CT Environmental Headlines

Bristol holding public meeting on cleanup options for former Mills property

Christopher Zurcher — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 03:19:49 +0000

The public will have an opportunity to get more information and comment on the city’s plan to use $345,000 in federal stimulus money for an environmental cleanup at an old industrial site downtown where the city plans to construct a community parking lot. via City holding public meeting on cleanup options for former Mills property
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Bicyclists Test West Hartford Road Safety

Christopher Zurcher — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 03:15:38 +0000

About 10 cyclists, who included members of advocacy group Bike Walk Connecticut and the town council, took a 10-mile spin to see what could be done to improve bike-car co-existence. Traffic in West Hartford make it a tougher place to cycle in than some more rural neighboring towns, Slifka said. Still, West Hartford set up
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TEACHING JOB: Substitute Instructional Assistants – Connecticut River Academy, East Hartford

Christopher Zurcher — Fri, 03 Sep 2010 02:59:41 +0000

The Connecticut River Academy, a new environmental studies magnet high school operated by Goodwin College on its River Campus in East Hartford, is looking for Substitute Instructional Assistants for 9th and 10th grade for the 2010-2011 school year. Associates Degree or Paraprofessional Certification is required. The school features a collaborative teaching model, block scheduling, hands-on
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Council Goal is 25,000 EVs on CT Roads by 2020

Christopher Zurcher — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:47:59 +0000

Twenty-five-thousand plug-in vehicles on state roads by 2020 is the goal and vision embraced by Gov. M. Jodi Rell and her Electric Vehicles Infrastructure Council. The 25,000 target is one of the many recommendations the Council included in its final report this week to the governor on comprehensive ways to prepare the state for the advent of the new generation of zero-emission electric vehicles. The state’s commitment for EVs complements Governor Rell’s 'Energy Vision for a Cleaner, Greener State,' which set a goal of increasing the percentage of clean, renewable energy consumed by state government from all sources to 20 percent by the year 2020.

New York Smart Growth Act Signed Into Law | Steven Higashide, Mobilizing the Region

Christopher Zurcher — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 22:38:09 +0000

The Smart Growth Public Infrastructure Priority Act (A8011B/S5560B), which directs New York state agencies to make their infrastructure spending decisions in accordance with smart growth principles, has been signed into law by Gov. Paterson. The law was a priority for Vision Long Island, Empire State Future, TSTC, and other transportation and planning groups, and its passage was hailed by advocates.

Conservation beats alternatives

Christopher Zurcher — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 15:10:20 +0000

People who want to be green and save green know conservation is the cheaper, more logical alternative, and the Morris Town Hall project is a good example. Tests by Energy Conservation Specialists of Connecticut revealed massive energy leaks equivalent of two open garage doors. via Conservation beats alternatives | The Republican-American.

Priam Vineyards taps sun for cost savings

Christopher Zurcher — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 05:00:46 +0000

Colchester, Conn. — The power of the sun gives Priam Vineyards plentiful grapes. Sunlight and technology work together to lower the winery’s electric bill. The vineyard on 40 acres off Shailor Hill Road has started using solar panels to completely power the winery. It’s the first solar-powered winery in New England, according to owners Gary
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Geneva talks aim to secure climate finance progress. – swissinfo

Christopher Zurcher — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 04:48:16 +0000

Switzerland’s top climate envoy hopes this week’s informal financing meeting in Geneva will rebuild trust to revive the stalled global climate change talks.

Crackdown on ATV riders in Shelton

Christopher Zurcher — Thu, 02 Sep 2010 04:24:25 +0000

Authorities in Shelton want people out enjoying the great outdoors to use their cell phones and cameras to help them crack down on illegal ATV use. via Crackdown on ATV riders in Shelton | WTNH.com Connecticut.

Bill McKibben book ‘eaarth’ frightens David Letterman

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 23:44:52 +0000

Letterman has read the book and told McKibben it frightens him. On Late Night with David Letterman last night, they discussed the recent record-breaking 129-degree days in Pakistan and the record rain flooding that continues there. Click above to watch the whole clip courtesy of 350.org.

Blumenthal appeals to environmentalists and other lovers of Long Island Sound

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 22:55:02 +0000

U.S. Senatorial Richard Blumenthal has released an ad in which he promises to hold big oil accountable if elected to the Senate, just as he fought Shell Oil and TransCanada Energy, who proposed building "Broadwater," a huge liquefied natural gas storage facility in the middle of Long Island Sound, that Blumenthal opposed.

EPA asks CT to curb electricity use

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 22:46:02 +0000

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency wants businesses and residents in Connecticut and the rest of New England to cut their energy and fuel consumption over the next two days as the air quality has reached unhealthy standards. via EPA asks CT to curb electricity use | Hartford Business.

Chevrolet Volt extended range electric vehicle and green tech at Live Green CT! Sept. 18 and 19, 2010, Norwalk

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 22:40:14 +0000

Live Green Connecticut! scheduled for Sept. 18 and 19 at Taylor Farm Park on Calf Pasture Beach Road in Norwalk, is a family-friendly, fun-filled, two-day festival showcasing eco-friendly businesses, environmental organizations, demonstrations, health and wellness, money saving ideas and new technology.

SWEP-CT Accepting Applications for Environmental Grants

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 20:34:11 +0000

The Connecticut Society for Women Environmental Professionals is offering grants of up to $1,000 to support environmentally beneficial projects. The deadline for applications is Oct. 15, 2010.

Seascape Initiative aims to turn the tide for the New York seas

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 20:24:53 +0000

Just off the New York coastline lives an undersea wilderness. Sharks, sea turtles, dolphins, whales, seals, skates, and rays swim below the many flying shorebirds and seafaring ships of the eastern Atlantic. In all, more than 300 fish species feed, breed, and migrate through the New York Bight, which stretches between Montauk in northern Long
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CTLCV makes first endorsements

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 20:16:54 +0000

The Connecticut League of Conservation Voters has named its first round of endorsed candidates for election to the Connecticut General Assembly in the November 2 elections. Fifteen candidates who demonstrate strong leadership on environmental issues were named in CTLCV’s first round of endorsements. All candidates endorsed must be committed to protecting Connecticut’s land, water, air, wildlife, and will work toward solutions to our state’s pressing issues such as transportation, energy policy and waste management.

‘Tens of thousands of gallons’ of foam fouls West Haven river as Yale fire suppression system malfunctions

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 16:46:07 +0000

WEST HAVEN — “Tens of thousands of gallons” of a flame-suppressing chemical foam is believed to have spread from a broken pipe fitting at Yale University’s West Campus into the Oyster River, authorities said this morning. The foam is not harmful to people, officials said, but fish die off has been reported. via ‘Tens of
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DEP Issues Revised Permit for Management of Industrial Storm Water Runoff

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:58:09 +0000

The DEP has revised the requirements for management of storm water runoff from industrial sites under its General Permit program. The revised permit addresses EPA’s concerns and the growing awareness in Connecticut that contaminants in storm water runoff impact the quality of our lakes, rivers, and streams.

North Haven Rotary Club collects used cell phones for charity

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:45:24 +0000

The North Haven Rotary Club collects used cell phones and their batteries, which it submits to the PaceButler Coorperation in Oklahoma for redistribution to the military and needy people around the world. By recycling these phones fewer harmful chemicals end up in landfills, which helps protect our water supply.

Westbrook, Transit District Unveils Bus Shelters (update)

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:30:17 +0000

The Town of Westbrook and 9 Town Transit held a ribbon cutting ceremony Tuesday, August 31, to unveil the area's first bus shelters. The Day reports witih photo.

Commission seeking comment on Conn. public transit

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:20:41 +0000

WATERBURY, Conn. — The Connecticut Public Transportation Commission is planning a series of hearings to gather public opinion about transportation and what improvements and new services are needed. The first hearing is scheduled for Sept. 7 at Waterbury’s municipal building. via Commission seeking comment on Conn. public transit – The AP via the Connecticut Post.

U.N. told to revise climate research

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:12:58 +0000

Scientists reviewing the acclaimed but beleaguered international climate change panel called Monday for a major overhaul in the way it's run, but stopped short of calling for the ouster of the current leader. The independent review of the U.N. climate panel puts new pressure on chairman Rajendra Pachauri, who has been criticized for possible conflicts of interest, but shows no sign of stepping down.

Brunswick Metals receives CEEF incentive check

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 05:50:56 +0000

Bridgeport, Connecticut-based Bushwick Metals has recieved an an incentive check of $14,067 from the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund (CEEF) for its participation in the Energy Conscious Blueprint program.

Read the Rockfall Foundation’s latest e-newsletter

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 05:37:50 +0000

Read the Rockfall Foundation’s latest e-newsletter here::: http://bit.ly/cVUHst

State officials: Drivers must provide space for bicyclists

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 04:16:44 +0000

The Connecticut Department of Transportation (DOT) has launched its 2010 “Share the Road” campaign, highlighting the “3-feet” law that went into effect in late 2008, designed to provide a buffer zone for bicyclists. The goal of the campaign is to improve the safety of all travelers, including bicyclists, pedestrians and equestrians, through awareness and education.
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Dredging, plant removal recommended for town ponds

Christopher Zurcher — Wed, 01 Sep 2010 01:54:39 +0000

The Goff Brook Ponds need work, and the town can now start moving towards renewal of the treasured ponds after Director of Public Works and Town Engineer Michael Turner put together and presented a report on the status of the ponds during the August 16 Town Council meeting. via Dredging, plant removal recommended for town
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N.J. DEP toughens sulfur rules to improve air quality

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 21:24:45 +0000

A new maximum sulfur content standard of 500 parts per million for home heating oil and lighter grade fuel oil will take effect on July 1, 2014, and a second phase of more stringent standards to reduce sulfur to 15 parts per million will take effect on July 1, 2016. That is down from current
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Celebrate the champions of Long Wharf Preserve, 6:30-9:30 p.m. Sept. 15

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 20:30:39 +0000

The New Haven Land Trust invites you to celebrate the champions of Long Wharf Preserve and view its new long-range preserve plan at a celebration taking place from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 15, at Leon's Restaurant, 501 Long Wharf Drive, New Haven 06511.

UConn seeks wildlife or fisheries toxicologist

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 20:18:03 +0000

The University of Connecticut is seeking a wildlife or fisheries ecotoxicologist with a Ph.D. for a full-time professorship on the Storrs campus. Visit http://careers.wildlife.org/c/job.cfm?vnet=0&site_id=8764&jb=7116768 for more information.

Environmental Groups Sue EPA On Cape Cod Pollution

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:39:16 +0000

The Conservation Law Foundation and the Coalition for Buzzards Bay say excess nitrogen from septic systems, stormwater runoff and wastewater treatment can cause algae blooms that choke off oxygen that marine life needs. EPA spokeswoman Paula Ballentine says the agency is committed to reducing nitrogen levels. via Environmental Groups Sue EPA On Cape Cod Pollution
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State OKs Millstone permit; anti-nuke group pledges fight

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:33:53 +0000

DEP spells out requirements as coalition charges ‘collusion’ The state Department of Environmental Protection on Monday approved the renewal of a controversial water-discharge permit for the Millstone nuclear power complex in Waterford, but the Connecticut Coalition Against Millstone vowed to fight the move, saying it will assure the destruction of the Niantic River winter flounder.
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20 minutes with Aspectuck Land Trust’s David Brant

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:13:10 +0000

20 minutes with Aspectuck Land Trust’s David Brant | by Tom Henry, Fairfield Minuteman.

CT DPH Launches Environmental Health Tool

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 14:04:32 +0000

Connecticut’s Environmental Public Health Tracking Network allows users to take a closer look at environmental health data to better protect the health of the people of Connecticut In continuing efforts to protect the health of the people of Connecticut from environmental hazards, the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) announced today the launch of its
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Unclaimed deposits could enhance state’s recycling infrastructure: CRRA

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:53:00 +0000

Recently you may have heard or read that the state isn’t taking in as much money from unclaimed deposits on plastic water bottles as some officials had hoped. In 2009 Connecticut expanded its bottle bill to put five-cent deposits on plastic water bottles, the same deposit Connecticut consumers pay on beer and soda bottles and cans. But where the bottlers and distributors keep the nickels from unredeemed beer and soda containers, the state would keep the unclaimed water deposits.

New microbe discovered eating oil spill in Gulf

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 13:11:43 +0000

WASHINGTON – A newly discovered type of oil-eating microbe is suddenly flourishing in the Gulf of Mexico. Scientists discovered the new microbe while studying the underwater dispersion of millions of gallons of oil spilled into the Gulf following the explosion of BP’s Deepwater Horizon drilling rig. And the microbe works without significantly depleting oxygen in
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DEP approves Millstone water permit

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 02:37:43 +0000

The state Department of Environmental Protection has renewed the water discharge permit for the Millstone nuclear power complex in Waterford but is requiring the plant operator to take steps to protect aquatic life and to weigh alternatives to the site's current water-cooling system.

Transit measures are self-defeating

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 02:08:44 +0000

The MTA wants to eliminate a 2 percent discount on people who buy monthly tickets, the 4 percent discount for people who also use the MetroCard, invalidate 10-trip tickets after three months, rather than the year duration that exists now, and invalidate round-trip tickets after seven days instead of three months. via Transit measures are
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DOT overrode Blumenthal, kept firm on hire list

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 02:06:50 +0000

STAMFORD — As the $65 million first phase of the Stamford Urban Transitway nears completion, the project’s general contractor is due to stand trial next month in an alleged fraud scheme to overcharge for work on a New York shopping mall. via DOT overrode Blumenthal, kept firm on hire list – StamfordAdvocate. More on the
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Quarry Head, Harrison Smith Preserves restored to pre-colonial splendor

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 02:02:34 +0000

Quarry Head and Harrison Smith Preserves have been restored to their pre-colonial splendor — with the exception of drill holes and long flat planes on the granite ledges — and serve as a prime locale for scenic hiking. via Quarry Head, Harrison Smith Preserves restored to pre-colonial splendor – Connecticut Post.

Connecticut recognized as top green power purchaser

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 01:58:14 +0000

For the third year in a row, the State of Connecticut has been named one of only three states making EPA’s top 50 list of national Green Power Partners, ranking 36th on that list. This year, Connecticut will be purchasing more than 107 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of green power, which is enough green power to meet 17 percent of the state’s purchased electricity use

2010 CT Folk Festival and Green Expo Sept. 11, New Haven

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 01:55:47 +0000

The 2010 CT Folk Festival and Green Expo offers more choices than ever, with exhibitors, educators, vendors, workshops and plenty of activities for kids. Our World Stage will feature music by Red Molly, Rob Messore, the Professors of Bluegrass, and the finalists in our CT Folk Songwriting Contest: Brian Dolzani, Sam Chase, Rebecca Pronsky, Walter
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More Sophisticated Rigs Drill Deeper Still for Oil

Christopher Zurcher — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 01:42:56 +0000

The $3 billion rig Perdido can pump oil from dozens of wells nearly two miles under the sea while simultaneously drilling new ones. It is part of a wave of ultra-deep platforms — all far more sophisticated than the rig that was used to drill the ill-fated BP well that blew up in April

Sierra Club Endorses Richard Blumenthal for the U.S. Senate

Christopher Zurcher — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 21:40:14 +0000

The Connecticut Chapter of the Sierra Club, in conjunction with the national Sierra Club, announces its endorsement of candidate Richard Blumenthal for election as U.S. senator from Connecticut.

AG, DEP Win Injunction To Stop Illegal Logging

Christopher Zurcher — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 20:22:54 +0000

Connecticut Attorney General Richard Blumenthal won a court injunction today that stops illegal logging in multiple Connecticut towns where extensive unpermitted tree harvesting – enough timber to build about 75 houses – has already caused significant environmental damage.

Pennsylvania coal plants face big changes under planned EPA pollution-control rules

Christopher Zurcher — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 19:45:22 +0000

Pennsylvanians would benefit the most, said the EPA's Sam Napolitano, director of the Clean Air Markets Division. That is because of a high population base and potentially large emission reductions here and upwind.

Bridgeport Community Land Trust Annual Garden Contest 2010

Christopher Zurcher — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 17:18:41 +0000

Judging to take place 9 am-11 am on Thursday, Sept. 2, by members of the Greater Bridgeport Men's Garden Club. Please have a representative available to open your garden gate and to give a presentation. Awards Ceremony at 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 18, at the picnic grove opposite the main bathhouse at Seaside Park.

CT eyes Mass. renewable energy bill

Christopher Zurcher — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:19:02 +0000

Connecticut may get a boost from Massachusetts in meeting the Nutmeg State’s renewable energy goals, as the Massachusetts state Senate is trying again to pass a bill supporters say will streamline the location of wind power facilities in Massachusetts, The Associated Press reports. By 2020, the Connecticut Department of Public Utility Control wants 23 percent
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CT Law Tribune Editorial: Buffer Madness

Christopher Zurcher — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 16:15:22 +0000

For years, the Connecticut General Assembly has refereed a senseless annual brawl over wetland buffers. The homebuilders man the battle lines on one side and the Birkenstock-clad enviro-types gather up in a gaggle on the other. It is always an ugly confrontation. The issue is this: Should Connecticut mandate the protection of wetlands and watercourses
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‘Artificial turf contains carcinogens and toxins’: Study

Christopher Zurcher — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 15:28:36 +0000

BACK TO SCHOOL SPECIAL: Synthetic turf fields have been installed at schools across the country, and the findings of a new artificial turf study show that these fields contain chemical carcinogens, neurotoxins, respiratory toxins and skin and eye irritants. The Synthetic Turf Council says that there are more than 5,500 artificial turf fields installed nationwide. Due to the growth of this industry and because so many students play on artificial turf, the Connecticut DEP studied potential health effects of the fields and the results are reported on here.

American Farmland Trust seeks Project Director for New England office in CT

Christopher Zurcher — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 14:51:05 +0000

American Farmland Trust (AFT) seeks an energetic self-starter to direct the Working Lands Alliance (WLA) in Connecticut. A diverse coalition of individuals and more than 200 businesses and organizations established in 2000 and dedicated to preserving Connecticut’s remaining working lands, WLA has raised over $50 million in public funding for farmland protection and successfully championed
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