PUBLICATIONS

How Will Rapanos Affect Us?”

By Brian Considine – Michigan Bar Journal – November 2006 Michigan is one of two states (the other being New Jersey) that has assumed administration of Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA).1 In comparison to other states that have separate state and federal wetland permitting programs, Michigan’s assumption of the 404 program streamlines the permitting process for property owners in Michigan. However, as a result of the Supreme Court’s recent decision in Rapanos,2 federal and state regulators are scrambling to figure out its impact on their respective wetland programs. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the United States Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) have jointly issued interim guidance directing their agents and districts on what steps to take in light of Rapanos, and a final guidance document is in progress. This article describes Michigan’s 404 Program and discusses possible effects of the Rapanos decision on the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality’s (MDEQ’s) administration of the 404 program. http://www.michbar.org/journal/pdf/pdf4article1076.pdf

Delaware Estuary Report

The Partnership for the Delaware Estuary has released its “State of the Estuary Report” (PDF file) in collaboration with EPA, the Delaware River Basin Commission, other agencies, universities, and its 21-member Science and Technical Advisory Committee.  The 36-page report assesses the environmental status and trends of select natural resources in the Delaware Estuary’s watershed, pinpoints what resources need attention, how to improve monitoring capabilities, and how to prepare for new challenges like climate change. To learn more about the report, go to www.DelawareEstuary.org To view the report, go to: http://www.delawareestuary.org/pdf/EstuaryNews/2008/SummerNews08.pdf

Great Lakes Regional Collaboration Habitat/Wetlands Initiative: A Progress Report and Call to Action

A publication of the Great Lakes Regional Collaboration is now available online. This report describes recent progress since early 2006 to protect and restore wetlands and other habitat across the Great Lakes basin. The report addresses habitat in general, but focuses on wetlands as a particular habitat that has unique stresses and values, and which has been a focal point for collaboration activity. It describes progress in collaboration as well as progress in on-the-ground protection and restoration. The report further describes new tools that have been developed to support our collaborative restoration efforts by providing easy access to information about potential restoration projects and funding sources.  (June 2008) This report can be found at: http://glrc.us/documents/CallToAction06-19-2008.pdf

Virginia Water Quality Report

Richmond-Times Dispatch – June 16, 2008 State officials have released a six-year study of water quality in Virginia. The state Department of Environmental Quality plans a news conference on June 16th to release the report. It contains an assessment of water quality from January 2001 to December 2006, along with a statewide list of impaired waters. The news conference is scheduled for 11 a.m. at the department's Piedmont Regional Office in Glen Allen. For more information and a link to this draft assessment, visit: http://www.deq.state.va.us/wqa/305b2008.html

Twine Line, Publication of the Ohio Sea Grant The Ohio Sea Grant just published its winter 2008 issue of Twine Line. In this issue they address the following topics: Ohio Sea Grant Technology Uses Algae, Sound Waves to Remove Mercury from Lake Erie Sediment; GLROC: New Sea Grant Consortium to Coordinate Regional Research and Outreach; Sea Grant Extension Broadens Outreach Via On Line Discussion Board New Lake Erie Shipwrecks Web Site Promotes Education and Conservation, among other topics. For a direct link to this publication, go to: http://www.ohioseagrant.osu.edu/_documents/twineline/v30i1.pdf

State Wetland Protection: Status, Trends & Model Approaches The Environmental Law Institute has released a final report of a 50-state study that described and analyzed seven "core" components of state wetland programs: state laws, regulations, and programs; monitoring and assessment; restoration programs and activities; water quality standards; public-private partnerships; coordination among state and federal agencies; and education and outreach activities. This report focuses on status and trends, model programs, and summary data for all 50 states. http://www.elistore.org/reports_detail.asp?ID=11279

Environmental Law Institute’s Multi-Year Study on the "Core" Components of State Wetland Programs

State Wetland Program Evaluation: Phase I State Wetland Program Evaluation: Phase II State Wetland Program Evaluation: Phase III State Wetland Program Evaluation: Phase IV ELI Study of State Wetland Programs http://www.eli.org/Program_Areas/state_wetlands.cfm

Putting A Price On Riparian Corridors As Water Treatment Facilities By Ann L. Riley, Ph.D., Watershed and River Restoration Advisor, San Francisco Bay Regional Water Quality Control Board, Oakland, CA, Jan. 2008 -- The monetary value of natural riparian environments that provide water quality treatment functions by processing nutrients, storing sediment, moderating temperatures, and other services can be estimated by calculating the costs associated with the construction of brick and mortar water treatment plants built to achieve similar functions. For a direct link to this discussion paper, go to: http://www.aswm.org/putting_price_riparian_corridors_riley_21108.pdf

Smart Watershed Benchmarking Tool   The Center for Watershed Protectin has released a new tool on CD available in PDF and workbook (CD) versions. Using lessons learned from around the country, this self-assessment tool helps local program managers make better decisions on watershed restoration priorities to maximize the performance of staff and financial resources. For more information, visit: http://www.cwp.org/

Gulf of Maine Council/NOAA Habitat Restoration Partnership Final Report: Saltmarsh Restoration Monitoring Near Pemaquid Beach , New Harbor, Maine December 5, 2007 -- The Pemaquid Salt Marsh is a 6-acre back-barrier marsh located behind Pemaquid Beach in Bristol , Maine . Prior to 2005, the marsh had limited saltwater input due to roadway culverts that restricted tidal flow, which was resulting in the marsh transforming into a brackish wetland. The Pemaquid Salt Marsh Restoration Project was a culvert replacement designed to diminish undesirable brackish plant species and increase native salt marsh vegetation by restoring natural tidal flow. Post-restoration monitoring results from 2005-2007 indicate that there have been substantial favorable changes in the marsh. For a direct link to this report, go to: http://www.pemaquidwatershed.org/images/Synopsis_PostRestoration.pdf  For a link to the project description and Pemaquid Watershed Association's website, visit: http://www.pemaquidwatershed.org/waterquality.html

Vegetation Classification and Mapping of New River Gorge National River , West Virginia Authors: Vanderhorst, J. P., J. Jeuck, and S. C. Gawler. 2007 -- Technical Report NPS/NER/NRTR-2007/092.  National Park Service.  Philadelphia , PA. A vegetation classification and map were developed by the West Virginia Natural Heritage Program for New River Gorge National River following the standards of the U.S. Geological Survey / National Park Service Vegetation Mapping Program. For a direct link to this report, go to: http://www.nps.gov/nero/science/FINAL/NERI_veg_map/NERI_veg_map.htm  For questions and comments, contact Jim Vanderhorst at the West Virginia Natural Heritage Program at jimvanderhorst@wvdnr.gov

Classification and Conservation Assessment of High Elevation Wetland Communities in the Allegheny Mountains of West Virginia Authors: E.A. Byers, J. P. Vanderhorst, and B. P. Streets. 2007. West Virginia Natural Heritage Program, Wildlife Resources Section, West Virginia Division of Natural Resources. Elkins, WV. Wetland communities above 730 meters (2400 feet) elevation in the Allegheny Mountain region of West Virginia are characterized by exceptionally high biodiversity and conservation value. A new ecological system for the High Allegheny Wetlands and 41 wetland associations were classified, ranked for conservation purposes, and published in the National Vegetation Classification. For a direct link to this publication, go to: http://www.wvdnr.gov/publications/PDFFiles/High%20Allegheny%20Wetlands-web.pdf

ELI Publishes Report on Exploring Opportunities to Integrate State Wildlife Action Plans with State Wetland Mitigation and Restoration Programs ELI has published a report from a workshop: Explore Opportunities to Integrate the State Wildlife Action Plans into Improved Wetland Conservation and Restoration, including audio recordings, PowerPoint presentations, and related documents, are available on ELI’s website at http://www.eli.org/pdf/joint_meeting/ELI%20Workshop%20Final%20Report.pdf

2007 UHN Stormwater Center Report Now Online The University of New Hampshire Stormwater Center 2007 Annual Report is now available online: http://ciceet.unh.edu/unh_stormwater_report_2007/index.php Produced in partnership with the Cooperative Institute for Coastal and Estuarine Environmental Technology (CICEET), this publication contains performance data on the ability of stormwater treatment systems to treat water quality and manage water quantity. To manage stormwater in a way that prevents flooding, protects infrastructure, and safeguards human and environmental health, coastal communities require science-based, independent information on the performance of stormwater treatment systems. The CICEET-sponsored UNH Stormwater Center is unique in its ability to conduct such evaluations in a side-by-side setting. Its field site is designed ot test a range of stormwater treatment systems, from lowimpact development approaches to manufactured devices. This report is one of several tools the enter uses to communicate the results of its research to coastal communities interested in designing stormwater projects that protect water resources and improve resilience in a time of rapid development and more frequent and intense storms. In response to stakeholder feedback, the 2007 report includes information on the land use settings in which the evaluated systems are typically deployed, the type of application to which they are best suited, installation costs, and maintenance. If you have a suggestion for improving next year's report, please take a few minutes to fill out this online survey: http://survey.unh.edu/surveycat/surveys/survey406_unhsc2007.htm

Salt Marsh Booklet Released by Gulf of Maine Council Salt marshes remove pollution from the water, provide food and shelter for fish and birds, protect the shoreline from erosion, and perform other valuable roles in the ecosystem. However, 75 percent of salt marshes in New Brunswick and Nova Scotia and 37 percent in New England states have been destroyed. A new booklet, Salt Marshes in the Gulf of Maine: Human Impacts, Habitat Restoration, and Long-term Change Analysis offers a reader-friendly look at the ecology of these vital coastal wetlands and ways to bring them back to health. The booklet can be downloaded in PDF format, and hard copies are available upon request. For more information and to obtain the booklet go to, http://www.gulfofmaine.org/saltmarsh/

Dam Removal and the Wetlands Regulations in MA This document, available on Mass DEP's website, provides guidance for conservation commissions and the Department of Environmental Protection, as the permitting authorities, in the application of the Massachusetts Wetlands Protection Act and its regulations. For more information, obtain a copy of this document at: http://www.mass.gov/dep/water/laws/policies.htm#dam

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NEWS

JUNE

ND: Judge upholds ND anti-corporate farming law

By Dale Wetzel – Bemidji Pioneer – June 16, 2009 North Dakota's anti-corporate farming law does not violate the U.S. Constitution, even though similar laws have been invalidated by federal courts in Nebraska and South Dakota, a state district judge says. Southeast District Judge James Bekken's ruling also gave a partial victory to Crosslands Inc., a nonprofit organization that owns land in three North Dakota counties, saying the state law cannot be used to force the sale of about 1,700 acres managed as a wildlife preserve. For full story, go to: http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/event/apArticle/id/D98R5NQ02/

CA: California Receives $2.8 Million in Economic Recovery Funds to Improve Water Quality, Create Jobs

Contact: Francisco Arcaute – EPA News Release – June 15, 2009 In an effort to improve water quality and create jobs, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has awarded $2.8 Million to the California State Water Resources Control Board under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. A total of $39 million will be awarded nationally to states for Water Quality Management Planning (WQMP) grants, which will keep and create jobs to help prevent water pollution and protect human health and the environment. For full press release, go to: http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/d985312f6895893b852574ac005f1e40/aa4 cb87b9de5b9d2852575d6004f3e6a!OpenDocument

WV: EPA Announces $15.6 Million Recovery Act Funds for Water Infrastructure Projects in West Virginia to Boost the Economy, Create Jobs and Protect Public Health

Contact Bonnie Smith – EPA News Release – June 15, 2009 In a move that stands to create jobs, boost local economies, improve aging water infrastructure and protect human health and the environment for the people in the State of West Virginia, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $15.6 million to the West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources. This new infusion of money provided by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 will help the state and local governments finance many of the overdue improvements to water projects that are essential to protecting public health and the environment across the state. For full press release, go to: http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/d985312f6895893b852574ac005f1e40/9c1623 bb7a6a6e8b852575d60052b6c1!OpenDocument

OH: Ohio receives more than $2 million in economic recovery funds to improve water quality

Contact: Phillippa Cannon – EPA News Release – June 15, 2009 In an effort to improve water quality, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has awarded $2,228,800 to Ohio EPA under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009. A total of $39 million will be awarded nationally to states for Water Quality Management Planning (WQMP) grants that will keep and create jobs to help prevent water pollution and protect human health and the environment. For full press release, go to: http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/d985312f6895893b852574ac005f1e40/ab2343a 692a02669852575d6006f4a7c!OpenDocument

MA: EPA Announces More Than $185 Million in Recovery Act Funds for Massachusetts Water Infrastructure Projects

Contact: David Deegan – EPA News Release – June 15, 2009 EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson today held a joint press conference with Massachusetts Public Officials to announce more than $185 million in Recovery Act funding to improve drinking water quality and waste water infrastructure across the state. For full press release, go to: http://yosemite.epa.gov/opa/admpress.nsf/d985312f6895893b852574ac005f1e40/0ff43c22cce 30178852575d600602a4c!OpenDocument

CA: New plan for housing on S.F. Bay is reckless

By David Lewis – San Francisco Chronicle – June 14, 2009 Rampant development had shrunk San Francisco Bay by one-third before a citizen revolution halted the destruction 50 years ago, and now the whole region cherishes the natural treasure we've protected and restored. But every few years another misguided developer proposes to fill in the bay, and the latest arrogant plan is a whopper. For full story, go to: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/06/13/INSV183RFN.DTL

FL: CF promises ‘stewardship’ in new mine

By Greg Martin – Charlotte Sun Herald – June 14, 2009 CF Industries, on its next phosphate mine, will be required to preserve as much of the natural streams and wetlands as feasible and replace those resources destroyed acre-for-acre, according to a Florida Department of Environmental Protection official. And CF Industries, which is planning to strip out 1,475 acres of wetlands on its 7,500-acre proposed South Pasture Extension mine, understands the importance of following those guidelines, according to Richard Ghent, CF director of community affairs. For full story, go to: http://www.sunnewspapers.net/articles/pnnews.aspx?NewsID=438996&a=newsarchive2/061409/ch1.htm&pnpg=0

CA: 'Saltworks' plan - that's smart growth

By Peter Calthorpe – San Francisco Chronicle – June 14, 2009 After too many decades of sprawl, many people are embracing a much different approach to urban planning: smart growth. This simple, environmentally sound approach to growth would put new homes close to the Bay Area's job centers in mixed-use, walkable communities served by transit. I believe one of the most compelling smart growth proposals is the "Saltworks 50-50 Balanced Plan" in Redwood City. Today, this privately owned site is a 1,400-acre moonscape, a century-old industrial salt "factory without a roof" that could continue to make salt indefinitely. For full story, go to: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/06/13/IN82181TJH.DTL

TX: Outdoors: No ducking the hard truth

By Shannon Tompkins – Houston Chronicle – June 14, 2009 A mama mottled duck trailed by eight black/yellow fuzzballs bobbled and chugged on the choppy water near the mouth of the Trinity River last Tuesday morning. Despite a running current and stiff wind, the furiously paddling little ducklings kept up just fine with mom, who almost certainly was leading the recently hatched bundles of feathers to a nearby freshwater flat, where the kids could gorge and grow on a high-protein diet of minnows, scuds, insects and maybe a stray crawfish or two while the senna bean, bullrush and other aquatic vegetation provided cover and escape from predators. For full story, go to: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/6477735.html

NY: Hearing on tap on wetlands proposal

By John Davis – Poughkeepsie Journal – June 14, 2009 Residents can comment on a proposed local wetlands protection law at 7 p.m. Monday in town hall. The law is intended to ensure wetlands and other bodies of water in town are adequately protected. The benefits of added wetlands protection are flood prevention, ground water recharge, erosion and sediment control and preservation of plant and animal habitats. For full story, go to: http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/article/20090614/NEWS01/906140343/1006/news01

WI: Mother Nature's mess

By Helen Clark – Herald Times Reporter– June 14, 2009 The same rainstorm that a year ago washed away houses on the shores of Lake Delton also left homeless many of the ducks, cranes and fish that frequent the Little Manitowoc River wetland. The storm hit Manitowoc on June 12, 2008, dumping about 4 inches of rain on the city and raising the river 4½ feet in less than 24 hours, forcing heavy rocks off the riverbed and onto its banks. Homes and streets also were reported flooded. For full story, go to: http://www.htrnews.com/article/20090614/MAN0101/906140440

LA: Dredged mud can save Louisiana coast, state says

By Mark Schleifstein – Times Picayune – June 13, 2009 Each year, the Army Corps of Engineers and private companies dredge about 63 million tons of dirt from Louisiana's coastal areas, primarily to service the needs of shipping and petroleum interests. The corps constantly dredges the river to ensure ships can pass, and oil and gas companies cut and maintain canals to service their facilities and lay pipelines through Louisiana's fragile wetlands. For full story, go to: http://www.nola.com/news/index.ssf/2009/06/dredged_mud_can_save_louisiana.html

OH: $50K needed to open rare wetland site to public

By Steve Bennish – Dayton Daily News – June 12, 2009 Wanted: A $50,000 donation to enable a unique parkland to be opened to the general public. That’s what it will cost for Five Rivers MetroParks to install a trail and boardwalk system as part of the final stages to complete Woodman Fen, a green carpet of sedges, wildflowers and other native wetland plants sprouting from a groundwater-fed wetland. The fen, which dates to the last Ice Age, is the only one of its kind in Montgomery County. It is wedged between Woodman Drive and a residential neighborhood by Belmont Park. For full story, visit: http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/dayton-news/50k-needed-to-open-rare-wetland-site-to-public-159832.html?showComments=true

MD: Around the Park: SP girl's essay on bay grasses wins student Naturalist Award

By Leslie Hunt – The Capital – June 11, 2009 Alexandra Day, 16, of Severna Park, was one of 12 recipients of the American Museum of Natural History's Young Naturalist Award. The program challenges youngsters to embark on their own scientific investigations and to document their research, observations, and analyses of the natural world. Alexandra submitted a 2,500-word essay titled "Chesapeake Bay Grasses as a Solution to Nutrient Pollution." The essay included her research findings and analysis on the grasses, their impact on the Chesapeake Bay and generic historical facts about the country's largest estuary. For full story, go to: http://www.hometownannapolis.com/news/csp/2009/06/11-31/Around-the-Park-SP-girls-essay-on-bay-grasses-wins-student-Naturalist-Award.html For a list of the 2009 winners, go to: http://www.amnh.org/nationalcenter/youngnaturalistawards/2009/finalists.html

IA: County looks at wetland mitigation

Independence Bulletin Journal – June 10, 2009 Buchanan County may soon acquire property east of Fairbank to convert into wetlands. The move comes as the county looks to comply with legal mandates for wetland mitigation as the D22 road project between Independence and Jesup moves ahead. According to Buchanan County Engineer Brian Keierleber, crossroad culverts that are being updated as part of the project have been classified by the state as “wetlands.” For full story, go to: http://communitynewspapergroup.com/articles/2009/06/10/bulletin-journal/news/doc4a2fbfd07f914029577039.txt

VA: New conservation area to explore

By Mark Battista – Chesterfield Observer – June 10, 2009 Chesterfield County residents now have a new site to hike and explore. Named the John J. Radcliffe Appomattox River Conservation Area, the site bears the name of its former owner. Though only 80 acres, the land contains interesting habitats, geology, history and wildlife. This purchase marks the third conservation area to be acquired and managed by the Chesterfield Parks and Recreation Department. The Dutch Gap and Brown and Williamson sites are the other two. For full story, go to: http://www.chesterfieldobserver.com/news/2009/0610/home/004.html

OH: Granger residents hear wetlands plans

By Ariel Marks – Akron Ohio Community News – June 10, 2009 Plans to develop a Wetlands Mitigation Bank on a 150-acre parcel of land in central Granger Township resulted in a packed house at the Administration Building June 8. In response to a request from the Granger Township Board of Trustees, Vince Messerly, the landowner and president of the Ohio Wetlands Foundation (OWF), attended the meeting to answer residents’ questions and concerns about the project. Messerly said he purchased the land in December 2006 with the intention of restoring approximately 90 acres of wetlands, and he recently applied to the Army Corps of Engineers for a permit to go forward on the project. For full story, go to: http://www.akron.com/akron-ohio-community-news.asp?aID=5652

WA: Council delays critical areas ordinance

By Tara Nelson – The Northern Light – June 10, 2009 Following heated testimony from landowners, developers and environmental groups on Monday, Blaine City Council voted down a critical areas ordinance (CAO) 4-3 that would increase buffer zones around wetlands, and scheduled a work session to amend the ordinance in what some councilors called an attempt to balance environmental protections with property rights. The work session is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Monday, June 15 at council chambers. The hearing is open to the public but public comment will not be allowed at that time. Council members Jason Overstreet, Scott Dodd, John Liebert and Bonnie Onyon voted no on the ordinance, citing that the new regulations were overly cumbersome for current landowners who might wish to subdivide their property compared to the rules in place when they purchased it. For full story, go to: http://www.thenorthernlight.com/news/article.exm/2009-06-10_council_delays_critical_areas_ordinance

FL: Power shift might affect Florida water wars

By Kevin Spear – Orlando Sentinel – June 10, 2009 The board that watches over water and wetlands policy for Central Florida is preparing to give up a big share of its authority and a measure of public comment on some of the most controversial issues under its jurisdiction. It's part of a new law passed by the state Legislature that strips state water-management boards of their role in granting permits to those who want to tap water supplies or to destroy wetlands. The board of the St. Johns River Water Management District now rules over water policy in an area that extends from Vero Beach, across most of Central Florida and to the Georgia state line. Members routinely have public hearings before voting on the often-contentious issues before them. For full story, go to: http://www.orlandosentinel.com/news/local/orl-florida-water-law-dispute-061009,0,1193636.story

MI: Michigan Promotes Clean Boats, Clean Waters through Aquatic Invasive Species Awareness Week

Contact:  Robert McCann – Michigan DEQ – June 10, 2009 Governor Jennifer M. Granholm has proclaimed June 13-21, 2009, as Aquatic Invasive Species (AIS) Awareness Week to raise awareness about the need for citizens to take action to stop new introductions and control the spread of AIS.  Michigan is defined by t he Great Lakes and its vast inland waters, which draw millions of tourists and recreational users every year, making it critical that they are protected from the growing threat of AIS. For AIS Awareness Week information, the Governor's proclamation, event listings, activities and more, visit the OGL's AIS Web site at www.michigan.gov/deqaquaticinvasives ; or contact the OGL at 517‑335‑4056.

GA: Corps of Engineers to ease permit rules

WBTV Savannah Morning News – June 10, 2009 The Savannah district of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is taking the initiative to be the first to streamline permits for publicly funded projects by increasing the threshold for impact to wetlands. The Environmental Protection Agency and at least 16 environmental groups fear the Corps might jeopardize ecologically important streams and wetlands to speed up projects such as bridges, roads and schools for the sake of economic recovery. For full story, go to: http://www.wbtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=10507381 For a related story, go to: http://chronicle.augusta.com/stories/latest/lat_519938.shtml

CA: Wetlands mosquito spraying starts

By City News Service – June 9, 2009 Vector Control officials on Tuesday began using a helicopter to drop larvicide on about 1,000 acres of heavily vegetated areas in the San Diego area to reduce mosquito breeding. The areas include Carmel Creek, the San Diego Polo Grounds, Derby Downs, the eastern part of San Elijo Lagoon and fresh water portion of Penasquitos Lagoon. For full story, go to: http://www.delmartimes.net/news/257781-wetlands-mosquito-spraying-starts

FL: Swamp-seeing down south

By REVATHI MURUGAPPAN – The Star – June 6, 2009 Florida’s Everglades National Park is one of the largest sub-tropical wetlands in the world where alligators abound. America’s southern state of Florida probably draws millions of tourists yearly, thanks largely to Orlando’s Walt Disney World and Miami’s white coral South Beach (SoBe) area where the thumping nightlife continues till dawn. Not only is sunny Florida a haven for retirees and beach bums, it is one huge outdoor playground for all ages except during hurricane season when the mighty winds can cause major destruction. For full story, go to: http://thestar.com.my/lifestyle/story.asp?file=/2009/6/6/lifetravel/3984010&sec=lifetravel

WI: Wisconsin Wetlands Association Announces 100 Wetland Gems

By Katie Beilfuss – Wisconsin Wetlands Association – June 1, 2009 Today, with a backdrop of Cherokee Marsh and the Yahara River and amidst calls of Sandhill cranes, Wisconsin Wetlands Association announced its statewide list of 100 Wetland Gems.   “Wisconsin is lucky to be home to thousands of acres of wetlands, and we hope these Wetland Gems will help the people of Wisconsin get to know the wonderful diversity and extraordinary beauty of these natural communities,” said Becky Abel, Wisconsin Wetlands Association Executive Director. Wetland Gems are high quality habitats that represent the wetland riches—marshes, swamps, bogs, fens, and more—that historically made up a quarter of Wisconsin’s landscape.  Located throughout the state of Wisconsin, the Wetland Gems are high-quality representatives of each type of wetland found in each part of the state.  For more information and full press release, go to: http://www.wisconsinwetlands.org/gems.htm

MS: U.S. Designates Upper Mississippi River Floodplains a Wetland of International Importance

Contact: Vanessa Kauffman – US Fish & Wildlife Service – June 1, 2009 Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar today announced approval of portions of the Upper Mississippi River, including the Midwest's largest national wildlife refuge, as a Wetland of International Importance. In making the announcement, Secretary Salazar said, "The ecological, social, and economic values of the Upper Mississippi River make it one of the crown jewels of this nation's wetlands. This marks the 27th U.S. wetland designated under the Convention on Wetlands. For full press release, go to: http://www.fws.gov/news/NewsReleases/showNews.cfm?newsId=9D11D784-E603-DD46-9250C5D6FC03A161

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May

OR: The Oregon Rapid Wetland Assessment Protocol

The Oregon Rapid Wetland Assessment Protocol (ORWAP) is ready to use for assessing wetlands in Oregon.  ORWAP will be used primarily for assessing wetlands and developing compensatory mitigation plans for state Removal-Fill Law and federal Section 404 permit applications, but was designed to be suitable for other purposes, as well.  ORWAP is suitable for assessing all types of wetlands statewide; thus, it will fill the gap in areas where an HGM Guidebook is not available (HGM guidebooks have been developed for tidal wetlands and for two wetland subclasses in the Willamette Valley).  The Oregon Department of State Lands initiated ORWAP development with funding assistance from EPA Region 10.  This has been an interagency effort—wetland specialists with EPA, the Portland District Corps of Engineers and the Natural Resources Conservation Service and other agencies participated throughout the development process to ensure that ORWAP will meet their program needs.  Dr. Paul Adamus (Adamus Resource Assessment, Inc.) developed ORWAP with help from more than 100 individuals—private sector and public—who participated on technical advisory committees, assisted with field testing in over 220 wetlands statewide, provided expert knowledge about regional wetlands, developed supporting information, or provided peer review.  ORWAP is available from the Dept. of State Lands at:  http://oregonstatelands.us/DSL/WETLAND/or_wet_prot.shtml

GA: Southern Company, Environmental Partners Award Eight Wetland Restoration Grants Through Five Star Program

PRNewswire – May 28, 2009 Southern Company (NYSE: SO), the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, National Association of Counties and Wildlife Habitat Council today announced that eight new wetland, riparian and coastal conservation grants have been awarded in the Southeast through the Five Star Restoration Program. For full press release, go to: http://news.prnewswire.com/DisplayReleaseContent.aspx?ACCT=104&STORY=/ www/story/05-28-2009/0005033856&EDATE=

KS: In an effort to protect your tap, a natural solution

By Scott Rothschild – Lawrence Journal - May 26, 2009 Near a tributary in western Douglas County, an effort is under way to replicate nature to protect Clinton Lake and the water coming out of Lawrence faucets. During rains, water runs downhill across farmland, delivering sediment and pollutants into the tributary of Deer Creek, which eventually flows into Clinton Lake. For full story, go to:

NY: Citizen Action wants to end 'Pay to Play'

By Lauren Johnson – Legislative Gazette – May 26, 2009 A report entitled New Yorkers Pay When Big Money Plays: The Case for Public Financing of Elections was released today by Citizen Action of New York. The report analyzes how campaign contributions affect bills relating to policy areas such as dealing with ticket scalping, rent regulations, health care and wetlands: The group said campaign contributions made by wealthy corporations are preventing the passage of legislation that concerns the most important needs of the public. For full story, go to: http://www.legislativegazette.com/day_item.php?item=913

WV: Wetlands project to enhance learning

By Jillian E. Kesner – The Journal – May 25, 2009 A groundbreaking is planned this summer for a wetlands project two years in the making, with plans to have the habitat available for students in the fall, Sara Wuertenberg of the Eastern Panhandle Conservation District said. "We're hoping to break ground in July," she said. Officials with the project hope to conduct classes in the wetland by October. For full story, go to: http://www.journal-news.net/page/content.detail/id/520026.html?nav=5006

WI: Volunteers documenting ephemeral ponds in eastern Wisconsin

By Don Behm – Milwaukee Wisconsin Journal Sentinel – May 25, 2009 Jody Barbeau wades into a shallow pond in woods less than a mile from shoppers at Mayfair Mall and commuters on congested U.S. Highway 45 - to glimpse a bustling community of other creatures. Two mallard ducks cautiously paddle away from Barbeau, but there is no indication of aquatic life until he lifts a net out of the water. Reddish dots on the fabric are water mites, he said.A nearly transparent crustacean with a bulbous head is a male fairy shrimp, a relative of the lobster, said Barbeau, a biologist and volunteer pond monitor. They float belly up. For full story, go to: http://www.jsonline.com/news/wisconsin/46024042.html

FL: How gulf coast's wetlands mitigate the force of a hurricane

By Craig Pittman – St. Petersburg Times – May 24, 2009 Seven years ago, a coalition of Louisiana groups launched a save-our-coast campaign called "America's Wetland" with sponsors that ranged from the NFL's New Orleans Saints to the company that makes Tabasco sauce. The campaign began because they wanted to alert the public that Louisiana's coastal wetlands are disappearing at a rate of 25 square miles per year. The campaign picked up steam after Hurricane Katrina showed the vital role that those coastal wetlands play in blunting the force of such storms. For full story, go to: http://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/wetlands/article1003445.ece

OR: Ashland Council Considers Stream, Wetlands Ordinance

By Vickie Aldous – Mail Tribune – May 23, 2009 City residents who want to use riding lawn mowers to cut down blackberry bushes on creek-side property would have to buy a $907 permit under a proposed city ordinance. The City Council is considering new rules for protecting streams and wetlands within city limits. A proposed ordinance that would create protected buffer zones of up to 50 feet next to streams and wetlands could affect 1,800 tax lots because Ashland is laced with more than 20 streams and as many as 44 wetlands. Many activities still could go on within the buffer zones without the need for special permits. Maintaining an existing lawn with a push mower or a riding mower, landscaping with native plants and removing invasive vegetation with a push mower or weed-eater would be allowed. For full story, go to: http://www.mailtribune.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090523/NEWS/905230316

New Law Protects Vermont Wetlands By Kristin Carlson – WCAX News – May 22, 2009 “This is the Berlin pond and it’s famous for bird watching,” said Kim Greenwood of the Vermont Natural Resources Council. Walk around Berlin pond and there’s plenty of wildlife to spot, but this area is also well known because it’s a wetland. “You can see those shrubby plants; that’s indicative of a wetland and wetland species,” Greenwood explained. Wetlands help stabilize the shore, filter drinking water and provide wildlife and fish habitat. But they can also spark controversy. The VNRC sued to reclassify wetlands for stricter control. The group lost its case but the court also ruled the state needed a new way of classifying wetlands, forcing everyone back to the drawing board. For full story, go to: http://www.wcax.com/Global/story.asp?S=10404936

MN: More teeth in penalties for ATVers who trash wetlands

By David Shaffer – Star Tribune – May 22, 2009 All-terrain-vehicle riders who destroy wetlands in Minnesota face tougher criminal penalties, a year-long ban on riding and, if caught a second time, seizure and forfeiture of their vehicles under a measure signed into law Friday by Gov. Tim Pawlenty. Jim Konrad, the state Department of Natural Resources enforcement director, said conservation officers probably will seize only a few ATVs each year but hopes the enhanced penalties will deter the worst offenders. For full story, go to: http://www.startribune.com/politics/state/45881082.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqy P4O:DW3ckUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUnciatkEP7DhUsl

NY: Setting the stage for conservation

By Willow Belden – Queens Chronicle – May 21, 2009 New York City used to have over 300,000 acres of wetlands; today, less than one-tenth remain, due to development projects that have taken place over the past 150 years. Various federal and state laws regulate development in wetland areas, but there are gaps in the rules, which means many of the city’s marshy areas fall through the cracks. To try to close the regulatory loopholes, the City Council recently passed a bill requiring that the city identify and document all remaining wetlands and develop a comprehensive conservation strategy for them. The goal is to prevent further net loss of wetlands in the city. For full story, go to: http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20318947&BRD=2731&PAG=461& dept_id=574907&rfi=6

FL: Civic activist tries hand at filmmaking

By Kenneth Knight – Northeast News & Tribune – May 20, 2009 Terry Neal, a well-known guardian of River Hills Drive and the other canopied streets that crisscross this neighborhood, has taken on a new role as a documentary filmmaker. The debut of Neal's documentary, "Orange Lake - Nature's Beauty," begins at 7 p.m. Thursday at Temple Terrace Community Church, 210 Inverness Ave. in Temple Terrace. Neal is making a presentation to the Temple Terrace Preservation Society. "This is what I had hoped for," said Neal, who serves as president of the Temple Crest Civic Association. "I didn't expect there would be a screening at Cannes," he said in jest, referring to the annual film festival held in southern France. For full story, go to: http://northeast2.tbo.com/content/2009/may/20/ne-civic-activist-tries-hand-at-filmmaking/

VA: New coalition's goal: Speed up the cleanup for the Bay

By Scott Harper – Virginian-Pilot – May 20, 2009 More than 50 environmental groups from Virginia to Pennsylvania are banding together to push for tougher, speedier actions in cleaning up the Chesapeake Bay. The Chesapeake Bay Coalition will officially launch itself and its inaugural campaign, Choose Clean Water, at a news conference today on Capitol Hill. Its members have been organizing and talking for nearly a year and already are lobbying government officials. For full story, go to: http://hamptonroads.com/2009/05/new-coalition-push-quicker-cleanup-chesapeake-bay

IA: Trumpeter swans settle in at Cardinal Marsh

By Sara Daehn – Cresco Times Plain Dealer – May 19, 2009 A small crowd watched last week as two trumpeter swans were introduced to their new home. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources released the 11-month old female and male swans at Cardinal Marsh May 13. The swans were donated by the City of Cannon Falls, Minn. More than 800 free flying trumpeter swans have been released into the wild throughout the state since 1995, including several at Cardinal Marsh over the years. The DNR’s goal is to have 30 free flying nesting pairs of trumpeter swans in Iowa by 2009. For full story, go to: http://www.crescotimes.com/news/x1549046227/Trumpeter-swans-settle-in-at-Cardinal-Marsh

WI: A push to protect Wisconsin's wetlands

By Carl Agnelly – WKOW TV – May 18, 2009 Monday may not have been the sunniest day on a canoe, but everyday is gorgeous for Dave Clutter along Cherokee Marsh. "It's good to be out here in all different kinds of conditions," said Clutter as he paddled with a group of a half dozen others on a blustery, cloudy, and drizzly afternoon. "It's a fun, diverse place, and for those that are in town that don't know the marsh, I'd certtainly encourage them to get out here," added Clutter, who recently joined the Friends of Cherokee Marsh group.  For full story, go to: http://www.wkowtv.com/Global/story.asp?S=10382370

ME: Tiny creatures find some big friends

By John Richardson – Portland Press Herald – May 16, 2009 State regulators have been protecting Maine's vernal pools for more than a year. Now, more communities and citizens are taking up the cause. As of this spring, 13 Maine communities have mobilized volunteers to help defend vernal pools by finding and mapping their locations. Residents of Topsham, Freeport, Windham, Scarborough and other towns tromped through woods and wetlands in recent weeks, around the same time wood frogs and salamanders were converging on the seasonal wetlands to breed and lay eggs. "It was such a great experience," said Angela Twitchell of Topsham, who surveyed pools with her 8-year-old son, Hayden Libby. For full story, go to: http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=256728&ac

MI: Proposal would test new wetlands programs

By Karen Bouffard – The Detroit News – May 11, 2009 Before the state ends its wetlands protection program, two lawmakers want to test the responsiveness of federal and county watchdogs under two pilot programs. Under the first one, protection of wetlands would be ceded to the federal government for two years in the Traverse City and Saginaw Bay areas. Under a second, responsibility of monitoring wetlands would be turned over to the government in an unnamed county. For full story, visit: http://www.detnews.com/article/20090511/METRO/905110377/

WA: “Green” Projects Survive

By Callie White – The Daily World – May 9, 2009 Funding for five environmental and recreational projects in the Twin Harbors survived the state budget process, but the state Legislature torpedoed four in what the Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program was calling a best-case scenario before the budget was drawn up. The Senate version of the budget would have cut funding from $100 million to $50 million, which would have affected an additional five projects. For full story, go to: http://www.thedailyworld.com/articles/2009/05/09/local_news/doc4a0526e0b6b6f058519173.txt

Regulators Eye General Permits to Address Growing CWA 'Universe' Inside EPA – May 1, 2009 EPA and state regulators are increasingly relying on broad, sometimes controversial Clean Water Act (CWA) general permits to address an ever-expanding universe of discharges requiring permits, most often in response to court mandates but also as a way to address pollution on a more comprehensive regional basis. “Honestly, when I look at the challenging issues” of expanded CWA jurisdiction, vessel discharges and stormwater, general permits make the most sense,” former Bush EPA water chief Benjamin Grumbles said April 23 at an American Law Institute-American Bar Association (ALI-ABA) conference on clean water law and regulation in Washington, DC. Reprinted with permission from Inside EPA. For full story, go to: http://www.aswm.org/news/regulators_050109_inside_epa.pdf

Archived News Return to top.

March

April

CT: Sewage contaminates Newtown wetlands

By Melissa Bruen – The News Times – April 17, 2009 Town officials Thursday blamed a burst or clogged pipe as the cause of a raw sewage discharge from the Meadowbrook Terrace complex on Route 302. Sewage from a pipe attached to one of the mobile homes in the Sugar Street complex overflowed onto grass, a private road and wetlands that abut the property, according to Rob Sibley, deputy director of the town's land use agency. About 20 acres of wetlands sit behind the complex, he said. For full story, go to: http://www.newstimes.com/latestnews/ci_12156353

MA: Department of Environmental Protection Checks Out Newton South Fields

By Ben Terris – Boston Globe – April 16, 2009 The Department of Environmental Protection visited the athletic fields at Newton South Thursday to determine whether plans for synthetic turf playing fields would violate the Wetlands Protection Act. After holding two public hearings the Newton Conservation Commission voted to permit the construction of these fields in February, and issued a list of conditions in early March to keep the nearby wetlands safe. But, a group of 12 Newton residents, represented by attorney Guive Mirfendereski, feel like the conditions do not go nearly far enough. For full story, go to: http://www.boston.com/yourtown/news/newton/2009/04/department_of_environmental_pr.html

WI: Manure Spills Into Wetlands and Kewaunee River

By Jenn Karlman – WBAY News – April 16, 2009 Thousands of gallons of manure spilled at a local farm, and some of it seeped into the Kewaunee River. Last Friday, a farmer in Kewaunee County notified the DNR that manure leaked out of his pit. The spill happened on the Stahl Farm on Tonet Road, near Thiry Daems Road and County Highway H. A majority of the manure is in a wetland. Already the DNR and the landowner have used hay bales to try and dam up the pipe, trying to prevent more waste from going downstream and causing more damage. "We immediately got a contractor to dig it out and pack it because we are stewards of the environment and were very concerned," landowner Lary Stahl said. For full story, go to: http://www.wbay.com/Global/story.asp?S=10198268

CA: Wetlands flourish: How to best enjoy the budding habitat

By Laura Petersen – Del Mar Times – April 16, 2009 The San Dieguito Wetlands restoration project, in its final year of construction, is flourishing with life, including more than 150 species of birds. "We thought birds and fish would come in rather quickly," said Steve Schroeter, a marine scientist from University of California, Santa Barbara. "There's a remarkable increase in the number of bird species." Experienced and novice bird watchers alike can take advantage of the restored wetland and lagoon habitats that are attracting such birds as sparrows, sandpipers, coots, hawks, hummingbirds and pelicans. For full story, visit: http://www.delmartimes.net/news/256037-wetlands-flourish-how-to-best-enjoy-the-budding-habitat

VT: Vermont House passes protective wetlands bill

Burlington Free Press – April 16, 2009 The Vermont House on Wednesday gave final approval to legislation that will increase the number of wetlands that will be protected under Vermont law, state officials said. The bill, H.447, will require inaccurate state wetlands maps to be updated and will mandate better protections for wetlands. Vermont's Water Resources Panel began addressing wetlands classification after a 2006 state Supreme Court ruling on the reclassification of the Lake Bomoseen wetland. The court decision was used as a catalyst to change state wetland protection laws that left some wetlands unprotected because they were not included on state wetland maps, state officials said. For full story, go to: http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/article/20090416/NEWS03/90416012

MO: Kansas Wetlands Education Center Grand Opening

Kansas City Info Zine – April 16, 2009 The Kansas Wetlands Education Center has something to show you. The eagerly-anticipated interpretive center at Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area will officially open for visitors during its grand opening at 3 p.m. Friday, April 24. The new facility’s opening culminates several years of collaboration among a variety of partners. It also marks an important milestone in the rich history of Cheyenne Bottoms, providing the means to illuminate that history and enlighten visitors about the unique value of Cheyenne Bottoms, nearby Quivira National Wildlife Refuge, and all Kansas wetlands. For full story, go to: http://www.infozine.com/news/stories/op/storiesView/sid/35372/

VA: Chesapeake Bay again gets a D on report card

By Scott Harper - The Virginian-Pilot – April 16, 2009 The scant progress made in cleaning up the Chesapeake Bay has become "a national disgrace," the head of a leading environmental group said Wednesday. William C. Baker, president of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, offered his blunt assessment in releasing the annual "State of the Bay" report card, which grades the overall health of the Bay based on various factors. For 2008, the foundation gave the Bay a combined score of 28 on a scale of 1 to 100. In classroom terms, that equates to a D, the same grade as in 2007 and just one point higher than what the foundation first reported, in 1998. For full story, go to: http://hamptonroads.com/2009/04/chesapeakce-bay-again-gets-d-report-card

CA: Wetland Parks Bring Nature Back to South Los Angeles

By Chico Norwood – April 16, 2009 South Los Angeles is home to one wetland and is poised for another. In May, which is American Wetlands Month, the city will break ground on the second wetland for the area — the South Los Angeles Wetland Park at 5413 S. Avalon Blvd. In addition to the groundbreaking, the event will include a community open house where residents will have the opportunity to view renderings of the proposed project. For full story, go to: http://www.lawattstimes.com/component/content/article/52-featured/633-wetland-parks-bring-nature-back-to-south-los-angeles.html

MN: Ramsey buffer ordinance on the road to repeal

By Tammy Sakry – ABC Newspapers – April 15, 2009 Although it has yet to be tested, Ramsey’s wetland buffer ordinance appears to be on the way out. The Ramsey City Council April 14 voted 4-3 to introduce the repeal of the 2005 ordinance. Councilmembers David Elvig, David Jeffrey and Jeff Wise voted against the repeal. The 2005 ordinance requires new development to have wetland buffers, ranging from five to 50 feet depending on the quality of the wetland, and limits activities, such as building structures and mowing, in the buffer area. For full story, go to: http://abcnewspapers.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=6905&Itemid=26

MO: Facing floods, group sees buffer in wetland

By Aaron Sudholt – St. Louis Post-Dispatch – April 15, 2009 A deal to keep a portion of swampland along Horseshoe Lake Road near Collinsville and Pontoon Beach could help protect the area from flooding, officials said this week. Mascoutah-based Southwestern Illinois Resource Conservation and Development on Tuesday purchased about 86 acres of land near the northwestern corner of Horseshoe Lake and Arlington roads in Pontoon Beach. For full story, go to: http://suburbanjournals.stltoday.com/articles/2009/04/16/madison/news/0415cvj-wetlands.txt

CT: $1.5M in stimulus goes to restoring wetlands

By Judy Benson – The Day – April 14, 2009 About $1.5 million in federal stimulus money will be used to restore 900 acres of degraded wetlands in the lower Connecticut River, Gov. M. Jodi Rell announced Monday. The project, which would help restore tidal wetlands and two acres of barrier beach in Chester, East Haddam, Essex, Haddam, Old Lyme, Lyme and Old Saybrook, would benefit fish and shorebirds, control invasive plants such as phragmites and purple loosestrife, remove debris, enhance beaches and create pools, the governor's office said in a news release. The state will contribute $400,000 in matching funds for the project. For full story, go to: http://www.theday.com/re.aspx?re=9b8a4a76-0803-42c6-9926-ebc5701ee94e

FL: Editorial: Digging below the surface

Editorial staff – TC Palm – April 14, 2009 Call it the dumbing down of "environmental protection." A bill filed under this heading is winding its way through the 2009 Florida Legislature. There's just one problem: House Bill 1349 would severely undermine the protection of Florida's wetlands. In their frenetic rush to jump-start the state's ailing economy, lawmakers have proposed several bills that would relax environmental regulations and make it easier for developers to move forward with projects. http://www.tcpalm.com/news/2009/apr/14/digging-below-the-03/?feedback=1#comments

LA: Louisiana Begins Wetland Repair with Mississippi River Sediment

ENS – April 14, 2009 The first project in state history designed to mine sediments from the Mississippi River and transport them by pipeline to rebuild eroding coastal wetlands was announced today by Governor Bobby Jindal. The $28.3 million project, known as The Mississippi River Sediment Delivery System at Bayou Dupont, will build and restore nearly 500 acres of marsh in Lower Jefferson and Plaquemines parishes using sediment from the Mississippi River. Governor Jindal said, "The Bayou Dupont Project breaks new ground for coastal restoration in our state because it is the first time we have carried out a project to transport sediments from the Mississippi River through a pipeline to build wetlands outside the river's levees." For full story, go to: http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/apr2009/2009-04-14-093.asp

MI: GIBRALTAR: Ceremony to commemorate 358 acres of coastal wetlands

By Francesca Chilargi – Southgate News Herald – April 14, 2009 One of the last coastal wetlands in Wayne County surrounds Carlson High School. A ceremony at 2:30 p.m. Thursday at the high school, 30550 W. Jefferson Ave., will commemorate that 358 acres of coastal wetlands as it is donated to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Waste Management will hand over the deed to the property at the ceremony. The wetlands are adjacent to the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge and now will become part of it. “We’re going to protect it for wildlife and make improvements for wildlife,” said John Hartig, manager of the wildlife refuge. “We’ll use it as a living laboratory for Gibraltar students.” For full story, visit: http://www.thenewsherald.com/articles/2009/04/14/news/doc49e4deaf9bd6d504551957.txt

CA: An unpretty wetlands project

Long Beach Press-Telegram – April 14, 2009 Long Beach taxpayers and environmentalists (usually, but not always the same people) are being treated to an up-close look at how to put wetlands into public ownership. It's a lot like making sausage. The land in question is a miserably unsightly little oil patch that ought to be cleaned up whether or not it had wetlands potential, which it does. The city's intent is to trade some surplus land, a 12.1-acre public service yard, for the 33.77-acre parcel, and later, when (or if) the state is in better financial shape, sell it for its approximate value, or about $8 million. For full story, go to: http://www.presstelegram.com/opinions/ci_12136445

MT: Montana to Washington: 'Hands off our water'

World Net Daily – April 13, 2009 It's called the Clean Water Restoration Act. Sounds innocuous enough. After all, who could oppose clean water? But the bill introduced earlier this month by Sen. Russ Feingold and 23 co-sponsors, ostensibly to protect Americas wetlands, lakes and streams, was running into opposition even before hearings begin. The Montana Senate overwhelmingly voted to oppose the legislation because it removes control of all of the state's waterways, including temporary ones like seasonal ponds and swamps, from local officials to those in Washington. For full story, go to: http://worldnetdaily.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=94890

ECOS Succeeds in Overturning NPDES Voluntary Permit Fee Rule

By Lee Garrigan – (Reprinted with permission) – ECOSWire – April 10, 2009 ECOS won a major victory this week when the U.S. EPA on April 9, signed the withdrawal of the NPDES Voluntary Permit Fee Incentive for Clean Water Act Section 106 (S106) Grants; Allotment Formula rule. The ECOS Water Committee ranked the withdrawal of the rule as its top priority in communications with the Obama transition team in 2008. ECOS actively opposed the rule since the concept first surfaced in legislative language in 2006. ECOS passed Resolution Number 07-3: ECOS Opposition to Set-Asides of Water Quality Program Funding, provided comments to the EPA docket (Proposed NPDES Permit Fee Rule, March 2, 2007 Letter to USEPA), and sent letters to the EPA leadership (Letter Asking for Withdrawal of Proposed Permit Fees Rule; ECOS Letter to Assistant Administrator Grumbles Re: NPDES Permit Fee Incentive Rule). The Agency issued the rule on September 10, 2008 and began to write guidance. EPA subsequently reconsidered its approach based on concerns raised by the affected states. The rule would have provided a “monetary incentive” for States to implement “adequate” NPDES fee programs. Any funds that would have been used for incentive purposes will instead be allocated to states under an existing grant formula. Read the Federal Register Notice - Withdrawal of NPDES Voluntary Permit Fee Incentive Rule (PDF)

LA: PPG plans to restore the wetlands

By Charlie Bartlett – KPLC News – April 9, 2009 PPG is looking to start another project promoting restoration and it's the final phase of their various projects. From the canal re-route project to the wetlands project, PPG is looking to create twenty acres of wetlands right by the Interstate 210 Bridge. "It offers an opportunity to the public to see coastal restoration happening right under the 210 bridge," said Mike Huber. "All dredge material in Louisiana should be used beneficially. This is a highly visible project that will enable us to show as a model project," said David Richard. For full story, go to: http://www.kplctv.com/Global/story.asp?S=10160818&nav=menu66_2

RI: Consultant: Dowling Village may endanger wetlands

By Joseph Fitzgerald – Woonsocket Call – April 9, 2009 The environmental engineering firm hired by the town to conduct a peer review of the proposed Dowling Village, said while the mixed commercial, office and residential development as proposed by project developer, Bucci Development, complies in general with the state's stormwater regulations, it does not appear to be protective of nearby wetland resources, potential additional impairment of the Blackstone River Watershed and the diversity of dragonflies and other species of Odonata at Booth Pond. For full story, go to: http://www.woonsocketcall.com/content/view/80525/112/

OH: Judge rules for developer in wetland case

By Steve Bennish – Dayton Daily News – April 9, 2009 A Dayton municipal judge has ruled against the Ohio attorney general in the high profile case of a developer accused criminally of bulldozing an exceptionally high-quality wetland surrounded by woods along Harshman Road for a commercial strip in 2006. Under Ohio law, developers need special permits to do work that affects natural water resources, including wetlands. The Ohio EPA had issued no such permit. For full story, go to: http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/dayton-news/judge-rules-for-developer-in-wetland-case-76785.html

NM: Wetlands face threats, but have backers

By Sue Major Holmes – Examiner – April 4, 2009 It's one of those unintended consequences: People who came to the arid Southwest didn't mean to destroy wetlands, but that's what happened as they drained swamps for farmland and dammed rivers for flood control, water storage and recreation. "Water is such a scarce resource in New Mexico that whatever use one makes of it affects the other uses," said Steve Cary, natural resource planner for New Mexico State Parks. For full story, go to: http://www.examiner.com/a-1943722~Wetlands_face_threats__but_have_backers.html

IA: Environment greatly influences decisions in siting wind turbines

By Michael Tidemann – Estherville Daily News – April 4, 2009 There's a certain irony in it. While wind turbines are one of our country's best answers to energy independence and preserving the environment, siting wind turbines often presents environmental challenges. Joe Rubino, senior environmental scientist with Stanley Consultants Inc., discussed environmental issues during turbine siting with members of the Iowa Wind Energy Association Thursday at Iowa Lakes Community College. Rubino said developers need to look at tens of thousands of acres to determine where turbines can be sited. That could amount to areas as large as 25-50 square miles. Rubino said factors to consider include wetlands, cultural assessments, threatened and endangered species, impacts on birds and bats and Federal Aviation Administration determinations. For full story, go to: http://www.esthervilledailynews.com/page/content.detail/id/503098.html?nav=5003

Archived News Return to top.

March

FL: Local Wetlands Protections Essential

By Jadell Kerr, et. al. – Tampa Tribune – March 31, 2009 In the article "Wetlands Division A Redundancy," Tampa Tribune, March 21, Keith Bricklemyer lays out a case against the Environmental Protection Commission's wetlands protection program, stating there is no documentation of facts showing the program's success. The "absence" of these facts causes Bricklemyer to infer that the longevity of EPC's program is fueled by long-term emotional rhetoric. Our guess is, since the "facts" contained in Bricklemyer's article are, at best, misleading and mostly incorrect, that he himself has been overcome by emotion. Bricklemyer is a local land use attorney with ties to the Tampa Bay Builders Association, an organization that has battled bitterly against the EPC in attempts to reduce governmental oversight of development in Hillsborough County. Bricklemyer is not speaking from the perspective of a tax watch group interested in protecting tax revenues. If so, he would understand that the state and water management districts have significant budgets compared to the nominal costs of the EPC's local wetlands program. For full story, go to: http://www2.tbo.com/content/2009/mar/31/na-local-wetlands-protections-essential/

OH: 2009 Coastweeks Will Honor Ohio’s Valuable Coastal Resources

Ohio Lake Erie Commission – March 27, 2009 Ohio is preparing for its annual celebration of Lake Erie’s diverse coastal region and the cultural and economic resources that contribute to the quality of life and vitality of the region. The 2009 Coastweeks observance will focus on the preservation and protection of Lake Erie and its watershed through a variety of cleanup events along the shoreline and throughout its watershed. Ohio's program focuses on the theme, "I Can Help Lake Erie.” It encourages people to recognize and advocate resource protection while balancing economic, cultural and environmental interests. “Lake Erie has influenced the growth of Ohio through productive agricultural lands, industries, international harbors and as a recreational destination,” said Ed Hammett. “Taking part in a Coastweeks cleanup is a great way for those who benefit from the lake to give back.” This year, Ohioans will demonstrate their commitment to clean, safe beaches and waterways on September 19, International Coastal Cleanup Day. The Ohio Lake Erie Commission coordinates the state’s observance, which allows thousands of Ohioans to find solutions for litter that pollutes beaches, streams and tributaries. Environmental organizations, schools, scout groups, clubs, community groups and individuals throughout Ohio’s Lake Erie watershed are encouraged to get involved in this year’s Coastweeks by organizing an event. For more information, visit: http://www.lakeerie.ohio.gov/Coastweeks.aspx

FL: Bill to ease wetlands development advances in Florida House

By Craig Pittman and Matthew Waite – Miami Herald – March 22, 2009 A bill that would drastically limit the state's ability to protect wetlands from destruction has passed a legislative committee. The bill says that anyone who wants to destroy a wetland simply needs to turn in an application that has been ``prepared and signed by . . . scientists, engineers, geologists, architects or other licensed professionals.'' As long as the application is filled out properly and signed by a licensed professional, who certifies the wetland destruction won't lead to water pollution problems, it ''shall be presumed to comply'' with the law and must be approved. The House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee approved the bill Thursday. HB 1349 is not yet available online. For complete article, go to: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/breaking-news/story/962019.html For a related (and opposite opinion) go to: http://www2.tbo.com/content/2009/mar/21/co-wetlands-division-a-redundancy/ (check comments as well) For related story, go to: http://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/wetlands/article985783.ece

NC: Scoopers, coveting the swamps

By Steve Ford – The News & Observer – March 22, 2009 When The N&O's editor at the time, Claude Sitton, interviewed me on July 4, 1981, for a newsroom editing job, there were three topics of discussion that still stick in my mind. One had to do with my understanding of a newspaper's responsibilities. A second involved the paper's coverage of a certain conservative U.S. senator, mild-mannered and tolerant fellow that he was. And the third focused on a huge strip-mining operation down along the Pamlico River. I had spent the previous couple of years working for an environmental agency closely focused on water quality, so I was on Claude's wave length as he expounded on the ecological hazards of digging through the Beaufort County forests and swamps hard by a sensitive, vitally important waterway. The TexasGulf phosphate mine, as it then was known, had been up and running since the mid-1960s, but was looking to expand so fresh ore could be recovered as old areas were mined out. For full story, go to: http://www.newsobserver.com/opinion/columns/story/1452288.html

MS: Public Meetings to be Held Regarding 15-year Management Plan for Bogue Chitto

Contact: Daniel Breaux – Picayune Item / US FWS News Release – March 21, 2009 The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is starting work on a long-term management plan for Bogue Chitto National Wildlife Refuge. A Comprehensive Conservation Plan (CCP) will be developed, which is a practical guide for managing the Refuge over the next 15 years. Established in 1981, Bogue Chitto NWR is one of eight refuges managed as part of the Southeast Louisiana Refuges Complex. The 37,600 acre refuge is bisected by the Pearl River with portions of the refuge located in Saint Tammany and Washington Parishes in Louisiana and Pear River County in Mississippi. The refuge is bounded, on the Mississippi side of the river, by Old River WMA to the north and to the south, on the Louisiana side, by Pearl River WMA thereby forming an 88,000 acre block of protected forested wetlands and adjacent uplands within the Pearl River basin. For full press release, go to: http://www.picayuneitem.com/local/local_story_080164609.html

LA: Coastal restoration advocate King Milling wins T-P Loving Cup

By John Pope - The Times-Picayune – March 21, 2009 About a decade ago, R. King Milling had a meeting that changed his life. As the president of Whitney National Bank and the member of countless commissions and boards, he already had plenty on his plate. But three environmentalists, including a prep school classmate, wanted Milling's advice on getting support from the business community for saving Louisiana's coast, a topic that had first grabbed Milling's attention during his years of hunting in Louisiana's marshland. Midway through their pitch, Milling cut them off. For full story, go to: http://www.nola.com/news/index.ssf/2009/03/coastal_restoration_advocate_k.html

IL: Committee would oversee Prairie Green preserve

By Steve Lord – St. Charles Sun – March 21, 2009 In the next several months, the city of Geneva will create a citizen's advisory committee to oversee the Prairie Green preserve and wetlands west of the city. The 400-acre preserve, created by referendum several years ago, runs along the western edge of Peck Road, beginning near the intersection with Bricher Road. It was created to be open space on the western edge of the city, with a number of public uses, as well as money-making opportunities for the city. The city has a comprehensive plan for the preserve listing uses such as trails, ponds, community gardens, park and picnic sites, as well as other uses. For full story, go to: http://www.suburbanchicagonews.com/stcharlessun/news/ 1488474,2_1_AU21_PRAIRIE_S1.article

CA: Sensing `disaster'

By Joe Segura – Contra Costa Times – March 20, 2009 City Manager Pat West halted heavy earth movers Friday from spreading a mound of asphalt apparently meant to pave a section of just cleared habitat near Los Cerritos Wetlands. Environmentalists were up in arms over the work at the site - recently sold to a new owner - near the southwest corner of Studebaker Road and Loynes Drive. "Why is the city letting this illegal stuff happen?" asked Elizabeth Lambe, executive director of Los Cerritos Wetlands Land Trust. The property reportedly was sold to Signal Hill-based 2H Construction, but company president Sean Hitchcock could not be reached for comment Friday. West said he met briefly with Hitchcock at the site Friday, advising him that permits - both from the city and the state Coastal Commission - were required. For full story, go to: http://www.contracostatimes.com/california/ci_11964187?nclick_check=1

VA: Three Miles of Blackwater River Frontage Protected

The Nature Conservancy Press Release – March 19, 2009 The Nature Conservancy in Virginia and Conservation Forestry, LLC announced today the protection of 416 forested acres along the Blackwater River in Southampton County. The property is home to a wide diversity of plants and wildlife, including bald eagles, and has been identified by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation as an area of “outstanding ecological significance.” The project was aided by the North American Wetlands Act. For full story, visit: http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/virginia/press/ press3945.html

MI: Michigan DEQ and Saginaw County drain commissioner at odds over drains

By Barrie Barber – Saginaw News – March 19, 2009 The state Department of Environmental Quality is investigating Saginaw County Public Works Commissioner James A. Koski's decision two years ago to move a county drain on Hemlock Semiconductor Corp. land without a permit, a DEQ spokesman says. Koski said he the state's drain code and Michigan Inland Lakes and Streams Act gave him authority to relocate or fill in portions of two open ditches, the more-than-century-old Fisher and McClelland Run drains. For full story, go to: http://www.mlive.com/news/saginaw/index.ssf/2009/03/ michigan_deq_and_saginaw_count.html

CA: Editorial: Water, Water Everywhere

By Dave Quick – Santa Monica Mirror – March 14, 2009 A visitor to Santa Monica from Mars might be a bit miffed to learn of Governor Schwarzenegger's February 27 declaration of a statewide drought emergency. “Prepare for the worst, and hope for the best,” stated California water resources director Lester Snow (it really is Lester's surname!) in support of the declaration. Our E.T. from the Red Planet scratches his/her/its head(s). After all, our burg-by-the-bay hugs the largest known body of water in the universe - the Pacific Ocean. Looking west from Santa Monica there is water, water everywhere as far as the eye can see. Water all the way to Tokyo. Or for that matter, a visitor from Algeria, Israel, Saudi Arabia, Tampa Bay or even Carlsbad CA might wonder about the governor's drought. There are over 13,000 desalination (“desal”) plants up and running worldwide. It has become mainstream technology. For full editorial, visit: http://www.smmirror.com/MainPages/DisplayArticleDetails.asp?eid=9760

CT: Wetlands Tables Action on Town's Application

By Jaimie Cura – Voices – March 14, 2009 Inland Wetlands Agency Chairman Mary Tyrrell recommended tabling discussion on the town and Park and Recreation Department application for Strong Meadow Preserve because an executive session requested by agency member Marty Newell had yet to take place. No action was taken on the application for a recreation area at Strong Meadow Preserve on Middle Road Turnpike, at the agency's Monday, March 9, meeting. For full story, go to: http://www.zwire.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20280013&BRD= 1380&PAG=461&dept_id=157533&rfi=6

MO: Secretary Salazar Announces Nearly $1 Million for Wetlands Grant in Missouri

Kansas City Infozine – March 13, 2009 The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, chaired by Department of the Interior Secretary Ken Salazar, recently approved a $999,570 grant under the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) for wetland restoration and enhancement in the Confluence Region of Missouri. For full story, go to: http://www.infozine.com/news/stories/op/storiesView/sid/34654/

NH: Conservation housing project OK'd by board

By Tamara Le – Portsmouth Herald News – March 13 th, 2009 The Planning Board voted unanimously approved the Rocky Ledge Conservation subdivision Thursday with 10 conditions including taking jurisdiction. Among the 10 conditions was the pending approval of the Conservation District implementation by North Hampton voters. Additionally, the construction of an eight-foot asphalt apron at the entrance near 142 Mill Road and receipt of a private road waiver from the town's Select Board are also needed. For full story, go to: http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20090313-NEWS-903130374

LA: Wetlands Reserve Program sign up deadline March 25

Town Talk – March 13, 2009 Through the Wetland Reserve Program (WRP) Louisiana landowners interested in restoring or enhancing wetlands can receive funding for doing so. Landowners interested in signing-up for WRP should have their applications into their local Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Field Office by close of business on March 25, according to a news release. USDA’s NRCS administers WRP and has field offices throughout the state to help landowners with the application process. WRP is a national program authorized under the Farm Bill to assist eligible applicants in the restoration, creation, protection and enhancement of wetlands on their property through a voluntary, environmentally safe and cost-effective manner. For full story, go to: http://www.thetowntalk.com/article/20090313/BUSINESS/90312015

TX: Court upholds effort to create wetlands refuge in Texas

Houston Chronicle – March 13, 2009 A federal appeals court has upheld the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s efforts to create a national refuge on 25,000 acres of forested wetlasnds along the Neches River that Dallas had targeted for a major reservoir. The 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals’ ruling Thursday, in essence, blocked plans that called for taming one of the state’s wildest rivers to meet the city’s burgeoning thirst. A lower court previously rejected most of the lawsuit from Dallas and the Texas Water Development Board against the federal agency. For full story, go to: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/headline/metro/6310272.html

MT:NW Montana wetlands project to get $6.6 million

Associated Press – March 13, 2009 Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar says a northwestern Montana wetlands and wildlife habitat conservation project will receive $6.6 million. The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, chaired by Salazar, approved funding for the Glaciated Valleys of Northwest Montana Project. Salazar said Thursday the project will receive a $1 million grant, $2.8 million in matching funds, and $2.8 million in non-matching funds. For full story, go to: http://www.kpax.com/Global/story.asp?S=10004499

NY: The Nature Conservancy on Long Island Addresses Global Warming

The Nature Conservancy Press Release – March 12, 2009 The Nature Conservancy is taking a two-pronged approach to addressing global warming and sea-level rise on Long Island. Through its work to measure the anticipated sea level rise and assess whether our environment will adapt to the rising seas, the Conservancy is leading the charge in preparing for these threats. “Scientists tell us that sea levels will rise by as much as four feet by the end of this century,” said Sarah Newkirk, coastal team leader for The Nature Conservancy on Long Island. “Long Island’s shores have some of the most highly developed lands in the coastal zone. Rising seas will impact both people and nature, causing flooding in coastal communities, heightened storm surges, and drowning of wetlands and other natural habitats.” For full story, go to: http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/newyork/press/ press3937.html

RI: D’Ambra Construction wants federal permission to fill a wetlands in Johnston

By Mark Reynolds – Providence Journal – March 12, 2009 A developer has proposed filling a wetlands area to make way for an asphalt and concrete production facility, a federal regulator said yesterday. Michael V. D’Ambra’s site plan calls for filling an acre of wetlands and developing a marsh in the new industrial park near the state’s Central Landfill. The wetlands plan is part of an effort to relocate an asphalt and concrete operation from Warwick, where D’Ambra has proposed a 320-room hotel and office buildings. For full story, go to: http://www.projo.com/news/content/JOHNSTON_ASPHALT_PROJECT_03-12-09_SIDL0SC_v52.37869f1.html

NC: Environmental Protections Must be Upheld as Mining Expands

Southern Environmental Law Center – March 12, 2009 A permit issued by the N.C. Division of Water Quality illegally approves the largest destruction of wetlands in the state’s history by PCS Phosphate, according to papers filed by the Southern Environmental Law Center today in state administrative court. The permit presumes the state will write new rules that accommodate the company’s ambitions. For full press release, go to: http://www.pitchengine.com/southernenvironmentallawcenter/ environmental-protections-must-be-upheld-as-mining-expands/6288/

TX: Judge’s redo order could halt Isle development

By Harvey Rice – Houston Chronicle – March 11, 2009 A federal judge Wednesday ordered the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to redo an environmental assessment of a housing development on Galveston Island, a ruling an attorney says could potentially halt all development on the island’s west end. The order from U.S. District Judge Sim Lake of Houston said the Corps failed to explain why it concluded that the proposed Anchor Bay Ltd. development was environmentally acceptable. Lake said in his order that the Corps predicted damage to wetlands and animal habitat, then inexplicably said that the development would have little environmental effect. For full story, go to: http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/metropolitan/6306399.html

FL: Federal money to come for Everglades restoration

MSNBC – Associated Press – March 11, 2009 Everglades restoration will get a boost with the $410 billion spending package signed by President Barack Obama. The president signed the bill on Wednesday, clearing the way for nearly $200 million to be spent largely on projects aimed at helping heal the dying ecosystem. The vast wetlands and marshes have long suffered from encroaching development and agriculture that contributes fertilizers and pollutants to the ecosystem. Efforts to restore more natural water flow in the Everglades have been ongoing for decades. For a link to this story, go to: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29642618/

CA: San Francisco Bay vulnerable to rising waters

By Mike Taugher – Mercury News – March 11, 2009 Rising seas threaten $100 billion worth of property in California, two-thirds of which is in the San Francisco Bay Area, researchers have found. No part of the Bay Area's lowlands are safe from sea level rise: San Francisco's Embarcadero and parts of Oakland, Alameda, Sausalito and Alviso could all be under water in the event of a major flood unless levees or other protective structures are built. San Mateo County, including Foster City and Redwood City, could be especially hard hit, while San Francisco and Oakland's airports might both be inundated. For full story, go to: http://www.mercurynews.com/ci_11890762?source=most_emailed

LA: Clay Center film takes close look at wetlands of Louisiana

By Monica Orosz – Charleston Daily Mail – March 5, 2009 Greg MacGillivray began shooting the story of Louisiana's declining wetlands to sound alarm bells. The director and producer wanted to show that because of wetland destruction, a hypothetical hurricane could lead to a disastrous flood for the Gulf Coast city of New Orleans. As it turns out, the project he began shooting in early 2005 didn't need any hypotheticals. In August of that year, Hurricane Katrina unleashed its wrath on the city. And MacGillivray's filming team went from shooting what could happen to documenting what did happen. For full story, visit: http://www.dailymail.com/entertainment/200903040238

NY: Hearing on wetlands law scheduled

By Janine Stankus – Poughkeepsie Journal – March 5, 2009 Town residents will get a chance to voice their opinion again on a local ordinance to protect wetlands and watercourses within the Town of Washington at a public hearing next week. “Water and ecology are very important to human existence," said Michael Murphy, chairman of the committee in charge of drafting the legislation. He pointed out that several wetlands in Washington contribute to the village water source, and their quality must therefore be maintained. For full story, visit: http://www.poughkeepsiejournal.com/article/20090305/NEWS01/903050309/ 1006/news01

VA: Locality Considers Becoming Wetland

ABC TV – March 5, 2009 South Boston is looking 20 years into the future, but what they see is causing some controversy. The town is updating its comprehensive plan, and one of their visions is to possibly transform Riverdale into a Green Wetlands park.  Business owners in Riverdale are worried they'll have to move. What is unique about Riverdale is that it’s in a flood prone area, so relocation has been on the table for years now. Still owners say it's not right for the town to tell them what to do with their businesses. Bunny Propst has owned property in Riverdale for decades. So, when she found out the town's future plans might not include her business staying where it is, she was furious. For full story, go to: http://www.wset.com/news/stories/0309/600933.html

MI: Analysis says Mich. wetlands could be vulnerable

Associated Press – March 4, 2009 An analysis by the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality says dismantling the state's wetland protection program could leave nearly 1 million acres of wetlands without legal protection. The analysis was made public Wednesday by an environmental watchdog group based in Washington, D.C. Gov. Jennifer Granholm has suggested dropping the state program and transferring regulation of Michigan's wetlands to the federal government to save $2.1 million a year. For full story, go to: http://www.fox28.com/Global/story.asp?S=9947267

VA: Flood-prone tracts returning to nature?

By Cory Nealon – Newport News Daily Press – March 1, 2009 Since 2005, Gloucester County has acquired 60.4 acres of flood-prone properties around Guinea. It's now deciding what to do with the land, which was devastated in 2003 by Hurricane Isabel and a series of tropical storms that followed. Last month, the county Planning Commission recommended leaving the lion's share in its natural state. "A lot of it is small parcels that used to be homes," said Anne Ducey-Ortiz, director of the Planning Department. "We'll let most of them go back to being a swamp because that's what they were before." It's a cost-effective and environmentally sound decision, Duecy-Ortiz said, because the land would require little maintenance that could be performed by the sheriff's office work-release crew and county employees. For full story, go to: http://www.dailypress.com/news/local/middlepeninsula/dp-local_glofema_0301mar01,0,1925012.story

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FEBRUARY 2009

WA: Petition attempts to stop 244th

Sammamish Review – February 23, 2009 Water squished under Ron Cornwall’s shoes as he navigated his spongy backyard with his 10-year-old golden retriever Clyde. He cast his hand over Allen Lake and described a summer afternoon when he saw the bushes across the lake shimmying. He was fishing at the time with a friend. “This bear came cruising across, going after some geese. My buddy and I, our jaws dropped,” Cornwall said. His backyard is privy to other fauna as well: bald eagles, deer, bobcats, trout, bass and catfish, according to Cornwall. For him and his neighbors, the majesty of Allen Lake is worth fighting for, even if it means taking on a city and a road project planned for decades. For full story, go to: http://sammamishreview.com/2009/02/23/petition-attempts-to-stop-244th

Legislators envision less regulation as salve for Florida's economy

By Craig Pittman and Matthew Waite – St. Petersburg Times – February 17, 2009 Florida legislative leaders want to make it easier to get permits to destroy wetlands, tap the water supply and wipe out endangered species habitat, all in the interest of building houses, stores and offices. They say streamlining the permitting process will get the economy moving again. "We've got to get permits going and flowing," said Rep. Trudi Williams, R-Fort Myers. "We need to make some incentives for people to revitalize our economy." But opponents, ranging from Audubon of Florida to the Florida League of Cities, say making permits easier to get ultimately would hurt the economy and the environment. For full article, go to: http://www.tampabay.com/news/politics/legislature/article976378.ece

NJ: The Green Govs

By Fran Wood – The Star-Ledger – February 17, 2009 It isn't often people say nice things about New Jersey's governors. But when it comes to protecting the environment, they deserve some praise. Jersey's concern for the environment and the protection of its natural resources dates to 1755, when the state's then British-run government enacted a law prohibiting the disposal of trash in state waterways. Beginning in 1961, residents of the nation's most crowded state have voted consistently to make land preservation a top public priority. Toward that end, most of the state's governors since that time have left their own green footprints. For full story, go to: http://www.nj.com/insidejersey/index.ssf/2009/02/the_green_govs.html

NY: Ex-employee wants to discuss wetlands controversy with Rye council

By Theresa Juva – Lower Hudson Journal News – February 17, 2009 A former city naturalist who said last week that the city manager knew officials had made a mistake in not protecting a resident's wetland says she is willing to meet with the City Council. "I would think they would want to hear all sides," said Chantal Detlefs, whose responsibilities included reviewing wetlands applications. "If they don't, then it's very sad." For full story, visit: http://lohud.com/article/20090217/NEWS02/902170361/-1/newsfront

HI: State Takes Over Kawainui Marsh Management

KITV-TV – February 17, 2009 Monday was World Wetlands Day. This year's theme is "Mauka to Makai; The wetlands connect us all." In Hawaii, the wetlands play an important role. The state Department of Land and Natural Resources division of Forestry and Wildlife officially took over management of the Kawainui Hamakua Marsh on Monday. Most wetlands are in coastal areas and nearly all can be vulnerable to development and runoff. The wetlands also face [sic] not to mention invasive weeds and predators. For full story, go to: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/29227392/

Obama Signs $787 Billion Economic Stimulus Bill

By William Branigin – Washington Post – February 17, 2009 President Obama today signed into law a $787 billion economic stimulus plan that he said begins "the essential work of keeping the American dream alive in our time." In a speech and signing ceremony in Denver, Obama said the new law is aimed at creating millions of jobs and halting the U.S. economy's downward spiral. Obama signed the massive, nearly 1,100-page American Recovery and Reinvestment Act at the Denver Museum of Nature and Science, a setting intended to underscore the new law's role in creating clean-energy jobs. Before the signing, the president toured a solar panel installation on the museum's roof. For full story, go to:http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/17/ AR2009021700221.html?hpid=topnews For a direct link to the bill, HR1, American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, visit: http://thomas.loc.gov/home/approp/app09.html#h1 If that link does not work, visit: www.thomas.gov and it should be highlighted at the top of the webpage. For a summary of the Stimulus bill, go to: http://www.wildlifemanagementinstitute.org/index.php?option=com_ content&view=article&id=335:stimulus-bill&catid=34:ONB%20Articles&Itemid=54 For related stories, go to: http://www.wef.org/GovernmentAffairs/StimulusFunding/https:// www.landtrustalliance.org/policy/advocates/adv-021309

TX: San Benito turns sewer ponds into wetlands

By Fernando del Valle – The Monitor – February 16, 2009 The city is ready to turn some of its old sewer ponds into a wetland area and wildlife sanctuary, officials said Monday. The city has turned over plans for the 20-acre project to the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, city engineer Orlando Cruz said. State officials are expected to approve plans next month before the city solicits bids for the $700,000 constrction project, said Martha McClain, the city's director of community affairs. The TCEQ is picking up the tab. For full story, go to: http://www.themonitor.com/articles/city_23302___article.html/sewer_plant.html

SC: SRS taking care with environmental impact

Aiken Standard – February 16, 2009 Fragile ecosystems and wetlands provide the Department of Energy's (DOE) Savannah River Site (SRS) a unique opportunity to incorporate a simple yet effective means of groundwater monitoring, soil sampling and educational training to college interns. A method called hand auguring is being used in 16 shallow wells along the waterways in R Area, one of five areas at SRS that for decades were home to operating production reactors. Hand auguring is a minimally invasive means of groundwater sampling that is designed to protect the wetlands and wildlife that frequent the area. It consists of manually inserting drill rods into the subsurface in small increments, to allow the testing of subsurface soils, until the maximum depth is achieved. Once auguring is complete, engineers are able to install a well and sample the groundwater for contaminants and monitor the progress of natural attenuation. For full story, go to: http://www.aikenstandard.com/Local/0213SRSMonitoring

CA: Birders head to Siskiyou wetlands to see eagles

By Carolyn Jones – San Francisco Chronicle – February 16, 2009 It was twilight at Laird's Landing, a barren, lonely ranch 20 miles from the nearest town, when bald eagles began swooping over the tundra to perch in a leafless clump of cottonwoods. Before the full moon inched over a treeless ridge in the distance, more than 40 of the regal raptors had arrived for their nightly roost. Sometimes, the trees hold 130 or more. For full story, go to: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/02/15/MNED15S4VJ.DTL

CA: A wetlands rescue

Long Beach Press Telegram – February 14, 2009 A lot of hope has been built into this transaction. It was a roundabout way toward restoring wetlands, and taxpayers will never be sure if they got them at the right price. But at least they got them. The prize consists of some sorry-looking, oily lowlands that have little commercial value because part of the 33.77-acre parcel is legally undevelopable. We don't even know exactly which part, which means we don't know exactly what it's worth. The city of Long Beach soon will acquire the parcel in a no-cash trade for some of its own property, a 12.1-acre Public Service Yard alongside the L.A. River. We're not sure how much that land is worth, either, partly because of deflating property values. For full story, go to: http://www.presstelegram.com/opinions/ci_11708254

VA: Deal near to regulate pools by Chesapeake Bay

By Deirdre Fernandes - The Virginian-Pilot - February 12, 2009 City and state officials are close to a compromise on how to regulate swimming pools along the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Under the proposal, Virginia Beach would concede that swimming pools are impervious surfaces that prevent stormwater from filtering into the ground. The city would also create more consistent guidelines for what property owners must do to reduce runoff if they want to build pools, driveways and sheds. For full story, go to: http://hamptonroads.com/2009/02/deal-near-regulate-pools-chesapeake-bay-waters

IL: Canoeing one of Illinois' greatest wetlands

Midwest AgNet – February 11, 2009 Eric Schenck was rooted in the present once again, his Alumacraft canoe firmly strapped to the roof of his Ford Explorer after 3½ hours of paddling through one of the last great expanses of wetland wilderness in central Illinois. Physically, Sanganois State Conservation Area is 10,000 acres of slough, marsh, lake and wetland - terrain much like the geography up and down the Illinois River 100 years ago. Emotionally and intellectually, Schenck has concluded, the swamp represents much more and touches upon something deep in our genetic makeup. For full story, go to: http://www.midwestagnet.com/Global/story.asp?S=9829372&nav=menu1585_7

OH: Ohio's Top Two Youth Volunteers Selected in 14 th Annual National Awards Program

Contact: Harold Banks – Business Wire – February 10, 2009 Benjamin McMullen, 14, of Chesterland and Beatrice Thaman, 12, of Toledo today were named Ohio's top two youth volunteers for 2009 by The Prudential Spirit of Community Awards, a nationwide program honoring young people for outstanding acts of volunteerism. […] Benjamin, a freshman at West Geauga High School, has raised money and recruited volunteers in an ambitious effort to preserve wetlands in Ohio and protect their animal inhabitants. “Ever since I was a little kid, I have been watching bubbles made by insects on the surface of ponds, and turning over rocks to explore the hidden world underneath,” said Benjamin. One day, he joined a bird walk at a local preserve and learned about wetlands. “Ohio has lost 90 percent of its wetlands to development and farming, so I knew something had to be done soon to stop their further destruction,” he said. For full story, go to: http://www.businesswire.com/portal/site/google/?ndmViewId=news_view&newsId= 20090210005119&newsLang=en

MN: Proposals pour in for spending on prairies, wetlands

By Doug Smith – Minneapolis Star Tribune – February 9, 2009 The Lessard Outdoor Heritage Council received proposals for $95 million in projects to restore, enhance or protect wetland and prairie habitat on Monday -- far exceeding the amount of expected revenue over the next year from the Clean Water, Land and Legacy amendment approved by voters last fall. For full story, go to: http://www.startribune.com/sports/outdoors/39345417.html?elr= KArksi8cyaiUeyD8_o8cyaiUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUU

IA: State seeks more wetlands to fight pollution runoff

By Phillip Brasher – Des Moines Register – February 8, 2009 State agriculture officials think they have the solution to the pollution problems caused by water that drains off the state's farms: Drain the water faster. Shallow ponds like the one created with federal money on a Dallas County farm can destroy much of the pollution that runs off neighboring corn fields and eventually into Des Moines-area water supplies and on to the Gulf of Mexico. For full story, go to: http://www.desmoinesregister.com/article/20090208/NEWS/902080334/-1/LIFE04

IN: Surveyor charged in lake-draining

By Becky Manley – Fort Wayne Journal Gazette – February 5, 2009 Two misdemeanor charges were filed Tuesday against the Steuben County surveyor who officials say partly drained a DeKalb County lake last year. The charges filed in DeKalb County Superior Court against Larry K. Gilbert, 50, each relate to excavation work he ordered at Terry Lake last summer, according to the DeKalb County Prosecutor's Office. He is charged with altering a dam, spillway or outlet to a lake, according to the prosecutor's office. He is also charged with digging a ditch that cut into a freshwater lake without a dam to protect the water level. A hearing has been set for Feb. 20. For full story, go to: http://www.journalgazette.net/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20090205/ LOCAL/302059928/1002

Granholm wants feds to regulate Mich. Wetlands

By John Flesher – Chicago Tribune – February 3, 2009 Gov. Jennifer Granholm on Tuesday recommended scrapping Michigan 's wetland protection law and transferring wetland regulation in the state to the federal government. The Democratic governor announced the plan in her State of the State address, drawing mixed reviews from business and environmental interests. Michigan has operated a separate wetland program since 1984, the only state to do so except New Jersey . If Granholm's proposal wins legislative approval, businesses and property owners wanting to fill or otherwise degrade wetlands for development will seek permits from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office in Detroit instead of from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. For full story, go to: http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-mi-stateofthestate-w,0,5677748.story For an editorial on this subject, go to: http://www.freep.com/article/20090209/OPINION01/902090309

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