350.org International Climate Action Day in Western Massachusetts
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"If we wish to create a lasting peace we must begin with the children." - Mahatma Gandhi
Welcome to Hilltown Families, a grassroots communication network for families with grade school children living in Western Mass, established in 2005 by hilltown mother and long time activist Sienna Wildfield.
HF welcomes writings that reflect the positive work and educational efforts activists, families, teachers, and artists work towards and accomplish and how that affects, supports and empowers our families.
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Hilltown Families said,
November 10, 2009 at 6:23 am
TAKE ACTION
On November 16-18 world leaders will meet in Rome for the World Summit on Food Security.
Please add your voice to this urgent appeal for a new course of action. With over a billion people in the world now hungry, clearly what governments and corporations have been doing to bring people out of poverty hasn’t been working.
The documents presented here provide proposals for policies and actions to eradicate hunger and malnutrition. They are based on the experiences and political work of social movements, non governmental organisations (NGOs) and others from all over the world during past decades and currently. It is based largely on the food sovereignty framework that embraces the human right to adequate food.
Learn more and sign the international petition here: http://www.foodfirst.org/en/node/2632
Send a letter to President Obama here: http://www.foodfirst.org/en/node/2631
Hilltown Families said,
November 6, 2009 at 6:52 pm
Local Food Drives
http://www.foodbankwma.org/fooddrive.htm
October 23 – November 8
BJ’s Wholesale Club
Stores in Chicopee & Greenfield
November 1 – 30
Northampton Cooperative Bank
Branches in Northampton, Florence & Amherst
November 10
UMass Fine Arts Center “Arts Give Back” Performance
Cirque Mechanics in a Birdhouse Factory
UMass Concert Hall, Amherst
November 21
Springfield Symphony Orchestra Concert
Barber/Tchaikovsky
Symphony Hall, Springfield
November 22
Hampshire Choral Society Holiday Concert
J.S. Bach’s Magnificat
Abbey Chapel, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley
November 22
Holyoke Mall Magical Night of Giving
Holyoke
November 24
WHAI & Bear Country
Greenfield
November 28 and December 5, 12 & 19
Showcase Cinemas West Springfield Holiday Classics
How the Grinch Stole Christmas, White Christmas, Home Alone, It’s a Wonderful Life
West Springfield
Hilltown Families said,
November 6, 2009 at 6:42 pm
Monday, November 16th in Shelburne Falls, MA
The committee which coordinated such a well received RiverFest last June is starting to plan for RiverFest June 12 2010. We will be meeting at the Shelburne Falls Information Center on Bridge Street at 6:00 p.m. on Monday, November 16. This is an excellent time for people with ideas for this coming RiverFest to make their wishes known. It is also a good place for people new to our community to get involved with a group of active people. . RiverFest is an entertaining, educational celebration of the Deerfeidl River and all that it means to us. The theme this year is “The Power of Water”. For more information contact coordinator, Polly Bartlett at 413.625.6628
Hilltown Families said,
November 5, 2009 at 10:20 am
NOFA’s Calendar of Events 2009-2010
November 10, 2009: Website Tools for e-Commerce and Agritourism: Hands-on workshop for farms in direct sales and agritourism, Randolph, VT. Learn how to use online tools for your farm website. Find out how Google Analytics can help you get to know your visitors and what they are looking for. Increase the number of visitors to your site using Search Engine Optimization (SEO) techniques. Contact gail.makuch@uvm.edu or call 802-257-7967 ext. 10.
November 13-14: It Takes A Region: A Working Conference To Build Our Northeast Food System, Albany, NY. This year, NESAWG’s annual conference takes on some hard issues. As a region, we need to grow our thinking and our work to develop a truly sustainable and resilient food system. We will get beyond the jargon, myths and fuzzy concepts to come away with a shared vision, coherent strategy and concrete plans. We’ll draw upon the exciting efforts already underway in our region and nationally, including alternative supply chain networks, research projects, infrastructure initiatives and policy advocacy. We’ll address scale, size, and geography to reach beyond political boundaries and sector “silos.” For more information, contact Kathy Ruhf, NESAWG coordinator, at nesawg@nesawg.org.
November 17-18: NYSERDA’s 9th Annual Innovations in Agriculture Conference, Hilton Garden Inn Troy, NY. Greater attention to green power production and rising prices in energy, fertilizer, and feed present challenges to New York State’s economic prosperity. The Innovations in Agriculture conference is designed to assist New York farms in integrating energy-efficient and sustainable production methods to profit from new opportunities arising from these challenges. This year’s conference will greatly expand the scope of energy as it relates to agriculture compared to previous years. Topics include: how future farms will adapt to climate change; agriculture’s role in the development of renewable fuels for heating & transportation; the spectrum of controlled environment agriculture: current research and best practices; energy efficiency opportunities for farms; the current status of the Anaerobic Digester program; and federal and state funding opportunities. For more information, please visit: http://www.nyserda.org/InnovationsInAgriculture/default.asp.
On Saturday, December 12, the Deerfield Agricultural Commission will host the 6th gathering for Western Mass Agricultural Commission members, farmers, and interested friends of agriculture at Deerfield Town Hall, 8 Conway Street, South Deerfield. On Saturday, January 9, 2010, Hancock Shaker Village will host the 7th gathering for Western Mass Agricultural Commission members, farmers and interested friends of agriculture. The morning part of each gathering will feature a roundtable for all Ag Commissions and others to explore current projects and share successes and challenges. It will be followed by a high-powered panel on Current Legal and Policy Issues for Agriculture (For farmers and Ag Commission members) shared by MDAR Assistant Commissioner Nathan L’Etoile, General Counsel Bob Ritchie, Cris Coffin of American Farmland Trust, and State Representatives Denis Guyer and Steve Kulik. The afternoon, also for farmers and Ag Commission members, will feature a panel and exhibits focusing on sources of funding for farmers – grants, loans, incentives, energy programs, and others. The agenda is available at http://www.buylocalfood.org/upload/resource/agcomagenda.pdf and a registration form is at http://www.buylocalfood.org/upload/resource/agcomregistration.pdf.
December 13-16: Fourth National Conference on Grazing Lands, Reno/Sparks, Nevada. This conference will provide you with a forum for discussion and exchange of grazing land information, technology, scientific and applied research, and to see new products and services. The National GLCI and its Program Committee wants to have the best of the best
farmer/rancher speakers at this year’s 4th National Conference on Grazing Lands (4NCGL). General information about the conference and online registration (NEW!) is available at
http://www.glci.org/4NCGLindex.htm.
The 9th annual NOFA Course in Organic Land Care will be held January 13, 14, 15, 19 and 20, 2010 at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, 6 Plum Island Turnpike, Newburyport, MA. This 5-day intensive course trains and accredits professionals to practice organic land care (caring for land without the use of synthetic pesticides or soil amendments). It is recommended for landscapers, designers, municipal and parks employees, horticulturists, master gardeners and entrepreneurs. Visit http://www.organiclandcare.net for more information or call Kathy Litchfield at (413) 773-3830 or email: kathy@nofamass.org.
January 22 & 23, 2010: 14th Annual VT Grazing & Livestock Conference, Lake Morey Resort, Fairlee, VT. Keynote speaker Brian Moyer of Rural Vermont. Preconference workshops on business planning, winter animal management and weed control with Kathy Voth. Over 30 workshops on sustainable livestock production, with topics such as pasture-based research, grazing season extension, soil fertility & productivity, local beef marketing, high quality hay production, transitioning dairy farms to rotational grazing, small ruminant parasite management, swine, poultry and more. For more information, visit http://www.uvm.edu/pasture
January 22-24, 2010: Circles of Caring: NOFA-NY’s 28th Annual Organic Farming and Gardening Conference, Saratoga Springs, NY. Join us for more than 80 workshops, 3 keynote speakers, organic trade show, entertainment, and local organic meals. Information about Registration, Sponsorships, and Trade Show is available online at http://www.nofany.org. For more information contact Greg Swartz (570) 224-8515 conference@nofany.org.
January 29-30, 2010. Second Annual Winter Green-up Grass-fed Conference, Century House, Latham, NY (Albany Co.). This year’s conference will be expanded in response to last year’s attendee feedback, and there will be more time to interact with the speakers, the vendors, and each other. All the food served will be locally grown and raised this year. Speakers will include Dr. Allen Williams, Terry Gompert, Troy Bishopp, Mark DeBoo, and Ken Jaffe. Sponsored by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Albany County. For more information, visit http://www.diamonddangus.com.
Spring and Fall, 2010: Empowering Beginning Women Farmers through Whole Farm Planning. Holistic Management International has been funded through the USDA’s Beginning Farmer Grant to teach beginning women farmers the tools of whole farm planning. Groups are forming in New Hampshire, Vermont, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, and New York. Classes will begin in December 2009. Participants must attend the 6 sessions that will take place over the winter of 2010 and 4 farm tours that will take place during the spring and fall of 2010. Each session will be on a Saturday and last 7 hours. There will be farm mentors also available. If you are a woman farmer who has been farming less than 10 years, or if you would like to participate as a farmer mentor, contact Kelly Coleman, Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA) & Massachusetts WAgN, 413-665-7100; kelly@buylocalfood.org.
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 29, 2009 at 4:20 am
The newly formed Perennial Food Growing Group will be meeting at 6:30
p.m. at Warner Farm in Cummington on the following dates:
November 10
November 24
December 8
December 29 January 12
Our goal for now is to learn more about permaculture, by teaching each other and reading selected books on the subject. For the next month or two the text we are working out of is “Gaia’s Garden” by Toby Hemenway. Please join us. We intend to read part one (70 pages) by the November 10th meeting and Part Two by the November 24th meeting. Our immediate focus is apple guilds (the community/ecosystem of flora, fauna, fungi and conditions that comprise a healthy environment for apple trees/orchard). So really, please join us…Let’s build some momentum for perennial food gardening in the hilltowns!
Peggy O’Neal
Hilltown Families said,
October 28, 2009 at 10:43 am
The 9th annual NOFA Course in Organic Land Care will be held January 13, 14, 15, 19 and 20, 2010 at the Parker River National Wildlife Refuge, 6 Plum Island Tpke., Newburyport, MA. This 5-day intensive course trains and accredits professionals to practice organic land care (caring for land without the use of synthetic pesticides or soil amendments). It is recommended for landscapers, designers, municipal and parks employees, horticulturists, master gardeners and entrepreneurs. Visit http://www.organiclandcare.net for more information or call Kathy Litchfield at (413) 773-3830 or email: kathy@nofamass.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 26, 2009 at 10:58 am
Saturday, January 16th in Worcester, MA
NORTHEAST ORGANIC FARMING ASSOCIATION, MASSACHUSETTS CHAPTER 23RD ANNUAL WINTER CONFERENCE
“Food From Farms For Families”
January 16, 2010
Worcester Technical High School, Worcester, Ma
Joel Salatin to present keynote speech and all day seminar “Introducing Livestock to your Farm”
Over 40 workshops on organic farming, gardening, landscaping, and sustainable living. Lively exhibit area, NOFA/Mass Annual Meeting, great children and teens program, potluck lunch!
General registration fee $50 with discounts available. Registration for Salatin seminar $115 (includes entrance to entire conference). For more information visit http://www.nofamass.org/conferences/winter/index.php or contact Conference Coordinator,
Jassy Bratko, jassy.bratko@nofamass.org or 978-928-5646
Hilltown Families said,
October 22, 2009 at 4:24 am
West County Resilience Conversation – Next Meeting
November 3, 2009 from 7:00 – 9:00 PM
at Shelburne Senior Center, 5 Main Street, Shelburne Falls, MA
We will be discussing and planning our group’s future directions. Come and co-create!
Among the topics we’ll discuss:
· Reskilling: What skills would you like to learn or re-learn that will help make you and our community more resilient? What resilience-enhancing skills would you like to share? (Hopefully we’ll be setting up a presentation schedule of Reskilling events.)
· West County Time Bank. Time Banking strengthens communities through reciprocity. For every hour you spend doing something for someone in your community, you earn one Time Dollar. Then you can spend your Time Dollar on having someone do something for you. It’s that simple, yet, it also has profound effects. Time Banks change neighborhoods and whole communities. Time Banking honors every person’s unique gifts, talents and resources regardless of age, employment, ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation. Time Banking is labor with love – it builds community. Liz Sheehan is looking for a small group of folks to help her create a time bank for our area.
· Outreach and Education: How do we get the word out about global climate change and and engage the broader community?
· Ideas for a Resiliency Fair in the spring, tentatively called,”New Beginnings, Traditional Wisdom”: workshops, displays, and activity ideas, plus location and timing
· List of Resources — compiling and making available a list of organizations, books, blogs, etc — about climate change other possible challenges to our local resiliency
· Next steps in the Shelburne Falls Food Security Project
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
Hilltown Families said,
October 5, 2009 at 6:25 pm
STATE ENERGY PLANS THREATEN TO RAVAGE CLIMATE AND FORESTS
Wood-Burning Biomass Power Plants Worse Than Coal and Other Fossil Fuels
On September 16, a western Massachusetts team addressed the House and Senate Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture on the topic of state renewable energy policy and the environment. Ellen Moyer, Ph.D., P.E., and Chris Matera, P.E, testified about the negative climate and forest impacts of the Patrick administration’s plans to provide public subsidies and incentives to a series of wood-burning biomass power plants.
Moyer’s presentation focused on wood-burning plants and climate change, and made the case that the poor efficiency of biomass-to-electricity plants results in carbon dioxide emissions that are significantly larger than those produced by coal and other fossil fuel plants. “Less than 25% of the energy in wood is converted to electricity,” Moyer said. “As a result, biomass burners such as the ones proposed for Massachusetts emit 50% more carbon dioxide per unit of electricity generated than coal and 150% more than natural gas-fired power plants.” (www.maforests.org/Moyer.ppt)
Dynamic maps unveiled by Matera projected severe forest impacts in central and western Massachusetts if the wood-burning biomass power plants are built. Biomass fuel requirements for five proposed plants were added to the current timber harvest within the state to show the combined impacts. “If these biomass plants are brought on line, with their voracious appetite for wood, the forests throughout central and western Massachusetts would be logged in only 9 to 16 years,” Matera said. The simulations can be seen at: http://www.maforests.org/Impacts.htm .
“Aggressive logging and clear-cutting of state parks and forests has already started, and the timber program loses money, so taxpayers are paying to cut down their own forests,” said Matera. “Fortunately, strong citizen protest has prompted a review of public land logging policy, but as it stands today, 80% of state parks and forests are slated for logging, and new plans created last November call for a 650% increase in logging.” Matera showed photographs to the committee exposing recent state forest clear-cuts, prompting Chairman William Straus, D-Mattapoisett, to call for a field trip to visit these damaged public lands. (www.maforests.org/Biomess.ppt)
Matera indicated that public lands represent only 10% of Massachusetts land area and stated, “Governor Patrick has a golden opportunity to step in and strongly protect these public forests for their ecological, economical and recreational benefits for all the current and future citizens of Massachusetts, but he also needs to stop his agencies from promoting and fast-tracking dirty wood-burning biomass plants that pollute more than coal and would devastate Massachusetts forests for only a 1% increase in electricity.”
In a related development, a citizen-led ballot initiative calls for a ban on taxpayer subsidies to biomass burners. Proponents argue that biomass power plants are worse greenhouse gas polluters than coal and that providing lucrative taxpayer and rate-payer subsidies to wood-burning biomass power plants starves the development of truly green energy technologies such as solar, geothermal, properly sited wind, conservation and efficiency. For information on the ballot initiative, call 1-800-729-1363 or visit http://www.stopspewingcarbon.com.
Contact: Chris Matera, P.E., christoforest@maforests.org 413-341-3878
Ellen Moyer, Ph.D., P.E., ellenmoyer@em-green.com 413-862-3452
Hilltown Families said,
October 5, 2009 at 5:37 pm
Meeting of the West County Resilience Conversation
Shelburne Falls, MA – October 5, 2009
On Tuesday, October 6, 2009, at the Shelburne Senior Center, the West County Resilience Conversation will hold its next meeting. Everyone is welcome, and it’s free. From 7:00 -8:30 P.M.
The conversation will include updates on the global climate change situation as well the Shelburne Falls Food Security Project and plans for upcoming meetings.
Everyone is reminded that the West County Resilience Conversations happen on the first Tuesday evening of each month at the Shelburne Senior Center, from 7:00 – 9:00 pm. The next meetings will be held on November 3 and December 1.
For more information, please call 625-2525 or visit the website: http://www.valleylists.com/item/education-re–environmental-awareness-building-west-county-resilience.
Hilltown Families said,
October 2, 2009 at 5:21 am
Welcome to CET’s EcoUpdates, an occasional email bulletin that keeps you up to date on interesting environmental workshops and events.
******************************************
Greening Our Homes and Lives: Priorities and Practices
A seminar with Bruce Harley
Friday, October 2
5:30 p.m.
Berkshire Museum
Join us this Friday night for an inspiring talk with Bruce Harley, and enjoy locally produced hors d’ouevres at our 3rd annual kick-off event for the Green Buildings Open House Tour. Come learn how to retrofit your home to make it as efficient as possible and pick up a listing of Berkshire sites on the tour this year. Bruce is the Technical Director at Conservation Services Group in Westboro, MA, where he provides oversight of technical issues and energy modeling for residential programs, including LEED for homes. Bruce is the author of Cut Your Energy Bills Now: 150 smart ways to save money and make your home more comfortable and green. After Bruce’s talk, tour hosts will be on hand to describe highlights of their homes and businesses that will be open to the public on Saturday. For more information contact Cynthia Grippaldi at 413-445-4556 ext. 25.
The 8th annual Green Buildings Open House Tour
Saturday, October 3
10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Don’t miss the 2009 Green Buildings Open House Tour! From roof-integrated solar PV to pole-mounted PV, evacuated tube solar hot water, passive solar design, and extreme energy efficiency, there will be much to see and learn this year. After you’ve canvassed Berkshire county from North to South, relax at the Barrington Brewery with a solar-brewed beer and conversation with renewable energy expert Chris Vreeland, PE, of Precision Decisions at 2 p.m. This event is part of the American Solar Energy Society’s National Solar Tour. For more information contact Cynthia Grippaldi at 413-445-4556 ext. 25.
Comprehensive Hazardous Waste Collection
Saturday, October 17
9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Great Barrington Recycling Center
This is the last opportunity in 2009 for residents of towns belonging to the Southern Berkshire HHW Collaborative to rid themselves of all kinds of toxics. Everything from old oil paint to mercury, electronics, muriatic acid, photo chemicals, pool chemicals, and all the other yucky stuff lurking in garages, and under kitchen sinks and in hobby closets that should be disposed of responsibly. CET is here to help. Registration is mandatory. Call Rob Tocchio at 413-445-4556 ext. 30.
Wind Energy in the Berkshires: An Information Session
October 19
6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
Berkshire Community College – K111
Join us for this exciting information session on the potential for wind power development in the Berkshires. Senator Ben Downing will be on hand for opening remarks, and Ken Kimmell from the Executive Office of Energy and the Entironment will discuss the Wind Siting Reform Act. UMass Wind Energy Center staff will cover the potential for wind in our region, and there will be time for questions and answers. Contact Nancy Nylen for more information.
Searsburg Wind Farm Tours
Wednesday, October 14
Tours are offered at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m. and registration is required
Searsburg, Vermont
Eleven 550-kilowatt wind turbines turn and hum in the blue sky over Searsburg, VT, and in the process generate enough emission-free electricity to supply 1,600 average Vermont households. Searsburg also serves as an educational resource and research tool for investigating wind generation in cold climates. If you would like to experience an operational wind power facility up close, contact Cynthia Grippaldi at 413-445-4556 ext. 25.
Solar Energy for Your Home or Business
In partnership with the Berkshire Museum
Wednesday, November 4
6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
(6 p.m. check-in)
Berkshire Museum
Right now there are great incentives for adding solar hot water to your home. And if you have any interest, this seminar is for you. Chris Vreeland, a registered professional engineer, is the featured presenter. Attendees will learn about financial incentives available through state and federal programs. Currently, the Commonwealth Solar photovoltaic program is of particular benefit to households with moderate income and home values and for commercial projects. Residents will also learn about a 0% interest loan that they may qualify for (up to $15,000) to finance energy efficiency measures and solar hot water systems through the MassSAVE home energy efficiency program. Vreeland will provide detailed information on these and other financial incentives available. For more information, contact Cynthia Grippaldi at 413-445-4556 ext. 25.
Hilltown Families said,
October 1, 2009 at 12:09 pm
Molly Hale writes:
Please come to the Northampton City Council meeting tonight, Thursday 10/1 to support a resolution which will be introduced tonight, to make Northampton a city that is friendly to air-drying of clothes. The text of the resolution follows. This is part of the “350 Clotheslines” project whose goal is to convince at least 350 people to sign a pledge to “retire your dryer” that is, to try to air-dry their clothes whenever possible. Because clothes dryers are one of the main energy using appliances in a home, this is a simple and effective energy conservation method. We feel the resolution is a meaningful way for city councilors to go on the record as supporting energy conservation as a crucial element of sustainability.
The number 350 is the maximum level of CO2, in parts per million, that current research shows is the absolute upper ceiling the earth can handle without spiraling into uncontrollable climate change. Many different 350 projects around the world are planned on or leading up to the International Day of Climate Action on October 24, 2009. The goal of the global actions is to call attention to this important number in advance of the U.N. Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen in December 2009.
To go to the 350 Clotheslines website and sign the pledge, see
http://www.350clotheslines.afscwm.org
The city council meeting takes place at 7 pm in the Council Chambers in the low building behind city hall. Public comments of up to 3 minutes per person are heard beginning at 7 pm if you sign up right before the meeting starts.
Thank you!
Molly Hale
RESOLUTION:
WHEREAS, Climate Change has been proven to be caused by fossil fuels and is now threatening the world environment and human society;
WHEREAS, the limitation of burning of fossil fuels is essential to
prevent the most harmful effects of climate change;
WHEREAS, in many homes in our community the clothesdryer is one of the top three appliances in the consumption of electricity produced by the burning of fossil fuels;
WHEREAS, air drying of clothes is a free alternative to clothesdryers; and
WHEREAS, the City of Northampton has adopted a plan for sustainability and strives to promote sound ecological practices…
THEREFORE, the City of Northampton resolves to promote the air-drying of clothes and the elimination of barriers within the City to the outdoor drying of clothes.
Hilltown Families said,
September 25, 2009 at 9:17 am
Claire Morenon writes:
Hello, everyone!
For the last two years, there has been a vibrant, diverse, and very crowded farmers’ market in Greenfield on the first Saturday in February. A dedicated group of volunteers, including CISA staff, organizes this annual event, which includes workshops on eating and growing locally, a barter fair, and educational displays. The
market kicks off a week of local food potlucks, film screenings, and skill-sharing workshops all in the darkest days of winter. CISA is working on organizing a Winter Fare market this year in Northampton, and we need help!
We will be holding a meeting on Tuesday, October 6th at 6:30pm in the second-floor meeting room at River Valley Market. My goal is to form a volunteer committee to help with planning the market, but coming to the meeting doesn’t commit you to anything. Anyone with an interest in the market or ideas for making it great is welcome to attend- please tell your friends and spread the word! If you can’t attend the meeting but would like to stay in the loop, please let me know.
If you’re interested in supporting the effort in Greenfield, you can email me and I’ll add you to that list as well- there’s an established committee there that could definitely use some more help. For more information about the Greenfield market, visit http://www.winterfare.org.
Thanks!
Claire
Claire Morenon, Program Coordinator
Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture (CISA)
1 Sugarloaf Street
South Deerfield, MA 01373
http://www.buylocalfood.org
(413) 665-7100 ext. 16
Strengthening Farms and Communities Since 1993
Save Senior FarmShare so low-income seniors can share in the bounty.
More information at http://www.buylocalfood.org
Hilltown Families said,
September 18, 2009 at 4:22 am
Saturday, September 26th in Northampton
GREEN Northampton and the Massaschusetts Municipal Association (MMA) are sponsoring a home energy efficiency seminar in Northampton. The seminar is on Saturday, September 26, 2009 from 9AM to 11AM in the sanctuary and glass house at College Church, 58 Pomeroy Terrace. Everyone is welcome whether a Northampton resident or not.
MMA is funding 130 seminars around Massachusetts to address home energy
efficiency.
“Residential buildings are one of the three leading sources of greenhouse gas
emissions in Northampton according to a study that the City of Northampton
published in 2002. MMA is hoping to raise awareness about the availability of free
home energy audits, the audit and insulation process and the programs that are available to homeowners to help them fund energy efficiency upgrades in their homes. Reading this report crystallized for GREEN Northampton how Northampton can make its largest contribution to stemming climate change. Commercial buildings are the leading source of greenhouse gases but clearly our homes need to be aggressively insulated. That’s why GREEN Northampton has targeted building emission reductions for advocacy and action,” said David Starr, a co-founder of GREEN Northampton.
The seminar is designed to educate homeowners about how to reduce their energy
costs. The seminar will also cover how to spend money wisely on weatherizing
homes, how to finance the work that needs to be done and the government rebates
that are available. The seminar will stress the importance of reducing heat usage by
providing do-it-yourself sealing techniques; tips on hiring a contractor for in-depth
alterations; resources for home audits and resources for financing alterations. Free
educational materials will be distributed to everyone in attendance.
“I attended one of these free workshops in the spring, and I learned so much
that I volunteered to help organize one for my own neighborhood,” explains
Faye Wolfe, a GREEN Northampton supporter and city resident. “The workshops
are very useful for people who own old, drafty, energy-guzzling houses, and
much of the discussion is geared to the interests of those attending.
They’re also an excellent way to find out about how government subsidies can
help you spend less to make your home warmer and more energy-efficient.”
A U.S. and Massachusetts rebate and incentive information sheet for home energy
efficiency upgrades from MMA is available upon request. To find out more, contact
David Starr, 413 584 8785 or info@GREENNorthampton.org..
Hilltown Families said,
September 11, 2009 at 12:48 pm
FOOD PRESERVATION WORKSHOPS IN THE PIONEER VALLEY
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2009
Both events run from 9am-3pm
A) Cummington Community House
33 Main Street, Cummington
B) Town Farm
1 Ventures Field Road, Northampton
The workshop in Cummington will be taught by Kathy Harrison who is author of “Just in Case: How to be Self-Sufficient When the Unexpected Happens.” Workshop highlights include using a dehydrator to put by vegetables, canning sauces and preserves using water bath canning, pickling techniques for delicious condiments that can complement the main meal, ways to safely can meat using a pressure cooker, and storage for root crops. Workshop participants will receive hand-outs on what different techniques are ideal for various crops, and list of the top resources available for learning more details about food preservation.
The workshop in Northampton will be taught by Abigail Clarke, a yoga teacher and an avid gardener and food preservervation and will explore the uses of drying, freezing, canning and pickling and explain the equipment needed for each technique. The workshop will also cover the basics of root cellaring for storing root crops throughout the winter. Clarke will teach some basic body mechanics for ease in the kitchen, so20all those hours of chopping, stirring and canning don’t put unnecessary strain on the body. Attendees are also encouraged to bring their own questions to the workshop.
In addition to Cummington and Northampton, workshops are also being held in Brookline, South Natick, Concord, Groton, Princeton, Winchendon Springs, Shelburne, Springfield, and Great Barrington.
To register, visit http://www.nofamass.org/programs/extensionevents/preservation.php or contact Ben Grosscup 413-658- 5374, . The workshop cost is $50, and there is a $5 discount for membership in NOFA/Mass. There is also a $5 discount for registration on or before September 5, 2009. Pre-registration is requested, but on-site registration is available for an extra $5 charge. If you plan to do a walk-in registration, please call in advance to find out if there is space availability. A potluck lunch will be shared at the event, and registrants are invited to bring something to share or bring their own lunch.
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 20, 2009 at 7:51 pm
From: Mary Breeding
Subject: Alternative Energy Training
Date: Monday, July 20, 2009, 12:17 PM
The Center for Business and Technology is very pleased to announce the following alternative energy programs that have been scheduled for the upcoming term:
* Design and Documentation of Photovoltaic (PV) Systems beginning on September 12
* Photovoltaic Practitioner Certificate Program beginning on September 21
* PV (Photovoltaic) Primer on November 14
* General Solar Applications for the Consumer on October 17
* Principles of Green Buildings (online course begins when you enroll)
Complete details on these and other alternative programs are at http://cbt.stcc.edu/specialinterest/index.asp#Alternative_Energy and you can register online at https://www.stcc.edu/cbt/index.asp
Go to http://www.umass.edu/green for information on Clean Energy Connections 2009
Mary Breeding, Asst. Vice President
Center for Business and Technology
Springfield Technical Community College
1 Federal St. Bldg. 101-R
Springfield, MA 01105
(413) 755-4501 FAX (413) 755-6319
breeding@stcc.edu
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/
Jessica Gifford said,
June 16, 2009 at 9:08 am
Green Directory in the works for the Pioneer Valley!
If you run a business or organization that shows concern for the environment, then please submit a listing (it’s FREE!). I have undertaken the exciting project of compiling a green guide to the Pioneer Valley, entitled “The Valley Green Scene” that will include a business directory and coupons, information about green efforts taking place in this area, and tips for greening one’s lifestyle. My intention in creating this booklet is to:
· Help grow green businesses & organizations & promote green business practices
· Develop a green business network
· Help environmentally conscious customers identify businesses/organizations that are making efforts to be green and offer coupon incentives to encourage customers to explore different businesses
· Encourage individuals to engage in green personal practices and community efforts, and take advantage of local resources and opportunities
I believe that most people care about the environment and want to support eco-friendly practices, but may struggle to match their actions with their values. Many people do not have time to invest in researching the green options available to them, and may also be concerned about affordability. I am creating this booklet to address those needs, and because it is something I have often wished for myself. I plan to offer this booklet free of charge and distribute it at a number of locations throughout the Valley, including many of the businesses listed in the directory.
To be included in the Valley Green Scene, please submit a free listing of no more than 50 words in a Word document to jessica@getonthegreenscene.com. The listing should include the name of your business or organization, contact information and a brief description of the products and services you offer and your green efforts. If you are interested in running a larger ad (which will help cover the costs of printint) or offering a coupon, please email me jessica@getonthegreenscene.com for details. For additional exposure, you may also list your business online (for free!) at the Local Greenie website overseen by Cody Torn at http://www.localgreenie.org.
My goal is to include at least 50 businesses/organizations in the first edition of the Valley Green Scene, and print 750 copies (on 100% recycled paper) to be distributed around the Valley. You can help achieve this goal by forwarding this letter to other green businesses you are aware of that may like to be included. I hope this will be an ongoing project that will continue to grow each year. I am very excited about this project and hope that you will join with me to foster a greener future. It’s time to get on the Green Scene! I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Jessica Gifford
Matt & Mary Kelly said,
June 11, 2009 at 5:31 am
Hello Berkshire Advocates for Animals:
Circus Season is upon is again, and once again, we will be there to support the animals. The annual circus is coming soon to Dalton:
Carson & Barnes Circus is in Dalton on Monday & Tuesday, June 29th & 30th.
Our protest schedule will be for one hour before each show.
The PROTEST SCHEDULE will be as follows:
Dalton: On the sidewalk outside the American Legion Field on Route 9, at the same place we have been every year. [256 North St. (Rt. 9) Dalton, MA 01226]
Monday, June 29th & Tuesday June 30th
(2 shows each day = 2 protests each day):
Protest Times: 3:00 to 4:00 & 6:30 to 7:30
We are annually told by the police not to have signs with sticks (so we can’t use them as weapons!).
For more information on the Carson & Barnes Circus, check:
http://www.circuses.com/pdfs/CarsonBarnes_fact.pdf
For more information on circuses in general see:
http://www.circuses.com/
PETA offers flyers for Carson & Barnes Circus:
http://www.petaliterature.com/prodinfo.asp?number=ENT294
See you there!
For the animals,
Matt & Mary Kelly
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
Hilltown Families said,
June 10, 2009 at 4:51 am
Scream for CISA ice cream!
CISA is marking its 15th year of supporting local agriculture with a limited edition ice cream flavor, aptly named CISA Berry Local Blueberry. Created by Bart’s Homemade, the ice cream is made with blueberries from The Benson Place in Heath and can currently be purchased at Cornucopia Foods, Foster’s Market, Green Fields Market and the River Valley Market. Additional retailers as well as Scoop Shops and some area restaurants will also carry the ice cream through the summer months. A portion of all sales of CISA Berry Local Blueberry will go to support CISA’s mission. Gary Schaefer and Barbara Fingold, owners of Bart’s Homemade, hope that their special ice cream will help draw attention to CISA’s work and will inspire other local food producers to create product partnerships with CISA. Pick up a pint today and learn how you can support CISA as well.
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
Hilltown Families said,
June 3, 2009 at 7:05 pm
Junior Solar Sprint
Saturday, June 6
9 a.m. to around noon
Reid Middle School
Every spring, middle school students from across the region race and display model solar cars that they have designed and built at school. In constructing their cars, students learn how solar panels create electricity and how that energy can be used to perform important tasks. Join us for the 2009 Berkshire Junior Sprint (JSS) at Reid Middle School in Pittsfield this Saturday as students bring their creativity and teamwork to the starting line. This fun event raises community awareness about transportation, technology and the environment. For more information contact Cynthia Grippaldi at 413-445-4556 ext. 25.
=========
Youth Environmental Summit (YES!)
Tuesday, June 9
9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Berkshire Community College
During the course of the school year many students from upper elementary through high school have been working on school-based environmental projects. The summit gives students the opportunity to present their findings to their peers. Schools participating in the Berkshire Bank BEST program (Berkshire Environmental School Teams) are among the schools participating in the second year of this event. Last year’s summit featured presentations by BEST and other schools on habitat study, energy use, conservation, applicability of renewable energy at school, and expanding school recycling programs. For more information on the BEST program, contact Cynthia Grippaldi at 413-445-4556 ext. 25.
=========
Solar Energy Seminar for homes and businesses
Wednesday, June 10
6:30 to 8:30 p.m.
(6 p.m. check-in)
Cummington Community House
There has never been a better time to invest in solar hot water or photovoltaic, and if you attend this seminar, you’ll see why. The Commonwealth Solar Photovoltaic Program is of particular benefit to households with moderate income and home values and for commercial projects. We also cover smart energy efficiency upgrades to make, and how to determine if a solar installation is a good fit for your situation. Registration is required and a donation of $10 is suggested. For more information, or to register, contact Tomasin Whitaker at 413-586-7350 ext. 25.
=========
Oil paint and used motor oil collections
Wednesday, June 10
4 to 6:30 p.m.
Great Barrington Recycling Center
Dispose of old oil paint and used motor oil responsibly by bringing it to one of our collections. This collection is for the residents of towns belonging to the South Berkshire Hazardous Waste Collaborative. Registration is mandatory—to register or for more information on what can be disposed of, contact Rob Tocchio at 413-445-4556 ext. 30.
=========
Comprehensive household hazardous waste collection
Saturday, July 11
9 a.m. to noon
Stockbridge Recycling Center
We’ll take (almost) everything from oil-based paint, stains, and varnishes to roofing tar, pool chemicals, insecticides, fertilizers, moth balls, chemistry sets, fluorescent lamps and mercury thermometers (as well as a whole bunch of other toxic things.) Residents of towns belonging to the South Berkshire Hazardous Waste Collaborative are eligible to participate in this collection. For a fee residents can rid themselves of old television and computer monitors. Businesses, schools and institutions from across the Berkshires are also eligible to participate for a fee. Registration is mandatory—contact Rob Tocchio at 413-445-4556 ext. 30.
=========
Wind Farm Tours
Wednesday, July 15
Searsburg, VT
Tours are offered at 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2:30 p.m.
CET helps coordinate periodic tours of the Searsburg Wind Facility to give the public an opportunity to see these beautiful turbines up close and get the feel of an operating wind power site. Eleven 550-kilowatt wind turbines make up the 6-megawatt power plant, providing enough emission-free electricity to supply 1,600 average Vermont households. For more information and to sign up for a tour, contact Cynthia Grippaldi at 413-445-4556 ext. 25.
Get ready for the next heating season with 75% off insulation and air sealing!
Beat the rush—make home energy improvements now and save fuel the next time you turn on the heat! Schedule your no-cost home energy assessment with MassSAVE, and take advantage of generous incentives, including a 75% reduction (up to $2,000) on the cost of adding insulation and sealing air leaks in your home. Homeowners may qualify for a 0% interest loan (up to $15,000) to finance insulation and air sealing, high-efficiency heating and hot water systems, windows and solar hot water. Call 1-866-527-7283 to schedule your free energy audit and get an insulation proposal.
Hilltown Families said,
June 3, 2009 at 6:11 pm
DOWNING PROPOSAL PROMOTES ACCESS
TO FRESH, LOCALLY GROWN, NUTRITIOUS FOOD
Boston- Today, state Senator Benjamin B. Downing (D-Pittsfield) testified before the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture, urging the body to act favorably on legislation he filed to establish the Massachusetts Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Farmers Market Project (Senate Bill 393).
“This proposal ensures everyone has access to nutritious, locally grown produce,” said Downing. “Once implemented, more families across the Commonwealth will be able to shop at farmers’ markets, enjoy healthier meals, and support local farmers.”
S. 393 creates the Massachusetts EBT Farmers’ Market Project within the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA), to provide wireless EBT technology to state approved farmers’ markets across the Commonwealth. Doing so will allow recipients of Food Stamp benefits to purchase farm fresh fruit, vegetables, and other locally grown, nutritious products at local farmers’ markets.
Downing’s legislation restores a benefit previously available to Food Stamp recipients. Prior to the implementation of electronic EBT cards, Food Stamps were distributed to recipients in the form of coupon books, redeemable at stores and widely accepted at farmers’ markets. When Food Stamp benefits were converted to EBT cards, the lack of technology at farmers’ markets precluded recipients from being able to purchase their farm fresh products. With successful passage of this bill, Food Stamp recipients will once again have access to healthful, fresh and locally grown food to bring home to their families.
Barbara Zheutlin, Executive Director of Berkshire Grown, a non-profit organization supporting local farms through the promotion of local farmers’ markets and other buy local initiatives, said of Downing’s bill, “This is a wonderful way to increase access to locally grown food.”
The bill now awaits further action from the Joint Committee on Environment, Natural Resources and Agriculture.
Local Farmers’ Markets Location, Dates & Times:
http://www.farmfresh.org/food/farmersmarkets.php?zip=01060&show=40&sortby=closeness&startrow=1
For additional information on farmers’ markets across the Commonwealth including crop availability information, shopping tips, produce storage tips, nutrition information, recipes and more, visit DAR’s website at http://www.mass.gov/agr.
Hilltown Families said,
May 21, 2009 at 9:50 am
Solar Energy for your Home or Business
On Wednesday, June 10, the Center for Ecological Technology (CET) will offer a Solar Energy for your Home or Business seminar at the Cummington Community House. Check in begins at 6 p.m. and the presentation is from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Advance registration is required and a donation of $10 is suggested. Chris Vreeland, a registered professional engineer and renewable energy consultant, will be the featured speaker. The event is co-sponsored by the Hilltown Sustainability Group.
Interest in solar hot water and solar electric (photovoltaic) systems for homes, farms, schools and businesses in the Pioneer Valley continues to grow due to volatile fuel prices and concern about the effects of fossils fuels on our health and environment. Attendees will learn about grants, rebates and tax incentives to offset the cost of investing in energy efficiency and solar photovoltaic and hot water systems.
This seminar is designed to help homeowners and businesses determine if a solar installation would be a good fit for their situation. Attendees will learn the basics about how solar hot water and solar photovoltaic systems work, the components of a solar energy system, how to determine what size system is needed, whether they have a good site and how to gain additional benefits through energy efficient improvements.
Right now, the Commonwealth Solar photovoltaic program is of particular benefit to households with moderate income and home values and for commercial projects. Residents will also learn about a 0% interest loan that they may qualify for (up to $15,000) to finance energy efficiency measures and solar hot water systems through the MassSAVE home energy efficiency program. Vreeland will provide detailed information on these and other financial incentives available through state and federal programs.
For more information or to register for this seminar, contact Tomasin Whitaker at CET at 413-586-7350 ext. 25, or tomasin@cetonline.org.
CET is a non-profit energy and resource conservation organization that has served western Massachusetts for more than 30 years. CET is supported in part by the Massachusetts Cultural Council, a state agency. CET is an equal opportunity service provider. This workshop is made possible through grant funding from Western Massachusetts Electric Company (WMECO), Energy Federation Inc., and the Massachusetts Renewable Energy Trust.
–
CET Seminar: Solar Energy for your Home or Business
Can a solar electric (photovoltaic) or solar hot water system work for you? Learn about solar technologies, appropriate siting and sizing for systems, costs and benefits, available tax credits, rebates and incentives, local installers, and energy efficiency measures. Wed. June 10 at Cummington Community House, registration 6:00 p.m., workshop 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. $10 suggested donation. Registration required. Contact Tomasin Whitaker at tomasin@cetonline.org/413-586-7350 x 25.
Hilltown Families said,
May 21, 2009 at 9:24 am
May 26th & 27th, 2009
The Berkshire Economic Development Corporation is a supporting partner of a new initiative – a 2 day Web Conference about Community Wind Energy (as part of a series on Renewable Energy) organized by Green Energy Web Conferences. It also features two great Massachusetts companies:
Jiminy Peak Mountain Resort and Hyannis Country Garden among the 25+ speakers.
It is a unique online event providing the benefits of great live content (all sessions are also recorded for easy playback), no travel-time, and interactivity at a fraction of the costs of a regular conference.
http://greenenergyconferences.com
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/
Kimberly said,
April 9, 2009 at 12:37 pm
Hilltowns Take Charge!
Earth Day, April 22 – Independence Day, July 4
5 Hilltowns launch Take Charge! campaigns to meet our energy challenges
Pledge to take 1 or all 5 steps to save money and energy
Check raffle prizes and your town’s progress here!
TAKE CHARGE! is a community-wide campaign to help residents
save money and meet our energy challenges.
Co-sponsored by the Hilltown Sustainability Group, The Old Creamery,
the Center for Ecological Technology (CET) and Coldham & Hartman Architects.
Many Thanks to Our Local Partners
Saving Money + Energy = Energy Independence +
Climate Protection Reducing home energy use is an important step in meeting our energy challenges. It saves money, reduces our dependence on foreign oil, and saves resources for future generations. It’s one of the best ways to reduce your “carbon footprint.”
5 Easy Steps to Save Money on Energy Bills in Your Home
Call for a Free Home Energy Audit
- MassSAVE will pay for 75% (up to $2,000) of recommended measures like adding insulation and sealing air leaks in your home.
- A MassSAVE auditor will assess your home’s energy use and identify cost-effective upgrades. Then MassSAVE will connect you with approved contractors who do the work.
- Ask about special programs for income eligible households.
- To schedule an audit, call MassSAVE at 866-527-7283 or visit: http://www.masssave.com.
Save on Lighting
- Turn off lights not in use.
- Change bulbs used more than 1 hour per day to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFL).
- Use 75% less electricity than standard (incandescent) bulbs.
- Get CFLs to fit almost any fixture. Save 10% when you buy energy products at CET’s online store:
http://www.cetonline.org at Shop Efficiency.
Turn Down the Heat
- As much as 50% of the energy used in your home goes to heating.
- Turn the heat down when you’re working and sleeping – save 10% by lowering 5º.
- Get an easy-to-install thermostat that can turn heat up or down automatically.
Save on Hot Water
- Turn down your hot water heater to 120°F.
- Take showers instead of baths – and set timer to 5 minutes!
- Turn your washing machine and dishwasher to energy saving settings.
- Wash clothes in cold water.
Take the Kilowatt Challenge
- See if you can use less electricity now than you did this time last year.
- The numbers to beat? Look on your electricity bill for your kWh usage over the past 12 months
- Pull the plug on “phantom loads”!
Electronics that are “off” but are warm to the touch (like TVs and computers) are drawing power even when turned off! Unplug them or put them on power strips.
- Use a clothesline or drying rack.
Hilltown Families said,
April 9, 2009 at 9:40 am
Raise a glass for CET!
Thursday, April 23
5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Guido’s Fresh Marketplace
Great Barrington
$10 at the door
Guido’s Fresh Marketplace is hosting a wine tasting fundraiser to support CET’s community outreach efforts. The event is open to the public and tickets will be available at the door for $10 per person. CET staff will be available at the wine tasting with information about upcoming events and opportunities that can help people save energy, money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Join us at Guido’s in celebration of Earth Day, and enjoy a fine selection of wines and hors d’oeuvres. For more information, contact Laura Dubester at 413-445-4556 ext. 13.
CET’s 14th Annual Textile Drive
Saturday, April 25 and Sunday, April 26
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday
at CET’s Elm Street office
(Drop off locations also in North and South Berkshire County)
Bring your clean, dry, and no longer wanted clothing and textiles packed in strong plastic bags to CET’s 14th Annual Textile Drive! Additional drop-off sites are listed on our Events page or contact Rob Tocchio at (413) 445-4556 ext. 30. We’ll also be collecting non-perishable food items on behalf of Goodwill’s Food Pantry program. (Food donations will only be accepted at our Pittsfield collection.)
Green Drinks
Pittsfield Brew Works
April 21
Theodore’s in Springfield
April 28
Route 7 Grill in Great Barrington
May 6
Enjoy a pint, and rub elbows with your green pals. Contact Jamie Cahillane at 413-445-4556 ext. 14 for more details.
Green Jobs
CET is seeking qualified individuals to support our work in the MassSAVE program, a statewide effort to improve the energy efficiency of homes. We are hiring:
*
Air Sealing Technicians to help reduce drafts in customer’s homes
*
Data Administrator to support the program’s data and computer needs
*
Audit Administrator to work with MassSAVE customers
Cover letters and resumes can be sent to Megan McDonough.
Take Charge!
Saturday, April 25, 10:30 a.m. to noon
Meekins Library, on the lawn
Williamsburg
Enjoy music and refreshments as Williamsburg launches its Take Charge! home energy savings campaign. Residents can pledge to take 1 or all 5 steps that save money and energy and protect the climate. Williamsburg is joining Worthington, Cummington, Plainfield and Goshen in a friendly competition to sign up residents between Earth Day and Independence Day, when raffle prizes from local businesses will be drawn. For more information contact Tomasin Whitaker at 413-586-7350 ext. 25.
Quick Reminder
HHW Collections of oil paint and used motor oil
Saturday, April 18
9 to 11:30 a.m.
Great Barrington Recycling Center
Saturday, May 16
9 to 11 a.m.
Lenox DPW
Save the dates!
Renewable Energy Seminars to be scheduled soon!
Stay tuned – in a matter of weeks, or perhaps even days, we will be announcing our schedule of renewable energy seminars. These seminars are excellent—you’ll learn everything you need to know about solar PV, solar thermal and wind. Our presenter also gives a good overview of energy efficiency. Seminars are held at varying locations in the Berkshires and the Pioneer Valley, so there’s sure to be a location near you!
Home Energy Saving Seminar
May 21 at 6:30 p.m.
Egremont Firehouse
Homeowners will learn how to reduce their energy costs in this free seminar.
Junior Solar Sprint
Saturday, June 6
Reid Middle School
The 2009 Berkshire JSS is just around the corner. This fun event raises community awareness about transportation, technology and the environment. Keep your fingers crossed for a sunny morning! For more information, contact Cynthia Grippaldi at 413-445-4556 ext. 25.
Searsburg Wind Farm Tours
Don’t miss your chance to see and learn more about this 6-megawatt power plant that has been providing enough emission-free electricity to supply 1,600 average Vermont households since it went online in July 1997. For more information, contact Cynthia Grippaldi at 413-445-4556 ext. 25.
Hilltown Families said,
March 18, 2009 at 7:33 am
Green Drinks
Theodore’s in Springfield
March 24
5 to 7 p.m.
Franklin County
Rotating location – Contact Garth
April 1
5:30 to 7:30 pm.
Route 7 Grill, Great Barrington
April 1
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Northampton Brewery
April 8
5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Pittsfield Brew Works
April 21
5:15 to 7:15 p.m.
The drinks aren’t green but the people sure are… Contact Jamie Cahillane at 413-445-4556 ext. 14 for more information.
Sienna Wildfield said,
March 5, 2009 at 7:50 pm
Linda Huebner writes:
Lobby for Animals Workshops
March 11, 12, 26, or 29
Interested in learning more about how to lobby for animals?
The MSPCA Advocacy Department will be hosting several workshops across the state to
explain the legislative process and how you can make a difference for animals at the
state level. The presentation will cover Massachusetts animal protection issues in 2009,
determining what issues are suited for the legislative process and how a bill is filed,
legislative hearings and how to testify, moving bills through the House & Senate,
contacting your elected officials successfully and using the media to advance animal
protection issues.
March 11 Brockton Animal Care and Adoption Center (6:30pm)
March 12 Boston Animal Care and Adoption Center (6:30pm)
March 26 Springfield Animal Care and Adoption Center (6:30pm)
March 29 Methuen Animal Care and Adoption Center (2:00pm)
Put what you learn into action at the Annual
Lobby Day for Animals
April 14, 2009
10am-2pm
Massachusetts State House, Nurses Hall
Please join the MSPCA at the State House in Boston at our annual Lobby Day for Animals.
This year we will join with other animal protection groups, including the Humane Society
of the United States. The event presents an exciting opportunity to connect with other
animal advocates and meet with your state Senator and Representative to let them know
what animal-related legislation is important to you.
The day will begin with a presentation on animal protection bills filed for the 2009-2010
legislative session. After learning about these bills, you will be able to meet with
legislators from your district to discuss them.
Please RSVP by completing the online registration at http://www.mspca.org/lobbyday and/or see
the attached flier
Thanks – Hope to see you there!
Sienna Wildfield said,
February 25, 2009 at 11:09 pm
Greenfield Community College is offering Community Education courses this Spring:
Solar Hot Water Heating meets Wednesday, March 4 from 6:30-8:30pm and costs $25. Instructor is Peter Talmage
Small Scale Wind Energy: Can it work for you? meets Wednesday, April 8 from 6:30 to 8:30, also $25. Instructor is Walt Congdon.
Practical Photovoltaics (PV) meets Mondays from 6-9pm from May 18 through June 8 and Saturday June 13 from 9-1 (15 hours total). Cost is $165. Instructor is Peter Talmage.
Folks can register online at
https://greenfieldcc.3dcartstores.com/
For further information, you can call GCC at 413-775-1803
Sienna Wildfield said,
February 13, 2009 at 6:08 am
Landowners Looking for Tax Savings? Massachusetts Enacts State Conservation Credit
Capping a year of significant legislative gains for agriculture and land protection, the Massachusetts Legislature and Governor Deval Patrick joined together in the waning days of the 2008 legislative session to enact legislation creating a state conservation tax credit. The measure goes into effect in 2011 and provides a state income tax credit to taxpayers who donate land or a conservation easement to the state or a nonprofit conservation organization. The credit is valued at 50 percent of the appraised value of the land, limited to $50,000 per gift, and can be carried forward for 10 consecutive years. At American Farmland Trust’s urging, the measure also creates a study commission to develop recommendations regarding whether to make the credit transferable.
Sienna Wildfield said,
January 14, 2009 at 6:14 am
GREEN DRINKS (http://www.greendrinks.org)
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. Contact John Majercak for information about Northampton events, Jamie Cahillane for more info on Green Drink happenings in the Berkshires, or Carlyn Saltman for more info on Green Drinks in Franklin County.
Green Drinks are regularly scheduled events that begin
at 5:15 p.m. at the Barrington Brewery, 424 Stockbridge Road, Great Barrington on the first Tuesday 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 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
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.
Greg Seaman said,
October 8, 2008 at 5:48 am
Hello, and welcome to Eartheasy’s October newsletter.
Is there any silver lining to the financial crisis?
It is easy to see how difficult the financial crisis is for the average person and family. But the financial ‘meltdown’ is an enevitible correction which will result in a reality-based economic model and a return to healthier personal, family and social values.
http://eartheasy.com/article_financial_crisis.html
Build a backyard vegetable garden – updated
One of Eartheasy’s most popular articles, this information is especially pertinent today because of the anxiety we are all feeling due to the economic uncertainty. This 3-part article is regularly updated to reflect current knowledge and our own experiences with our two ‘research’ backyard gardens.
http://eartheasy.com/grow_backyard_vegetable_garden.html
“I wish I had a garden. I don’t pine for the latest gucci bag. With this economy I expect more people to find themselves in my situation.”
- Eartheasy site visitor
LED breakthrough may revolutionize lighting
Researchers at Purdue University have developed an inexpensive method for producing the highly efficient LED lightbulbs. It is estimated that, if widely adopted, overall electricity consumption in the US could be lowered 10% by the use of these bulbs.
http://eartheasy.com/article_led_breakthrough.html
When to turn off your lights
The cost effectiveness of when to turn off lights depends on the type of lights and the price of electricity. Here is some basic information to help you gain the most efficiency from your light bulbs.
http://eartheasy.com/article_lighting_when_turnoff.html
This summer my son Ben and I installed an alternate energy system in our house, with two solar panels on the roof, a battery bank and an inverter. We have tried out several lighting applications and we are very pleased with the lighting quality, in terms of both warmth and light coverage, of our new 4-watt LED lights.
Flow
The Sundance hit “FLOW: For Love of Water” is taking the country by storm and waking people up to our water crisis. Now is the time to plan ahead to ensure our personal and collective water wealth.
http://www.alternet.org/water/100506/flow%3A_the_film_that_will_change_the_way_you_think_a bout_water/
A lesson in ‘Rainscaping’ – building a garden that makes the best use of water
One solution to cleaning up the waterways, Lathan said, is to put contours back into the land by creating rain gardens.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/19/AR2008091901656.html?hpid= smartliving
“Ideally, most if not all of the water that falls on a site should stay on the site,” said Zora Lathan, executive director of the Chesapeake Ecology Center in Annapolis. But “we’ve leveled out the land and paved over paradise.”
Save water at your home – set up a rain collection system.
We have researched rain barrels and selected these models for ease of installation, cost and durability. To see these rainbarrels, and other water conservation products for the home:
http://eartheasy.com/shop/water_save.htm
Carmakers’ plug-in plans
Auto manufacturers are racing to be the first to put a ‘plug-in’ hybrid car on the market, and it looks like there will be two or three models available within two years. The prospect of getting 100mpg is within reach. Here are the models currently being developed:
http://eartheasy.com/live_plug-in_cars.html
Organic produce will soon be cheaper than conventional produce
A study by the British Soil Association suggests that the rising price of oil could soon make crops grown with chemical fertilizers more expensive than those produced more naturally.
http://eartheasy.com/article_organic_produce_cheaper.html
Catalogue Choice – reduce your catalogue load
Tired of your mailbox being stuffed with tons of annoying catalogs that you end up throwing away? Catalog Choice is a free service that lets you refuse catalogs you wish to no longer receive. The service cleans out your mailbox and saves a few trees at the same time.
http://www.catalogchoice.org/
Our amazing planet – Atmospheric Optics
Atmospheric Optics is a stunning collection of pictures that illustrate the strange and beautiful visual phenomena created by light, weather, and our atmosphere. Check out photos and explanations for everything from rainbows and ice halos to nacreous clouds and anti-crepuscular rays.
http://www.atoptics.co.uk/
Greg Seaman
Publisher
greg@eartheasy.com
http://eartheasy.com
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