BEN Thanksgiving Special

1) BEN's List of Chosen Charities for Thanksgiving
2) BEN's List of Alabama Gift Ideas
3) Special Quotes and Passages About Alabama and the Environment

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1. BEN's List of Chosen Charities for Thanksgiving - In lieu of BEN subscription fees, please consider making a contribution to one of the Bama Environmental News chosen charities this Thanksgiving Season. The charities include:

The Wilderness Society - c/o Frank Peterman, 112 Krog Street, Atlanta, Georgia 30307 - Make checks payable to The Wilderness Society

University of Washington Foundation/Rose Endowed Scholarship - UW Medicine Development - Attn. Donna Caliri, Campus Box 358220, Seattle, Washington 98195 (Checks Payable to UW Foundation - reference Rose Endowed Scholarship on check) or call Donna with credit card payment at 206-543-6347.

Southern Environmental Center at Birmingham Southern College - 900 Arkadelphia Road, Birmingham, Alabama 35254 - Make checks payable to Southern Environmental Center

Camp McDowell Episcopal Church Camp - 105 DeLong Road, Nauvoo, Alabama 35578 (Checks payable to Camp McDowell - reference Pat Byington Scholarship Fund on check)

Sheffield High School "Environmental Public Service Scholarship" - Sheffield Education Foundation, c/o Dr. Richard Gardner, Ed. D., 300 West Sixth Street, Sheffield, Alabama 35660 - (Checks payable to the Sheffield Education Foundation - reference Byington scholarship on the check)

Short descriptions of each Charity can be found at : http://www.BamaNews.com/donation.html

2. BEN's List of Alabama Gift Ideas - This holiday season, please consider these local Alabama eco-friendly companies and non-profits for this year's gift giving.

Sweetwater Pecan Company - A Southeast Alabama Company that provides locally grown pecans and various other gifts. The company is owned by local environmentalists and friends of BEN, Terry and Susan Bishop. Check them out at http://www.sweetwaterpc.com/

Kingfisher Editions - Check out Beth Mayor Young's (Alabama's Ansel Adams) photography at http://www.kingfishereditions.com

Higher Ground Roasters - A local Alabama coffee company that sells special "brands" on behalf of several nonprofit environmental groups including: Alabama Environmental Council, Alabama Rivers Alliance, Freshwater Land trust, Jones Valley Urban Farm and the SE. Foot Trails Coalition. Visit http://www.highergroundroasters.com

Red Rain Store - A local Alabama store in Homewood, Alabama, Red Rain is sells a wide variety of eco-friendly items at the store and online! Visit - http://www.redrainstore.com

Discovering Alabama - Want to purchase one of the 63 episodes of Doug Phillip's Discovering Alabama? Visit http://www.discoveringalabama.com/schedule.html

Wild Paths - Check out this wonderful wildlife enhancement project sponsored by the Alabama Wildlife Federation in conjunction with the Alabama Institute of the Deaf and Blind in Talladega. Go to http://www.wildpaths.org

Weeks Bay Reserve Foundation - Order the 2007 Weeks Bay Holiday ornament for $10. This year's edition features a Spotted Sea Trout with an estuary scene backdrop. Call 251-990-5504 to order.

Hummer Study Group - Check out Bob and Martha Sargent's catalog of books and hummingbird "starter kits" at the Hummer Study group site.

Alabama Environmental Organizations - Gift Items

Several Alabama environmental groups provide "online stores" to members and the general public. Here is a listing of "online stores."

Nature Conservancy Gift Store 

Alabama Wildlife Federation - http://www.alabamawildlife.org/shop_online/
Southeastern Cave Conservancy - http://www.scci.org/merchandise.html
Alabama Wildbird Conservation Association - http://www.alaweb.com/~Kenwood/saba/index.html
Wild South - http://www.wildsouth.org
Black Warrior Riverkeeper - http://www.blackwarriorriverkeeper.org
Alabama Coastal Foundation - http://www.joinacf.org/toppage2.htm

3. Special Quotes and Passages About Alabama and the Environment

Below: A passage given to me from Stuart McGregor, a biologist at the Geological Survey of Alabama. This particular passage honors my hometown region Muscle Shoals.

".....The expansion of the Tennessee River, known by the name of Muscle Shoals, is of the character I have described; it is shallow, ornamented with a number of small islands, and its bed is full of the long grass which abounds in various species of Naiades. The lover of the grand and the beautiful in natural scenery, as well as the student in science, will here find abundant sources of interest. He will be delighted with a noble river, whose beautiful and numerous islands are clothed with gigantic trees; whose high and undulating shore on the one hand is ornamented with thriving villages, and on the other spreads out an extensive alluvial, rich in all the gifts of Ceres, or rises abruptly from the river a mural escarpment of carboniferous limestone, which reflectes its blue and sombre aspect in the crystal waters at it base...." ~ Timothy Abbot Conrad, "New Freshwater Shells of the United States", Philadelphia, 1834

From David Brower, the "Archdruid"

"Allow me to offer you a short course in ecology, beginning with rot. Rot is an extraordinary important process. Rot is highly exciting. But we give it a three letter word. We say, "This tree is sick," and "This is rotten, anyway. We should get rid of it."

By removing the rotten tree from the forest, we knock out of existence all the species that were going to use that tree for a home, for their dinner, until it rotted away completely, and helped nourish the next tree, maybe 200 or more years down the line. This a very good system. Unfortunately, we've learned to interrupt it rather than to live with it. We have learned how to break the circle of life instead of respecting it.

Nature recycles everything. There isn't anything that isn't recycled. Go outside. Look at the natural systems. Study them and learn to read the Earth. You will see what it has had time to learn. You will begin to understand the life force." ~ David Brower from Let the Mountains Talk Let the Rivers Run


"Wild nature, then, has been a way to recognize God and to talk about who he is - even, as in Job, a way for God to talk about who he is. How could it be otherwise? What else is, or was, beyond human reach. In what other sphere could a deity operate freely? It is not a chance that every second hymn in the hymn book rings with the imagery of the untouched outdoors. "All thy works with joy surround thee, Earth and Heaven reflect thy rays," we sing Beethoven's "Ode to Joy." Sheep and harvests and the other common motifs of the Bible are not just metaphors; they are also the old reality of the earth, a place where people depended for both life and meaning on the nature they found around them. "We plow the fields and scatter the good seed on the land. But it is fed and watered by God's almighty hand. He sends the snow in winter, The warmth to swell the grain, The breezes and the sunshine, And soft refreshing rain. All good gifts around us Are sent from heaven above." ~ Bill McKibben from The End of Nature

Mobile Register Invasive Species Op-ed Written by Pat Byington in January 2006

"It's a bomb about to go off."

It's one of life's little ironies that hurricanes should figure so
prominently in the career of Rick Guffey, a soft-spoken man from the landlocked hills of North Alabama. He is the Director of Conservation Programs for the Nature Conservancy, Mississippi Chapter. He spoke in a serious, urgent tone.

"I don't mean to be alarmist, but we need to do something now or we will see the ecological makeup of our forests and landscapes totally changed."

The combined impact of hurricanes Ivan in 2004 and Katrina and Rita this year has created an unprecedented opportunity for invasive species to virtually wipe out acre after acre of coastal habitats and begin to encroach upon commercial forestry and agricultural resources. Two plants in particular, the Chinese tallowtree (Triadica sebifera) and Japanese cogongrass (Imperata cylindrica), are poised to create an ecological -- and economic -- tragedy.

These plants spread quickly, are resistant to drought and disease, aggressively crowding out native species. The main thing they require is an abundance of sunlight. The hurricanes of the past two years tore through great swathes of forests in southern Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana, clearing a path for a second natural disaster with even longer-lasting implications.

"Many of my constituents had all their assets literally blown away by Hurricane Ivan," said Congressman Jo Bonner in a meeting last month. "We have got to find a way to help these forestowners." That hurricane alone created more than $1 billion in lost timber values.

One of Alabama's most important industries is forestry, so addressing these losses is a priority. At the same time, scientists, landowners, environmentalists, the timber industry and the public must address the rising threat of invasive species, or these timber producing regions will cease to be a valuable natural resource for our state.

"Over the last decade it has been a slow-moving but pervasive problem," Guffey says. "But the combination of these major natural disturbances with the disruptions caused by upcoming recovery efforts takes the problem to a much higher level." The Chinese tallowtree has the potential to become the dominant species in several different habitats, and once established, is very difficult to control. It has even been shown to alter soil and water chemistry.

Alabama is blessed with a remarkable biological diversity. Within a few hundred miles, the geography produces a wealth of habitats, which in their turn support the wildlife that make hunting and fishing such popular sports. Bottomland hardwood, maritime forest, pine flatwood, pine savanna, tidal marsh, beach/dune, and island habitats are now all threatened by this acceleration of invasive species. When plant life diversity is reduced, native wildlife diversity takes a corresponding blow, so the impact is spread even further. The loss of this biological diversity would have a ripple effect far beyond the forest and agricultural industries.

The Chinese tallowtree, also called a "popcorn tree," has no marketable uses. Its primary characteristic is its ability to choke out trees which do have value on the marketplace. Japanese cogongrass grows so densely that it, too, chokes out any competing native species. The grass spreads remarkably quickly, by natural means and also by getting caught up in the tires of trucks and equipment in one area, and taking a free ride to a new spot. The downed trees of the hurricanes offer both species an opportunity to spread like wildfire.

Easing the human misery of hurricanes Katrina and Rita is of primary importance. But overlooking the long-term menace of invasive species is a mistake we cannot afford to make. Bringing together all the stakeholders this winter would be a first step in finding a solution. We need to offer relief to those landowners who have suffered from the devastation. At the same time, we must discuss all the possible ways to preserve the value of our forest and landscapes; that value may be found in its biological diversity and ability to shelter wildlife, or in its use as agricultural or forestry resources.

Alabama has over 220,000 non-industrial forest landowners, most owning timberland with less than 100 acres. These people have invested in Alabama's natural resources and are counting on their ability to leave a legacy to their children and grandchildren. We need to find ways to help our fellow Alabamians succeed.

Let's get together with our neighboring states now and find out what the solution may be. There is little time to defuse that bomb. Our decisions today are shaping the world our children and grandchildren will inhabit. We can choose to leave as our legacy endless acres of monotonous alien species, the product of our apathy. Or we can choose to pass on the landscape we ourselves inherited, a landscape of beauty and biological diversity.

Written by Pat Byington, ecologist who works for the Auburn University Center for Forest Sustainability and Karyn Zweifel, author and freelance writer from Birmingham

Bham News Recycling Commentary - By Pat Byington

The question came from out of the blue: "Do people recycle in Alabama?" asked the young bakery shop clerk in Cannon Beach, Ore., where I was vacationing with my family this past summer. I've worn my University of Alabama T-shirt many a time, but it has never elicited that question before.

Curious, and caught just a bit off guard, I answered with my own question: "Why do you ask?"

"Oh, well, I visited Alabama for a few weeks earlier in the year," she began, haltingly, "and there were no recycling centers. There was nothing. Just a lot of trashy roadsides. It was kinda ugly."

"Yeah, I know," I replied through a grimace. I also knew why it was that way.

If you ever wanted to identify the longest list of abandoned policy recommendations in the history of state government, you would have to look no further than Alabama's 1991 Solid Waste Management plan concerning recycling and waste reduction.

Following a legislative mandate, the 1991 plan recommended various initiatives designed to fulfill a 25 percent recycling/waste reduction goal in our state's solid waste stream by 1997. Nearly a generation later, Alabama is nowhere close to achieving that goal.

So why can't we recycle and reduce our garbage in Alabama like so many other communities around the country? We can, except for the lack of political will.

A case in point: I have relatives in Shelby County's Brook Highland neighborhood who recently told me about an exciting new recycling program in their community initiated by a high school senior as a class project. The ambitious student is picking up people's recyclables, door to door, and charging residents a monthly fee. After living in Alabama for more than 15 years, my relatives are thrilled to finally have a curbside-recycling program. All this from a high school class project that will most likely end when the student graduates in May.

Now, I don't have a problem with the student's ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirit, but shouldn't my relatives be able to expect the same service from Waste Management, the neighborhood's waste collector and one of the largest companies of its kind in North America?

Well, they should expect that service, and they would get it if they lived somewhere else. If they happened to live in a suburban Seattle neighborhood, where my wife's parents live, Waste Management would go to great lengths to help them recycle.

As my father-in-law boasts, his local government is so serious about recycling and waste reduction, it demands compliance from its waste collectors.

It requires companies such as Waste Management to provide two large recycling containers to each household -- one for recyclables and the other for yard waste -- and a small garbage bin. The tiny bin is an inducement to recycle, plain and simple.

Depending on where you live in Alabama, it costs $20 to $30 to landfill a ton of garbage. If we did achieve the 25 percent goal, Alabama would save $20 million to $30 million in landfill costs, lengthen landfill life, save energy, bolster the recycled-materials industry, develop new markets and create far more jobs than by simply burying all of our recyclables.

But it has to start with political will -- and leadership -- from the local government. Without policies that require waste collectors to create recycling incentives, none of this would happen.

Recent statistics on solid waste from the Alabama Department of Environmental Management give a compelling reason why we should recycle more in this state. Alabamians throw away approximately seven pounds of garbage per person per day, or more than a ton and a half a year. With about 4.6 million state residents, that means we toss out more than 11.5 billion pounds of garbage every year!

In contrast, Alabama's recycling rate is a meager 8.3 percent, which is far below the 25 percent goal set nearly two decades ago, according to ADEM. For comparison, the national recycling rate, according to the Environmental Protection Agency, is 32 percent, four times the current rate in Alabama. We are getting trounced by the rest of the nation when it comes to recycling.

Genuine efforts to recycle and reduce our wastes statewide will also create a new culture of environmental stewardship in Alabama, one that will find "unacceptable" the littered roadsides and streambanks, and the illegal dumps in our forests we currently tolerate.

All it takes to spark the change is political will, and a bit of prodding from the citizenry. Maybe it is time we dust off that 1991 Solid Waste Plan and start implementing it. But before we do that, perhaps it is time we all start demanding recycling in our own neighborhood, and not wait for a high school class project to tackle this urgent problem.

Ecologist Pat Byington, publisher of the Bama Environmental News (www.BamaNews.com), is a senior associate with the Wilderness Society.

ROJO Vulcans Division 2B Champs

Yes - I know this isn't Alabama environmental news related, but as publisher of BEN I wanted to brag about my soccer team's 8-1 record and winning the Central Alabama Independant Soccer League 2B Division. By the way - I'm the goalie.

BEN - November 9, 2007 #294

1) Mobile Register Exposes "Muddy 98"
2) List: Alabama's Cool Cities
3) Drought Dramatically Impacts 2007 Tree Seedlings
4) Forever Wild To Add Nearly 10,000 Acres In Central Alabama
5) Governors Agree To Address Water Basin/Drought Issue
6) Alabama Power Foundation Contributes $500,000 to Parks
7) BEN Notes: NWF's Catalog Choice, The Raindrop Benefit, 3rd Annual Meeting of the American Chestnut Foundation, Yancy Branch Tree Planting, Birmingham Audubon's Christmas Banquet, University of Alabama Sustainability and Climate Change Lecture Series

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The Annual Constitution Convention Coalition Summit

On November 17th, the Constitutional Convention Coalition will be holding its annual summit at Birmingham Southern College from 9:00 to 3:00. Learn how you can help reform Alabama's Constitution by attending this very important gathering. Admission is free and lunch will be available. To register for the event, visit http://www.constitutionalreform.org or email brantley@constitutionalreform.org . Today - November 9th is the registration deadline.

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Check out the Watershed Identity Project's new Cahaba River video by Hunter Nichols on You Tube. Go to http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZMN6Ms8klso

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1. Mobile Register Exposes "Muddy 98" - For the past 2 months, the Mobile Register has broken numerous stories about the serious environmental damage that has been created by the state Department of Transportation's U.S. 98 road construction project near Big Creek Lake, Mobile's primary source of drinking water.

According to the Register, the damage from poor road construction practices include: a plume of sediment into Big Creek Lake that may require extra treatment and could reduce the lake's capacity; sediment from construction up to 2 feet deep damaging nearby wetlands and 2 to 3 inches of mud into parts of the pristine Escatawpa River.

Since the Mobile Register broke the story on September 19th, the Department of Transportation has spent $2.2 million attempting to bring the project's Best Management Practices into compliance and added one mile of additional silt fencing. The department has also delayed 23 road construction projects around the state to review environmental concerns.

Last week, in a meeting with the Register's editorial board, Joe McInnes, the Department's director stated... "I'm here to fall on my sword, to grovel, to apologize profusely." The Department of Transportation also claimed that ADEM had inspected the U.S. 98 project 16 times.

Below is a series of links/stories describing this environmental debacle in Mobile County.

Mobile Register's First Stories in September
Here
Register's Editorial
Here
McInnes Apologizes
Here
Mobile Baykeeper's Website (This sued the Dept. of Transportation 2 years ago trying to prevent problems such as the one's described above)
Here
Update: Breaking News: Register Points Out Additional Violations 5 days After Apology
Here

2. List: Alabama's Cool Cities - Here is something "cool." In Alabama, the cities of Auburn, Bessemer, Huntsville and Tuscaloosa have joined 766 cities across the US, by declaring their municipalities "Cool Cities."

A project of the Sierra Club, the cities that have become a "Cool City" have signed onto the U.S. Mayor's Climate Protection Agreement and committed their city to developing initiatives that will stem the negative impacts of climate change. To learn more "Cool Cities" and how to become one, visit - http://www.coolcities.us

3. Drought Dramatically Impacts 2007 Tree Seedlings - This year's devastating drought has claimed another victim - tree seedlings.

According to the Birmingham News, landowners planted new trees on 185,000 to 200,000 acres across the state this spring. Almost all of the seedlings will have to be plowed under and planted again (the exception being counties in Southwest Alabama) after this summer's drought and heat wave. Landowners consider a fledgling forest a success if at least 70% to 80% of the seedlings survive the first summer. According to the Alabama Forestry Commission, in the Birmingham region only 48% of the seedlings survived. In Walker county alone, only 17% of the seedlings survived.

The economic cost to private landowners is estimated at $25 million to $30 million.

4. Forever Wild To Add Nearly 10,000 Acres In Central Alabama - Last week, the Forever Wild program announced that it was about to make one of it's largest acquisitions in Central Alabama, with the purchase of 9800 acres near Rockford. The new Forever Wild property will be part of the Coosa Wildlife Management Area.

An important property that has been open to hunters since 1952, the land also contains rare mountain longleaf pine and a large group of the endangered red-cockaded woodpeckers. Along with the land, several miles along Hatchet and Weogufka creeks will be permanently protected. The willing seller of the land, the Hancock Timber Resource Group, a timber investment company, also made a special effort in the past few years to enhance the wildlife in the area and manage the land for longleaf pine.

5. Governors Agree To Address Water Basin/Drought Issue - With the announcement last month that Atlanta only has approximately a 90 day supply of water in reserve, the long standing water sharing dispute between Alabama, Georgia and Florida concerning the Alabama-Coosa-Tallapoosa and Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint river basins erupted once again.

In response to this serious regional environmental and public crisis, the governors of Georgia, Florida and Alabama met with the U.S. Corp of Engineers, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in Washington to address the matter. From the meeting, the Corps of Engineers agreed with Alabama's assertion that the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority is exceeding its allowable water withdrawals by 100% and that the Corps was to give the Atlanta area authority 10 days to explain how it will come into compliance. In addition, there was also an agreement between the parties to protect the flows into the Chattahoochee River at levels to enable the Farley nuclear plant in Southeast Alabama and Alabama industries along the river to remain in operation. The governors agreed to set a February 15th deadline to have all issues in their water dispute resolved.

** Check out the following Decatur Daily news article on the lack of water resource planning, not only in Alabama, but in the Southeast.

http://www.decaturdaily.com/decaturdaily/news/071104/water.shtml

6. Alabama Power Foundation Contributes $500,000 to Parks - In an effort to help support the region's 3 park initiative, last month, the Alabama Power Foundation announced it was donating $500,000 to park projects in Birmingham. The following is a breakdown of the contribution:

Railroad Reservation Park - A planned 18 acre green space, recreation, and entertainment park in the heart of Birmingham - $275,000

Red Mountain Park - 1000 acres in Birmingham and West Jefferson County - $175,000

Ruffner Mountain Nature Center - A 1000+ acre urban park in East Birmingham - $50,000

Check out each initiative and how they will help "transform" Birmingham's image into a green city, by visiting their websites at - http://www.ruffnermountain.org and http://www.redmountainpark.org

7. BEN Notes: NWF's Catalog Choice, The Raindrop Benefit, 3rd Annual Meeting of the American Chestnut Foundation, Yancy Branch Tree Planting, Birmingham Audubon's Christmas Banquet, University of Alabama Sustainability and Climate Change Lecture Series

NWF's Catalog Choice - Want to stop the coming "flood" of catalogs invading your mailbox this holiday season? Visit the National Wildlife Federation's Catalog Choice website at http://www.nwf.org/paper/catalogchoice.cfm to find out how.

2nd Annual Raindrop Festival Art Auction - The 2nd Annual Raindrop Festival Art Auction benefiting the Hulsey Little River Land Trust will be held November 10th at ROJO in Birmingham, Alabama. The Hulsey Land Trust was founded in 2006 in honor of Shane Hulsey, the Cahaba River Society's CLEAN Director who died in tragic accident. For information about Shane and the new Land Trust please visit http://friendsofshane.blogspot.com/2006/12/hulsey-little-river-trust.html

3rd Annual Meeting of the American Chestnut Foundation - The Alabama Chapter of the American Chestnut Foundation will be holding its 3rd Annual Meeting at the Birmingham Botanical Garden's Lecture Hall on November 17 at 10:00 AM. For additional details contact Wayne Boldin at sboldin50@alltel.net or 205-915-2863.

Yancy Branch Tree Planting - The Alabama Coastal Foundation will be holding the Yancy Branch Tree Planting on November 17th, 9:00 to Noon (meet at the Village Point Pavilion) in Daphne. Contact the ACF at angela@joinacf.org if you plan to volunteer.

Birmingham Audubon's Christmas Banquet - This year's Birmingham Audubon Society's Christmas Banquet will feature renowned history of American Birding author Scott Weidensaul on December 4th, 6:30pm at the Vestavia Country Club. The dinner and event is $35 per person. Get your reservation today by calling Mary Brewer at 205-967-0752. The deadline is November 27th. Additional info can be found at http://www.birminghamaudubon.org

University of Alabama Sustainability and Climate Change Lecture Series - Last night I attended an incredible lecture by Chris Mooney, the author of Storm World. I highly recommend Mooney's book and his website/blog http://scienceblogs.com/intersection/ . BEN readers should also check the University of Alabama's lecture series that resumes on December 6th. For details visit - http://www.as.ua.edu/apsacc

BEN - October 4, 2007 #292

1) Sierra Club Names Upper Cahaba River "Important to Protect"
2) Alabama's Scenic Byways Named
3) Drought of 2007 Impact on Agriculture
4) New Initiative Aims to Restore 37,000 Acres in Longleaf Pine Forests
5) BEN Notes I (Jobs, Grants & Websites) - Red Mountain Greenway Commission Seeking Director, NWF Outreach Position, Forests Forever Grant Application, Biodiversity Heritage Library, NWF Climate Classroom, 2007 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, National Assessment of Coastal Vulnerability to Sea Level Rise
6) BEN Notes II (Events) - Alabama Assets: Conservation Matters, Solar Home Tour, Mobile Baykeeper 10th Anniversary Celebration, Overfishing in the Gulf Press Conference, SEC's Ecofest, Alabama Coastal Bird Fest, Global Warming Conference in Birmingham, Weeks Bay Foundation to Hold Conservation Easement Seminar, 2nd Annual Raindrop Festival Art Auction

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1. Sierra Club Names Upper Cahaba River "Important to Protect" - Recently, the Sierra Club released a new national report titled "The 52 Most Important Places to Protect Within the Next 10 Years." The report identified the Upper Cahaba River in metropolitan Birmingham as a priority "place to protect" in Alabama. The Club designated the Upper Cahaba because of the river's biological diversity and it's use as a primary drinking water source for the region. Population pressures and suburban sprawl were recognized as the primary threats to the river.

To read about the Upper Cahaba and the other "51 Most Important Places" visit : http://www.sierraclub.org/wildlegacy/52places/

2. Black Warrior Scenic Byway Designated - Recently, the Black Warrior Scenic Byway was named Alabama's seventh scenic byway designated by the state Scenic Byway program. The state program, which was founded in 1998, has named the following state scenic byways since its inception:

Appalachian Highlands Scenic Byway
Barbour County Governor's Trail
Black Belt Nature and Heritage Trail
Black Warrior River Scenic Byway
Leeds Stagecoach Route
Lookout Mountain Parkway
Alabama's Coastal Connection

Alabama has three (3) National Scenic Byways

Talladega Scenic Drive
Natchez Trace Scenic Drive
Selma to Montgomery March Scenic Byway

To learn more about the Alabama Scenic Byway program, visit their website at: http://www.alabamabyways.org

3. Drought of 2007 Impact on Agriculture - According to the Birmingham News, Alabama farmers planted 50% more of their land with corn this year hoping to benefit from high corn prices resulting from increased demand for ethanol fuel production. The hope for a big payday has been spoiled by this year's drought.

According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service - the corn harvest forecast is a 31.3% increase from the 11.8 million bushels reaped in 2006. The increase occurred because the number of acres planted with corn rose from 200,000 last year to 300,000 this year - up by 50%. The predicted yield per acre for corn is 65 bushels, down from 72 bushels last year and a 10 year average of 95 acres.

Other crop impacts:

Hay Production is expected to fall from 2 tons per acre last year to 1.7 tons this year.
Peanut harvest is predicted to be 345.4 million pounds or 15.2% less than last year.
Cotton production is 470,000 bales or about 30.4% less than the 675,000 bales harvested last year.

4. New Initiative Aims to Restore 37,000 Acres in Longleaf Pine Forests - A new initiative under the U.S. Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency's (FSA) Conservation Reserve Program aims to enroll and restore 37,000 acres of Alabama forestland into Longleaf Pine Forests. The program, which began last year in October and will end this year on December 31, 2007 seeks to restore more than 250,000 acres of longleaf pine throughout the South.

Historically, the longleaf pine was the dominant tree species on an estimated 60 million acres along the coastal plain from east Texas to the Piedmont of Virginia, and extending into the Mountains of Alabama. Today natural stands of longleaf pines currently occupy less than 3 million acres of its original range. To learn how to enroll in this program, contact your local Forestry Commission office or visit the Farm Service website at http://www.fsa.usda.gov

5. BEN Notes I (Jobs, Grants & Websites) - Red Mountain Greenway Commission Seeking Director, NWF Outreach Position, Forests Forever Grant Application, Biodiversity Heritage Library, NWF Climate Classroom, 2007 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, National Assessment of Coastal Vulnerability to Sea Level Rise

Red Mountain Greenway Commission Seeking Director - The Red Mountain Greenway and Recreational Area Commission is seeking an Executive Director to lead the development and implementation of the Red Mountain Park. If you would like to request a full job description, please contact Lauren Seto at lauren@clarusgroup.net or call 205-254-0129.

The National Wildlife Federation (NWF) is seeking a regional Outreach Director for their Atlanta Southeast Office. For details and application information go to: https://secure.nwf.org/careergateway/index.cfm?fuseaction=search

Forests Forever Grant Application - The 2008 Forests Forever Grant Application is available at the Alabama Forests Forever website - http://www.alaforestsforever.org The grant applications are due November 1st. If you have any questions about the application or process, call or email Rick Oates at 334-481-2130 or roates@alaforestry.org

Biodiversity Heritage Library - Ten major natural history museum libraries, botanical libraries, and research institutions have joined to form the Biodiversity Heritage Library Project. Over 1,124 million pages of key taxonomic literature are already available on the web. To visit this site go to - http://www.biodiversitylibrary.org

NWF Climate Classroom - The National Wildlife Federation's Climate Classroom is designed to help parents and teachers talk to students of differing ages about global warming. Download slide presentations, age-adapted sources of useful curricula and educator guidelines at http://www.ClimateClassroom.org

2007 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species - The 2007 IUCN Red List of Threatened Species has been released. There are now 41,415 species on the IUCN Red List and 16,306 of them are threatened with extinction. Here is the IUCN Red List website - http://www.iucn.org/themes/ssc/redlist2007/index_redlist2007.htm

National Assessment of Coastal Vulnerability to Sea Level Rise - Check out this website on coastal vulnerability to sea rise from the US Geological Service - http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2000/of00-179/

6. BEN Notes II (Events) - Alabama Assets: Conservation Matters, Solar Home Tour, Mobile Baykeeper 10th Anniversary Celebration, Overfishing in the Gulf Press Conference, SEC's Ecofest, Alabama Coastal Bird Fest, Global Warming Conference in Birmingham, Weeks Bay Foundation to Hold Conservation Easement Seminar, 2nd Annual Raindrop Festival Art Auction

Alabama Assets: Conservation Matters - Check out Beth Maynor Young's latest opening in Birmingham at the Marilyn Wilson Gallery - Oct. 5th, 5-8PM at 3908 Clairmont Ave. Birmingham 35222. For more info call 205-591-1150 or visit http://www.kingfishereditions.com

Mobile Baykeeper 10th Anniversary Celebration - Mobile Baykeeper will be celebrating their 10th Anniversary on October 4th, 6-8 pm at the Five Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. The keynote speaker for the event will be Steve Fleischli, President of Waterkeeper Alliance. Entertainment will be provided by the local bluegrass band, Delta Reign, featuring Kenji Bunch, Composer in Residence with the Mobile Symphony. Food, beer and wine will also be served. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling Mobile Baykeeper at 251-433-4229. You can also visit http://www.mobilebaykeeper.org for additional details.

Solar Home Tour - Energize Alabama is sponsoring 2 local Solar Home tours in rural Blount County on Saturday Oct. 6th at 9:00am and 2:00pm. Register at greenworks@juno.com (put "home tour" in subject line) or call 205-429-4120. For additional info go to http://www.EnergizeAlabama.org

Overfishing in the Gulf Press Conference - On October 10th, 11:00am at Cathedral Square in downtown Mobile, a diverse coalition of Forty (40) fishermen, scientists, tourism providers and environmental groups will be holding a news conference calling for new regulations to end overfishing in the Gulf. To learn more about this event contact Emily Stone with USPIRG at 617-990-7430.

SEC's Ecofest - The Southern Environmental Center at Birmingham-Southern College will holding EcoFest 9, Thursday, October 11, 6-9pm at WORKPLAY in Birmingham. This year's gourmet food will be provided by Gray Bynum of Culinard & Chris Dupont of Cafe Dupont. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling the SEC at 205-226-4934.

Alabama Coastal Bird Fest - The 4th Annual Alabama Coastal BirdFest returns October 18-21 in Spanish Fort at the 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center. Visit http://www.alabamacoastalbirdfest.com for a complete list of field trip destinations, schedules, costs and registration and lodging information.

Global Warming Conference in Birmingham - Friends of Birmingham Botanical Gardens will be holding 'Calming Global Climate Change Symposium" on October 30, 8:30 AM to 3:00 PM at the Gardens. For registration details visit - http://www.bbgardens.org/Calming-Climate-Change_197_ev.htm or call 205-414-3950.

Weeks Bay Foundation to Hold Conservation Easement Seminar - The Weeks Bay Foundation is sponsoring an advanced seminar on conservation easements and land stewardship with Stephen Small. The seminar is scheduled for November 2nd at the Grand Hotel in Point Clear, 8:00am to 4:00pm. For more information contact Mike Shelton at 251-928-9792.

2nd Annual Raindrop Festival Art Auction - The 2nd Annual Raindrop Festival Art Auction benefiting the Hulsey Little River Land Trust will be held November 10th at ROJO in Birmingham, Alabama. The Hulsey Land Trust was founded in 2006 in honor of Shane Hulsey, the Cahaba River Society's CLEAN Director who died in tragic accident. For information about Shane and the new Land Trust please visit http://friendsofshane.blogspot.com/2006/12/hulsey-little-river-trust.html

BEN - Labor Day Special

Dear BEN Reader:

I love this time of year. It seems every Labor Day weekend the temperatures fall 10 degrees (unfortunately that means to 90 + degrees this year), soccer and football season begin, schools open, and every weekend from now until December people volunteer to help cleanup their streams and neighborhoods, birdwatch, walk in the woods and slowly observe the trees change colors.

To start the "after Labor Day" season off right, below is a list of some wonderful books, quotes, websites and activities to help prepare and energize us for this time of year.

Best Wishes,

Pat Byington
Publisher - BEN

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1) Labor Day Reading List - Mirage, Refuge, Here If You Need Me, Ivorybill Hunters and Longleaf
2) Inspirational Environmental Quotes
3) Website Resources - Helpful Tips, Photography and Environmental Reports
4) Volunteer Alabama - Opportunities to Help "Cleanup Alabama"

1. Labor Day Reading List - Mirage, Refuge, Here If You Need Me, Ivorybill Hunters and Longleaf

Below are links to books I read and re-read this summer that are timely and inspirational. One book I have yet to read (just ordered it on Amazon) Here if You Need Me: A True Story, is written by Kate Braestrup, the sister of Angel Braestrup, executive director of the Munson Foundation, a foundation that funds many worthwhile environmental projects/programs in Alabama. The reviews have been wonderful (by the way Kate was just named a CNN Hero). Here is the rest of the Labor Day Book List.

Mirage : Florida and the Vanishing Water of the Eastern U.S. by Cynthia Barnett

A timely book. I read Mirage in August, right in the middle of the heat wave/drought that was hitting Alabama. Fortunately, for my family and I, we were on vacation enjoying 70+ degree weather in the Pacific Northwest.

Refuge - An Unnatural History of Family and Place by Terry Tempest Williams

Just re-read this book. I was fortunate to meet Terry Tempest Williams more than 10 years ago at a conference in California. A graceful, inspirational woman, Refuge is about nature, cancer, beauty and simple life. A lovely book.

Ivorybill Hunters: The Search for Proof in a Flooded Wilderness by Geoffrey Hill

A fun read, especially if you are a birder in Alabama and interested in "unlocking" the Ivorybill mystery.

Longleaf by Roger Reid - also go to Roger's website here

Geared toward younger readers, Longleaf will "capture" and take your child (and you!) on a journey through Alabama's Conecuh Forest.

2. Inspirational Environmental Quotes and Passages

"Judaism prescribes blessings for ordinary events and blessings for extraordinary ones. The ordinary event, the daily rising of the sun, is greeted with a blessing that evokes a time when the world had just come into being: "We praise God who daily renews the works of creation." When it comes to extraordinary events, there is also a blessing, not well known among modern Jews, that mentions creation. The blessing is to be said 'upon seeing lightning, comets, falling stars, vast deserts, great rivers, high mountains, experiencing a great storm or an earthquake, or seeing a strikingly clear morning after an all night rainstorm." It reads, "We praise you God who provides us with moments reminiscent of creation."
- Nancy Fuchs - Our Share of Night, Our Share of Morning

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The Peace of Wild Things
- A poem by Wendell Berry

When despair for the world grows in me
and I wake in the night at the least sound
in fear of what my life and my children's lives may be,
I go lie down where the wood drake
rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds.

I come into the peace of wild things
who do not tax their lives with forethought
of grief. I come into the presence of still water.
And I feel above me the day-blind stars
waiting with their light. For a time
I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.

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A man could be a lover and defender of the wilderness without ever in his lifetime leaving the boundaries of asphalt, powerlines, and right-angled surfaces. We need wilderness whether or not we ever set foot in it. We need a refuge even though we may never need to go there. I may never in my life get to Alaska ... but I am grateful that it's there. We need the possibility of escape as surely as we need hope; without it the life of the cities would drive all men into crime or drugs or psychoanalysis.
- Edward Abbey, Desert Solitaire: A Season in the Wilderness

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I know a man who is a poet. It is true that he would not know himself by such a title, for he does not write verse; he is a farmer. He is a poet because he knows the joy of creation. A never failing delight is the appearance of living, growing plants in a patch of dirt where, only a few days before, he has placed some dry grains...
- Harold William Rickett, The Green Earth

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3. Website Resources - Helpful Tips, Photography and Environmental Reports

Check out these websites:

Helpful Tips

Wise use of water during the drought:
http://www.wateruseitwisely.com/

Save Energy - Save Money
http://www.consumerenergycenter.org
http://www.energystar.gov

Green Building Materials
http://www.greenguide.com

Sustainable Living
http://www.eartheasy.com

Nature Photography
Charles Seifried - http://www.seifriedphoto.com/
Beth Young - http://www.kingfishereditions.com

Environmental Reports
Georgia Tech "Emerging MegaRegions" Study (hit PAM Link to access file)
The Wilderness Society's "U.S. Forest Carbon and Climate Change Report "

4. Volunteer Alabama - Opportunities to Help "Cleanup Alabama

If you are interested in volunteering in a local "cleanup" this fall - below is info about events across Alabama.

Alabama Coastal Cleanup - Join volunteers from across Alabama for the 20th Annual Coastal Cleanup scheduled for September 15th. For details, visit http://www.AlabamaCoastalCleanup.com

Five Mile Creek Clean Ups - There will be cleanup events held along Five Mile Creek near Birmingham on Sept. 29, Oct. 6 and Oct. 13. Contact Francesca Gross at fgross@rpcgb.org or call 205-264-8464.

Alabama Power's Renew Our Rivers - Alabama Powers Renew Our Rivers campaign has helped organize volunteers and cleanup more than 7.5 million pounds from Alabama's lakes and stream since 2000. Check out their Fall 2007 schedule for dates, times and contact info.

BEN - August 28, 2007 #290

1) Alabama Experiencing "Exceptional" Drought Conditions
2) U.S. Fish and Wildlife Releases Preliminary 2006 National Recreation Survey
3) State and City of Montgomery Team Up on Biodiesel
4) AWF Governor's Awards Winners & AEC's Award Winners
5) BEN Notes: Nature Conservancy Open Position, New Executive Directors Hired at TNC and AEC, Alabama Clean Corridors Workshop, 8th Annual "Moon Over Three Caves" in Huntsville, "Seems to be...Home Grown Project" (in Mobile), Cahaba River Society's Cahaba By Moonlight, Rivers Alliance 2nd Annual Revival, Mobile BayKeeper 10th Anniversary Celebration, SEC's EcoFest 9

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1. Alabama Experiencing "Exceptional" Drought Conditions - According to the U.S. Drought Monitor, almost the entire state of Alabama, except for the Southwest Coastal corner of the state, is experiencing "extreme" (D3) to "exceptional" (D4) drought conditions. The U.S. Drought Mitigation Center released its report that 74% of the state is at D4, which is the highest level on the drought scale.

The Drought Monitor also reported that most long-term weather stations from Montgomery northward set or tied records for "string of days" above 100 degrees last week. About 15% of the state's water providers have reported that they have implemented some type of water restriction. Many weather stations are still reporting this year as being the driest or second driest year to date precipitation for the period of record.

In response to these conditions, the Alabama Forestry Commission issued a "No Burn Order" for 59 counties, declaring that emergency drought conditions existed in those counties. According to the Commission, 3583 fires have already occurred in 2007, burning 64,800 acres. This is approximately 62% higher loss than our annual average of 40,000. This year's fires have damaged or destroyed 40 homes and 176 other structures. Commission and volunteer fire fighters were able to save 2810 homes and 854 other structures from wildfires by their direct actions.

To learn more about the drought and the "No Burn Order" visit the following websites:

http://drought.unl.edu/dm/monitor.html
http://www.forestry.alabama.gov/Drought/afc_news_Drought_Emergency_map.htm

2. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Releases Preliminary 2006 National Recreation Survey - Earlier this month the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service released the preliminary findings from the 2006 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife-Associated Recreation Study.

Nationally, in 2006, more than 87 million Americans, or 38% of the United States' population age 16 and older hunted, fished or observed wildlife. They spent $120 billion pursuing those activities. Further broken down by category, 30 million people fished and spent $41 billion on their activities, 12.5 million hunted and spent $23 billion, and 71 million observed wildlife and spent a total of $45 billion.

Here are some of the statistics concerning Alabama (Population 16 and older):

Number of Fishing Participants - 808,000
Number of Hunting Participants - 397,000

Number of Wildlife Participants:
Around the Home Participants - 989,000
Away from Home Participants - 458,000

Expenditures Where Spending Took Place:
Fishing - $734,556,000
Hunting - $654,845,000
Wildlife Watching - $441,677,000

Percentage of Participants in Wildlife (16 years and older)
Percent Total Participants in Alabama - 40%
Percent of Sportspersons in Alabama - 20%
Percent of Wildlife Watchers in Alabama - 28%

To view the entire preliminary study visit, http://federalaid.fws.gov/surveys/surveys.html

3. State and City of Montgomery Team Up on Biodiesel - Last week, Montgomery Mayor Bobby Bright and State Agriculture Commissioner Ron Sparks announced the creation of a new innovative city-state partnership using biodiesel in 475 city of Montgomery vehicles that operate on diesel. Montgomery hopes to save about $100,000 a year by using biodiesel made from cooking oil from KFC restaurants. Using a mix called B20, the mix for the fuel is 80% diesel and 20% cooking oil. The operation expects to make about 100 gallons of biodiesel daily.

Along with being an inexpensive fuel source, the new program also addresses another major problem - the need to repair, clear and replace sewer lines because they have been clogged by cooking oil being poured down drains.

4. AWF Governor's Awards Winners & AEC's Award Winners - This month, the Alabama Wildlife Federation (AWF) and the Alabama Environmental Council (AEC) held their Annual Meetings. At each meeting, these venerable and prominent statewide conservation (AWF was founded in 1935, while the AEC was founded in 1967 as the Alabama Conservancy) groups honored individuals and organizations for their dedication to Alabama's environment. Here is a listing of the award winners.

Alabama Wildlife Federation's 2007 Governor's Conservation Award Recipients

- Legislative Conservationist of the Year - Lt. Governor Jim Folsom, House Speaker Rep. Seth Hammett, Sen. Hinton Mitchum, Sen. Kim Benefield, Sen. Jimmy Holley, Sen. J.T. Waggoner, Rep. Thomas Jackson, Rep. John Robinson, Rep. Barry Mask
- Wildlife Conservationist of the Year - Mark Bailey
- Conservationist of the Year - The Isabel & Wiley Hill Family
- Air Conservationist of the Year - Jenkins Brick Company
- Conservation Organization of the Year - Alabama River Clean Water Partnership
- Water Conservationist of the Year - Doug Fears

Alabama Environmental Council 2007 Awards

- Conservation Organization of the Year - Black Warrior Riverkeeper
- Malcolm Stewart Award - Conservation Service by a Volunteer - Joseph Lang, Fresh Air Family
- Blanche Dean Award - Outstanding Nature Educator - Marty Schulman, Ruffner Mountain
- Mary Burks Legacy Award - Jenny Dorgan
- Bob and Mary Burks Award - Outstanding Board Member - Ouida Fritschi

5. BEN Notes: Nature Conservancy Open Position, New Executive Directors Hired at TNC and AEC, Alabama Clean Corridors Workshop, 8th Annual "Moon Over Three Caves" in Huntsville, "Seems to be...Home Grown Project" (in Mobile), Cahaba River Society's Cahaba By Moonlight, Rivers Alliance 2nd Annual Revival, Mobile BayKeeper 10th Anniversary Celebration, SEC's EcoFest 9

Nature Conservancy Open Position - The Nature Conservancy of Alabama is seeking a Conservation Director. To learn about this position visit http://www.nature.org/careers/dynamic/jobs.html (go to the Birmingham, Alabama listing)

New Executive Directors Hired at TNC and AEC - Recently, The Nature Conservancy of Alabama and the Alabama Environmental Council each hired new Executive Directors to lead their organizations.

Last month, The Nature Conservancy hired their conservation director, Chris Oberholster, to take the helm of the Nature Conservancy, Alabama's largest land trust organization. A couple of weeks later, this month, the Alabama Environmental Council, after a national search, hired Michael Churchman to lead the Council. To learn more about these two environmental leaders go to -

http://www.nature.org/wherewework/northamerica/states/alabama/press/press3069.html
http://www.aeconline.ws/index.php?sn=392

Alabama Clean Corridors Workshop - The Alabama Clean Fuels Coalition will be holding a series of "Alabama Clean Corridor" workshops throughout Alabama from September 11-14. If you care about clean fuel sources and clean air these workshops are for you. For details and registration info, visit http://www.AlabamaCleanCorridors.com or call 205-402-2755.

8th Annual "Moon Over Three Caves" in Huntsville - Come join the Land Trust of Huntsville and North Alabama for their 8th Annual "Moon Over Three Caves" event. One of Huntsville's largest and "coolest" fundraising events, proceeds raised from ticket sales and the silent auction benefit the Land Trust. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling 256-534-5263. For additional details, visit http://www.landtrust-hsv.org/calendar_of_events.htm

"Seems to be...Home Grown Project" (in Mobile) - A group of Mobile fashion designers are hosting a fashion show and silent auction on Sunday, September 16th at 4:30pm at Cafe 615 in Mobile. Proceeds will benefit Mobile Baykeeper and Penelope House. Tickets are $12 and seating is limited by reservation only. For more info, contact Sarah Bohnenstiehl at 334-332-7417.

Cahaba River Society's Cahaba By Moonlight - "Cahaba By Moonlight," an event benefiting the Cahaba River Society, will be held on September 20th at 6:00 at the Carraway-Davie House and Conference Center in Birmingham. Enjoy an elegant dinner, jazz music and a live and silent auction on the historic grounds of the Carraway-Davie House. The event is open to the public. General admission is $100 per person. For additional details, visit http://www.cahabariversociety.org or call 205-32-CLEAN to make a reservation.

Rivers Alliance 2nd Annual Revival - The Friends of the Locust Fork River will be hosting the 2nd Annual River Revival, a river bluegrass festival benefiting the Alabama River Alliance, Sunday, September 30th, 1-6 pm. at King's Bend on the banks of the Locust Fork River in Cleveland, Alabama. For details, visit http://www.alabamarivers.org or call 205-322-6395.

Mobile BayKeeper 10th Anniversary Celebration - Mobile Baykeeper will be celebrating their 10th Anniversary on October 4th, 6-8 pm at the Five Rivers Delta Resource Center on the Causeway. The keynote speaker for the event will be Steve Fleischli, President of Waterkeeper Alliance. Entertainment will be provided by the local bluegrass band, Delta Reign, featuring Kenji Bunch, Composer in Residence with the Mobile Symphony. Food, beer and wine will also be served. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling Mobile Baykeeper at 251-433-4229. You can also visit http://www.mobilebaykeeper.org for additional details.

SEC's EcoFest 9 - Mark your calendar - The Southern Environmental Center at Birmingham-Southern College will holding their EcoFest 9, Thursday, October 11, 6-9pm at WORKPLAY in Birmingham. This year's gourmet food will be provided by Gray Bynum of Culinard & Chris Dupont of Cafe Dupont. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased by calling the SEC at 205-226-4934.

BEN - July 25, 2007 #288

1) Nature Conservancy to Expand Lands in Jackson County
2) Alabama Lands National Landowner Incentive Grant for Endangered Species
3) Montgomery Establishes "No Net Loss" Tree Policy
4) Sierra Club Exposes "Toxic Katrina Trailers" in Alabama and the Gulf States
5) BEN Notes: NWF Position, Teddy Roosevelt Conservation Partnership Seeking Organizer, Save the Alabama Red-Bellied Turtle, West Blocton Elementary School Honored, Forestry Commission's New Publications, Holt Lake Cleanup, NWF's Climate Classroom, Alabama Power "Plant a Tree" Grants

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Leaving a Legacy

She is leaving behind a beautiful legacy.

My good friend Jane Reed Ross, founder of Ross Land Design in Birmingham will be leaving Alabama in August to join her husband and family in Australia. A tireless environmental advocate, Jane's enthusiasm for her work and her innovative designs have touched and enriched many of our lives in the Birmingham area. Beautiful, gentle, graceful and livable open spaces and landscapes are the words that best describe her work. Some of her projects include - The Homewood Central Park, Homewood Shades Creek Greenway, Veteran's Memorial Park, the Birmingham Zoo, Regional Greenway Trail Designs and Master Tree Plans for municipalities.

More importantly, her firm, Ross Land Design will remain here in Birmingham through her business partner Lea Ann Macknally. What a wonderful gift to our community.

Thank you Jane for touching our lives.

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The Changing South

Check out the Wilderness Society's "Housing Sprawl in the Southeast - Our Vanishing Wild Places".

http://www.tws.org/OurIssues/EasternForests/SprawlSE.cfm

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Florida is Tackling Climate Change - Will Alabama?

Governor Charlie Crist, the Republican Governor of Florida, last week announced a series of policy initiatives and executive orders tackling head-on the issue of Global Climate Change. Some of Florida's initiatives include:

* Florida will immediately adopt rules to compel utilities to limit pollution causing emissions to 2000 levels by 2017, to 1990 levels by 2025.

* Most state agencies and departments will have to reduce greenhouse gas emissions faster than the rest of the state.

* Orders for the adoption of California's motor vehicle emission standards.

* The Public Service Commission will be asked to require electric companies to produce at least 20 % of their electriciy from renewable sources, with a strong focus on wind and solar energy.

To read the entire list, visit:

http://www.miamiherald.com/1060/story/170411.html or visit http://www.myfloridaclimate.com

In Alabama, the question that needs to be proposed to our state government - Will Alabama follow Florida's lead?

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1. Nature Conservancy to Expand Lands in Jackson County - Last month, according to the Huntsville Times, The Nature Conservancy (TNC) of Alabama announced plans to more than double the size of its scenic Sharp-Bingham Mountains Preserve in Jackson County.

Lynne Berry, the Conservancy's local spokesperson said that the organization plans to use a $1.5 million grant from the Minnesota-based 3M Foundation to buy 1,120 acres next to the existing preserve. Located in the Paint Rock watershed, TNC scientists have long considered this area in Northeast Alabama as one of North America's most pristine and biologically diverse watersheds. The Sharp -Bingham Preserve may also have more caves per square mile than any other spot in America, according to Berry.

For additional information about this successful project, contact The Nature Conservancy at 205-251-1155.

2. Alabama Lands National Landowner Incentive Grant for Endangered Species - Earlier this month, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service announced the recipients of $13 Million in the Landowner Incentive Program grants nationwide. The program supports cooperative efforts with private landowners interested in conserving natural habitat for species at risk, including federally listed endangered and threatened species.

Alabama's state fish and wildlife agency was one of 17 nationally to secure this competitive grant. The Alabama Department of Conservation will receive $849,510 to expand the landowner incentive program to address statewide issues. The program will focus on Longleaf Pine ecosystem restoration and stream restoration in the Cahaba, Choctawhatchee and Coosa river basins.

3. Montgomery Establishes "No Net Loss" Tree Policy - The city of Montgomery has established a new "No Net Loss Tree Policy" program to replace trees in the community.

Last year, with the help of volunteers, the city planted over 1000 native trees. Volunteers have maintained their efforts by watering weekly many of the new trees during the recent drought. Despite losing approximately 10% of the newly planted trees due to this summer's drought, the city has committed to replace them in the fall with a fresh planting effort.

4. Sierra Club Exposes "Toxic Katrina Trailers" in Alabama and the Gulf States - Here is an emerging issue from the Sierra Club. After hearing from a number of FEMA /Katrina trailer residents experiencing health problems consistent with high levels of formaldehyde exposure, the Sierra Club began testing trailers in the Spring of 2006.

The first formaldehyde exposure tests of trailers were for residents along the Gulf Coast of Mississippi. After a stunning 94% of the 31 tests came in higher than the OSHA recommended limit, Sierra Club did additional testing in Alabama and Louisiana in June and July of 2006. Out of a total of 52 tests, 83% of the trailers were above the OSHA specified limit of 0.10 parts per million. Of the remaining trailers, 4% were at the limit. Only 13% were below the limit of 0.10. The Sierra Club found formaldehyde concentrations as high as 0.34 parts per million in one trailer - a level nearly equal to what a professional embalmer using industry proscribed safety equipment would be exposed to on the job.

An estimated 150,000 FEMA trailers were distributed in Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama and Texas following the hurricanes of 2005. About 66,000 households affected by Katrina remain in trailers today. Earlier this month, Rep. Henry Waxman's House committee on oversight and government reform held a hearing on this important issue.

5. BEN Notes: NWF Position, Teddy Roosevelt Conservation Partnership Seeking Organizer, Save the Alabama Red-Bellied Turtle, West Blocton Elementary School Honored, Forestry Commission's New Publications, Holt Lake Cleanup, NWF's Climate Classroom, Alabama Power "Plant a Tree" Grants

NWF Position - The National Wildlife Federation is seeking a Regional Outreach Coordinator for their Southeast Office in Atlanta. To learn more about this position and how to apply, go to http://www.nwf.org/careergateway

Teddy Roosevelt Conservation Partnership Seeking Organizer - The Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership (TRCP), a coalition of organizations and individual grassroots partners, working together to preserve the traditions of hunting and fishing, is seeking a Lower Mississippi Regional Organizer. TRCP's policy initiatives fall into 3 categories: Expanding public access to hunting and fishing; conserving and enhancing fish and wildlife habitat; and increasing funding for fish and wildlife management. The organizer will mobilize efforts in Louisiana, Mississippi, Arkansas, Kentucky, and Tennessee. This is a contract position. To apply, send a cover letter and resume to: Tom St. Hilaire, Vice President of Conservation Management, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership - tomst@trcp.org

Save the Alabama Red-Bellied Turtle - According to Dr. David Nelson at the University of South Alabama, up to 444 Alabama red-bellied turtles were reported killed on Alabama highways between 2001-2006. Learn how you can help protect and save the Alabama red-bellied turtle, the "Official State Reptile of Alabama" by visiting the Save the Red Belly website at http://www.savetheredbelly.org

West Blocton Elementary School Honored - Here is some good news - Students at the West Blocton (Bibb County) Elementary School landed top honors in a global contest that challenges students to create innovative websites. The group of 4th graders formed a team that developed the website around the importance of keeping the Cahaba River clean. Check out their award winning website at:
http://www.bibbed.org/wbes/CSI/index.html

Forestry Commission's New Publications - The Alabama Forestry Commission has released two new publications on their website http://www.forestry.alabama.gov . The first publication is an updated version of the Commission's 31 page Best Management Practices guide. The other publication is a copy of the Forest Industries Directory.

Holt Lake Cleanup - The Black Warrior Clean Water Partnership will be hosting the 3rd Annual Renew Our Rivers Holt Lake Cleanup. The event is scheduled for August 18th, 8:00 AM at Rocky Branch Park in Peterson (just off Alabama Highway 216). For additional information about the project and how to volunteer, call Mark Meadors 205-553-9373 or Kellie Johnston 205-264-8461.

NWF's Climate Classroom - Please check out the National Wildlife Federation's new website that helps parents and teachers talk to children about global warming. It is a great new site. http://www.ClimateClassroom.org

Alabama Power "Plant a Tree" Grants - Alabama Power and the Alabama Urban Forestry Association is teaming up again to offer grants to needy communities seeking funds to support tree planting efforts. The deadline for this grant program is August 31st. To apply, visit http://www.aufa.com

BEN - July 6, 2007 #287

1) AEMC Rejects Cancer Risk Proposal ... Orders More Study
2) New Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper Plan Approved
3) TVA Approves Green Power Plan in Huntsville
4) "The Hooked on the Alabama River" Clean Water Partnership Project
5) BEN Notes: Southwings Position, Baldwin County Trailblazers Seeking Executive Director, NWF Seeking Regional Representative, EPA Power Profiler, EPA - Climate Change "What you can do", Photographer Beth Young & the SEC on WBHM's Tapestry, Alabama's Boll Organic Dress Shirts

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Check out the latest interactive maps from the Wilderness Society
Housing Density from 1940 to 2030
http://www.tws.org/OurIssues/EasternForests/SprawlSE.cfm

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1. AEMC Rejects Cancer Risk Proposal ... Orders More Study - On June 29th the Alabama Environmental Management Commission unanimously rejected a petition proposed by 18 organizations to decrease cancer causing chemicals discharged into the state's river, streams and lakes.

The Petitioners' petition asked the Commission to upgrade Alabama's environmental regulations to a more protective of health cancer risk standard (from 1 cancer to every 100,000 to 1 cancer for every million), joining 28 other states, including neighbors Mississippi, Florida and Georgia who have adopted and implemented the more health protective standard.

After the Commission's denial of the petition, the Commission asked ADEM's director Trey Glenn to appoint a committee to study and address the issue. Glenn identified five state agencies including Medicaid, Department of Conservation, Department of Agriculture, the Alabama Development Office and Department of Public Health to serve on the committee. The director also announced his intention to invite 12 industry groups or companies to report to the committee the financial impact of changing the rule. The Commission then decided that commissioners suggest members for the water quality committee and asked for the group's work to be completed by the end of the year.

In response to the use of economic factors to determine water quality standards, the attorney for the petitioners, David Ludder, stated that the commission under state and federal laws cannot consider the economics of changing the water quality standard. It may only report the economic impact to a state legislative committee, he said.

After the meeting, Commissioner Dr. Laurel Gardner, in the Birmingham News provided a glimmer of hope to advocates wanting to strengthen Alabama's water quality standard, stating, "The petition has been denied. It has not been killed. It still is very much alive."

Below are links to a video of the Commission meeting, the petition, comments and responses, and the reaction from the editorial pages of several state newspapers.

Video of the Commission Meeting
The petition,comments and articles/editorials

2. New Gulf of Mexico Red Snapper Plan Approved - According to the Mobile Register, last month the Gulf of Mexico Fishery Management Council approved a plan to protect red snapper, one of the Gulf's most popular catches.

The plan includes reducing the recreational catch limit from four fish to two per person, and sets a limit for all commercial boats at 5 million pounds for the year instead of 9.1 million as in past years. The 2 fish recreational catch limit rule had been temporarily in place over the past year, while the commercial catch had been placed at 6.5 million pounds before the current season. Along with the new more restrictive rule on commercial fishing, shrimpers must cut the amount of red snapper that come up in their nets as part of the "bycatch" - by 74% from the average for the 2001-2003 seasons.

Red snapper was declared "overfished" in 1997.

3. TVA Approves Green Power Plan in Huntsville - Last month, according to the Huntsville Times, Huntsville Utilities (HU) was given the go ahead to develop a Green Power Program that would allow customers to sell solar generated electricity to the TVA power grid.

Participants must sign a 10 year agreement to supply the supplemental energy. Meanwhile, the utility company will pay 15 cents per kilowatt hour. Today, residential customers pay on average 7 cents per kilowatt hour for electricity coming into a home. Presently, only one HU customer has expressed interest in the program, but the utility expects more interest once the marketing of the program begins in August.

4. "The Hooked on the Alabama River" Clean Water Partnership Project - Remember several years ago, the fiberglass cow sculptures that were painted and placed in front of businesses around the city of Chicago? Well, the cities of Montgomery and Prattville have one upped Chicago.

They will be placing 6 foot long "fishing lures" throughout the region in celebration of the Alabama River.

Developed by the Alabama River Clean Water Partnership, the "The Hooked on the Alabama River " project works like this: First 30 fiberglass fishing lures will be decorated by local artists and sponsored by area organizations. Each lure will be unique and will attract people to the importance of the Alabama River for our region and to the business that sponsors it. Tackle boxes (or groupings) of 2-3 lures will be on display throughout Montgomery and Prattville after the initial unveiling, which is scheduled for September 15th in downtown Montgomery along the banks of the Alabama River.

Several businesses and organizations have joined forces to make this exciting project happen, including the Alabama Power Foundation, who funded the fiberglass bases and artists supplies and groups such as the World Wildlife Fund, the Mid-South Resource Conservation Development Council, Alabama Forestry Association, International Paper, CH2M Hill and LWT Marketing. To learn more about the "Giant Fishing Lures" contact Ashley Henderson, with Alabama River Clean Water Partnership at 334-300-3392 or ahendersonCWP@charter.net . You can also visit their website at http://www.hookedontheAlabamaRiver.com .

5. BEN Notes: Southwings Position, Baldwin County Trailblazers Seeking Executive Director, NWF Seeking Regional Representative, EPA Power Profiler, EPA - Climate Change "What you can do", Photographer Beth Young & the SEC on WBHM's Tapestry, Alabama's Boll Organic Dress Shirts

Southwings Position - Southwings, "The Environmental Air Force," is a nonprofit conservation organization based in Asheville, NC. Currently, they are seeking an Administrative and Fundraising Associate. If you are interested - email taylor@southwings.org to request a detailed job description.

Baldwin County Trailblazers Seeking Executive Director - The Baldwin County Trailblazers, a group whose mission it is to establish a network of county wide biking, jogging and hiking trails, is seeking an Executive Director. To apply, email resumes to tlr099@bellsouth.net

NWF Seeking Regional Representative - The National Wildlife Federation is seeking a regional representative to be based in their Southeastern Natural Resource Center in Atlanta. To apply online, visit http://www.nwf.org/careergateway/

EPA Power Profiler - With a few clicks on your mouse, you can see how your energy use is affecting the Earth through the new "EPA Power Profiler" calculator. Some of the results may surprise you. Check it out at http://epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/calculator/ind_calculator.html

EPA - Climate Change "What you can do" - After you use your EPA Power Profiler Calculator, visit EPA's Climate Change - "What you can do" website. The site provides 25 easy action steps everyone can take. Go to - http://epa.gov/climatechange/wycd/index.html

Photographer Beth Young & the SEC on WBHM's Tapestry - Check out this week WBHM's "Tapestry" radio program featuring Nature photographer - Beth Young and the Southern Environmental Center at Birmingham Southern College. You can listen to the programs at: http://www.wbhm.org/Tapestry/index.html

Alabama's Boll Organic Dress Shirts - Check out an Alabama business that is pioneering the organic cotton dress shirt industry. Started two years ago by Kevin Russell "Boll Organic" remains the only company in the world making organic dress shirts. Visit their website at http://www.bollorganic.com

B'ham News - Preserve God's Tapestry in Alabama

My latest Commentary in the Birmingham News

We must preserve God's vibrant tapestry in this state

Sunday, June 10, 2007

To look around at the richness of Alabama's diversity of plants and animals is to be struck by the awesome responsibility of preserving God's vibrant tapestry in this state.

That's not an idle concern for Bishop Heron Johnson, pastor of the Faith Apostolic Church in Powderly, concerning the endangered watercress darter: "I think, if you have something this valuable and God-given, something this special, you've got to protect it. But where to begin?"

The rare and colorful two-inch watercress darter was found in a local Jefferson County spring that originates on the property of Bishop Johnson's church.

Johnson doesn't ask why we should care about a fish no bigger than an index finger, but rather where we begin the process of ensuring its survival. Alabama is blessed with more different kinds of fish, turtles, crayfish, snails and mussels than any other state in the United States. Our biodiversity is what makes this place special. Protection of these gifts is a difficult and challenging responsibility. But we must find a place to begin.

Perhaps we should begin by taking the lead from the many people who have dedicated their lives to preserving the watercress darter.

Recently, I was treated to a fascinating story by Mike Howell, the retired fish biologist who discovered the watercress darter and a beloved teacher from Samford University. He told of how a generation of Alabamians took responsibility for one of the state's tiniest citizens, and saved it.

His tale began more than 43 years ago when he was a graduate student at the University of Alabama under Herb Boschung, a scientist many consider the father of fish biology in this state.

In 1964, scientists from Tulane University had found a new species of salamander in Jefferson County springs near Bessemer. Following up on the new discovery, Howell and a fellow graduate student Dale Caldwell were asked by Boschung to venture into the same place the salamanders were found, but this time they were dipping their nets to find fish.

You can only imagine the breathtaking excitement and wonder that the two graduate students felt when their dip nets revealed a species never before seen or described in science - the watercress darter. For a fish biologist it must have felt like Columbus on first seeing the New World.

"The world's greatest artists couldn't dream up the (watercress darter's) colors. A visual treat that does something to the spirit - like a beautiful sunset," Howell told me.

Little did Howell know at the time, but his discovery of the rainbow-colored, two-inch darter would have a dramatic impact on his life and the lives of so many others.

After its discovery, Howell spent a couple of years describing, naming and making "known" to science the watercress darter. A specimen of the darter was even sent to the National Museum of Natural History at the Smithsonian. More importantly, after the discovery process was complete, the real work of saving the watercress darter began in earnest.

In 1973, the Endangered Species Act became the law of the land. Shortly after its passage, the watercress darter was listed as endangered, the first fish in Alabama to be so protected. This action led to the creation of a watercress darter recovery team headed by Howell. Their task was simple: to monitor and take care of the darter.

Immediately, the scientists and conservationists worked to enhance the darter's habitat, taking out a small dam. The group also removed predatory bass from the darter's stream. After additional research and exploration, the darter also was discovered in a nearby Bessemer spring fed lake and subsequently in the Roebuck and Powderly areas of Jefferson County.

The watercress darter was even transplanted into springs near Turkey Creek where scientists were fortunate to discover two additional endangered fish, the Vermillion and Rush darters. These three darter species are found only in one place in the world: right here in our region's creeks and streams.

Seven years after the passage of the Endangered Species Act, the watercress darter's habitat was permanently protected when federal conservation funds were made available to preserve approximately 23 acres of watercress darter habitat in Jefferson County. The area was then designated as the Watercress Darter National Wildlife Refuge, the smallest National Wildlife Refuge in the nation.

Today, local groups and communities have become guardians of the darter. In 2002, the Faith Apostolic Church congregation lovingly embraced the watercress darter as a sacred reminder of God's creation and our responsibility to care for it. They enlisted local friends like the Freshwater Land Trust that developed ways the church can protect the stream, the land, and the fish.

Birmingham Audubon members have for years adopted the Bessemer site, keeping a watchful eye on the refuge, removing litter while enjoying the birds that visit the area. Along with these groups, the Freshwater Land Trust, Samford University, Birmingham-Southern College, the Fish and Wildlife Service, and Alabama's Department of Conservation have joined forces on behalf of the darter.

Asked why he put such an effort into saving this one, tiny creature, Howell replied, "God put us in the most beautiful garden and told us to take care of it. That fish is an extension of the Garden of Eden."

Now, that is a place to begin. Ecologist Pat Byington is a senior associate with the Wilderness Society. E-mail: pkbyington@aol.com.

BEN - June 10, 2007 #286

Bama Environmental News - BEN
http://www.BamaNews.com
June 10, 2007 #286

1) Environmental Commission Committee Denies Cancer Risk Rule
2) Beach Mouse Prevents Construction of Condos On Fort Morgan Peninsula
3) Study: Alabama Ranks 46th in Energy Efficiency
4) BEN Notes: Environmental Council Seeking Director, Teaching Position at Turtle Point Science Center, JSU Breaks Ground on New Little River Canyon Center, 2007 Water Resources Conference at Auburn University, Alabama Nature Center to Open, Black Warrior Riverkeeper MySpace Supporters Reach 10,000, Black Warrior Riverkeepers Benefit, Mobile Manatees to be Tracked, Commute Smart in Birmingham

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Please check out today's Birmingham News Sunday Commentary that was written by BEN editor and publisher Pat Byington. You can access the article at the following link.



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Check out the transcript of this recent address given by former President Bill Clinton at Harvard College Class Day 2007. Link to the transcript here -

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1. Environmental Commission Committee Denies Cancer Risk Rule - On June 1st, the Alabama Environmental Management Commission's rulemaking committee voted to deny a petition for rulemaking offered by state environmental groups to lower the threshold for industry discharge of 58 known carcinogens into state waterways.

According to the Montgomery Advertiser, at the proposed lower concentration, scientists estimate there would only be one chance in a million of a human getting cancer from potential exposure. At Alabama's current level - the minimum that the federal government requires - the estimate is 10 people in a million.

Every state in the South (including Alabama's neighbors Mississippi, Florida and Georgia) except for Tennessee and Alabama, presently use the more stringent cancer risk health standard. Written comments in opposition to the more stringent cancer risk health standard were submitted by the Alabama Power Company, the Business Council of Alabama and the Alabama Coal Association.

On June 29th, the entire Environmental Management Commission will have an opportunity to accept or reverse the rulemaking committee's decision. For a copy of the proposed petition go to: https://home.comcast.net/~davidaludder/Cancer_Risk_Petition_and_Exhibit_1.pdf

Breaking News - On Friday, the Birmingham News wrote an editorial in support of the proposed more stringent health standard.

2. Beach Mouse Prevents Construction of Condos On Fort Morgan Peninsula - According to a June 1st Mobile Register report, the endangered Alabama beach mouse temporarily stopped the construction of a controversial multi-million dollar condo development on the Fort Morgan peninsula.

Judge William Steele granted the preliminary injunction against the 40 acre Beach Club West development after finding that a critical document from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, known as a "Biological Opinion" likely reached "arbitrary and capricious" conclusions.

The suit which was brought forth by the Sierra Club, the Gulf Restoration Network and the Center for Biological Diversity contented that the Fish and Wildlife Service failed to adequately address how development would impact the survival and recovery of the endangered mouse. The Alabama beach mouse, which has been on the Endangered Species list since 1985, has seen its habitat greatly diminish from development and hurricane damage over the years.

3. Study: Alabama Ranks 46th in Energy Efficiency - Last week, the nonpartisan American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy released a state by state scorecard grading and ranking states on various policy actions taken to become more energy efficient. Alabama ranked 46th nationally, receiving just two (2) points out of a maximum 44 points. Only Mississippi, North and South Dakota and Wyoming placed lower in energy efficiency.

Among the factors contributing to Alabama's poor ranking: no statewide building energy code, no policy to encourage better fuel economy and no ratepayer-funding to invest in electric energy efficiency programs. The State Energy Efficiency Scorecard for 2006 can be found at http://www.aceee.org

4. BEN Notes: Environmental Council Seeking Director, Teaching Position at Turtle Point Science Center, JSU Breaks Ground on New Little River Canyon Center, 2007 Water Resources Conference at Auburn University, Alabama Nature Center to Open, Black Warrior Riverkeeper MySpace Supporters Reach 10,000, Black Warrior Riverkeepers Benefit, Mobile Manatees to be Tracked, Commute Smart Birmingham

Environmental Council Seeking Director - The Alabama Environmental Council is seeking an executive director. To learn more about the position and how to apply, visit http://www.aeconline.ws The deadline to apply is July 1st.

Teaching Position at Turtle Point Science Center - There is an environmental education teaching position open at the Turtle Point Science Center in Escambia County. To apply, visit http://turtlepoint.org

JSU Breaks Ground on New Little River Canyon Center - Jacksonville State University will be "breaking ground" on the Little River Canyon Center, Monday, June 11th at 9:00 AM. The event will feature architectural renderings, floor plans, three dimensional models, building materials and a construction schedule. The Center will be built as a public facility that is centered on the Little River Canyon National Preserve. For more information about the project, visit http://epic.jsu.edu .

2007 Water Resources Conference at Auburn University - Auburn University will be holding its 2007 Water Resources Conference "Bridging the Gap Between Science, People and Policies" on June 14-15 at The hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center. For details visit http://www.nrmdi.auburn.edu/water/conference/2007/

Alabama Nature Center to Open - The Alabama Nature Center in Milbrook will be open to the public 8:00 am to 6:00 pm on June 16 and 17. General admission is $3 per person/per day for ages ten and older, $2 per person/per day ages three to ten, and children under three are free. Please check out this new and exciting nature center at the headquarters of the Alabama Wildlife Federation. Visit http://www.alabamawildlife.org for more info.

Black Warrior Riverkeeper MySpace Supporters Reach 10,000 - The Black Warrior Riverkeepers were recently nominated as one of 3 Finalists for the MySpace Impact Award - an award honoring MySpace members for the positive impact they have had on our culture. Presently, more than 10,000 people have become Black Warrior Riverkeeper "My Space Friends." Check out the group's Friends page at http://www.myspace.com/black_warrior_riverkeeper

Black Warrior Riverkeepers Benefit - The Black Warrior Riverkeepers will be holding a benefit concert at The Bottletree in Birmingham on June 14th, at 8:00 pm. Tickets are $10.00. For additional information call Charles Scribner - 205-458-0095.

Mobile Manatees to be Tracked - Scientists from the Dauphin Island Sea Lab have created "Mobile Manatees" a group dedicated toward helping track manatee sightings in local waters. For info on how to participate, visit http://manatee.disl.org

Commute Smart in Birmingham - Tired of rising gas prices? Want to do something to reduce your ecological footprint? Contact Commute Smart Birmingham by calling 1-87 - RIDEMATCH or visit http://www.commutesmart.org

BEN - May 1, 2007 #284

In Honor of Dr. Ron Jenkins

1. Carbon Dioxide Levels in Alabama Growing Faster Than National Average
2. Alabama Ranks Last Nationally In Implementing Climate Change Programs
3. Forever Wild Adds Two Additional Tracts
4. Wolf Bay Designated Outstanding Alabama Water Use Classification
5. BEN Notes: Nature Conservancy Executive Director Position, MAWASS Grease Recycling Program, Spring Concert at Three Caves, Cocktails with the Critters, Alabama Coastal Foundation's Crawfish Craze, River Action Day, Cahaba Lily Festival in West Blocton, Cahaba River Society's Ramble

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In Honor of Dr. Ron Jenkins

Dear Readers:

A week and a half ago I was fortunate to attend a reception and dinner at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens honoring Dr. E.O. Wilson, an Alabamian who is considered one of the world's most prominent scientists. Sitting at the head table and introducing Dr. Wilson at the dinner and the conference the following day at Samford University was Dr. Ron Jenkins. How appropriate I thought.... a "spider guy" (Ron published with Dr. Mike Howell the book Spiders of the Eastern United States) sitting with the "ant guy" (Wilson was famous for his work and study of ants). What a wonderful sight - two scientists who teach us the world through God's smallest creatures.

Ron passed away last Friday of cancer, only a week, exactly seven days after seeing Wilson and him together. He was a scientist, teacher, a passionate environmental advocate and friend. We will all miss him dearly.

At his memorial last night, we sang with a loud voice and heavy heart a beautiful hymn called God of the Sparrow, a hymn Ron particularly asked to be played that evening, the night of his memorial, with passion and a lifting spirit. In honor, memory and celebration of Ron today, below are the lovely words to that hymn.

Best Wishes,

Pat Byington
Publisher, BEN

God of the Sparrow by Roeder

God of the sparrow
God of the whale
God of the swirling stars
How does the creature say Awe
How does the creature say Praise

God of the earthquake
God of the storm
God of the trumpet blast
How does the creature cry Woe
How does the creature cry Save

God of the rainbow
God of the cross
God of the empty grave
How does the creature say Grace
How does the creature say Thanks

God of the hungry
God of the sick
God of the prodigal
How does the creature say Care
How does the creature say Life

God of the neighbor
God of the foe
God of the pruning hook
How does the creature say Love
How does the creature say Peace

God of the ages
God near at hand
God of the loving heart
How do your children say Joy
How do your children say Home

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1. Carbon Dioxide Levels in Alabama Growing Faster Than National Average - Last week, a new study released by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group (USPIRG) concluded that carbon dioxide emissions in Alabama have been growing far faster than the national average.

According to a Mobile Register April 17th article on the release of the study, from 1990 to 2004, releases of carbon dioxide - which has been linked to global warming - rose 29 percent in Alabama to about 141 million metric tons. Nationally, discharges rose 18 percent during that same period. Per capita, Alabama ranks 9th nationally for carbon dioxide emissions. The USPIRG report is based on federal data.

Since 1990, power generation in Alabama has increased more than 60 percent according to Alabama Power spokesman Michael Sznajderman. Alabama's primary source of power generation, coal-fired power plants, contributed two-thirds of the increase in emissions, while much of the rest came from cars and trucks.

To view the USPIRG report go to: http://www.uspirg.org/home/reports/report-archives/global-warming-solutions/global-warming-solutions/the-carbon-boom-state-and-national-trends-in-carbon-dioxide-emissions-since-1990

2. Alabama Ranks Last Nationally In Implementing Climate Change Programs - According to a recent Pew Center on Global Climate Change ranking, Alabama ranks last with four other states in the implementation of climate change initiatives and programs. Presently, only four of 20 possible climate change initiatives have been taken by the state, including a climate change policy model and plan that was completed more than 10 years ago at the University of Alabama.

Other southeastern states, including North Carolina and South Carolina have recently launched climate change policy panels to address the environmental and economic impact of climate change. To view the entire Pew Report go to: http://www.pewclimate.org/what_s_being_done/in_the_states/
state_action_maps.cfm

3. Forever Wild Adds Two Additional Tracts - Recently, two tracts of ecologically significant and sensitive property have been purchased by Alabama's Forever Wild Program.

The first tract in Mobile County is 1,642 acres in the Grand Bay Savannah, adjacent to existing Forever Wild lands. Forever Wild land in the area now totals 5000 acres. According to Greg Lein of the State Lands Division, "Its a pine savannah with the largest pitcher plant bog complex in the state of Alabama. The Grand Bay Savannah is a very popular area for the Coastal Birding Trail."

The second tract recently purchased was 9304 acres in Baldwin County currently in the Perdido River Wildlife Management Area, an 18,000 acre tract with 15 miles of frontage on the Perdido River. The land, which is home to the gopher tortoise and the indigo snake will be converted to its native longleaf pine habitat. The purchase of the Perdido River tract was made possible by the Nature Conservancy which held the land until Forever Wild could purchase it.

4. Wolf Bay Designated Outstanding Alabama Water Use Classification - On April 20, the Alabama Environmental Management voted unanimously to add the use classification "Outstanding Alabama Water" (OAW) to Wolf Bay, from the Intracoastal Waterway to Moccasin Bayou in Baldwin County.

A more stringent and protective use classification, the new OAW designation was made possible because of the tireless efforts of a local watershed group, Wolf Bay Watch and ADEM staff who performed the necessary work to meet OAW requirements. In Alabama, other "Outstanding Alabama Waters" include approximately 173 miles of sections of the Cahaba and Little Cahaba Rivers, 75 miles of portions of Hatchet Creek; and 42 miles of segments of the Tensaw River.

5. BEN Notes: Nature Conservancy Executive Director Position, MAWASS Grease Recycling Program, Spring Concert at Three Caves, Cocktails with the Critters, Alabama Coastal Foundation's Crawfish Craze, River Action Day, Cahaba River Society's Ramble, Cahaba Lily Festival in West Blocton

Nature Conservancy Executive Director Position - The Alabama Chapter of the Nature Conservancy is seeking an Executive Director. To learn more about this position go to: The application deadline is May 30, 2007.

MAWASS Grease Recycling Program - The Mobile Area Water and Sewer System has expanded their grease recycling program. Since the program's inception, more than 8000 people have picked up recycling containers resulting in over 1700 gallons of grease being collected. To take advantage of the "It's Easy to be Ungreasy" recycling program, visit http://www.itseasytobeungreasy.com or call 251-694-3100.

Spring Concert at Three Caves - Dualtone recording artist, RobinElla and the CCstringband will headline the 2nd Annual Spring Concert at historic Three Caves (in Huntsville) on Thursday, May 3rd, 6:00pm. The concert highlights The Land Trust of Huntsville and North Alabama's 20th Anniversary Celebration. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at 256-534-5263. Please RSVP today.

Cocktails with the Critters - National Geographic's Photographer in Residence, David Doubilet will be the guest of honor at "Cocktails for Critters." The event will be held at the Five Rivers Alabama's Delta Resource Center on May 3rd from 6:30 until 9:30, and will benefit the Dauphin Island Sea Lab Foundation. Tickets are $75. For additional info call 251-861-8710.

Alabama Coastal Foundation's Crawfish Craze - Join the Alabama Coastal Foundation for the 5th Annual Crawfish Craze, to be held May 10th, 6:00 pm at the 5 Rivers Delta Center on the Causeway. To order tickets visit, http://www.joinacf.org or call 251-990-6002.

River Action Day - Join the Alabama Rivers Alliance, Conservation Alabama and the Southern Environmental Law Center for "River Action Day" in Montgomery on May 15th. Learn how you can attend and advocate for the Alabama Water Agenda by visiting : http://www.AlabamaWaterAgenda.com

Cahaba River Society Ramble - The Cahaba River Society will be holding its 2nd Annual Cahaba River Ramble Trail Run and "C the River " Conservation and Education event on May 19th at the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge. The event will benefit the Shane Hulsey, CLEAN Field Environmental Education Program. For details visit http://www.cahabariversociety.org or call 205-32-CLEAN.

Cahaba Lily Festival in West Blocton - Come celebrate Alabama's most famous lily at the Cahaba Lily Festival on May 26, at the Cahaba Lily Center on Main Street in West Blocton. To access the full day long activity schedule, go to http://www.cahabariversociety.org