More than two and a half years have passed since Cody and Ashley Murray’s water well exploded, transforming their Palo Pinto County ranch into an emergency scene.
With their burns healed and gone to scars, the couple and their two young children have since returned to their 160 acres outside of Perrin, about 60 miles northwest of Fort Worth.
The Murrays still lack a trusted source of local drinking water. And they're still waiting for answers about whether nearby gas production was to blame for the fireball that shot toward Cody’s face that August day — and why the Texas Railroad Commission, the state’s oil and gas regulator, seemed to miss signs warning that something like that could happen in their cattle-and-pumpjack-sprinkled slice of the Barnett Shale.
Outside experts have linked the explosion to nearby gas drilling. The Railroad Commission won’t comment on details of its investigation, other to confirm that it remains open.
“There is nothing new to report at this time,” spokeswoman Ramona Nye told The Texas Tribune. “The Commission takes this and every incident we investigate very seriously.”
The blast was caused by a buildup of methane gas in the water well that caused enough pressure to send water spraying in the family's pump house. Ashley Murray turned off the well pump and asked her husband to investigate, and when he turned it back on, the gas exploded, severely burning Cody, his father Jim; and Alyssa, Cody’s 4-year-old daughter.
Cody Murray took the brunt of the flames; with burns on his arms, upper back, neck, forehead and nose, the former oilfield worker spent a week in a burn unit.
The Murrays sued two nearby drillers in 2015. After Houston-based EOG Resources settled, the Murrays' attorneys have turned their attention to Fairway Resources, a subsidiary of Goldman Sachs, claiming the company's well was the source of the gas that ignited.
The Murrays are seeking more than $1 million in damages in the lawsuit, now in a Tarrant County district court. Their attorneys would not make family members available for interviews.
Matthew Eagleston, president and CEO of Fairway Resources, declined to comment, citing company policy. Fairway’s attorneys did not respond to interview requests.
In a January court filing, four experts hired by the Murrays' attorneys said the wayward methane — along with chemicals from drilling mud — escaped a poorly-sealed Fairway gas well and meandered through underground fractures into the Murrays’ pump house.
The company drilled its JT Cook #2 well in 2013, and a month later the Singletons, who live a quarter mile down the road from the Murrays and have joined them in the lawsuit, told the Railroad Commission their faucets were spouting cloudy water. The explosion at the Murrays' property happened 10 months after Fairway drilled the gas well, which sits less than 900 feet from the Singletons' water well and roughly 2,000 from the Murrays' pump house.
An EnergyWire investigation published in June first highlighted gaps in the Railroad Commission’s probe, and raised questions about how closely the agency scrutinized the Singletons' initial complaints. Railroad Commission inspectors at the time quickly ruled out energy production as a factor in the Singletons' water problems, but testing from other agencies contradicted the commission’s findings.
Christopher Hamilton, the Murrays' attorney, acknowledges the difficulty of proving that oil and gas activities — let alone a specific well — polluted a water well hundreds of feet away. But he views this case, expected to go to trial in October, as “open-and-shut.”
“It’s really incontrovertible,” Hamilton said of the evidence he’s collected. “Sometimes the science just overwhelms.”
His hired experts include: Thomas Darrah, a geochemist at Ohio State University; Franklin Schwartz, an Ohio State University hydrologist; Zacariah Hildenbrand, chief scientific officer at Inform Environmental; and Anthony Ingraffea, a civil engineering professor at a Cornell University with expertise in hydraulic fracturing.
Ingraffea wrote of at least three likely pathways for gas to escape Fairway’s well, which he said was constructed with “bare-bones” protections and operated carelessly. The well also violated commission standards, Ingraffea wrote, notably because it lacked a Bradenhead gauge, a device that could monitor pressure and help detect leaks.
Darrah, who compared gases found in local water wells to Fairway’s gas, concluded: “The JT Cook #2 oil and gas well displays a geochemical match to samples of groundwater in the Singleton's and Murray's water wells in all of the measured data.”
Hildenbrand's analysis linked a drilling mud additive found in the Murrays' water — called Chem Seal — to Fairway's drilling.
And Schwartz found fault with a Railroad Commission analysis that ruled out the Barnett Shale as a source for the Murrays' methane and said it wasn't clear whether the gas could have escaped from a shallower rock formation. The commission's experts, Schwartz said, failed to account for “physical, chemical and isotopic processes” that alter gas underground.
The Commission declined to answer specific questions about its investigation into the explosion.
“As with any incident, our technical experts base their work on the appropriate science and data necessary to complete a thorough and comprehensive investigation,” Nye said.
Rebecca Norris, who lives just west of the Murrays, doesn’t expect the commission to do much of anything.
“Oh yeah, right,” the 66-year-old retiree responded after a reporter told her that the commission was still investigating.
In September 2015, the Tribune reported that Norris, who said can see a handful of gas wells from her bedroom window, never heard back after telling the commission that her water was turning everything — the sinks, the tub — orange. Nye promised at the time to find out why her agency never followed up.
Eighteen months later, Norris said orange “crud” still settles around the bottom of drinking glasses. She said she's the only one in her house who can stomach the water, and her grown daughter and son “won’t even go near it,” when they visit. “They say it tastes terrible,” Norris said.
Norris said the Railroad Commission still hasn’t called. Nye said this week she was looking into it.
“I feel like they’re not doing their job,” Norris said. “You think: ‘Why are they not following through on what they said they’d do?’"
- The explosion of a Palo Pinto County's water well could reboot an emotional debate about whether years of frenzied drilling in one of the country’s largest gas fields has put groundwater at risk.
Texas is among several states grappling with a surge of abandoned drilling sites and dwindling funds to clean them up.
Texas regulators have allowed energy companies in recent years to inject toxic materials into at least a “handful” of underground sources of drinking water, records show.


- Duration: 15 Minutes (approx.)
- Location: Crafers, South Australia
- Product code: A100136001
All of the birds in our Cockatoo Aviary are rescued or rehabilitated animals who have bonded closely with humans, and therefore cannot be released back into the wild. By providing up-close experiences, these birds will act as ambassadors for their species, educating guests about the plight of these birds in the wild, the issues around human contact, and the difficulties concerning captive raising of birds that can live for 50 years or more.
- Come inside our Cockatoo Aviary and embark on a very memorable experience with our resident cockatoos, as they engage with you.
- These birds have either been rescued or hand-raised, and have an affinity with humans. We are keen to share their stories with you, and offer you the chance to get up-close with these beautiful birds and get to know them better.
- Under the supervision of one of our experienced keepers, there is a high likelihood that our birds will fly and land on you, spending time on your arms and shoulders while also feeding from your hand. There will be plenty of opportunity for you to take photos on your own device.
- Through demonstration, you will explore the different adaptations and feeding behaviours of the various species. Learn about their conservation status, their life span, and how we can create habitat for our magnificent parrots by protecting and planting natural food sources.
- Your participation in this experience helps us to save these magnificent birds. For every Cockatoo Experience ticket sold, Cleland Wildlife Park volunteers will propagate and plant a habitat or food plant for these species, helping to conserve wild populations into the future.
Age: 6 years and over. Children must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Time: 11:00am (guests to meet at Information Booth 5 minutes prior)
Number: 1 to 4 guests
Duration: 15 minutes
Cost: $17.00 per person (please note price increase to $17.50 per person from
To avoid the disappointment of missing out, please book online to secure your spot, prior to visiting the park.
Available as a Gift Voucher


People In Action has received a $250 Garden Grant Award from the Food Bank of Central New York to plant a vegetable garden in Springfield Gardens in DeWitt
The grant includes $250 worth of seeds, soil, compost, soil testing, and a raised cedar bed.
Robin Neal, community food security coordinator, took soil samples, installed the raised bed, and showed members how to plant the garden. The garden was planted May 26 on the north side of the David J. Klim Recreation and Education Center. Members and families will provide periodic maintenance and harvesting.
Food grown will be served in the People In Action programs, and any excess food will go to the food pantry in Springfield Gardens. PIA is a community enrichment program addressing the needs of Springfield Garden Apartments residents. It is operated by the town of DeWitt’s Parks & Recreation Department.


Region preparing water systems for climate change challenges2 min readReading Time: 2 minutes
By Scott Cressman
Our community needs clean drinking water and reliable wastewater treatment, but a changing climate will create new challenges for those critical services. The Region is working now to prepare for those challenges.
Hotter temperatures, more intense rain, less snow and higher winds are a few of the changes projected for our area in the coming decades. The Region’s Water Services division is analyzing those impacts now, so we can prepare our systems.
“We’re asking ‘how is the climate changing and what are we doing about it?’” explained Kaoru Yajima, senior engineer with Water Services.
Region staff are using predictions from the University of Waterloo’s Climate Institute that show our local weather getting warmer, wetter and more extreme in the coming decades.
“We need to be ready for what the climate change experts are predicting, to ensure we have reliable water and wastewater services we can all count on,” Yajima said.
Climate change considerations can influence how Water Services builds new infrastructure and operates its facilities. With good monitoring and planning, we can prepare for changes we’ve never seen before. Ways we are adapting now include:
- Building new infrastructure above the flood line to be ready for more flooding
- Adopting strategies to manage peak flows in our wastewater treatment plants due to increased rainfall
- Proactive sewer pipe inspections and repairs to stop leaks due to increased rainfall
These are examples of an Adaptation approach. Another approach is Mitigation, which means reducing the greenhouse gases we release into the atmosphere. Water Services is doing this, too. In the last few years, we’ve reduced our carbon footprint by upgrading our wastewater treatment facilities to capture biogas and use it to power our facilities. Another new cutting-edge technology in wastewater plants decreases our energy and physical footprint.
Water conservation is also a key to keeping our system sustainable. Everyone can do their part to use water wisely and efficiently! High water demand means the Region must build expensive new infrastructure, and use more energy to clean and pump that water.
Climate change is a global challenge with local impacts. The Region is taking steps to understand how changing weather will impact our critical water services. And we are taking action now to be ready.
Sidebar or footer: In June 2021, the Region of Waterloo Regional Council endorsed the TransformWR strategy, a region-wide climate action mitigation plan, aimed at reducing GHG emissions.


Washington state releases 2023 salmon return estimates
The U.S. state of Washington released preliminary estimates for salmon returns to its waters in 2023, with many chinook and coho runs expected to be better than 2022 in Puget Sound, the Columbia River, and Washington’s coastal areas.
Coho returns to Puget Sound and surrounding rivers are forecast to be up in 2023 to around 760,000 wild and hatchery coho, above the 10-year average and above the 2022 result of 666,648 returning coho, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. The forecast for Puget Sound chinook calls for the return of around 259,000 fish in 2023, compared to 250,440 in 2022. The return of hatchery chinook is expected to add around 10,000 fish to the total.
The forecasts are based on the latest scientific modeling and a variety of data including environmental indicators such as ocean conditions, numbers of juvenile salmon that migrated to marine waters, and numbers of adult salmon that returned in past years. WDFW Intergovernmental Salmon Manager Kyle Adicks said higher year-over-year estimates are being welcomed by conservationists, anglers, and Indigenous groups, but said the state’s salmon fisheries are still facing difficulties.
“The outlook for Puget Sound Chinook is pretty similar to last year, meaning that we are still far from here we’d like to be in terms of recovery,” Adicks said.
In 2022, WDFW and tribal co-managers submitted a 10-year Puget Sound Chinook Harvest Management Plan to provide long-term Endangered Species Act coverage for Puget Sound fisheries. In March 2023, NOAA said the submitted plan was sufficient to move forward with formal review.
Separately, the odd-numbered year signifies a return of pink salmon to Puget Sound in 2023, with this year’s estimate of 3.95 million fish topping the total of 3.77 million pinks that returned in 2021.
Returns are expected to be up relative to last year’s forecasts for most Puget Sound rivers, with the notable exception of the Skagit River in North Puget Sound, where this year’s forecast is down considerably from 2022 and will require more restrictive fishery measures to meet conservation objectives, Adicks said.
In the Upper Columbia River, around 84,800 summer chinook are forecasted to return in 2023, representing about 120 percent of the 10-year average return and up from 2022’s 78,500 fish. The Columbia River’s upper river fall chinook run should see about 272,400 fish return, an increase from the 254,880 that returned in 2022, while lower-river hatchery chinook, or “tules,” should number 136,100 fish, below last year’s record return of 258,300 fish but still at 149 percent of the 10-year average. The rivers overall chinook returns are expected to be on par with recent three-year returns.
“We’re considering several options to improve the predictability of fall chinook fisheries and limit the in-season closures we've seen in the past several years,” WDFW Columbia River Fisheries Manager Ryan Lothrop said. “We’ll be leaning heavily on public input to help determine what anglers would like to see in 2023.”
Forecasts for Columbia River coho prior to fisheries occurring for the ocean and Columbia River are expected reach just over 886,000 coho in 2023, nearly double the 10-year average and an increase from the 2022 abundance of 685,000 coho. according to WDFW. And 234,500 sockeye are predicted to return to the Columbia in 2023, well below the actual return of nearly 665,000 fish. The endangered Snake River sockeye run is forecast to increase slightly to 2,600, compared to the 2022 return of 2,329 fish, according to WDFW.
Washington coast coho returns should surpass 519,000, up from the forecast of 454,693 fish a year ago. Coho returning to Willapa Bay and Grays Harbor are expected to be up overall this year, while the number of natural-origin Grays Harbor coho is expected to be very similar to 2022 returns, according to WDFW.
Washington state, tribal, and federal fishery managers are currently with the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) through 10 March to develop options for the year's commercial and recreational ocean chinook and coho salmon fisheries.
Photo courtesy of Bill Perry/Shutterstock


Moisture improved last week across Bangladesh and northeast India as moderate to heavy rains pounded the area. Those rains extended southward into Burma. The rest of southeast Asia had seasonable precipitation as coastal parts of China had positive rainfall anomalies. Seasonal dryness continues across most of the Middle East
Further to the southeast, rainfall has been seasonable from Thailand to Vietnam and out over Indonesia. No unusually heavy downpours, nor unusually low precipitation totals. Meanwhile in China, rainfall has been unusually heavy along the coast, including eastern parts of southern China, where rainfall is still needed to break the drought. Interior areas of southern China were not as fortunate with dry weather remaining firmly in place from Tibet eastward south of the Yangtze River.


Strawberries, Spinach Top 'Dirty Dozen' List of Pesticide-Contaminated Produce
Which conventionally-grown fruits and vegetables in the U.S. are most contaminated with pesticides? That's the question that the Environmental Working Group answers every year with its "Dirty Dozen" list of produce with the highest concentration of pesticides after being washed or peeled.
This year's surprise? Kale ranked number three, behind strawberries and spinach. More than 92 percent of conventionally kale samples had residue from two or more pesticides, according to U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) tests. The last year that the USDA tested kale was in 2009, when it ranked eighth.
"We were surprised kale had so many pesticides on it, but the test results were unequivocal," EWG toxicologist Alexis Temkin, Ph.D. said in a statement announcing the new list Wednesday. "Fruits and vegetables are an important part of everyone's diet, and when it comes to some conventionally grown produce items, such as kale, choosing organic may be a better option."
EWG’s 2019 Shopper’s Guide to Pesticides in Produce™ is finally here, and you may be shocked at which healthy favor… https://t.co/oRyoXF1Tqw— EWG (@EWG)1553086842.0
The other items on the list were:
The "Dirty Dozen" is part of the EWG's annual "Shopper's Guide to Pesticides in Produce," which also includes a "Clean Fifteen" list of the produce with the least amount of pesticide residue. Topping that list were avocados, sweet corn and pineapples.
The lists are based on more than 40,900 fruit and vegetable samples tested by the USDA and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Overall, pesticides were found on nearly 70 percent of non-organic produce sold in the U.S., according to EWG. One of the pesticides found was Dacthal, which was found on nearly 60 percent of kale samples. It has been found by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to possibly cause cancer in humans and has been banned from being used on crops in the EU since 2009. Another chemical found on apples, diphenylamine, has also been banned in the EU over cancer concerns.
Apples are back near the top of the #DirtyDozen™ list. What keeps them in that position? A chemical called dipheny… https://t.co/uQL9AgtnpB— EWG (@EWG)1553119207.0
Exposure to pesticides is especially dangerous for young children, EWG noted, since they are still developing. The American Academy of Pediatrics has noted there are reasons to be worried about pesticide exposure in young children, especially before birth, since exposure may lead to developmental and behavioral issues, CNN reported.
"Even low levels of pesticide exposure can be harmful to children," pediatrician Dr. Philip Landrigan said in the EWG statement. "When possible, parents and caregivers should take steps to lower children's exposures to pesticides while still feeding them diets rich in healthy fruits and vegetables."
However, Alliance for Food and Farming Executive Director Teresa Thorne told CNN that consumers shouldn't be afraid to buy food on the list, pointing to one study that criticized EWG's list and had found that eating organic did not reduce risk.
"That's largely because residues are so low, if present at all," she said.
However, New York University Medical School environmental medicine specialist Leonardo Trasande told The Guardian that the list was "widely respected' and was a useful guide for those wanting to know which fruits and vegetables to buy organic.
If buying organic is not affordable or possible, though, EWG still advises consumers to eat their veggies.
"The health benefits of a diet rich in fruits and vegetables outweigh the risks of pesticide exposure," EWG research analyst Carla Burns said.
What All Parents Need to Know About Pesticides in Produce https://t.co/JtqHYjlSLe @pesticideaction @bpncamp— EcoWatch (@EcoWatch)1526867104.0
By Lisa Newcomb
Analysis released Thursday of the world's top 10 biggest plastic polluters in 15 countries reveals how major corporations hide behind the veneer of corporate responsibility while actively working to thwart regulatory legislation around the globe.

Out now! 📢 Our ground-breaking new report reveals the hypocrisy of the world’s biggest #plasticpolluters, who claim… https://t.co/TWutruUlqA
 — Changing Markets Foundation (@Changing Markets Foundation)1600326412.0

DELAY, DISTRACT and DERAIL: 3 tactics that help Big Plastic fight plastic legislation behind the scenes across the… https://t.co/f29Pc86aMj
 — GAIA (@GAIA)1600326036.0

Amount of federal government subsidies given to the fossil fuel industry every year: $15 billion. The amount it sh… https://t.co/NRWQWRiw5f
 — Bernie Sanders (@Bernie Sanders)1600284448.0

Urbanic urged lawmakers to act to protect the planet.

"The voluntary initiatives and commitments by the industry have failed," she said in a statement. "Policymakers should look past the industry smokescreen and adopt proven, progressive legislation globally to create the systemic change that this crisis so urgently needs."

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EcoWatch Daily Newsletter
The secretive blueprints for two of the leading vaccine candidates for the coronavirus were released Thursday. Pfizer and Moderna became the first two companies among the nine leading vaccine candidates to share their study designs, hoping that the disclosures will create trust and clarity for the public, as The New York Times reported.
- Tapes Show Trump Knew Coronavirus Was Deadly While ... ›
- U.S. Sits out as World Leaders Pledge $8 Billion to Find a COVID-19 ... ›
- White House Ordered Coronavirus Meetings Be Classified - EcoWatch ›
- COVID-19 Vaccine Trial Put on Hold Over Safety Concerns ... ›
- Drugs Touted by Trump for COVID-19 Increase Heart Risks, Studies ... ›
New Zealand could be the first country in the world to require its major financial institutions to report on the risks posed by the climate crisis.
Eco-friendly outdoor brand Patagonia has a colorful and timely message stitched into the tags of its latest line of shorts. "VOTE THE A**HOLES," it reads.
- 'Go Out and Vote' Patagonia Endorses Candidates for First Time in ... ›
- Tesla, Patagonia Join Growing Resistance Against Trump - EcoWatch ›
This year, the UK National James Dyson Award went to a team of student designers who want to reduce the environmental impact of car tires.
- Humans Eat More Than 100 Plastic Fibers With Each Meal - EcoWatch ›
- Microplastics Are Raining Down on Cities - EcoWatch ›
- Microplastics Are Wafting in on the Sea Breeze - EcoWatch ›


Grizzly bears have been shown to be particularly effective predators of moose calves from birth to about 2 months of age and often kill adult moose in the spring.
Do bears kill bull moose?
Do bears hunt bull moose? In most areas, bears are the major predator on moose calves. … In these areas, black bears killed about 40% of all moose calves that were born. Most predation was by adult males.
Can a grizzly take down a bull moose?
In this case the bear’s reach might exceed his grasp – a bull moose like this big guy can weight up to 1500 lbs, while a grizzly bear boar only reaches about 600 pounds, roughly a third of the moose’s weight. That’s not to say that grizzly bears can’t take down moose – they can and will.
Will bears eat moose?
A bear can hunt down and kill an adult moose. … Black bears are also known to hunt and kill large deer for food. Like the moose, they will feed on the carcass for several days.
Can grizzly bears eat moose?
Deer, elk, moose and bison make up a large portion of the grizzly bear’s meat diet. While they are capable of hunting, they are also opportunistic scavengers who won’t hesitate to munch on carrion left behind from other predators.
Can a black bear kill a moose?
Their diet includes roots, berries, meat, fish, insects, larvae, grass, and other succulent plants. They are able to kill adult deer and other hoofed wildlife but most commonly are only able to kill deer, elk, moose, and other hoofed animals when the prey are very young.
Would a bull kill a bear?
Would a bull kill a bear? With horns the bulls actually were capable of killing the bears, but typically the bears were STILL the victors in these fights, though it wasn’t a 10/10 deal. The fight usually went like this. Bull charges bear, Bear basically takes the full brunt of the attack, latching onto the bull’s head.
What would win polar bear vs grizzly?
Put more bluntly, when polar bears and grizzly bears are both competing for food, its the polar bears that are more likely to walk away from conflict and leave the prize for grizzly bears. The bottom line: in a fight between a polar bear and grizzly bear, the grizzly bear reigns supreme.
Can a bear swipe a moose head off?
The bear then charged the moose, but again the moose did not move. The bear then lumbered over to the moose, and with a powerful swipe of its paw, decapitated the moose. Dr. MacDonaldson later retreived the moose head an autopsy found damage consistent with that of decapitation by impact.
Is a Buffalo bigger than a moose?
Bison are the largest land mammal in North America – bigger than elk, moose, and grizzly bears!
What is the top predator of moose?
The most common predators of the moose are wolves, bears, and humans. Unlike most other deer species, moose do not form herds and are solitary animals, aside from calves who remain with their mother until the cow begins estrus (typically at 18 months after birth of the calf), at which point the cow chases them away.
Do bears eat other bears?
“Grizzly bears are opportunistic hunters,” he said. “They will take advantage of any food source that presents itself.” Bears eating other bears isn’t entirely new—polar bears will eat each other, especially each others’ young.
Do black bears eat moose calves?
Black bears will feed on clovers, dandelions, catkins, and grasses. For protein, they might eat deer fawns or moose calves. Throughout the summer, various berries and soft fruits become available.


Hurricane Season: Water Vapor and SST - 2017
DetailsPermalink to Details
- Added to the Catalog
- Available for
- Air: Tropical Cyclones, Weather
- Water: Tropical Cyclones
- Sea Surface Temperature
- Severe Weather
- Tropical Cyclones
- Water Vapor
DescriptionPermalink to Description
After a long lull in major hurricanes striking the U.S. (2005 - 2017), the 2017 season was an extremely destructive season, featuring 17 named storms in just the Atlantic Ocean, tying it with 1936 as the fifth-most active season since records began in 1851. All ten of the Atlantic hurricanes occurred in a row, the greatest number of consecutive hurricanes in the satellite era. In addition, it is by far the costliest season on record, with a preliminary total of over $368.66 billion (USD) in damages, which is more than double the cost of 2005’s total, and nearly all of which was due to three of the season's major hurricanes — Harvey, Irma, and Maria. All three occurred within one month in August - September, sending disaster aide efforts reeling and calling on volunteers for help.
This dataset names both atlantic and pacific hurricanes in 2017 in the labels of the dataset. The record-breaking atlantic hurricanes in 2017 included Harvey, Irma, Maria, and Ophelia. Hurricane Harvey, was an extremely destructive Atlantic hurricane which became the first major hurricane to make landfall in the U.S. since Wilma in 2005. In a four-day period, many areas of eastern Texas received over 40 inches of rain as the system meandered along the gulf coast causing catastrophic flooding. With a record of 51.88 inches, Harvey is the wettest tropical hurricane on record in the contiguous U.S. The resulting floods inundated hundreds of thousands of homes, displaced more than 30,000 people, and prompted more than 17,000 rescues.
Hurricane Irma , the strongest tropical storm ever observed in terms of wind speed with 36 hours of sustained category 5 185 mph winds, struck the Florida Keys and Florida's Gulf Coast in early September. The storm right behind it, Hurricane Maria, was the most intense tropical cyclone to strike the U.S. territories in recorded history. Maria caused so much damage in Puerto Rico, many Puerto Ricans were still without power months later.
Hurricane Ophelia became the easternmost category 3 storm in recorded history and dissipated into an extra-tropical cyclone that wreaked windy havoc on Ireland and Great Britain.
This dataset is a water vapor satellite image with sea surface temperatures below it available from July 7, 2017 through October 16, 2017. Because water vapor emits radiation, satellites can be set to detect water vapor in the atmosphere. All clouds contain water vapor, so when the satellite detects an area with a high concentration of water vapor, it is detecting a cloud. The clouds in hurricanes are easy to detect because they are well formed and contain an excess of water vapor. The shading of the ocean indicates the temperature; the orange and red areas are the warmest, and the blue areas are the coolest. One reason the unusually powerful hurricane season of 2017 was the above average temperature of the oceans.
Notable FeaturesPermalink to Notable Features
- 2017 was the most costly hurricane season on record and tied for fifth as the most active season since records began in 1851.
- Hurricane Harvey set a record for wettest tropical hurricane in the contiguous U.S. by depositing 51.88 inches near Houston, TX.
- Hurricane Irma had the highest sustained winds of 185 mph for the longest period of time 37 hours of any hurricane on record and caused a lot of damage in the Caribbean and Florida Keys.
- Hurricane Maria was the most intense cyclone to strike the U.S. territories in recorded history and caused catastrophic damage in Puerto Rico.
- Hurricane Ophelia was the strongest easternmost storm in recorded history and it's extra-tropical cyclone caused very high winds in Ireland and Great Britain.
Data SourcePermalink to Data Source
MTSAT, Himawari 8, GOES, NOAA Coral Reef Watch, NOAA NESDIS


For decades, the world has looked to nations in the Middle East and Northern Africa (MENA) to fulfil the need for petroleum based power. The area’s abundance of oil reserves has made it a global hot spot for the oil industry. But, as nations turn their attention away from fossil fuels, might we instead begin to look toward MENA for renewable sources of power, such as solar energy?
Historically, this area of the world fell far behind in terms of green energy production. But in recent years, MENA countries have ramped up their solar production efforts, seeking to catch-up to the rest of the world, offset their own oil-based energy consumption, and perhaps become a net supplier of solar power. Let’s examine why!
The countries of MENA are perfect for the generation of solar energy. An abundance of direct sunlight, coupled with open desert space create the ideal setting for vast solar farms. These new facilities could be capable of providing a sizable percentage of electric aid to a region whose reliance on oil burning power generation might someday cut into their export efforts and destabilize economies.
Deserts have often been looked to for solar efforts. Their ample undeveloped land allows for large-scale production, capable of producing large amounts of power and transporting it via a series of high voltage direct current transmission cables to inhabited areas.
The other factor making desert locales ideal for solar is the abundance of sunshine glaring down on an unshaded surface. German Physicist Gerhard Knies surmised that the Sahara Desert receives enough energy in a few hours to power the entire planet for a year.
Solar power system in Algeria
Declining Panel Prices
The price of solar panels has been falling at a rapid rate for years. When solar panels first hit the market in 1977, they came at a cost of $76.67 per Watt. This price continued to fall annually, leading to 2018 where recent advancements in India, coupled with a low labor cost, has given the world solar panels priced at just $0.65 per Watt.
As prices continue to fall through 2018, the market is ripe for an increase in solar production. The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in the United Arab Emirates was constructed in 2013 with a goal of producing a 3,000 Megawatt output by 2028. With 1977 pricing, this would have come at a cost of over $230 billion. In 2018, that same facility would cost $1.95 billion. It has never been more cost effective to invest in solar power, and MENA countries have figured that out (more on solar costs at PowerScout.com).
Importers Become Exporters
When you look at wealthy countries such as Jordan and Morocco, the overwhelming majority of their energy is imported from foreign nations. Morocco imports up to 90% of its energy, and Jordan imports 95%, leaving both of these kingdoms vulnerable to the whims of foreigners.
Jordan has encountered difficulty with this concept in the past. In 2011 and 2012, Jordan saw a complete depletion in its energy reserves following a disruption in natural gas supplies from Egypt. Then, in 2013, the kingdom suffered once more when oil imports from Iraq were interrupted.
Both of these nations have made sizable efforts to increase their solar power generation in hopes of breaking their reliance on outside sources.
In Morocco, this concept is being taken a step further. By creating some of the world’s largest solar plants, the kingdom is seeking to have 50% of its power come from renewables by 2025. Roughly one third of this power would be generated by solar. Morocco then seeks to push its efforts even further, reversing its fortunes completely by becoming an electricity exporter.
Solar plant in Morocco
Save on Oil Consumption
Saudi Arabia has become the definition of fossil fuel waste over the years. The country produces its energy through a process of burning oil. Roughly one quarter of the oil they produce is burned for local power. That consumption continues to rise by 7 percent each year, which is nearly three times the rate of population growth. The Saudi government controls all oil sales and power generation. As such, prices are as low as $0.50 per gallon of gasoline and $0.01 per kWh in electricity. The affordability of these resources have led to Saudi Arabia becoming the world’s sixth largest consumer of oil, with a population of only 30 million people.
Saudi officials do not see solar as a way to end our reliance on fossil fuels or offset global warming. Rather, it is seen as an investment which will keep their oil exports from drying up. At their current rate of consumption, Saudi Arabia’s local oil needs could begin to cut into their exports by 2021. By relying on solar to offset that increase, the government maintains its export levels and preserves its economy.
Power the World
When Knies first theorized that the Sahara Desert could be the key to renewable global power in 1986, a series of plans called Desertec were put in motion. Desertec seeks to build large scale solar facilities throughout the Sahara, which would supply affordable power to the entire world.
The sites for these facilities are mostly undeveloped desert land. With the cost of this project reportedly estimated at half a trillion dollars, nations of Northern Africa would stand to profit greatly by leasing out land that is useless to them otherwise.
It stands to reason that, in a world seeking to use renewable power to break its reliance on fossil fuels, the countries who benefit most from that reliance will turn their attention to renewable energy efforts, both to serve their own people, and protect their economies.


If you’re an aquarium enthusiast, you may have come across the fascinating Amano shrimp, also known as the Caridina multidentata. These adorable little creatures are not only aesthetically pleasing to watch but also serve as beneficial members of an aquatic ecosystem.
One common question that arises when keeping Amano shrimp is, “What do they eat?” In this article, we will explore the dietary preferences of Amano shrimp and provide you with all the information you need to keep them healthy and happy.
Before we dive into the specifics, let’s quickly summarize the key points about what Amano shrimp eat:
|Amano shrimp are primarily scavengers, feeding on algae, detritus, and biofilm in their habitat.
|Supplement their diet with high-quality shrimp pellets or flakes.
|Ensure a varied diet by providing blanched vegetables like zucchini and spinach.
|Avoid overfeeding to maintain water quality and prevent obesity.
Amano Shrimp Diet in the Wild
Amano shrimp are native to freshwater rivers and streams in Japan. In their natural habitat, they predominantly feed on various types of algae, including green algae, diatoms, and brush algae. They are excellent scavengers and also have a voracious appetite for detritus and biofilm, which are organic matter and bacteria that accumulate on surfaces.
Amano Shrimp Diet in Captivity
When it comes to keeping these shrimp in an aquarium, replicating their natural diet is essential for their well-being. In a controlled environment, Amano shrimp still enjoy feasting on algae, so it’s essential to provide them with sufficient algae growth in their tank.
This can be achieved by allowing algae to grow naturally or by introducing algae wafers or algae-based food pellets. Amano shrimp pellets or flakes can easily be found at most pet stores and are specifically formulated to meet their nutritional needs.
While algae should make up a significant portion of their diet, it’s also crucial to provide some variety. Amano shrimp will relish blanched vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, and kale. These veggies not only provide essential nutrients but also simulate their natural foraging behavior.
When feeding vegetables, ensure they are thoroughly blanched to make them soft and easily digestible for the shrimp.
Maintaining a Balanced Diet
Although Amano shrimp have hearty appetites, it’s essential to avoid overfeeding them. Overfeeding can lead to water quality issues and contribute to obesity in shrimp, affecting their overall health. It’s recommended to only provide as much food as the shrimp can consume within a few hours. Uneaten food should be removed promptly to prevent it from decaying in the tank.
To maintain water quality and the well-being of the shrimp, regular water changes are necessary. This helps to remove excess nutrients and waste that can accumulate in the tank. A clean and well-maintained environment will help keep your Amano shrimp happy and satisfied.
In conclusion, Amano shrimp are easy to feed as long as their dietary requirements are met. They are primarily scavengers that enjoy a diet rich in algae, detritus, and biofilm. By providing a varied diet that includes algae-based food, blanched vegetables, and practicing moderation, you can ensure your Amano shrimp stay healthy and thrive in their aquarium.
Hi, I’m Lila Hart, and I’m just as fish-obsessed as they come! I’ve been enamored with aquatic life since I was a little kid. Now, I’m a marine biologist with over 3 years of hands-on experience in the world of pet fish.
I’ve learned the ropes of fishkeeping through trial and error, and I’m excited to share my knowledge with you. My mission is to help you create a thriving aquatic paradise for your finned companions. Together, we’ll explore the fascinating underwater world of pet fish!


First ever in the Philippines: CSPC installed with P25M 240Kw solar power system
By Jason B. Neola NABUA, Camarines Sur --- For the next 22 years, the Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges (CSPC) here will start consuming free electricity. This, after the government learning institution was installed with 240Kw solar power system, an integral part of its administration’s vision of providing its entire campus with clean and renewable power supply 24/7. “Here on, CSPC will be spared from the annoying power interruptions or brown outs that torment the community more so during summer time. After 8 years of paying the capital cost, the CSPC will start consuming free electricity for the next 17 to 22 years,” says Engr. Bernardo Fabula, president and chief executive officer of Equator Energy Corporation, the project contractor. The energy firm, which is setting the trail to become the Philippine’s largest solar and wind energy provider, delivers cheaper and cleaner source of energy to Filipinos. Fabula described the hybrid 240Kw solar power system as the biggest and the first in the country to be installed in a government learning institution. “The EEC, three months after it started the CSPC solar project, was commissioned by Western Mindanao State University in Zamboanga Del Norte to install another hybrid solar system in its campus. The undertaking, once completed, will be the second in the Philippines,” he said. The formal commissioning and turn-over ceremony of the power facility at the CSPC was held last Saturday, April 14, this year. In her acceptance speech, CSPC President Dulce Atian conveyed her utmost gratitude to everyone who became involved in making the project possible. “The solar power system embraces our eco-friendly mission as a green institution having been the recipient of Saringaya Award in 2014, 2016 and 2017 and awarded second place in 2015 Search for Eco-Friendly Schools organized by regional office of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), she said. Talking about CSPC’s environmental achievements that helped to catapult it to the DENR’s hall of fame, Atian said: “the school’s solar power system is another testimony to our continuing and deeper commitment in sustaining our green initiatives and advocacies as we create positive environmental impact and awareness on emerging environmental challenges.” In his turn-over speech, Fabula said that with the savings generated from using the power system, one could expect more development projects and programs to come from the learning institution. He expressed hope that the CSPC experience shall pave the way for the installation of similar facility in other school campuses across the country, and will inspire public and private institutions to do the same. Thru net metering law, Fabula said, the facility will also provide additional power to the local electric cooperative by exporting no less than 100Kw solar capacity of energy to its system. “In general, any additional energy supply from any producer/generator serves as game changer which helps increase the supply of this basic commodity and consequently reduce the price of electricity in the country,” he said. Also known as net energy metering, net metering is a solar incentive that allows one to store energy in the electric grid. When one’s solar panels produce excess power, that energy is sent to the grid and in exchange one can pull from the grid when the system is under-producing like during nighttime. With the right size solar energy system, one can produce enough electricity to match the required electricity for the entire year. However, the amount of electricity that solar panels produce will vary throughout the year. Net metering helps to account for these differences by crediting one for the excess electricity that his/her panels produced so that it can be use later.


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Hot Weather Means Poor Air Quality Predicted for parts of New England Tomorrow and Saturday
Release Date: 07/12/2012
Contact Information: David Deegan, (617) 918-1017
(Boston, Mass. – July 12, 2012) – Unhealthy air quality is predicted for Friday, July 13, in western Connecticut, southwestern through northeastern Massachusetts, southeastern New Hampshire and along the coast of Maine from Kittery through Acadia National Park. Heat-related poor air quality is expected to continue through Saturday, July 14.
“With warmer air and increased humidity over the next few days, our air models are anticipating unhealthy air quality in parts of New England,” said Curt Spalding, regional administrator of EPA’s New England office. “Everybody can help reduce smog-forming emissions by driving less, by using public transportation and by setting air conditioner thermostats a few degrees higher.”
Ground-level ozone forms when volatile organic compounds and oxides of nitrogen (ozone precursors) interact in the presence of strong sunlight. Cars, trucks and buses give off the majority of the pollution that creates ozone. Fossil fuel burning at electric generating units, particularly on hot days, also emits ozone precursors. Gasoline stations, print shops, household products like paints and cleaners, as well as lawn and garden equipment also add significantly to the ozone problem.
Exposure to elevated ozone levels can cause breathing problems, aggravate asthma and other pre-existing lung diseases, and make people more susceptible to respiratory infection. When ozone levels are elevated, people should refrain from strenuous outdoor activity, especially sensitive populations such as children and adults with respiratory problems.
When ozone is forecast to be unhealthy, EPA asks the public to take action. The public can help reduce ozone by:
- Using public transportation, car pooling and/or combining trips;
- Avoiding the use of small gasoline powered engines, such as lawn mowers and tractors, chain saws, power washers, string trimmers and leaf blowers.
The ozone standard is 0.075 parts per million (ppm) on an 8-hour average basis. Air quality alerts are issued when ozone concentrations exceed, or are predicted to exceed, this level. So far this year, there have been 12 days in New England when ozone concentrations have exceeded the standard. (A preliminary list of this summer’s unhealthy readings can be found at https://www.epa.gov/region1/airquality/o3exceed-12.html)
EPA and the New England states provide real-time ozone data and air quality forecasts at www.epa.gov/ne/aqi. This website can also be used to sign up to receive free air quality alerts by e-mail when poor air quality is predicted for a particular area. National real-time air quality data from AirNow is also available on smart phones with free iPhone and Android apps, available for download at http://www.airnow.gov/.
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28 January 2009
The contract includes delivery, installation and commissioning of the wind turbines and a long-term service agreement. The wind turbines will be delivered to two projects in the region of Constanta in Romania during 2009 and 2010.
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The world is in a period where demand for environmentally friendly products is rapidly increasing every day. We all know the impact of disposable plastic cups on the environment. Fortunately, many companies have started to offer sustainable and reusable products to overcome this issue. Leading these products are environmentally friendly cardboard cups. In this article, we will present the best cardboard cups for environmentally friendly drinks, and options in 12 oz, 14 oz, 16 oz sizes.
Environmentally friendly cardboard cups provide a great alternative to disposable plastic cups. Cardboard cups are usually made from recyclable and compostable materials. This significantly reduces their impact on the environment and provides peace of mind to consumers.
Cardboard cups generally come in various sizes such as 12 oz, 14 oz, and 16 oz. These sizes are typically used in places like coffee shops and restaurants and meet various needs. A 12 oz cardboard cup is usually ideal for a small size coffee or tea. 14 oz is perfect for a slightly larger drink, and 16 oz is usually preferred for large size drinks.
In conclusion, environmentally friendly cardboard cups provide a great solution against the negative effects of disposable plastic cups on the environment. Thanks to their options in various sizes, they are suitable for all kinds of drinks. Remember that cardboard cups are environmentally friendly, and choose this sustainable option!
In this period when demand for environmentally friendly products is increasing, the effort of companies to offer sustainable and reusable alternatives is greatly welcomed by consumers. Leading these alternatives are cardboard cups. Being environmentally friendly, recyclable, and compostable makes cardboard cups a perfect choice to replace disposable plastic cups.
Cardboard cups are usually offered in various sizes like 12 oz, 14 oz, and 16 oz. These sizes are generally preferred by businesses like coffee shops, restaurants, and similar establishments to meet different needs. A 12 oz cardboard cup is generally an ideal choice for small size coffee or tea. 14 oz is perfect for a slightly larger drink, maybe a smoothie or fruit juice, and 16 oz is usually preferred for large size drinks, perhaps an iced coffee or a large tea.
Environmentally friendly cardboard cups support efforts to reduce the environmental impact of both businesses and consumers. These options contribute to the goal of creating a more sustainable world and provide consumers with the opportunity to play a proactive role in protecting the environment.
Therefore, environmentally friendly cardboard cups provide a winning solution for both the environment and consumers. Thanks to their options in different sizes, they are suitable for all kinds of drinks. Remember that cardboard cups are environmentally friendly and choose this sustainable option to create a positive impact on your environment!
Environmentally Friendly Features of Cardboard Cups:
Cardboard cups are a more environmentally friendly option compared to plastic cups. The reason for this is that cardboard cups are recyclable. Also, cardboard cups have biodegradable properties. This causes less harm to nature.
12 oz, 14 oz, and 16 oz Cardboard Cups: When Should Each Be Preferred?
Cardboard cups come in different sizes. 12 oz, 14 oz, and 16 oz sizes are among the most frequently preferred ones. 12 oz cardboard cups are suitable for hot drinks of smaller sizes. 14 oz cups are suitable for medium-sized drinks. 16 oz cups are suitable for larger-sized drinks.
Cardboard Cups and Hot Drinks: Things to Consider:
When serving hot drinks in cardboard cups, some features need to be considered. For example, it is important for cardboard cups to keep the heat well. Also, the fact that the cups do not leak is an important factor. Therefore, it is important that cardboard cups are of high quality and have coatings that prevent leakage.
Different Usage Areas of Cardboard Cups
Cardboard cups not only have an application field for hot drinks, but they are also used for cold drinks. Also, some cardboard cups are coated with special coatings and thus can be used to serve foods like ice cream, yogurt. In addition, since some cups can also be designed with special prints, they can be used for special events, parties, weddings, and other organizations.
Cardboard cups are an ideal choice for serving both hot and cold drinks due to their environmentally friendly and practical features. In this article, we touched on the features of cardboard cups in different sizes, points to consider in hot drinks, different application areas, and the best brands. By choosing environmentally friendly and high-quality cardboard cups, we can enjoy our drinks by causing less harm to our environment.
When choosing a cardboard cup, it is necessary not to forget the importance of brands in addition to quality and environmentally friendly features. Accas Cup is a brand that stands out with its environmentally friendly and high-quality cardboard cups.


Sian Dobson Hughes
Area Activator for Stockport. A born and bred Manc and a lover of all things running. From marathons to trails, triathlons to tracks.
Bramhall Parkrun and planting Community Mission
With Bramhall parkrun called off at the last minute due to the ground frost, we took the opportunity to warm up to our planting mission with a brisk walk of the park instead.
And what a walk it was, the perfect combination of frosty sunshine and blues skies!
The Friends of Bramhall Park had a hefty planting session ahead, thanks to kind bulb donations from Notcutts Garden Centre. 17 boxes of beautiful bulbs were donated and needed planting asap as they had already begun sprouting. and so GoodGym Stockport were on hand to get stuck in with such a mamouth task.
After we worked up a sweat for a few hours, we finished off our task with a warming drink at the Stables Kitchen.
We can't wait to see the splashes of spectacular colour that will bloom come Spring
Stockport Rotary Lamp Lighters are looking for a number of volunteers to identify public benches in the Stockport Borough where they could affix a Buddy Bench sign.
A Buddy Bench is a designated bench within a green space where people can sit and encourage communication and conversation with others. It's a great initiative to reduce the effects of loneliness and encourage community cohesion.
On our group run, we set off on foot, (illuminated by headtorches and hi vis gear) to scour and scout the local green spaces in search of benches that could be the perfect locations for people to mingle and chat.
Our aim was to hit (or HIIT) 3 parks near to the centre of Stockport, take photos of any suitable locations and then return to base. The 3 parks: Hollywood (bright lights and city views, just in Stockport not LA) ; Alexandra and Cale Green were our destinations.
We found, we photographed and we conquered the task, all in a respectable 7km.
We're a friendly and social group who combine exercise with helping out in the local community. We meet every week to get active and do a physical task to help the charities and community organisations and projects across the Stockport region.
The Task Leaflets have been created, by Stockport Library Service, to be distributed to specific streets in Brinnington. The leaflets promote the local library and the services that can be accessed through joining Stockport Libraries. This task is to try and engage with local residents and promote the benefits of using their local library. Our group run task is to deliver, on foot or wheels, the leaflets to the local residents.
GoodGym is for everyone. We welcome runners of all abilities. We always have a back-marker so no-one is left behind - we're about achieving something together so you'll always be welcome no matter what your pace is.
Our run will begin at 6:30pm on Tuesday 25th January from Life Leisure Brinnington and we will run a leisurely route to deliver the leaflets.
*Toilet and parking facilities available at Life Leisure Grand Central. Bring a mask for indoor areas. Headtorches and visible running attire advised. Dress appropriately for outdoor conditions. Bring a running rucksack if possible.
The Friends of Bramhall Park have seventeen large and heavy boxes all crammed with bulbs that have kindly been donated and need planting in the park, ready to spring up in Spring.
Since Saturday is also Parkrun day at the park, why not get a swift 5km run in before the mission starts?
Some of the boxes have clearly been out in the rain and lots of bulbs have started growing, so we need to act pretty quickly to get them into the soil. There are a beautiful array of tulips and daffs plus some others, so we have an opportunity to do some mass planting and make a real impact in the Park.
Our mission is to help the Friends to make lighter work of a spectacular task and get a GoodGym Parkrun in too!
There will be complimentary refreshments provided by The Friends after the planting session and The Stables Cafe.
*bring gloves and dress for the weather.
Feel free to join for all or part of the mission. Parkrun begins at 9am and the planting task begins at 10am - meeting Harry and the Friends outside the tutor house.


Earlier this month, a tri-national Mexico-Australia-U.S. WILDCOAST team carried out a Blue Carbon Research Expedition at three sites – Loreto Bay National Park, Bahia Magdalena, and La Paz Bay– in the Baja California peninsula to survey some of the most pristine and biologically important coastal desert mangrove forests in the world and to understand their role in helping to regulate and mitigate climate change.
WILDCOAST was joined by two Australian scientists – Dr. Fernanda Adame, Griffith University and world renowned mangrove expert, Dr. Catherine Lovelock of University of Queensland. Together our tri-national team conducted field surveys and sampling to quantify the amount of carbon dioxide that is stored in the coastal desert mangroves of the region.
“It was so inspiring to be with our team of international mangrove and blue carbon experts from Mexico, Australia and the U.S.,” said Dr. Eduardo Najera, WILDCOAST’s Mexico Director. “It is critical to understand the role of desert mangroves to help implement natural climate solutions that help us to preserve ecosystems that sequester increasing levels of carbon in the atmosphere.”
Researchers call the desert mangroves of the Baja California peninsula “atmospheric bombs” because they absorb more carbon dioxide than any other plant on the planet. Since Bahia Magdalena is the largest coastal wetland in the Baja California peninsula and a critical breeding lagoon for the iconic gray whale, the significance of protecting the region and this globally important site has never been more important.
WILDCOAST’s Blue Carbon aims to protect a total of 71,374 acres of mangroves in northwest Mexico over the next four to five years, and will effectively reduce carbon emissions by 26.7 million tons.
The project will expedite the approval of conservation concessions for 35,796 acres of mangroves and enable WILDCOAST to pursue a carbon credit registration process for financing continued mangrove conservation and management.


Property: How to stay warm and cut winter power costs
RECENT events have demonstrated once again that Eskom and city power supplies are uncertain and unreliable – and shown why SA home owners need to start making even more use of alternative technologies to keep their lights turned on and their homes warm in winter.
So says Gerhard Kotzé, MD of the RealNet estate agency group, who notes, “A further incentive is the rising cost of electricity, with tariff increases of up to 8% coming into effect in most municipalities this month.”
Unfortunately, it is still too expensive for most owners to immediately convert their whole home to a photo-voltaic (solar) power system, but there are many solar-kit options available at a lower cost that will automatically come on and power essentials like fridges, freezers and burglar alarms during load shedding, and that’s a good place to start, he says.
“A generator is an alternative, but these can be problematic in terms of noise, pollution and petrol or diesel consumption.”
It is also worth purchasing a few rechargeable lanterns, he says, to provide light when the power goes off, as well as power banks for your phones and computers. If your garage doors and security gates open with remote controls, you should also check that these have battery back-ups.
“In addition, home owners should now seriously consider installing a solar geyser if they don’t already have one, not only so they can have a hot shower during power cuts but because it will significantly reduce their electricity bills.
“Estimates are that a 2sqm solar geyser cuts household electricity usage by 2000KwH a year – and saves 1000kg of coal and 2600L of water used to generate electricity in the process.”
The next item to change, Kotzé says, is the electric stove, which is also a major consumer of power in most homes.
“A gas stove will heat up instantaneously and will also make you independent of mains electricity for cooking – and boiling the kettle when the power goes off.
“Then, rather than relying on electric heaters for warmth, you might also consider gas heaters, or better still, a gas fireplace in the room where your family spends most of their leisure time.”
“And finally, if you are trying to lower your electricity bill, it is important to remember that many little savings can add up to quite a big total. These include not leaving your electronic devices on standby, turning an electric geyser off during the day and putting an extra blanket or duvet on your bed instead of leaving an electric blanket on all night.” -Issued: RealNet


Beach weddings are great. You can ride a horse or simply walk on the sand or in the water. Choosing to have your wedding on the beach is environmentally friendly in many ways. You won't need to buy lavish decorations because the scene will already be set. In addition to picking up the paper products from your wedding, which hopefully will be biodegradable, encourage guests to pick up litter on other parts of the beach. Formal dress is fine if that is what you want, but for a beach wedding you can choose other attire. Speaking of attire, be sure to choose environmentally friendly clothing or better yet, rent the attire, wedding dress and all. Choosing the have a beach wedding is a great way to save resources since you won't be renting a church or other building that would require lighting. It is also a great way to involve your guests in your environmental beliefs. When planning a beach wedding make sure there is some kind of cover just in case the weather doesn't cooperate and seating for those who might not be able to stand. Sunset weddings are great and if you hold the reception on the beach right afterwards. For the reception all that is needed is some cheese and a little wine. Choose food for the reception that is locally made and organic which will contribute to the environmentally friendly theme. Offer guests wedding favors that you found on the beach ahead of time to remind them of the environmentally friendly focus of your special day.


Wisconsin gets plenty of snow during the winter, and that snow can really take its toll on your yard or garden.
If you’re looking to add variety and unique beauty to your yard without breaking the bank or spending hours on research and care, listed below are some of Wisconsin’s best types of shrubs to choose from.
Meanwhile, if you’re unsure which type of shrub will be best in your climate or area, talk to an arborist or landscaper before buying any shrubs.
They will help you make an informed decision based on your needs, preferences, budget, and other considerations.
To add color to your yard in the spring, use these types of shrubs in Wisconsin, ideally for its winters and springs.
1. Alternateleaf Dogwood
The alternateleaf dogwood is the first on our list of the types of shrubs in Wisconsin. It is a deciduous shrub that grows in the eastern part of North America.
It flowers from early April to late May with white blossoms and goes dormant during the summer. Further, this shrub can grow up to 12 feet in height but generally stays around five feet tall.
The alternate leaf dogwood does well in areas with moist soil and tolerates shade. This makes it an ideal plant for people who don’t have a lot of space or want something low-maintenance.
2. Staghorn Sumac
A genus in the family Rhus, Staghorn Sumac is an evergreen shrub and is the second on our list of the types of shrubs in Wisconsin.
The plant produces a dense growth of branches that are covered with short hairs. It has five-petaled white, red, or yellow flowers and produces a round fruit that measures three inches in diameter.
Moreso, it likes full sun and dry soil and will grow up to five feet in height with a width of up to six feet. The leaves change from green to orange and red during autumn before falling off during winter.
The sumac shrub is native to North America and Europe. The leaves are a deep green color with an orange-red tint in the summer.
This shrub has small clusters of flowers that grow in clusters called panicles from April until June. These flowers give off a sweet smell and are often used as perfume ingredients in their dried form.
The leaves turn red or yellow before they fall off, which adds a stunning splash of color to your garden during the fall months.
The sumac shrub can be grown as either a bush or as a tree but typically will only grow up to 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide.
They do best when planted in full sunlight because they cannot survive in the shade. But they are very tolerant of both dry and wet soil conditions.
Another type of shrub in Wisconsin is the Nannyberry. It is a deciduous shrub with oval-shaped leaves and purple fruit in the fall.
Also, it adapts well to many different landscapes, withstanding heat, cold, drought, and salt. It produces fragrant flowers in the spring before the leaves come out, which are white or pink in color.
The nannyberry can grow up to 18 feet tall with a similar width. Consequently, this makes it an excellent option for large gardens or for those looking for privacy.
5. Roundleaf Dogwood
And now, on our list of the different types of shrubs in Wisconsin, we have the Roundleaf Dogwood. It is a deciduous, flowering tree or shrub that can grow up to 15 feet. It has oval leaves with smooth edges and clusters of white flowers that bloom in early spring.
Plus, you can find this type of shrub in woods, along streams and roadsides, and at the edges of forests. It’s usually found more inland than other types of shrubs because it prefers moist soil.
This shrub is a deciduous plant and blooms in late spring with pink, white, or purple flowers. The leaves are small and oval-shaped.
This bush can grow up to 8 feet tall and wide but will only grow about 3 feet yearly. It does well in moist soil but can also tolerate dry conditions as long as it has access to some water regularly.
The fruit from this bush is edible for humans, though it may be toxic for animals such as cows if they eat too many. Nonetheless, Chokecherry is one of Wisconsin’s most adorable types of shrubs.
7. Black Chokeberry
Like some types of shrubs in Wisconsin, it has round leaves with serrated edges and white flowers that bloom in the spring.
The berries are dark purple when ripe and have a sour taste. This shrub does best in moist, acidic soil and will do well in partial shade or full sun exposure.
Furthermore, you can grow black chokeberry from seed or transplant. Transplanting should be done by early summer if you want the plant to return next year.
However, it can also be done at any time during the growing season if you want it as an annual plant. Transplants should be planted 1 foot apart with 6 feet between rows.
8. Gray Dogwood
Gray Dogwood is one of the types of shrubs in Wisconsin. Gray Dogwood is most often used in gardens for its ability to provide good spring color.
It can be planted as a single tree or as a group. And it provides great year-round interest with its beautiful white flowers and fall color.
One drawback to the Gray Dogwood is that it does not grow well in dry soil. This means if you live in an area with low water content, this may not be the best option for your garden.
However, if you live in an area where there are plenty of rainstorms or when you have access to irrigation systems, this shrub will thrive beautifully.
9. Lilac Bush
The lilac bush is a beautiful, fragrant plant of the types of shrubs in Wisconsin that will add life and color to any garden. It’s a versatile plant that can grow in either sun or shade and be trimmed into any shape you want.
Coupled with that, you can even use it as an informal hedge. Just make sure the roots are well-drained and don’t water them.
10. Downy Arrowwood
Downy Arrowwood (Viburnum trilobum) is a fast-growing, deciduous flowering shrub. It can reach 15 feet in height and width but is often pruned into a bush or hedge.
The Downy Arrowwood has rounded leaves that are dark green on the top and lighter on the underside.
These leaves turn a deep orange-red in autumn before falling off in winter. It produces clusters of white flowers with yellow centers from late spring until early summer.
The Downy Arrowwood is best planted in full sun or partial shade. Also, it does well in moist soils like some other types of shrubs in Wisconsin.
Regarding types of shrubs in Wisconsin that add beauty to any garden, Hydrangeas aren’t left out. They come in many different colors, with pink being the most common color. Moreso, they can grow up to six feet tall and will bloom from July until October.
Azaleas are a type of shrub that can be found in Wisconsin. They bloom in the spring and come in various colors, including red, pink, and purple.
Many people grow them as decoration for their gardens or as part of the foundation planting for their landscaping.
Additionally, they grow best in areas with full sun exposure and moist soil conditions. This plant can be classified as one of the types of easygoing shrubs in Wisconsin.
Spirea, a type of shrub, is a deciduous shrub that produces purple flowers in the summer. It also attracts butterflies and hummingbirds. The foliage is glossy, dark green, and has serrated edges on the leaves.
With that being said, Spirea grows 3-6 feet tall with a spread of 2-3 feet wide. It blooms in late spring or early summer and can be pruned at any time.
However, it is advised not to prune when it’s actively growing to have the best shape for your garden.
Of the different types of shrubs in Wisconsin, Viburnums are a type that can be found in many gardens across the country. This is due, in large part, to their ability to grow in diverse climates and soil conditions.
For example, some types can be quite cold tolerant while others will do better in warmer climates. Also, these plants come in a variety of flower colors.
As a result, they are perfect for those looking for something a little bit more cheerful than your average green shrub.
15. Butterfly Bush
Butterfly bushes are perennial shrubs with the scientific name Buddleia. They thrive in moist, acidic soil and grow in woodland habitats.
The plant flowers in late spring and summer with large clusters of butterfly-shaped flowers that are often white or light purple.
Butterfly bushes come in many varieties, but one popular variety is the common orange butterfly bush (Buddleia davidii). There are many reasons why this plant, out of the different types of shrubs in Wisconsin, can brighten up your garden.
For example, it provides nectar for butterflies and hummingbirds during pollination season and seeds for birds to eat during wintertime.
Butterflies will also flock to these plants. This is because they release sulfur compounds that mimic the smell of rotting fruit which attracts them.
16. Honeysuckle Bush
Honeysuckle bushes are one of the most popular types of shrubs in Wisconsin. They grow quickly and have a beautiful fragrant smell. You will need a sunny location with well-drained soil to plant this type.
Plus, Honeysuckle is not picky about soil pH levels, so if you are having trouble growing other plants in your yard, this might be the right choice for you! Make sure to keep it trimmed regularly, as these bushes can grow up to six feet tall!
Shrubbery with holly can be pruned at any time during the year but after bloom, because it is one of the few types that hold their shape without losing their leaves.
Also, Holly is renowned for its ability to tolerate poor soil conditions and urban environments. In addition, its resistance to pests like termites, aphids, and scale insects makes it one of the best types of shrubs in Wisconsin!
Landscaping your garden is a labor of love, and it can be hard to know where to start. Moreso, with over 5,000 varieties of shrubs available, selecting the best shrubs for your yard in Wisconsin can seem quite daunting.
Luckily, landscapers and gardeners have narrowed their choices to what they consider the most common shrubs grown in the state.
We hope this list of types of shrubs in Wisconsin has been helpful and that you’ll enjoy which type of shrubs you finally decide on!


Chernobyl incident was a catastrophic nuclear accident that occurred on 26th April 1986 at the Chernobyl Nuclear Powerplant in Ukraine . An explosion an fine relaased large quantities of radioactive particles into the atmosphere.During the accident 31 people itself died and long term effects such as cancer are still being investigated.
Nuclear energy should be banned globally, because it is deadly to the environment and in the event of the terrorist attack , it could wipe out an entire region. The enivronmental consequences should destroy waterways, ecosystem, and animal habitats, throughout the country and around the world.
On the other hand, we need not ban nuclear power plants, because nuclear energy is efficient, economical, scalable and clean.With increased pressure on expensive polluting conventional fuel, nuclear energy will play a critical role if global economies are to switch towards cleaner energy generation.
May 26th, 2015
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A global community of nature enthusiasts
photographing and learning about wildlife
Caiman and a Black Mud Turtle, sunning together
Low Lands, Rain Forest Costa Rica
Well it is cool
I like it!
This was in the natural habitat....
They are natural enemies but the needs of sun after several days of rain bring them togheter in the only available place.
Spotted on Apr 17, 2011
Submitted on Apr 17, 2011


Don't miss the latest stories
This New Electricity-Free Cooling System Could Work Even In The Desert
By Alexa Heah, 21 Sep 2021
Image via KAUST
Though the desert, given the amount of sunlight it receives, may seem like a great place to gather solar energy for the planet, such projects are often unattainable due to the lack of infrastructure in the area.
Now, a new system—using only sunlight and saltwater—could be the clean energy alternative that could work even in the depths of sandy landscape.
This project is a brainchild of Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), and makes use of a naturally-occurring phenomenon that causes water to cool rapidly.
How it works: energy is absorbed as salt crystals dissolve within water, meaning that if salt is added to a jug of warm water, the water will cool down quickly as the salt dissolves. The researchers are then replicating this effect on a much larger scale.
According to New Atlas, the team, led by Professor Peng Wang, found that ammonium nitrate worked the best, as it was highly water-soluble, and already available as an inexpensive additive in fertilizer.
The technology could be developed as cooling systems to regulate temperatures in buildings or even to preserve food where there is no electricity.
Even better, the cooling method is “sustainable” too. Once the water is no longer in use, solar heat is used to evaporate the water. The remaining salt crystals can then be collected and reused in the next system.
Could this be the eco-friendly answer for less-developed regions? It certainly looks promising, and if researchers are able to create a machine to recreate the cooling method, it could become a much-needed device in the desert.
[via New Atlas, cover image via KAUST]
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The Lake Simcoe/ South–eastern Georgian Bay Clean-Up Fund Environment Canada: Ontario Regional Director General’s Office
Letter of Intent (recommended, but not mandatory): September 26, 2014
Full Application: October 15, 2014
The call for Letters of Intent is issued to fund collaborative projects with the goal of reducing phosphorous inputs into Lake Simcoe and South-eastern Georgian Bay, improve water quality, and conserve critical aquatic habitat and associated species in these waters. All projects must meet the intent of at least one of the priorities below:
- Research and monitoring to improve environmental information for decision making in South-eastern Georgian Bay and/or Lake Simcoe;
- Conservation (e.g. protection, restoration, creation) of critical aquatic habitats and their associated species populations;
- Reduction of rural and urban non-point source phosphorous / nutrients; and
- Reduction of point source phosphorous / nutrients
- Must be inside the geographic scope (see below);
- Support targeted (e.g., as per existing conservation plans and strategies) aquatic habitat protection, restoration, and creation projects in areas of known water quality problems (e.g., as per watershed report cards, management plans, and studies) and habitat degradation;
- Support community stewardship projects to conserve aquatic habitat;
- Support the implementation of Best Management Practices that reduce urban and/or rural non-point sources of nutrients (e.g. surface runoff reduction, erosion control structures, vegetated buffers, cattle exclusion, alternative watering projects and phosphorous/nutrient management planning and recovery projects), assessment studies, and restoration of aquatic habitat impaired by excess phosphorous;
- Support the promotion of septic system inspections, upgrades and replacements (systems must be 100m or less from a watercourse) in areas of known water quality problems;
- Support the development and implementation of innovative technologies, techniques and demonstration projects that reduce nutrient loading from municipal wastewater and stormwater systems and other point source discharges;
- Support the development of approaches to improve the efficiency and effluent quality of municipal sewage treatment plants (STPs); and communicate findings to decision makers;
- Conduct water quality monitoring to measure phosphorous in the aquatic systems of South-eastern Georgian Bay including nearshore and tributary systems;
- Conduct research and monitoring to assess conditions and causes contributing to increased phosphorous inputs into South-eastern Georgian Bay and nuisance and toxic algae growth to fill information gaps and aid in restoration and protection efforts; and
- Conduct and support other research and monitoring necessary to guide the development and implementation of measures to reduce phosphorous/nutrient inputs and address low oxygen conditions and toxic/nuisance algae growth
The geographic scope of the initiative will expand beyond the Lake Simcoe drainage basin, to include the adjacent drainage basins emptying into south-eastern Georgian Bay, including the watersheds and bays of Nottawasaga Valley, Severn Sound, and the targeted coastal regions west of Highway 400/69 north of Port Severn to the French River. The extension and expansion of the program will reduce phosphorous inputs into Lake Simcoe and South-eastern Georgian Bay, improve water quality, and conserve critical aquatic habitat and associated species in these waters.
- Environmental groups
- Community groups (e.g. youth and seniors groups, community-based associations, service clubs)
- Small and medium sized business (e.g. developers, industries etc.)
- Aboriginal organizations (e.g. First Nations Councils, Métis Associations)
- Conservation Authorities
- Stewardship Networks
- Agriculture Associations
- Non-governmental organizations
- Educational institutions
- Provincial/territorial/municipal governments
For complete details, visit: http://www.ec.gc.ca/eau-water/default.asp?lang=En&n=85C54DAE-1
Request for Proposals: Integrating Management of Sensor Data for a Real Time Decision Making and Response System (Sponsored Research)
Deadline: October 9, 2014
This project is sponsored by the WateReuse Research Foundation’s California Direct Potable Reuse (DPR) Initiative, the Australian Water Recycling Centre of Excellence, and the Water Environment Research Foundation as part of the WateReuse Research Foundation’s Solicited Research Program.
The project objectives include:
- Develop an operational decision support tool that integrates a diverse number of sensors for timely feedback of high priority alerts due to a deviation from defined water quality and operational parameters within the treatment process, which could forewarn of a critical alarm and diversion of water. This tool should be designed to detect variations in system operation as well as early signs of contaminant breakthrough within the treatment train before delivery of the finished drinking water to the distribution system
- Integrate existing sensors into a network as an early warning system that can be applied to any DPR treatment process and provides:
- A sensor network integrated with SCADA, CMMS, and other process control utility
tracking systems to collect, manage, and store multiple data sets of continuously
generated data points from multiple sensors
- A decision support tool to track system performance, and instrumentation functionality
for early detection of treatment system anomalies against preset/defined multiple key quality and treatment process parameters prior to any compromise to the quality of the finished drinking water
- A sensor network integrated with SCADA, CMMS, and other process control utility
- Build on criteria developed in WRRF-13-03 and WRRF-13-13 (research previously supported by the foundation) for decision making based on established critical control points within a DPR treatment process.
- Develop a framework for sensor data integration using an operational decision support tool based on the above criteria. Such control systems are essential to reducing, detecting, and mitigating any weaknesses or lapses in the treatment system’s safety performance prior to delivery of the finished drinking water to the distribution system
For complete information, visit: https://www.watereuse.org/foundation/rfp/14-01
Advance Notice of Request for Proposals – Water Environment Research Foundation (WERF)
The Water Environment Research Foundation anticipates publishing a call for proposals in Fall 2014 for the following projects:
This research seeks to support market diversification by identifying requirements and specifications for high-quality biosolids. Biosolids have been used to successfully recover flood and fire damaged, drought ravaged, and marginal lands as slow release fertilizer and organic matter to help reduce eutrophication in adjacent receiving waters, and/or to help increase use of co-digestion (while complying with issues with the air rules) and/or biosolids with better odor control. Past research in the U.S. has focused on land application of Class B biosolids for agricultural use with very little done to help identify and develop industry tandards/specifications for high-quality biosolids (Class A or even better) and/or to establish better standards for stable, non-odorous biosolids. “High standards” biosolids have done relatively well in a niche marketplace. Some utilities have implemented processes to recover phosphorus from struvite – potentially diverting this from their biosolids product and impacting the nutrient value or helping land application restricted by nutrient loading rates. As utilities prepare for the future – better guidance on manufacturing high-quality, stable biosolids that are fit for specific purposes and markets is needed. This proposed work builds upon decades of land application experience, recent success stories, phosphorus and other resource recovery operations, etc. to help determine the standards and specifications needed by Utilities of the Future to produce high-quality biosolids.
NOTE: WERF plans to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to conduct research for utilities to produce safe, stable, high quality biosolids. Total WERF funding available is $250,000.
Determine State-of-the-Science, Available Technologies, and Incentives and Barriers for the Recovery of Plasmids and Rare Earth Elements in Wastewater
Effluent from pharmaceutical plants – where the levels would be expected to be higher – might help determine the feasibility of recovering plasmids, and using the recovered material as part of a platform to manufacture and deliver veterinary medicines/pharmaceuticals. Due to concerns about the short supply and large demand for rare earth elements across the globe and concerns about mining of rare earth elements in conflict-ravaged and/or unstable nations in Africa – the market price and availability of rare earth elements has become highly speculative. Scientists are now trying to recycle rare earth elements from wastewater.
The Water Environment Research Foundation (WERF) plans to issue a Request for Proposals (RFP) to conduct research to determine state-of-the-science, available technologies, and incentives and barriers for the recovery of plasmids and rare earth elements in wastewater. Total WERF funding available is $50,000.
For complete information, visit: http://www.werf.org/default.aspx?ignoreredirect=1
Postdoctoral Fellowships Program – Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council
Deadline: October 15, 2014
Value: 40,000 per year for two years (24 months)
The Postdoctoral Fellowships Program provides support to a core of the most promising researchers at a pivotal time in their careers. The fellowships are also intended to secure a supply of highly qualified Canadians with leading edge scientific and research skills for Canadian industry, government and universities. NSERC encourages qualified Aboriginal students who are interested in the program to apply.
Applications will be evaluated on criteria in two categories:
- Research ability or potential (70%)
- Communication, interpersonal, and leadership abilities (30%)
To be considered eligible for support, as of the deadline date of the year in which you apply, you must:
- be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada; and
- hold or expect to hold a doctorate in one of the fields of research that NSERC supports
- have completed all requirements of your first doctoral degree no more than two years before the deadline date of the year in which you apply, or by September 1 of the year of the award announcement
- If you have acquired at least six months of full-time relevant work experience in industry or government (experience in a university or its affiliated hospitals, research centres and other laboratories will not be considered) after you received your doctorate, NSERC will extend this eligibility period to three years
- If, beginning within two years of the date of completion of your PhD, you withdraw from the workforce and from active research for maternity leave or to raise a child for at least one year, NSERC will extend this eligibility period to six years
- Other eligibility requirements apply. Please visit the NSERC website for complete details
Eligible fellowship locations:
- Canadian universities;
- provincial research institutions in Canada;
- other appropriate research laboratories in Canada; and
- universities and research centres abroad
NSERC encourages you to undertake research that involves collaboration with other Canadian organizations. The nature of the proposed collaboration must be acceptable to the host institution. Review the NSRC program page for other restrictions.
For complete information, visit: http://www.nserc-crsng.gc.ca/students-etudiants/pd-np/pdf-bp_eng.asp
In addition to the above funding programs, the following are ongoing opportunities:
MITACS Accelerate Internships – Standard
Mitacs-Accelerate is Canada’s premiere research internship program. It connects companies with over 50 research-based universities through graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, who apply their specialized expertise to business research challenges. Interns transfer their skills from theory to real-world application, while the companies gain a competitive advantage by accessing high-quality research expertise.
MITACS Accelerate Clusters
Mitacs-Accelerate clusters are an alternative for larger research projects involving multiple Graduate students and/or Post-doctoral Fellows. Applicants may apply once for an Accelerate Cluster involving a minimum of three interns, at least six 4-month internship segments, and a minimum of one industrial partner.
For more information, please contact Anna Ziolecki or visit the MITACS website.


[Event Recap] Crisis and Disaster Risk Finance (CDRF) – Deep Dive Virtual Session
As part of the Finance, Competitiveness and Innovation (FCI) Climate Change Training - Crisis and Disaster Risk Finance (CDRF) – Deep Dive Session was conducted on June 3, 2021. Martin Luis Alton (Senior Financial Sector Specialist, CDRF, FCI, WBG) kicked off the session with a brief introduction to Disaster Risk Finance (DRF) and Four Core Principles of DRF. The introduction was followed by two interviews with regional colleagues on regional DRF projects focusing on its set-up, implementation, and results. The interviews focused on understanding the scope of DRF projects in the context of climate change and how they are collaborating with the CDRF teams.
- Interview 1: Antoine Bavandi (Senior Financial Sector Specialist, CDRF, FCI, WBG) interviewed Mihasonirina Andrianaivo (Senior Financial Sector Specialist, FCI, WBG) on projects in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
- Interview 2: Hang Thu Vu (Senior Financial Sector Specialist, CDRF, FCI, WBG) interviewed Vidaovanh Phounvixay (Financial Sector Specialist, FCI, WBG) on the Laos Disaster Risk Management Project.
Olivier Mahul (Practice Manager, CDRF, FCI, WBG) presented the virtual event's final thoughts and closing remarks. The webinar was facilitated by Kaavya Krishna (Senior Financial Sector Specialist, CDRF, FCI, WBG).
The World Bank Group, to solidify its commitment towards climate change challenges, has announced in the Climate Change Action Plan 2021-2025, its pledge to fully integrate climate and development to support green, resilient, and inclusive development (GRID). FCI Global Practice within the World Bank Group has an important role in these endeavors and it is critical for all FCI staff to have a good understanding of the climate change agenda and be able to integrate climate considerations into FCI’s advisory and lending operations. As a part of its commitment, a 2-day Climate Change Training for FCI was conducted from June 2, 2021 to June 3, 2021.


Whether it's recyclables that we can use again, yard waste that we can turn into mulch, or items we haul to the landfill, we are always looking for ways to keep the Bluegrass beautiful. Our work is not just about getting rid of things, it's about Lexington's quality of life, its health, and the look of our community.
Waste Management alerts
Sign up for 311 Alerts about waste collection changes due to holidays or weather and special collection events.
The annual task of disposing of falling leaves has already begun.
The event will take place at the Bluegrass Regional Transfer Station, 1505 Old Frankfort Pike.
Fayette County residents may bring up to five boxes or bags of dry material to be shredded at no cost.


Insights from the COLLABAT Webinar Series
The recordings of the mini-series on the future of battery packs for electromobility are now available
In the dynamic landscape of electric mobility, staying abreast of cutting-edge developments is crucial. COLLABAT cluster, a visionary cluster comprising four European Horizon 2020 projects. These projects, recipients of funding in the topic LC-BAT-10-2020, collectively aim to shape the next generation and realization of battery packs for Battery Electric Vehicles (BEV) and Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicles (PHEV).
Unveiling the COLLABAT Cluster:
ALBATROSS – Advanced Light-weight BATteRy systems: Optimized for fast charging, safety, and second-life applications, ALBATROSS sets the stage for batteries that transcend conventional boundaries.
HELIOS – High-pErformance moduLar battery packs: HELIOS focuses on sustainable urban electromobility services, envisioning high-performance modular battery packs that redefine the driving experience.
LIBERTY – LIghtweight Battery System: LIBERTY aspires to extend the range of electric vehicles while enhancing safety through a lightweight battery system.
MARBEL – Manufacturing and assembly of modular and reusable EVbattery: MARBEL takes a leap in environmental-friendly and lightweight mobility, emphasizing modular and reusable battery manufacturing.
COLLABAT Webinar Series: A Knowledge Exchange Platform:
This webinar series serves as a knowledge exchange platform, where experts from ALBATROSS, HELIOS, LIBERTY, and MARBEL unravel the intricacies of their innovative projects. Participants gain insights into advancements in battery technology, sustainable urban mobility, lightweight systems, and manufacturing processes that pave the way for a greener and more efficient electric future.
Watch the webinars now clicking on the following links:


Industry tells EPA: 'Withdraw sulfur rules'
from Environmental Leader
The American Petroleum Institute and American Fuel and Petrochemical Manufacturers have called upon the EPA to withdraw its proposed Tier 3 rule, which would require lower sulfur content in gasoline. API says Tier 3 is a "reckless" and "unnecessary" regulation that won't do much to improve air quality and will impose about $10 billion in new capital costs on refiners, increasing gasoline manufacturing costs by between six and nine cents per gallon.
7701 Las Colinas Blvd., Ste. 800, Irving, TX 75063


Cadillac Fairview unveils low-waste sorting station at CF Lime Ridge
by CM Staff
The sorting station is constructed from 50 per cent recycled materials, including 100 per cent recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastics.
HAMILTON — Cadillac Fairview (CF) is officially launching its first low-waste sorting station in Ontario at CF Lime Ridge, located in the Dining Hall on the lower level. The initiative, in collaboration with Gorrie/Unwasted, is representative of CF’s efforts in trying to transform communities for a brighter, more sustainable future.
“At CF Lime Ridge, we are committed to responsibility, and are passionate about reducing our environmental footprint,” said Andy Traynor, General Manager, CF Lime Ridge. “We all have a collective responsibility to hold ourselves accountable for our decisions. By investing in this type of technology, we are empowering guests to help reduce one of the most challenging waste streams – food waste- and make a positive impact for future generations. We continue to elevate our consumer experience and are excited to be the first Ontario-based CF shopping centre to offer this game-changing recycling service.”
The sorting station is constructed from 50 per cent recycled materials, including 100 per cent recycled high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastics. Guests who have finished their meals can bring a tray to the sorting station where trained staff will properly separate materials, effectively diverting food waste from landfills. The sorting Station is AODA compliant, with a section of the counterspace lowered for ease of access to patrons in wheelchairs.
CF is collaborating with Gorrie/Unwasted to develop the new design materials for the Lime Ridge station.
“As an established community hub, we’re thrilled CF Lime Ridge is engaging in a forward-thinking recycling initiative that actively educates patrons and inspires action that supports the New Plastics Economy,” said Ashley Gorrie, CEO, Gorrie. “The new CF Lime Ridge sorting station is a great example of how we can creatively draw single use plastic away from landfills and oceans and bring them into the manufacturing space to create bold, functionally designed products.”


Swan at Rest
This beautiful swan had found a nice green cool spot to rest and would nibble on the greenery every few moments. It seems to be the lone swan at Sunset Bay at White Rock Lake.
Mute Swan (Cygnus olor)
Mute SwanCygnus olorswanaquatic birdaquaticwater fowllakeWhite Rock Lakedallas texassunset bay


Using All Our Senses
The sensory garden at Merriam Avenue School has been providing students with opportunities to engage their senses and connect with nature.
The emotional benefits of being outdoors can be observed as soon as a student enters the garden. This environment provides a safe and secure feeling coupled with a sense of fun and adventure.
The research and planning that was put into the design of the garden is evident, there is a clear nod to all the senses.
We blended primary colors with the natural hues of bamboo and unfinished wood to create a ‘Zen feel’ with pops of color. The various colors of the plants and flowers provide further aesthetic stimulation.
Mint, rosemary and lavender are growing in several locations giving children the opportunity to touch and smell these fragrant plants. We also included strawberries, cherry tomatoes and basil to encourage children to explore their sense of taste in the garden.
Children enjoy interacting with the tactile sensory board that was installed, they like to touch the various textures. Students can explore the entire garden with their hands from the smooth texture of the river rocks to the cool water splashing down the water feature.
The sound of the wind charms and the water fountain provide a natural musical backdrop for the garden. We have installed several bird feeders to encourage the sound of birds chirping and most recently outdoor Bluetooth speakers that look like rocks have been added to the garden.
To encourage students to truly engage with the garden we placed signs that read:
Name 5 things you can see, 4 things that you can touch, 3 things that you can hear, 2 things that you can smell, 1 things you can taste.
About the Grantee
Merriam Avenue Elementary School is located in Northwest New Jersey. The mission of the Newton Public Schools is to educate the whole child. We believe parents, teachers, support staff and citizen's must partner in order to help children achieve their highest potential. Therefore we organize ourselves as community schools.