is any indication, there is reason to be concerned, environmentalists say. (December 21, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Wetlands in our area]
• Plan for trash transfer site in Ogden opposed | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Disposal companies use transfer stations as a way to save costly trips to faraway landfills. The collection trucks drop the trash off at the transfer stations where other more efficient trucks pick it up and bring it to the landfills. Grimm said the plan is to have the building empty each night, but bad weather or a late run may cause some overnight storage. In those cases, the trucks would move everything out first thing in the morning. (December 21, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Recycling in our area]
• Birders tally dozens of species in annual count | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Local birders tallied 86 species Sunday on the 106th Rochester Christmas Bird Count according to preliminary returns, said count compiler Robert Spahn. (December 20, 09)democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York  [more on Wildlife in our area]
• Dry-cleaning chemical spills require cleanup throughout Rochester area | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle From Brockport to Penfield, from Main Street in Rochester to Monroe Avenue in Brighton, the local map is stained with more than a dozen spots where dry cleaning went bad. The cause: A toxic chemical solvent that for decades washed clothes miraculously clean but escaped into the environment at the same time, leaving contaminated soil and underground plumes. (December 20, 09)democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York  [more on Brownfields in our area]
• Dry-cleaner contamination draws multiple lawsuits in area | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle A lawsuit filed by Brighton residents whose homes were impacted by two releases of dry-cleaning solvent and a major gasoline leak was settled last year. (December 20, 09)democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York  [more on Brownfields in our area]
• Canandaigua Council rejects ban on lawn chemicals - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — The City Council last night rejected a ban on the use of lawn chemicals on city-owned property. Instead, the council formally adopted its current practice of integrated pest management, which avoids the use of all phosphorous-containing fertilizers on city-owned property, except during the first growing season of new lawns or where there is a “demonstrated phosphorous deficiency.” (December 18, 09) [more on Pesticides in our area]
• BBC News - Climate summit: Where's the beef? He came. He did a quick deal. He left. That was how US President Barack Obama intervened in the global warming conference in Copenhagen and whether he saved it from total deadlock or condemned it to issuing a powerless piece of paper depends on your point of view. So the result was a political commitment not a treaty one. (December 19, 09) BBC - Homepage [more on Climate Change]
• New Courses Produce Building Professionals ROCHESTER, N.Y. – Monroe Community College is introducing a suite of Building Performance Institute (BPI) courses that trains students to become nationally certified building analysts, building envelope professionals, heating professionals or cooling professionals. Offered through MCC’s Office of Workforce Development, the courses promote energy-efficient building practices designed to lower energy costs; improve indoor air quality; and reduce waste, pollution and use of natural resources.  (December 16, 09)  MCC NEWS [more on Environmental Education in our area]
• GOVERNOR PATERSON URGES NEW YORKERS TO STAY HEALTHY THIS HOLIDAY SEASON BY GETTING VACCINATED AGAINST H1N1 FLU Governor Participates in Nationwide Public Service Announcement on H1N1 Vaccine Vaccine Now Available to General Public Governor David A. Paterson today urged New Yorkers to protect themselves against H1N1 flu this holiday season by taking advantage of increased access to the vaccine. In addition, the Governor is participating in a nationwide public service campaign to encourage increased pediatric vaccination against H1N1 flu. “Now that the vaccine is open to everyone, I encourage New Yorkers to take advantage of increased opportunities to receive the H1N1 vaccine,” Governor Paterson said. “The more New Yorkers who get vaccinated now, the better our chances are of avoiding increased H1N1 flu activity as we move through the winter months and into early spring. Let’s enjoy the holidays and get off to a healthy start in 2010 without the worry of getting or transmitting the flu.” (December 18, 09) Press Releases [more on Environmental Health in our area]
• 12/18/2009: EPA Releases First-Ever Baseline Study of U.S. Lakes WASHINGTON - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency today released its most comprehensive study of the nation’s lakes to date. The draft study, which rated the condition of 56 percent of the lakes in the United States as good and the remainder as fair or poor, marked the first time EPA and its partners used a nationally consistent approach to survey the ecological and water quality of lakes. A total of 1,028 lakes were randomly sampled during 2007 by states, tribes and EPA. (December 18, 09) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [more on Great Lakes]
• Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning earns national EPA award | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning and its partners received an award this week from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency that recognizes improvements in a community's health and its sense of justice. (December 12, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Lead Poisoning in our area]
• DEC Survey Shows Bat Populations down 90 Percent in Caves Impacted by "White Nose Syndrome" - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Wide-ranging, Coordinated Research Effort Continuing; NY Gearing Up for Next Round of Winter Surveys Populations of some bat species have plummeted more than 90 percent in Northeast caves impacted by "White Nose Syndrome," according to an extensive investigation by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC), Commissioner Pete Grannis announced today. (December 16, 09) Press Releases - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation [more on Wildlife]
• Tompkins Council of Governments comments on natural gas drilling ITHACA - The Tompkins County Council of Governments (TCCOG) added its official voice to concerns expressed regarding natural gas drilling in the Marcellus Shale.  By unanimous vote, Thursday, the Council approved comments to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYSDEC), a document which closely mirrors official concerns expressed by the Tompkins County Legislature earlier this week. (December 18, 09)  [more on Energy in our area]
• Watertown Daily Times | USDA grant aids Cape wind power project study CAPE VINCENT — Studies of a potential community wind power project are starting, thanks to a grant from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. (December 16, 09) Watertown Daily Times | Local News, Sports, Features, and Community Information for Jefferson County, St. Lawrence County, and Lewis County in Northern New York [more on Wind Power in our area]
• Greater Rochester Area Bicycling Map Now Available The Genesee Transportation Council, with the valuable assistance of volunteer members of the Rochester Bicycling Club (RBC), recently published the Greater Rochester Area Bicycling Map – 2009 Edition. The map provides bicycle ratings for major roads in the Rochester area and can be used as a guide for selecting routes to travel between different origins and destinations. (December 2009) Genesee Transportation Council - Newsletter [more on Transportation in our area}
• Millions Drink Tap Water That Is Legal, but Maybe Not Healthy - Series - NYTimes.com The 35-year-old federal law regulating tap water is so out of date that the water Americans drink can pose what scientists say are serious health risks — and still be legal. (December 16, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia [more on Water Quality in our area]
• RIT institute develops alternative energy sources | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Nabil Nasr has a clear interest in the outcome of the U.N. climate summit in Copenhagen, slated to conclude today. The issues on the table, after all, relate to the mission of the Golisano Institute for Sustainability, which Nasr directs at the Rochester Institute of Technology. (December 18, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Energy in our area]
• MPNnow County recognized for pharmaceutical waste disposal program RSS Rochester, N.Y. — State officials are praising Monroe County for paving the way in safely disposing of pharmaceutical waste. The state Department of Environmental Conservation honored the Monroe County Department of Environmental Services with its 2009 Environmental Excellence Award for holding the first pharmaceutical waste collection in the state. (December 16, 09) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [More on Recycling in our area]
• Climate change blamed for Great Lakes decline - The Globe and Mail Canadian-U.S. study attributes discernible drop in water levels in Huron and Michigan to drier weather  (December 17, 09)News from Canada and the world - The Globe and Mail [more on Climate Change in our area]
• Watertown Daily Times | Digester eyed for shared use LOWVILLE — A group in Lewis County is working to bring to small farms the technology that allows methane from manure to be converted to usable energy. (December 17, 09) http://www.watertowndailytimes.com/[more on Energy in our area]
• House passes jobs bill that will benefit New York | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle WASHINGTON — New York state government, school districts and local governments would receive additional federal aid early next year under a $174 billion jobs bill the House approved Wednesday on a vote of 217-212. (December 17, 09)democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Green Business in our area]
• CYCLING: Rochester: an emerging world-class cycling spot - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper High Falls is a stunning natural landmark and attraction in downtown Rochester, but to people bicycling through the city on the Genesee Riverway Trail, there's no clear, marked way to get there. Cyclist Jon Schull says that he takes a different route each time because he doesn't know the best way to go. (December 16, 09) Rochester City Newspaper [more on Transportation in our area]
• City set to negotiate new contract with Olmsted Conservancy : Home: The Buffalo News Mayor Byron W. Brown announced a breakthrough today in the city's high-profile talks with the Olmsted Parks Conservancy to continue maintaining the city's major parks.  (December 15, 09) The Buffalo News [more on Parks in our area]
• Conservancy supporters hold rally : City & Region : The Buffalo News 150 brave weather to press for Olmsted management of parks  | It was a day in the park Sunday for supporters and volunteers of the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy despite cold temperatures, freezing rain and gray skies. (December 13, 09) The Buffalo News [more on Parks in our area]
• Watertown Daily Times | Crow crew to raise stakes Plan is to kill a few birds to scare off the others  | Kill a dozen crows and scare away thousands. The U.S. Department of Agriculture said Monday that it could use high-powered pellet rifles to kill a few black-feathered crows in the city of Watertown to set an example to others. (December 15, 09)  Watertown Daily Times | Local News, Sports, Features, and Community Information for Jefferson County, St. Lawrence County, and Lewis County in Northern New York [more on Wildlife in our area]
• Climate Talks Near Deal to Save Forests - NYTimes.com COPENHAGEN — Negotiators have all but completed a sweeping deal that would compensate countries for preserving forests, and in some cases, other natural landscapes like peat soils, swamps and fields that play a crucial role in curbing climate change. (December 15, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia [more on Climate Change in our area]
• New York Energy Plan Promotes Gas, Solar and Wind Options - NYTimes.com A New York State board has recommended a plan intended to make energy more affordable, efficient and environmentally friendly while helping to create jobs over the next 10 years, officials said. The plan, released Tuesday by the State Energy Planning Board, is not binding, but Gov. David A. Paterson, who convened the board last year, said the recommendations will guide legislation he plans to pursue in the year ahead. “New York will lead the nation in the clean energy economy, and this state energy plan will help us get there,” Governor Paterson said in a statement. (December 15, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia [more on Energy in our area]
• Underused Drilling Practices Could Avoid Pollution - ProPublica As environmental concerns threaten to derail natural gas drilling projects across the country, the energy industry has developed innovative ways to make it easier to exploit the nation's reserves without polluting air and drinking water.  (December 14, 09)  [more on Energy in our area]
• Group threatens lawsuit over 144 species : 24 Hour Breaking News : The Buffalo News A conservation group is threatening to go to court if the Obama administration doesn't start making progress on a backlog of endangered species listings. The Center for Biological Diversity on Monday filed a formal notice of intent to sue the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over its failure to decide whether to protect 144 species on hold for lack of funding. (December 14, 09) The Buffalo News [more on Wildlife in our area)
• Rochester Recognized by EPA for Lead Abatement Efforts - News Room - University of Rochester Medical Center A partnership including the University of Rochester has been recognized for its efforts to reduce childhood lead poisoning in Monroe County. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today that the Coalition to Prevent Lead Poisoning has received the 2009 Environmental Justice Achievement Award.  (December 14, 09) http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/news [more on Lead Poisoning in our area]
• Stony Brook to lead state Energy Policy Institute ALBANY -  The State University of New York at Stony Brook will lead the New York Energy Policy Institute (NYEPI), a key initiative from the Governor’s State of the State address. Working in partnership with Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and Syracuse University, this consortium will coordinate the work of New York’s leading energy research centers and experts and serve as a resource for the State’s policymakers. (December 15, 09) New York State News on the Net!  [more on Energy in our area]
• WXXI: NY's Senators push to ban BPA In Products for Infants & Toddlers (2009-12-14) New York's two U.S. senators want to ban the chemical BPA from food and beverage containers used by infants and toddlers.  (December 15, 09) WXXI NewsRoom
• Victor OKs rules on wind turbines | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle  (December 15, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Wind Power in our area]
• Rochester-area shelters overcrowded with cats in need of adoption | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle While local rescue groups say they aren't seeing the jump in animal surrenders experienced in parts of the nation hit harder by job losses and home foreclosures, financial strain is putting the squeeze on adoptions and the donations that help support their efforts.  (December 15, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Wildlife in our area]
• Politicians choose sides in Marcellus Shale drilling debate | pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin Gov. David Paterson postponed it. State Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton wants to slow it down. Sen. Thomas Libous is for speeding it up. Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo is torn between extremes. (December 13, 09) pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin | Binghamton news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Binghamton, New York [more on Energy in our area]
• N.Y. lawmakers differ on prospects for climate change legislation | pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin WASHINGTON -- President Barack Obama's plan to tell an international conference on climate change that the U.S. will aid efforts to control global warming comes as prospects dim for turning that commitment into law, members of New York's congressional delegation say.  (December 12, 09) pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin | Binghamton news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Binghamton, New York [more on Climate Change in our area]
• 12/11/2009: Power Plants Continue to Decrease SO­2 Emissions under EPA Cap and Trade Program WASHINGTON — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced today that power plants across the country decreased emissions of sulfur dioxide (SO2), a precursor to acid rain, to 7.6 million tons in 2008. Emissions from sources in the Acid Rain Program fell by 52 percent compared with 1990 levels and are already below the statutory annual emission cap of 8.95 million tons set for compliance in 2010. (December 11, 09) U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases [more on Air Quality in our area]
• Victor looks at wind turbine law | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The Victor Town Board is expected to adopt a new law regulating wind turbines at a meeting this evening. A public hearing on the new law will be held early in the meeting. A vote is expected to take place later in the session. According to the 23-page legislation, the town encourages the use of alternative energy sources, but also acknowledges potential problems, such as: aesthetic impacts, noise, interference with communication devices, lighting, erosion, drainage, and dangers to birds and bats. (December 14, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Wind Power in our area]
• Action for a Better Community gets $8M in federal stimulus funding | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Action for a Better Community will receive more than $8 million in federal stimulus funding to pay for housing improvements, wage increases and employment services for residents of Monroe and Ontario counties. More than half of the money will go toward making energy efficiency upgrades to 640 housing units.  (December 14, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Green Business in our area]
• NYSDOT announces recommendations for federal grant awards for bus funding ALBANY - New York State Department of Transportation (NYSDOT) Acting Commissioner Stanley Gee announced the selection of the projects recommended for federal funding to purchase 188 accessible buses to support agencies that transport elderly individuals and individuals with disabilities. The Department, which administers the program on behalf of the Federal Transit Administration (FTA), has submitted a total of 88 grant recommendations for review. Final approval of these grant recommendations is expected in early Spring, 2010. (December 12, 2009)New York State News on the Net! (more on Transportation in our area]
• State proposes shad fishing ban for Hudson River | LoHud.com | The Journal News ALBANY — New York's population of American shad, a saltwater fish known by anglers for putting up a fight, is in a losing battle for its existence, but the state hopes newly proposed restrictions can help save the once-popular fish. (December 14, 2009)LoHud.com | The Journal News | Westchester, Rockland, Putnam news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, New York [more on Wildlife in our area]
• Paterson promises waterfront progress : Home: The Buffalo News Gov. David A. Paterson, surrounded by several area government officials, Saturday promised significant waterfront development within three years as a result of the "creative" use of New York Power Authority money that accelerates investment in the inner and outer harbors areas, including the Canal Side project.  (December 13, 09) The Buffalo News [more on Great Lakes in our area]
• News 10 Now | 24 Hour Local News | TOP STORIES | High speed rail analysis With billions of dollars of federal stimulus money at stake, a coalition of local, state and federal officials across Upstate New York are presenting a unified front in a battle for funding to create a new rail system to service the state. Our Bill Carey says those behind the multi-billion dollar plan think it could transform New York State, similar to a project launched back in the 1800s. (November 24, 09) News 10 Now | 24 Hour Local News | TOP STORIES [more on Transportation in our area]
• Municipalities seeking voice in Great Lakes agreement - The Sarnia Observer - Ontario, CA Cities around the Great Lakes and connecting waterways are calling for a spot at the table to renegotiate a more than 20-year-old agreement that governs the use of Earth's largest surface fresh water source.  (December 12, 09) The Sarnia Observer - Ontario, CA [more on Great Lakes]
• North Country Gazette » EPA: Finch Paper Doubled Amount Of Pollutants NEW YORK—Finch Paper LLC in Glens Falls had the largest increase in on site release of toxic air pollutants into the environment in New York State during 2008, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, nearly doubling the release of toxic chemicals from 2007 to 2008. According to the EPA’s Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) Finch Pruyn released 2.076 million pounds of toxic air pollutants in 2008, up from 1.074 million pounds released in 2007 for an increase of 93.28%. Finch is third in the state in the release of toxic air pollutants, behind the St. Lawrence Zinc Co. in Governeur with 4.061 million pounds, a decrease of 6.58%, and Eastman Kodak Co. of Rochester with 2.186 million pounds, a 7.52% decrease, according to the EPA in its report released last week. (November 11, 09) North Country Gazette [More on Air Quality in our area]
• Readers are closely split on climate change issue | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information By a narrow margin, respondents to this week’s RBJ Daily Report Snap Poll say they do not think climate change is a serious global problem that needs to be addressed now. (December 11, 09) Home | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information [more on Climate Change in our area]
• Tough bargaining still ahead at UN climate talks - COP15 United Nations Climate Change Conference Copenhagen 2009 After one week of UN-led climate negotiations in Copenhagen, some money is finally on the table and a draft agreement has been circulated. Now the really hard bargaining begins. The draft proposal was sent around Friday to the 192-nation conference, although it set no firm figures on financing or cutting greenhouse gas emissions. And the negotiations on sharing the burden are likely to still go down to the wire and await the arrival of the world's leaders next week. (December 12, 09) Home - COP15 United Nations Climate Change Conference Copenhagen 2009 [more on Climate Change in our area]
• Canandaigua council backs lakefront projects - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — The latest plans for a lakefront hotel have the unanimous support of the City Council. (December 12/09) Home - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow [more on Canandaigua Lake in our area]
• US Dept. of Energy says 'No' to Jamestown (ALBANY, NY)—On Friday, December 4th, the United States Department of Energy announced the agency’s second installment of Round 3 Carbon Capture and Sequestration (CCS) funding. Three projects received almost $1 billion in federal funds, but a hotly debated proposal in Jamestown, NY, was not among the projects funded. Environmental, health and energy groups have been fighting plans for the “clean” coal plant for years, noting the likely burden on Jamestown ratepayers, including the prohibitively high cost of power from the plant and the fact that the community can meet its energy needs more cheaply and cleanly.   (December 7, 09) Environmental Advocates of New York - Press Releases 2009 [more on Energy in our area]
• County DES Receives Statewide Honor for Pharmaceutical Waste Collection Program | County Executive Maggie Brooks announced the Monroe County Department of Environmental Services (DES) was honored by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commission for the County’s Pharmaceutical Waste Collection Program.  “This prestigious award shows how Monroe County has become a statewide leader in pharmaceutical waste collections,” said Monroe County Executive Maggie Brooks. “This program has served thousands of residents by safely removing tons of unused, unwanted and expired medications from our homes, keeping them out of landfills and the water supply.” (December 10, 09) MyMonroe. Opening Up Government. | Monroe County, NY [more on Recycling in our area]
• U.S. sees robust climate talks, no reparations | Reuters COPENHAGEN (Reuters) - President Barack Obama's top aides promised on Wednesday "robust" negotiations toward a global climate change deal this month, but firmly stated the United States does not owe the world "reparations" for centuries of carbon pollution.  (December 10, 09) Business & Financial News, Breaking US & International News | Reuters.com [more on Climate change]
• GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES FUNDING TO GROW 18 CLEAN ENERGY BUSINESSES IN NEW YORK Nearly $3 Million Awarded to Help Companies Expand Businesses, Commercialize Cutting-Edge Technologies and Create New Economy Jobs in New York Governor David A. Paterson today announced the award of $3 million to a variety of projects throughout New York. The funds will strengthen and support the growth of New York’s clean energy economy by helping 18 Empire State companies commercialize clean energy technologies.  (December 8, 09) Press Releases [more on Energy in our area]
• 12/08/2009: EPA Releases Most Up-to-Date Information Ever About Chemicals in New York Communities; Releases in New York State Down 15 Percent New York, N.Y.) Did you know that with a few clicks of a mouse, you can learn how many pounds of toxic air pollutants were generated by your local power plant, or how many pounds of toxic chemicals were released by a factory near your child’s school? Even better, for the first time, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is making its inventory of toxic release data, called the Toxics Release Inventory (TRI), available in the same calendar year that the reporting facilities submitted the information to the Agency. (December 8, 09) U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases [more on Brownfields in our area]
• Kodak to sell water treatment facility to county for $9.5 million | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information Eastman Kodak Co. said Thursday it has agreed to sell its water treatment facility to the Monroe County Water Authority for at least $9.5 million.  (December 11, 09) Home | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information [more on Water Quality in our area]
• Wayne recycling supporters make case Some oppose plan to switch to private haulers LYONS — A group of Wayne County residents expressed strong support for the county-run recycling program at last night’s public hearing on the proposed law to privatize it. (December 11, 09) Finger Lakes Times Online - Front [more on Recycling in our area]
• Paterson lifts restrictions to increase numbers vaccinated against H1N1 | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Gov. David Paterson's announcement Thursday that all New Yorkers older than 6 months can receive the H1N1 vaccine may give people in the highest risk groups more opportunities to gain protection from the flu strain. (December 11, 09)  [more on Environmental Health in our area]
• ENVIRONMENT: From activist Sevilla, a plea for the parks - Letters - Rochester City Newspaper For environmental activist Christine Sevilla, who was killed last week, the protection of MonroeCounty parks was a crucial issue. The day before her death, Sevilla e-mailed City an impassioned argument against proposed development plans for GreeceCanalPark. Members of the environmental community have asked that we publish it as a tribute to her. (December 9, 09) Rochester City Newspaper [more on Parks in our area]
• Tompkins environmental group urges conservation to reduce natural gas demand | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal Environmentalists are urging Tompkins County residents to "walk our talk" when it comes to opposing drilling for Marcellus Shale gas in the region.  Sustainable Tompkins is calling on people to reduce the demand for natural gas used in heating, electricity generation and synthetic fertilizers. The organization intends to track the collective impact of individual actions through its Web site, sustainabletompkins.org, as part of the Marcellus Challenge campaign. (December 9, 09) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [more on Energy in our area]
• Watertown Daily Times | Wind-farm law irks new officials HAMMOND — Future municipal officers of the town of Hammond are shaking their heads about the outgoing Town Council's decision to adopt a law regulating commercial wind farms, saying the board knew that the Hammond voting public was not comfortable with it.  (December 10, 09) [more on Wind Power in our area]
• Shale Task Force still a possibility in Seneca WATERLOO — After shelving it in October, Seneca County supervisors may reconsider the idea of forming a Marcellus Shale Task Force. Environmental concerns about the natural gas drilling process called hydraulic fracturing or hydrofracking are prompting talk of a second look at a task force.  (December 9, 09) Finger Lakes Times Online - Front [more on Energy in our area]
• Wayne recycling on tonight's agenda  LYONS — Wayne County supervisors could make a final decision tonight on the fate of the county-subsidized recycling program and materials recovery facility. At 7 p.m. at the Wayne County Courthouse, the board will hold a public hearing on a local law that would do away with the current program and institute a licensing requirement for all county trash haulers, forcing them to include recycling pickup as part of their service. (December 9, 09) Finger Lakes Times Online - Front [more on Recycling in our area]
• DEVELOPMENT: Pittsford to look at smaller developments - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper Large plots of land available for development are becoming scarce in the Town of Pittsford. Over the years, larger properties - which were often old farms - were subdivided and built up, or permanently protected under the town's Greenprint, a farmland and open-space preservation plan. (December 9, 09) Rochester City Newspaper [more on Urban Sprawl in our area]
• Poll: We'll pay to avert climate change if it creates jobs | McClatchy WASHINGTON — As President Barack Obama prepares to attend a world summit on climate change, a majority of Americans are willing to pay more for a solution only if it would create "green" jobs in the United States, according to a McClatchy-Ipsos poll released Wednesday. (December 9, 09)McClatchy | Homepage [more on Climate Change]
• Major Crackdown on Deer Poaching Nets More Than 100 Individuals - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation "Operation Jackhammer" Targets Violators in Hudson Valley, Catskills, Capital Region and Adirondacks A major initiative to crack down on illegal deer hunting from the Hudson Valley to the Canadian border has led to charges against 107 individuals for more than 250 offenses, New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Pete Grannis announced today.  (December 8, 09) New York State Department of Environmental Conservation [more on Deer Problem in our area]
• EPA official asserts greenhouse gases a danger, vows action | WASHINGTON - As representatives from 192 countries began the world's most historic climate talks in Copenhagen yesterday, Lisa Jackson, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency administrator, stole the show on the west side of the Atlantic Ocean when she declared greenhouse gases a threat to "the public health and welfare of the American people" at a news conference in Washington. (December 8, 09) http://toledoblade.com/home [more on Climate Change]
• Congressman Lee Hosts First Energy Meeting  Congressman Chris Lee, Republican 29th District ROCHESTER, NY (WXXI) - Congressman Chris Lee, a Republican whose district covers the western portion of New York, held his first meeting with energy leaders Monday at the Rochester Institute of Technology.  (December 7, 09) WXXI | Go Public. [more on Energy in our area]
• Dark Side of a Natural Gas Boom |  Across vast regions of the country, gas companies are using a technology called hydraulic fracturing to produce natural gas from previously untapped beds of shale. The push has been so successful that the country’s potential gas reserves jumped by 35 percent in two years. The new supplies have driven down natural gas prices for consumers and might help the global environment by allowing more production of electricity from natural gas, which emits fewer global warming emissions than coal.The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia [more on Energy in our area]
• 6,000 sign petition asking DEC to strengthen natural gas-drilling regulations | stargazette.com | Star-Gazette An Ithaca environmental activist and 6,000 other individuals and organizations asked the governor Tuesday to withdraw the state's newly drafted regulations on natural gas drilling, saying the state's entire regulatory framework needs to be strengthened before more drilling occurs.  (December 8, 09) stargazette.com | Star-Gazette | Elmira news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Elmira, New York [more on Energy in our area]
• Watertown Daily Times | Protecting lakes Strict measures needed to control invasives  | The U.S. Coast Guard has been taking comments in recent months on proposed national standards to halt the introduction of foreign species that can be detrimental to the ecosystem. (December 7, 09)  [more on Invasive Species in our area]
• Global Warming Is Not Slowing, Report Says - NYTimes.com COPENHAGEN — Despite recent fluctuations in global temperature year to year, which fueled claims of global cooling, a sustained global warming trend shows no signs of ending, according to new analysis by the World Meteorological Organization made public on Tuesday. (December 8, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia [more on Climate Change in our area]
• Millions in U.S. Drink Contaminated Water, Records Show - NYTimes.com More than 20 percent of the nation’s water treatment systems have violated key provisions of the Safe Drinking Water Act over the last five years, according to a New York Times analysis of federal data.  (December 7, 09) The New York Times - Breaking News, World News & Multimedia [more on Water Quality in our area]
• 12/07/2009: EPA: Greenhouse Gases Threaten Public Health and the Environment / Science overwhelmingly shows greenhouse gas concentrations at unprecedented levels due to human activity EPA: Greenhouse Gases Threaten Public Health and the Environment Science overwhelmingly shows greenhouse gas concentrations at unprecedented levels due to human activity WASHINGTON – After a thorough examination of the scientific evidence and careful consideration of public comments, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today that greenhouse gases (GHGs) threaten the public health and welfare of the American people. EPA also finds that GHG emissions from on-road vehicles contribute to that threat. (December 7, 09) U.S. EPA Newsroom - News Releases [more on Climate Change in our area]
• Canandaigua committee to discuss lawn chemical policy tonight - Canandaigua, NY - MPNnow Canandaigua, N.Y. — The city’s Environmental Committee will once again examine the policy for the use of lawn chemicals on city-owned property at its meeting Tuesday night.  (December 8, 09) http://www.mpnnow.com/ [more on Pesticides in our area]
• Feds approve N.Y. appliance rebate | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle ALBANY — The U.S. Department of Energy announced Monday that it has approved New York's plan to give consumers rebates for purchasing energy-efficient appliances during President's Week in February. (December 8, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Energy in our area]
• Tests show high concentration of radioactive waste in Marcellus | pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin Radioactive waste from the Marcellus is an issue state regulators will have to anticipate as they draft new rules for tapping the massive natural gas (December 6, 09)  pressconnects.com | Press & Sun-Bulletin | Binghamton news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Binghamton, New York [more on Energy in our area]
• Bill McKibben: Why Politics-As-Usual May Mean the End of Civilization Most political arguments don’t really have a right and a wrong, no matter how passionately they’re argued. They’re about human preferences -- for more health care or lower taxes, for a war to secure some particular end or a peace that leaves some danger intact.  On occasion, there are clear-cut moral issues: the rights of minorities or women to a full share in public life, say; but usually even those of us most passionate about human affairs  (December 6, 09) Breaking News and Opinion on The Huffington Post [more on Climate Change]
• Upgrades to Greece Canal Park priced | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Construction could begin by spring on $2 million in improvements for Monroe County's Greece Canal Park. But, county officials have yet to decide what those improvements may be. During a public forum late last month, community members weighed in with their ideas: a second entrance, better trails, more Erie Canal-related amenities, lacrosse fields and garden plantings. (December 7, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York  [more on Parks in our area]
• Energy Dept. to issue report on inquiry into N-waste effects in Lewiston, Porter : Niagara County : The Buffalo News LEWISTON — The U. S. Department of Energy plans to release a report in March as part of its inquiry into potential radiological contamination in Lewiston and Porter left over from the country’s first nuclear weapons program, an agency representative said Wednesday night. (December 3, 09) The Buffalo News [more on Brownfields in our area]
• Green groups want drilling freeze -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY ALBANY -- A broad coalition of environmental groups wants Gov. David Paterson to scrap proposed rules on natural gas drilling and start over, this time with help from his former environmental deputy, Judith Enck, who this week started as a regional administrator for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (December 4, 09) Albany NY News - Times Union - Serving Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady, Troy [more on Energy in our area]
• Forum on jobs & economic growth planned in western New York BUFFALO – Mayor Byron Brown, at the request of President Barack Obama, will host a local forum on jobs and the economy on Wednesday, December 9th from 4:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. Participation is free, but prior registration is required. Anyone wishing to participate can register the following ways: online at www.city-buffalo.com/mayors-jobforum, by faxing the RSVP to (716) 851-5052 or by calling 3-1-1. Any questions can also be addressed by calling 3-1-1.  (December 3, 09) New York State News on the Net! [more on Green Business in our area]
• Environmentalists: Revise Gas Drilling Review? Nope – Repeal It! - ProPublica There's nearly a month left in a public comment period for an environmental review of natural gas drilling in New York, but environmentalists have gone beyond requesting changes to the document -- they're asking that it be repealed all together. (December 5, 09) ProPublica - Journalism in the Public Interest [more on Energy in our area]
• GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON ANNOUNCES NEW YORK WILL RECEIVE $31 BILLION IN FEDERAL STIMULUS FUNDS Governor David A. Paterson today announced that New York will receive at least $31 billion in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) funds, part of $420 billion that will be appropriated to states and other recipients over the length of the federal stimulus program. The Economic Recovery and Reinvestment Cabinet released the total in a report to the Governor on the use of stimulus funds in the State. It also noted that New York continues to apply for some of the $44 billion in additional funding available through competitive grants, which may increase the final allocation. “Since President Obama and Congress authorized the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act last February, I have dedicated the full resources of the Governor’s office to maximizing our share of federal stimulus money. Thus far, we have spent the funds wisely and judiciously, and we will continue to do so,” Governor Paterson said. “Getting New Yorkers back to work is my number one priority, and we will use this money to redouble our efforts to create jobs and put our State on the road to fiscal recovery.” Job Training: The State Labor Department received $169 million in Workers Investment Act (WIA) funding, of which $157 million has been obligated. There were 18,408 participants in training at the local level during the period from May through the end of August. In addition, $24.8 million of State WIA funds have been awarded in 218 contracts that will train more than 15,000 workers. (December 4, 09) http://www.ny.gov/governor/press/index.html [more on Green Business in our area]
• GOV SITE - GOVERNOR PATERSON SUPPORTS TASK FORCE RECOMMENDATIONS TO STRENGTHEN CHILDHOOD LEAD POISONING PREVENTION EFFORTS Enhancements to Occur Through Stronger Collaboration, Coordinated Strategy, Use of Existing Resources Governor David A. Paterson today expressed support for new measures that will be taken to improve children’s health through the further reduction of childhood exposure to lead poisoning. The measures, to be implemented with existing financial resources and statutory authority, were outlined in a preliminary report issued this week by the Task Force on the Prevention of Childhood Lead Poisoning, an interagency workgroup Governor Paterson created with Executive Order No. 21. (December 3, 09)  [more on Lead Poisoning in our area]
• New Maps And Enhanced Recreation Information Highlight Expansion of DEC's Mapping Gateway - NYS Dept. of Environmental Conservation Universally Accessible Destinantions, Bird Atlas, Boat Launches and Fishing Areas Become Part of User-Friendly Webiste Improvements New and enhanced tools to help the public find wildlife, accessible recreation, boat launch sites and much more throughout New York are now available on the state Department of Environmental Conservation's (DEC) Mapping Gateway website. (December 03, 09) New York State Department of Environmental Conservation [more on Environmental Education in our area]
• 12/03/2009: New Online Forum Increases Public’s Access to EPA WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has launched an online discussion forum designed to enhance communication between EPA and the public on contaminated sites, waste management, and recycling issues. The forum, which is a public comment board, is another important component in EPA’s ongoing efforts to increase transparency and public engagement. More information on the forum: OSWER Discussion Forum (December 03, 09) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [more on Recycling in our area]
• Rock For Shaleshock Like many causes before them, Shaleshock has turned to rockers to raise awareness and money for its mission. Life is Water: A Concert to Defend the Finger Lakes Against Unsafe Gas Drilling is set for 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, at the State Theatre. The event will feature the talents of Donna the Buffalo, the Sim Redmond Band and The Horse Flies to spread the message of the Shaleshock Citizens Action Alliance - a grassroots group of Finger Lakes residents who are concerned with protecting our communities and environment from exploitation by the energy industry in drilling for natural gas in the Marcellus Shale. (December 2, 09) Ithaca Times [more on Energy in our area]
• Great expectations for Great Lakes -- Page 1 -- Times Union - Albany NY ALBANY -- The possible transformation of the Great Lakes into a major source of wind-generated electricity began Tuesday, when New York became the first state to open its share of the lakes to offers by private wind developers. (December 2, 09) Albany NY News - Times Union - Serving Albany, Saratoga, Schenectady, Troy [more on Great Lakes ]
• Power Authority seeks bids for wind farm : Business : The Buffalo News The New York Power Authority took its first major step Tuesday to advance its efforts to encourage the development of a big wind farm off the shores of Lake Erie or Lake Ontario. (December 2, 09)  The Buffalo News [more on Wind Power in our area]
• NY phasing in system to promote energy conservation | theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal ALBANY -- New York is phasing in a new billing system for electric and gas delivery that guarantees utilities steady revenues even when sales fluctuate and that exposes customers to small surcharges or rebates in their monthly bills. (December 2, 09) theithacajournal.com | The Ithaca Journal | Ithaca news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Ithaca, NY [more on Energy in our area]
• Power Authority seeks proposals for wind projects | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information The New York Power Authority has released requests for proposals for the development of off-shore wind power projects in Lake Ontario and Lake Erie, the agency said Tuesday. (December 2, 09) Home | Rochester Business Journal New York business news and information [more on Wind Power in our area]
• Legislator seeks Monroe County land parcel | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The Monroe County Legislature regularly transfers land it doesn't need to nearby property owners. But tonight, lawmakers will vote on whether to transfer one acre of land to one of their own members. (December 3, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Urban Sprawl in our area]
• Monroe County Health Department announces two more H1N1-related deaths. | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle The Monroe County Health Department reported Wednesday that two more adults have died from causes associated with the H1N1 virus as officials begin to keep their eyes out for seasonal flu. (December 3, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Environmental Health in our area]
• PARKS: Major projects planned at two county parks - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper The County Parks Department will enter the new year with two major projects simmering: developing the first-ever master plan for Powder Mills Park in Pittsford-Perinton, and making as-of-yet unspecified improvements to Greece Canal Park. (November 2, 09)Rochester City Newspaper [more on Parks in our area]
• ENERGY: Huffing and puffing over wind power - News Articles - Rochester City Newspaper Did the federal government, as some have said, give millions of dollars in stimulus funds to a non-producing wind farm in the Southern Tier town of Cohocton? Not exactly. (November 2, 09)Rochester City Newspaper [more on Wind Power in our area]
• Rochester investigates landfill site because of vapor concerns | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Concern that vapors from the former Emerson Street Landfill might be entering buildings on the site has prompted the city to seek a consultant to re-investigate the property. (December 3, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York  [more on Brownfields in our area]
• Farmer's market stretches into winter | democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle Like many Brighton residents, walking to and shopping at the Brighton Farmer's Market became part of my Sunday morning routine this summer and fall. (December 02, 09) democratandchronicle.com | Democrat and Chronicle | Rochester news, community, entertainment, yellow pages and classifieds. Serving Rochester, New York [more on Food & Environment in our area]
• 12/01/2009: Are You Ready for RecycleMania 2010? - (PHILADELPHIA – December 1, 2009) Last year 4.7 million students and 1.1 million faculty and staff from 510 participating campuses collectively recycled or composted just over 69.4 million pounds of waste during the 10-week RecycleMania competition. (December 1, 09) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [more on Recycling in our area]
• Cities, organizations line up for share of stimulus funds :: Local News :: Post-Tribune Up to $475 million available for Great Lakes restoration | MERRILLVILLE -- Several Northwest Indiana cities and organizations are working to get their share of $475 million in federal stimulus funding for Great Lakes restoration. (November 30, 09) Post-Tribune of Northwest Indiana [more on Great Lakes]
• U.S. falling behind in clean-energy race: Chu | Green Business | Reuters GREENVILLE, South Carolina (Reuters) - The United States is falling behind in the race for clean, renewable energy and risks losing its prominence in high-tech manufacturing, U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu said on Monday. (November 30, 09) Reuters.com - World News, Financial News, Breaking US & International News [more on Energy in our area}
• Chesapeake Bay Journal: Marcellus Shale: Pipe dreams in Pennsylvania? - December 2009 A region is discovering that the price of the economic boom from natural gas drilling may be irreversible environmental damage and residents' peace of | When the natural gas companies descended on Pennsylvania's Marcellus Shale two years ago, it felt like a Gold Rush. And everyone seemed to be hitting pay dirt. Landowners, many in long-depressed regions, rushed to lease their property, betting the promised royalties would better their lot. Mayors rejoiced that restaurants and hotels were full after decades of barely hanging on. Legislators talked of thousands of new jobs. (December 2009) Chesapeake Bay Journal - The Chesapeake Bay Newspaper - December 2009 - Vol 19 - Num 9 [more on Energy in our area}