Oil Spill
Restore Act can shape future, Bonner says
Thursday, September 27, 2012, 6:56 AM
By Guy Busby Press-Register
FOLEY, Alabama -- The Restore Act can be a key to making south Alabama the
center of a revitalized economic region extending from Panama City, Fla.,
to New Orleans, if leaders can cooperate and plan carefully how to spend
the money, Rep. Jo Bonner said Wednesday.
http://blog.al.com/live/2012/09/restore_act_can_shape_future_b.html
Scientists say BP used courts to attack oil spill research
LA Times
By Monte Morin
Scientists are accusing the BP oil company of using the U.S. courts to
attack their calculations of how much oil leaked into the Gulf of Mexico
during the Deepwater Horizon drilling disaster.
http://www.latimes.com/news/science/sciencenow/la-sci-sn-bp-science-litigation-20120927,0,1504984.story?track=rss
State News
Dredging need continual
Initial Rez project could take 6 years
Clarion Ledger
Residents along the Ross Barnett Reservoir gathered Thursday night to view
plans for clearing out watery debris piling up in their areas, while the
state agency tasked with cleaning the mess informed them the dredging will
become a continual requirement.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120928/NEWS/309280042/Dredging-need-continual?odyssey=mod%7Cnewswell%7Ctext%7CHome%7Cs
District officials, homeowners discuss reservoir runoff issue
Officials say residents will pay for dredging
WAPT
JACKSON, Miss. —
Homeowners on the reservoir said sediment build-up from new development is
preventing them from getting their boats in the water.
http://www.wapt.com/news/central-mississippi/District-officials-homeowners-discuss-reservoir-runoff-issue/-/9156946/16770724/-/1xxwgqz/-/index.html
Dredging the Rez
WJTV
About a hundred residents who live along the Ross Barnett Reservoir are
having problems with silt build-up on the bottom of the lake.
http://www2.wjtv.com/news/2012/sep/27/dredging-rez-ar-4642163/
Sigsby among first to examine Percy Quin Dam during Isaac's fury
Clay County Times Democrat
Thursday, September 27, 2012
A Rector native was on the scene to potentially help crews fight back
against the fury of nature during the recent assault of Hurricane Isaac at
the end of August. Natalie Sigsby, daughter of Steve and Lark Sigsby of
Rector, works with the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
(MDEQ) as a dam safety engineer following the completion of her Master's
degree from Mississippi State University in Starkville.
http://www.cctimesdemocrat.com/story/1898623.html
Deadline nears for Hancock Co. storm debris removal
WLOX
If you live in the un-incorporated areas of Hancock County and still have
hurricane debris and wet household items that need to be picked up, county
leaders say you are running out of time to get it to the roadside.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19650702/deadline-nears-for-hancock-co-storm-debris-removal
Natchez to improve wastewater plant
The Associated Press
NATCHEZ, MISS. — The city of Natchez is making $1 million in improvements
to the city's wastewater treatment plant in an effort to save money in the
long run.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/28/4212842/natchez-to-improve-wastewater.html
Old drugs can be disposed of at Picayune PD
The Picayune Item
PICAYUNE — Unused or unwanted prescription medication can be safely
disposed of at the Picayune Police Department this Saturday.
http://picayuneitem.com/local/x1241971993/Old-drugs-can-be-disposed-of-at-Picayune-PD
Speaker Gun conducting 'ideas tour' next month
by Associated Press
Published: September 28,2012
AROUND MISSISSIPPI — Mississippi House Speaker Philip Gunn is holding an
"ideas tour" in October.
http://msbusiness.com/2012/09/speaker-gun-conducting-ideas-tour-next-month/
National News
Louisiana Bucket Brigade sues EPA over rules governing cancer-causing air
pollution
Times Picayune
The Louisiana Bucket Brigade and seven other environmental groups filed
suit against the Environmental Protection Agency Thursday in an attempt to
get the agency to limit air emissions of the most toxic, cancer-causing
chemicals released by 150 oil refineries in 32 states, including 17 in
Louisiana.
http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2012/09/louisiana_bucket_brigade_sues.html#
Judge gives approval to $42.6 million settlement in Katrina FEMA trailer
dispute
Thursday, September 27, 2012, 9:52 PM
By The Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS, Louisiana -- A federal judge gave his final approval Thursday
to a $42.6 million class-action settlement between companies that made and
installed government-issued trailers after hurricanes in 2005 and Gulf
Coast storm victims who claim they were exposed to hazardous fumes while
living in the shelters.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/judge_gives_approval_to_426_mi.html
BP fined for violating terminal spill response regulation
Reuters
Thu, Sep 27 2012
HOUSTON (Reuters) - BP Plc's division that oversees North American
refineries has agreed to pay a $210,000 fine for violating federal
regulations regarding spill response drills at a Maryland refined product
terminal, regulators said.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/09/27/us-bp-fine-terminal-idUSBRE88Q1S720120927
USA TODAY analysis: Nation's water costs rushing higher
While most Americans worry about gas and heating oil prices, water rates
have surged in the past dozen years, according to a USA TODAY study of 100
municipalities. Prices at least doubled in more than a quarter of the
locations and even tripled in a few.
http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/story/2012-09-27/water-rates-rising/57849626/1
Natural gas wins place as oil field fuel
Houston Chronicle
The biggest, baddest engines in the world, long chained to diesel fuel, are
on the verge of a mass transformation because of cheap natural gas - with
oil field equipment holding particular potential, executives said Thursday
during a summit of heavy fuel users and producers.
http://www.chron.com/business/article/Natural-gas-wins-place-as-oil-field-fuel-3900742.php
Biofuels industry fights back with media blitz
The Hill
By Zack Colman - 09/27/12 10:00 AM ET
The biofuels industry is undertaking an aggressive messaging campaign aimed
at building public support for a fuel requirement that is increasingly
under attack on Capitol Hill.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/258933--biofuels-industry-fights-back-with-media-blitz
Questioning EPA science, chemical giant opposes asbestos proposal for
tainted Montana town
By Associated Press, Published: September 27
BILLINGS, Mont. — A proposed standard for federal cleanup of asbestos
contamination in a Montana town concludes that even a tiny amount of the
material can lead to lung problems — a benchmark far more rigorous than any
in the past and one that the industry says could force expensive and
unnecessary cleanups across the country.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/questioning-epa-science-chemical-giant-opposes-asbestos-proposal-for-tainted-montana-town/2012/09/27/82afa7f6-08e8-11e2-9eea-333857f6a7bd_story.html
Press Releases
BP Products North America to Improve Spill Response Preparedness at Oil
Terminals Nationwide
Company also agrees to pay $210,000 penalty for oil spill response
violations at Maryland facility
WASHINGTON – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S.
Department of Justice announced that BP Products North America, Inc. will
pay a $210,000 penalty and implement an enhanced oil spill response program
at its oil terminals nationwide, as well as a comprehensive compliance
audit to resolve alleged violations of oil spill response regulations at
its Curtis Bay Terminal in Md. The enhanced oil spill response program will
help ensure that BP's oil terminals are better prepared to respond to oil
spills that could affect people's health and the environment.
EPA alleged that BP Products violated federal regulations requiring oil
storage facilities to conduct drills and exercises to respond to oil spills
at its Curtis Bay Terminal. The civil penalty is EPA's highest to date for
violations of oil drills and exercises requirements where there was no
discharge of oil.
"Being prepared to respond to an oil spill can be the difference between
dealing with a small, contained event or a full-blown environmental
disaster," said Cynthia Giles, assistant administrator for EPA's Office of
Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. "After twice failing to pass oil
spill response exercises at its Curtis Bay facility, under the settlement,
BP is required to put preventative measures into place at all of its
terminals nationwide that will reduce the threat of oil spills and protect
our nation's valuable waterways. These measures also raise the bar for
forward-looking companies seeking to ensure that their facilities are ready
to respond quickly in the event of a spill."
"This agreement will help BP Products strengthen its spill response
capabilities across the nation at 33 onshore oil terminals, implementing
enhanced oil spill response measures, and requiring an independent auditor
to evaluate a dozen high-risk onshore facilities for their readiness to
respond to oil spills," said Ignacia S. Moreno, assistant attorney general
for the Environment and Natural Resources Division of the Department of
Justice. "Taking these steps will help instill a culture of readiness and
preparedness that will help protect many communities, and the natural
resources upon which they rely, from future harm."
Under the settlement filed today in federal court by the U.S. Department of
Justice, BP Products will implement a first-of-its-kind program of spill
prevention measures at its 33 non-refinery petroleum products terminals
across the country.
As part of this program, the company will review and revise response plans
for these facilities to ensure safeguards are tailored to the conditions at
each facility. BP Products will also perform enhanced training, drills and
exercises, exceeding regulatory requirements, and will repeat any failed
drills and exercises within 90 days.
In addition, BP Products has agreed to an independent compliance audit of
12 of its marine and high-risk petroleum product terminal facilities. The
audits will ensure that each audited facility is in compliance with spill
response requirements, and to evaluate whether the facilities have
resources to respond to major spills. The results of the compliance audits
will also be incorporated into the enhanced spill prevention and response
program being implemented at all of BP's petroleum terminals.
EPA and the U.S. Coast Guard twice conducted unannounced
government-initiated oil spill response exercises at the Curtis Bay
Terminal. During these exercises, BP Products was required to demonstrate
its response to a small scale discharge of fuel oil from the facility into
Curtis Creek by being prepared to deploy 1,000 feet of oil containment boom
within one hour and subsequently deploying the boom. On both occasions, the
company did not complete the exercise in the allotted time and failed to
adequately deploy the containment boom.
The Curtis Bay Terminal, which can store about 22 million gallons of oil,
is located less than a quarter mile from Curtis Creek, a tributary of
Curtis Bay, the Patapsco River, and the Chesapeake Bay.
High-risk onshore facilities that store oil, such as the Curtis Bay
Terminal, must have a plan for responding to oil spills that includes
employee training, spill response equipment, and a "worst case" contingency
plan for containing and cleaning up spills.
Based on the failed drills, EPA cited the company for failing to adequately
implement a response plan, failing to identify sufficient spill response
resources at the facility, and deficiencies in the facility's training,
drills and exercises program.
The proposed consent decree is subject to a 30 day public comment period
and final court approval.
More information about the settlement:
http://www.epa.gov/enforcement/water/cases/curtisbay.html
More information about EPA's Federal Response Plan requirements:
http://www.epa.gov/emergencies/content/frps/index.htm
More about the Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure requirement:
http://www.epa.gov/emergencies/content/spcc/index.htm
Friday, September 28, 2012
DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT - SEPTEMBER 29
Citizens are being encouraged to participate in the upcoming drug
take back events sponsored by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA).
This nationally coordinated event takes place Saturday, September 29,
2012, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and will include various sites across
Mississippi. Unwanted prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines can
be brought to any of the participating locations so the drugs may be
disposed of safely. Removing unused medications from the home can help
prevent intentional misuse and unintentional poisonings of children and
pets. Dumping medications down the drain or flushing it down a toilet
can become a source of water contamination. Research is continuing into
whether such water contamination adversely impacts human health or
aquatic life.
The most recent national drug take back event sponsored by the DEA was held in April 2012, and a record-breaking 552,161 pounds (276 tons) of unwanted or expired medications was collected at 5,659 sites across the country. More than 1.5 million pounds (774 tons) of unused medications have been removed from circulation from the last four take back events.
In the Jackson MS area, law enforcement agencies that are participating and offering drop off sites are as follows:
FLOWOOD POLICE DEPARTMENT
NEW SOUTH NEUROSPINE
IN PARKING LOT
2470 FLOWOOD DR.
FLOWOOD MS, 39232
JACKSON POLICE DEPARTMENT
FRONT SIDEWALK - DRIVE THROUGH
327 E. PASCAGOULA STREET
JACKSON MS, 39205
MADISON POLICE DEPARTMENT
MADISON FIRE DEPARTMENT STATION 2
7466 OLD CANTON ROAD
MADISON MS, 39110
RANKIN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPT.
IN LOBBY
221 NORTH TIMBER STREET
BRANDON MS, 39042
RESERVOIR POLICE DEPARTMENT
KROGER FOOD STORE
OUTSIDE- (ON SPILLWAY ROAD)
1070 SPILLWAY CIRCLE
BRANDON MS, 39047
RIDGELAND POLICE DEPARTMENT WITH DREAM INC.
WALGREENS DRUG STORE
OUTSIDE PARKING LOT
6970 OLD CANTON RD
RIDGELAND MS, 39157
Other event locations are posted on the U.S. Department of Justice website at: http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov. Gather up your unused medications and have them disposed safely! Please forward this information to persons that you know may be interested.
The most recent national drug take back event sponsored by the DEA was held in April 2012, and a record-breaking 552,161 pounds (276 tons) of unwanted or expired medications was collected at 5,659 sites across the country. More than 1.5 million pounds (774 tons) of unused medications have been removed from circulation from the last four take back events.
In the Jackson MS area, law enforcement agencies that are participating and offering drop off sites are as follows:
FLOWOOD POLICE DEPARTMENT
NEW SOUTH NEUROSPINE
IN PARKING LOT
2470 FLOWOOD DR.
FLOWOOD MS, 39232
JACKSON POLICE DEPARTMENT
FRONT SIDEWALK - DRIVE THROUGH
327 E. PASCAGOULA STREET
JACKSON MS, 39205
MADISON POLICE DEPARTMENT
MADISON FIRE DEPARTMENT STATION 2
7466 OLD CANTON ROAD
MADISON MS, 39110
RANKIN COUNTY SHERIFF'S DEPT.
IN LOBBY
221 NORTH TIMBER STREET
BRANDON MS, 39042
RESERVOIR POLICE DEPARTMENT
KROGER FOOD STORE
OUTSIDE- (ON SPILLWAY ROAD)
1070 SPILLWAY CIRCLE
BRANDON MS, 39047
RIDGELAND POLICE DEPARTMENT WITH DREAM INC.
WALGREENS DRUG STORE
OUTSIDE PARKING LOT
6970 OLD CANTON RD
RIDGELAND MS, 39157
Other event locations are posted on the U.S. Department of Justice website at: http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov. Gather up your unused medications and have them disposed safely! Please forward this information to persons that you know may be interested.
Free Technical Assistance - EPA Sustainable Communities
EPA's
Building Blocks for Sustainable Communities program will be offering
free technical assistance to communities interested in implementing
smart growth approaches.
- EPA's Request for Letters of Interest has been posted on the Building Blocks page at http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/buildingblocks.htm#afepa
- On October 4, 3:00-4:00 Eastern, EPA will host a second webinar for those who were not able to attend the first. The webinar will provide an overview of the Building Blocks program and the application process. For details, visit http://www.epa.gov/smartgrowth/webinars/index.html
Thursday, September 27, 2012
News Clippings 9/27/12
Oil Spill
GoCoast 2020 meets to discuss how to spend BP money
WLOX
The GoCoast 2020 team is inching closer to determining how to use the money
coming to Mississippi from the BP Restore Act.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19649303/committee-meets-to-discuss-how-to-spend-bp-money
GoCoast 2020 looking for South Mississippi's ideas
GoCoast 2020 looking for a few visionaries
Sun Herald
By MARY PEREZ — meperez@sunherald.com
GULFPORT -- Community leaders don't know how much money the RESTORE Act
will bring to South Mississippi or when it will arrive, but they are
getting ready for what they say is a one-time opportunity to make an impact
that will last for generations.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/26/4210584/gocoast-2020-looking-for-south.html
Charlotte joins consortium for oil spill funds
CHARLOTTE COUNTY, FL - More than two years after the Deepwater Horizon
dumped millions of gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico, Florida is
moving forward with a plan to restore the hardest hit areas. The
unprecedented program will help out the state environmentally and
economically.
http://www.nbc-2.com/story/19638040/2012/09/25/charlotte-joins-consortium-for-oil-spill-funds
Apalach advances BP money plan
By VALERIE GARMAN
Published: Wednesday, September 26, 2012 at 20:11 PM.
APALACHICOLA — The city of Apalachicola has spearheaded a resolution
demanding municipalities have some say-so in how Florida's county-bound
funds from the RESTORE Act are spent.
http://newsherald.com/news/apalach-advances-bp-money-plan-1.17653
Woman accused of phony oil spill cleanup classes
The Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS — A Mississippi woman is accused of posing as a federal worker
to make nearly $216,000 giving fraudulent training classes to fishermen who
hoped to get jobs cleaning up the Gulf of Mexico oil spill in 2010.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/27/4210968/woman-accused-of-phony-oil-spill.html
State News
DuPont's DeLisle plant pays $117K pollution fine
By JEFF AMY — Associated Press
JACKSON -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality has fined
DuPont Co.'s DeLisle plant $117,000 after pollution control equipment broke
down, allowing a smokestack to emit too much during a March 2011 test.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/26/4210560/duponts-delisle-plant-pays-117k.html
Sediment causing Reservoir problems
Solution could cost leaseholders $1.8M
Clarion Ledger
Some Ross Barnett Reservoir residents are kicking up dust over increased
sediments clogging the waters, in some cases making levels too shallow for
boating.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120927/NEWS/309260063/Sediment-causing-Reservoir-problems?odyssey=tab|
topnews|text|Home
Recycling to get boost at M.M. Roberts
Hattiesburg American
Attendees of Saturday's Southern Miss-Louisville football game not only are
being asked to consider recycling their throwaways, but folks will be on
hand to led a hand in the effort.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20120926/NEWS01/120926014/Recycling-get-boost-M-M-Roberts
New garbage company ready to clean up Harrison County
Waste Pro will begin garbage pickup Monday in Harrison County
Sun Herald
By DONNA HARRIS — dharris@sunherald.com
HARRISON COUNTY -- Garbage collection switches hands in Harrison County on
Monday when Waste Pro officially takes over.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/26/4210548/new-garbage-company-ready-to-clean.html
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|Madison Police Department to take unwanted prescriptions |
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|Madison County Journal |
| |
|On Saturday, Sept. 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Madison Police |
|Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the |
|public another opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding |
|their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted |
|prescription drugs. Bring your medications for disposal to the parking lot|
|of Tulane University located at 2115 Main Street. The service is free and |
|anonymous, no questions asked. |
| |
| |
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http://onlinemadison.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=25563
Sheriff's Office to collect unused prescription drugs
Monroe 360
09.27.12 - 04:00 am
ABERDEEN - The Monroe County Sheriff's Office will take part in the DEA
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Sept. 29.
http://monroe360.com/view/full_story/20189353/article-Sheriff%E2%80%99s-Office-to-collect-unused-prescription-drugs?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
Drug dropoff returns Saturday
Itawamba County Times
by Adam Armour/Staff Writer
09.27.12 - 06:00 am
Head into the bathroom. Now, open up the cabinet where the medicine is kept
— prescription and over-the-counter alike — and start checking some dates.
See what's in there that isn't being used, is half empty or expired.
Chances are, there are several.
http://itawamba360.com/view/full_story/20267313/article-Drug-dropoff-returns-Saturday?instance=lead_story_left_column
Pascagoula LNG terminal quiet with down market
Sun Herald
By KAREN NELSON — klnelson@sunherald.com
PASCAGOULA -- The $1.1 billion Gulf LNG terminal, which changed the horizon
south of Pascagoula with its two huge storage tanks, was a major hope for
bringing more traffic through the public Port of Pascagoula.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/26/4210603/pascagoula-lng-terminal-quiet.html
Unique solar power 'plants' brighten up children's museum
WLOX
Visitors to the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center in Gulfport will notice a
colorful new exhibit that just came out of the ground. It looks like a
popular type of flower, but operates like a miniature power plant. The
exhibit is considered the only one of its kind in Mississippi.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19645676/solar-panel-sunflowers-helping-childrens-museum-cut-costs
National News
EPA Says Wyoming Fracking Results Are Consistent
Wall Street Journal
By TENNILLE TRACY
The Environmental Protection Agency said new government tests of
groundwater near Pavillion, Wyo., have yielded results similar to data it
released last year, when it suggested chemicals in the water were linked
to hydraulic fracturing.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10000872396390443328404578020923049282436.html
Lots of new data, no analysis from Wyo. gas field where EPA linked fracking
to water pollution
By Associated Press,
CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The meaning of reams of new data from groundwater testing
in a remote Wyoming gas field where the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency sparked concern last year will be a matter of interpretation.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/new-tests-show-less-benzene-in-wyo-gas-field-where-epa-linked-fracking-groundwater-pollution/2012/09/26/001e2b1e-0839-11e2-9eea-333857f6a7bd_story.html
GoCoast 2020 meets to discuss how to spend BP money
WLOX
The GoCoast 2020 team is inching closer to determining how to use the money
coming to Mississippi from the BP Restore Act.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19649303/committee-meets-to-discuss-how-to-spend-bp-money
GoCoast 2020 looking for South Mississippi's ideas
GoCoast 2020 looking for a few visionaries
Sun Herald
By MARY PEREZ — meperez@sunherald.com
GULFPORT -- Community leaders don't know how much money the RESTORE Act
will bring to South Mississippi or when it will arrive, but they are
getting ready for what they say is a one-time opportunity to make an impact
that will last for generations.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/26/4210584/gocoast-2020-looking-for-south.html
Charlotte joins consortium for oil spill funds
CHARLOTTE COUNTY, FL - More than two years after the Deepwater Horizon
dumped millions of gallons of oil into the Gulf of Mexico, Florida is
moving forward with a plan to restore the hardest hit areas. The
unprecedented program will help out the state environmentally and
economically.
http://www.nbc-2.com/story/19638040/2012/09/25/charlotte-joins-consortium-for-oil-spill-funds
Apalach advances BP money plan
By VALERIE GARMAN
Published: Wednesday, September 26, 2012 at 20:11 PM.
APALACHICOLA — The city of Apalachicola has spearheaded a resolution
demanding municipalities have some say-so in how Florida's county-bound
funds from the RESTORE Act are spent.
http://newsherald.com/news/apalach-advances-bp-money-plan-1.17653
Woman accused of phony oil spill cleanup classes
The Associated Press
NEW ORLEANS — A Mississippi woman is accused of posing as a federal worker
to make nearly $216,000 giving fraudulent training classes to fishermen who
hoped to get jobs cleaning up the Gulf of Mexico oil spill in 2010.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/27/4210968/woman-accused-of-phony-oil-spill.html
State News
DuPont's DeLisle plant pays $117K pollution fine
By JEFF AMY — Associated Press
JACKSON -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality has fined
DuPont Co.'s DeLisle plant $117,000 after pollution control equipment broke
down, allowing a smokestack to emit too much during a March 2011 test.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/26/4210560/duponts-delisle-plant-pays-117k.html
Sediment causing Reservoir problems
Solution could cost leaseholders $1.8M
Clarion Ledger
Some Ross Barnett Reservoir residents are kicking up dust over increased
sediments clogging the waters, in some cases making levels too shallow for
boating.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120927/NEWS/309260063/Sediment-causing-Reservoir-problems?odyssey=tab|
topnews|text|Home
Recycling to get boost at M.M. Roberts
Hattiesburg American
Attendees of Saturday's Southern Miss-Louisville football game not only are
being asked to consider recycling their throwaways, but folks will be on
hand to led a hand in the effort.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20120926/NEWS01/120926014/Recycling-get-boost-M-M-Roberts
New garbage company ready to clean up Harrison County
Waste Pro will begin garbage pickup Monday in Harrison County
Sun Herald
By DONNA HARRIS — dharris@sunherald.com
HARRISON COUNTY -- Garbage collection switches hands in Harrison County on
Monday when Waste Pro officially takes over.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/26/4210548/new-garbage-company-ready-to-clean.html
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| |
|Madison Police Department to take unwanted prescriptions |
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
|Madison County Journal |
| |
|On Saturday, Sept. 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Madison Police |
|Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the |
|public another opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding |
|their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted |
|prescription drugs. Bring your medications for disposal to the parking lot|
|of Tulane University located at 2115 Main Street. The service is free and |
|anonymous, no questions asked. |
| |
| |
|--------------------------------------------------------------------------|
http://onlinemadison.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=25563
Sheriff's Office to collect unused prescription drugs
Monroe 360
09.27.12 - 04:00 am
ABERDEEN - The Monroe County Sheriff's Office will take part in the DEA
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on Sept. 29.
http://monroe360.com/view/full_story/20189353/article-Sheriff%E2%80%99s-Office-to-collect-unused-prescription-drugs?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
Drug dropoff returns Saturday
Itawamba County Times
by Adam Armour/Staff Writer
09.27.12 - 06:00 am
Head into the bathroom. Now, open up the cabinet where the medicine is kept
— prescription and over-the-counter alike — and start checking some dates.
See what's in there that isn't being used, is half empty or expired.
Chances are, there are several.
http://itawamba360.com/view/full_story/20267313/article-Drug-dropoff-returns-Saturday?instance=lead_story_left_column
Pascagoula LNG terminal quiet with down market
Sun Herald
By KAREN NELSON — klnelson@sunherald.com
PASCAGOULA -- The $1.1 billion Gulf LNG terminal, which changed the horizon
south of Pascagoula with its two huge storage tanks, was a major hope for
bringing more traffic through the public Port of Pascagoula.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/26/4210603/pascagoula-lng-terminal-quiet.html
Unique solar power 'plants' brighten up children's museum
WLOX
Visitors to the Lynn Meadows Discovery Center in Gulfport will notice a
colorful new exhibit that just came out of the ground. It looks like a
popular type of flower, but operates like a miniature power plant. The
exhibit is considered the only one of its kind in Mississippi.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19645676/solar-panel-sunflowers-helping-childrens-museum-cut-costs
National News
EPA Says Wyoming Fracking Results Are Consistent
Wall Street Journal
By TENNILLE TRACY
The Environmental Protection Agency said new government tests of
groundwater near Pavillion, Wyo., have yielded results similar to data it
released last year, when it suggested chemicals in the water were linked
to hydraulic fracturing.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10000872396390443328404578020923049282436.html
Lots of new data, no analysis from Wyo. gas field where EPA linked fracking
to water pollution
By Associated Press,
CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The meaning of reams of new data from groundwater testing
in a remote Wyoming gas field where the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency sparked concern last year will be a matter of interpretation.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/new-tests-show-less-benzene-in-wyo-gas-field-where-epa-linked-fracking-groundwater-pollution/2012/09/26/001e2b1e-0839-11e2-9eea-333857f6a7bd_story.html
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Fw: Media Advisory -- GoCoast 2020 Commission Meeting September 26
MEDIA ADVISORY CONTACT: Robbie Wilbur
September 24, 2012 601-961-5277
GoCoast 2020 Commission Meeting September 26
(JACKSON, Miss.) – The GoCoast 2020 Commission will hold a meeting on
Wednesday, September 26, from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Great Southern
Club in Gulfport. Each of the Commission's teams will provide an update on
its priorities. The media is welcome to attend.
GoCoast 2020 Commission Meeting
Wednesday, September 26, 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Great Southern Club
2510 14th Street, #1480, Gulfport, 39501
GoCoast 2020 was established by Governor Phil Bryant through executive
order to serve as the official advisory board for the allocation of funds
received by the State of Mississippi under the RESTORE Act. More
information on the Commission is available at www.gocoast2020.com.
# # #
(See attached file: magocoast.pdf)
Mr. Robbie Wilbur
Communications Director
Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
Post Office Box 2261
Jackson, Mississippi 39225
601/961-5277
601/421-5699 (c)
601/961-5715 (f)
rwilbur@deq.state.ms.us
Connect with MDEQ on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/MDEQ/118172664880239?v=wall
Follow MDEQ on Twitter
http://twitter.com/#!/MDEQ
News Clippings 9/26/12
Oil Spill
Gulf County Prepares for RESTORE Act Funds
WJHG
Members of the Gulf County RESTORE Committee are still trying to figure out
how to best use money the county is getting as a part of the RESTORE Act.
It's money being given by BP to help restore areas affected by the 2010 BP
oil spill.
http://www.wjhg.com/home/headlines/Gulf-County-Prepares-for-RESTORE-Act-Funds-171265631.html
Recommendations for Restoring Gulf after Deepwater Horizon Disaster
Released
By STEVE NEWBORN
It's been just over two years since the Deepwater Horizon well was capped,
ending the largest oil spill in U.S. history. But is it really over? The
largest gathering of scientists since the spill met recently at the
Tradewinds Island Resort in St. Pete Beach to discuss the damage to the
Gulf - and what may yet happen.
http://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/recommendations-restoring-gulf-after-deepwater-horizon-disaster-released
State News
MDEQ: No contamination on beach from oil or nutria after hurricane
Sea Coast Echo
By Dwayne Bremer
Sep 25, 2012, 17:35
The second phase of the Hurricane Isaac beach cleanup has begun and
officials said Tuesday that no new oil contamination has been found so far.
Geoff Clemens of Compton Engineering said Tuesday that the majority of
debris on the beach has been picked up.
http://12.68.233.230/40/article_6288.shtml#.UGLh5Y0iYk0
Locals win fight against landfill
Panel denies permit, thwartssite's expansion
Clarion Ledger
Residents living near the Faircloth Rubbish Landfill won another round in
the fight against a proposed expansion, as the Hinds County Planning
Commission on Tuesday denied a conditional use permit.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120926/NEWS/309250069/Locals-win-fight-against-landfill
Landfill expansion voted down
WLBT
The Hinds County Zoning Commission voted down a landfill expansion south of
McRaven Road Tuesday afternoon. Protestors who packed the hearing in
Raymond claimed victory. Many of those fighting the expansion are
homeowners living near the 38 acre facility.
http://www.wlbt.com/story/19638213/landfill-expansion-voted-down
Agency rejects appeal on Mississippi gas and oil leasing
By JEFF AMY — Associated Press
JACKSON -- The head of the Mississippi Development Authority has rejected
an appeal by opponents who sought to block rules for offshore gas and oil
exploration and leasing from taking effect.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/25/4208608/agency-rejects-appeal-on-mississippi.html
George County Supervisors, fellow officials make trek to D.C. to promote
$50 million reservoir project
Mississippi Press
Tuesday, September 25, 2012, 3:40 PM
By Kaija Wilkinson
LUCEDALE, Mississippi -- The George County Board of Supervisors spent
several days over the past week in Washington, D.C., meeting with elected
leaders in an effort to keep the proposed $50 million Lake George reservoir
project forefront in their minds, Ken Flanagan, the board's communications
director, said this afternoon.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/george_county_supervisors_fell.html
Preparing for the prescription drop-off event
WTVA
TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) -- The Lee County Sheriff's Department, in partnership
with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public another
opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft.
http://www.wtva.com/news/local/story/Preparing-for-the-prescription-drop-off-event/t1uMnhY7TkWBFrneG0yy0w.cspx
Man wants sentence vacated in biodiesel scam case
by The Associated Press
09.25.12 - 02:20 pm
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — A Mississippi businessman has asked a federal judge
to vacate his five-year prison sentence on a conviction of defrauding a
biofuels subsidy program.
http://djournal.com/view/full_story/20266429/article-Man-wants-sentence-vacated-in-biodiesel-scam-case--?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
Mississippi Sen. Roger Wicker wants science-based 'green' programs
Commercial Appeal
By Lela Garlington
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
While many have gone gaga over environmentally friendly green buildings,
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., said Tuesday that some energy-efficient
standards are hurting the American wood products industry.
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/sep/25/mississippi-sen-roger-wicker-wants-science-based/?print=1
National News
Officials: Salt dome cavern failed, disagree with seismic claim
WAFB
Assumption Parish officials said the Department of Natural Resources has
confirmed Texas Brine Cavern No. 3 at the abandoned salt dome has failed.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19629810/officials-salt-dome-cavern-failed-disagree-with-seismic-claim
New test results due from Wyoming gas field where EPA linked fracking,
groundwater pollution
By Associated Press, Updated: Wednesday, September 26, 2:31 AM
CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The U.S. Geological Survey plans to release results
Wednesday from a new round of groundwater tests in a Wyoming gas field
where another federal agency linked hydraulic fracturing to contaminants
found in two water wells and local residents have complained of chemicals
polluting their well water.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/new-test-results-due-from-wyoming-gas-field-where-epa-linked-fracking-groundwater-pollution/2012/09/26/9c1eb324-07aa-11e2-9eea-333857f6a7bd_print.html
EPA air chief defends effort to control message
Politico
By: Erica Martinson
September 26, 2012 04:39 AM EDT
Environmental Protection Agency air chief Gina McCarthy on Tuesday defended
her agency's efforts to control its message — including controlling
journalists' ability to speak to EPA scientists.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0912/81666.html?hp=l8
Senate appropriators release draft environmental bill
The Hill
By Erik Wasson - 09/25/12 03:02 PM ET
Senate appropriators on Tuesday released a draft 2013 environmental funding
bill even though Congress last week passed a six-month stopgap spending
measure that greatly diminishes its importance.
http://thehill.com/blogs/on-the-money/appropriations/258611-senate-appropriators-release-environmental-bill-may-be-moot
TVA money from ash spill funds school construction
The Associated Press
Published: Tuesday, Sep. 25, 2012 - 5:45 am
KINGSTON, Tenn. -- A rural East Tennessee school system has wrapped up an
ambitious school construction program, paid for by TVA after a disastrous
coal ash spill.
http://www.sacbee.com/2012/09/25/4852431/tva-money-from-ash-spill-funds.html
Gulf County Prepares for RESTORE Act Funds
WJHG
Members of the Gulf County RESTORE Committee are still trying to figure out
how to best use money the county is getting as a part of the RESTORE Act.
It's money being given by BP to help restore areas affected by the 2010 BP
oil spill.
http://www.wjhg.com/home/headlines/Gulf-County-Prepares-for-RESTORE-Act-Funds-171265631.html
Recommendations for Restoring Gulf after Deepwater Horizon Disaster
Released
By STEVE NEWBORN
It's been just over two years since the Deepwater Horizon well was capped,
ending the largest oil spill in U.S. history. But is it really over? The
largest gathering of scientists since the spill met recently at the
Tradewinds Island Resort in St. Pete Beach to discuss the damage to the
Gulf - and what may yet happen.
http://wusfnews.wusf.usf.edu/post/recommendations-restoring-gulf-after-deepwater-horizon-disaster-released
State News
MDEQ: No contamination on beach from oil or nutria after hurricane
Sea Coast Echo
By Dwayne Bremer
Sep 25, 2012, 17:35
The second phase of the Hurricane Isaac beach cleanup has begun and
officials said Tuesday that no new oil contamination has been found so far.
Geoff Clemens of Compton Engineering said Tuesday that the majority of
debris on the beach has been picked up.
http://12.68.233.230/40/article_6288.shtml#.UGLh5Y0iYk0
Locals win fight against landfill
Panel denies permit, thwartssite's expansion
Clarion Ledger
Residents living near the Faircloth Rubbish Landfill won another round in
the fight against a proposed expansion, as the Hinds County Planning
Commission on Tuesday denied a conditional use permit.
http://www.clarionledger.com/article/20120926/NEWS/309250069/Locals-win-fight-against-landfill
Landfill expansion voted down
WLBT
The Hinds County Zoning Commission voted down a landfill expansion south of
McRaven Road Tuesday afternoon. Protestors who packed the hearing in
Raymond claimed victory. Many of those fighting the expansion are
homeowners living near the 38 acre facility.
http://www.wlbt.com/story/19638213/landfill-expansion-voted-down
Agency rejects appeal on Mississippi gas and oil leasing
By JEFF AMY — Associated Press
JACKSON -- The head of the Mississippi Development Authority has rejected
an appeal by opponents who sought to block rules for offshore gas and oil
exploration and leasing from taking effect.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/25/4208608/agency-rejects-appeal-on-mississippi.html
George County Supervisors, fellow officials make trek to D.C. to promote
$50 million reservoir project
Mississippi Press
Tuesday, September 25, 2012, 3:40 PM
By Kaija Wilkinson
LUCEDALE, Mississippi -- The George County Board of Supervisors spent
several days over the past week in Washington, D.C., meeting with elected
leaders in an effort to keep the proposed $50 million Lake George reservoir
project forefront in their minds, Ken Flanagan, the board's communications
director, said this afternoon.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/george_county_supervisors_fell.html
Preparing for the prescription drop-off event
WTVA
TUPELO, Miss. (WTVA) -- The Lee County Sheriff's Department, in partnership
with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public another
opportunity to prevent pill abuse and theft.
http://www.wtva.com/news/local/story/Preparing-for-the-prescription-drop-off-event/t1uMnhY7TkWBFrneG0yy0w.cspx
Man wants sentence vacated in biodiesel scam case
by The Associated Press
09.25.12 - 02:20 pm
JACKSON, Miss. (AP) — A Mississippi businessman has asked a federal judge
to vacate his five-year prison sentence on a conviction of defrauding a
biofuels subsidy program.
http://djournal.com/view/full_story/20266429/article-Man-wants-sentence-vacated-in-biodiesel-scam-case--?instance=secondary_stories_left_column
Mississippi Sen. Roger Wicker wants science-based 'green' programs
Commercial Appeal
By Lela Garlington
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
While many have gone gaga over environmentally friendly green buildings,
U.S. Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., said Tuesday that some energy-efficient
standards are hurting the American wood products industry.
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2012/sep/25/mississippi-sen-roger-wicker-wants-science-based/?print=1
National News
Officials: Salt dome cavern failed, disagree with seismic claim
WAFB
Assumption Parish officials said the Department of Natural Resources has
confirmed Texas Brine Cavern No. 3 at the abandoned salt dome has failed.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19629810/officials-salt-dome-cavern-failed-disagree-with-seismic-claim
New test results due from Wyoming gas field where EPA linked fracking,
groundwater pollution
By Associated Press, Updated: Wednesday, September 26, 2:31 AM
CHEYENNE, Wyo. — The U.S. Geological Survey plans to release results
Wednesday from a new round of groundwater tests in a Wyoming gas field
where another federal agency linked hydraulic fracturing to contaminants
found in two water wells and local residents have complained of chemicals
polluting their well water.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/new-test-results-due-from-wyoming-gas-field-where-epa-linked-fracking-groundwater-pollution/2012/09/26/9c1eb324-07aa-11e2-9eea-333857f6a7bd_print.html
EPA air chief defends effort to control message
Politico
By: Erica Martinson
September 26, 2012 04:39 AM EDT
Environmental Protection Agency air chief Gina McCarthy on Tuesday defended
her agency's efforts to control its message — including controlling
journalists' ability to speak to EPA scientists.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0912/81666.html?hp=l8
Senate appropriators release draft environmental bill
The Hill
By Erik Wasson - 09/25/12 03:02 PM ET
Senate appropriators on Tuesday released a draft 2013 environmental funding
bill even though Congress last week passed a six-month stopgap spending
measure that greatly diminishes its importance.
http://thehill.com/blogs/on-the-money/appropriations/258611-senate-appropriators-release-environmental-bill-may-be-moot
TVA money from ash spill funds school construction
The Associated Press
Published: Tuesday, Sep. 25, 2012 - 5:45 am
KINGSTON, Tenn. -- A rural East Tennessee school system has wrapped up an
ambitious school construction program, paid for by TVA after a disastrous
coal ash spill.
http://www.sacbee.com/2012/09/25/4852431/tva-money-from-ash-spill-funds.html
Business E-Waste Day (Jackson, MS) - October 26th
Bring any unwanted electronics to the Mississippi Farmer's Market, Friday, October 26, 2012 from 8AM to 2PM. Doing so will lighten the electronic waste from your offices in an environmentally friendly way.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Media Advisory: GoCoast 2020 Listening Sessions to be held in Mississippi’s Gulf Coast Counties October 2, 3, & 4
MEDIA ADVISORY September 25, 2012
CONTACT: Robbie Wilbur (601) 961-5277
GoCoast 2020 Listening Sessions to be held in
Mississippi's Gulf Coast Counties October 2, 3, & 4
Events will provide an update of GoCoast 2020 work to date and will give
the public additional opportunities for input into the process.
(JACKSON, Miss.) – The GoCoast 2020 Commission will hold a series of three
Listening Sessions—one in each of the three Mississippi coastal counties—on
October 2, 3 & 4. Each of the events is designed to provide an update on
the current progress of the GoCoast 2020 Commission and to also give an
additional opportunity for the public to make comments and ask questions
about the process.
The following is a schedule of the upcoming GoCoast 2020 Listening
Sessions:
Jackson County: Tuesday, October 2, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College, Jackson County Campus, Fine Arts
Auditorium, Gautier, Mississippi
Harrison County: Wednesday, October 3, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
City of Long Beach Community Center, 20257 Daugherty Road, Long Beach,
Mississippi
Hancock County: Thursday, October 4, from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Bay St. Louis Community Hall, 301 Blaize Avenue in Bay St. Louis,
Mississippi
GoCoast 2020 was established by Governor Phil Bryant through executive
order to serve as the official advisory board for the allocation of funds
received by the State of Mississippi under the RESTORE Act and to create a
long-range planning strategy for the Mississippi Gulf Coast. More
information on the Commission is available at www.gocoast2020.com.
# # #
Mr. Robbie Wilbur
Communications Director
Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
Post Office Box 2261
Jackson, Mississippi 39225
601/961-5277
601/421-5699 (c)
601/961-5715 (f)
rwilbur@deq.state.ms.us
Connect with MDEQ on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/MDEQ/118172664880239?v=wall
Follow MDEQ on Twitter
http://twitter.com/#!/MDEQ
News Clippings 9/25/12
Oil Spill
Gulf Coast RESTORE Act Consortium Approved
WMBB
Bay County, Fla. -
Commissioners across the Gulf Coast reached a significant milestone when
they created the Gulf Coast Consortium. The consortium is a public agency
that will act in the interest of the counties once the BP fines start
flowing, but what's holding them back is the disbursement of funds.
http://www.wmbb.com/story/19629081/gulf-coast-restore-act-consortium-approved
Reef research center to help unlock, preserve sea treasures
By Ariel Barkhurst
Sun Sentinel
In a $50 million five-story brick and glass building in John U. Lloyd Beach
State Park, researchers are taking the biomass of crustaceans to help study
the effects of the Deepwater Horizon disaster, cultivating asexual staghorn
coral and sequencing the genomes of sponges.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/fl-nsu-reef-research-center-20120920-15,0,2575442.story
State News
Joe's Bayou closed because of sewerage spill
By SUN HERALD
The state Department of Environmental Quality issued a temporary water
contact advisory Monday for Joe's Bayou
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/24/4205603/joes-bayou-closed-because-of-sewerage.html
Ingalls Shipbuilding pays $33,775 for portable toilet that emptied
untreated wastewater into Pascagoula River
Monday, September 24, 2012, 3:29 PM
By The Associated Press
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- Ingalls Shipbuilding has paid a $33,775 fine
after a portable toilet dumped untreated waste into the East Pascagoula
River for more than six years.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/ingalls_shipbuilding_pays_3377.html
Homeowners protest expansion of Hinds Co. landfill
WLBT
A group of homeowners who live south of Clinton are protesting the proposed
expansion of a landfill in Hinds County.
http://www.wlbt.com/story/19628244/homeowners-protest-expansion-of-hinds-co-landfill
City seeks comments on grant application
Hattiesburg American
The city of Hattiesburg is soliciting comments from residents through Oct.
16 concerning its bid for an U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 2013
grant.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20120925/NEWS01/209250311/City-seeks-comments-grant-application
Beach cleanup, damage assessment continues in Ocean Springs, Pascagoula
Monday, September 24, 2012, 3:50 PM
By Kaija Wilkinson
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- Jackson County crews began post-Hurricane Isaac
cleanup of Pascagoula Beach this morning and should be finished by Tuesday,
according to county roads manager Joe O'Neal.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/back_to_the_beach_jackson_coun.html
What comes down must be picked up: City, county storm cleanup under way
Natchez Democrat
Published 12:02amTuesday, September 25, 2012
NATCHEZ — Nearly a month after Tropical Storm Isaac crawled through the
Miss-Lou, cleanup of
storm debris is not yet done.
http://www.natchezdemocrat.com/2012/09/25/what-comes-down-must-be-picked-up-city-county-storm-cleanup-under-way/
Experimental Project to Rebuild Biloxi Dunes Expanding
MPB
PUBLISHED BY RHONDA MILLER ON 24 SEP 2012 11:37PM
Scientists at Mississippi State University say the dunes they're rebuilding
on a Biloxi beach survived the test of Hurricane Isaac. MPB's Rhonda Miller
reports the beach experiment uses a simple and inexpensive way to stop
coastal erosion.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/experimental_project_to_rebuild_biloxi_dunes_expanding
Drug Take Back Day is Saturday
Hattiesburg American
The Hattiesburg Police Department is collaborating with the Drug
Enforcement Agency in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Program.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20120925/NEWS01/209250315/Drug-Take-Back-Day-Saturday
Gov. Phil Bryant named chairman of Regional Energy Board
Monday, September 24, 2012, 4:41 PM
By Mississippi Press Staff
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma -- Gov. Phil Bryant was named chairman of the
Southern States Energy Board today, slated to serve a one-year term
following outgoing chair Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/gov_phil_bryant_named_chairman.html
Farm Bill Set to Expire, Concerns Some Miss. Farmers
MPB
PUBLISHED BY DANIEL CHERRY ON 24 SEP 2012 06:09PM
The current U.S. Farm Bill will expire in five days, most likely without an
extension or a new version. MPB's Daniel Cherry reports how that's breeding
discontent among Mississippians in the agriculture industry.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/715farm_bill_set_to_expire_concerns_some_miss._farmers
Isaac's toll on Mississippi crops far less than damage in Louisiana
by Ted Carter
Published: September 23,2012
Just how much damage Hurricane Isaac did to crops in the southern portion
of the state has yet to be fully determined.
http://msbusiness.com/2012/09/isaacs-toll-on-mississippi-crops-far-less-than-damage-in-louisiana/
Hairston named chairman of Gaming Commission
Sun Herald
Gov. Phil Bryant has appointed John Hairston as chairman of the Mississippi
Gaming Commission, effective Oct. 1.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/24/4204842/hairston-named-chairman-of-gaming.html
Good news for state employees, jury still out on plan's math
by MBJ Staff
Published: September 23,2012
In a move that will make everyone who works for Mississippi feel better,
state government will be asked to put $44 million more into the Mississippi
retirement system next year to shore up the program for an estimated 30
years, the system director has told lawmakers.
http://msbusiness.com/2012/09/good-news-for-state-employees-jury-still-out-on-plans-math/
National News
Judge dismisses New York's anti-drilling lawsuit
Reuters
By Jessica Dye
NEW YORK (Reuters) - A federal judge in Brooklyn dismissed a lawsuit on
Monday brought by New York state and environmental groups challenging
proposed natural gas drilling in the Delaware River basin.
http://in.reuters.com/article/2012/09/24/us-fracking-dismissal-idINBRE88N14520120924
Opinion
CHARLIE MITCHELL: Public pensions a sacred trust in Mississippi, for now
Sun Herald
OXFORD — Few, if any, retirement systems for state employees have been as
well-managed as Mississippi's. Few, public or private, are as solid.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/24/4205604/charlie-mitchell-public-pensions.html
Press Releases
Regional Energy Board Selects Gov. Bryant as Chairman
OKLAHOMA CITY—The Southern States Energy Board today selected Gov. Phil
Bryant as its chairman, drawing on Mississippi's position as an energy
leader in the region. Bryant will serve a one-year term following outgoing
chair Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin.
The Southern States Energy Board is a bipartisan, interstate compact that
includes governors and state legislators from the 16 Southern states,
Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as three non-voting board
members. The group promotes energy-based economic development, innovation,
programs and policies.
"Mississippi is a leader in the energy sector because of our diversity of
resources and our proactive approach to providing infrastructure for this
industry, and I believe that we have only just scratched the surface of
energy growth in our state," Bryant said.
"The Southern States Energy Board helps promote pro-energy legislation,
encourages job creation and innovation and works to reduce our dependence
on foreign energy sources while preserving our environment.
"For our nation to become more energy independent, we must recognize the
importance of a forward-thinking approach to energy and continue to develop
a comprehensive energy policy that works.
"It is an honor to serve as chairman of this organization, and I look
forward to working with board members to advance energy leadership in the
South."
Southern States Energy Board Executive Director Ken Nemeth said Bryant's
leadership in directing Mississippi's energy resources makes him uniquely
suited to serve as chairman of the organization.
"Mississippi is the crossroads of the nation with respect to energy policy
and technologies," Nemeth said. "Oil and natural gas production, nuclear
power, biomass, lignite coal, carbon capture and sequestration, renewables
and pipelines make up a diverse energy portfolio in the state.
"The Southern States Energy Board has just elected Gov. Phil Bryant as its
chairman because he is a new, dynamic southern leader who understands how
to marshal a profusion of energy resources while protecting our
environmental assets and reserves. Gov. Bryant's energy plan is a vibrant
example of how states should manage their resources efficiently and with
public confidence. His chairmanship of the Southern States Energy Board
will give other states the opportunity to benefit from his leadership!"
Bryant's election as chairman comes just ahead of his Governor's Energy
Summit planned for Oct. 4 in Jackson. The one-day summit will bring
together industry experts to explore Mississippi's energy future and
features a keynote address by former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani.
For more information about the Southern States Energy Board, visit
http://www.sseb.org.
For more information the Governor's Energy Summit, visit
http://mississippi.cvent.com/EnergySummit2012.
###
CONTACT:
Molly Hooven
Hooven.Molly@epa.gov
202-564-2313
202-564-4355
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2012
EPA Honors Organizations for Supporting Green Power
WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) presented
its 12th annual Green Power Leadership Awards to 24 Green Power Partners
and three suppliers for their achievements in advancing the nation's
renewable electricity market. For most municipalities, electricity usage is
the single-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. By using green
power, communities and businesses can dramatically reduce greenhouse gas
emissions, create local jobs, and improve public health.
"Our 2012 Green Power Leadership Award winners have not only demonstrated
commendable civic leadership in their efforts to use renewable energy
sources, they've also helped to reduce our carbon footprint and cut back on
pollution – all while supporting America's growing renewable energy
industry," said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "Thanks to their
commitment -- and the commitment of all of our Green Power Partners -- our
country is one step closer to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future."
"Green power" is electricity generated from renewable resources, such as
solar, wind, geothermal, biogas and low-impact hydro, and produces no net
increase of greenhouse gas emissions. From purchasing 100-percent green
power to installing large-scale solar panel arrays, the award winners help
demonstrate that green power makes sense not only for Americans' health and
environment but for business' bottom lines.
The 2012 Green Power Leadership Award winners are listed below in the
following categories:
First-ever Sustained Excellence in Green Power: Intel Corporation, Kohl's
Department Stores, Staples, and Whole Foods Market
Green Power Partner of the Year: City of Austin, Texas; Hilton Worldwide;
Microsoft Corporation; and the University of Oklahoma
Green Power Community of the Year: Beaverton, Ore. and Oak Park, Ill.
Green Power Purchasing: American University; Bloomberg L.P.; City of
Philadelphia, Pa.; Hobart and William Smith Colleges; Kettle Foods;
Lockheed Martin; McDonald's USA, LLC; MOM's Organic Market; NYSE Euronext;
Quinnipiac University; TD Bank; and The North Face
On-site Generation: Coca-Cola Refreshments and Zotos International, Inc.
Green Power Supplier of the Year: Renewable Choice Energy and Sterling
Planet
Innovative Green Power Program of the Year: Wellesley Municipal Light Plant
The 24 award-winning partners were chosen from more than 1,300 partner
organizations. Utilities, renewable energy project developers and other
green power suppliers were eligible to apply for the Supplier of the Year
and Program of the Year awards.
EPA also announced the winners of the second annual Green Power Community
Challenge, a national competition between communities to use renewable
energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to the Green Power
Community of the Year award, Oak Park, Ill. also won the community
challenge for achieving the highest green power percentage of total
electricity use at 92 percent. Washington, D.C. also won the challenge for
a second year in a row for using the most green power annually with more
than one billion kilowatt-hours (kWh).
EPA, through the Green Power Partnership, works with partner organizations,
over half of which are small businesses and nonprofit organizations, to
reduce the environmental impacts of conventional electricity use. Partners
are voluntarily using more than 23 billion kWh of green power annually.
Through their use of green power, these organizations are avoiding carbon
pollution equal to that created by the electricity use of more than two
million average American homes each year.
More on the Green Power Leadership Awards:
http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/awards/winners.htm
More on the Green Power Community Challenge:
www.epa.gov/greenpower/communities/gpcchallenge.htm
More on the Green Power Partnership: www.epa.gov/greenpower
Gulf Coast RESTORE Act Consortium Approved
WMBB
Bay County, Fla. -
Commissioners across the Gulf Coast reached a significant milestone when
they created the Gulf Coast Consortium. The consortium is a public agency
that will act in the interest of the counties once the BP fines start
flowing, but what's holding them back is the disbursement of funds.
http://www.wmbb.com/story/19629081/gulf-coast-restore-act-consortium-approved
Reef research center to help unlock, preserve sea treasures
By Ariel Barkhurst
Sun Sentinel
In a $50 million five-story brick and glass building in John U. Lloyd Beach
State Park, researchers are taking the biomass of crustaceans to help study
the effects of the Deepwater Horizon disaster, cultivating asexual staghorn
coral and sequencing the genomes of sponges.
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/fl-nsu-reef-research-center-20120920-15,0,2575442.story
State News
Joe's Bayou closed because of sewerage spill
By SUN HERALD
The state Department of Environmental Quality issued a temporary water
contact advisory Monday for Joe's Bayou
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/24/4205603/joes-bayou-closed-because-of-sewerage.html
Ingalls Shipbuilding pays $33,775 for portable toilet that emptied
untreated wastewater into Pascagoula River
Monday, September 24, 2012, 3:29 PM
By The Associated Press
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- Ingalls Shipbuilding has paid a $33,775 fine
after a portable toilet dumped untreated waste into the East Pascagoula
River for more than six years.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/ingalls_shipbuilding_pays_3377.html
Homeowners protest expansion of Hinds Co. landfill
WLBT
A group of homeowners who live south of Clinton are protesting the proposed
expansion of a landfill in Hinds County.
http://www.wlbt.com/story/19628244/homeowners-protest-expansion-of-hinds-co-landfill
City seeks comments on grant application
Hattiesburg American
The city of Hattiesburg is soliciting comments from residents through Oct.
16 concerning its bid for an U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 2013
grant.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20120925/NEWS01/209250311/City-seeks-comments-grant-application
Beach cleanup, damage assessment continues in Ocean Springs, Pascagoula
Monday, September 24, 2012, 3:50 PM
By Kaija Wilkinson
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- Jackson County crews began post-Hurricane Isaac
cleanup of Pascagoula Beach this morning and should be finished by Tuesday,
according to county roads manager Joe O'Neal.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/back_to_the_beach_jackson_coun.html
What comes down must be picked up: City, county storm cleanup under way
Natchez Democrat
Published 12:02amTuesday, September 25, 2012
NATCHEZ — Nearly a month after Tropical Storm Isaac crawled through the
Miss-Lou, cleanup of
storm debris is not yet done.
http://www.natchezdemocrat.com/2012/09/25/what-comes-down-must-be-picked-up-city-county-storm-cleanup-under-way/
Experimental Project to Rebuild Biloxi Dunes Expanding
MPB
PUBLISHED BY RHONDA MILLER ON 24 SEP 2012 11:37PM
Scientists at Mississippi State University say the dunes they're rebuilding
on a Biloxi beach survived the test of Hurricane Isaac. MPB's Rhonda Miller
reports the beach experiment uses a simple and inexpensive way to stop
coastal erosion.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/experimental_project_to_rebuild_biloxi_dunes_expanding
Drug Take Back Day is Saturday
Hattiesburg American
The Hattiesburg Police Department is collaborating with the Drug
Enforcement Agency in the National Prescription Drug Take Back Program.
http://www.hattiesburgamerican.com/article/20120925/NEWS01/209250315/Drug-Take-Back-Day-Saturday
Gov. Phil Bryant named chairman of Regional Energy Board
Monday, September 24, 2012, 4:41 PM
By Mississippi Press Staff
OKLAHOMA CITY, Oklahoma -- Gov. Phil Bryant was named chairman of the
Southern States Energy Board today, slated to serve a one-year term
following outgoing chair Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/gov_phil_bryant_named_chairman.html
Farm Bill Set to Expire, Concerns Some Miss. Farmers
MPB
PUBLISHED BY DANIEL CHERRY ON 24 SEP 2012 06:09PM
The current U.S. Farm Bill will expire in five days, most likely without an
extension or a new version. MPB's Daniel Cherry reports how that's breeding
discontent among Mississippians in the agriculture industry.
http://mpbonline.org/News/article/715farm_bill_set_to_expire_concerns_some_miss._farmers
Isaac's toll on Mississippi crops far less than damage in Louisiana
by Ted Carter
Published: September 23,2012
Just how much damage Hurricane Isaac did to crops in the southern portion
of the state has yet to be fully determined.
http://msbusiness.com/2012/09/isaacs-toll-on-mississippi-crops-far-less-than-damage-in-louisiana/
Hairston named chairman of Gaming Commission
Sun Herald
Gov. Phil Bryant has appointed John Hairston as chairman of the Mississippi
Gaming Commission, effective Oct. 1.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/24/4204842/hairston-named-chairman-of-gaming.html
Good news for state employees, jury still out on plan's math
by MBJ Staff
Published: September 23,2012
In a move that will make everyone who works for Mississippi feel better,
state government will be asked to put $44 million more into the Mississippi
retirement system next year to shore up the program for an estimated 30
years, the system director has told lawmakers.
http://msbusiness.com/2012/09/good-news-for-state-employees-jury-still-out-on-plans-math/
National News
Judge dismisses New York's anti-drilling lawsuit
Reuters
By Jessica Dye
NEW YORK (Reuters) - A federal judge in Brooklyn dismissed a lawsuit on
Monday brought by New York state and environmental groups challenging
proposed natural gas drilling in the Delaware River basin.
http://in.reuters.com/article/2012/09/24/us-fracking-dismissal-idINBRE88N14520120924
Opinion
CHARLIE MITCHELL: Public pensions a sacred trust in Mississippi, for now
Sun Herald
OXFORD — Few, if any, retirement systems for state employees have been as
well-managed as Mississippi's. Few, public or private, are as solid.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/24/4205604/charlie-mitchell-public-pensions.html
Press Releases
Regional Energy Board Selects Gov. Bryant as Chairman
OKLAHOMA CITY—The Southern States Energy Board today selected Gov. Phil
Bryant as its chairman, drawing on Mississippi's position as an energy
leader in the region. Bryant will serve a one-year term following outgoing
chair Oklahoma Gov. Mary Fallin.
The Southern States Energy Board is a bipartisan, interstate compact that
includes governors and state legislators from the 16 Southern states,
Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, as well as three non-voting board
members. The group promotes energy-based economic development, innovation,
programs and policies.
"Mississippi is a leader in the energy sector because of our diversity of
resources and our proactive approach to providing infrastructure for this
industry, and I believe that we have only just scratched the surface of
energy growth in our state," Bryant said.
"The Southern States Energy Board helps promote pro-energy legislation,
encourages job creation and innovation and works to reduce our dependence
on foreign energy sources while preserving our environment.
"For our nation to become more energy independent, we must recognize the
importance of a forward-thinking approach to energy and continue to develop
a comprehensive energy policy that works.
"It is an honor to serve as chairman of this organization, and I look
forward to working with board members to advance energy leadership in the
South."
Southern States Energy Board Executive Director Ken Nemeth said Bryant's
leadership in directing Mississippi's energy resources makes him uniquely
suited to serve as chairman of the organization.
"Mississippi is the crossroads of the nation with respect to energy policy
and technologies," Nemeth said. "Oil and natural gas production, nuclear
power, biomass, lignite coal, carbon capture and sequestration, renewables
and pipelines make up a diverse energy portfolio in the state.
"The Southern States Energy Board has just elected Gov. Phil Bryant as its
chairman because he is a new, dynamic southern leader who understands how
to marshal a profusion of energy resources while protecting our
environmental assets and reserves. Gov. Bryant's energy plan is a vibrant
example of how states should manage their resources efficiently and with
public confidence. His chairmanship of the Southern States Energy Board
will give other states the opportunity to benefit from his leadership!"
Bryant's election as chairman comes just ahead of his Governor's Energy
Summit planned for Oct. 4 in Jackson. The one-day summit will bring
together industry experts to explore Mississippi's energy future and
features a keynote address by former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani.
For more information about the Southern States Energy Board, visit
http://www.sseb.org.
For more information the Governor's Energy Summit, visit
http://mississippi.cvent.com/EnergySummit2012.
###
CONTACT:
Molly Hooven
Hooven.Molly@epa.gov
202-564-2313
202-564-4355
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 24, 2012
EPA Honors Organizations for Supporting Green Power
WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) presented
its 12th annual Green Power Leadership Awards to 24 Green Power Partners
and three suppliers for their achievements in advancing the nation's
renewable electricity market. For most municipalities, electricity usage is
the single-largest source of greenhouse gas emissions. By using green
power, communities and businesses can dramatically reduce greenhouse gas
emissions, create local jobs, and improve public health.
"Our 2012 Green Power Leadership Award winners have not only demonstrated
commendable civic leadership in their efforts to use renewable energy
sources, they've also helped to reduce our carbon footprint and cut back on
pollution – all while supporting America's growing renewable energy
industry," said EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson. "Thanks to their
commitment -- and the commitment of all of our Green Power Partners -- our
country is one step closer to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future."
"Green power" is electricity generated from renewable resources, such as
solar, wind, geothermal, biogas and low-impact hydro, and produces no net
increase of greenhouse gas emissions. From purchasing 100-percent green
power to installing large-scale solar panel arrays, the award winners help
demonstrate that green power makes sense not only for Americans' health and
environment but for business' bottom lines.
The 2012 Green Power Leadership Award winners are listed below in the
following categories:
First-ever Sustained Excellence in Green Power: Intel Corporation, Kohl's
Department Stores, Staples, and Whole Foods Market
Green Power Partner of the Year: City of Austin, Texas; Hilton Worldwide;
Microsoft Corporation; and the University of Oklahoma
Green Power Community of the Year: Beaverton, Ore. and Oak Park, Ill.
Green Power Purchasing: American University; Bloomberg L.P.; City of
Philadelphia, Pa.; Hobart and William Smith Colleges; Kettle Foods;
Lockheed Martin; McDonald's USA, LLC; MOM's Organic Market; NYSE Euronext;
Quinnipiac University; TD Bank; and The North Face
On-site Generation: Coca-Cola Refreshments and Zotos International, Inc.
Green Power Supplier of the Year: Renewable Choice Energy and Sterling
Planet
Innovative Green Power Program of the Year: Wellesley Municipal Light Plant
The 24 award-winning partners were chosen from more than 1,300 partner
organizations. Utilities, renewable energy project developers and other
green power suppliers were eligible to apply for the Supplier of the Year
and Program of the Year awards.
EPA also announced the winners of the second annual Green Power Community
Challenge, a national competition between communities to use renewable
energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In addition to the Green Power
Community of the Year award, Oak Park, Ill. also won the community
challenge for achieving the highest green power percentage of total
electricity use at 92 percent. Washington, D.C. also won the challenge for
a second year in a row for using the most green power annually with more
than one billion kilowatt-hours (kWh).
EPA, through the Green Power Partnership, works with partner organizations,
over half of which are small businesses and nonprofit organizations, to
reduce the environmental impacts of conventional electricity use. Partners
are voluntarily using more than 23 billion kWh of green power annually.
Through their use of green power, these organizations are avoiding carbon
pollution equal to that created by the electricity use of more than two
million average American homes each year.
More on the Green Power Leadership Awards:
http://www.epa.gov/greenpower/awards/winners.htm
More on the Green Power Community Challenge:
www.epa.gov/greenpower/communities/gpcchallenge.htm
More on the Green Power Partnership: www.epa.gov/greenpower
Monday, September 24, 2012
MDEQ ISSUES TEMPORARY ADVISORY FOR JOE’S BAYOU AND ADJACENT WATERS
STATE OF MISSISSIPPI
Phil Bryant, GOVERNOR
MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Trudy D. Fisher, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Robbie Wilbur
September 24, 2012 601/961-5277
MDEQ ISSUES TEMPORARY ADVISORY FOR JOE'S BAYOU AND ADJACENT WATERS
(JACKSON, Miss.) –The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
(MDEQ) issued a temporary water contact advisory Monday for Joe's Bayou
near Felicity Street in Bay St. Louis. The advisory is issued due to a
city-reported sewer spill which occurred Sunday night from a malfunctioning
pump station.
The advisory covers Joe's Bayou and adjacent waters in the Bay of St. Louis
from Cameron Island at Harrison Road near the mouth of the Jourdan River to
Dunbar Avenue.
MDEQ recommends that people avoid water contact recreation such as swimming
or wading in these waters. In addition, people should avoid eating fish or
anything else taken from these waters until further notice.
The City of Bay St. Louis has stopped the overflow and is working to make
permanent repairs to the pump station.
MDEQ staff will monitor bacteria levels and water quality and will revise
the advisory as needed.
# # #
(See attached file: BSLsewer.pdf)
Mr. Robbie Wilbur
Communications Director
Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
Post Office Box 2261
Jackson, Mississippi 39225
601/961-5277
601/421-5699 (c)
601/961-5715 (f)
rwilbur@deq.state.ms.us
Connect with MDEQ on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/MDEQ/118172664880239?v=wall
Follow MDEQ on Twitter
http://twitter.com/#!/MDEQ
Media Advisory -- GoCoast 2020 Commission Meeting September 26
MEDIA ADVISORY CONTACT: Robbie Wilbur
September 24, 2012 601-961-5277
GoCoast 2020 Commission Meeting September 26
(JACKSON, Miss.) – The GoCoast 2020 Commission will hold a meeting on
Wednesday, September 26, from 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Great Southern
Club in Gulfport. Each of the Commission's teams will provide an update on
its priorities. The media is welcome to attend.
GoCoast 2020 Commission Meeting
Wednesday, September 26, 11:45 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Great Southern Club
2510 14th Street, #1480, Gulfport, 39501
GoCoast 2020 was established by Governor Phil Bryant through executive
order to serve as the official advisory board for the allocation of funds
received by the State of Mississippi under the RESTORE Act. More
information on the Commission is available at www.gocoast2020.com.
# # #
(See attached file: magocoast.pdf)
Mr. Robbie Wilbur
Communications Director
Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
Post Office Box 2261
Jackson, Mississippi 39225
601/961-5277
601/421-5699 (c)
601/961-5715 (f)
rwilbur@deq.state.ms.us
Connect with MDEQ on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/MDEQ/118172664880239?v=wall
Follow MDEQ on Twitter
http://twitter.com/#!/MDEQ
News Clippings 9.24.12
Oil Spill
Government, BP challenge ruling limiting rig owner's liability in Gulf oil
spill
Emily Pickrell
© 2012 Houston Chronicle
Published: Friday, September 21, 2012 at 6:23 p.m.
The Justice Department and BP are appealing a court ruling limiting
Transocean's liability for oil spilled into the Gulf of Mexico in the 2010
Deepwater Horizon disaster.
http://www.dailycomet.com/article/20120921/WIRE/120929922
After Spill, Gulf Oil Drilling Rebounds
Production Dipped After Deepwater Horizon Disaster; New Finds Will Lift
Output 28% in a Decade
Wall Street Journal
After a steep drop in oil production in the wake of the Deepwater Horizon
disaster, the U.S. Gulf of Mexico is set for an energy boom.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10000872396390443890304578008573749823206.html
Cleaning up oil spills with magnets and nanotechnology
CNN
(CNN) -- Oil companies could soon be using an innovative new technique
involving nanotechnology and magnets to help clean up offshore oil spills.
http://www.cnn.com/2012/09/21/tech/oil-spill-magnets/index.html
State News
Don't stick others with your problem
Bolivar Commercial
by Rory Doyle
09.21.12 - 03:33 pm
South Street Pharmacy of Cleveland is taking part in a new medical sharps
disposal program instituted by the Mississippi Department of Environmental
Quality.
http://www.bolivarcom.com/view/full_story/20233342/article-Don-t-stick-others-with-your-problem?instance=main_article
Beach-erosion experiment passes Isaac's test; scientists 'elated'
by MBJ Staff
Published: September 24,2012
MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST — Scientists at Mississippi State University have
been working to find an inexpensive, attractive way to keep the sand on the
26 miles of manmade beach between Biloxi and Pass Christian, and Hurricane
Isaac tested their experimental site.
http://msbusiness.com/2012/09/beach-erosion-experiment-passes-isaacs-test-scientists-elated/
Beach back for one final summer fling
WLOX
On the last Friday of summer, beach lovers get a bit of a reprieve.
A second section of Biloxi's waterfront is once again open to the public.
Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality tests show the area between
Travia Street to Iberville Drive is safe. Therefore, that area will reopen
on Friday morning.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19603389/beach-back-for-one-final-summer-fling
Court ruling allows beach clean up in Ocean Springs
WLOX
Jackson County work crews began removing Hurricane Isaac storm debris from
the beaches of Ocean Springs early Friday morning. The post-storm clean-up
was delayed because the issue of beach ownership is involved in an ongoing
court case.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19605216/court-ruling-allows-beach-clean-up-in-ocean-springs
Ocean Springs, Pascagoula beaches to be cleaned after judge's ruling
Friday, September 21, 2012, 11:18 AM
By April M. Havens, The Mississippi Press
OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi -- Jackson County road crews are out cleaning
Front Beach in Ocean Springs today, Supervisor John McKay said, after
Special Chancellor Robert Lancaster gave the county the go-ahead.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/ocean_springs_pascagoula_beach.html
Long Beach alderman wants hurricane trash ordinance
WLOX
We are still months away from the end of hurricane season and should a
major hurricane bear down on the coast, a Long Beach aldermen believes
damage caused by a neighbor's unsecured trash shouldn't be a worry.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19613765/long-beach-alderman-wants-hurricane-trash-ordinance
FEMA approves more than $11 million statewide in Isaac disaster recovery
Published: Sunday, September 23, 2012, 6:05 AM
By Beverly Tuskan, The Mississippi Press
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- In the wake of Hurricane Isaac, the Federal
Emergency Management Agency has approved $11,133,436 in statewide federal
grant assistance, FEMA spokesman Tim Tyson said.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/fema_approves_more_than_11_mil.html
WPPD To Collect Unwanted Prescription Drugs
Daily Times Leader
The WPPD has already collected a box load of old prescription medications
and will open the WPPD this Saturday for residents to drop off more
unwanted meds.
http://www.dailytimesleader.com/content/wppd-collect-unwanted-prescription-drugs
Volunteers want to help South Mississippi's wildlife
WLOX
It has been helping rescue and rehabilitate injured animals for more than a
decade. Sunday the Wildlife Care and Rescue Center held a volunteer calling
at Camp Wilkes in Biloxi, hoping to attract people who share the same love
and passion it does for South Mississippi's wildlife.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19617748/volunteers-want-to-help-south-mississippis-wildlife
National News
EPA investigators launch criminal investigation into Calif. refinery,
unrelated to Aug. fire
By Associated Press, Published: September 23
RICHMOND, Calif. — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is conducting a
criminal investigation of Chevron after learning the company had been
routing pollutants around monitoring equipment at its Richmond refinery and
burning them off into the atmosphere.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/epa-investigators-launch-criminal-investigation-into-calif-refinery-unrelated-to-aug-fire/2012/09/23/33712d52-05ca-11e2-9eea-333857f6a7bd_print.html
EPA replaces 'crucify' administrator
Politico
By: Erica Martinson
September 24, 2012 04:32 AM EDT
Ron Curry, an academic and former New Mexico Cabinet secretary for the
environment, has been appointed as the new administrator of the
Environmental Protection Agency's Region 6, EPA chief Lisa Jackson told
staff Friday in an email.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0912/81573.html?hp=r14
Christie vetoes fracking wastewater ban
Associated Press
TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Chris Christie vetoed a bill Friday that would have
banned wastewater generated by gas drilling from being treated or disposed
of in New Jersey.
http://online.wsj.com/article/AP070bafcb3424410a967ecc0fe54492cb.html
How 'Silent Spring' Ignited the Environmental Movement
NY Times Magazine
By ELIZA GRISWOLD
On June 4, 1963, less than a year after the controversial environmental
classic "Silent Spring" was published, its author, Rachel Carson, testified
before a Senate subcommittee on pesticides. She was 56 and dying of breast
cancer. She told almost no one. She'd already survived a radical
mastectomy. Her pelvis was so riddled with fractures that it was nearly
impossible for her to walk to her seat at the wooden table before the
Congressional panel. To hide her baldness, she wore a dark brown wig.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/23/magazine/how-silent-spring-ignited-the-environmental-movement.html?ref=earth&_r=0&pagewanted=print
Pension Crisis Looms Despite Cuts
Almost Every State Trims Public-Employee Benefits but $900 Billion
Retirement Funding Gap Remains
Wall Street Journal
By MICHAEL CORKERY
Almost every state in the U.S. has made cuts to its public-employee
pensions, seeking to dig out from the economic downturn, but so far the
measures have fallen well short of bridging a nearly $1 trillion funding
gap.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10000872396390443890304578010752828935688.html
Opinion
Hurricane Isaac showed that BP oil-spill woes remain
Sunday, September 23, 2012, 8:56 PM
By Bob Marshall, The Times-Picayune
It's been three weeks since Hurricane Isaac punched up the region, but a
12-mile section of our coast from Caminada Pass to Pass Fourchon remains
closed to fishing -- and any other activities.
http://www.nola.com/sports/index.ssf/2012/09/hurricane_isaac_showed_that_bp.html
After Hurricane Isaac, a chance to finish cleaning up beaches: Mike Utsler
Published: Saturday, September 22, 2012, 7:40 AM
By Contributing Op-Ed columnist
Isaac was the first hurricane to strike the Gulf Coast region since the
Deepwater Horizon accident of 2010. There were predictions that substantial
amounts of residual oil related to the accident would wash ashore, setting
back the area's recovery efforts.
http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2012/09/after_hurricane_isaac_a_chance.html
Make sure BP does its job
Editorial – Houma Today
Published: Saturday, September 22, 2012 at 10:44 p.m.
The long and frustrating effort to get BP to sufficiently clean up the oil
that remains on and near Louisiana's coast has not gotten any easier since
Hurricane Isaac.
http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20120922/OPINION/120929894/-1/opinion?Title=Make-sure-BP-does-its-job
Ten Reasons To Care That E15 Ethanol Is On The Way To Your Gas Station
Forbes
In August, the U.S. Court of Appeals rejected a challenge by automakers and
other groups seeking to overturn the EPA's previous approval of E15
automotive fuel containing 50% more ethanol. Brought forth by the Alliance
of Automobile Manufacturers, Global Automakers, the Grocery Manufacturers
Association and the petroleum industry, the suit charged that the provision
would likely cause a "concrete" and "imminent" injury to any automaker,
refiner or food processor.
http://www.forbes.com/sites/larrybell/2012/09/23/ten-reasons-to-care-that-e15-ethanol-is-on-the-way-to-your-gas-station/
Government, BP challenge ruling limiting rig owner's liability in Gulf oil
spill
Emily Pickrell
© 2012 Houston Chronicle
Published: Friday, September 21, 2012 at 6:23 p.m.
The Justice Department and BP are appealing a court ruling limiting
Transocean's liability for oil spilled into the Gulf of Mexico in the 2010
Deepwater Horizon disaster.
http://www.dailycomet.com/article/20120921/WIRE/120929922
After Spill, Gulf Oil Drilling Rebounds
Production Dipped After Deepwater Horizon Disaster; New Finds Will Lift
Output 28% in a Decade
Wall Street Journal
After a steep drop in oil production in the wake of the Deepwater Horizon
disaster, the U.S. Gulf of Mexico is set for an energy boom.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10000872396390443890304578008573749823206.html
Cleaning up oil spills with magnets and nanotechnology
CNN
(CNN) -- Oil companies could soon be using an innovative new technique
involving nanotechnology and magnets to help clean up offshore oil spills.
http://www.cnn.com/2012/09/21/tech/oil-spill-magnets/index.html
State News
Don't stick others with your problem
Bolivar Commercial
by Rory Doyle
09.21.12 - 03:33 pm
South Street Pharmacy of Cleveland is taking part in a new medical sharps
disposal program instituted by the Mississippi Department of Environmental
Quality.
http://www.bolivarcom.com/view/full_story/20233342/article-Don-t-stick-others-with-your-problem?instance=main_article
Beach-erosion experiment passes Isaac's test; scientists 'elated'
by MBJ Staff
Published: September 24,2012
MISSISSIPPI GULF COAST — Scientists at Mississippi State University have
been working to find an inexpensive, attractive way to keep the sand on the
26 miles of manmade beach between Biloxi and Pass Christian, and Hurricane
Isaac tested their experimental site.
http://msbusiness.com/2012/09/beach-erosion-experiment-passes-isaacs-test-scientists-elated/
Beach back for one final summer fling
WLOX
On the last Friday of summer, beach lovers get a bit of a reprieve.
A second section of Biloxi's waterfront is once again open to the public.
Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality tests show the area between
Travia Street to Iberville Drive is safe. Therefore, that area will reopen
on Friday morning.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19603389/beach-back-for-one-final-summer-fling
Court ruling allows beach clean up in Ocean Springs
WLOX
Jackson County work crews began removing Hurricane Isaac storm debris from
the beaches of Ocean Springs early Friday morning. The post-storm clean-up
was delayed because the issue of beach ownership is involved in an ongoing
court case.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19605216/court-ruling-allows-beach-clean-up-in-ocean-springs
Ocean Springs, Pascagoula beaches to be cleaned after judge's ruling
Friday, September 21, 2012, 11:18 AM
By April M. Havens, The Mississippi Press
OCEAN SPRINGS, Mississippi -- Jackson County road crews are out cleaning
Front Beach in Ocean Springs today, Supervisor John McKay said, after
Special Chancellor Robert Lancaster gave the county the go-ahead.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/ocean_springs_pascagoula_beach.html
Long Beach alderman wants hurricane trash ordinance
WLOX
We are still months away from the end of hurricane season and should a
major hurricane bear down on the coast, a Long Beach aldermen believes
damage caused by a neighbor's unsecured trash shouldn't be a worry.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19613765/long-beach-alderman-wants-hurricane-trash-ordinance
FEMA approves more than $11 million statewide in Isaac disaster recovery
Published: Sunday, September 23, 2012, 6:05 AM
By Beverly Tuskan, The Mississippi Press
PASCAGOULA, Mississippi -- In the wake of Hurricane Isaac, the Federal
Emergency Management Agency has approved $11,133,436 in statewide federal
grant assistance, FEMA spokesman Tim Tyson said.
http://blog.gulflive.com/mississippi-press-news/2012/09/fema_approves_more_than_11_mil.html
WPPD To Collect Unwanted Prescription Drugs
Daily Times Leader
The WPPD has already collected a box load of old prescription medications
and will open the WPPD this Saturday for residents to drop off more
unwanted meds.
http://www.dailytimesleader.com/content/wppd-collect-unwanted-prescription-drugs
Volunteers want to help South Mississippi's wildlife
WLOX
It has been helping rescue and rehabilitate injured animals for more than a
decade. Sunday the Wildlife Care and Rescue Center held a volunteer calling
at Camp Wilkes in Biloxi, hoping to attract people who share the same love
and passion it does for South Mississippi's wildlife.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19617748/volunteers-want-to-help-south-mississippis-wildlife
National News
EPA investigators launch criminal investigation into Calif. refinery,
unrelated to Aug. fire
By Associated Press, Published: September 23
RICHMOND, Calif. — The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is conducting a
criminal investigation of Chevron after learning the company had been
routing pollutants around monitoring equipment at its Richmond refinery and
burning them off into the atmosphere.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/business/epa-investigators-launch-criminal-investigation-into-calif-refinery-unrelated-to-aug-fire/2012/09/23/33712d52-05ca-11e2-9eea-333857f6a7bd_print.html
EPA replaces 'crucify' administrator
Politico
By: Erica Martinson
September 24, 2012 04:32 AM EDT
Ron Curry, an academic and former New Mexico Cabinet secretary for the
environment, has been appointed as the new administrator of the
Environmental Protection Agency's Region 6, EPA chief Lisa Jackson told
staff Friday in an email.
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0912/81573.html?hp=r14
Christie vetoes fracking wastewater ban
Associated Press
TRENTON, N.J. — Gov. Chris Christie vetoed a bill Friday that would have
banned wastewater generated by gas drilling from being treated or disposed
of in New Jersey.
http://online.wsj.com/article/AP070bafcb3424410a967ecc0fe54492cb.html
How 'Silent Spring' Ignited the Environmental Movement
NY Times Magazine
By ELIZA GRISWOLD
On June 4, 1963, less than a year after the controversial environmental
classic "Silent Spring" was published, its author, Rachel Carson, testified
before a Senate subcommittee on pesticides. She was 56 and dying of breast
cancer. She told almost no one. She'd already survived a radical
mastectomy. Her pelvis was so riddled with fractures that it was nearly
impossible for her to walk to her seat at the wooden table before the
Congressional panel. To hide her baldness, she wore a dark brown wig.
http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/23/magazine/how-silent-spring-ignited-the-environmental-movement.html?ref=earth&_r=0&pagewanted=print
Pension Crisis Looms Despite Cuts
Almost Every State Trims Public-Employee Benefits but $900 Billion
Retirement Funding Gap Remains
Wall Street Journal
By MICHAEL CORKERY
Almost every state in the U.S. has made cuts to its public-employee
pensions, seeking to dig out from the economic downturn, but so far the
measures have fallen well short of bridging a nearly $1 trillion funding
gap.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10000872396390443890304578010752828935688.html
Opinion
Hurricane Isaac showed that BP oil-spill woes remain
Sunday, September 23, 2012, 8:56 PM
By Bob Marshall, The Times-Picayune
It's been three weeks since Hurricane Isaac punched up the region, but a
12-mile section of our coast from Caminada Pass to Pass Fourchon remains
closed to fishing -- and any other activities.
http://www.nola.com/sports/index.ssf/2012/09/hurricane_isaac_showed_that_bp.html
After Hurricane Isaac, a chance to finish cleaning up beaches: Mike Utsler
Published: Saturday, September 22, 2012, 7:40 AM
By Contributing Op-Ed columnist
Isaac was the first hurricane to strike the Gulf Coast region since the
Deepwater Horizon accident of 2010. There were predictions that substantial
amounts of residual oil related to the accident would wash ashore, setting
back the area's recovery efforts.
http://www.nola.com/opinions/index.ssf/2012/09/after_hurricane_isaac_a_chance.html
Make sure BP does its job
Editorial – Houma Today
Published: Saturday, September 22, 2012 at 10:44 p.m.
The long and frustrating effort to get BP to sufficiently clean up the oil
that remains on and near Louisiana's coast has not gotten any easier since
Hurricane Isaac.
http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20120922/OPINION/120929894/-1/opinion?Title=Make-sure-BP-does-its-job
Ten Reasons To Care That E15 Ethanol Is On The Way To Your Gas Station
Forbes
In August, the U.S. Court of Appeals rejected a challenge by automakers and
other groups seeking to overturn the EPA's previous approval of E15
automotive fuel containing 50% more ethanol. Brought forth by the Alliance
of Automobile Manufacturers, Global Automakers, the Grocery Manufacturers
Association and the petroleum industry, the suit charged that the provision
would likely cause a "concrete" and "imminent" injury to any automaker,
refiner or food processor.
http://www.forbes.com/sites/larrybell/2012/09/23/ten-reasons-to-care-that-e15-ethanol-is-on-the-way-to-your-gas-station/
MDEQ LAUNCHES NEW COMPOSTING PAGE
In an effort to promote and encourage more composting, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) has added a new and improved composting web page to the MDEQ website. This new web page provides important information and resources concerning home composting, MDEQ’s Pilot Composting Program for business and government operations, composting activities for kids, and much more. The web page also provides information on the benefits of composting and why this form of recycling organic materials is important for our state. The MDEQ composting web page can be accessed at the following link:
http://www.deq.state.ms.us/composting
Visit the new web page today to find more information on how to compost at your home or business. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the MDEQ Composting Program Manager, Jennifer Milner by phone: 601-961-5171 or by e-mail: Jennifer_Milner[at]deq.state.ms.us.
http://www.deq.state.ms.us/composting
Visit the new web page today to find more information on how to compost at your home or business. If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact the MDEQ Composting Program Manager, Jennifer Milner by phone: 601-961-5171 or by e-mail: Jennifer_Milner[at]deq.state.ms.us.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
DRUG TAKE BACK EVENT SEPTEMBER 29
Both local law enforcement agencies and the state’s citizens are being encouraged to participate in the upcoming drug take back events sponsored by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). This nationally-coordinated event takes place Saturday, September 29, 2012, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and will include various sites across Mississippi. Unwanted prescriptions and over-the-counter medicines can be brought to any of the participating locations so the drugs may be disposed of safely.
Removing unused medications from the home can help prevent intentional misuse and unintentional poisonings of children and pets. Dumping medications down the drain or flushing it down a toilet can become a source of water contamination. Research is continuing into whether such water contamination adversely impacts human health or aquatic life.
The most recent national drug take back event sponsored by the DEA was held in April 2012, and a record-breaking 552,161 pounds (276 tons) of unwanted or expired medications was collected at 5,659 sites across the country. More than 1.5 million pounds (774 tons) of unused medications have been removed from
circulation from the last four take back events.
Law enforcement agencies interested in hosting collection sites in conjunction with this national event should call the Mississippi Office of the U.S. DEA. The points of contact are Angela Lee at 601-965-8266 and Louis Lejarza at 504-840-1100. Event locations will be posted on the U.S. Department of Justice website in the coming weeks at: http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov.
Removing unused medications from the home can help prevent intentional misuse and unintentional poisonings of children and pets. Dumping medications down the drain or flushing it down a toilet can become a source of water contamination. Research is continuing into whether such water contamination adversely impacts human health or aquatic life.
The most recent national drug take back event sponsored by the DEA was held in April 2012, and a record-breaking 552,161 pounds (276 tons) of unwanted or expired medications was collected at 5,659 sites across the country. More than 1.5 million pounds (774 tons) of unused medications have been removed from
circulation from the last four take back events.
Law enforcement agencies interested in hosting collection sites in conjunction with this national event should call the Mississippi Office of the U.S. DEA. The points of contact are Angela Lee at 601-965-8266 and Louis Lejarza at 504-840-1100. Event locations will be posted on the U.S. Department of Justice website in the coming weeks at: http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov.
Friday, September 21, 2012
MDEQ LIFTS BEACH CLOSURES FOR SEVERAL STATIONS Nine Stations in Harrison and Jackson Counties Opened Friday
STATE OF MISSISSIPPI
Phil Bryant, GOVERNOR
MISSISSIPPI DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
Trudy D. Fisher, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Robbie Wilbur
September 21, 2012 601/961-5277
MDEQ LIFTS BEACH CLOSURES FOR SEVERAL STATIONS
Nine Stations in Harrison and Jackson Counties Opened Friday
(JACKSON, Miss.) -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
(MDEQ), through its Beach Monitoring Program, has lifted beach closures
issued August 31 for the following monitoring stations in Harrison and
Jackson Counties:
Harrison County:
Station 8 -- Gulfport West -- west end at Marie Avenue to the east end at
Camp Avenue;
Station 12 A -- Biloxi West Central -- extends from Travia Street on the
west to Iberville Drive on the east;
Station 12B -- Porter Avenue -- west end at St. Peter Street to the east
end at Dukate Street;
Station 13A -- Biloxi East -- west end at Dukate Street to east end at
Kuhn Street.
Jackson County:
Station 14 -- Front Beach – from the front of the Ocean Springs Yacht Club
to Jackson Avenue;
Station 15 -- Shearwater Beach -- from mouth of Weeks Bayou to Ashley
Place;
Station 17 -- St. Andrews Beach -- west end of the bulkhead to east end of
the bulkhead;
Station 19 -- Pascagoula West -- west end at Oliver Street to east end at
Westwood;
Station 20 -- Pascagoula East -- west end of Westwood to the east end at
Grand Oaks.
Water samples show the areas have attained acceptable bacteria levels. The
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, which performs water sampling of the
Mississippi Gulf Coast beaches for MDEQ, notifies the agency when an area
returns to acceptable levels and safe conditions.
For more information on what stations are open and closed, access the
Mississippi Beach Monitoring Program at:
http://www.usm.edu/gcrl/msbeach/index.cgi.
To receive beach advisories directly, send an email to
rwilbur@deq.state.ms.us for inclusion in a public group email list or
follow MDEQ on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/MDEQ.
# # #
(See attached file: beachliftsep21II.pdf)
Mr. Robbie Wilbur
Communications Director
Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
Post Office Box 2261
Jackson, Mississippi 39225
601/961-5277
601/421-5699 (c)
601/961-5715 (f)
rwilbur@deq.state.ms.us
Connect with MDEQ on Facebook
http://www.facebook.com/pages/MDEQ/118172664880239?v=wall
Follow MDEQ on Twitter
http://twitter.com/#!/MDEQ
News Clippings 9.21.12
Isaac
Moran: Judge 'clears the way' for Ocean Springs beach cleanup
Sun Herald
OCEAN SPRINGS -- A judge has clarified a previous ruling on the Ocean
Springs beachfront that should allow the city to proceed with its cleanup
of debris from Hurricane Isaac, Mayor Connie Moran said Thursday night.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/20/4199301/moss-points-rose-drive-residents.html
Supervisors hear debris report, let bridge contract
By David A. Farrell
The Picayune Item
POPLARVILLE — Les Dungan of Dungan Engineering of Picayune, told Pearl
River County supervisors on Wednesday that the cleanup was "well underway"
and that six work crews are in the field picking up storm debris and
hauling it to the central landfill at Millard. Dungan is the county's
monitor for the Hurricane Isaac cleanup.
http://picayuneitem.com/local/x403271828/Supervisors-hear-debris-report-let-bridge-contract
MS insurance losses from Isaac relatively small
AP
JACKSON, MS (AP) - Private insurers expect to pay more than $24.3 million
in claims in Mississippi as a result of Hurricane Isaac, Insurance
Commissioner Mike Chaney says.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19595933/ms-insurance-losses-from-isaac-relatively-small
Oil Spill
Virtually all Alabama tar balls from BP oil spill, new study shows
Published: Thursday, September 20, 2012, 9:55 PM
By The Associated Press
AUBURN, Ala. (AP) — A new chemical analysis shows that virtually all the
tar balls washing onto the Alabama coast are directly linked to the BP oil
spill more than two years ago.
http://blog.al.com/wire/2012/09/virtually_all_alabama_tar_ball.html
BP oil spill linked to tar on Gulf beaches after Hurricane Isaac
Updated: Friday, September 21, 2012, 7:00 AM
By Kathy Jumper, Press-Register
ORANGE BEACH, Alabama -- A new chemical analysis shows that virtually all
the tar balls now washing on to the Alabama coast are directly linked to
the BP oil spill of 2010.
http://blog.al.com/live/2012/09/bp_oil_spill_linked_to_tar_on.html
Seafood industry survives gulf oil spill
UPI
NEW ORLEANS, Sept. 20 (UPI) -- Figures from 2011 indicate a solid rebound
in fisheries production and revenue in Louisiana, despite fears of a
harvest devastated by the Deepwater oil spill.
http://www.upi.com/Business_News/2012/09/20/Seafood-industry-survives-gulf-oil-spill/UPI-25541348174665/?spt=hs&or=bn
Ex-prosecutor says companies should be charged with crimes for spill
Fuel Fix
Posted on September 21, 2012 at 7:00 am by Emily Pickrell
A former Justice Department official says BP, Transocean and Halliburton
should face criminal charges for the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill.
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2012/09/21/ex-prosecutor-says-companies-should-be-charged-with-crimes-for-spill/
State News
MS Insurance Comm. sold on propane to fuel state vehicles
WLBT
All kinds of vehicles were on display Thursday at the Mississippi
Agriculture and Forestry Museum. They all had one thing in common. They run
on propane gas.
http://www.wlbt.com/story/19598042/ms-insurance-comm-sold-on-propane-to-fuel-state-vehicles
New Propane Powered Technology
Fox40
The Mississippi Roadshow is showing off clean technology for fleets in the
state.
The propane auto gas roadshow is in town today allowing business owners and
drivers the opportunity to test drive propane auto-gas vehicles for
possible purchase. The alternative fuel is the most widely used in the
world and very cost effective. Event organizers say its also better for the
country.
http://www.fox40tv.com/news/local/story/New-Propane-Powered-Technology/tJl5jcoWXEmkDe6CfOF_ww.cspx
National News
US Chamber, others ask appeals court to uphold ruling against EPA in veto
of W.Va. mine permit
By Associated Press,
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and nine other business
groups say an appellate court should uphold a federal judge's ruling that
the Environmental Protection Agency overreached when it retroactively
vetoed water-pollution permits for one of West Virginia's largest
mountaintop removal mines.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/us-chamber-others-ask-appeals-court-to-uphold-ruling-against-epa-in-veto-of-wva-mine-permit/2012/09/20/8136960a-032a-11e2-9132-f2750cd65f97_story.html
Report: Climate change means taxpayers could pay for more disaster cleanups
The Hill
By Zack Colman - 09/20/12 12:25 PM ET
A trend of insurance companies backing away from extreme-weather-threatened
regions might leave taxpayers on the hook for more natural disaster cleanup
efforts, according to a report released Thursday.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/250697-report-taxpayers-may-pay-for-more-disaster-cleanups
Panel sets floor votes on climate science, EPA mine veto power
The HIll
By Ben Geman - 09/20/12 08:05 AM ET
House lawmakers will battle over climate science when they debate GOP
legislation to roll back White House policies that Republicans blame for
the coal industry's woes.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/250609-panel-sets-floor-votes-on-climate-science-epa-mine-veto
Nutrient reduction science assessment to provide roadmap for farmers
Agri News
By Jean Caspers-Simmet
DES MOINES —Iowa researchers are completing a nutrient reduction science
assessment that will guide efforts to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus that
are getting into the Mississippi River and contributing to Gulf of Mexico
hypoxia.
http://www.agrinews.com/nutrient/reduction/science/assessment/to/provide/roadmap/for/farmers/story-4855.html
Opinion
Fighting off the war on coal
Op-Ed, Politico
By: Rep. Fred Upton and Sen. Jim Inhofe
September 20, 2012 10:48 PM EDT
"When the work underground stops," a TV reporter in Boone County, W.Va.,
said last Friday, "everything above pays the price." She was reporting that
two local coal mines would soon start laying off workers. One was preparing
to lay off 116 miners in a matter of weeks, the second had yet to finalize
the number to be let go.V
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0912/81492.html?hp=l14
Press Releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Robbie Wilbur
September 21, 2012 601/961-5277
MDEQ LIFTS BEACH CLOSURE FOR ONE STATION IN BILOXI
(JACKSON, Miss.) -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
(MDEQ), through its Beach Monitoring Program, has lifted a beach closure
issued August 31 for the following monitoring station in Biloxi:
Station 12 A - Biloxi West Central (Rodenberg Avenue) -- extends from
Travia Street on the west to Iberville Drive on the east.
Water samples at this station show the area has attained acceptable
bacteria levels. The Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, which performs water
sampling of the Mississippi Gulf Coast beaches for MDEQ, notifies the
agency when an area returns to acceptable levels and safe conditions.
All other stations, except 11A, remain on advisory. Station 11A (Edgewater
Beach) was opened September 14. Testing has resumed at most stations
following Hurricane Isaac and MDEQ anticipates removing advisories for more
stations soon.
Information on the Mississippi Beach Monitoring Program is available at:
http://www.usm.edu/gcrl/msbeach/index.cgi.
To receive beach advisories directly, send an email to
rwilbur@deq.state.ms.us for inclusion in a public group email list or
follow MDEQ on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/MDEQ.
Electronics Manufacturers and Retailers Join EPA Challenge for Safe
Management of Used Electronics
WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency launched its
Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) Electronics Challenge, an initiative
to make protective electronics refurbishing and recycling practices the
industry standard. EPA Deputy Assistant Administrator for Solid Waste and
Emergency Response Lisa Feldt, joined by leaders from Best Buy, LG
Electronics, Panasonic, Samsung, Sharp, Sprint, and Staples, made the
announcement at Vintage Tech Recyclers, a certified electronics recycling
facility in Romeoville, Ill.
"Already, the United States generates almost 2.5 million tons of electronic
waste per year – and that number will only grow. Used electronics have
materials in them that can be recovered and recycled, reducing the economic
costs and environmental impacts of securing and processing new materials
for new products," said EPA Administrator Lisa. P. Jackson. "The SMM
Electronics Challenge will help us ensure that we are doing all we can to
repurpose or safely dispose of the cell phones, computers and other devices
we use every day – all while helping to build a robust market for
electronics recycling in the United States."
As the volume of used electronics continues to grow in the U.S. and the
world, so has the importance of safely managing and recycling used
electronics. Electronics are made of valuable resources such as precious
metals, copper, plastic and glass – all of which require energy to mine and
manufacture. Recycling or reusing these electronics conserves these
materials and prevents greenhouse gas emissions and other pollution.
By participating in the SMM Electronics Challenge, leaders in the
electronics industry are committing to send 100 percent of the used
electronics that they collect to third-party certified refurbishers and
recyclers and to increase the amount of used electronics they collect.
Through this challenge, EPA is providing a transparent and measurable way
for electronic companies to commit to safe and environmentally protective
practices for the refurbishment and recycling of used electronics, and
publically show progress toward recycling goals.
In order to be certified, recyclers must demonstrate to an accredited,
independent auditor that they meet specific standards to safely recycle and
manage used electronics. Third-party recyclers, including Vintage Tech
Recyclers, are expanding to meet growing demand for this accreditation.
Vintage Tech Recyclers attributes 80 percent of new jobs added in the last
two years to their third-party certification.
The Electronics Challenge supports President Obama's "National Strategy for
Electronics Stewardship" – a strategy for the responsible design,
purchasing, management and recycling of electronics to promote the growing
electronics recycling market and jobs of the future. In conjunction with
the release of the National Strategy in July of 2011, Dell, Sony and Sprint
committed to EPA to follow a set of responsible management practices with
their used electronics. The commitments of these three companies formed the
foundation from which the Electronics Challenge was developed.
More information on the EPA and industry collaboration:
http://www.epa.gov/smm
More information on the National Strategy:
http://www.epa.gov/wastes/conserve/materials/ecycling/taskforce/docs/strategy.pdf
More information on certified recycling:
http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/materials/ecycling/certification.htm
Moran: Judge 'clears the way' for Ocean Springs beach cleanup
Sun Herald
OCEAN SPRINGS -- A judge has clarified a previous ruling on the Ocean
Springs beachfront that should allow the city to proceed with its cleanup
of debris from Hurricane Isaac, Mayor Connie Moran said Thursday night.
http://www.sunherald.com/2012/09/20/4199301/moss-points-rose-drive-residents.html
Supervisors hear debris report, let bridge contract
By David A. Farrell
The Picayune Item
POPLARVILLE — Les Dungan of Dungan Engineering of Picayune, told Pearl
River County supervisors on Wednesday that the cleanup was "well underway"
and that six work crews are in the field picking up storm debris and
hauling it to the central landfill at Millard. Dungan is the county's
monitor for the Hurricane Isaac cleanup.
http://picayuneitem.com/local/x403271828/Supervisors-hear-debris-report-let-bridge-contract
MS insurance losses from Isaac relatively small
AP
JACKSON, MS (AP) - Private insurers expect to pay more than $24.3 million
in claims in Mississippi as a result of Hurricane Isaac, Insurance
Commissioner Mike Chaney says.
http://www.wlox.com/story/19595933/ms-insurance-losses-from-isaac-relatively-small
Oil Spill
Virtually all Alabama tar balls from BP oil spill, new study shows
Published: Thursday, September 20, 2012, 9:55 PM
By The Associated Press
AUBURN, Ala. (AP) — A new chemical analysis shows that virtually all the
tar balls washing onto the Alabama coast are directly linked to the BP oil
spill more than two years ago.
http://blog.al.com/wire/2012/09/virtually_all_alabama_tar_ball.html
BP oil spill linked to tar on Gulf beaches after Hurricane Isaac
Updated: Friday, September 21, 2012, 7:00 AM
By Kathy Jumper, Press-Register
ORANGE BEACH, Alabama -- A new chemical analysis shows that virtually all
the tar balls now washing on to the Alabama coast are directly linked to
the BP oil spill of 2010.
http://blog.al.com/live/2012/09/bp_oil_spill_linked_to_tar_on.html
Seafood industry survives gulf oil spill
UPI
NEW ORLEANS, Sept. 20 (UPI) -- Figures from 2011 indicate a solid rebound
in fisheries production and revenue in Louisiana, despite fears of a
harvest devastated by the Deepwater oil spill.
http://www.upi.com/Business_News/2012/09/20/Seafood-industry-survives-gulf-oil-spill/UPI-25541348174665/?spt=hs&or=bn
Ex-prosecutor says companies should be charged with crimes for spill
Fuel Fix
Posted on September 21, 2012 at 7:00 am by Emily Pickrell
A former Justice Department official says BP, Transocean and Halliburton
should face criminal charges for the 2010 Gulf of Mexico oil spill.
http://fuelfix.com/blog/2012/09/21/ex-prosecutor-says-companies-should-be-charged-with-crimes-for-spill/
State News
MS Insurance Comm. sold on propane to fuel state vehicles
WLBT
All kinds of vehicles were on display Thursday at the Mississippi
Agriculture and Forestry Museum. They all had one thing in common. They run
on propane gas.
http://www.wlbt.com/story/19598042/ms-insurance-comm-sold-on-propane-to-fuel-state-vehicles
New Propane Powered Technology
Fox40
The Mississippi Roadshow is showing off clean technology for fleets in the
state.
The propane auto gas roadshow is in town today allowing business owners and
drivers the opportunity to test drive propane auto-gas vehicles for
possible purchase. The alternative fuel is the most widely used in the
world and very cost effective. Event organizers say its also better for the
country.
http://www.fox40tv.com/news/local/story/New-Propane-Powered-Technology/tJl5jcoWXEmkDe6CfOF_ww.cspx
National News
US Chamber, others ask appeals court to uphold ruling against EPA in veto
of W.Va. mine permit
By Associated Press,
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The U.S. Chamber of Commerce and nine other business
groups say an appellate court should uphold a federal judge's ruling that
the Environmental Protection Agency overreached when it retroactively
vetoed water-pollution permits for one of West Virginia's largest
mountaintop removal mines.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/us-chamber-others-ask-appeals-court-to-uphold-ruling-against-epa-in-veto-of-wva-mine-permit/2012/09/20/8136960a-032a-11e2-9132-f2750cd65f97_story.html
Report: Climate change means taxpayers could pay for more disaster cleanups
The Hill
By Zack Colman - 09/20/12 12:25 PM ET
A trend of insurance companies backing away from extreme-weather-threatened
regions might leave taxpayers on the hook for more natural disaster cleanup
efforts, according to a report released Thursday.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/250697-report-taxpayers-may-pay-for-more-disaster-cleanups
Panel sets floor votes on climate science, EPA mine veto power
The HIll
By Ben Geman - 09/20/12 08:05 AM ET
House lawmakers will battle over climate science when they debate GOP
legislation to roll back White House policies that Republicans blame for
the coal industry's woes.
http://thehill.com/blogs/e2-wire/e2-wire/250609-panel-sets-floor-votes-on-climate-science-epa-mine-veto
Nutrient reduction science assessment to provide roadmap for farmers
Agri News
By Jean Caspers-Simmet
DES MOINES —Iowa researchers are completing a nutrient reduction science
assessment that will guide efforts to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus that
are getting into the Mississippi River and contributing to Gulf of Mexico
hypoxia.
http://www.agrinews.com/nutrient/reduction/science/assessment/to/provide/roadmap/for/farmers/story-4855.html
Opinion
Fighting off the war on coal
Op-Ed, Politico
By: Rep. Fred Upton and Sen. Jim Inhofe
September 20, 2012 10:48 PM EDT
"When the work underground stops," a TV reporter in Boone County, W.Va.,
said last Friday, "everything above pays the price." She was reporting that
two local coal mines would soon start laying off workers. One was preparing
to lay off 116 miners in a matter of weeks, the second had yet to finalize
the number to be let go.V
http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0912/81492.html?hp=l14
Press Releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Robbie Wilbur
September 21, 2012 601/961-5277
MDEQ LIFTS BEACH CLOSURE FOR ONE STATION IN BILOXI
(JACKSON, Miss.) -- The Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality
(MDEQ), through its Beach Monitoring Program, has lifted a beach closure
issued August 31 for the following monitoring station in Biloxi:
Station 12 A - Biloxi West Central (Rodenberg Avenue) -- extends from
Travia Street on the west to Iberville Drive on the east.
Water samples at this station show the area has attained acceptable
bacteria levels. The Gulf Coast Research Laboratory, which performs water
sampling of the Mississippi Gulf Coast beaches for MDEQ, notifies the
agency when an area returns to acceptable levels and safe conditions.
All other stations, except 11A, remain on advisory. Station 11A (Edgewater
Beach) was opened September 14. Testing has resumed at most stations
following Hurricane Isaac and MDEQ anticipates removing advisories for more
stations soon.
Information on the Mississippi Beach Monitoring Program is available at:
http://www.usm.edu/gcrl/msbeach/index.cgi.
To receive beach advisories directly, send an email to
rwilbur@deq.state.ms.us for inclusion in a public group email list or
follow MDEQ on Twitter at http://twitter.com/#!/MDEQ.
Electronics Manufacturers and Retailers Join EPA Challenge for Safe
Management of Used Electronics
WASHINGTON – Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency launched its
Sustainable Materials Management (SMM) Electronics Challenge, an initiative
to make protective electronics refurbishing and recycling practices the
industry standard. EPA Deputy Assistant Administrator for Solid Waste and
Emergency Response Lisa Feldt, joined by leaders from Best Buy, LG
Electronics, Panasonic, Samsung, Sharp, Sprint, and Staples, made the
announcement at Vintage Tech Recyclers, a certified electronics recycling
facility in Romeoville, Ill.
"Already, the United States generates almost 2.5 million tons of electronic
waste per year – and that number will only grow. Used electronics have
materials in them that can be recovered and recycled, reducing the economic
costs and environmental impacts of securing and processing new materials
for new products," said EPA Administrator Lisa. P. Jackson. "The SMM
Electronics Challenge will help us ensure that we are doing all we can to
repurpose or safely dispose of the cell phones, computers and other devices
we use every day – all while helping to build a robust market for
electronics recycling in the United States."
As the volume of used electronics continues to grow in the U.S. and the
world, so has the importance of safely managing and recycling used
electronics. Electronics are made of valuable resources such as precious
metals, copper, plastic and glass – all of which require energy to mine and
manufacture. Recycling or reusing these electronics conserves these
materials and prevents greenhouse gas emissions and other pollution.
By participating in the SMM Electronics Challenge, leaders in the
electronics industry are committing to send 100 percent of the used
electronics that they collect to third-party certified refurbishers and
recyclers and to increase the amount of used electronics they collect.
Through this challenge, EPA is providing a transparent and measurable way
for electronic companies to commit to safe and environmentally protective
practices for the refurbishment and recycling of used electronics, and
publically show progress toward recycling goals.
In order to be certified, recyclers must demonstrate to an accredited,
independent auditor that they meet specific standards to safely recycle and
manage used electronics. Third-party recyclers, including Vintage Tech
Recyclers, are expanding to meet growing demand for this accreditation.
Vintage Tech Recyclers attributes 80 percent of new jobs added in the last
two years to their third-party certification.
The Electronics Challenge supports President Obama's "National Strategy for
Electronics Stewardship" – a strategy for the responsible design,
purchasing, management and recycling of electronics to promote the growing
electronics recycling market and jobs of the future. In conjunction with
the release of the National Strategy in July of 2011, Dell, Sony and Sprint
committed to EPA to follow a set of responsible management practices with
their used electronics. The commitments of these three companies formed the
foundation from which the Electronics Challenge was developed.
More information on the EPA and industry collaboration:
http://www.epa.gov/smm
More information on the National Strategy:
http://www.epa.gov/wastes/conserve/materials/ecycling/taskforce/docs/strategy.pdf
More information on certified recycling:
http://www.epa.gov/osw/conserve/materials/ecycling/certification.htm
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