State
County Clean Up is a Positive Campaign Tactic
Picayune Item
http://www.picayuneitem.com/2015/04/county-cleanup-is-a-positive-campaign-tactic/
State high court orders trial in dispute over 2 Ocean Springs beach parcels
Sun Herald
JACKSON -- The state Supreme Court has overturned a ruling by a Jackson
County judge that denied the state's claim to two parcels of property on
East Beach in Ocean Springs.
http://www.sunherald.com/2015/04/02/6156971_state-high-court-orders-trial.html?rh=1
American Midstream gas pipeline in Miss., La. to be replaced
AP
VIDALIA, LA. — Residents of eastern Louisiana and southwest Mississippi
will hear April 13 about plans to upgrade a major natural gas pipeline.
http://www.sunherald.com/2015/04/03/6157326/american-midstream-gas-pipeline.html
Net metering to be considered
Presley touts energy program to Rotarians
DeSoto Times
By BOB BAKKEN
Published: Thursday, April 2, 2015 3:37 PM CDT
The Mississippi Public Service Commission (PSC) is expected next week to
take up a proposal to allow public comment on a plan to approve "net
metering," or the ability to charge back to utilities solar power produced
but not used by homeowners.
http://www.desototimes.com/articles/2015/04/02/news/local/doc551da7f39b0d8185182444.txt
Redfish harvest in Gulf waters would resume under NOAA proposal
Todd Masson
The Times-Picayune
April 02, 2015 at 11:49 AM
It's quaint now to think of how popular blackened redfish was back in the
1980s. Legendary New Orleans chef Paul Prudhomme got a cast-iron pan
white-hot, covered a redfish fillet with butter and spices and introduced
the world to a happy marriage of taste and texture.
http://www.nola.com/outdoors/index.ssf/2015/04/redfish_harvest_in_gulf_waters.html
National park maintenance backlog in Miss. hits $335M
Clarion Ledger
WASHINGTON – A $355 million backlog of maintenance work at national
parks in Mississippi has slowed repairs at some historic sites and
put off restoration work on important monuments, park officials
said.
http://www.clarionledger.com/story/news/2015/04/02/national-park-maintenance-backlog-miss-hits/70839198/
Oil Spill
Steps Coalition set to remember 5th anniversary of BP oil spill
WLOX
April 20 marks the fifth anniversary of the BP oil spill in the Gulf of
Mexico. In the years since that disaster, the Steps Coalition has been busy
advocating for victims of the spill and raising public awareness about its
long term impact.
http://www.wlox.com/story/28708764/steps-coalition-set-to-remember-5th-anniversary-of-bp-oil-spill
Environmental Defense Fund To Monitor Restore Act Projects
WWNO
As the five-year anniversary approaches later this month of the BP oil
spill, the Environmental Defense Fund is gearing up for monitoring how
restoration money is used to repair damage.
http://wwno.org/post/environmental-defense-fund-monitor-restore-act-projects
Deepwater horizon oil spill: Jury to decide Alabama's Gulf-oil-spill claims
The Associated Press
April 02, 2015 at 11:00 AM
NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- Alabama Attorney General Luther Strange hailed a ruling
that said Alabama's Gulf oil-spill-damage claims under the federal Oil
Pollution Act can be heard by a jury.
http://www.gulflive.com/news/index.ssf/2015/04/deepwater_horizon_oil_spill_ju.html#incart_river
Councilman questions spending on 'poster child' of the BP oil spill
WVUE
GPS technology commonly used by boats fails to keep pace with Louisiana
land loss.
http://www.fox8live.com/story/28712083/councilman-questions-spending-on-poster-child-of-the-bp-oil-spill
National
Republican Senators Seek Detailed Answers on EPA Climate Change Science,
Modeling
Bloomberg
Four Republican senators are seeking additional information from the
Environmental Protection Agency on the science linking climate change to
drought, hurricanes and increased temperatures, including an analysis of
climate change modeling results.
http://www.bna.com/republican-senators-seek-n17179924903/
EPA restricts pesticide that could harm bees
The Hill
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is restricting new products and
uses of neonicotinoid pesticides that have been blamed for declines in bee
populations.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/237765-epa-restricts-pesticide-that-could-harm-bees
New regs for Friday
The Hill
Renewable fuel standard: The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is
moving forward with changes to the cellulosic waiver credit under the
renewable fuel standard.
The rule will clarify how the EPA sets the price of the cellulosic waiver
credit.
The changes go into effect in 60 days.
http://thehill.com/regulation/237708-new-regs-for-friday-mattress-fires-disability-efficiency
Opinion
Worthey: Company has grip on Mississippi's CO2
Clarion Ledger
It has been argued that Mississippi's CO2 policy is the envy of the
energy nation. In the western United States, there are 12 enhanced
oil recovery operators; in Mississippi, there are two. The only
thing enviable about the situation is the control Denbury has over
the industry.
http://www.clarionledger.com/story/opinion/2015/04/02/worthey-company-grip-mississippis-co/70833934/
The mathematics of life-saving regulation
The Hill
The fate of 11,000 American lives each year may hinge on whether the
Supreme Court Justices understand that fractions can't be calculated
without knowing the denominator.
http://thehill.com/blogs/congress-blog/energy-environment/237771-the-mathematics-of-life-saving-regulation
Press releases
Governor Phil Bryant Comments on 2015 Legislative Session
State Contract Reforms, Help for Special Needs Students and Second
Amendment Protections among Priorities
JACKSON—Lawmakers this session responded to Gov. Phil Bryant's call for
increased government accountability by sending him a measure to tighten
controls on state contracting procedures. The Legislature also heeded the
governor's State of the State Address and voted to send the Equal
Opportunity for Students with Special Needs Act to his desk. The
Mississippi Legislature has adjourned the 2015 regular legislative session.
House Bill 825 increases accountability of state contracting procedures. It
replaces some government employees on the Personal Services Contract Review
Board with objective outside appointees, lowers the threshold for contract
scrutiny from contracts valued at $100,000 or more to those valued at
$75,000 or more and implements tighter rules for the granting of sole
source contracts.
Senate Bill 2400 reigns in emergency contracting procedures for
commodities. State agencies cannot arbitrarily enter into an emergency
contract for commodities and must have prior approval from the Department
of Finance and Administration except in cases where threats to life and
property exist.
"I appreciate the Legislature for passing measures to strengthen
Mississippi's contracting procedures," Gov. Bryant said. "We are entrusted
with the responsibility of being careful stewards of tax dollars, and these
bills are a good start in tightening controls on state contracting
procedures and making government more accountable to taxpayers."
The Equal Opportunity for Students with Special Needs Act (Senate Bill
2695) creates a pilot program to provide special needs students with
scholarships to pay for educational expenses. The measure will provide a
$6,500 scholarship to participating students, and the funds can be used for
expenses like educational therapies, tutoring and tuition at a private
school when the public school in which the student is enrolled is not
meeting his or her needs.
The graduation rate for students with special needs in Mississippi public
schools is 22.5 percent. Mississippi's combined graduation rate is 74.5
percent.
"Special needs students deserve the opportunity to succeed, and this bill
gives parents the power to provide additional resources to help their
children obtain the education and support they need," Gov. Bryant said. "We
have worked for two years to pass this bill, and I am very proud to finally
see it on my desk this year."
Conservative Budget that Prioritizes Education
With the close of the legislative session, Mississippi is set to adopt a
nearly $6.3 billion budget for the upcoming fiscal year, with the majority
of increased revenue collections being directed to K-12 public education.
The budget also includes increases for the state's public community and
junior colleges and for its public universities.
Second Amendment Rights and Public Safety
The 2015 legislative session yielded new protections of Mississippians'
right to keep and bear arms. Senate Bill 2394 clarifies that Mississippians
can carry a non-holstered pistol or revolver in a handbag, briefcase or
other enclosed case. Last year, Gov. Bryant signed a bill clarifying
Mississippian's constitutional right to openly carry a firearm. Senate Bill
2619 counts military training toward requirements for enhanced concealed
carry permits and protects Mississippi gun owners from federal
overregulation of ammunition.
"The right to keep and bear arms is one of the cornerstones of freedom,"
Gov. Bryant said. "As a life member of the NRA and vice-chair of the
Governor's Sportsmen's Caucus, I look forward to signing these important
measures into law."
Senate Bill 2500 authorizes a pay increase for on-the-road troopers in the
Mississippi Highway Patrol and agents at the Mississippi Bureau of
Narcotics.
"These are the front line defenders of public safety in Mississippi—the men
and women who put their lives on the line each day in service of others,"
Gov. Phil Bryant said. "We've worked for several years to clarify the pay
scale for these troopers, and am pleased we are able to take action this
year."
Health Care and Economic Development
Mississippi will invest $20 million to upgrade the Huntington Ingalls
shipyard in Pascagoula and $6 million in the expansion of Batson Children's
Hospital in Jackson. The shipyard, which is a premier manufacturer of the
world's most advanced warships and a major employer in the state, will use
the funds to make improvements aimed at securing more Navy shipbuilding
contracts.
"Mississippi is home to the greatest shipbuilders in the world, and we are
proud to invest in Ingalls and the jobs they support."
Batson Children's Hospital, Mississippi's only children's hospital, is
constructing a major expansion that will include new neonatal intensive
care beds, a dedicated children's heart center and upgraded surgical
suites. The expansion will provide more pediatric subspecialties and will
serve as an enhanced tool for the recruitment of additional physicians.
The hospital has requested a $30 million investment from the state over
three years. Private donors will raise $100 million for the project.
"I am an ardent supporter of Batson Children's Hospital and am very pleased
the state has made an initial investment in its expansion. I hope in the
upcoming years the Legislature will fully support this project. "
Additional measures to improve health care for Mississippians include:
<!--[if !supportLists]-->· <!--[endif]-->A $1 million investment in
the prevention of infant mortality
<!--[if !supportLists]-->· <!--[endif]-->A measure to recognize the
medical licenses of retired military physicians and physicians assistants
so they may practice in Mississippi on a volunteer basis (House Bill 215)
Additional Highlights
<!--[if !supportLists]-->· <!--[endif]-->A $200 million investment in
transportation infrastructure, including bridges
<!--[if !supportLists]-->· <!--[endif]-->A measure to increase
transparency at publicly owned hospitals (Senate Bill 2407)
<!--[if !supportLists]-->· <!--[endif]-->A measure to waive
out-of-state college tuition for eligible military veterans and their
eligible dependents (Senate Bill 2127)
<!--[if !supportLists]-->· <!--[endif]-->A measure that takes a stand
for the United States' ally Israel by restricting Mississippi's financial
involvement with any person or company that conducts significant
energy-related business with Iran (House Bill 1127)
"I was strongly in favor of providing tax relief to Mississippians this
session and supported elimination of the individual income tax and the
business franchise tax. Unfortunately, we were not able to reach a
consensus on these issues," Gov. Bryant said.
"Legislators were also unable to reach an agreement on using excess
unemployment funds for workforce training although this has been the
practice before whenever these resources were available due to reduced need
for unemployment payments. This was the number one priority for our state
chamber of commerce and should have been accomplished.
"All in all, we did accomplish a great deal for Mississippi, and I hope I
can continue working with this Legislature to pass conservative policies
for our state."
###
Friday, April 3, 2015
Thursday, April 2, 2015
News Clippings 4/2/15
State
Patrick Johnson Jr. - ag environmental advocate
Brad Robb
Delta Farm Press
Having the foresight to recognize a need, and then gather the critical mass
support to eventually create something that benefits many, are attributes
of true vision and leadership.
http://deltafarmpress.com/management/patrick-johnson-jr-ag-environmental-advocate?page=1
Costs for Mississippi Power's Kemper power project rise another $9 million
Sun Herald
BY MARY PEREZ
Mississippi Power revised its cost estimate for the Kemper power project up
$9 million in its monthly status report filed Wednesday.
http://www.sunherald.com/2015/04/01/6154660/costs-for-mississippi-powers-kemper.html
Fulton gets a spring cleaning as part of the Great American Cleanup
Itawamba County Times
Like the gaps between the couch cushions and the space below the bedroom
dresser, Fulton needs to undergo a little sprucing up every now and again.
This time of year is the perfect time for that.
http://itawambatimes.com/2015/04/01/fulton-gets-a-spring-cleaning-as-part-of-the-great-american-cleanup/
Emergency Declaration: Necessary or Nah?
Jackson Free Press
Judy Hughes owns less property than when she bought her southwest Jackson
home three decades ago.
http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2015/apr/01/emergency-declaration-necessary-or-nah/
Ridgeland expecting 10,000 people for Kidfest! at Freedom Ridge Park
By TYLER CLEVELAND
Madison County Journal
RIDGELAND - The 13th annual KidFest! Ridgeland kicks off its first weekend
Friday at Freedom Ridge Park, with gates opening at 9 a.m. The festival
runs April 3-4 and April 11-12, and event organizers have been preparing
for a year.
http://onlinemadison.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=30025
Oil Spill
BP says oil spill fine above $2.3 billion would threaten future of U.S.
business
Jennifer Larino
The Times-Picayune
April 01, 2015 at 2:47 PM
BP says an oil spill fine any larger than $2.3 billion would drain its U.S.
unit of cash and threaten its future operations in the Gulf of Mexico. BP
faces up to $13.7 billion in fines for pollution caused by the 2010
disaster.
http://www.nola.com/business/index.ssf/2015/04/bp_oil_spill_fine_broke.html#incart_river
Regional
Real long-term future of red snapper management in Gulf up to U.S. Congress
Press-Register
Jeff Dute
April 02, 2015 at 5:30 AM
Even as members of the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council discuss
the mind-numbing minutiae of red snapper management at a meeting this week
in Biloxi, other talks a thousand miles away may determine its real
long-term future.
http://www.al.com/outdoors/index.ssf/2015/04/real_long-term_future_of_red_s.html#incart_river
4.0 earthquake slightly rattles Mid-South
WMC
The answer is, yes. The ground did shake throughout the Mid-South just
before 11 p.m. Wednesday night.
http://www.wmcactionnews5.com/story/28700657/mid-south-feels-tremors-from-earthquake
National
Senate GOP presses EPA on climate models
The Hill
A group of Senate Republicans is pressing the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) to explain the climate change models it uses for its
regulations.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/237669-senate-gop-presses-epa-on-climate-models
EPA expands areas of approved use for Dow's Enlist Duo herbicide
Reuters
BY CAREY GILLAM
The Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday more than doubled the
number of U.S. states where Dow AgroSciences' controversial new herbicide
can be used.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/04/01/us-agriculture-dow-enlist-idUSKBN0MS5GF20150401
California Orders Unprecedented, Mandatory Water Cuts
Sierra Nevada snowpack levels fall to record low
Wall Street Journal
California's long-running drought has officially reached crisis mode, with
Gov. Jerry Brown ordering statewide water reductions for the first time
ever.
http://www.wsj.com/articles/california-orders-unprecedented-mandatory-water-cuts-1427913893
Patrick Johnson Jr. - ag environmental advocate
Brad Robb
Delta Farm Press
Having the foresight to recognize a need, and then gather the critical mass
support to eventually create something that benefits many, are attributes
of true vision and leadership.
http://deltafarmpress.com/management/patrick-johnson-jr-ag-environmental-advocate?page=1
Costs for Mississippi Power's Kemper power project rise another $9 million
Sun Herald
BY MARY PEREZ
Mississippi Power revised its cost estimate for the Kemper power project up
$9 million in its monthly status report filed Wednesday.
http://www.sunherald.com/2015/04/01/6154660/costs-for-mississippi-powers-kemper.html
Fulton gets a spring cleaning as part of the Great American Cleanup
Itawamba County Times
Like the gaps between the couch cushions and the space below the bedroom
dresser, Fulton needs to undergo a little sprucing up every now and again.
This time of year is the perfect time for that.
http://itawambatimes.com/2015/04/01/fulton-gets-a-spring-cleaning-as-part-of-the-great-american-cleanup/
Emergency Declaration: Necessary or Nah?
Jackson Free Press
Judy Hughes owns less property than when she bought her southwest Jackson
home three decades ago.
http://www.jacksonfreepress.com/news/2015/apr/01/emergency-declaration-necessary-or-nah/
Ridgeland expecting 10,000 people for Kidfest! at Freedom Ridge Park
By TYLER CLEVELAND
Madison County Journal
RIDGELAND - The 13th annual KidFest! Ridgeland kicks off its first weekend
Friday at Freedom Ridge Park, with gates opening at 9 a.m. The festival
runs April 3-4 and April 11-12, and event organizers have been preparing
for a year.
http://onlinemadison.com/main.asp?SectionID=1&SubSectionID=1&ArticleID=30025
Oil Spill
BP says oil spill fine above $2.3 billion would threaten future of U.S.
business
Jennifer Larino
The Times-Picayune
April 01, 2015 at 2:47 PM
BP says an oil spill fine any larger than $2.3 billion would drain its U.S.
unit of cash and threaten its future operations in the Gulf of Mexico. BP
faces up to $13.7 billion in fines for pollution caused by the 2010
disaster.
http://www.nola.com/business/index.ssf/2015/04/bp_oil_spill_fine_broke.html#incart_river
Regional
Real long-term future of red snapper management in Gulf up to U.S. Congress
Press-Register
Jeff Dute
April 02, 2015 at 5:30 AM
Even as members of the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council discuss
the mind-numbing minutiae of red snapper management at a meeting this week
in Biloxi, other talks a thousand miles away may determine its real
long-term future.
http://www.al.com/outdoors/index.ssf/2015/04/real_long-term_future_of_red_s.html#incart_river
4.0 earthquake slightly rattles Mid-South
WMC
The answer is, yes. The ground did shake throughout the Mid-South just
before 11 p.m. Wednesday night.
http://www.wmcactionnews5.com/story/28700657/mid-south-feels-tremors-from-earthquake
National
Senate GOP presses EPA on climate models
The Hill
A group of Senate Republicans is pressing the Environmental Protection
Agency (EPA) to explain the climate change models it uses for its
regulations.
http://thehill.com/policy/energy-environment/237669-senate-gop-presses-epa-on-climate-models
EPA expands areas of approved use for Dow's Enlist Duo herbicide
Reuters
BY CAREY GILLAM
The Environmental Protection Agency on Wednesday more than doubled the
number of U.S. states where Dow AgroSciences' controversial new herbicide
can be used.
http://www.reuters.com/article/2015/04/01/us-agriculture-dow-enlist-idUSKBN0MS5GF20150401
California Orders Unprecedented, Mandatory Water Cuts
Sierra Nevada snowpack levels fall to record low
Wall Street Journal
California's long-running drought has officially reached crisis mode, with
Gov. Jerry Brown ordering statewide water reductions for the first time
ever.
http://www.wsj.com/articles/california-orders-unprecedented-mandatory-water-cuts-1427913893
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
News Clippings 4.1.15
State
Water advisory lifted for Pass Christian beach
Sun Herald
PASS CHRISTIAN -- Authorities with the state Department of Environmental
Quality lifted a water-contact advisory Tuesday for an area of beach from
Fort Henry to Elliott Avenue in Pass Christian.
http://www.sunherald.com/2015/03/31/6153604_around-south-mississippi.html?rh=1
Gulfport plans aquarium on site of Katrina-damaged library
The Associated Press
April 01, 2015 at 6:40 AM
GULFPORT, Miss. -- The historic downtown library in Gulfport is being
incorporated into the city's plans for a major aquarium development that
will cost $90 million to $120 million.
Mayor Billy Hewes said the library would become a welcome center and
transit area for residents and tourists who visit the aquarium and
Gulfport's waterfront.
http://www.gulflive.com/news/index.ssf/2015/04/gulfport_plans_aquarium_on_sit.html#incart_river
Volunteers to pick up trash along North Mississippi highways
Commercial Appeal
Volunteers will be spread out along North Mississippi highways Thursday,
collecting litter as part of the Mississippi Department of Transportation's
annual daylong "Trash Bash" event.
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/local-news/desoto/volunteers-to-pick-up-trash-along-north-mississippi-highways
Two major improvement projects taking place in Laurel
WDAM
Two major road/sewer projects have started in the City of Laurel. One is a
sewer improvement project and the other is a 7th Avenue reconstruction
project.
http://www.wdam.com/story/28675919/two-major-improvement-projects-taking-place-in-laurel
Kemper Coal Plant Opposed by Lauderdale County Group
WTOK
The construction of The Kemper Coal Plant has been in the works for nearly
5 years and has already cost over 6 billion dollars. One local group met
Tuesday night to oppose the plant.
http://www.wtok.com/home/headlines/Kemper-Coal-Plant-Opposed-by-Lauderdale-County-Group-298244141.html
Oil Spill
Judge: Jury Can Decide Alabama's Gulf-Oil-Spill Claims
AP
A judge says Alabama's Gulf oil-spill-damage claims under the federal Oil
Pollution Act can be heard by a jury.
http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/judge-jury-decide-alabamas-gulf-oil-spill-claims-30035820
NEW REPORT SAYS GULF STILL STRUGGLING FIVE YEARS AFTER SPILL
MPB
The National Wildlife Federation says in a new report the Gulf is still
struggling almost five years after the massive BP oil spill. The new study
looks at 20 species in the Gulf, including oysters, sea turtles and blue
crabs.
http://www.mpbonline.org/blogs/news/2015/03/31/new-report-says-gulf-still-struggling-5-years-after-spill/
Cat Island nearly gone; BP oil mat and tar balls still visible on East
Grand Terre Island
Mark Schleifstein
The Times-Picayune
March 31, 2015 at 10:11 PM
Only two tiny strips of sand and shell, dotted with a few skeletal remains
of mangrove trees, are all that was left of Cat Island, a tiny isle in
Barataria Bay that held thriving colonies of brown pelicans, wading birds
and gulls prior to the BP Deepwater Horizion oil spill, on Tuesday (Mar.
31).
http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2015/03/cat_island_nearly_gone_tar_bal.html#incart_most_shared-environment
Environmental groups say ongoing effects of BP oil spill not always visible
to the eye, but damage is continuing
Baton Rouge Advocate
By AMY WOLD
MYRTLE GROVE — On a boat ride Tuesday from Myrtle Grove through Barataria
Bay to see what remains of the Deepwater Horizon oil almost five years
after the April 20, 2010, disaster, it all looks so normal.
http://theadvocate.com/news/11809601-123/environmental-groups-say-ongoing-effects
BP, critics paints sharply different views of life in the Gulf
WVUE
A virtual flotilla headed down the Wilkinson Canal Tuesday morning in
Plaquemines Parish as environmental groups eagerly hauled reporters and
photographers into Barataria Bay.
http://www.fox8live.com/story/28682512/bp-critics-paints-sharply-different-views-of-life-in-the-gulf
National
Obama Administration Submits Plan for Cutting Greenhouse Gases
Part of a major global effort to curb emissions of carbon dioxide; other
economies that formally submitted are EU, Mexico, Norway, Switzerland and
Russia
Wall Street Journal
The Obama administration formally submitted its plan for cutting greenhouse
gases nearly 30% by 2025, part of a global effort this year to curb
emissions of carbon dioxide.
http://www.wsj.com/articles/obama-administration-submits-details-on-cutting-greenhouse-gases-1427813981
Gas Utilities Reduce Leaks of Methane, Study Finds
NY Times
Utilities are making progress in reducing leaks from their
natural gasdistribution networks, a new study has found,
but the industry and regulators can do more.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/01/science/earth/gas-utilities-reduce-leaks-of-methane-study-finds.html?ref=science&_r=0
North Dakota joins Wyoming in fracking suit
AP
Bismarck, N.D. • North Dakota, whose oil riches have been unlocked by the
use of hydraulic fracturing, said Tuesday it will join Wyoming in a lawsuit
challenging a new federal rule requiring more information about the process
when it's used on U.S. government lands.
http://www.sltrib.com/home/2352750-155/north-dakota-joins-wyoming-in-fracking
Press Releases
The Mississippi State Department of Health Wants to Hear from You
JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) needs
your feedback on its first Mississippi State Health Assessment, a tool that
will help shape public health efforts and policy in the coming years.
"This assessment is an opportunity for us to improve the state public
health system. While we always work with partners and advocates, it's also
critically important to hear from the people we serve – all
Mississippians," said State Health Officer Dr. Mary Currier. "It is crucial
to get feedback from as many Mississippians as possible to help us create a
thriving public health effort that is supported by active and committed
citizens and organizations."
Nine areas of improvement have been identified to help MSDH make strides in
improving the lives of Mississippians. They are: improving access to care,
building healthy communities, improving infant health, reducing risky
sexual behavior, reducing the rates of chronic disease, improving mental
health, increasing educational levels, reducing poverty, and sharing public
health goals.
Learn more about these nine important areas and give us your feedback by
visiting our website
at HealthyMS.com/future.
For an in-depth look at the key findings of the State Health Assessment,
the public is also invited to attend one of three upcoming presentations
online. These live, over-the-Web presentations are an opportunity to ask
questions and learn more from some of the public health professionals
involved in the Assessment.
The webinars are schedules for:
· 2-4 p.m., Wednesday, April 1
· 10 a.m. to noon, Thursday April 2
· Space is limited to 200 participants per session and registration is
required.
· Visit http://HealthyMS.com/future to register for a webinar.
Follow MSDH by e-mail and social media at HealthyMS.com/connect.
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| USDA to Provide $332 Million to Protect and Restore Agricultural Working Lands, |
| Grasslands and Wetlands |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Private landowners, tribes, and eligible entities encouraged to apply by May 15 |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
|WASHINGTON, March 31, 2015 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that |
|U.S. Department of Agriculture is making available $332 million in financial and |
|technical assistance through the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP). |
|USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will accept ACEP applications to |
|help productive farm and ranch lands remain in agriculture and to protect the nation's |
|critical wetlands and grasslands, home to diverse wildlife and plant species. |
| |
| |
|"USDA helps farmers, ranchers, private forest landowners and partners to achieve their |
|conservation goals using our technical expertise, Farm Bill funding and sound |
|conservation planning," Vilsack said. "Conservation easements are an important tool to |
|help these landowners and partners voluntarily provide long-term protection of our |
|nation's farmland, ranchland, wetlands and grasslands for future generations." |
| |
| |
|The 2014 Farm Bill consolidated three previous conservation easement programs into ACEP|
|to make it easier for diverse agricultural landowners to fully benefit from |
|conservation initiatives. NRCS easement programs have been a critical tool in recent |
|years for advancing landscape-scale private lands conservation. In FY 2014, NRCS used |
|$328 million in ACEP funding to enroll an estimated 145,000 acres of farmland, |
|grassland, and wetlands through 485 new easements. |
| |
| |
|In Florida, NRCS used ACEP funds to enroll an additional 6,700 acres in the Northern |
|Everglades Watershed, supporting the restoration and protection of habitat for a |
|variety of listed species, including the Wood Stork, Crested caracara, and Eastern |
|Indigo Snake. The Nebraska Land Trust plans to use ACEP to enroll more than 1,400 acres|
|of native grazing lands that also include grasslands and woodlands that provide |
|critical habitat for Nebraska's bighorn sheep and elk. |
| |
| |
|ACEP's agricultural land easements not only protect the long-term viability of the |
|nation's food supply by preventing conversion of productive working lands to |
|non-agricultural uses, but they also support environmental quality, historic |
|preservation, wildlife habitat and protection of open space. American Indian tribes, |
|state and local governments and non-governmental organizations that have farmland or |
|grassland protection programs are eligible to partner with NRCS to purchase |
|conservation easements. A key change under the new agricultural land easement component|
|is the new "grasslands of special environmental significance" that will protect |
|high-quality grasslands that are under threat of conversion to cropping, urban |
|development and other non-grazing uses. |
| |
| |
|Wetland reserve easements allow landowners to successfully enhance and protect habitat |
|for wildlife on their lands, reduce impacts from flooding, recharge groundwater and |
|provide outdoor recreational and educational opportunities. NRCS provides technical and|
|financial assistance directly to private and tribal landowners to restore, protect and |
|enhance wetlands through the purchase of these easements, and Eligible landowners can |
|choose to enroll in a permanent or 30-year easement; tribal landowners also have the |
|option of enrolling in 30-year contracts. |
| |
| |
|ACEP applications may be submitted at any time to NRCS; however, applications for the |
|current funding round must be submitted on or before May 15, 2015. |
| |
| |
|To learn about ACEP and other technical and financial assistance available through NRCS|
|conservation programs, visit www.nrcs.usda.gov/GetStarted or your local USDA Service |
|Center. |
| |
| |
|Today's announcement was made possible by the 2014 Farm Bill. The 2014 Farm Bill builds|
|on historic economic gains in rural America over the past five years, while achieving |
|meaningful reform and billions of dollars in savings for taxpayers. Since enactment, |
|USDA has made significant progress to implement each provision of this critical |
|legislation, including establishing innovative public-private conservation |
|partnerships. |
| |
| |
|# |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
EPA Awards Student Fellowships in 25 States and Puerto Rico to Support the
Next Generation of Environmental Scientists
Washington, DC –Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
announced 34 fellowships for undergraduate students in 25 states and Puerto
Rico to pursue environmental science and related fields of study at
universities and colleges across the nation, helping to inspire the next
generation of environmental scientists and engineers. The awards, part of
EPA's Greater Research Opportunities (GRO) fellowship program, provide
students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with agency
scientists.
"These students' ambitious and innovative ideas will help create a more
sustainable future," said Lek Kadeli, Acting Assistant Administrator for
EPA's Office of Research and Development. "EPA is investing in the next
generation of environmental scientists and engineers whose research will
help achieve our mission of protecting human health and the environment."
Previous fellows have been recognized as leaders and educators in
environmental health and science. More than 362 fellows have completed
EPA's program and have employed their knowledge and expertise in the
workplace. Examples include:
• Evan Bredeweg, a 2006 GRO Fellow, elaborated on his time in the
program saying, "The GRO fellowship has definitely helped me pursue my
goals. It provided a starting block for me to begin my academic career and
helped open doors to further opportunities."
• Sacoby Wilson, a 1996 GRO fellow, is now an assistant professor with
the Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health (MIAEH) and
Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health,
University of Maryland-College Park;
• Cynthia Williams, a 2000 GRO fellow, is a systems engineer at the
Missile Defense Agency.
The students selected for fellowships are undergraduates entering their
junior year. The fellowship provides up to $20,700 a year of academic
support that includes both stipend and tuition support as well as $8,600
for an internship during the summer for a combined total of up to $50,000
over the life of the fellowship.
For more than 30 years, EPA's GRO Fellowship has been providing students in
environmental science related fields the tools to succeed not only in their
undergraduate studies and internship, but also in their future careers. The
GRO program gives institutions the opportunity to grow and create a culture
of excellence through their students.
The 2014 fellowships have been awarded to students at the following
universities:
• University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, Ala.
• Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Ariz.
• University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Ark.
• Claremont Mckenna College, Claremont, Calif.
• University of San Francisco, San Francisco, Calif.
• University of Denver, Denver, Colo.
• University of New Haven, West Haven, Conn.
• Delaware State University, Dover, Del.
• Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Ga.
• University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hilo, Hawaii
• Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Ill.
• Buena Vista University, Storm Lake, Iowa
• Louisiana Tech University, Ruston, La.
• Smith College, Northampton, Mass.
• Stonehill College, North Easton, Mass.
• Wellesley College, Wellesley, Mass.
• Salisbury University, Salisbury, Md.
• Lake Superior State University, Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.
• Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Mich.
• Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, N.C.
• University of New Hampshire, Durham, N.H.
• City College of New York, New York, N.Y.
• Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio
• Portland State University, Portland, Ore.
• Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pa.
• Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pa.
• University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
• Dakota State University, Madison, S.D.
• Baylor University, Waco, Texas
• University of North Texas, Denton, Texas
• Norfolk State University, Norfolk, Va.
• University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, Eau Claire, Wis.
• University of Wisconsin - Green Bay, Green Bay, Wis.
The solicitation for the next round of GRO fellowships is now open for
applications.
For more information on the awarded GRO Fellows:
http://epa.gov/ncer/14GROfellows ;
For more information about applying for the next round of GRO fellowships:
http://epa.gov/ncer/rfa/2015/2015_gro_undergrad.html
For information about the GRO Fellowship Program:
http://epa.gov/ncer/fellow/
For more information on fellowships at EPA:
http://epa.gov/ncer/fellow/gro-faq.pdf
Water advisory lifted for Pass Christian beach
Sun Herald
PASS CHRISTIAN -- Authorities with the state Department of Environmental
Quality lifted a water-contact advisory Tuesday for an area of beach from
Fort Henry to Elliott Avenue in Pass Christian.
http://www.sunherald.com/2015/03/31/6153604_around-south-mississippi.html?rh=1
Gulfport plans aquarium on site of Katrina-damaged library
The Associated Press
April 01, 2015 at 6:40 AM
GULFPORT, Miss. -- The historic downtown library in Gulfport is being
incorporated into the city's plans for a major aquarium development that
will cost $90 million to $120 million.
Mayor Billy Hewes said the library would become a welcome center and
transit area for residents and tourists who visit the aquarium and
Gulfport's waterfront.
http://www.gulflive.com/news/index.ssf/2015/04/gulfport_plans_aquarium_on_sit.html#incart_river
Volunteers to pick up trash along North Mississippi highways
Commercial Appeal
Volunteers will be spread out along North Mississippi highways Thursday,
collecting litter as part of the Mississippi Department of Transportation's
annual daylong "Trash Bash" event.
http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/local-news/desoto/volunteers-to-pick-up-trash-along-north-mississippi-highways
Two major improvement projects taking place in Laurel
WDAM
Two major road/sewer projects have started in the City of Laurel. One is a
sewer improvement project and the other is a 7th Avenue reconstruction
project.
http://www.wdam.com/story/28675919/two-major-improvement-projects-taking-place-in-laurel
Kemper Coal Plant Opposed by Lauderdale County Group
WTOK
The construction of The Kemper Coal Plant has been in the works for nearly
5 years and has already cost over 6 billion dollars. One local group met
Tuesday night to oppose the plant.
http://www.wtok.com/home/headlines/Kemper-Coal-Plant-Opposed-by-Lauderdale-County-Group-298244141.html
Oil Spill
Judge: Jury Can Decide Alabama's Gulf-Oil-Spill Claims
AP
A judge says Alabama's Gulf oil-spill-damage claims under the federal Oil
Pollution Act can be heard by a jury.
http://abcnews.go.com/US/wireStory/judge-jury-decide-alabamas-gulf-oil-spill-claims-30035820
NEW REPORT SAYS GULF STILL STRUGGLING FIVE YEARS AFTER SPILL
MPB
The National Wildlife Federation says in a new report the Gulf is still
struggling almost five years after the massive BP oil spill. The new study
looks at 20 species in the Gulf, including oysters, sea turtles and blue
crabs.
http://www.mpbonline.org/blogs/news/2015/03/31/new-report-says-gulf-still-struggling-5-years-after-spill/
Cat Island nearly gone; BP oil mat and tar balls still visible on East
Grand Terre Island
Mark Schleifstein
The Times-Picayune
March 31, 2015 at 10:11 PM
Only two tiny strips of sand and shell, dotted with a few skeletal remains
of mangrove trees, are all that was left of Cat Island, a tiny isle in
Barataria Bay that held thriving colonies of brown pelicans, wading birds
and gulls prior to the BP Deepwater Horizion oil spill, on Tuesday (Mar.
31).
http://www.nola.com/environment/index.ssf/2015/03/cat_island_nearly_gone_tar_bal.html#incart_most_shared-environment
Environmental groups say ongoing effects of BP oil spill not always visible
to the eye, but damage is continuing
Baton Rouge Advocate
By AMY WOLD
MYRTLE GROVE — On a boat ride Tuesday from Myrtle Grove through Barataria
Bay to see what remains of the Deepwater Horizon oil almost five years
after the April 20, 2010, disaster, it all looks so normal.
http://theadvocate.com/news/11809601-123/environmental-groups-say-ongoing-effects
BP, critics paints sharply different views of life in the Gulf
WVUE
A virtual flotilla headed down the Wilkinson Canal Tuesday morning in
Plaquemines Parish as environmental groups eagerly hauled reporters and
photographers into Barataria Bay.
http://www.fox8live.com/story/28682512/bp-critics-paints-sharply-different-views-of-life-in-the-gulf
National
Obama Administration Submits Plan for Cutting Greenhouse Gases
Part of a major global effort to curb emissions of carbon dioxide; other
economies that formally submitted are EU, Mexico, Norway, Switzerland and
Russia
Wall Street Journal
The Obama administration formally submitted its plan for cutting greenhouse
gases nearly 30% by 2025, part of a global effort this year to curb
emissions of carbon dioxide.
http://www.wsj.com/articles/obama-administration-submits-details-on-cutting-greenhouse-gases-1427813981
Gas Utilities Reduce Leaks of Methane, Study Finds
NY Times
Utilities are making progress in reducing leaks from their
natural gasdistribution networks, a new study has found,
but the industry and regulators can do more.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/04/01/science/earth/gas-utilities-reduce-leaks-of-methane-study-finds.html?ref=science&_r=0
North Dakota joins Wyoming in fracking suit
AP
Bismarck, N.D. • North Dakota, whose oil riches have been unlocked by the
use of hydraulic fracturing, said Tuesday it will join Wyoming in a lawsuit
challenging a new federal rule requiring more information about the process
when it's used on U.S. government lands.
http://www.sltrib.com/home/2352750-155/north-dakota-joins-wyoming-in-fracking
Press Releases
The Mississippi State Department of Health Wants to Hear from You
JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) needs
your feedback on its first Mississippi State Health Assessment, a tool that
will help shape public health efforts and policy in the coming years.
"This assessment is an opportunity for us to improve the state public
health system. While we always work with partners and advocates, it's also
critically important to hear from the people we serve – all
Mississippians," said State Health Officer Dr. Mary Currier. "It is crucial
to get feedback from as many Mississippians as possible to help us create a
thriving public health effort that is supported by active and committed
citizens and organizations."
Nine areas of improvement have been identified to help MSDH make strides in
improving the lives of Mississippians. They are: improving access to care,
building healthy communities, improving infant health, reducing risky
sexual behavior, reducing the rates of chronic disease, improving mental
health, increasing educational levels, reducing poverty, and sharing public
health goals.
Learn more about these nine important areas and give us your feedback by
visiting our website
at HealthyMS.com/future.
For an in-depth look at the key findings of the State Health Assessment,
the public is also invited to attend one of three upcoming presentations
online. These live, over-the-Web presentations are an opportunity to ask
questions and learn more from some of the public health professionals
involved in the Assessment.
The webinars are schedules for:
· 2-4 p.m., Wednesday, April 1
· 10 a.m. to noon, Thursday April 2
· Space is limited to 200 participants per session and registration is
required.
· Visit http://HealthyMS.com/future to register for a webinar.
Follow MSDH by e-mail and social media at HealthyMS.com/connect.
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| USDA to Provide $332 Million to Protect and Restore Agricultural Working Lands, |
| Grasslands and Wetlands |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| Private landowners, tribes, and eligible entities encouraged to apply by May 15 |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
| |
|WASHINGTON, March 31, 2015 – Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced that |
|U.S. Department of Agriculture is making available $332 million in financial and |
|technical assistance through the Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP). |
|USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) will accept ACEP applications to |
|help productive farm and ranch lands remain in agriculture and to protect the nation's |
|critical wetlands and grasslands, home to diverse wildlife and plant species. |
| |
| |
|"USDA helps farmers, ranchers, private forest landowners and partners to achieve their |
|conservation goals using our technical expertise, Farm Bill funding and sound |
|conservation planning," Vilsack said. "Conservation easements are an important tool to |
|help these landowners and partners voluntarily provide long-term protection of our |
|nation's farmland, ranchland, wetlands and grasslands for future generations." |
| |
| |
|The 2014 Farm Bill consolidated three previous conservation easement programs into ACEP|
|to make it easier for diverse agricultural landowners to fully benefit from |
|conservation initiatives. NRCS easement programs have been a critical tool in recent |
|years for advancing landscape-scale private lands conservation. In FY 2014, NRCS used |
|$328 million in ACEP funding to enroll an estimated 145,000 acres of farmland, |
|grassland, and wetlands through 485 new easements. |
| |
| |
|In Florida, NRCS used ACEP funds to enroll an additional 6,700 acres in the Northern |
|Everglades Watershed, supporting the restoration and protection of habitat for a |
|variety of listed species, including the Wood Stork, Crested caracara, and Eastern |
|Indigo Snake. The Nebraska Land Trust plans to use ACEP to enroll more than 1,400 acres|
|of native grazing lands that also include grasslands and woodlands that provide |
|critical habitat for Nebraska's bighorn sheep and elk. |
| |
| |
|ACEP's agricultural land easements not only protect the long-term viability of the |
|nation's food supply by preventing conversion of productive working lands to |
|non-agricultural uses, but they also support environmental quality, historic |
|preservation, wildlife habitat and protection of open space. American Indian tribes, |
|state and local governments and non-governmental organizations that have farmland or |
|grassland protection programs are eligible to partner with NRCS to purchase |
|conservation easements. A key change under the new agricultural land easement component|
|is the new "grasslands of special environmental significance" that will protect |
|high-quality grasslands that are under threat of conversion to cropping, urban |
|development and other non-grazing uses. |
| |
| |
|Wetland reserve easements allow landowners to successfully enhance and protect habitat |
|for wildlife on their lands, reduce impacts from flooding, recharge groundwater and |
|provide outdoor recreational and educational opportunities. NRCS provides technical and|
|financial assistance directly to private and tribal landowners to restore, protect and |
|enhance wetlands through the purchase of these easements, and Eligible landowners can |
|choose to enroll in a permanent or 30-year easement; tribal landowners also have the |
|option of enrolling in 30-year contracts. |
| |
| |
|ACEP applications may be submitted at any time to NRCS; however, applications for the |
|current funding round must be submitted on or before May 15, 2015. |
| |
| |
|To learn about ACEP and other technical and financial assistance available through NRCS|
|conservation programs, visit www.nrcs.usda.gov/GetStarted or your local USDA Service |
|Center. |
| |
| |
|Today's announcement was made possible by the 2014 Farm Bill. The 2014 Farm Bill builds|
|on historic economic gains in rural America over the past five years, while achieving |
|meaningful reform and billions of dollars in savings for taxpayers. Since enactment, |
|USDA has made significant progress to implement each provision of this critical |
|legislation, including establishing innovative public-private conservation |
|partnerships. |
| |
| |
|# |
|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------|
EPA Awards Student Fellowships in 25 States and Puerto Rico to Support the
Next Generation of Environmental Scientists
Washington, DC –Today the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
announced 34 fellowships for undergraduate students in 25 states and Puerto
Rico to pursue environmental science and related fields of study at
universities and colleges across the nation, helping to inspire the next
generation of environmental scientists and engineers. The awards, part of
EPA's Greater Research Opportunities (GRO) fellowship program, provide
students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with agency
scientists.
"These students' ambitious and innovative ideas will help create a more
sustainable future," said Lek Kadeli, Acting Assistant Administrator for
EPA's Office of Research and Development. "EPA is investing in the next
generation of environmental scientists and engineers whose research will
help achieve our mission of protecting human health and the environment."
Previous fellows have been recognized as leaders and educators in
environmental health and science. More than 362 fellows have completed
EPA's program and have employed their knowledge and expertise in the
workplace. Examples include:
• Evan Bredeweg, a 2006 GRO Fellow, elaborated on his time in the
program saying, "The GRO fellowship has definitely helped me pursue my
goals. It provided a starting block for me to begin my academic career and
helped open doors to further opportunities."
• Sacoby Wilson, a 1996 GRO fellow, is now an assistant professor with
the Maryland Institute for Applied Environmental Health (MIAEH) and
Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, School of Public Health,
University of Maryland-College Park;
• Cynthia Williams, a 2000 GRO fellow, is a systems engineer at the
Missile Defense Agency.
The students selected for fellowships are undergraduates entering their
junior year. The fellowship provides up to $20,700 a year of academic
support that includes both stipend and tuition support as well as $8,600
for an internship during the summer for a combined total of up to $50,000
over the life of the fellowship.
For more than 30 years, EPA's GRO Fellowship has been providing students in
environmental science related fields the tools to succeed not only in their
undergraduate studies and internship, but also in their future careers. The
GRO program gives institutions the opportunity to grow and create a culture
of excellence through their students.
The 2014 fellowships have been awarded to students at the following
universities:
• University of Alabama in Huntsville, Huntsville, Ala.
• Northern Arizona University, Flagstaff, Ariz.
• University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, Ark.
• Claremont Mckenna College, Claremont, Calif.
• University of San Francisco, San Francisco, Calif.
• University of Denver, Denver, Colo.
• University of New Haven, West Haven, Conn.
• Delaware State University, Dover, Del.
• Clark Atlanta University, Atlanta, Ga.
• University of Hawaii at Hilo, Hilo, Hawaii
• Loyola University Chicago, Chicago, Ill.
• Buena Vista University, Storm Lake, Iowa
• Louisiana Tech University, Ruston, La.
• Smith College, Northampton, Mass.
• Stonehill College, North Easton, Mass.
• Wellesley College, Wellesley, Mass.
• Salisbury University, Salisbury, Md.
• Lake Superior State University, Sault Ste. Marie, Mich.
• Michigan Technological University, Houghton, Mich.
• Western Carolina University, Cullowhee, N.C.
• University of New Hampshire, Durham, N.H.
• City College of New York, New York, N.Y.
• Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio
• Portland State University, Portland, Ore.
• Dickinson College, Carlisle, Pa.
• Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, Pa.
• University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez, Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
• Dakota State University, Madison, S.D.
• Baylor University, Waco, Texas
• University of North Texas, Denton, Texas
• Norfolk State University, Norfolk, Va.
• University of Wisconsin – Eau Claire, Eau Claire, Wis.
• University of Wisconsin - Green Bay, Green Bay, Wis.
The solicitation for the next round of GRO fellowships is now open for
applications.
For more information on the awarded GRO Fellows:
http://epa.gov/ncer/14GROfellows ;
For more information about applying for the next round of GRO fellowships:
http://epa.gov/ncer/rfa/2015/2015_gro_undergrad.html
For information about the GRO Fellowship Program:
http://epa.gov/ncer/fellow/
For more information on fellowships at EPA:
http://epa.gov/ncer/fellow/gro-faq.pdf
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