350.org International Climate Action Day in Western Massachusetts
This is the place to post
- sustainability workshops & resources
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- eco-updates/announcements regarding sustainability, environmental issues, calls to action, etc.
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Hilltown Families said,
January 3, 2012 at 1:16 pm
West County Resilience Committee
Next Program: January 10, 2012, 7:00pm
Alternative Local Money Systems
On Tuesday, January 10th at 7 to 8:30pm at the Shelburne Senior Center, the West County Resiliency Committee will host a presentation about alternative local money systems and “R”credits.
William Spademan will present his ideas followed by questions and further discussion about ways that we can support our local economy. These issues are so timely with loans so difficult to get, interest rates so variable, and the Occupy Wall Street movement and recession reminding us to examine our personal and community finances and resiliency.
Please feel free to pass on this announcement to friends or newsletters so that others can attend this free event that is designed to help us understand ways we can each make changes that could allow us to become more resilient financially. I would love to give a ride to anyone in the Colrain area who would like to attend. Call me, Emma Stamas, at 413-624-3240 if you want to carpool or need further information.
Hilltown Families said,
December 16, 2011 at 9:27 pm
West County Resilience Committee
Next Program: January 10, 2012, 7:00pm
Alternative Local Money Systems
On Tuesday, January 10th at 7 to 8:30pm at the Shelburne Senior Center, the West County Resiliency Committee will host a presentation about alternative local money systems and “R”credits.
William Spademan will present his ideas followed by questions and further discussion about ways that we can support our local economy. These issues are so timely with loans so difficult to get, interest rates so variable, and the Occupy Wall Street movement and recession reminding us to examine our personal and community finances and resiliency.
Please feel free to pass on this announcement to friends or newsletters so that others can attend this free event that is designed to help us understand ways we can each make changes that could allow us to become more resilient financially. I would love to give a ride to anyone in the Colrain area who would like to attend. Call me, Emma Stamas, at 413-624-3240 if you want to carpool or need further information.
Local Family 01339/01370 said,
December 11, 2011 at 2:44 pm
If interested in the idea/possibility of a community-supported cow, email localfamily@yahoo.com. Thanks!
Hilltown Families said,
November 18, 2011 at 6:33 am
Grow Food Northampton uses cutting-edge method to improve soil of future
garden
Grow Food Northampton (GFN), owner of the new Northampton Community Farm in Florence, MA, is preparing the site of its future organic community garden by applying 80,000 pounds of finely ground rock dust over 12 acres of soil.
We are committed to researching and employing practices that maximize the health of our soil, plants, and gardeners, and minimize energy inputs,˛ says Lilly Lombard, GFNąs Executive Director. łApplying rock dust is a great foundation to a vibrant and sustainable community garden.” The Florence Organic Community Garden, expected to launch in Spring 2012, will provide over 400 garden plots to resident gardeners when fully developed. łAdding rock dust to soils is a way to increase the yield, flavor and shelf life of vegetables and grow nutrient dense food,˛ said Joanna Campe, Executive Director of Remineralize the Earth, an international non-profit based in Northampton that is partnering with GFN in the project.
The remineralization of the Florence Organic Community Garden is one of the first of its kind in the US,˛ said Tom Vanacore, a regional farmer who also owns a company that supplies farms with locally quarried rock dust. łIt shows a public awareness of the connection between the nutritional value of food and the quality of the soil on which it grows.˛ Vanacore delivered GFNąs rock dust from a quarry in Westfield, MA According to Campe, finely ground rock dust has many beneficial properties. “It causes a phenomenal growth of the microorganisms in the soil and increases the nutrient intake of plants,” said Campe. “It also counters the effects of soil acidity, prevents soil erosion, increases storage capacity of the soil, has anti-fungal properties, and when you spray it on plants it repels insects as well, eliminating the need for harmful pesticides. It also makes plants drought and cold resistant.” Quarries produce enormous quantities of rock dust as a waste product that is readily available. The Pioneer Valley is rich in sources of basalt rock dust and glacial gravel, with a rich array of minerals and trace elements needed for healthy soils and plants. łThe nutritional value of commercial, chemically grown food is steadily in decline,˛ said Vanacore. łThis trend is in sharp contrast to nutrient dense production methods incorporating good organic practices and remineralization as a foundation.˛ Campe added, łRestaurant owners like Alice Waters of Chez Panisse in Berkeley, Dan Barber of Blue Hill Restaurant in New York City, and Mr. Chang of Amherst Chinese in Amherst insist on remineralized produce whenever possible for their restaurants because of the increased flavor, shelf life, and nutrients,˛
Grow Food Northampton promotes food security by advancing sustainable agriculture in the Northampton area. Visit: growfoodnorthampton.com
Jim Lobley said,
October 10, 2011 at 6:37 am
“Prepping Your Home for Winter”
a free presentation / Q & A session
by Jim Lobley, Owner of New England Home Remedy
@ Meekins Library, Wiliamsburg
This Thursday, October 13th 7-8:30pm
(other dates to follow)
I’ll be giving a number of free presentations in the coming weeks at local libraries on “Prepping Your Home for Winter.” These will be engaging, informative talks on practical things you can do this winter to conserve heat and keep the weather out. We’ll cover basic principles of building shell or “envelope” construction, including roofs – why they leak, and what to do about them, how to minimize ice dams, how to make your own “winserts” (low-cost, reusable thermal panes for your windows), and a simple way to spot and seal air leaks around your home. My presentation will run about 45 minutes, with another 45 minutes devoted to questions about your home and particular set of circumstances. I’ll be handing out a list of local and online resources, as well as a coupon for 15% off a new service we’ll be offering this winter called “Pinpoint Air-Sealing and Insulation.”
Here are the dates and times:
Meekins Library, Williamsburg
This Thursday, October 13th, 7-8:30pm
Forbes Library, Northampton
Sat., October 22nd, 10-11:30am
Belding Library, Ashfield
Wed., October 26th, 7-8:30pm
Hope to see you there!
Hilltown Families said,
October 3, 2011 at 1:05 pm
Free Solar Energy Workshop
MA State has one of the most lucrative solar programs in the country! Representatives from a local solar energy company (based in Ludlow) will show you how to get started with solar electric (PV). They will explain how the technology works, how much it costs, what incentiv…es and rebates are available to you from State and Federal governments, and all about Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs). Come to this free presentation to learn how you can start turning the sun into money today!
Where: Leverett Library, 75 Montague Road, Leverett, MA
When: Saturday, October 8
1:30 – 2:30 PM
More information: 1-866-312-7673
Hilltown Families said,
September 26, 2011 at 3:42 pm
Presentation on green home construction to be held at Lenox Town Hall on October 5
On the morning of October 5 the Lenox Town Hall at 6 Walker Street will be the site for a public presentation on the LEED for Homes rating system given by Beth Paulson from the Center for EcoTechnology (CET) of Pittsfield, Northampton, and Springfield. The educational event is appropriate for building contractors, architects, individuals, non-profit developers, and others interested in the residential rating system developed by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC).
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating system incorporates high performance and green features into residential projects to create healthier, more comfortable, and more durable and resource- efficient homes. LEED certified homes require third-party oversight and technical assistance through a LEED for Homes Provider such as CET who conducts inspections and performance-testing for each home. The widely respected yet rigorous program allows homebuilders and developers using LEED standards to differentiate their homes as representative of green building best practices.
“Following the Green Building Open House tour by the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association scheduled for October 1,” explained Peggy MacLeod, Green Building marketing rep for the Center for EcoTechnology, “CET is pleased to provide thought-provoking education for the public, home builders, and architects about the features and collaborative process of building green-certified homes.” Peggy continued.
Of the three dozen single- and multi-family LEED certified homes in the four counties of western Massachusetts, Ms. Paulson stated that, “No two LEED certified residential projects are alike. The scoring system offers a variety of ways to earn points for green features,” she said, “but the individual points selected and the techniques used by homeowners and project teams make each project really interesting and unique.”
In addition to being a certified Home Energy (HERS) Rater at CET and working with a wide variety of both LEED for Homes and ENERGY STAR projects, Beth teaches home-performance contractor trainings for CET and the MassGreen Initiative. After 20 years of serving in various building-science based programs at CET, Ms. Paulson has a broad knowledge of green building principles and practice. In addition, Ms. Paulson received her M.A. in Landscape Architecture and a B.S. in Environmental Design from University of Massachusetts.
LEED® for Homes is a third-party certification system for high-performance green homes. Developed and administered by USGBC, LEED for Homes awards points to projects in seven categories of environmental performance: Location & Linkages, Sustainable Sites, Water Efficiency, Indoor Environmental Quality, Energy & Atmosphere, Homeowner Awareness, and Innovation and Design. For more information about LEED for Homes, visit http://www.thegreenhomeguide.org.
The Lenox presentation begins at 9:00 A.M with registration and a continental breakfast and continues until 11:00 A.M. There is a suggested donation of $10-$20 for the presentation and if interested, architects may receive 1 CEU HW AIA credit for attending the session.
For more information about the program, contact Peggy MacLeod at peggym@cetonline.org / 413-586-7350 x226.
The Center for EcoTechnology helps people carry out their daily activities with less environmental impact. We provide practical solutions that save energy, materials and money and have a positive impact on our environment and commu nity. We serve residents, business and communities in the areas of Energy Efficiency and Green Building, Green Com munities and Businesses, and through our retail store – EcoBuilding Bargains.
We’re a 35-year-old non-profit organization with offices in Pittsfield, Northampton and Springfield. Visit http://www.cetonline.org to learn more.
The Center for EcoTechnology – we make green make sense.
Free Solar Energy Workshop said,
September 23, 2011 at 11:08 am
MA State has one of the most lucrative solar programs in the country! Representatives from a local solar energy company (based in Ludlow) will explain how you can get started with solar electric (PV). They will explain how the technology works, how much it costs, what incentives and rebates are available to you from State and Federal governments, and all about Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs). Come to this presentation to learn how you can start turning the sun into money today!
Where: Amherst Jones Library
43 Amity Street, Amherst, MA
When: Tuesday, September 27
6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
More information: 1-866-312-7673
Hilltown Families said,
September 19, 2011 at 12:04 pm
Creating Greenfield’s Future: Our Food, Economy, and Community
Sat, Nov 5, 8:30a-4:30p
Greenfield Community College, Main Campus
Greening Greenfield Energy Committee presents a day-long forum for citizens, students and business leaders to discuss:
How do we make good local food affordable?
How do we develop a sustainable local economy?
How do we enhance our health and well-being?
Keynote: BEN HEWETT, author “The Town that Food Saved”
Free childcare at the YMCA Lunch and refreshments included
$25 Early reg fee (by Oct 14). $10 Scholarships (Students and others). $30 Reg fee Oct 14-Oct 28. $35 On-site Reg fee
More info: http://greeninggreenfield.org/
Hilltown Families said,
September 19, 2011 at 6:40 am
Green Building Tour & Open House
Saturday, October 1, 2011 | 10am-4pm | Free
Bullitt Reservation, 332 Bullitt Rd. Ashfield, MA 413.628.4485
With it’s deep energy retrofit, the old farmhouse at the Bullitt Reservation will be part of the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association’s Green Building Tour. Come see how energy-efficient and sustainable technologies can lessen your impact on the world while helping save money. It’s free to all. Contact 413-628-4485 x102 or email mwamsley@ttor.org
Out with the Cold: Choosing the Right Insulation for your house
Tuesday, October 18, 2011 | 6:30pm-8:30pm
Bullitt Reservation, 332 Bullitt Rd. Ashfield, MA 413.628.4485
Without proper insulation, four walls and a roof don’t mean much against a New England winter. Our panel of experts will help you sort through options, from the cutting-edge to the tried-and-true, when it comes to making old homes both comfortable and energy-efficient. Free to Members of the Trustees, non-members $5 call 413-628-4485 x102 or email mwamsley@ttor.org
Hilltown Families said,
September 19, 2011 at 4:44 am
Worm Composting Workshop
With Ben Goldberg
River Valley Market
October 6th, 6:30 – 8
At this interactive session, you will learn how to set up and manage
various kinds of worm bins, care and feeding of the worms, a little
worm ecology, and separating and using castings. The workshop is for
all levels of interest. Bring your questions and experiences to share.
Free & open to the public
Please register in advance
betsy@rivervalleymarket.coop OR
413-584-2665 x328
River Valley Market is located at
330 North King Street in Northampton, Massachusetts
http://wehaveworms.com
Hilltown Families said,
September 3, 2011 at 5:43 am
West County Resilience Committee
Next Program: September 6, 2011, 7:00pm
Reducing Winter Heating Costs
September 6 Meeting:
Are you worried about winter heating costs? Do you want to increase the energy efficiency of your home or apartment for your own comfort or so that you can be less wasteful or reduce global warming? Come to the Tuesday, Sept. 6 West County Resiliency Committee Meeting at 7pm to 8:30pm at Shelburne Senior Center where Cynthia Fand will present an overview of the projects that Coop Power and the local SWEET group are offering for free or low cost. Energy Benefits Counselor, Emma Stamas, will also answer your questions. Snacks will be provided form local gardens.
Upcoming October 4 Meeting:
On Tuesday, October 4, 2011 the topic will be similar but include more information about other energy efficiency organizations such as CET (Center for Ecological Technology) and MassSAVE which offer energy efficiency solutions and programs to help you cope with rising heating and electricity costs. This discussion will also take place at Shelburne Senior Center at 7pm and everyone is welcome to come and bring friends. The West County Resiliency Committee feels that this topic is so important and vast that we will devote two meetings to answer your questions and help our community become more energy resilient as we prepare for cold weather and possible power outages.
Alee said,
August 26, 2011 at 8:13 am
As part of Berkshire Grown’s Preserving the Bounty, these two canning classes are taught by nationally touring cookbook author Sherri Brooks Vinton, author of Storey’s bestselling preserving book, Put ‘em Up! Sherri will teach canning newbies how easy it is to preserve the fresh flavors of the summer to feed your families with local foods throughout the winter. Take home a jar of blueberry jam and spicy carrot pickles, and learn the techniques to preserve your garden harvest and the farmers’ market bounties.
Apartment Therapy’s The Kitchn says, “Ever since laying my eyes on this book months ago, this has been my go-to canning resource. It’s not only informative–it’s inspiring. And sometimes when we’re looking down a huge bag of green beans or zucchini from the farmers market and not sure what to do with it, inspiration is welcome.”
Saturday, August 27th (8:30 – 10:30 am)
Put ‘Em Up Canning Workshop: Quick Blueberry Jam and Spicy Carrot Pickles
Gramercy Bistro (@MASS MoCA), North Adams, MA
Fee: $30, or special $45 includes a copy of the author’s book Put ‘Em Up
Led by Sherri Brooks Vinton, author of Put ‘Em Up
RSVP at sarah@gramercybistro.com or 413.663.5300
Saturday, August 27th (4 – 6 pm)
Put ‘Em Up Canning Workshop: Quick Blueberry Jam and Spicy Carrot Pickles
The Nutrition Center, Great Barrington, MA
Fee: $30, or special $45 includes a copy of the author’s book Put ‘Em Up
Led by Sherri Brooks Vinton, author of Put ‘Em Up
RSVP at info@thenutritioncenter.org or 413.429.8110
Visit http://berkshiregrown.org/preserving-the-bounty-2011/ for a complete listing of Preserving the Bounty events.
Hilltown Families said,
August 23, 2011 at 12:26 pm
West County Resilience Committee
Next Program: September 6, 2011, 7:00pm
Reducing Winter Heating Costs
September 6 Meeting:
Are you worried about winter heating costs? Do you want to increase the energy efficiency of your home or apartment for your own comfort or so that you can be less wasteful or reduce global warming? Come to the Tuesday, Sept. 6 West County Resiliency Committee Meeting at 7pm to 8:30pm at Shelburne Senior Center where Cynthia Fand will present an overview of the projects that Coop Power and the local SWEET group are offering for free or low cost. Energy Benefits Counselor, Emma Stamas, will also answer your questions. Snacks will be provided form local gardens.
Upcoming October 4 Meeting:
On Tuesday, October 4, 2011 the topic will be similar but include more information about other energy efficiency organizations such as CET (Center for Ecological Technology) and MassSAVE which offer energy efficiency solutions and programs to help you cope with rising heating and electricity costs. This discussion will also take place at Shelburne Senior Center at 7pm and everyone is welcome to come and bring friends. The West County Resiliency Committee feels that this topic is so important and vast that we will devote two meetings to answer your questions and help our community become more energy resilient as we prepare for cold weather and possible power outages.
Leslie Edwards said,
August 15, 2011 at 1:16 pm
Last week to register for…
Learn the Art of Canning: Low-Cost “Preserving the Harvest” Class Offered at Southern Hilltowns Adult Education Center
On Monday August 22 & 29, 6-8 pm, Southern Hilltowns Adult Education Center will offer a class on hot-water bath canning at the Middlefield Town Hall kitchen. The class will be instructed by local food enthusiast Molly Merrett and participants will learn how to can tomatoes, peaches, jams and salsas and will be able to take home one jar of each item. The class will review safety precautions and equipment as well as other preservation methods. Materials fee: $15 per person. Please register in advance by calling (413) 685-1052.
The Southern Hilltowns Adult Education Center is located at 12 Littleville Rd. in Huntington. The SHAEC is a program of the U. Mass Labor/Management Workplace Education Program and is funded by a Community Development Block Grant from the Mass Dept. of Housing and Community Development through the lead town of Russell, in partnership with Chester, Huntington, and Middlefield.
Layla Hazen said,
August 12, 2011 at 1:33 pm
Come join expert gardener Hope Guardenier at the Bullitt Reservation’s garden classroom for a discussion and demonstration of a variety of food storage techniques, from root cellars and freezing to dry beans and dehydrators. You’ll get information on which crops store best, the conditions they need, and how to make sure your harvest is available to you even in the dark months of winter. New and experienced gardener’s welcome– bring your questions or share your successful strategies and tips.
Wednesday, August 17th, 6 PM
Bullitt Reservation, 332 Bullitt Rd. , Ashfield 01330,
Free, but please register in advance by calling 413.628.4485 x 4 or emailing lhazen@ttor.org
Thank you!
Michelle Parrish said,
August 8, 2011 at 9:01 am
North Amherst Community Farm presents “Building Sustainability Together–Skills for Kids and Families.”
Wed. Aug. 10th 10am-noon Have You Any Wool? Meet the sheep and make some felt.
Wed. Aug. 17th 10am-noon Worm Bin Composting. Make a worm bin and bring home red worms.
Sat. Aug. 20th 2-4pm Seed Saving–Plant the Future. Collect and bring home herb, flower, and vegetable seeds.
Wed. Aug. 24th 10am-noon Harvest the Sun. Make your own solar oven.
Workshops will be held rain or shine at North Amherst Community Farm 1089 North Pleasant St. Amherst, MA. For kids ages 5 and up accompanied by a caretaker. $10 caretaker and child together, $3 each additional child. To register contact Michelle at programs@nacfonline.org or call 413-624-6223. For more info go to http://www.nacfonline.org
Hilltown Families said,
August 5, 2011 at 4:37 pm
Solar Thermal Workshop from CISA and MA Farm Energy Program
Monday, August 22nd, 6:00-8:00pm, CISA and the MA Farm Energy Program will team up to offer a workshop on Solar Thermal energy for farmers.
Come learn the basics of energy efficient solar hot water systems with the Massachusetts Farm Energy Program and system installers, including The Solar Store and Coop Power. We will discuss system and equipment options, best management practices for different farm sectors, how to work with an installer, funding opportunities, and take a look at an on-site system. Find out how the MA Farm Energy Program can be a resource for your farm energy project from planning to implementation.
The workshop will be held at Crossroads Farm, 1231 West Road, Ashfield. Snacks will be served, suggested donation $5. Please RSVP by Friday, August 19th to Devon Whitney-Deal at 413-665-7100 x22 or devon@buylocalfood.org.
The Massachusetts Farm Energy Program (MFEP) is a program of Berkshire-Pioneer RC&D, with support from MDAR and USDA-NRCS. This energy efficiency workshop is supported in part by USDA/Risk Management Agency and by individual contributors and Local Hero members.
Founded in 1993, CISA is a nationally recognized community organization comprised of farmers, consumers, and professionals working together to sustain agriculture, strengthen the local economy, preserve the unique rural character of our communities, and enhance the well-being of western Massachusetts. Located in South Deerfield, CISA is the creator of numerous innovative programs, including Senior FarmShare, the Pioneer Valley Women in Agriculture Network, and the Be a Local Hero, Buy Locally Grown® public awareness campaign. Learn more about CISA at http://www.buylocalfood.org or call (413) 665-7100.
Rebecca Fletcher said,
August 2, 2011 at 11:32 am
Sunday, September 11, 2011 8:30am-5pm
TOGETHER ON THE LAND TOUR: Register today for this multi-site guided tour of options for affordable, ecological, community living in the Pioneer Valley. Visit co-ops, co-housing, community land trusts, farms and more! Co-sponsored by the Cooperative Development Institute, Co-op Power, Equity Trust, Mount Grace Land Conservation Trust & Valley Community Land Trust. Pre-Registration Required. $20 per ticket, discounts & scholarships available. FIND OUT MORE & REGISTER ONLINE AT VCLT.ORG/TOUR
http://VCLT.ORG/TOUR
Jamie said,
June 29, 2011 at 9:00 am
FREE “In Transition” Film Showing TONIGHT @ 7:15PM, Forbes Library, Northampton
Want to learn more about the Transition Town Movement? Worried about peak oil? Want to get involved in the transition from oil dependence to local resilience in your community? Considering registering for the official Training for Transition in Northampon on July 9th and 10th, but want to learn more first?
Then Transition Northampton welcomes you to attend a FREE screening of “In Transition,” a documentary about the global Transition Town Movement, TONIGHT @ 7:15PM in the Forbes Library Community Room. Come meet some of the Transition Northampton Initiating Committee members, as well as other members of your community! Movie runs for 50 minutes, with an informal discussion to follow. Light refreshments will be provided!
–
Please also do not forget to register for our upcoming training. I would like to remind everyone that we are very fortunate to be offering this training at a VERY low cost (sliding scale $85-$165 [$165 is the normal cost of the training]), and to encourage those who are interested in taking the training to register as soon as possible. The minimum cost of the training will bump up from $85 to $100 at the end of June, and since we are all aware that money is tight these days, please do not hesitate to sign up ASAP. Any amount that you are able to pay over the minimum will go to support the attendance of low-income individuals, so please be as generous as you can.
TRAINING for TRANSITION July 9-10, 2011 Northampton, Massachusetts
This participatory two-day workshop is for anyone wishing to explore the many dimensions of “transitioning” and “resilience”, & to support local action & collaboration in their community.
The Training for Transition course helps you:
- Explore ways of increasing community resilience
- Learn to describe the challenges of Peak Oil and resource depletion, climate change, and economic instability in ways
that bring people together and inspire action
- Receive tools for community outreach, education and creating shared vision
- Learn how to facilitate community collaboration — supporting existing leadership and expanding the number and
diversity of people involved
- Meet others in your region who share your concerns and want to transition to greater stability and security
Become a part of a rapidly growing positive, inspirational, global movement!
Who should attend: People interested in learning ways to transition their community, and people already creating a Transition Initiative who want to network and deepen their work.
Instructors: Tina Clarke & Alistair Lough, certified Transition Trainers
Cost: Western MA Sliding Scale: $85 student/low-income – $165 (full cost). If you hail from outside Franklin, Hampshire, Hampden or Berkshire counties (western MA): please pay $165 (full cost). Contributions beyond your fee helps folks with low incomes to attend! After June 30th, sliding scale starts at $100. Cost includes materials, breakfast & lunch.
To Register:
Send a note and your registration fee ($165 if outside of western MA, sliding scale if from WMA) plus scholarship donations (if you can) to: Catherine Ratte, Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC), 60 Congress Street, Springfield, MA, 01104-3419.
Make check out to: Pioneer Valley Regional Ventures Center. Contact Catherine at:cratte@pvpc.org Phone: 413-781-6045, x311
Schedule: Saturday 9:00 a.m. Registration & Meeting Each Other. Workshop both days: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Questions? Contact Organizers:
Bethany Webster webster.bethany08@gmail.com, 401-330-6288 (cell) and
Jamie Pottern: jpottern@gmail.com, 301-943-2570 (cell)
(Workshop limited to 45 people. More workshops coming. Info: http://www.TransitionUS.org or TinaClarke@TransitionNetwork.org, 413-658-8165)
Jamie said,
June 22, 2011 at 11:11 am
TRAINING for TRANSITION
July 9-10, 2011
Northampton, Massachusetts
The Transition movement in the U.K. ignited a global conversation and sharing about positive, creative actions to build community resilience in the face of economic instability, energy cost increases, worsening social inequity, and environmental crisis. Transition U.S. (www.TransitionUS.org) is offering the Training for Transition course developed by the Transition Network (www.TransitionNetwork.org) and taught in over 30 countries. The course is an in-depth experiential introduction to the ideas, process and practices that have inspired tens of thousands of people in hundreds of communities, and catalyzed a rapidly-growing global network. This participatory two-day workshop is for anyone wishing to explore the many dimensions of “transitioning” and “resilience”, and to support local action and collaboration in their community.
At the Training for Transition course, you will:
_ Explore ways of increasing community resilience
_ Learn to describe the challenges of Peak Oil and resource depletion, climate change, and economic instability in ways that bring people together and inspire action
_ Receive tools for community outreach, education and creating shared vision
_ Learn how to facilitate community collaboration — supporting existing leadership and expanding the number and diversity of people involved
_ Meet others in your region who share your concerns and want to transition to greater stability and security
_ Become a part of a rapidly growing positive, inspirational, global movement!
Who should attend: People interested in learning ways to transition their community, and people already creating a Transition Initiative who want to network and deepen their work.
Instructors: Tina Clarke & Alistair Lough, certified Transition Trainers
Cost: Western MA Sliding Scale: $85 student/low-income – $165 (full cost). If you hail from outside Franklin, Hampshire, Hampden or Berkshire counties (western MA): please pay $165 (full cost). Contributions beyond your fee helps folks with low incomes to attend! After June 30th, sliding scale starts at $100. Cost includes materials, breakfast & lunch.
To Register: Send a note and your registration fee ($165 if outside of western MA, sliding scale if from WMA) plus scholarship donations (if you can) to: Catherine Ratte, Pioneer Valley Planning Commission (PVPC), 60 Congress Street, Springfield, MA, 011043419. Make check out to: Pioneer Valley Regional Ventures Center. Contact Catherine at: cratte@pvpc.org Phone: 413-781-6045, x311
Schedule: Saturday 9:00 a.m. Registration & Meeting Each Other. Workshop both days: 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Questions? Contact Organizers Bethany Webster and Jamie Pottern
Bethany Webster: webster.bethany08@gmail.com, 401-330-6288 (cell) Jamie Pottern: jpottern@gmail.com, 301-943-2570 (cell)
[Workshop limited to 45 people. More workshops coming.
Info: http://www.TransitionUS.org or TinaClarke@TransitionNetwork.org, 413-658-8165]
Hilltown Families said,
June 16, 2011 at 12:10 pm
June 2011
Imagine a summer without watermelons, a Halloween without pumpkins, or a Thanksgiving without cranberries. These and over 100 other fruits and vegetables can only grow with the help of native bees and other pollinators. Yet bees are in trouble. Along with honeybees, many native bee populations are on the decline here in Massachusetts and worldwide, from loss of habitat, gardening and landscaping practices, pesticide and herbicide use, and disease. They might not be as easy as songbirds and turtles to like, but native bees need our help now.
To help people understand our native bees and make better choices about our lawn and garden care, the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service and other bee advocates are celebrating National Pollinator Week June 20-26, 2011.
“Bees of the Montague Plains: Some of Our Native Pollinators” will be held Tuesday June 21, 2011 at 7 PM at the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regional Office at 300 Westgate Center Drive, Hadley, Massachusetts.
Come hear native bee biologist Joan Milam explore the world of native bees on the Montague Plains. Visitors to the event will also be able to enjoy hands-on microscope exhibits of bees, information about landscaping suggestions, information on U.S. Department of Agriculture funding and technical support for larger pollinator habitat projects by farmers and landowners, and directions for building simple bee houses.
Other events during the week at the USFWS Hadley Regional Office Center include ongoing showing of the short native bee domestication video “Honey For The Maya” and a showing of “Queen of the Sun” on the global honeybee crisis. Visitors to the Hadley USFWS Regional Office can also see the Pollinator Garden, which will be expanded this summer.
Calendar of Pollinator Events
Tuesday June 21 “Bees of the Montague Plains: Some of Our Native Pollinators” – Presentation by native bee biologist Joan Milam, hands-on microscope exhibits, information about native pollinator conservation, 7 PM at U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regional Office, 300 Westgate Center Drive, Hadley, MA
Wednesday June 22 Pollinator Garden Expansion ceremony, 12 noon at back plaza, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Regional Office, 300 Westgate Center Drive, Hadley, MA
Thursday June 23 “Queen of The Sun”-film on the global honeybee crisis, 7 PM, seating is first come, first served-auditorium at US Fish and Wildlife Service Regional Office, 300 Westgate Center Drive Hadley, MA.
The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals, and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov/northeast. Connect with our Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/usfwsnortheast, follow our tweets at http://www.twitter.com/usfwsnortheast, watch our YouTube Channel at http://www.youtube.com/usfws and download photos from our Flickr page at http://www.flickr.com/photos/usfwsnortheast.
Hilltown Families said,
June 4, 2011 at 7:25 am
Creating Jobs in Our Local Community West County Resilience Committee Meeting
June 7, 2011, 7:00 – 9:00pm
Shelburne Senior Center
5 Main Street, Shelburne Falls, MA
Shelburne Falls, MA
At 7pm on Tuesday, June 7, the West County Resiliency Committee will have a free and open discussion about how each of us can help to create jobs in our local community. Emma Stamas will lead the discussion based on the recent book by Ben Hewitt entitled,” The Town That Food Saved”.
In addition there will be time to add your own ideas and learn about other projects that are helping to move money into our local economy and keep it here instead of sending it to off to far away places or into the bank accounts of huge corporations. The free meeting will be at the Shelburne Senior Center and all are welcome to attend.
Our July meeting is tentatively set for 6 to 8:30pm on Tuesday, July 12, and will be a locavore potluck picnic supper, more details to follow. We hope that families with children will attend so save the date and start thinking about what you could make with some of the wonderful local produce we will have available in July!
Hilltown Families said,
May 28, 2011 at 5:07 am
Composting at Home Workshop
Saturday, June 25th, 9:30 am-12:30pm
Land Of Providence, Route 5, Holyoke
Compost can’t be beat as a means to enrich your soil and keep your garden or farms healthy and productive. Maintaining compost systems reduces the amount of trash produced in your home. You don’t need to be a green-thumb, or even have a yard or garden to benefit from composting. Many people keep small compost systems, maintained by earthworms, beneath their sinks. Composting, indoors or out, is a very clean, efficient way to turn food waste into lovely, nutrient-rich soil. If you have never tried composting and would like help setting up a system that works for you, join us for this fun workshop. Register at 413-532-1631 x14 or email westregion@ttor.org
Hilltown Families said,
April 17, 2011 at 7:23 am
Green Action In Northampton Schools (GAINS) Program
The Green Action in Northampton Schools (GAINS) Program is an innovative environmental program that brings real world problems into Northampton’s schools and engages students and other members of our school community in critical and creative thinking to address those problems. The focus is on education about sustainability and on organizing students to learn about and take action towards sustainability. Green teams are organized in each school to lead the school in identifying projects to work on. These initiatives will then be used to develop cross-disciplinary learning experiences in the classroom. GAINS is a collaboration between concerned citizens, the Northampton Energy and Sustainability Officer, the Waste Management Supervisor of Northampton’s DPW, The Hitchcock Center for the Environment, the Center for Ecological Technology and the Principals, Teachers, Staff and Students of the Northampton Public Schools. The project will receive $15,000 for one year. [Source: Northampton Education Foundation]
Hilltown Families said,
April 5, 2011 at 4:37 am
Saturday, April 9th in Florence, MA
Register NOW for the “Organic Lawns for Homeowners” workshop on Saturday, April 9 from 1-4 pm at the Look Memorial Park, 300 No. Main St., Florence, taught by NOFA Accredited Organic Land Care Professional Bernadette Giblin of Safeground Organic Landcare. This workshop is part of “NOFA/Mass Statewide Organic Lawn Days,” to educate homeowners in all aspects of organic lawn installation, maintenance and best cultural practices. Funded by the Toxics Use Reduction Institute of UMass Lowell.
Workshop fee: $25. For more information or to register contact Kathy Litchfield at (413) 773-3830 or Kathy@nofamass.org
For details on this workshop and others across MA,
see: http://www.nofamass.org/programs/landcare/index.php
Hilltown Families said,
April 1, 2011 at 4:42 pm
Pickling workshop Sat. 4/9 in West Cummington
Preserve vegetables the old-fashioned no-vinegar, no-heat way with friendly bacteria cultures.
Saturday, April 9 from 2:30 to 5:00 pm
West Cummington Parish House
27 W. Main St. West Cummington
$20 (Pre-registration hoped)
Pre-register at http://www.sarahstockwell.com
(PayPal accepted) or call 634-8062
Some pre-registrations needed by 4/5 to ensure the workshop runs.
Meg Taylor said,
April 1, 2011 at 4:06 pm
The 4th annual Valley Coop Tour
Sponsored by the Pioneer Valley Backyard Chicken Association
April 10, 2011
12 noon to 6 pm
Nine innovative coops featured in Holyoke, Pelham, Amherst, Northampton, Florence, Haydenville, and Williamsburg. Topics discussed to include coop requirements, zoning regulations, breeds, egg production, predator control, hen nutrition and health, and much more! More details and tour map can be found at pioneervalleybackyardchickenassociation.weebly.com This is a FREE event. Beginners and children welcome. Car pooling and biking encouraged (but please leave canine friends at home).
Hilltown Families said,
April 1, 2011 at 11:27 am
Home composting workshop scheduled
On Saturday, April 9, the Center for EcoTechnology will offer a free home composting workshop at the First Congregational Church at 906 Main Street in Williamstown from 10 a.m. to 11: 30 a.m.
“Composting is easy and there are year round benefits,” says Jamie Cahillane, Recycling Services and Waste Reduction Program Manager at the Center for EcoTechnology.
Attendees will participate in a hands-on demonstration of how to build an efficient and active compost pile. A good home compost system can improve lawns, gardens and houseplants; help the planet by reducing household waste volume; and save money by reducing waste costs and saving the expense of having to purchase topsoil or compost in bags.
Support for this workshop comes from the USDA, Rural Development. This workshop is co-sponsored by the Williamstown COOL committee. Registration is required and will be capped at no more than 30 participants. For more information or to register, contact Avie Maloney at aviem@cetonline.org or call 413-445-4556 ext. 30.
The Center for EcoTechnology is an equal opportunity service provider and employer.
Hilltown Families said,
March 24, 2011 at 4:49 am
Tuesday, April 5th in Shelburne Falls, MA (FREE)
Climate Resilient Farms and Gardens
West County Resiliency Group Meeting
Tuesday, April 5, 2011 7:00-8:30pm
We welcome the community to join us on Tuesday April 5, from 7 – 8:30 p.m. at the West County Resiliency Group meeting at the Shelburne Senior Center (7 Main St., Shelburne Falls) to discuss how each of us can develop Climate Resilient Farms and Gardens. The session will be led by Eli Rogosa of the Heritage Grain Conservancy based in Colrain. We will discuss how to implement water catchment systems for rainwater harvesting and how to enhance agrobiodiversity with both drought hardy and rain tolerant world grains and vegetables. Seed samples will be available for participants.
Eli and her husband Cr Lawn manage the Colrain Seed Farm, a center for biodiversity. Eli worked for 10 years in the Mideast implementing dryland water catchment and ecological wastewater treatment systems on traditional organic farms, and coordinated biodivesity cooperation involving the Israel, Palestine and Jordan genebanks, with traditional farmers. She is the coordinator of the USDA-funded program Northeast Organic Wheat based at UMass to restore grain biodiversity to New England farms and gardens. See: growseed.org for further information.
Hilltown Families said,
March 21, 2011 at 1:10 pm
Looking for a place to bring used and/or old electronics? Jennifer Meighan found a Western MA resource: ‘Gold Circuit E-Cycling’ in Ludlow. Phone is (413) 328-3187. Thanks for sharing this local resource, Jennifer!
https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=10150165358771418&id=1314182075
Hilltown Families said,
March 18, 2011 at 7:39 am
Building Your Backyard Garden
Saturday, April 9th| 10AM
Bullitt Reservation, Ashfield, MA | Free
Join us at the Bullitt Reservation on April 9th at 10am for a garden building workshop featuring sheet mulching techniques, raised bed building, and garden soil composition. Participants will learn methods for easily creating a garden with no digging or rototilling. Concurrent children’s activities will be offered. Free. Space is limited, so please register in advance with Layla at 413.628.4485 or lhazen@ttor.org.
Hilltown Families said,
March 18, 2011 at 4:52 am
Friday & Saturday, April 15th & 16th, 2011 in Sheblurne Falls, MA (>$)
Pothole Pictures screens “Vanishing of the Bees” documentary on April 15 – 16
Panel of local bee experts to discuss film, local writers contribute to support local farms
(Shelburne Falls, Mass.) On Friday and Saturday, April 15 and 16 at 7:30 pm, Pothole Pictures will present two screenings of the documentary film “Vanishing of the Bees” in the historic 400-seat Memorial Hall Theater, located at 51 Bridge Street in downtown Shelburne Falls. Each showing is preceded by a half hour of “music at the movies” donated by local musicians. On Friday, April 15 at 7:00 pm, the Back Porch Pickers play old timey music. On Saturday, April 16 at 7:00 pm, Zadjedno presents men’s acappella songs from the Dalmation coast of Croatia. And on both evenings, Shelburne Falls poet John Berkowitz will read his short poem on the subject prior to the film. A discussion panel with local beekeepers will take place only on Saturday, April 15 following the film. Movies are $6 adults and $4 for children.
Since 2006, honeybees have been disappearing from their hives in an alarming and perplexing crisis called “colony collapse disorder” (CCD) which threatens as much as 1/3 of the food we eat, including most fruits & vegetables. This compelling documentary investigates CCD with a scientific slant that also emphasizes the mythic and spiritual sense of the bee, resulting in a film with all the suspense of the best mysteries and dramas and the hard information of serious investigative pieces, and a wide perspective that expands into more sustainable approaches to living, organic farming, and alternative beekeeping methods. The 86-minute documentary, made in 2009, is narrated by actress, Ellen Page (“Juno”) and directed by George Langworthy and Maryam Henein.
On Saturday, April 15, the audience is invited to discuss the film with a panel of local experts. Dan Conlon, president of the Mass. Beekeepers Association and owner of Warm Colors Apiary in Deerfield, will join Dr. Rick Intres of Bear Meadow Apiary in Ashfield to present their perspective on the film and answer questions. Dr. Intres is president of the Franklin County Beekeepers. The film’s executive producer, Peter Heller will round out the panel.
“We decided to show ‘Vanishing of the Bees’ at the start of the spring planting season, to bring a fascinating topic to our occasional community film discussions, and to remind ourselves how connected we all are to the web of life and food that bees help create,” said Pothole Pictures volunteer, Andrew Baker. “We live in an agricultural region filled with orchards, dairies and organic farms that we all value and try hard to support with local purchasing. Those farms depend on bees for pollination and we, in turn, rely on these small buzzing helpers for the food we eat. The film helps show us how fragile and interconnected our world is.”
The Shelburne Falls Area Business Association (SFABA) and Communities Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) are two area organizations working to support local agriculture that are co-sponsoring this presentation of “Vanishing of the Bees.” SFABA includes 21 farms and agricultural businesses among its members and has organized an innovative partnership between six Shelburne Falls restaurants and groceries to compost their food waste at a local farm, diverting it from landfills to productive use. CISA coordinates the now-famous “Local Hero” campaign supporting purchase of local farm products. It has recently helped launch Pioneer Valley GROW, a collaborative effort to provide financing for local post-harvest value-added food production.
Bear Mountain Apiary and Warm Colors Apiary will have honey available for purchase in the lobby before or after the movie. Local authors, Anne Woodhull and Shelley Rotner, will also have their children’s book “The Buzz on Bees” available in the lobby. The Northampton area authors were motivated by the film and their concern about colony collapse disorder to write a book about the subject that is accessible to elementary school age children. It was published in May, 2010 by Holiday House.
Pothole Pictures is a volunteer-run community movie theater that has been showing classic, independent and locally made films on the big screen in a historic theater since 1995. A special feature of its film series are “meet the director” presentations which engage the audience with people involved in the making of the movies it shows. Movie tickets can be purchased in advance (Five tickets for $20) or at the door ($6 adults, $4 children). For more information, contact Fred DeVecca at (413) 625-2896 or visit the web site at http://www.shelburnefallsmemorialhall.org.
Hilltown Families said,
February 23, 2011 at 5:38 am
Workshops at River Valley Market (Northampton, MA)
Seed Starting Workshop
Saturday, March 5, 2011 from 10-11:30 am
Join co-op workshop favorites Billie and Sandy to learn how to start seeds for your summer garden. The workshop is free, but space is limited. To reserve your place, contact Member Services Manager Betsy Powell: betsy@rivervalleymarket.com
Green Burial Forum
Tuesday, March 29, 2011 from 6:30-7:30 pm
Come learn about the green burial movement, which strives to provide a beautiful, natural environment for those who wish to go back to a simple and ecological way of restoring death to its rightful place in the life cycle.The workshop is free, but space is limited. To reserve your place, contact Betsy: betsy@rivervalleymarket.com
Leslie Edwards said,
February 16, 2011 at 1:10 pm
Introducing the Self-Sufficiency Series at SHAEC
Southern Hilltowns Adult Education Center (SHAEC) brings inspiring “do it yourself” workshops to the hilltowns with:
“Preparing for your Spring Garden,” with instructor Molly Merrett, Mondays, Feb 21 & 28, 6-8 pm
and “Raising Backyard Chickens,” with Alicia & Ross Hackerson of Gray Dog’s Farm, Sat, Feb 26, 9-12 (call for class site)
Workshops occur in Huntington, MA and are free; preference for space goes to those who live in the towns our grant serves (Huntington, Russell, Middlefield and Chester)
To register, please contact SHAEC at 413-667-0217.
Cherylann Richards said,
February 15, 2011 at 1:03 pm
Co-op Conversations
We Want to Hear From You! Please join us at one of four small group conversations to share ideas with each other about the progress that has been made in the last year and the work still to be accomplished to transition the Old Creamery into a community owned co-op. Attendance is limited to 15. Advanced sign-up is required.
Tuesday March 1 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Thursday March 3 6:00 – 8:00 pm
Saturday March 5 1:30 – 3:30 pm (to be held at the Cummington
Community House with Childcare available)
Monday March 7 7:00 – 9:00 pm
The conversations will be held at the Old Creamery Sustainability Library on the second floor of the Old Creamery (except March 5)
RSVP Required
Please contact the Outreach Coordinator Outreach@oldcreamery.coop or leave a message for Alice or Amy at the Old Creamery 634-5560 to sign up for a conversation.
Hilltown Families said,
January 3, 2011 at 1:31 pm
Saturday, January 8th in Greefield, MA (FREE)
GREEN FIELDS MARKET IS HOSTING A FREE WORM COMPOSTING WORKSHOP
JANUARY 8TH – 2 – 4 PM.
LOCATION: GREEN FIELDS MARKET, 144 MAIN STREET, GREENFIELD, MA
* Why compost with worms anyway?
* Types of worms and why it’s important to know the difference
* Basic worm anatomy and reproduction
* Worm bin ecology
* Care and feeding
* Separating castings
* Uses for the castings
WORM BINS WILL BE AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT THE WORKSHOP BY PREORDER.
FOR ADDITIONAL INFO, TO PREORDER, OR TO RSVP, PLEASE CONTACT:
Green Fields Market 413-773-9567 or email@greenfieldsmarket.coop
Ben Goldberg 413-586-3699 or bins@wehaveworms.com
Directions from I-91 or Rt 2
Take I-91 or Rte. 2 (they run together for a while) to the Exit 26
rotary. Head into town on 2A east (Main St.) Go up the hill to the
top, then look for us a couple of blocks ahead on the left. Look for
the long green awning. Free parking in back. Turn onto Wells
Street on the left before reaching the store.
http://www.greenfieldsmarket.com/ for map.
Hilltown Families said,
October 28, 2010 at 12:16 pm
CLIMATE DISRUPTION: A DISCUSSION LED BY DAVID HAM
On Wednesday, November 17th, Meekins Library will host a discussion of climate change and disruption. The discussion will be held in the Hawks~Hayden Community Room.
According to the discussion leader David ham, “Our climate is changing in ways that can be disastrous for our civilization. Governments’ actions, especially ours, are not seriously addressing our use of fossil fuels that is leading to the disasters. Achieving necessary actions requires understanding in many areas related to the climate disruptions: including science, technologies, economics, politics, governance, philosophy, and religion.”
David Ham encourages anyone interested in discussing questions or concerns about these topics to come and contribute to the discussion. Many recent sources are available to inform us about these issues.
For some of Ham’s suggested sources of mostly accurate information please go to the Williamsburg Library web page: http://www.meekins-library.org and click on the icon of the world and Climate Disruption Reading List
For more information please contact Lisa Wenner at the library at 268-7472 or go to the webpage: http://www.meekins-library.org
Sources of mostly accurate information suggested by David Ham
Books:
Archer, David; “The Long Thaw” (Princeton, 2009)
thorough discussion of the carbon cycle and effects of oceans, mostly science
Cullen, Heidi; “The Weather of the Future” (Harper, 2010)
easy reading, what to expect
Hansen, James; “Storms Of My Grandchildren” (Bloomsbury, 2009)
the best overall explanation of the science by the expert who tells it like it is
Kolbert, Elizabeth; “Field Notes from a Catastrophe” (Bloomsbury, 2006)
on the scene reportage by a journalist who writes very well and accurately
McKibben, Bill; “eaarth” (Times Books, 2010)
mostly a rant, by the Earth Day organizer, suggestions for rural New England
Oreskes, Naomi and Conway, Eric M.; “Merchants of Doubt” (Bloomsbury, 2010)
science historian shows how public is misled about scientific issues
Orr, David W.: “Down to the Wire” (Oxford, 2009)
emphasis on politics, philosophy etc., very good but not easy reading
Pooley, Eric; “The Climate War” Hyperion, 2010)
a journalist covers recent U.S. political (lack of) action on climate change
Romm, Joseph J.; “Hell and High Water” (William Morrow, 2007) and
“Straight Up” (Island Press, 2010)
scientist/administrator gives good overview of most issues, popular blogger
Most of these are available through the CW/MARS catalog and the Meekins Library.
Many other media sources, books, and internet sites and blogs are helpful for learning about this complex and important issue.
Hilltown Families said,
October 28, 2010 at 9:37 am
Jane Andresen, Energy Coach Co-op Power writes:
Co-op Power can perform free energy audits on homes that are serviced by WMECO. If you all have friends in any of the following towns, and would like to invite them to contact me for a free audit (which will be much more comprehensive than the ones offered by the utility companies), that would be wonderful.
The towns that use WMECO as their electric provider are:
Agawam Amherst Ashfield Becket Granville Deerfield Bernardston Blandford Longmeadow Easthampton Buckland Cheshire Ludlow Hadley Chesterfield Dalton Southwick Hatfield Chester Hancock Springfield Huntington Colrain Hinsdale West Springfield Leverett Conway Lanesboro Montgomery Cummington Lee Pelham Deerfield Lenox Russell Erving Middlefield Southampton Gill New Ashford Sunderland Greenfield Otis Westhampton Leyden Peru Whately Montague Pittsfield Northfield Richmond Plainfield Sandisfield Shelburne Savoy Worthington Tolland Tyringham Washington Windsor
In addition, there are a few audits available through this same program for households that heat with gas and use Berkshire Gas. (Some of the towns that Berkshire Gas services are: Most towns in the northwest corner, and those in a straight line down to Great Barrington, plus Greenfield, Montague, Deerfield, Whately, Hatfield, Sunderland, Hadley and Amherst.
Jane
–
Jane Andresen, Energy Coach
Co-op Power
324 Wells Street
Greenfield, MA 01302
(413) 695-6430
jane@cooppower.coop
http://www.cooppower.coop
Leslie Chaison said,
October 19, 2010 at 4:47 pm
A Public Forum
Just Roots, a local citizens’ group, will host a Public Forum in the Town of Greenfield on Sunday, November 7th at 2pm at the Greenfield High School. This forum will be a conversation to help define, as a Greenfield area
community, the best use of the Greenfield Town Farm, which includes 31 acres of prime farmland. This conversation will include decision makers, working farmers, community gardeners, social service networks, educators, permaculturists, and you. The forum will be held in the Greenfield High School Cafeteria. The high school is located off Silver Street in Greenfield. Please come and be part of the vision! For more information, contact jaylordjr@gmail.com.
Note: This event itself is not for families, but a community farm in Greenfield will greatly benefit our community for years to come. Come make your voice heard!
Hilltown Families said,
October 15, 2010 at 12:07 pm
November 6th in Northampton, MA
We Are Wild Foods is putting on another seasonal feast featuring wild and local delights from the Pioneer Valley.
The Acorn Awakening will be a celebration of the abundance of autumn in New England. After mingling with appetizers and drinks, guests can expect a delicious, three course dinner featuring wild, local and organic delicacies prepared with care, love and traditional methods – such as: Jerusalem artichokes, acorn bread, raccoon, persimmons, venison, and other roots, fruits and shoots available this season. Meet some of our plant relatives in person, learn about their lives and how to harvest and prepare them, and join a thoughtful discussion concerning food, humans, and what it means to be wild. Home-brews, harp music, and herbal teas, coffees and smoking blends will round out the evening.
In this silly reality that we call “2010″, our food comes from across the country if not the world. It lives indoors, under plastic, and in rows. It’s poisoned, irradiated, sliced, boxed, chilled and schlepped, stocked, shelved, purchased, schlepped, chilled, nuked then scarfed down in front of the boob tube. It is nutritionally dead, depleted, processed, abused, stale… a shadow of its wild origins. But, as in any year, animals are what they eat. By engaging our wild neighbors and relatives we penetrate the wallpaper that otherwise prevents us from experiencing life on this planet as an animal, a macrobe, a part of a larger whole. Come join us in creating a new culture.
WHEN & WHERE:
November 6th, 2010 7pm-10ish
Location TBA (in the Northampton area)
There is a suggested donation of 15-30$ for the event. If you would like to reserve a place at the table, please RSVP to this email address. Be sure to include the number of seats reserved, and any food allergies or restrictions. Note that tree nuts, roadside beasts and dairy may be in some dishes, while cane sugar, wheat, preservatives and pesticides won’t!
This is a first come, first serve event, and space requires we limit seating to 20 spaces.
We Are Wild Food is:
Carly Leusner, Felix Lufkin, Devin Roark, Mike Nord, Eli Stark, Claudia Coleman, Dean Colpack
We are a collective of wild folks, aiming to create awareness about food that hangs outside our windows, creeps into our lawns, and runs through our streets; to help us all become more sustainable inhabitants of this floating sphere…
Hilltown Families said,
October 14, 2010 at 11:03 am
Saturday, November 6th | 9AM -12:30PM
Bryant Homestead, Cummington, MA | Trustees Members $5, Non-members $10
The charm of old buildings should come from their history and unique designs, not from their draftiness. But what can a homeowner, town or organization do when a complete renovation isn’t possible? Join The Trustees of Reservations on Saturday, November 6th from 9AM to 12:30PM, for a day of talks, tours and demonstrations geared toward making your everyday spaces more efficient and cozy. The backdrop will be the historic William Cullen Bryant Homestead, where visitors can see many of the available options in use helping to protect this local treasure. Please R.S.V.P. to 413.268.8219 or mwamsley@ttor.org.
Hilltown Families said,
October 8, 2010 at 11:53 am
Saturday, October 30th from 2:00 to 4:30 pm
Cummington Community House kitchen, 33 Main Street, Cummington.
Preserve vegetables the old-fashioned no-vinegar, no-heat way with
friendly bacteria cultures $20. Pre-registration by 10/27 is required (Pre-payment is encouraged, but not required. The class will run if ten people pre-pay by 10/22.
Please email me at music@sarahstockwell.com to register or make payment
arrangements. You may use PayPal to pre-pay at http://www.sarahstockwell.com
Camilla Hansen said,
October 4, 2010 at 11:06 am
Clean Energy Connections – Business Growth for a Carbon-Neutral Future is the region’s premier forum for green career- and business-development information and networking. The event convenes business owners, entrepreneurs, financiers, educators, career seekers, community leaders, and public agencies.
Join the hundreds of other individuals, like you, who want to see the promise of the green economy turn into reality. Register NOW!
On Wednesday, October 20, you will:
ACCESS resources to build your green business.
MEET entrepreneurs and clean energy experts contributing to the green economy.
LEARN about clean energy trends to grow your green business.
Check out the program online for a full listing of who is speaking, who is exhibiting at the Opportunity Fair, and REGISTER TODAY! Registration fees increase after Oct 15 so don’t wait.
For more information visit http://www.umass.edu/green/conference and CLEAN ENERGY CONNECTIONS on the web.
Hilltown Families said,
October 3, 2010 at 6:55 am
Eat the Sky: The Climate Crisis and the Future of Food with Anna Lappe’
Wednesday, October 6 at 7:30pm
Location: Gamble Auditorium at Mount Holyoke College
http://www.mtholyoke.edu/wcl/25237.shtml
Anna Lappe will be speaking at Mt. Holyoke on Wednesday:
Wednesday October 6
ANNA LAPPÉ: DIET FOR A HOT PLANET
7:30pm, Gamble Auditorium, Mount Holyoke College, Rt 116, S Hadley. Anna Lappé will read from and sign Diet for a Hot Planet: The Climate Crisis at the End of Your Fork and What You Can Do About It. Beyond what we already know about “food miles” and eating locally, the global food system is a major contributor to climate change, producing as much as one-third of greenhouse gas emissions. How we farm, what we eat, and how our food gets to the table all have an impact. Our government and the food industry are willfully ignoring the issue rather than addressing it. In Anna Lappé’s controversial new book, she predicts that unless we radically shift the trends of what food we’re eating and how we’re producing it, food system-related greenhouse gas emissions will continue to go up. She exposes the interests that will resist the change and the spin food companies will generate to avoid system-wide reform. Lappé helps readers understand that food can be a powerful starting point for solutions to global environmental problems.
Info: James Harold, Weissman Center for Leadership and the Liberal Arts, (413) 538-3071, wcl@mtholyoke.edu.
Additional information on this and other WCL food events can be found at http://www.mtholyoke.edu/go/wcl_food. For food-related events at Mount Holyoke College, please visit http://www.mtholyoke.edu/go/food.
Hilltown Families said,
September 14, 2010 at 1:26 pm
Friday, October 1st in Pittsfield, MA (>$)
Solar energy seminar scheduled
A solar energy for your home or business seminar will be offered by the Center for Ecological Technology (CET) on Friday, October 1, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Berkshire Museum, 39 South Street, Pittsfield. Chris Vreeland, a registered professional engineer, is the featured speaker. Light refreshments will be served. Registration is required and a donation of $10 per person is suggested. Please register online at http://www.cetonline.org/Events/events.php. Voluntary donations can be made online or at the door.
With volatile fuel prices and concern about the effects of increased consumption of fossil fuels on our health and environment, many businesses and homeowners are trying to conserve and seek local, clean sources of energy. Interest in solar hot water and solar electric (photovoltaic) systems for homes, farms, schools and businesses in western Massachusetts continues to grow. Grants and tax incentives are available to help offset the cost of investing in energy efficiency, solar energy and other renewable technologies.
At the seminar, Vreeland will help attendees determine if a solar installation would be a good fit for their situation by introducing the basics of solar hot water and solar photovoltaic systems, system components, determining sizing and siting of systems and reducing existing power loads through energy efficient improvements. Massachusetts is in transition from a rebate program into a new program that uses Solar Renewable Energy Credits as an incentive for solar photovoltaics projects. Vreeland will provide detailed information on financial incentives currently available for energy efficiency improvements and renewable energy from Massachusetts and the federal government.
Solar energy and more are highlighted in the annual Green Buildings Open House Tour the following day, Saturday, October 2. Homes and businesses old and new throughout the region will showcase features such as solar PV and hot water systems, passive solar design, geothermal systems, reclaimed building materials, straw-bale construction, small-scale hydro power and a Zero Net Energy home. Hours vary and the properties are located throughout the area. Check locations near you at http://www.nesea.org/greenbuildings.
In addition to the seminar and tour, to learn more aboutGreen Building in western Massachusetts, contact Megan at meganm@cetonline.org to receive CET’s EcoBuilder Newsletter. To stay in the loop on these and other CET events, sign up for EcoBytes or EcoUpdates by visiting http://www.cetonline.org or contact Susan at susans@cetonline.org.
For more information or to register for this seminar, contact CET at 413-445-4556 ext. 10, or cynthiag@cetonline.org.
CET is a non-profit energy and resource conservation organization that has served western Massachusetts since 1976. CET is supported in part by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. CET is an equal opportunity service provider. This seminar is made possible through grant funding from Western Massachusetts Electric Company (WMECO), the Sohn Foundation and the Energy Federation Inc.
Hilltown Families said,
September 9, 2010 at 8:21 am
COMMUNITY CANNING FOR THE BERKSHIRE FOOD PROJECT
AT CARETAKER FARM THIS FRIDAY
On Friday, September 10 starting at 9 am, Caretaker Farm will host a community canning project to preserve tomatoes for the Berkshire Food Project.
Volunteers will be directed through this large-scale production by a farm member’s parents Emilio and Anna Cardinali, who have more than 100 years of canning experience combined.
Some of the completed tomato sauce will be delivered fresh to the Berkshire Food Project for meals over the next week. Additional tomatoes will be preserved for use at a later time. A great opportunity to learn how to can tomatoes, Caretaker Farm is seeking volunteers (of all ages) to help with various elements of the sauce-making project. No experience necessary.
This community production for the Berkshire Food Project is the second such venture for Caretaker Farm. The last community canning event took place in 2007, an abundant year for the tomato harvest. For details and photos of the 2007 event, visit farm member Ali Benjamin’s food blog at http://cleanerplateclub.wordpress.com/2007/09/25/tomatoes-hunger-and-community/.
On behalf of the Berkshire Food Project, Caretaker Farm will be accepting donations of quart-size canning jars and lids/rims. Jars will need to be delivered by 10 am Friday morning. To volunteer for the largest sauce-making production of the year, contact don@caretakerfarm.org or call (413) 458-9691.
Located in South Williamstown, Caretaker Farm has been operating as an organic vegetable farm for more than 40 years. The 35-acre family farm has 16-24 acres in pasture and seven acres in planned stages of vegetable production. Caretaker Farm is a Community Supported Agriculture Farm (CSA) with more than 250 CSA members who purchase a share in the annual harvest of mostly vegetables, with some small fruits and flowers. For more information, visit http://www.caretakerfarm.org.
Hilltown Families said,
September 7, 2010 at 10:43 am
Wednesday, September 29th in Northampton, MA (FREE)
Environmental Toxins and Your Health at the Forbes Library
6:30 p.m. in the Community Room
Please join local expert Dr. Jeffrey Soley for this important presentation regarding the presence of toxins in our environment and food supply. Atendees will learn the most common sources of toxicity, how current research has linked their presence to diabetes, autism, Alzheimers, and cardiovascular disease among others, and what practical strategies can be taken to protect your health.
Please call to reserve (413)977-6680. This workshop is free and open to all.
Hilltown Families said,
September 5, 2010 at 7:10 pm
Saturday, September 18th in Athol, MA
Fourth Annual Fungus Fair from 10:00am-5:00pm
Interested in mushrooms? The Millers River Environmental Center , 100 Main St. Athol , Massachusetts is putting the fun into fungus again with its Fourth Annual Fungus Fair.
Respected mycologists from throughout the United States will be on hand to share their knowledge. There will be morning and afternoon expeditions into the local woods to identify and collect mushrooms. Authorities will give talks throughout the day on topics that include a general overview of fungi, beginner’s mushroom identification, the ever changing state of mushroom taxonomy, and easily identified edibles. At lunch time, enjoy a wild mushroom cook-up. The inclusive cost for the day is $5; admission is free to members of Monadnock Mushroomers.
For more info email Noah Siegel at nsiegel1@yahoo.com
The schedule is as follows:
10:00 am Welcome
10:15 Morning Forays leave
10:30 Fantastic Fungi I Have Loved and Known with Rick Van de Poll
11:30 Beginners’ Mushroom Identification with Erin Page Blanchard
12:30 Get a taste of some wild fungi at the Mushroom Cook-up
1:00 pm Afternoon Forays leave
1:30 It’s Called What Now? Name changes in the DNA age with Noah Siegel
2:30 Common Edible & Poisonous Mushrooms: East vs. West with Debbie Viess
4:00 Table walk through, discussing the day’s finds with Noah Siegel.
Speakers this year are:
Dr. Rick Van de Poll is the principal of Ecosystem Management Consultants (EMC) of Sandwich , New Hampshire , which has conducted natural resource inventories for the public and private sector of New England since 1985. Dr. Van de Poll has completed biological inventories on over 150,000 acres of land, and has recorded over 1200 mushrooms in New Hampshire , including a number of undescribed species. With a Masters in Mycology and Environmental Communications, he has taught Mycology at Antioch University New England for many years, and currently teaches Mycology as an adjunct faculty at Plymouth State University . He co-founded the Monadnock Mushroom Club in 1988, and founded the local Sandwich Area Mushroom (SAM) Club in 2001.
Erin Page Blanchard is studying the taxonomy and identification of fungi. She is an active member of the Mycological Society of San Francisco (MSSF) and Bay Area Mycological Society (BAMS), and has been involved with other California Mycology Clubs in organizing and setting up events. Erin has identified fungi for the annual MSSF Fungus Fair, SDMS Fungus Fair, FFSC fungus Fair, Point Reyes Fungus Fair, Marin Mushroom Mania, Point Reyes MycoBlitz, and the UCB Fungal Survey of Yosemite. On the internet she moderates a message board for Mushroom Hunting and Identification. She consults wild crafted food businesses on mushroom identification, and has helped to organize and lead mushroom forays in the California Bay Area. She has worked with Dr. Else C. Vellinga doing DNA sequencing, and co-authored a poster presentation for the Mycological Society of America conference in 2009. Erin is currently part of a research effort directed by the UC Berkeley Mycology Department to identify and document species of fungi in Yosemite National Park .
Noah Siegel is a nationally known award-winning photographer and mushroom identifier. He is drawn to fungi by its wide variety and unsung nature. He is co-president and a walk leader for the Monadnock Mushroomers Unlimited in Keene , New Hampshire , and a trustee for the North East Mycological Federation. While mostly based in the northeastern U.S. , he has also sought mushrooms out throughout the United States and Canada as well as New Zealand and Australia .
Debbie Viess is a California naturalist, writer, artist and obsessive mushroom hunter who enjoys sharing her love of mushrooms. She writes extensively about mushrooms, both online and in print, and gives humor-laced, beautifully illustrated, mushroom-flavored talks across the country. She is also the CoFounder of the Bay Area Mycological Society, http://www.bayareamushrooms.org, an art and science-centric mushroom club based in the San Francisco Bay Area.
Hilltown Families said,
September 4, 2010 at 3:16 pm
Saturday, September 18th in Northampton, MA
Are you afraid of your pressure canner? Are you unsure about what needs water bathing and what needs to be pressure canned? Would you like to learn more about using a root cellar or a dehydrator? NOFA’s 2nd annual Food Preservation Day is scheduled from 9:00 to 3:00 on September 18th at St. John’s Church in Northampton. Call Kathy Harrison for registration and information.
Hilltown Families said,
September 3, 2010 at 5:07 am
Thursday, September 9th
11-12pm in Pittsfield: Shaker Cooking with Michael Roller at Hancock Shaker Village. 443-0188 http://www.hancockshakervillage.org ($)
Saturday, September 11th
2pm – RESKILLING: Learn to can salsa at Wild Oats Market. 458-8060 Williamstown, MA (>$)
Monday, September 13th
4pm in Great Barrington: Lacto Fermentation of seasonal vegetables at Berkshire Co-op Market. 528-9697
Thursday, September 16th
7 – 10pm in Stockbridge: Home to make ketchup. Call 298-0173 ($)
Saturday, September 18th
10am – 12:30pm – RESKILLING: Amy Cotler, author of The Locavore, will review how to freeze herbs for the winter. Call 232-7174. West Stockbridge, MA
Tuesday, September 21st
9-11:30am in Williamstown: Learn about Pickling at Sheep Hill. 458-0123 ($)
Saturday, September 25th
10am – RESKILLING: Learn about Pickling at Ward’s Nursery and Garden Center. 528-0166 Great Barrington, MA
Saturday, September 25th
10am – RESKILLING FOR KIDS: A Pickling workshop for kids at the Berkshire Co-op. 528-9697 Great Barrington, MA (FREE)
Hilltown Families said,
September 2, 2010 at 12:46 pm
A Gardening Harvesting Workshop
The Next Meeting of the
West County Resilience Conversation
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
The West County Resilience Conversation will present, ” A Garden Harvesting Workshop” from 7:00 – 9:00 PM, on Tuesday, September 7, at the Shelburne Senior Center, 7 Main Street, Shelburne Falls.
Emma Stamas will lead a discussion about bringing in the fall harvest, extending your garden season, storing your produce, and planning for next garden season. Your questions and ideas are welcome as this will be a discussion for gardeners with all levels of experience. For more information call Emma 413-624-3240.
Free.
*****************************************************************************************************************
More Planned West County Resilience Conversation Events:
Tuesday, September 28, 2010 – A showing of the movie, “In Transition” about the Transition Town movement which started in Ireland and England and is now spreading around the world. There will be a discussion after the movie. Call Will Flanders at (413) 625-2525 for more information.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010 – An “Introduction to Transition Towns” with Tina Clarke, a Transition Town trainer, and Will Flanders. The goal of this evening will be to get at least one Transition Town study group going in Shelburne Falls.
Tuesday, November 2, 1010 – A workshop on “Using Free and Subsidized Services to Winterize Your Home”. Emma Stamas will present.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010 – A workshop on “How to Use Wood Stoves and Pellet Stoves to Produce the Most Heat and Least Pollution.” Madeline Leibling will present.
Hilltown Families said,
August 30, 2010 at 5:31 pm
CONSERVATION SEMINAR: What do you do when “Land For Sale” signs start appearing near your favorite view or hike? Who do you call when a friend asks for advice about saving their family’s farmland for the next generation? If you care about the future of your town’s rural, undeveloped lands, the Trustees of Reservation’s free Kick Starting Conservation seminar will give you the information that you need to help at 6pm on Tuesday, September 14th at the Worthington Historical Society. You’ll know who to call and what to do after learning basic land conservation techniques and meeting the staff of local conservation organizations. New maps of important habitat and other resources in your community will also be available. The event is part of their Neighbor Conservation Network, an easy, no commitment way for families to get involved in the protecting the rural character and quality of life in their town. Light dinner served. Please call 413.268.8219 to register and get information. Worthington, MA (FREE)
Hilltown Families said,
August 30, 2010 at 10:09 am
The Pioneer Valley Heritage Grain CSA
What’s in a share? Heritage wheat, heirloom dry beans, spelt, rye, heirloom dent corn, and sometimes a surprise from our trials. The crops are grown in Shutesbury, Hadley, and Gill, MA.
http://www.localgrain.org/
Hilltown Families said,
August 27, 2010 at 8:20 am
MASSACHUSETTS FOOD PRESERVATION WORKSHOP DAYS
September 11 and 18, 2010 Morning Workshops and All-Day Workshops Locations across the state. This fall as the local harvest peaks and thoughts shift toward winter eating, NOFA/Mass presents our second annual statewide Fall Food Preservation Days.
Topics include: Lacto Fermentation, Pickling, Water bath Canning, Pressure Canning, Freezing, Drying, Culturing, Root Cellaring. All-day workshops include a potluck lunch.
Workshops in Western MA on September 11th include:
Workshops in Western MA on September 18th include:
The workshops are $35 for the two morning workshops and $50 for the morning and afternoon workshops. There is a $5 discount for NOFA members. There is a $5 discount for registering 14 or more days before the workshop you’re registering for. There is a $5 discount for registering for more than one workshop. The discounts for the morning workshops are for $3. Morning and Afternoon workshops include a potluck lunch. The workshop in Shirley includes a catered lunch and the all-inclusive registration fee for it is $60. Registration Info and more details at: http://www.nofamass.org/programs/extensionevents/preservation.php.
Hilltown Families said,
August 24, 2010 at 12:25 pm
Food Preservation 101 at the Hancock Shaker Village
Saturday, October 30th in Pittsfield, MA
2:00 – 3:00pm
Presenter: Julie Gale, Founder & Cooking Instructor, At The Kitchen Table Cooking, (and Gianni Ortiz, Executive Director, Regional Farm & Food Project)
Wondering how to best preserve the foods from the bountiful fall harvest through the coming months? This session will provide basic information and practical advice, tips and techniques for proper food storage & preservation. Highlighting Lacto Fermentation, the natural fermentation of foods as a preservation technique (sauerkraut is a good example), this program will also touching upon canning, pickling, drying and freezing. Instructor Julie Gale has co-authored the children’s cookbook I Want to Cook, and is the founder of At The Kitchen Table Cooking School, Hillsdale, NY.
Program included with regular HSV admission, FREE for Hancock Shaker Village Members!
Location: 1843 West Housatonic St., Pittsfield MA, 01201, MA 01237, (413) 443-0188 | (800) 817-1137
http://www.hancockshakervillage.org
Hilltown Families said,
August 24, 2010 at 6:49 am
Fall Foods Forage at the Hancock Shaker Village
Saturday, October 23rd in Pittsfield, MA
2:00 – 4:00pm
Presenter: David St. James , Naturalist
The Berkshire harvest season is winding down by October, but there are still plenty of wild edible plants growing in the fields and forests. Not familiar with foraging on your own, and unsure of what is edible and what is not? Spend this adventurous afternoon on a fall foods forage with a local naturalist and wildlife expert, and see what edible treats you can find – wild rose hips high in Vitamin C, sumac fruit clusters that can be made into a “lemonade,” the surprisingly tasty and nutritious burdock root, and much more. This program will take place off-the-beaten-path, so be prepared to hike through the fields and forests with clothing appropriate for outdoors, including sturdy footwear.
Program included with regular HSV admission, FREE for Hancock Shaker Village Members!
Location: 1843 West Housatonic St., Pittsfield MA, 01201, MA 01237, (413) 443-0188 | (800) 817-1137
http://www.hancockshakervillage.org
Hilltown Families said,
August 24, 2010 at 6:36 am
Backyard Beekeeping at the Hancock Shaker Village
September 18th & September 19th in Pittsfield, MA
Saturday and Sunday, 1pm and 3pm sessions
“To Bee or Not to Bee” – An Introduction to Backyard Beekeeping
Presenter: Joe Moncecchi, of Guiseppe’s Wild Mountain Honey, and Northern Berkshire Beekeeping Association
Are you interested in your own backyard beehive? Do you want to enjoy fresh, natural honey from your own hive? Ever wonder how beeswax candles are made? Or are you simply fascinated by the viewable demonstration hive in the HSV Discovery Room? See what the “buzz” is all about. Come for one of four introductory level sessions and learn all about bees and beekeeping, including what you would need to know before setting up your own apiary. Includes a discussion of the various kinds of equipment needed to set up and care for your hives. Learn how the bee serves as an important pollinator around the world and in your own neighborhood. Take part in hands-on honey extracting and other bee related activities. This program is a great opportunity for all ages.
Program included with regular HSV admission, FREE for Hancock Shaker Village Members!
Location: 1843 West Housatonic St., Pittsfield MA, 01201, MA 01237, (413) 443-0188 | (800) 817-1137
http://www.hancockshakervillage.org
Hilltown Families said,
August 5, 2010 at 5:36 pm
NOFA/Mass Opposes State’s Aerial Spraying of Toxic Pesticide
The state of Massachusetts has announced plans, starting August 4, to spray pesticide from the air over a significant area of the state in an effort to kill mosquitoes carrying the virus responsible for Eastern equine encephalitis (EEE). EEE is a disease that infects birds living in freshwater swamps and can be carried by mosquito bite to horses and humans. It can be fatal, especially to the young. As of early August 2010, there have been 15 mammal-biting mosquitoes detected yielding positive results for the virus, although only one horse has been found with it, and no humans.
Initial state plans call for nighttime spraying of pesticide over nearly 30 towns, centered on Middleborough, MA, covering an area of almost 300,000 acres. The state says it has mapped no-spray zones around public water supplies, coastal areas, organic farms, fish hatcheries and habitats of endangered species. The pesticide to be sprayed will be Anvil, a synthetic pyrethroid. The normal concentration is 10% of the active ingredient sumithrin, 10% piperonyl butoxide, and 80% inert ingredients.
Although pyrethroids are listed among the least toxic insecticides, they are still potent nerve poisons. Inhaling them can cause coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain and difficulty breathing. Skin contact can cause a rash, itching, or blisters. Piperonyl butoxide, although not yet fully researched, can cause skin and eye irritations.
Rats fed high doses of pyrethroids showed liver damage, and there is evidence it can harm the thyroid. Sumithrin has been shown to disrupt the endocrine system by mimicking the effects of estrogen. In men this can lower the sperm count, in women it can cause the growth of abnormal breast cells. It has been classified by the Environmental Protection Agency as a possible human carcinogen.
Sumithrin is also very poisonous to bees and fish. Its half-life in soil is from one day to sixteen weeks, depending on the type of soil,
Human Impact
NOFA/Mass doubts that the potential ill effects of this poison and suspected carcinogen on hundreds of thousands of people in the path of the spray can be ajustified by the seriousness of the health risk so far posed by EEE. The state has called upon people to close up their houses and shut down their air-conditioners and fans to avoid exposure. They advise rinsing any homegrown fruits and vegetables, keeping pets indoors, and washing any exposed clothes or skin. Do we really need to impose these conditions on our citizens to protect them from being poisoned by their own government?
Environmental Impact
It is unacceptable that the state has chosen a compound highly toxic to bees, which can last almost 4 months, to introduce in our environment, when Massachusetts is already suffering a serious decline in bee population from Colony Collapse Disorder caused, many feel, by exposure to another toxic pesticide, Imadacloprid.
Organic Farm Impact
Although the state has taken the precaution of surveying certified organic farms and locating them by GPS coordinates on the aerial spraying maps, we are not confident that such farms can be adequately protected by such exclusion zones. The farms’ small size, the strength of prevailing winds, the speed of the planes, and the imprecision inherent in this type of nighttime flyover suggest that such protection is not a practical measure.
We call upon the state to reconsider this gamble with our public health, and urge anyone concerned about this spraying to protest it by calling Governor Deval Patrick at 617-725-4005.
NOFA/Mass (Northeast Organic Farming Association, Massachusetts Chapter) is a community of farmers, gardeners, landscapers and consumers working to educate members and the general public about the benefits of local organic systems based on complete cycles, natural materials, and minimal waste for the health of individual beings, communities and the living planet. The NOFA/Mass office is located at 411 Sheldon Road in Barre, MA 01005; telephone is (978) 355-2853. Visit http://www.nofamass.org for much more information.
Mindy Harris
Public Relations Coordinator
Northeast Organic Farming Association (NOFA/Mass)
Hilltown Families said,
August 2, 2010 at 10:42 am
Commonwealth Passes Bill To Create a Stronger Food System
The Massachusetts Legislature just finalized a bill to establish a state Food Policy Council. Its goal will be to create a healthier food system for all, following successful models used in several other states. “We have some of the best farmers and farm land in the world and we need to ensure that farmers thrive and all consumers have access to healthy, locally grown food that is affordable,” said Philip Korman, Executive Director of CISA. “This legislation is a vital first step in that direction.”
The bill establishes a 17-member statewide food policy council to advance four food system goals: to increase production, sales and consumption of Massachusetts-grown foods; to bring healthy local foods to Massachusetts residents and increase access in communities with disproportionate burdens of obesity and chronic diseases; to protect the land and water resources needed for sustained local food production; and to train, retain and recruit farmers and provide for the continued economic viability of local food production, processing and distribution.
“This legislation makes it more possible to build a healthier, more sustainable food system for the Commonwealth”, said Rep. Stephen Kulik. “By building ties between agencies and stakeholders, the Council will strengthen relationships between Massachusetts farmers and communities to address inadequate access to healthy, affordable food.”
The Massachusetts Food Policy Council will consist of members from the legislature, state agencies representing agriculture, public health, housing, transitional assistance, environmental protection and private organizations.
Food Policy Councils exist in 15 other states including Connecticut, New York, Florida and California and cities throughout the Commonwealth. Successes include increased purchasing of locally grown food by state agencies and institutions, coordinated efforts to address the lack of livestock slaughtering and processing infrastructure, and increased public transportation and public funds to create supermarkets for greater food access.
The legislation was supported by a wide variety of organizations across the food system, including the Massachusetts Public Health Association, American Farmland Trust, Federation of Massachusetts Farmers Markets, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Farm Bureau Federation, Nuestras Raices (Holyoke), Project Bread – The Walk for Hunger, South End/Lower Roxbury Open Space Land Trust, and the Worcester County Food Bank.
Founded in 1993, CISA is a nationally recognized community organization comprised of farmers, institutions and residents working together to strengthen local agriculture by building connections between farmers and the community. Located in South Deerfield, CISA is the creator of numerous innovative programs, including Senior FarmShare, Agriculture Infrastructure programming, and the Be a Local Hero, Buy Locally Grown® public awareness campaign. CISA is an equal opportunity employer provider and employer. To become a member of CISA and learn more about CISA’s work visit http://www.buylocalfood.org or call (413) 665-7100.
Hilltown Families said,
May 20, 2010 at 4:13 pm
Today, in anticipation of the 2010 summer boating season, the Massachusetts Senate endorsed legislation hoping to shield the Commonwealth’s lakes and ponds from further contamination by zebra mussels and other aquatic nuisance species, under the leadership of state Senator Benjamin B. Downing (D- Pittsfield).
Downing sponsored An Act Protecting Lakes and Ponds last summer after zebra mussels were discovered – for the first time ever in Massachusetts – in Berkshire County’s Laurel Lake. The legislation passed by the Senate reflects the recommendations of the state’s Zebra Mussel Task Force, established by the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs to author a zebra mussel action plan after the aquatic nuisance was identified in Lee.
“Boating, fishing and swimming are favored summer recreational activities in Berkshire County,” said Downing. “Last summer’s discovery of zebra mussels in Laurel Lake caused widespread panic among local lake users, because a plan of action to deal with their detection was not readily available. I am hopeful final passage of this legislation will help the state environmental agencies implement the state’s zebra mussel action plan. It should also remind all lake users of our collective responsibility to ensure human actions do not threaten the environmental health of our cherished lakes, ponds and other natural resources.
Aquatic nuisance species, like zebra mussels, pose a significant threat to lakes, ponds, rivers and reservoirs statewide, creating significant adverse impacts on recreation, ecology, fisheries, aesthetics and property values. The task force determined that under existing law state environmental agencies do not possess the necessary enforcement authority to manage the immediate and long-term effect of zebra mussels, or the means to manage aquatic nuisances that are likely to infest the Massachusetts’ natural resources in the future.
Other states have developed such enforcement authority and capacity to address aquatic nuisance species. Downing’s bill seeks to protect uncontaminated lakes and ponds with a long-term approach to manage aquatic nuisances that may affect Massachusetts’ inland bodies of water.
The legislation tasks the Department of Conservation and Recreation with establishing an aquatic nuisance control program to study and promote improved methods of suppressing, controlling or reducing the risk of the spread of aquatic nuisances. This program will collaborate with other state and federal agencies engaged in the study or control of aquatic nuisances.
The bill makes clear that lake and pond users cannot knowingly or willfully launch a vessel that has been in contaminated waters without first decontaminating it in accordance with state environmental regulations. Zebra mussels were likely introduced to Laurel Lake by a boat previously launched into the contaminated waters of neighboring states.
The bill also strengthens enforcement measures by allowing the Department of Conservation and Recreation to impose civil penalties for violations of any rules, regulations, orders, or quarantines issued by the Commissioner. The Massachusetts Environmental Police are authorized to proceed against the certificate of number of a vessel involved in a violation. Further, progressive fines for violating aquatic nuisance rules, regulations, orders, or quarantines are established.
The legislation now goes to the House of Representatives for consideration. Information on the Zebra Mussel Task Force and its recommendations is available online at http://www.mass.gov/envir.
Juicy Shoes said,
April 27, 2010 at 6:11 am
A little off the subject maybe, but a plea for people to think about the ethics of buying things like designer clothes. Do try and think about, for example, the materials the product is manufactured from, the human rights of the factories where they’re manufactured and the green credentials of retailers. And try to recycle rather than throwing away. Thanks!!!!
Haarentfernungen said,
April 24, 2010 at 6:28 pm
I have been reading a lot on here the topic Eco-Friendly Family Bulletin Board « Hilltown Families inspired me, i have picked up some really great ideas. Thanks and i hope to see more soon.
Hilltown Families said,
April 5, 2010 at 4:53 pm
Tuesday, April 20th in Lenox, MA
Residential Energy Code Training offered
On April 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources is offering an energy code training session at the Town Hall at 6 Walker Street in Lenox for contractors, architects, building inspectors, real estate brokers, appraisers, home inspectors, and others in the building professions. The presenter will be Chuck Miller, a building inspector in Westhampton, and building science trainer for the Center for Ecological Technology (CET). Advance registration is required.
Attendees will learn about the changes in the energy efficiency requirements of the MA Building Code, 780 CMR, 7th Edition. These new requirements are mandatory beginning July 1. A significant change for residential builders is that for the first time the statewide code will require performance testing of new homes to ensure that heating ducts and the building shell have minimal leakage.
In addition to the code changes, attendees in the session will learn the fundamentals of building science and best practices in homes that would lead to greater efficiency, comfort, and indoor air quality and help the occupants save money on energy. Miller will also review the requirements for the Stretch Code, an optional, more efficient code appendix for adoption by any Massachusetts community that was developed through the Massachusetts Green Communities Act of 2008. New homes subject to the Stretch Code will require performance testing like the new state wide code plus a Home Energy Rating (HERS) Index documenting that the building’s energy efficiency is at least 15-20% more efficient than the base code.
After a public hearing and a vote by the City Council, Pittsfield adopted the Stretch Code, and CET and the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission are providing technical support to a number of other Berkshire communities that are working on adopting the Stretch Code through public hearings and a vote at their upcoming Town Meetings.
This is the last expected residential code training in the Berkshires. An additional residential session in western Massachusetts will be offered on April 30, from 8:30 to 1 p.m. at the Kittredge Business Center, Holyoke Community College, 303 Homestead Avenue, Holyoke.
Advance registration is required for either session, and there is limited space in all trainings. Continuing Education Units will be available for AIA, BBRS, NAHB, ASHI and BPI.
For registration information, visit CET’s Events page at http://www.cetonline.org, or contact 800-369-3333 ext. 301 / training@cetonline.org.
Hilltown Families said,
April 5, 2010 at 12:06 pm
Jane and Kristen of BEAT write:
Please help! Take action to Update the Bottle Bill
Contact your State Representative and State Senator and ask them to support the Updated Bottle Bill, H3515/S1480. 2nd Berkshire District Representative Dennis Guyer is a sponsor of this bill – please thank him and ask that he help move the bill along.
The Bottle Bill is the state’s most successful recycling and litter prevention program. Since the Bottle Bill’s inception in 1983, over 30 billion containers have been redeemed, contributing to a healthier environment, cleaner and safer communities, and a stronger economy. But to keep up with the times and consumer’s tastes, the bottle bill must be updated. An Updated Bottle Bill would expand our container deposit system to include non-carbonated beverages such as water, iced tea, juice, and sports drinks. It would decrease litter – and increase recycling.
An amazing 80% of beverages that are covered by the bottle bill are redeemed/recycled. But sadly, only 22% of non-deposit containers are recycled – the rest become litter, clog our storm drains, or are thrown in the trash.
Updating our bottle bill will boost recycling, save our communities the cost associated with disposal and litter cleanup, and conserve valuable resources. These plastic bottles are made of 99% petroleum – what a sad waste to send our valuable oil to landfills where they’ll sit forever.
There are only a few months left in this legislative session, and the bottle bill has yet to move out of its first committee. Your call to your legislators will help move it along.
Contact your State Representative and State Senator and ask them to support the Updated Bottle Bill, H3515/S1480. 2nd Berkshire District Representative Dennis Guyer is a sponsor of this bill – please thank him and ask that he help move the bill along.
If you know who your legislators are, click here to contact them. http://www.mass.gov/legis/memmenu.htm
If you’re unsure, click here. http://www.wheredoivotema.com
When you call,
*ask to speak to your legislator, but if they are not available it is great to talk to their staff
* tell them your name and address
Ask your legislators to:
(a.) Commit to supporting the bill (if they haven’t already)
(b.) Contact leadership and ask them to move the bill. Ask house/senate leaders to move the bill to the floor for a vote! If it doesn’t move soon, the bill will die.
We suggest you call them TODAY!
If you can’t call, consider email of fax. Be sure to include your name and address.
Additional information: H3515/S1480 would (a.) expand the bottle bill to include water, sports drinks, flavored teas, juices, and other on the go beverages. (b.) it would reestablish the Clean Environment Fund, taking forfeited deposits and using these funds to improve recycling and other environmental projects (c.) would provide an industry-paid slight increase to redemption centers, who have not had a raise in 18 years. This bill would not increase the deposit, and would not cost the state any money. This w\bill would help reduce litter, increase recycling, and help municipalities reduce collection and cleanup fees. There are no other bottle bill updates currently being considered by the legislature.
Thank you for all you do to protect the environment in the Berkshires and beyond!
Hilltown Families said,
April 4, 2010 at 1:27 pm
Saturday, April 10th in Chesterfield, MA
CALLING ALL GREEN THUMBS! IT’S SPRING….
TIME FOR ORGANIC GARDENING WORKSHOPS
HELD on SATURDAY, APRIL 10 AT CRABAPPLE FARM
CHESTERFIELD, MA – Dreaming about dill? Pining for parsnips? Longing for lettuce? Tempted for tomatoes? Begging for beets? Join the Northeast Organic Farming Association/ Massachusetts Chapter (NOFA/Mass) on Saturday, April 10 from 9am-12pm at Crabapple Farm in Chesterfield , 100 Bryant Street, for an exciting workshop on how to cultivate your own organic garden!
The event is part of the Massachusetts Organic Gardening Workshop Day, which is designed to meet the recent resurgence of energy and action for backyard and community gardening. Similar events will be held in 9 other towns and cities throughout the state.
“We are seeing that lots of people want to start gardens, but many people seem to lack the confidence they need to undertake the growing process. Folks wonder if they can succeed, particularly with vegetables and fruit. Well, these workshops are designed to take the mystery out of organic gardening. Anybody can do it!” said Ben Grosscup, NOFA/Mass Extension Events Coordinator. “At this event, we’re offering the public an opportunity to learn basic gardening skills from experienced organic gardeners.”
The owner and operator of Crabapple Farm, Tevis Robertson-Goldberg, will be teaching the workshop. He grows a diverse array of crops for people who buy shares of vegetables at his farm and who patronize his stand at local farmers markets. “I’ll be demonstrating practical ways of integrating organic, biodynamic, permaculture, and traditional farming practices into whatever scale garden you plan to have,” said Robertson-Goldberg.
“The idea with all of these systems is that we cooperate with nature to create health in the soil and this allows us to grow food,” he said.
Topics that will be covered at the workshop include: designing garden beds, starting seeds, organic soil fertility, mulches and cover crops, weeds, disease and pests, what to plant when, crop spacing, and succession cropping. Got a question? Bring it to your instructor!
Julie Rawson, NOFA/Mass Executive Director, has been teaching organic gardening workshops for years: “Sharing the knowledge people need to grow their own food has been the mission of NOFA since it began more than 30 years ago. Today, with the economic and ecological crises that we’re in, I think a lot of people are once again turning toward backyard gardening as more than a hobby; it is also something essential for our well-being.”
In addition to Chesterfield, workshops are also being held in the following communities: Mattapan, South Natick, Newbury, Dartmouth, Centerville, Barre, Wendell, Winchendon Springs, and Monterey. Workshop Registration is $30 with a $5 discount for NOFA members. For information on how to register, visit http://www.nofamass.org, or contact Ben Grosscup 413-658-5374 .
Hilltown Families said,
April 1, 2010 at 8:07 am
Saturday May 1st in CT
3rd Annual Electronics Round-up
The Housatonic Valley Regional High School Recycling Team is sponsoring its 3rd annual electronics round-up. We’re collecting used electronics in order to reduce the amounts of toxic materials ending up in landfills and incinerators. Accepted items include computers, printers and ink cartridges, cameras, audio and video equipment, compact fluorescent light bulbs, phones, chargers, cables, batteries, and electronic games. (No appliances or hazardous materials, please!). Our partnership with East Coast Asset Recovery assures secure handling of computer hard drives.
A nominal donation for this service supports the charitable works of the HVRHS Peace Club, including water and environmental projects in Africa and Haiti. ALL proceeds go to charity.
The event is Saturday May 1, 2010, 9am-2pm, at the north end of the HVRHS campus, 246 Warren Turnpike, Falls Village, CT.
Businesses, schools and individuals are welcome to participate; no reservations are necessary. Questions may be directed to the Recycling Team advisor, Douglas Weisman (dweisman@hvrhs.org).
The Recycling Team would be grateful if you could forward this message to as many people as possible. We’re hoping to exceed last year’s haul of 25,000 pounds of material.
Hilltown Families said,
March 29, 2010 at 11:37 am
A free screening of Food, Inc will be held at the Forbes Library in Northampton on April 14th, 7pm in the Community Room.
Hilltown Families said,
March 18, 2010 at 10:14 pm
2010 Montview Neighborhood Farm Workshops
Montview Neighborhood Farm is an urban-organic farm, forest garden and education site located on city-owned conservation land in Northampton, MA. We use hand tools and human-power to grow our crops. Our farm is part of a larger movement of urban food production, in which community resilience is strengthened and dependence on fossil fuel is lessened.
Building Resilient Communities Workshop Series
All workshops are $25-$40 sliding scale unless otherwise marked, no one
will be turned away due to lack of funds. Space is limited.
Please register at least one week in advance by emailing montview AT
pedalpeople.COM or call 413-825-6795 x306.
PERMACULTURE FUNDAMENTALS, April 3,10-5
Permaculture is a design system that provides for human needs while
increasing the health of the ecosystem. It gives us a lens to obser ve and
assess what is happening in the natural landscape and use those principles
to design food, buildings and communities that work together to use less
energy and produce higher yields. Students will walk away with a
framework for understanding the connection between social and ecological
health as well as a process for designing solutions that come from being
able to “read” a landscape. Each fundamentals session is tailored to the
par ticular season. Ask about discounts for taking all three.
Sliding scale $60-$100, vegetarian lunch provided. With Lisa DePiano
GARDENING 101, April 18, 10-12
Want to have your own garden but don’t know where to star t? In this
workshop we will cover ever ything you need to know to get going. We will
cover soil testing, site preparation, planting schedules, weed and pest
management and more.
With Molly Merrett
MUSHROOM LOG INOCULATION, April 24,1-4
Come learn how to grow your own shitake mushrooms. Take home a log of your
own.
With Jonathan Bates
PERMACULTURE FUNDAMENTALS, May 8, 10-5 (see above description)
RAINWATER CATCHMENT, May 16,1-4
We can harvest rainwater off of our homes, garages, and even our chicken
coops and use it to water our gardens while keeping it from overfilling
our sewer systems and flooding our basements. Come learn how to calculate
how much water we can har vest, learn safe harvesting methods and build a
two barrel system.
MYCOSCAPING: MUSHROOMS IN THE EDIBLE LANDSCAPE, May 29 , 10-4
Even if you’re an avid gardener, if you are only gardening plants, you are
missing out! There is a whole other kingdom to explore – and eat! How can
we incorporate delicious, nutritious fungi in our veggie gardens, food
forests, lawns, and landscaping? In this workshop, we’ll learn some of the
options available to us, and even tr y one or two! We’ll learn how to look
at mushroom crops through a holistic, permaculture lens, and find the
niche in the landscape where they can peform useful ecological functions,
even as they produce food and medicine for us. We’ll review common and
less-common mushroom crops, and different cultivation techniques. We’ll
also talk about how to be smar t and safe when dealing the mushroom
kingdom.
$60-$100 sliding scale. With Rafter T. Sass
SPRING/EARLY SUMMER PLANT WALK, June 6, 1-3
Join us for a stroll around Montview Farm and learn how to identify the
local edible and medicinal herbs, trees and shrubs growing abundantly
right here in the Pioneer Valley! We’ll focus on methods of identification
and har vesting, and discuss easy ways to turn these common “weeds” into
powerful medicine!
With Jade ALICANDRO-MACE
BACKYARD COMPOSTING AND COMPOST TEA BREW, June 13, 1-3
Ever ything you wanted to know about building, maintaining and using your
own backyard compost pile but were afraid to ask. Topics include bin size
and construction methods, proper ratios of materials, to turn or not to
turn, what to add and how, how to rescue a pile gone astray, when is it
finished and the stor y to decomposition. We will end the
workshop by learning how to brew and apply aerated compost tea.
PERMACULTURE FUNDAMENTALS, July 11, 10-5
HERBAL SALVE AND TINCTURE-MAKING, August 29, 12-3
Making your own medicine is fun, empowering and easy! In this workshop all
participants will have the oppor tunity to experience the medicine-making
process for salves and tinctures from star t to finish. We’ll star t with
a shor t herb walk around Montview Farm to decide what we want to har
vest. From there we’ll process the herbs and make some medicine! Par
ticipants will all leave with at least one homemade salve and one
tincture.
with JADE ALICANDRO-MACE
JONATHAN BATES has been thinking and teaching ecologically since 1999. In
2001 Jonathan graduated with a masters degree from the Institute for
Social Ecology. Currently he is an energy advisor for the Center for
Ecological Technology and runs the Permaculture Nursery at Food Forest
Farm He’s been studying, creating and working with rural and urban gardens
in the Connecticut River Valley for the last 7 years, his Forest Garden is
featured in the book Edible Forest Gardens by Dave Jacke and Eric
Toensmier.
LISA DEPIANO is a certified Permaculture designer/teacher and co-founder
of the Montview Neighborhood farm, a human-powered farm and edible forest
garden in the Connecticut River Valley. She has a Master’s degree in
Regional Planning from the University of Massachusetts and loves working
with people to create the world they would like to live in. She also
enjoys local history, community radio, playing contra dance mandolin and
riding with the worker-owned, bicycle-powered hauling ser vice, Pedal
People.
JADE ALICANDRO-MACE is a Community Herbalist grounded in the Wise Woman
Tradition of Herbal Medicine. She has completed numerous herbal training
programs at schools throughout the New England Bio-Region, including the
Nor theast School of Botanical Medicine, Blazing Star Herb School,
Clearpath School of Herbal Studies, and the Gaia School of Healing, and
holds a B.S. in Plant Biology from the University of Massachusetts,
Amherst. Jade truly believes that herbal medicine is the people’s
medicine, and that this knowledge belongs to ever yone. Teaching the
healing proper ties of the plants growing right here in our own backyards,
fields and forests is one of her greatest passions. She is based in the
Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts and offers herbal consultations,
perennial garden suppor t, and seasonal herb walks and workshops. For more
information contact her at Milk and Honey Herbs.
MOLLY MERRETT is the primary grower at the Montview Neighborhood Farm and has been farming for over a decade. She graduated from Hampshire College with a degree in sustainable agriculture and is a collective owner of
Valley Green Feast.
RAFTER T. SASS has been learning, teaching, and practicing Permaculture
design since 2003. His work as consultant, designer, and researcher,
covers themes as diverse as ecological waste and water treatment,
homescale mushroom production, whole farm design, and urban agroforestr y.
This work has taken him from the nor theastern US to Texas to Peru.
He is now studying ecological design at the graduate level in Vermont.
–
Montview Neighborhood Farm
http://www.montviewfarm.org
–
————————————————
Montview Neighborhood Farm
http://www.montviewfarm.org
Pedal People
http://www.pedalpeople.com
Valley Time Trade
http://commonwealthcenter.org/timebank.htm
Hilltown Families said,
March 11, 2010 at 9:55 am
Tomasin Whitaker writes:
Hello, Energy Communities of Western Massachusetts –
MassSAVE, the utility-funded no-cost home energy audit program, has just added FREE air sealing to their services.
Air sealing (sealing unnecessary air leaks in attics and basements) is often the most effective measure in terms of improving a home’s energy efficiency. In an older home, all the small leaks can be equivalent to having a window wide open all winter long. It is also a measure that can be suitable for homeowners who have knob & tube — a major “roadblock” to adding insulation.
The free air sealing is offered in addition to:
- $2,000 savings already available for attic, wall and basement insulation
- 0% interest loan up to $15,000 for insulation, high-efficiency heating systems, windows and solar hot water systems
Call MassSAVE at 1-866-527-7283 to schedule a no-cost home energy audit.
Tightening up their homes for free is a concrete step that people can take this spring to increase their home’s energy efficiency, and to celebrate Earth Day.
Thanks,
Tomasin Whitaker, CET
–
Tomasin Whitaker
Clean Energy Outreach Coordinator
Center for Ecological Technology (CET)
320 Riverside Drive 1-A, Florence, MA 01062
Tel 413-586-7350 ext. 225 / Fax 413-586-7351
tomasin@cetonline.org / Visit http://www.cetonline.org
Hilltown Families said,
March 11, 2010 at 6:44 am
Green Energy Workshops Planned For Educators and Youth Group Leaders
A workshop to prepare educators and community youth group leaders to teach and empower youth about renewable energy and to reward them for becoming agents of positive change is planned forApril 1 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Reid Middle School in Pittsfield. The Center for Ecological Technology (CET) is hosting the workshop, which will be presented by the Northeast Sustainable Energy Association (NESEA).
The programs are Clean Green Power, an introduction to the technology involved in clean, renewable energy and conservation for K-12 youth; Wind Wisdom, where youth aged 10 and up learn the basics of wind energy; and the Junior Solar Sprint, where middle school students design and build model solar electric vehicles and have the opportunity to compete in the Berkshire Area Junior Solar Sprint on June 5 at Reid Middle School. Top teams are then invited to the annual JSS Northeast Championship on June 13 in Springfield.
Participating teachers and youth group leaders will enjoy hands-on activities and receive guidebooks that will help them create lesson plans to bring to the classroom. Students can take personal action to spread the word with a project of their own choosing, earning a patch and certificates, with special Girl Scout patches available.
Registration is required. The workshop is free to educators living or working within the Western Massachusetts Electric Company (WMECO) area and $20 for others.
For more information or to register, contact Cynthia Grippaldi at cynthiag@cetonline.org, or call 445-4556 ext. 25.
CET is a non-profit energy and resource conservation organization serving western Massachusetts for over 30 years. CET receives funding from the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. CET is an equal opportunity employer and service provider.
Hilltown Families said,
February 23, 2010 at 8:30 am
Monday, March 1st in Cummington, MA (FREE)
Food, Inc. will be screened at the Sustainability Library (located above The Old Creamery) in Cummington on Monday, March 1st at 7pm. Free and open to the public.
Hilltown Families said,
February 18, 2010 at 6:52 pm
GROW MORE, MOW LESS:
A Mini Gardening Workshop
March 2nd, 2010, 7:00 – 9:00 PM
This is the March 2010 meeting of the
West County Resilience Conversation
Shelburne Senior Center 7 Main Street, Shelburne Falls
FREE!
The West County Resilience Conversation presents: GROW MORE AND MOW LESS
Emma Stamas will lead a discussion designed to help you expand your garden, share seeds, plants, and ideas, and enable you to save money and energy by growing more and mowing less this year.
Emma has been growing garden vegetables for 50 years and would love to share your ideas and questions and discuss the many ways we can lengthen the garden season, cut down on work, increase productivity, and enjoy gardening more. Even if you have only a 4 foot by 4 foot sunny space you can grow more than you would think and if you grow too much you can share your bounty with your community. Bring your questions and ideas and extra seeds to this mini workshop about vegetable gardening.
For more information call Emma at: (413) 624-3240
Hilltown Families said,
February 17, 2010 at 7:45 am
Thursday, March 11th in Northampton, MA
SEED STARTING WORKSHOP
at River Valley Market from 6-7:30 pm
From the team who brought you the canning workshops last fall…learn how to grow seeds inside in winter and then take your plants through the steps to move them into the outdoor garden when it’s warm enough. Space is limited-to reserve your seat, e-mail our Member Services Manager: betsy@rivervalleymarket.coop or call the store, 413-584-2665.
Hilltown Families said,
February 15, 2010 at 10:51 am
Monday, February 15th in Cumminton, MA
“After the Warming”
Movie at the Sustainability Library
Upstairs at the Creamery, Cummington, MA
Monday, February 15, 2010 • 7:00 – 9:00 pm
Set in 2050, Science Historian James Burke uses his usual wealth of knowledge and biting humor to look back at the events of the world from to the dawn of civilization, and shows how climate changes effected human history. At the point of the Industrial Revolution, humans started to do things to the climate, rather than the other way round.
When he brings us up to date (Release date – 1989), that is when the predictions begin. From Kyoto to the two Gulf Wars, Burke accurately predicts many of the events that have taken place so far. His predictions have been sound, even to the tune of carbon credits and climate change agreements.
Long before Al Gore, there was James Burke. His Connections series was all about science and technology, and how they effect human history and culture. This science prediction film is quite compelling and worth a view.
Entertaining, yet chilling – illuminates complexities without dashing hopes – motivational.
Informative, yet understandable, this film is appropriate for all ages, but most understandable for ages 12 and up.
Free and Open to the Public
Hilltown Families said,
February 6, 2010 at 7:32 pm
Saturday, March 13th in Greenfield, MA
The Third Annual “Cabin Fever” Seed Swap
Come to the upstairs meeting room at GreenFields Market, Greenfield, MA for a rousing and rollicking seed swap, to be held from 1 to 4 o’clock pm on Saturday March 13! Bring your seeds of all kinds, info and advice, and plenty of enthusiasm for seed saving and sharing! Experts, old pros, complete novices, and everyone in between are encouraged! No one will be turned away, even if you have no seeds to share! Seed swapping is Radical!!! For more information, contact Melinda, 774-2220 or melindamccreven@hotmail.com
Hilltown Families said,
February 4, 2010 at 1:02 pm
Kate Kerivan writes:
We are exploring the possibility of co-housing/co-ownership and cooperative farming in Ashfield on 50 acres of old fields, ponds, wetlands and woods that we have been restoring as a working berry farm for the last 5 years. There are large numbers of native high bush blueberries we continue to work on restoring by selective cutting of overstory. Last year we put up a 72′ long high tunnel greenhouse specifically for early berries and other niche crops for farmers market. There is a large farmhouse, outbuildings and potential for two more (small) house sites. We keep bees, use honey in and process our value added berry products at a community kitchen (FCCDC in Greenfield). This site is particularly suitable for permaculture, and not traditional row crops. We are looking for 2 to 5 mature individuals that have a passion for outdoor work and play and with sufficient income/savings for an initial investment. Please refer to our website for more information:
Kate Kerivan
Owner/grower
Bug Hill Farm
POB 516, Ashfield Ma 01330
(413) 628-3980
http://www.bughillfarm.org
Hilltown Families said,
February 4, 2010 at 6:58 am
Dear Environmental Friends,
You may have heard of the Transition Towns movement out of the U.K. and now rapidly going global: http://www.transitiontowns.org. This movement is more good fun than we’re all used to having on environmentally-related work!! I’m giving free talks and support to any community interested in exploring “Transition”. I’ve become one of the trainers in the U.S. , and spent a month in the U.K. last year working with Transition leaders to develop the model for U.S. communities.
Below and attached is information about the “Training for Transition” – the U.K. two-day course that has spawned hundreds of Transition Initiatives there. And, if you’d like to come for the Friday evening potluck social and movie, that’s free and all are invited! Feel free to forward the invitation.
Best wishes,
Tina Clarke
tinaclarke@transitionnetwork.org
413-863-5253
—–
ALL WELCOME to join in the Friday, February 26th evening Potluck, Socializing & Film Potluck at 6:30 p.m., Film at 7:30 p.m.
TRAINING for TRANSITION
February 27th – 28th, 2009
Woolman Hill Retreat Center
Deerfield, Western Massachusetts
Transition United States (www.transitionus.org) is offering the two-day Training for Transition course as developed by Naresh Giangrande and Sophy Banks of the Transition Network in Totnes , England (www.transitiontowns.org). The course is an in-depth experiential introduction to Transition for those considering bringing Transition to their community. It meets the training requirement for local initiating groups to become an internationally-recognized Transition Town .
At the Training for Transition course, you will:
• Experience and explore the Transition ethos
• Learn ways of creating a positive, shared vision for your community’s future
• Receive tools for community outreach, education and engagement
• Learn how to summarize the Triple Challenge of Peak Oil, Climate, and Economic Instability in ways that move people to positive action
• Explore the obstacles that have prevented our communities from recognizing and positively responding to the challenge of energy transition
• Expand your knowledge of options for responding to common obstacles
• Receive support for becoming a Transition catalyst in your community
• Connect with others who want to help create Transition in this region
• Become a part of one a rapidly growing positive, inspirational, global movement!
Curriculum: The course describes how to set up, run, and maintain a successful Transition Initiative. It is packed with imaginative and inspiring ways to engage your community, and delves into both the theory and practice of Transition that has worked so well in hundreds of communities in the U.K. and around the world.
Who should attend: People interested in learning about Transition Towns in greater depth and leaders already creating a Transition Initiative in their community
Instructors: Tina Clarke and Shaktari Belew , U.S. Transition Towns Trainers
Schedule:
Saturday, Feb. 27: Registration: 9:00 AM. Workshop: 9:30-5:00 PM with a 1-hour lunch break
Sunday, Feb. 28, Workshop: 9:30-5:00 PM with a 1-hour lunch break
Optional Friday evening potluck, conversation & film: Woolman Hill Conference Center , 6:30 p.m. potluck, 7:30 Film. Free. ALL WELCOME!
Cost: $180 per person by Feb. 19, and $200 after Feb. 19. A $100 deposit holds your place. Lunch, refreshments and materials included. (Lodging not included — see below.) Some partial scholarships may be available for people with low incomes or for work exchange. If you can give extra money for scholarships, your generosity will help those with low incomes to attend. Bring a friend and both of you get 10% off: $162 each ($180 each after Feb. 19).
Registration: Send a note and your registration fee ($180) or deposit ($100—with the remaining $80 due on the first day of the workshop), plus scholarship donation (if you can) to: Catherine Ratte, PVPC, 26 Central Street, West Springfield, MA 01089, with a check made out to Pioneer Valley Regional Ventures Center. OR: Contact Catherine Ratte at the Pioneer Valley Planning Commission to reserve a space and then send your check. Email: cratte@pvpc.org Phone: 413-781-6045 x311.
Preparation: Participants are asked to do advance preparation:
Reading
• The Transition Handbook: From Oil Dependency to Local Resilience, by Rob Hopkins
• Transition Primer (free at: http://transitionnetwork.org/ Primer/ TransitionInitiativesPrimer. pdf)
Suggested Viewing
• The Power of Community: How Cuba Survived Peak Oil
• Crude Impact or A Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash
• 6 Degrees
Location: Woolman Hill is a charming, rustic Quaker retreat center above the Connecticut and Deerfield rivers in western Massachusetts . http://www.woolmanhill.org Come early and relax! Historic Old Deerfield is two minutes away: http://www.historic-deerfield.org
Public Transportation: Amtrak (www.amtrak.com) serves Springfield , MA from Boston and NYC. Peter Pan Bus (www.peterpanbus.com) and Greyhound provide connections to Greenfield , MA . Woolman Hill is only 5 minutes from Greenfield , and we will pick you up.
Sleeping Accommodations: Some overnight accommodations are available. Bedrooms in the retreat center sleep from two to six people, dormitory style (bunks, twins, and three doubles).
Two rustic cabins may also be available. Guests generally bring their own bedding and bath towels, unless other arrangements are made in advance. Cost is $85 per bed for the weekend (Friday 5:00 to Sunday afternoon)
CAR-POOLING: Check out http://www.ridebuzz.org!
Hilltown Families said,
January 14, 2010 at 9:05 am
Organic. It’s Worth it in Schools.
Organic Trade Association Launches Contest for Students, Teachers to Win Organic Garden or Fully Stocked Organic Vending Machine
Reading, writing, arithmetic, and now, the fourth R: real food. This spring, the Organic Trade Association (OTA), headquartered right here in Western Mass, is helping schools access and offer students more organic food with a national contest to award a winning school with an organically grown garden or an organic vending machine.
With its “Organic. Its Worth it in Schools.” initiative, launching yesterday, the OTA – which represents more than 1,400 organic food and product companies – is calling on teachers, parents, students, educators and others to vote for their favorite school to win an organic garden complete with seeds, soil and expert gardening support; or a fully stocked vending machine, which can feature organic items like milk, fruit, cheese, yogurt and snacks.
Through May 1, 2010, individuals visit http://www.OrganicItsWorthIt.org and enter their school name and address while at the same time “voting” by signing up for an electronic newsletter featuring organic tips, recipes, news and more. A school must receive a minimum 1,000 votes (or newsletter sign-ups) to win. (Full details on rules and regulations are at http://www.organicitsworthit.org/join/current-campaigns.) The winning school selects the garden or vending machine for installation in the 2010-11 school year.
“Organic food is the only food certified by the USDA to have no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, irradiation and genetically modified organisms (GMO’s). And, organically grown gardens use no harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers on the soil,” said Christine Bushway, executive director of OTA. “We know schools in large cities and small towns work hard to promote healthy food and environmental stewardship. With ‘Organic. It’s Worth it in Schools.,’ we want to provide them with one more tool to help them along.”
The site also features tools and information for schools, parents and students to advocate for more organic food in schools, as well as information about the healthful, economic and social benefits of organic food and gardening.
“Be honest: our children are at the heart of our worlds. Because we care, they influence the schedules we keep, the cars we buy, the entertainment we consume and the food we purchase,” said Stanford pediatrician Dr. Alan Greene. “But when we send our kids off to school, we have little control over what they eat. The more we can provide healthy organic food and organic gardening in schools today, the further we can go in ensuring a healthy future for our kids and our soil.”
The Organic Trade Association is conducting the initiative as an extension of its first-ever national consumer education and awareness campaign, which launched in March 2009. “Organic. It’s worth it.” is an online outreach effort highlighting the benefits of organic food, farming and home products.
About the Organic Trade Association
Founded nearly 25 years ago, the Organic Trade Association (OTA) is the membership-based business association for organic agriculture and products in North America. Its more than 1,400 members include growers, shippers, processors, certifiers, farmers’ associations, distributors, importers, exporters, consultants, retailers and others. OTA’s mission is to promote and protect the growth of organic trade to benefit the environment, farmers, the public and the economy. http://www.ota.com
Hilltown Families said,
January 3, 2010 at 6:15 pm
Sunday, January 31st in Amherst, MA
Transition Towns: Increasing Community Resilience in a Time of Change
Tina Clarke, Transition Towns Trainer
Sunday, January 31, 7-9pm
Donation requested, sliding scale, $5-$20
Pre-registration required; please call 413-256-6006.
Transition Towns are communities that are proactively addressing the “Triple Challenge” of long-term rising energy costs, economic instability and climate change. Launched in the U.K.,where 1,000 communities are involved and The Transition Handbook was among the top ten books read by Members of Parliament in 2008, the Transition Towns model and process helps local citizens and groups work together to build resilience for economic and environmental changes unfolding locally and globally. With the Transition Towns movement growing rapidly in the U.K. and around the world, Tina has become one of the Trainers in the U.S. We are happy to welcome her to Hitchcock to share this insightful and inspiring process for engaging large numbers of people in creative transition from dependence upon non-renewable energy sources to greater community resilience and quality of life.
Amy Donovan said,
November 28, 2009 at 9:18 am
Gift wrap IS recyclable! Reuse what you can and toss the ripped up stuff into your paper recycling bin. (Do not include gift wrap with metallic ink, glitter, or foil) When opening gifts, use a brown paper bag to capture gift wrap, tissue paper, greeting cards, envelopes, boxes.
The details, from the Springfield MRF’s website:
(Springfield MRF is where recycling from 80 towns in Western Mass goes)
DO Recycle:
-gift-wrap (except those with foil, metallic ink, or glitter)
-greeting cards (except those with foil, glitter, or wire)
-corrugated cardboard boxes
-paperboard gift boxes
-catalogs
DO NOT Recycle:
-ribbons, bows, and tinsel
-packing peanuts, bubble wrap, styrofoam
-”blister pack” plastic packaging from toys, electronics, etc. This is the stuff that is impossible to open and is shaped like the object inside the package.
If you have any questions about recycling, please contact the recycling hotline at 888-888-0784, ext. 2293.
Hilltown Families said,
November 19, 2009 at 5:44 am
GREEN Northampton is starting a free service available immediately to all businesses and residents in Northampton, GARBAGE AUDITS. GREEN Northampton has formed teams of auditors to visit homes and offices and give informational and sometimes excavational exploration into garbage, recycling and other collections of objects thata need a destination other than the landfill.
Mary Clark of Florence was among the first to receive an audit. “I found I could recycle or compost much more than I had thought. I learned which old appliances I could put in scrap metal rather than just throwing them away. The auditors answered my questions about things like whether I could recycle old Drano bottles (yes, if rinsed) or old videotapes (donate to the Got Books Box at the transfer station on Locust Street.) My waste basket literally went from full to half empty.
“The process,” continued Clark, “first you call GREEN Northampton.The audit team shows up at your house or business.You show the audit team your trash and recycling bins. The audit team dumps your trash onto a tarp, pulls out the recyclables, re-usables and compostables while you watch. You end up with less trash and a better understanding of what is reusable, recyclable, compostable and where things should go that should be buried at the landfill.”
The garbage audits are a variation on the energy audits that are part of the MassSave energy saving program in Massachusetts. In that program, homeowners can contact the Center for Ecological Technology (for homes with oil heat) or Honeywell (for homes that heat with gas) for free energy audits which result in recommendations on increasing the energy efficiency either by air sealing or added insulation. In GREEN Northampton’s program, homeowners can now request a free garbage and recycling audit to increase their recycling and lower their trash bill.
GREEN Northampton is working with Karen Bouquillon, Northampton DPWs Solid
Waste Manager. Ms. Bouquillon, who is also on the advisory board at the MRF in Springfield, is Northampton’s ultimate say on defining recyclables. She is working with audit teams to insure that their analysis meets her gold standard of separation.
Are these recyclable? Metal soda bottle caps? YES! Metal lids from jars? YES! Paper envelopes with plastic windows? YES! If you can rip paper, it’s recyclable. Disposable plastic forks, knives, spoons and cups? NO!!! NO!! NO! Plastic bottle screw tops? NO!!! Black plastic deli containers? NO BLACK PLASTIC is recyclable.
For many things like disposable plastic utensils and cups the best way to avoid their path to the landfill is not to buy or use them in the first place. Instead GREEN Northampton advises buying and using reusable plastic utensils and cups that can be used indefinitely and perhaps will never end up in the landfill.
Acoording to David Starr, co-founder of GREEN Northampton, “There’s lots of confusion about what is recyclable and what’s not recyclable. Experts don’t always agree. Our purpose is to provide a consistent voice on what is recyclable for the city of Northampton. This should tremendously increase compliance with the 1988
Northampton recycling ordinance that requires all businesses and residents to recycle all recyclable items. We feel the city of Northampton needs to commit more resources to educating the public. This is GREEN Northampton’s attempt to amplify the recycling message and divert as much solid waste from the landfill as possible. Our goal is to divert 90% of the solid waste stream from the landfill to prevent its closure. With increased recycling rates and aggressive composting, we could meet that goal. We reduced the food waste at the Jackson Street School cafeteria by 87% in just three weeks with no funding and just a few volunteers. Imagine what we could do in three months citywide with enough manpower and funds to promote the effort. If we diverted 90% of the solid waste from the landfill, we wouldn’t need to have an expansion conversation
until 2015.”
To sign up for a free garbage audit, contact David Starr, David.Starr@Comcast.net.
Chris Matera said,
November 4, 2009 at 7:28 pm
Biomass Fuel Plants would require cutting 100,000 Acres of Massachusetts Forests Every Year
In 16 Years, 3152 square miles of Massachusetts Forests would be logged
For Immediate Release
Northampton, MA – November 6th, 2009
Massachusetts Forest Watch today revealed hard statistics of how much forest would be logged in order to satisfy Biomass power plant fuel demands.
The statistics are sobering for Massachusetts forests. To satisfy the wood demands of the planned five Biomass power plants, all of western and central Massachusetts forests would have to be logged in only 16 years at a historical logging intensity of 19 tons per acre. In sum, 197 square miles a year would be logged or a total of 3152 square miles in 16 years which equals all the forest area in central and western Massachusetts.
Logging would have to nearly quadruple in Massachusetts to feed the wood demand for Biomass plants.
Realistically, Massachusetts forest ecosystems and the landscape as viewed by our children in 2025 would look very different than today:
• Many areas would be clear-cut with the large trees taken for saw timber and the remainder clear-cut for biomass fuel
• Forests would be under intense cutting rotations and resemble biomass farms more than peaceful healthy forest eco-systems.
• Forest dependent wildlife would be under intense pressure and species decline would be inevitable
• 200,000 logging truck trips would proliferate on narrow rural roads to deliver enormous amounts of wood to the power plants
Biomass Plants are NOT Carbon Neutral
Earlier this month, Massachusetts Forest Watch (www.maforests.org) released news that Science magazine and other prominent researchers found that Biomass plants are not carbon neutral, as promised by “Green” promoters. Biomass plants release more CO2 per unit of energy than coal plants. In addition, by cutting down and burning trees in established forests, CO2 absorption is reduced and atmospheric CO2 levels are increased.
HERE ARE THE STATISTICS
First, current conditions are evaluated, before any new large biomass incinerators are built in Massachusetts. The current total annual timber harvest (total green tons) and logging intensity (average green tons harvested per acre logged) are calculated.
Timber harvests larger than 25 thousand board-feet (mbf) or 50 cords are recorded by the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR). Harvests, not including tops and branches, are reported using various units – acres, mbf, or cords – and the land area logged is also recorded. (Source: DCR, 2005 Annual Stakeholder Report: Promoting Stewardship of Our Forests for a Safe and Healthy Environment, Economy, and Society, pages 10 and 15.)
Average Annual Massachusetts Timber Harvest (2001-2005 periods):
• Private Forests: 27,561 acres 62,604 mbf 44,806 cords 20,088 green tons
• Public Forests: 1,417 acres 5,487 mbf 3,757 cords 2,425 green tons
• Total: 28,978 acres 68,091 mbf 48,563 cords 22,513 green tons
Convert harvests reported in mbf or cords to green tons using the following conversion factors (Burlington Electric):
1 mbf = 2 cords 1 cord = 2.5 green tons 1 mbf = 5 green tons
Tree tops and branches that would be part of biomass incinerator fuel need to be added to the harvest numbers above, using Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources information ( Biomass Availability Analysis – Five Counties of Western Massachusetts, page 13): A total of 29% additional mass is in tops and branches. Use 50% for forest biomass and leave 50% to replenish forest floor, therefore need to add 14.5% to the reported timber harvest.
The total average annual Massachusetts timber harvest, including tops and branches is then:
Total = [68,091 (5) + 48,563 (2.5) + 22,513] x 1.145 = 554,610 green tons
Typical logging intensity = 554,610 green tons / 28,978 acres = 19 green tons per acre
Proposed Logging
Next, the additional demand that would be exerted by the proposed biomass incinerators is estimated. The calculation does not include the existing 17 megawatt (MW) biomass incinerator (Pine tree) in Westminster since its demand is currently being met and any supply from Massachusetts is covered under the current logging calculation. Power reported by the biomass incinerator developers in MW is multiplied by 13,000 green tons/MW (DCR, Biomass Availability Analysis – Five Counties of Western Massachusetts Renewable Biomass from the Forests of Massachusetts, page 11.)
The biomass incinerators propose to burn a combination of forest biomass and “waste wood” that includes tree tops and branches sawmill residue, land clearing, pallets, and the woody fraction of construction and demolition (C&D) debris. Available waste wood is subtracted from the total increase in demand for wood to calculate the forest biomass needed. In addition, the biomass incinerator in Springfield proposes to burn mostly C&D wood, and only approximately 25% forest biomass, therefore its forest biomass demand is reduced accordingly.
Megawatts Powered by Forest Biomass + “Waste Wood”
Fitchburg 15
Greenfield 47
Pittsfield 40
Russell 50
Springfield 38
Total 190
Forest Biomass + “Waste Wood” Needed for Proposed Incinerators
Wood Demand = 190 MW x 13,000 green tons/MW = 2,470,000 green tons
Forest Biomass Needed for Proposed Incinerators
Need to subtract out available “waste wood” from total wood needed for fuel. In-state reported available “waste” wood of 629,000 green tons is accounted for ( Biomass Availability Analysis – Five Counties of Western Massachusetts, page 31).
Forest Biomass Demand = 2,470,000 – 629,000 = 1,841,000 green tons
Current Plus Proposed Logging
Total Forest Biomass Demand = 554,610 + 1,841,000 = 2,395,610 green tons
Required Annual Acreage Proposed to Be Logged
The total area that would need to be logged each year is calculated by dividing the total demand by the current logging intensity of 19 green tons/acre.
Total Annual Cut = 2,395,610 green tons/19 green tons/acres = 126,085 acres
= 197 square miles
Total Annual Cut Weighted Distribution Around Each Incinerator
The annual acreage that would need to be logged around each incinerator shown on the animations is proportionate to its power generation. The Springfield incinerator proposes to burn approximately 75% C&D wood, therefore 75% of the MW (28 MW) for the Springfield incinerator is excluded from the calculation.
Fitchburg 126,085 *15/(190-28) = 11,675 acres
Greenfield 126,085* 47/(190-28) = 36,580 acres
Pittsfield 126,085 * 40/(190-28) = 31,132 acres
Russell 126,085 * 50/(190-28) = 38,915 acres
Springfield 126,085 * (38-28)/(190-28) = 7,783 acres
Forest Power Generating Capacity Increase
Total 2007 generating capacity = 13,557 MW ( US Government Energy Information Association)
Capacity Increase = 190 / 13,557 = 1.4%
More information online at maforests.org
Hilltown Families said,
October 27, 2009 at 5:05 am
CCRVI Seeking Shelburne Falls Home Owners for Perennial Food Garden Design Project (Shelburne Falls, MA)
Shelburne Falls Food Security Project Next Step:
The Central Connecticut River Valley Institute (“CCRVI”) will be taking the next step in its Shelburne Falls Food Security Project this fall and winter in cooperation with permaculture design consultant, Valerie Palar, of Shelburne Falls, MA. We will be creating a set of standard designs for small, family-oriented, perennial food garden plots which can be easily used by families wishing to create their own perennial food garden. Each design will be focused on a different set of garden characteristics so that the entire set will offer options for the diverse possible garden plots home owners may have in their yards.
Perennial food gardens differ from annual gardens in that they are longer-term installations and involve a more complex combination of plants each of which plays a different part in creating a “landscape that grows food.” Designing a workable perennial food garden requires more thought than an annual garden and a trained designer can be very helpful. By creating and publishing a set of standard, easy-to-replicate perennial food garden designs, CCRVI intends to give home owners a tool which will make it easier for them to try out this new and exciting way of growing food.
CCRVI is seeking 5 home owners in the Village of Shelburne Falls who are interested in having a perennial food garden plot designed for their yard. Ms. Palar will work with the home owners to create designs that meet their needs. The total cost for these designs is expected to be in the range of $200 – $400.
CCRVI will subsidize the development of these standard designs by paying half of the design cost – with a maximum subsidy of $200 per design. Participating home owners must agree to have their designs documented with drawings and photos and then be made available to the public for free through CCRVI’s website.
Home owners will be selected for the project on the basis of their interest in perennial food gardening and how the nature of their proposed garden space fits into the overall goals of the project. Persons interested in participating in this project should call Will Flanders at 413-625-2525 or Valerie Palar at 413-625-9350.
Valerie Palar comes to permaculture design through years of immersion in nature awareness and cultural mentoring. She recently completed her permaculture design training and is excited about making perennial food gardening more known and available. She was trained by Ethan Roland, a student of Dave Jacke, the co-author of Edible Forest Gardens.
Hilltown Families said,
October 8, 2009 at 8:02 am
1st & 3rd Wednesdays in Easthampton, MA &
1st & 3rd Sundays in Easthampton, MA
Sew Bags in Easthampton for The BagShare Project
EASTWORKS, 116 Pleasant Street, Easthampton, MA, Room 145 (next to Registry of Motor Vehicles)
All are welcome, beginner or experienced sewer, adult or child, male or female! We have machines and fabric, or bring your own if you’d like to, or drop off donations. No sign up necessary. Stop in just to say hello, bring friends. Help fill out tags or cut fabric if you don’t like to sew, or learn to sew if you’d like to. Learn the BagShare’s new five minute “jiffy bag” pattern!
EVERY FIRST AND THIRD WEDNESDAY of the month, 6-9 p.m.
EVERY FIRST AND THIRD SUNDAY of the month, 1-4 p.m.
Eastworks Bag Sew contact list
First Wednesdays, Chris Cavallari, email: cavallari56@hotmail.com
Third Wednesdays, Molly Hale, email: hellomolly@comcast.net
Sundays, Barbara Crane, email: Barbara.crane@charter.net
CET said,
September 11, 2009 at 11:32 am
Green Drinks
September 9 (Northampton)
September 15 (Pittsfield)
September 22 (Springfield)
September 25 (Chatham)
Come join other environmentalists for an informal gathering of networking and fun!
Green Drinks events are a great opportunity to make green connections and talk about green ideas.
Green Drinks are regularly scheduled events that begin at 5:15 p.m. at the Route 7 Grill at 999 Main St, Great Barrington on the first Wednesday of each month, at 5:30 p.m. at the Northampton Brewery on the second Wednesday of the month, at 5:30 p.m. at various locations in Franklin County, MA on the first Wednesday of the month, and at 5:15 p.m. at the Pittsfield Brew Works on the third Tuesday of the month, and at Theodore’s in Springfield on the 4th Tuesday of the month from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
CISA said,
August 20, 2009 at 11:05 am
CISA Launches Campaign to Save FarmShare Program
Effort to help feed low-income seniors
South Deerfield, MA – Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA), announced today that it will launch a campaign to raise funds to save its Senior FarmShare program, which has been providing shares of the local farm produce to low-income seniors in Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden counties since 2004. The program suffered a loss of all of its state funding and is at risk of being eliminated in 2010 if private funds cannot be secured.
CISA’s Senior FarmShare program enables approximately 300 low-income seniors to become “shareholders” at a local farm and receive shares of the farm’s varied harvest for 9 weeks during the peak of the growing season. Shares provide enough produce for a week, and often are delivered to local senior centers or senior housing sites to make pick-up easier for the seniors. In addition to ensuring fresh, healthy foods in senior diets, the Senior FarmShare program provides farmers with reliable income and builds stronger ties between farmers and the community.
“This is a valuable program that allows our most vulnerable elders to share in the bounty”, says CISA’s Executive Director Philip Korman. “Despite the loss of funds we want to keep the embers alive until the state can once again help fund the program.” The Senior FarmShare program has been aided in the past by contributions from area churches, and from local businesses and foundations such as Whole Foods Market, Chicopee Savings Bank, the Xeric Foundation and the Citizens Bank Foundation.
Anyone interested in making a contribution can go to http://www.buylocalfood.org to read more about the program or to download the Senior FarmShare program fact sheet and to donate on-line. Korman added that CISA will need to raise $25,000 for the program over the next eight weeks. Contributions will be used to fund the cost of individual senior shares and outreach and training to participating farms and host distribution sites.
CISA is a nationally recognized organization comprised of farmers, institutions and residents working together to strengthen local agriculture by building connections between farmers and the community.
More information about CISA can be found at http://www.buylocalfood.org.
Hilltown Families said,
August 14, 2009 at 12:43 pm
Monday, August 24th in Shelburne Falls, MA
Come to Boswell’s Books (http://www.boswellsbooks.com/) in Shelburne Falls, MA at 7 pm on Monday, August 24, when CISA will host Jill Richardson, author of the new book “Recipe for America: Why Our Food System is Broken and What We Can Do to Fix It”. A food activist and creater of the blog La Vida Locavore, Jill seeks to provide an overview of the current problematic food system and her vision of what a sustainable food system would look like from the soil on up.
Hilltown Families said,
August 12, 2009 at 1:29 pm
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITY
Volunteers are critical to the success of the Wild & Scenic program on the Westfield River. There are many ways to get involved with varying degrees of commitment. The following list (http://www.westfieldriverwildscenic.org/volunteer.html) is a sampling of some of the areas we’re currently looking for help in. If any of these jobs appeals to you, if you’d like more information, or if you just love the river and good fellowship, and you have some time you’d be willing to give, please email the National Wild & Scenic Westfield River Organization at volunteer@westfieldriverwildscenic.org.
Hilltown Families said,
August 1, 2009 at 8:13 pm
West County Resilience Conversation
Monthly Meeting, August 4, 2009
The monthly meeting of the West County Resilience Conversation will be held at the Shelburne Senior Center, 7 Main Street, Shelburne Falls, MA 01370, on Tuesday evening, August 4, 2009, from 7:00 – 9:00 PM.
Contact:
Will Flanders
413-625-2525
Hilltown Families said,
July 15, 2009 at 9:41 pm
DOWNING FLOATS STRATEGY FURTHER PROTECTING LAKES AND PONDS
Senator Benjamin B. Downing (D-Pittsfield) has teamed up with the Lakes and Ponds Association of Western Massachusetts (LAPA-West) and the Berkshire Regional Planning Commission (BRPC) to further protect Berkshire County’s inland lakes and ponds from invasive aquatic species.
Today, Downing filed An Act Protecting Lakes and Ponds – legislation prohibiting boaters from launching a vessel exposed to contaminated waters over the last thirty days that has not been properly decontaminated upon the inland waters of the Commonwealth.
The bill defines “invasive species” as an alien species whose introduction does or is likely to cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health. This definition was used in President Clinton’s Executive Order 13112 on February 3, 1999 and is recognized by the scientific community and environmental groups nationwide.
“Massachusetts’ lakes and ponds are a valuable natural resource, providing wildlife habitat and destinations for various outdoor recreational activities,” said Downing. “Boaters have a responsibility to make sure their vessels and equipment are thoroughly flushed, washed and dried to prevent the unintentional spread of invasive species. This proposal codifies that obligation and authorizes environmental law enforcement officers to enforce its practice.”
In June LAPA-West and BRPC approached Downing and requested he review their legislative recommendations to prevent the spread of invasive species in Massachusetts’ lakes and ponds, citing similar statutes in Maine, Connecticut and Minnesota. Downing’s bill authorizes the Massachusetts Environmental Police to enforce the provision, and outlines the penalty as a fine, ranging from $50 to $300, or imprisonment in a jail or house of correction for not more than 60 days, or both.
“The Lakes and Ponds Association of Western Massachusetts wholeheartedly supports Senator Downing’s efforts to provide those responsible for policing the lakes and ponds in the Commonwealth with this very necessary expansion of powers,” said Jack Hickey, President of LAPA-West.
The bill is especially timely due to the recent discovery of Zebra Mussels in Laurel Lake in Lee and the resulting public boat ramp closures at Center and Yokun Ponds in Becket, Plunkett Reservoir in Hinsdale, Richmond Pond and Stockbridge Bowl.
=====
RELATED ARTICLE:
Invasive zebra mussels found in Massachusetts lake for first time
http://www.gazettenet.com/print/238693
Hilltown Families said,
July 12, 2009 at 8:23 am
Solar for Your Home or Business
Center for Ecological Technology
07/21/2009
Tuesday, 6 pm check-in, 6:30 – 8:30 seminar
$10 suggested donation
Learn the basics about solar technologies, determine whether you have a good site, and find out about current tax credits and generous rebates that make solar more affordable. Pre-registration required.
Agawam Senior Center, 954 Main Street
413-586-7350
tomasin@cetonline.org
http://www.cetonline.org
Hilltown Families said,
July 10, 2009 at 7:28 am
New England’s Premier Vegetable Fuel Event!
JULY 25, 2009
11AM-7PM At Greasecar’s HQ
933 Main St. Holyoke, MA 01040
Greasefest Events Include:
• Vegetable Fueled Vehicles on Display
• Poker Run Style Road Rally
• SVO Related Swap Meet
• Food and Beverages
• Bio-fuel and Sustainable Energy Information
• Live Music and Entertainment
• Car Show and much more Fun!
Sponsored and Hosted by Greasecar Vegetable Fuel Systems
For more information, contact info@greasecar.com, call 413-534-0013,
or visit us at http://www.greasecar.com
Hilltown Families said,
July 9, 2009 at 11:06 am
Natural Food Inc. Responds to OCA’s Criticisms
In last week’s Organic Bytes, OCA criticized Whole Foods Market (WFM) and United Natural Foods for undermining organics by promoting and selling mostly conventional products (greenwashed as “Natural”), instead of certified organic products. OCA and thousands of organic consumers asked WFM & UNFI to begin to put pressure on their so-called “Natural” product suppliers to sign contracts with accredited certifiers and make the transition to organic.
Unfortunately, instead of pressuring these “bottom line” companies to rethink dropping organic ingredients in favor of conventional ingredients, and to stop marketing conventional foods as if they were “as good as” or “nearly organic,” WFM and UNFI have “put the squeeze” on a number of OCA’s advertisers–costing our organization thousands of dollars in lost revenue. In spite of this blatant intimidation, OCA will not be silent. We will continue to expose the myth of so-called “Natural” foods and farming. We will continue educating ethical consumers, retailers, wholesalers, farmers, and food processors to put their money and their practices where their supposed values lie. To learn more, read the new essay by OCA Director Ronnie Cummins: The Organic Monopoly and the Myth of “Natural” Foods: How Industry Giants Are Undermining the Organic Movement …
Click here to read more:
http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_18493.cfm
Hilltown Families said,
July 1, 2009 at 8:30 pm
Downing & Kulik Announce Funding for a Renewable Energy Site Survey at New Hingham Regional Elementary School in Chesterfield
Chesterfield – State Senator Benjamin B. Downing (D-Pittsfield) and State Representative Stephen Kulik (D-Worthington) are pleased to announce that the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative’s Renewable Energy Trust (RET) has awarded up to $5,600 in funding for a Municipal Site Survey of a proposed wind site at the New Hingham Regional Elementary School in Chesterfield, MA.
“By exploring and identifying appropriate sites in western Massachusetts for renewable energy generation we ensure clean energy availability and future costs savings for our region,” said Downing. “We also have a responsibility to make sure our site selection is deliberate and that we strategically site wind projects in locations with minimal environmental impacts. This RET grant will help the New Hingham School community take the necessary preliminary steps to do just that.”
The site survey will provide valuable information used for identifying advantages and disadvantages of wind generation on the school’s property and whether the proposed site is of sufficient size and wind resource to warrant a detailed site survey. This preliminary survey will help the New Hingham Regional Elementary School Committee determine whether it is reasonable to conduct a more comprehensive feasibility study for a wind project on the site.
Representative Kulik said, “The high elevation and remote location of the New Hingham School presents a great opportunity to study the feasibility of wind power to provide greater energy independence and cost savings for the people of Chesterfield and Goshen. A successful wind project at the school will also be a great and inspiring educational tool for the children.”
The Renewable Energy Trust is an arm of the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative which provides financial assistance to individuals and businesses to support renewable energy projects that maximize environmental and economic benefits to the Commonwealth. To learn more about the organization, visit http://www.masstech.org/renewableenergy/index.html.
Hilltown Families said,
June 26, 2009 at 7:39 am
Solar Energy for Your Home or Business
Tuesday, July 21
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
(6 p.m. check-in)
Agawam Senior Center
There really has never been a better time to consider solar for your home or business. You’ll learn the basics about solar technologies, determine whether you have a good site, and find out about current tax credits and generous rebates that help make solar more affordable, including a 0% interest loan through the MassSAVE home energy efficiency program to finance solar hot water systems. Registration is required and a donation of $10 is suggested. For more information and to register, contact Tomasin Whitaker at 413-586-7350 ext. 25.
============
Take a tour of the Zephyr wind turbine
Saturday, July 25
1 p.m.
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort
CET coordinates occasional tours of Jiminy Peak’s 1.5 megawatt wind turbine, which supplies approximately 33% of the resort’s electrical needs. Advance registration is required, and there is a charge of $9 per person for a lift ticket to ride the Berkshire Express to the top of the mountain. From there, tour goers will enjoy a strenuous hike of about 1/4 mile from the top of the chairlift to the Zephyr, and then after the tour, can either walk down to pick up the Alpine Slide, or opt to hike down to the base of the mountain. Please wear appropriate footwear! Reserve your space now–contact Nancy Nylen or call 413-738-5500 ext. 3760.
============
South Berkshire mini site HHW collection
Wednesday, July 29
4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Lenox DPW
Old unwanted oil based paints, stains, thinners, turpentine and used motor oil cluttering up your garage? Don’t miss this collection–it’s for residents of towns belonging to the Southern Berkshire HHW Collaborative. If you don’t live in one of these towns, call your transfer station to find out where and when you can responsibly dispose of these toxic products. Registration is mandatory. Contact Rob Tocchio at 413-445-4556, ext. 30 to register.
============
South Berkshire HHW Comprehensive Collection
Saturday, July 11
9 a.m. to noon
Stockbridge Recycling Center
These collections don’t come along too often, so don’t miss your chance to dig out all the toxic products from under the workbench, in the garage, beneath the kitchen sink, and in your hobby closet and bid them a safe and sound farewell. This collection is open to residents of towns belonging to the Southern Berkshire HHW Collaborative. Businesses, organizations and schools from across Berkshire County may also participate, for a fee. Registration is mandatory. Contact Rob Tocchio at 413-445-4556, ext. 30 for information on what is accepted at these collections and to register. No latex paint accepted at any HHW collection. Let latex paint dry up and dispose of it with your regular trash.
============
Searsburg Wind Facility Tours
Wednesday, July 15
Wednesday, July 29
Searsburg, Vermont
Eleven 550-kilowatt wind turbines make up this 6-megawatt power plant that provides enough emission-free electricity to supply the electric needs of 1,600 average Vermont households. Searsburg is a unique educational resource and research tool for investigating wind generation in cold climates. These periodic tours are offered to give the public an opportunity to get a closer look at an operating wind power site. Tour dates and size of groups are limited. If you would like to experience an operational wind power facility up close, contact Cynthia Grippaldi at 413-445-4556 ext. 25.
Hilltown Families said,
June 23, 2009 at 8:11 am
Karma Krew http://www.karmakrew.org:
June 1 – July 12:
In June, Karma Krew will be hosting a food collection drive in cooperation with the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts. Collection boxes will be housed at: Yoga Center Amherst, Karuna Yoga Center & Yoga Sanctuary in Northampton, Vega Yoga in Holyoke and Green River Yoga Center in Greenfield. This collection drive is specifically targeting the immense need of our areas’ families whose children receive school vouchers for lunches during the school year, but often do not get the nutrition support to feed their children! Please consider stopping by one of these yoga centers between June 1 – July 10 to make a donation of canned goods. If you are unable to stop by one of the area yoga centers but would like to make a donation, please email me to arrange for a pick up.
The Food Collection drive will culminate in a donation based yoga class on July 12 from 9:30 – 11am at the Green River Yoga Center taught by Deb Neubauer. You must pre-register for this class by contacting me at: debn@rcn.com. Class size is limited to 20. Suggested donation will be between $5 – 15 and all donations will be put toward the purchases of our next collection drive: Back pack and school supplies.
SW said,
June 18, 2009 at 9:56 am
A Quarter Million Experimental “Frankentrees” to Be Grown in U.S
The USDA is currently taking public comments on whether or not the company ArborGen should be allowed to conduct 29 field trials of genetically engineered “cold tolerant” eucalyptus trees in the U.S. This massive experiment, which is on the verge of being green-lighted, will literally be using nature as the laboratory to test more than 260,000 frankentrees. Scientists across the U.S. are voicing concerns over this proposal including:
-The USDA failed to do an Environmental Impact Statement to assess potential negative issues related to the proposed field trials.
-The spread of the these plants into the wild through seeds and plant matter is highly likely, and the impacts on native ecosystems from this invader are unknown
.-One of the experimental GE tree varieties is a known host for cryptococcus gatti, a fatal fungal pathogen whose spores cause meningitis in people and animals.
Comments are being accepted by the USDA until July 6, 2009.
Learn more and take action: http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/642/campaign.jsp?campaign_KEY=27451
VeganBus said,
June 18, 2009 at 9:44 am
Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale in Northampton!
On June 20 through June 28 (two weekends and the weekdays in between), groups from across the world will hold vegan bake sales as part of the Worldwide Vegan Bake Sale (http://www.veganbakesale.org/veganbakesale/index.html). Each participating group gets to choose its venue, what to sell, and how it uses the proceeds. We will be holding two separate sales in Northampton, MA with proceeds going to the Vegan Bus.
Both sales will take place on Saturday, June 27th. The first sale will be from 11am until 1pm in front of the Unitarian Church in downtown Northampton, which is in a prime location next to Pulaski Park and should receive lots of foot traffic. Whatever is left from that sale we will sell later the same evening at our Raquy and the Cavemen fundraising event.
At the sale in the park we will also be handing out literature about the horrors of animal agriculture and the beauty of the vegan diet. We welcome anyone who is interested in making some vegan baked goods for us to sell. Please contact us if you are interested. We would also love volunteers to hang out at the table with us to help with sales and talking to people about veganism.
Hilltown Families said,
June 18, 2009 at 8:41 am
Google PowerMeter
Background about this tool that “shows consumers their electricity consumption in a secure Google gadget.” As of summer 2009, Google is “testing the product with utility partners in the US, India and Canada” and has plans for expansion. Find videos, links to articles and reports, policy statements and testimony, a FAQ, listing of partners, and energy saving tips. From Google.
URL: http://www.google.org/powermeter/
Hilltown Families said,
June 10, 2009 at 7:10 am
Legislature Looks at Small Plots
The Massachusetts Legislature’s Joint Committee of Natural Resources, Environment, and Agriculture is currently considering House Bill 715, An Act Relative to Small Plot Farming. This bill would extend to farming operations on small parcels the same rights and protections granted to farmers on larger acreage. It’s particularly good for people farming small plots in residential neighborhoods, but could also benefit larger farms who farm some smaller parcels.
Source: CISA
Greg Seaman said,
June 9, 2009 at 10:22 am
Hello, and welcome to Eartheasy’s June newsletter.
Grass Cycling – “cut it high and let it lie”
Grass cycling simply means leaving clippings on the lawn after mowing. It’s an easy way to reduce yard waste, return nitrogen, phosphorus and water to the lawn, and reduce thatch buildup. For effective grass cycling, allow your lawn to grow to a height of 3″, then set the mower height to a 2″ cut.
For more information about natural lawn care, visit our page:
http://eartheasy.com/grow_lawn_care.htm
The average size lawn produces as much as four tons of grass clippings each summer.
Top 10 indoor plants with best air filtering qualities
Common indoor plants may provide a valuable weapon in the fight against rising levels of indoor air pollution. NASA scientists have identifed, and ranked according to effectiveness, the top plants which can help filter the indoor air in your home.
http://www.eartheasy.com/blog/2009/05/the-top-10-plants-for-removing-indoor-toxins/
Natural wasp control
Before reaching for the pesticide, try these safe, nontoxic strategies for dealing with wasps this summer.
http://eartheasy.com/live_natwasp_control.htm
Organic seed basics
Gardeners looking for seeds grown from organic sources can be mystified by the terms and choices in today’s seed catalogs. Here is some basic information to help you make an informed choice when choosing seed for your vegetable garden.
http://www.eartheasy.com/blog/2009/05/organic-seeds-basics/
Where to find organic seeds
There is growing interest among gardeners for untreated, open-pollinated, and heirloom varieties of organic seeds. Here is a guide to the suppliers of specialty and organic seeds, with a focus on seeds for vegetable gardening.
http://eartheasy.com/grow_organic_seeds.html
Diatomaceous Earth – the cure for what bugs you
Well the jury is in. We have been dealing with ants, sowbugs and a variety of insect pests for many years, and finally found a safe, nontoxic product that has virtually eliminated the bugs from our home.
http://eartheasy.com/store/proddetail.php?prod=50020-7
Using markets to make fisheries more sustainable
The over-exploitation of fisheries resources worldwide has resulted in serious depletion of stocks. Individual transferrable quotas (ITQs) may be the answer to sensible fisheries management.
http://www.eartheasy.com/blog/2009/05/using-markets-to-make-fisheries-sustainable/
Recycleatee – a new concept in re-using apparel
The folks at Recycleatee are pioneering an apparel recycling program that takes responsibility for the full life cycle of its products — and rewards customers in the process. Wear your clothing for as long as you like, then return it in any condition for a 25% store credit. Shipping is free both ways.
http://recycleatee.com/
Teens for Planet Earth
Teens for Planet Earth (T4PE) is a social networking site which helps teens carry out environmental service-learning projects. Members can connect with teammates and friends as well as many other T4PE members in their area and around the world. They can share photos and videos of their projects; start or comment on a blog, post upcoming events related to their projects; find resources to help them carry out a successful project; start a group to communicate with team members, keep track of tasks, and encourage reflection; offer and receive advice on conducting service-learning projects; and much more.
http://www.teensforplanetearth.org/
The hybrid car that runs on air
British researchers have found a way to adapt a normal combustion engine to run on compressed air – generated within the vehicle – to give an extra boost to power the motor and considerably reduce the cost of running a car.
http://www.eartheasy.com/blog/2009/05/the-hybrid-car-that-runs-on-air/
Oysters seen as key to cleaning up Chesapeake Bay
The natural filtering processes of oysters may have a broad application in restoring the once bountiful Chesapeake Bay.
http://www.cnn.com/2009/TECH/04/17/gsif.chesapeake.restoration/index.html
“It was once said that the oyster stock in the Chesapeake Bay could have filtered the entire volume of the bay, in a single day,” Shellfish farmer
Car-free German suburb makes residents happier
Can suburbanites get by without cars? This upscale community in Germany seems to be happier without cars.
http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/12/science/earth/12suburb.html?_r=1&partner=rss&emc=rss&pag ewanted=all
Shop Eartheasy: Looking for products to help you live more efficiently while saving money? Eartheasy’s online store features useful products to help you conserve energy, save water, garden organically, and reduce toxins in the home and yard. http://eartheasy.com/shop.htm
Bulk Orders? Many of our products are available at reduced rates for institutions, businesses and organizations. For volume pricing, email us at orders@eartheasy.com
Thanks for your interest in Eartheasy. Your feedback is always welcome.
Greg Seaman
Publisher
greg@eartheasy.com
http://eartheasy.com/
Hilltown Families said,
June 6, 2009 at 9:47 pm
Resource: Co-op Power http://www.cooppower.coop
Co-op Power is a regional network of local communities creating a multi-class, multi-racial movement for a sustainable and just energy future. We are a consumer-owned energy cooperative serving New England and New York. Co-op Power’s Local Organizing Councils include Co-op Power Metro East (greater Boston), Co-op Power Franklin County, Co-op Power Hampshire County, Co-op Power Hampden County, and Co-op Power of Southern VT.
Contact Information
Tollfree 877- 266-7543 or in W. Mass. 413-772-8898 Fax: 413-517-0300
Email: info@cooppower.coop
Address: 324 Wells Street, Greenfield, MA 01301
Mailing Address: PO Box 688, Greenfield, MA 01302
Hilltown Families said,
June 3, 2009 at 7:17 pm
Stop Monsanto’s Genetically Engineered Wheat
Monsanto and the biotech bullies are once again moving to tighten their grip on the world’s food supply. Genetically engineered (GE) varieties now account for 70-90% of all conventional (non-organic) corn, soybeans, cotton, and canola grown in the U.S. Joining the growing menu of unlabeled and untested gene-spliced Frankenfoods, genetically engineered sugar (derived from GE sugar beets) hit store shelves in 2008. Now it appears that the most controversial crop of them all, Monsanto’s GE wheat, is not far behind, at least if industry gets its way. Given that wheat is such a major global crop and essential ingredient in bread, breakfast cereals, pasta and other everyday foods, the force-feeding of unlabeled GE wheat on the public would represent a major conquest for Monsanto and the biotech industry.
Although Monsanto withdrew their applications to the U.S. and Canadian governments for approval of genetically engineered wheat in 2004 because of tremendous pressure from the OCA and hundreds of our allied public interest groups and farmers (as well as pressure from large food companies such as General Mills), it looks like we’re in for another round of battle.
Wheat industry groups in the United States, Canada and Australia announced on May 14, 2009, they would work toward the objective of “synchronized commercialization of biotech traits in the wheat crop.” For the sake of the Earth and public health, we must stop them: http://www.organicconsumers.org/wheat.cfm
=========
Homegrown Grains: The Key to Food Security — How to Grow and Make Your Own Wheat Flour:
http://www.organicconsumers.org/articles/article_18082.cfm
SW said,
May 1, 2009 at 5:13 am
Free Green
This website offers “free, energy efficient, healthy house plans.” Each of the plan packages comes with “full construction documents or blueprints, … a home energy model for the city and state combination in which their home building project will occur, a LEED checklist,” and related material. Includes plans for models such as a “Modern Cube,” “Suburban Loft,” and “Simple Villa.” Also includes a blog.
URL: http://www.freegreen.com/
—
New American Dream: Food: Cater to the Earth
Website for a “campaign focused on the environmental impact of food production and consumption.” Features material on fair trade and bottled water, a marketplace to help identify sustainable foods, and a blog. From New American Dream, “founded in 1997 to address the environmental and social impacts of unsustainable consumption.”
URL: http://www.newdream.org/food/
—
Project Laundry List
Website for a nonprofit organization with a mission to make “air-drying laundry acceptable and desirable as a simple and effective way to save energy.” Features laundry tips (on energy savings for washing and drying), blog, clothesline art, and material on advocacy efforts to make clotheslines legal in light of community covenants, landlord prohibitions, and zoning laws.
URL: http://www.laundrylist.org/
—
Sierra Club Green Home
This site “is dedicated to helping you create a more sustainable home environment.” Main topics include reducing energy consumption (and a home carbon dioxide calculator), solar energy, and home health hazards (such as radon, pesticides, and mold). The “Learn More” section includes content organized by subjects such as bath, cleaning, flooring, landscaping, and plumbing. Also includes a video library. From the Sierra Club.
URL: http://www.sierraclubgreenhome.com/
—
The Story of Stuff With Annie Leonard
“From its extraction through sale, use and disposal, all the stuff in our lives affects communities at home and abroad, yet most of this is hidden from view. ‘The Story of Stuff’ is a 20-minute, fast-paced, fact-filled [video] look at the underside of our production and consumption patterns.” Includes full movie, fact sheet, annotated script, reading list, and foreign-language subtitled versions. Sponsored by the Tides Foundation and Funders Workgroup for Sustainable Production and Consumption.
URL: http://storyofstuff.com/
SB said,
December 8, 2008 at 1:14 pm
Does anybody know of a place/event for disposing of unwanted medications. I understand why I shouldn’t just throw them in the trash or flush them, but I can’t find anything to do with them. I called a couple of pharmacies and they told me to just throw them in the trash.
Sienna Wildfield said,
September 24, 2008 at 5:59 am
Check out Hilltown Families Listserv member Angie Gregory’s new service:
Mother Herb eco-friendly cloth diaper service, serving Western Mass. http://motherherb.blogspot.com
Dominique Burgunder-Johnson said,
September 20, 2008 at 7:48 am
Stop the Senate from Putting More Wildlife Habitat and Natural Resources on the Chopping Block
Drilling for oil and natural gas, and mining for coal has already taken a dramatic toll on our country’s public lands, wildlife habitat and natural resources.
Please urge Congress to extend the moratorium on commercial oil shale development: https://online.nwf.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=621
Oil shale production is 130% more carbon dioxide intensive than conventional drilling and gasoline production, which means it would continue to fuel global warming—the already single greatest threat to wildlife.
HERE’S WHAT ELSE IS AT STAKE:
*OUR WATER: Oil shale production will require upwards of 315 million gallons of water a day. This is scarce water we already need for drinking, agriculture, livestock and wildlife.
*OUR WILDLIFE: Oil shale development would put at risk millions of acres of wildlife habitat, and continue to raise the harmful impacts of global warming pollution for wildlife and their habitats.
* OUR WAY OF LIFE: Preserving America’s public lands are an important part of our country’s conservation tradition. Oil shale development threatens to dramatically change the face of some of our most treasured places.
Congress is moving in the wrong direction to break America’s oil addiction.
Please ask your Members of Congress to be the difference that moves America’s energy policies in a bold new direction:
https://online.nwf.org/site/Advocacy?cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=621
Thanks so much for speaking up!
Sincerely,
Dominique Burgunder-Johnson
Online Grassroots Coordinator
National Wildlife Federation
alerts@nwf.org
Inspiring Americans to protect wildlife for our children’s future.
Greg Seaman said,
September 17, 2008 at 5:28 am
From Eartheasy Newsletter:
Autumn composting tips
The problem with backyard composting is finding a year-round supply of carbon-rich material. Autumn is the time of year to stock up. Here are some tips to help make the most of autumn’s composting bounty.
http://eartheasy.com/article_autumn_composting_tips.html
Fall care of fruit trees
Fall is the time to look after the health of fruit trees. A few simple practices will help your trees through the winter dormant period and ensure vitality for spring flowering and fruiting.
http://www.eartheasy.com/article_fruit_trees_fall_care.htm
World Water Monitoring Day
World Water Monitoring Day boosts awareness of water quality issues by getting community groups out to local waterbodies between September 18 and October 18 each year to test the water quality in their area. Groups use a simple monitoring kit made special for WWMD and then report their results online into a global database. The goal is to build public awareness and involvement to protect the world’s water resources! To learn how you can get involved in this global effort, visit:
http://www.worldwatermonitoringday.com/
Eat strategically to save the planet
By eating strategically we can reclaim our streams, our food, and our future. Here are top five organic food choices a pregnant woman can make for the sake of her baby and the health of the planet:
http://eartheasy.com/article_eat_strategically.html
Love food, hate waste
Even those who don’t care about the ethics of food wasting are thinking thrifty, thanks to skyrocketing food prices. LoveFoodHateWaste pitches in with recipes that help you make use of food that might otherwise go bad. Need to use up some parsnips? Got some cottage cheese you’ll never finish? Tell LFHW what you’ve got on hand, and the site suggests recipes that’ll help you clean out your fridge and save money at the same time.
http://www.lovefoodhatewaste.com/
Growing your own food
From Atlanta to Minneapolis to Seattle, people are reacting to the stagnant economy and the high cost of produce by planting their own fruits and vegetables.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/08/02/AR2008080200412.html?hpid= topnews
Want to learn how to create your own backyard food garden? Click here:
http://eartheasy.com/grow_backyard_vegetable_garden.html
My Farm
With My Farm, based in San Francisco and the East Bay (and similar operations found in cities including New York and Portland, Ore.), you can grow food in your own backyard with the assistance of urban farmers. In one day, a farmer can create a small backyard farm — then return once a week to harvest the produce, which he splits with you.
This may cost around $100 a month, and allows people to replace water-dependent lawns with an edible landscape.
http://myfarmsf.com/
Living simpler is simply cheaper
Keri Rainsberger isn’t rich. She works in the nonprofit world for a relatively low-profit salary. Yet, as many Americans are scrimping for every penny, she hardly feels the pinch.
http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/08/05/simple.living.ap/index.html
Gassing up with garbage
After years of false starts, a new industry selling motor fuel made from waste is getting a big push in the United States, with the first commercial sales possible within months.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/24/business/24fuel.html?_r=1&hp=&adxnnl=1&oref= slogin&adxnnlx=1216872705-UU4C+NzGX5fFbNmZzBZ/eQ
The next little thing?
Tiny houses have been a fringe curiosity for a decade or more, but devotees believe the concept’s time has arrived.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/11/garden/11tiny.html?_r=1&oref=slogin
Health concerns over some types of granite countertops
Radiation and radon emanating from some granite countertops has raised questions about possible health concerns. While most types of granite are considered safe because the radiation levels are extremely low, there have been reports of “hot” or potentially hazardous countertops, particularly among the more exotic and striated varieties from Brazil and Namibia.
http://theater2.nytimes.com/2008/07/24/garden/24granite.html
How to find a job in the green energy field
Careers in Renewable Energy, by Gregory McNamee, guides job seekers to the thousands of employers in this growing field. Useful for adults ready to retool their careers as well as students looking for green-collar opportunities, the book lists 50 schools that are leaders in renewable energy education, along with other resources.
http://www.pixyjackpress.com/careersinrenewableenergy.html
Quest Atlantis Project
Quest Atlantis is a NASA and National Science Foundation-funded learning and teaching project that uses a 3D multi-user environment to immerse children from all over the world in meaningful learning experiences. In terms of academic content, students solve educational challenges called Quests. Whether in a classroom or after-school setting, completing Quests requires that the children participate in real-world, socially and academically meaningful activities, such as researching other cultures and conducting environmental studies.
To learn more, visit: http://www.questatlantis.org/
The Quest Atlantis Project has chosen Eartheasy as an academic resource for their program!
Our amazing planet – underwater astonishments
A reward for those of you who have scrolled this far, this video by David Gallo shows new jaw-dropping footage of undersea creatures and their adaptive behaviors. This video offers a fresh look at the wondrous life forms on our planet, and a reminder of what we need to protect.
http://www.ted.com/index.php/talks/david_gallo_shows_underwater_astonishments.html
RideBuzz Ridesharing said,
July 1, 2008 at 7:51 pm
Cut your gas bill and emissions in half by sharing rides. Please post requests at http://www.RideBuzz.org
RideBuzz is a Community-Driven Ridesharing Collaborative that helps communities cut their gas bills and greenhouse gas emissions in half by providing a free-online service where people can connect to share and find rides. By sharing rides, community members can respond to rising fuel prices and rising tides (climate change). It’s a simple concept – you can double the efficiency of any car by sharing a ride and leaving the other cars at home. Americans spend roughly 25% (and rising) of their household income on transportation, which is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions (passenger transportation accounts for 1/5 of all greenhouse gas emissions). RideBuzz is committed to elevating ridesharing as common transportation practice through education and advocacy. This is an initiative that helps under-served populations connect with the 1.4 million empty car seats traveling around the Pioneer Valley.
Volunteers are welcome! This is a grassroots effort! Feel free to spread the word and help us adapt to these challenging times.
Thank you,
Jeff Brown
RideBuzz Organizer
Sienna Wildfield said,
June 27, 2008 at 9:19 pm
Giving our kids unstructured outdoor play time makes them happier, healthier… even smarter. Check out http://www.greenhour.org.
Sienna Wildfield said,
June 14, 2008 at 7:18 am
By Tami Abdollah
Los Angeles Times Staff Writer
[June 13, 2008] – Vinyl shower curtains sold at major retailers across the country emit toxic chemicals that have been linked to serious health problems, according to a report released Thursday by a national environmental organization.
The curtains contained high concentrations of chemicals that are linked to liver damage as well as damage to the central nervous, respiratory and reproductive systems, said researchers for the Virginia-based Center for Health, Environment & Justice.
The organization commissioned the study about two years ago to determine what caused that “new shower curtain smell” familiar to many consumers.
“This smell can make you feel sick, give you a headache, make you feel nauseous or [cause] other health effects,” said Michael Schade, a coauthor of the report.
Researchers tested the chemical composition of five unopened polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, plastic shower curtains bought from Bed Bath & Beyond, Kmart, Sears, Target and Wal-Mart. One of the curtains was then tested to determine the chemicals it released into the air.
The study found that PVC shower curtains contained high concentrations of phthalates, which have been linked to reproductive effects, and varying concentrations of organotins, which are compounds based on tin and hydrocarbons. One of the curtains tested released measurable quantities of as many as 108 volatile organic compounds into the air, some of which persisted for nearly a month.
Seven of these chemicals — toluene, ethylbenzene, phenol, methyl isobutyl ketone, xylene, acetophenone and cumene — have been identified by the Environmental Protection Agency as hazardous air pollutants, said Stephen Lester, the center’s science director and a coauthor of the report.
Potential health effects include developmental damage and harm to the liver and the central nervous, respiratory and reproductive systems, according to the report.
Phthalates and organotins, which are not chemically bonded to the shower curtain, are often added to soften or otherwise enhance the curtain. These additives evaporate or cling to household dust more easily than the chemicals in the curtains themselves, Lester said. Volatile organic compounds also evaporate more easily than the less harmful chemicals, he said.
Vinyl chloride, which is a major building block of PVC, is a known human carcinogen that causes liver cancer, Lester said.
“PVC is just bad from cradle to cradle,” said Martha Dina Argüello, executive director of the Los Angeles chapter of Physicians for Social Responsibility. “It’s a mess when you create, it’s a mess when you get rid of it, and it’s off-gassing when you’re using it.”
Representatives of Target and Sears Holding Co., the parent company of Kmart, said their companies were phasing out curtains that contain PVC. Target said about 90% of the store’s “owned brand” shower curtains offered this spring were made of materials other than PVC. Officials from the other companies were not immediately available for comment Thursday.
The report said that Bed Bath & Beyond had increased the number of PVC-free shower curtains it offered by selling those made of ethylene vinyl acetate and fabrics, but that Wal-Mart did not respond to the organization’s faxes or letters requesting the retailer’s PVC policy.
The American Chemistry Council issued a statement Thursday saying there was “no reliable evidence” that phthalates were harmful or linked to serious health problems, or that they were tied to the new shower curtain smell.
Argüello said studies were still being done on the effects of phthalates and other chemicals on people.
Little information on toxicity is available for 86 of the 108 chemicals detected in the curtains, Lester said.
The EPA has tested vinyl shower curtains and in 2002 said it had found that many of the same chemicals listed in the center’s report.
Lester said the test drew attention to the lack of government regulations or health-based guidelines governing indoor air pollutants.
“The EPA does not regulate indoor air, period,” said Barbara Spark, the indoor air program coordinator for the EPA’s Pacific Southwest region. “We have not been given that authority by the Congress.”
The Center for Health, Environment & Justice sent a letter to 19 major retailers Thursday informing them of the new report and encouraging them to stop selling PVC products.
“Most companies aren’t aware of some of the risks these products entail,” Lester said. “Once they’re informed of this, they’re in many cases ready to make changes and purchase alternative products.”
Eartheasy said,
May 18, 2008 at 3:36 pm
Build a backyard food factory!
Our little backyard vegetable garden puts out so much fresh produce that we call it our “backyard food factory”. Having a backyard vegetable garden will save you money, provide a ready source of healthier produce, and make you popular with the neighbors come harvest time. And it takes the notion of ‘buy local’ to another level. We’ve been gardening for over 30 years and learned, often the hard way, many useful tips and techniques. This guide offers you the benefit of our experience, and is a simple, concise primer on how you can make your own backyard vegetable garden.
http://eartheasy.com/grow_backyard_vegetable_garden.html
Go for an edible estate – the case against lawns
At first thought, putting a vegetable garden on our front lawn seems like a radical idea. But this article makes a convincing case for converting lawns into productive ‘edible landscapes’.
http://eartheasy.com/article_edible_estate.html
Non-toxic dandelion control
Dandelion growth is encouraged by low calcium levels in the soil, compacted soil and low organic matter. Here are some natural solutions to try before reaching for the weed killer:
- Cut the lawn when the dandelion flowers are in bloom (or before). Don’t wait until the yellow flowers dry and go to seed.
- Keep grass height 2.5″ to 3″. Most people cut their grass too short. The longer grass will mulch the soil, keeping it moist and healthy, and make it harder for weeds to sprout.
- Add lime at 50-100 lbs per 1,000 square feet. .
- Fertilize with a soil nutrient building organic fertilizer. Any chemical fertilizer will deplete needed organic matter and cause further damage.
- For smaller yards, there’s the hands on approach, using a dandelion fork. This small hand tool has a forked end and a curved middle – just insert the fork and pivot upwards. It’s very easy and effective. Most garden centers now carry this tool.
Coir substitute for peat – save our natural peat bogs
You may notice a new product in your garden center – coir. Made from coconut fibre, coir is an excellent substitute for peat moss, which is cut from natural peat bogs. Coir comes in blocks (‘bricks’) which are easier to carry than the heavier peat bags. You soak the brick of coir in a tote filled with water; this expands the volume greatly before use. Coir also has these advantages over peat:
- coir is ph neutral (peat is acidic)
- absorbs water more readily than peat
- excellent areration and drainage
- retains more water longer than peat
- helps preserve natural peat bogs
Low-cost electric cars are on their way
Norwegian automaker Think Global plans to sell low-priced electric cars to the masses and will introduce its first models in the U.S. by the end of 2009. The battery-powered Think City will be able to travel up to 110 miles on a single charge, with a top speed of about 65 mph, and priced below $25,000.
http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-think22apr22,1,3936686.story
Carcinogens in ‘organic’ personal care products – what to look for
A new study commissioned by the Organic Consumers Association found that many leading “natural” and “organic” brand shampoos, body washes, and lotions contain the carcinogenic contaminant 1,4-Dioxane, which is considered a chemical “known to the State of California to cause cancer.” – To avoid 1,4-dioxane, OCA recommends reading ingredient labels and avoiding products with indications of ethoxylation, which include: “myreth,” “oleth,” “laureth,” “ceteareth,” any other “eth,” “PEG,” “polyethylene,” “polyethylene glycol,” “polyoxyethylene,” or “oxynol,” in ingredient names.
Swaptree
Do we really need 20 million copies of each of the Harry Potter books? Can’t we just trade and share a few hundred thousand? Swaptree is a website where you can trade books, DVDs, CDs, and video games you have, for the ones you want, for free.
http://www.swaptree.com/
Reuse-a-Shoe
Now in it’s fifth year, the Reuse-A-Shoe Partnership has expanded to 37 communities in 22 states. This innovative partnership has collected nearly a quarter million shoes with collection sites located within 15 miles of 32 percent of the continental U.S. population.
http://www.nrc-recycle.org/reuseashoe.aspx
Water-powered cellphones by 2010?
Samsung has developed a new kind of cell phone battery that’s powered by water and is aiming to bring it to market by 2010. When the handset is switched on, reaction between metal and water in the phone produce hydrogen gas. This is then channeled to the fuel cell, where it reacts with oxygen in the air to generate power.
http://crave.cnet.com/8301-1_105-9922433-1.html?part=rss&tag=feed&subj=Crave
Eco Elvis – shake, rattle and recycle
With a mission to educate people and get them to take action for the environment, Kansas City’s Eco Elvis sings recycled versions of the King’s songs, like Burnin’ Globe (Burning Love), Can’t Help Recycling It All (Can’t Help Falling In Love), Compost Hotel (Heartbreak Hotel). Really.
http://www.ecoelvis.com/
Europe’s new particle accelerator generates excitement and fear
The most complex piece of scientific equipment ever built, the collider will send particles crashing into each other at nearly the speed of light, generating energies more powerful than the sun. Critics think the collider could also spawn a black hole that will swallow Earth, and gobble up distant stars like a child popping Skittles.
http://www.latimes.com/news/science/la-sci-collider13apr13,0,7765588.story
Green funerals: How to make an eco-exit
Cardboard coffins, clothes sewn from natural fibers, a burial plot in a natural setting. Green funerals attempt to be eco-friendly at every stage. Britain has been a world leader in eco-friendly funerals for years and a source of green burial products and ideas for countries like the United States, where the trend is just starting to catch on.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/04/22/green-funerals-how-to-mak_n_97940.html
Sienna Wildfield said,
March 12, 2008 at 2:07 pm
For a list of enviro-friendly website for kids go to:
http://eartheasy.com/article_enviro_sites_kids.htm
Bosco said,
February 5, 2008 at 1:18 pm
Hey families wanted to learn more about birds and a respect for nature … check this out:
Hands-On Science Helps Homeschoolers (and Scientists) Learn More About Birds
Homeschool students across North America can learn about science and have fun while they count birds and record information that scientists need to understand the movements and abundance of feeder birds. Project FeederWatch, a citizen-science project from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Bird Studies Canada, is a perfect fit for the homeschool curriculum. The Homeschooler’s Guide to Project FeederWatch is now available online at http://www.feederwatch.org. This guide highlights specific ways Project FeederWatch can foster inquiry-based learning in math, science, art, and other disciplines.
Project FeederWatch focuses on something children are naturally interested in: birds. “Birds move, they come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes, and they are easy to watch,” says project leader David Bonter.
For 20 years FeederWatch participants from all across North America have tallied the number and kinds of birds that visit their feeders between November and April. Scientists use the data to track where the birds are across the continent and how their numbers change through time. Some of the most dramatic changes revealed by data collected over the last two decades may be related to changes in climate.
“We’re seeing hummingbirds much farther north than usual during the winter,” says Bonter. “Warblers, wrens, woodpeckers, and other insect-eaters are also lingering longer into the northern winter, possibly because of warmer temperatures. Bird-count data gathered in the coming years will really help us focus on these trends and what might be causing them.”
The curriculum is available to download for free at the Project FeederWatch web site. An annual participation fee of $15 ($12 for Lab of Ornithology members, $35 Canadian) covers the cost of the Project FeederWatch research kit, with useful materials for a homeschooling program, including instructions and a calendar that features bird photos taken by project participants. The fee also helps support web site development, participant support and education, and data analysis.
First-time participants receive a colorful poster to help them identify birds, and the FeederWatch Handbook, filled with information about bird feeding and the value of FeederWatch data. Participants also receive Winter Bird Highlights, featuring results from the project, and a subscription to the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s newsletter, BirdScope. Canadian participants receive BirdWatch Canada from Bird Studies Canada.
U.S. residents can sign up by calling (800) 843-2473 or by visiting http://www.feederwatch.org. Canadian residents should call (888) 448-2473, or visit http://www.bsc-eoc.org/national/pfw.html.
Dana of Hadley said,
January 29, 2008 at 12:06 pm
We’ve been recycling our regular batteries at Whole Foods in Hadley. We unfortunatley go through a gazillion AA batteries. It’s great to be able to recycle them there. Just look for the bucket up by the customer serivce counter and drop them in.
Love this site! Thnx for the eco page to post and look for other ideas.
CISA said,
January 8, 2008 at 9:01 pm
An increasing number of Valley residents are making a dedicated effort to buy locally, so why not make it your New Year’s Resolution? Of course, the trouble with resolutions is never with making them–it is with keeping them. So here are a few tips for sustaining your local buying goals:
Make clear and measurable goals. For example: I will buy $10 worth of local produce per week. Or, I will buy all dairy products from local sources. Be sure that your goals are feasible for your situation in the long term.
Don’t drive yourself to frustration keeping your word. The point of eating locally isn’t to fuss over the details, it is to enjoy and celebrate the local abundance.
Use CISA’s Farm Products Guide to find sources of ingredients. The Farm Products Guide (online at http://www.buylocalfood.com) lists all Local Hero farms and is searchable by product. Don’t hesitate to ask for help if you get overwhelmed. CISA is here to help.
CoachKevin said,
December 1, 2007 at 8:49 am
My wife & I are looking into “green funerals” for when our parents pass on (and for us too). There’s an article titled “Green Funerals: Putting aside embalming and tombs” at http://pressherald.mainetoday.com/story.php?id=143467&ac=PHnws for your eco-aware readers who are ready to explore this topic.
Bosco said,
November 30, 2007 at 3:42 pm
If you get too many catalogs, there’s a new on-line service (http://www.catalogchoice.org) which allows people to compile a list of catalogs they do not want to receive.
Kara K said,
November 25, 2007 at 7:06 pm
Hey all!
This may be old news, but one way we make our holiday “greener” is that after we take down our tree, (which we cut down off our property, somewhere the trees need to be thinned-or sometimes we just cut the top off so the bottom keeps growing) we take it outside in the front yard and prop it up in the snow. We then decorate it with all the old, stale, bread, popcorn, and cranberries left over from various celebrations with family and friends.
First, we make the traditional swag of popcorn and cranberries by threading them on a string, alternating berry and kernel. Then we take the old bread and cut out shapes with cookie cutters and hang them like ornaments on the tree… thus making a holiday tree for the birds/wildlife to feed on during the cold winter months that follow…(you can also add the traditional pinecone/PB/birdseed hangy thing too)
When the goodies are all eaten up and the tree has dried, we then cut it up and use it as firewood. Everything from kindling to logs, we use it to warm up a frosty night (usually in feburary when the weather can be so miserable…). It is very nice to curl up to a toasty fire in the fireplace with the family (where we cook some hot dogs and maybe even roast some marshmallows-a nice surprise in the middle of winter!). On top of all that, we get to turn down the heat (for one night at least!) to conserve on our oil consumption and our electricity too-by cooking over the fire as well.
Peace and love to all…
Kara and family