22 Apr 2014

USDA Awards Research Grants to Address the Impact of Climate Change on U.S. Agriculture Production

By USDA Office of Communications

Des Moines, Iowa, April 22, 2014 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced today that USDA's National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) awarded $6 million to 10 universities to study the effects of climate on agriculture production and develop strategies to provide farmers and ranchers with the solutions they need to supply the nation with quality food. Vilsack made the announcement during remarks at "The Frontier of Climate Change: State and Local Action in the Heartland" conference held at Drake University.

"With longer growing seasons and an increased number of extreme weather events, climate-related changes are increasingly posing new challenges and risks for America's producers," said Vilsack. "Every day, farmers and ranchers see the impact that changes in climate patterns have on their operations, and they are contending with drought, floods or extreme temperatures. The discoveries these grants will lead to will be invaluable for American farmers whose livelihoods directly depend on the nation's land and water resources."

NIFA made the awards through its Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI) funding opportunity in the Climate Variability and Change challenge area. NIFA's climate work is focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing carbon sequestration in agricultural and forest production systems and preparing the nation's agriculture and forests to adapt to changing climates.

The fiscal year 2013 awards announced today include :

  • University of Colorado, Boulder, Colo., $900,000 - This study will provide an integrated social and biophysical assessment of vulnerability and adaptation to climate change and variability in the Blue Mountains ecoregion of Oregon.
  • Florida International University, Miami, Fla., $250,000 - This project will study the mechanism of Ochratoxin-A toxicity in wine-musts (freshly pressed grape juice for wine making) which is predicted to intensify in winemaking regions because of the increased prevalence of the toxin producing fungi in warmer climates, and create an inexpensive and simple method of detoxification.
  • Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa, $550,000 - The goal of this research is to examine factors that either facilitate or hinder climate adaptation, while assessing the role of human-made infrastructure and policies that protect natural resources, grassland and wetlands. .
  • Michigan State University, East Lansing, Mich., $975,000 - This project will seek to define the effects of hot and cold temperatures on turkey growth and development and develop management practices to mitigate these effects.
  • University of Minnesota, St. Paul, Minn., $25,000 - This is a conference grant to support the National Extension Climate Science Initiative Conference, which will empower Extension professionals and collaborators with the latest in climate science research and delivery methods.
  • Montana State University, Bozeman, Mont., $800,000 - This project will determine what effects a climate-induced rise in water temperature will have on rainbow trout gut microbial communities and fish metabolism.
  • Cornell University, Ithaca, N.Y., $600,000 - This project will evaluate the resiliency of rice production with increasing climate uncertainty by developing models integrating historical rice yield data at the county and farm level, weather variables, and genotypic parameters.
  • Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Okla., $1,000,000 - The project will provide some of the first climate adaptation tools for beef production systems in the form of water management resources and lead to the development of beef cattle that are adaptable to climate change induced drought.
  • Pennsylvania State University, University Park, Pa., $750,000 - This project aims to strengthen farm operators' capacity to manage cropping system's adaptation to climate change by providing real time online decision making tools.
  • West Virginia University, Morgantown, W.V., $150,000 - This project will study the effect of climate change on interactions among solitary pollinator bees, bee parasites and crops.

AFRI is NIFA's flagship competitive grant program established under the 2008 Farm Bill and supports work in six priority areas: 1) plant health and production and plant products; 2) animal health and production and animal products; 3) food safety, nutrition and health; 4) renewable energy, natural resources and environment; 5) agriculture systems and technology; and 6) agriculture economics and rural communities.

Through federal funding and leadership for research, education and extension programs, NIFA focuses on investing in science and solving critical issues impacting people's daily lives and the nation's future. More information is available at: www.nifa.usda.gov.

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USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To file a complaint of discrimination, write to USDA, Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Stop 9410, Washington, DC 20250-9410, or call toll-free at (866) 632-9992 (English) or (800) 877-8339 (TDD) or (866) 377-8642 (English Federal-relay) or (800) 845-6136 (Spanish Federal-relay).


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22 Apr 2014

USDA Rural Development Celebrates Earth Day by Supporting Water Quality Projects in 40 States and Puerto Rico

By USDA Office of Communications
2014 Farm Bill Enables Record USDA Investments in Rural Water Systems

WASHINGTON, April 22, 2014 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today celebrated Earth Day by announcing record support for 116 projects that will improve water and wastewater services for rural Americans and benefit the environment.

"Having reliable, clean and safe water is essential for any community to thrive and grow," Vilsack said. "I am proud that USDA helps build rural communities from the ground up by supporting water infrastructure projects like these. I am especially proud that we can help communities that are struggling economically and those that have urgent health and safety concerns due to their failing water systems."

Today's announcement is USDA's largest Earth Day investment in rural water and wastewater systems. Nearly $387 million is being awarded to 116 recipients in 40 states and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. The Department is providing $150 million in grants through the 2014 Farm Bill plus $237 million in loans and grants from USDA's Water and Environmental Program.

Also noteworthy this year are USDA's accomplishments to help communities with the greatest needs. Sixteen of the Earth Day projects are in areas of persistent poverty. Twenty-nine are in communities served by USDA's "StrikeForce Initiative for Rural Growth and Opportunity." StrikeForce is a USDA initiative to reduce poverty by increasing investments in rural communities through intensive outreach and stronger partnerships with community leaders, businesses, foundations and other groups that are working to combat poverty.

Climate change in particular is putting more stress on municipal water systems. Many areas around the country have seen changes in rainfall, resulting in more floods, droughts, declines in snowpack, intense rain, as well as more frequent and severe heat waves. All of these are placing fiscal strains on communities - causing them to make more frequent (and often more expensive) repairs and upgrades.

Among projects funded this year, the city of McCrory, Ark., is receiving $2.1 million to build a water treatment facility and two water supply wells, and refurbish its two water storage tanks. The improvements will reduce high manganese and iron levels in the water supply to provide safe drinking water to McCrory's nearly 800 residents. McCrory is in Woodruff County, a persistent poverty area that is part of USDA's "StrikeForce initiative for Rural Growth and Opportunity."

Paintsville, Ky., is receiving a $4.9 million loan and $2.1 million grant to rehabilitate its sanitary and stormwater sewer systems. This is one of 10 projects funded by USDA that will improve water infrastructure in rural areas of Kentucky. The Paintsville project will serve nearly 2,300 residents and businesses and protect the ecosystems of Paint Creek and nearby lakes.

The city of San Joaquin, Calif., is receiving a $1 million loan/grant combination to replace a contaminated well. The city had to shut down one of its three wells due to high levels of bacteria. Once completed, this project will ensure San Joaquin residents have safe, clean drinking water.

In Ohio, the Erie County Commissioners will use $3 million in loans and nearly $3 million in grants to replace individual on-site waste treatment systems that discharge into and pollute the Sandusky Bay and surrounding areas. The commissioners also will build a wastewater collection system for the Village of Bay View and the neighboring Bay Bridge area. The Bay View peninsula is a vital ecological and economic area in the Western Basin of Lake Erie.

Earth Day is observed annually on April 22 to raise awareness about the role each person can play to protect vital natural resources and safeguard the environment. Since the first Earth Day celebration in 1970, the event has expanded to include citizens and governments in more than 195 countries.

President Obama's plan for rural America has brought about historic investment and resulted in stronger rural communities. Under the President's leadership, these investments in housing, community facilities, businesses and infrastructure have empowered rural America to continue leading the way - strengthening America's economy, small towns and rural communities. USDA's investments in rural communities support the rural way of life that stands as the backbone of our American values. President Obama and Agriculture Secretary Vilsack are committed to a smarter use of federal resources to foster sustainable economic prosperity and ensure the government is a strong partner for businesses, entrepreneurs and working families in rural communities.

USDA, through its Rural Development mission area, has a portfolio of programs designed to improve the economic stability of rural communities, businesses, residents, farmers and ranchers and improve the quality of life in rural America.

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USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave., S.W., Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (866) 632-9992 (Toll-free Customer Service), (800) 877-8339 (Local or Federal relay), (866) 377-8642 (Relay voice users).

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21 Apr 2014

Governor Quinn Proclaims Tuesday, April 22, Earth Day in Illinois

By Katie Hickey

Urges People Across the State to Go Green and Continue Environmental Consciousness

CHICAGO - Governor Pat Quinn proclaimed Tuesday, April 22 as "Earth Day" in Illinois and urged residents to get outdoors and involved in keeping Illinois at the forefront of conservation and sustainability. The Governor also discussed the work the state is doing to improve sustainability and protect our environment. Today's proclamation is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to protect our natural resources and ensure a clean and healthy environment for future generations.

"We want every day to be Earth Day in Illinois and everyone should do their part to help preserve, sustain and beautify our state," Governor Quinn said. "Study after study is finding that Illinois is leading the way in sustainability - from the most communities using renewable energy to being number one in the nation for sustainable buildings. By working together we can keep the progress going and make Illinois the greenest state in the nation."

Later this week, Governor Quinn will host The Council of Great Lakes Governors' (CGLG) 2014 Governors' and Premiers' Meeting. The meeting will bring a number of U.S. Governors and Canadian Premiers to Illinois to discuss ways to ensure that the entire Great Lakes region is economically sound and environmentally conscious in addressing today's problems and tomorrow's challenges. Governor Quinn is the Co-Chair of the non-partisan partnership of the Governors of the eight U.S. states that border the Great Lakes, with Canadian provinces of Ontario and Québec.

Since taking office, Governor Quinn has led Illinois on a path to sustainability. Earlier this month, the Governor announced $16.5 million in investments for 46 local park projects across Illinois. Last weekend the Governor announced a $1.6 million investment in environmental and education projects along the Lake Michigan shoreline and in the Millennium Reserve-Calumet region. The projects are funded through the Illinois Coastal Management Program, which was formed in 2012 by Governor Quinn to protect Illinois' 63-mile Lake Michigan shoreline.

Last month, a new report found that Illinois leads the nation in the number of communities using renewable electricity. The 91 communities that have transitioned to 100 percent renewable electricity represent more than 1.7 million individuals. According to the report, demand for renewable energy from the state is more than six terawatt hours, a reduction in greenhouse gas comparable to taking more than one million cars off the road. The report was released by the Environmental Law & Policy Center, Sierra Club, World Wildlife Fund, LEAN Energy US, the Illinois Solar Energy Association and George Washington University Solar Institute.

In February, the U.S. Green Building Council ranked Illinois number one among all 50 states in the sustainable building design movement. Illinois has more than 29 million square feet of certified green buildings, or 2.29 square feet for every resident. Utilizing less energy and water, LEED-certified spaces save money for families, businesses and taxpayers; reduce carbon emissions; and contribute to a healthier environment for residents, workers and the larger community.

In his State of the State address on Jan. 29, 2014, Governor Quinn announced that the available funding from the Illinois Clean Water Initiative (ICWI) will be doubled to $2 billion and stormwater management infrastructure projects will also be eligible for low-interest loans as well as drinking water and wastewater treatment plants and distribution and collection systems. First announced in Governor Quinn's 2012 State of the State address, ICWI was launched in the fall of 2012 and has created several thousand jobs in communities across Illinois. To learn more visit CleanWater.Illinois.gov.

Illinois is a leader in solar energy. In 2013, Governor Quinn, along with Shedd leadership and Illinois sustainability champions, unveiled a 265-kilowatt project that is the biggest solar panel installation in any cultural institution in the state. The energy-efficient panels are part of Shedd's Master Energy Roadmap - an ambitious energy initiative aiming to cut energy consumption in half by 2020, transforming the aquarium into the nation's first clean energy-powered cultural institution.

The Governor set a green example for all Illinois residents by transforming the 159-year old Illinois Executive Mansion, visited by Abraham Lincoln and six other of our nation's Presidents, into a model of sustainable living. In 2010, Governor Quinn planted his own vegetable garden inspired by First Lady Michelle Obama to help offer a healthy menu for Executive Mansion guests; installed rain barrels to divert rainwater out of the municipal sewer system and into the Mansion's vegetable garden; created a compost pile to transform food scraps and landscaping debris into rich nutrients which are spread over the Mansion's vegetable garden, shrubs and trees; and solar panels, donated by three Illinois firms, were installed to make Illinois the second Governor's Mansion in the U.S. to go solar.

In 2011, the Illinois Executive Mansion became the first in the nation to install a charging station for electric vehicles. In 2012, LED lighting was installed throughout the Executive Mansion. The new system consumes 90 percent less energy, lasts for 10 years and poses less of a threat to historic artifacts. Additionally, digital water meters are installed to better monitor usage; aging air conditioners were replaced with an energy efficient system.

The Governor today also encouraged all state employees to participate in "No Print Week," a program from April 21-25, to help increase awareness about paper usage and reduce unnecessary paper consumption.  "No Print Week" comes after the success of 2013's "No Print Day." In fiscal year 2013, Illinois recycled 5,521,906 pounds of paper, 830,714 pounds of OCC (card board), 2,486 pounds of plastic, 4,114 pounds of aluminum, 103,449 pounds of scrap metal from empty food cans and 48,179 pounds of assorted comingled items.

For more information on Earth Month and the Governor's initiatives for protecting and preserving Illinois' future visit: illinois.gov/EarthMonth. For more information on volunteer opportunities visit: www.Serve.Illinois.gov and www.dnr.illinois.gov/outreach/volunteeropportunities.

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21 Apr 2014

Governor Quinn Announces Investments to Conserve Lake Michigan Shoreline

By Katie Hickey

Visits Volunteer Beach Clean-up to Announce Investments That Will Support Environmental Education and Stewardship Projects 

CHICAGO - In honor of Earth Month, Governor Pat Quinn today visited a volunteer clean-up of Chicago's Oak Street Beach to announce a $1.6 million investment in environmental and education projects along the Lake Michigan shoreline and in the Millennium Reserve-Calumet region. The projects will be funded through the Illinois Coastal Management Program (ICMP), which was formed in 2012 by Governor Quinn to protect Illinois' 63-mile Lake Michigan shoreline. Today's announcement is part of Governor Quinn's agenda to protect our natural resources and ensure a clean and healthy environment for future generations.

"There is no better way to celebrate Earth Month than working to keep Illinois clean and safe for future generations," Governor Quinn said. "These investments will help protect and preserve the Lake Michigan shoreline - one of Illinois' most valuable natural resources."

Governor Quinn today also urged people across Illinois to enjoy Earth Month by getting outdoors and volunteering for beach clean-ups and other activities. Today's announcement was made at a beach clean-up that involved hundreds of volunteers organized by the Alliance for the Great Lakes, which has been planning Illinois beach clean-ups since 1991. For more information on volunteer opportunities visit: Serve.Illinois.gov and dnr.illinois.gov/outreach/VolunteerOpportunities.

"Not only will these projects help protect and restore critical habitat along Lake Michigan, but they will help educate the next generation of conservationists and naturalists that will continue the mission," Marc Miller, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) said.

The Illinois Coastal Management Program, administered by IDNR, is dedicated to protecting, restoring and managing natural resources along our shoreline and contributing to the long-term development of our region. Established in 2012, Illinois' Coastal Management Program joins 29 coastal states and five island territories that have developed Coastal Management programs to collaborate with communities in protecting our coastal regions. The ICMP Coastal Grants are federally funded through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

Last year, in its inaugural round of funding, the program invested more than $700,000 in 12 projects that have already paid dividends for our shoreline. For example, a thousand Chicago Public School students learned why and how to remove invasive buckthorn; Lake County high school students learned ravine conservation techniques; and the voices of 200 students were strengthened at the 17th Annual Chicago River Student Congress where they shared ideas and worked on water quality monitoring experiments.

Descriptions of the 26 Coastal Grant Program projects announced today are below:

 

Education/Outreach Grants

William Tillman Maritime Education Program-Teacher Training - Prologue Inc.; $143,290
The William Tillman Maritime Science Program of Prologue Inc., will increase the number and scope of student-driven, school and community-based coastal environmental projects by providing professional development and technical assistance to teachers and community leaders at six inner city high schools.

SCA Calumet Crew - The Student Conservation Association; $136,426
The Student Conservation Association's Chicago Calumet Program will engage 20 youths from the Calumet Region in hands-on environmental learning and conservation work in the community. Participants will be recruited for this 10-month program from Chicago Public Schools and will focus on individuals traditionally underrepresented in the conservation field.

Calumet is My Back Yard ("CIMBY") - Chicago Public Schools; $134,736
Teachers and students participate in a series of ecological restoration, stewardship and science learning activities at natural areas in the Calumet Region. Funding will support implementation of the expanded CIMBY program during 2014 and 2015 to support 17 high schools, more than 800 students and 50 Chicago Public Schools teachers.

Wild Indigo Nature Explorations Expansion - Audubon Chicago Region; $94,905
This new, joint program of Audubon Chicago Region, Eden Place Nature Center and the Forest Preserves of Cook County undertakes community engagement and stewardship work in communities on Chicago's South Side.  Program staff will lead free monthly nature exploration and stewardship field trips to the forest preserves of the Calumet Region that promote healthy bodies, healthy communities and a healthy planet.

Coastal Campus Signage and Lecture Series - Loyola University Chicago; $50,180
Using signage and a public lecture series at its Lake Shore Campus, the project will communicate to students, staff, neighbors and visitors the value of proximity to Lake Michigan, and the steps Loyola University is taking to make sustainable development a keystone to the creation of a 21st century campus.

Chicago Lakefront Parks - Outreach & Public Education - University of Illinois at Chicago; $48,507
A free "Walking Guide to the History & Features of Burnham Park," and a similar guide for Lincoln Park will be produced. The Burnham Park booklet will be used to facilitate a public field day in the fall of 2014. The grant will also help to install a semi-permanent display in Burnham Park, which will highlight environmental education and conservation.

Pipes and Precipitation: Expanding Water Literacy to the 3rd/6th Grade District Students & Teachers - Evanston/ Skokie CC School District 65; $39,545
The purpose of "Pipes and Precipitation" is to expand a pilot Great Lakes education program in Evanston/Skokie CC School District 65 to include all third and sixth grade teachers and students. The project emphasis is on understanding concepts related to stormwater management.

Lakeside Heritage Walk - Friends of the Forest Preserves; $38,629
The Lakeside Heritage Walk is a series of permanent, public and free educational signs for Park No. 523 and a portion of 87th Street in South Chicago that will feature information on the site's ecology and biodiversity, as well as its industrial past and ongoing redevelopment.

The Next Generation Mighty Acorns Curriculum - Chicago Wilderness Trust; $38,419
The Next Generation Mighty Acorns Curriculum project is a multi-agency effort to create a new and improved program curriculum that is aligned with current learning standards, reflects current trends in pedagogy and assessment, and brings coastal issues of wetland management to the forefront.

Nature Along the Lake Environmental Education Program - Friends of the Parks; $36,300
The Nature Along the Lake program provides lakefront park experiences that are customized to the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) curriculum. The program currently serves more than 800 CPS students every year, and with this funding will triple the number of students served.

Calumet Community Outreach and Recreation Project - Friends of the Forest Preserves; $34,048
Project partners will conduct an outreach project to engage 250 local residents from communities that suffer from environmental justice challenges in nature based recreational activities. Residents will have the opportunity to get out and enjoy the sites, and learn about local ecology, stewardship and environmental justice issues.

Chicago Conservation Corps - Developing Community Awareness of Stormwater Management - Chicago Academy of Sciences; $31,876
Chicago Conservation Corps (C3) recruits, trains, and supports a network of volunteers ("Leaders") who work together in neighborhoods on environmental service projects. These C3 Leaders will lead stormwater management projects in their communities to help residents learn about adaptation and mitigation strategies.

Openlands Eco-Exploration Program - Openlands; $30,474
Classrooms participating in Eco-Explorations visit the Openlands Lakeshore Preserve with an Openlands Educator, exploring the complex coastal ecosystem with ravines, tableland and lakeshore. Additionally, teachers are trained to implement classroom lessons on the topics of erosion, biodiversity, adaptation, habitat restoration and stewardship.

Great Lawns, Great Lakes - Preventing Nonpoint Source Pollution in the Illinois Coastal Zone - Midwest Pesticide Action Center; $26,508
This grant will fund education and outreach to residents, retailers, parks and schools in the Illinois Coastal Zone on sustainable lawn and landscape care practices that prevent nonpoint source pollution by reducing use of pesticides and fertilizers.

Migration, Monarchs, Birds and Me - Faith in Place; $22,000
Faith in Place will continue this innovative and successful program that helps recruit and retain volunteers for habitat restoration on the South Side of Chicago. The project uses personal stories of human migration in order to connect those stories and experiences to the stories of the migration of local fauna, such as songbirds and Monarch butterflies.

View of Nature from the Freedom Trail - Bronzeville Historical Society; $13,030
The Bronzeville Historical Society will guide visitors through the natural areas of the Stephen A. Douglas Tomb State Historic Site Migratory Bird habitat and adjacent Burnham Wildlife Corridor. Both locations are in a designated "Illinois Important Bird Area".

Exploring Water Management from Lake Michigan to Little Village - Little Village Environmental Justice Organization; $10,414
The Little Village Environmental Justice Organization will lead an educational project that teaches high school students the root causes of water pollution in Chicago's Little Village neighborhood. Students will study the history and science of water management and sustainable stormwater practices, and develop projects that offer solutions to water pollution.

Planning Grants

Lakefront Master Planning - Winnetka Park District; $119,000
This comprehensive master planning process for five Winnetka Park District (WPD) sites will identify, evaluate and address issues between the WPD and neighboring communities. This collaborative process will also address environmental and coastal enhancements, and bike and waterway linkage along the lakeshore.

Foss Park Master Plan - Foss Park District; $103,035
Foss Park Beach, in the North Chicago community, has been closed to the public for more than 20 years due to unsafe conditions on the steep, rocky shore. Foss Park Beach is among the only sections of unmanaged shoreline in Illinois. The Foss Park Master Plan will establish a long-term vision for the restoration of the park and guide its development.

Sustainable Plan to Improve Beach Water Quality and Public Access at Montrose Beach - Chicago Park District; $100,000
The Chicago Park District will complete a plan for improving beach water quality, mitigating nonpoint source pollution, and improving public access and habitat at Montrose Beach.

South Suburban Community Green Infrastructure Planning - Delta Institute; $88,184
The Delta Institute will facilitate a community-based green infrastructure planning process in South Suburban communities that will utilize vacant, brownfield properties to reduce neighborhood flooding and create more natural areas in the Illinois Coastal Zone.

South and North Wolf Lake Trail System Connection - Openlands; $77,000
This project will provide engineering design of segments of a pedestrian/bike trail and route leading toward a set of loop trails around parts of Wolf Lake . The result will be the most diverse trail riding experience available in one location in all of Northeast Illinois, creating a significant recreational attraction.

CMAP Local Technical Assistance Sustainable Coastal Planning project - Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning; $75,000
CMAP will enhance the environmental and natural resources aspects of the comprehensive plans for Winthrop Harbor, North Chicago and Zion by focusing on coastal sustainability goals, and by helping these coastal communities plan for the priorities identified in the Illinois Lake Michigan Implementation Plan by Lake County residents.

Shoreline Sediment Management Strategy - Alliance for the Great Lakes; $66,504
The Alliance will develop a comprehensive Shoreline Engagement Plan for how Illinois' North Shore communities and stakeholders can effectively maintain existing coastal infrastructure, preserve the stability and ecological integrity of the overall shoreline, and realize individual benefits through shared management solutions.

Restoring Urban-Industrial Habitats in the Illinois Coastal Zone - Wildlife Habitat Council; $50,004
Wildlife Habitat Council will undertake a collaborative effort to preserve, protect, remediate and enhance the resources of the Illinois coastal area. With a focus on the South Chicago and Calumet Region, WHC will improve hydrologic regimes, provide green infrastructure to industrial sites, and promote the work of habitat restoration and stewardship.

Bull Creek-Lake Michigan Restoration Plan - Lake County Stormwater Management Commission; $25,000
Bull Creek is a major stream channel in the Dead River watershed, a tributary to Lake Michigan in Lake County. The project includes the planning phase elements necessary to restore the stream to desired ecological conditions integral to a sustainable restoration.

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15 Apr 2014

Sign-Up Begins Today for USDA Disaster Assistance Programs Restored by Farm Bill

By USDA Office of Communications
More than 2,000 Farm Service Agency Offices Across the Country Stand Ready to Assist

WASHINGTON, April 15, 2014 - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announced that starting today, eligible farmers and ranchers can sign up for U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) disaster assistance programs restored by passage of the 2014 Farm Bill.

"We implemented these programs in record time and kept our commitment to begin sign-up today," said Agriculture Secretary Vilsack. "To ensure enrollment goes as smoothly as possible, dedicated staff in over 2,000 Farm Service Agency offices across the country are doing everything necessary to help producers that have suffered through two and a half difficult years with no assistance because these programs were awaiting Congressional action."

Depending on the size and type of farm or ranch operation, eligible producers can enroll in one of four programs administered by the Farm Service Agency. The Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP), and the Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP) will provide payments to eligible producers for livestock deaths and grazing losses that have occurred since the expiration of the livestock disaster assistance programs in 2011, and including calendar years 2012, 2013, and 2014. The Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP) provides emergency assistance to eligible producers of livestock, honeybees and farm-raised fish that have suffered losses because of disease, severe weather, blizzards and wildfires.

Enrollment also begins today for the Tree Assistance Program (TAP), which provides financial assistance to qualifying orchardists and nursery tree growers to replant or rehabilitate trees, bushes and vines damaged by natural disasters.

Producers signing up for these programs are encouraged to contact their local FSA office for information on the types of records needed and to schedule an appointment. Taking these steps in advance will help producers ensure their application moves through the process as quickly as possible.

Supporting documents may include livestock birth records, purchase and transportation receipts, photos and ownership records showing the number and type of livestock lost, documents listing the gallons of water transported to livestock during drought, and more. Crop records may include purchase receipts for eligible trees, bushes, or vines, seed and fertilizer purchases, planting and production records, and documentation of labor and equipment used to plant or remove eligible trees, bushes, or vines.

Producers have three to nine months to apply depending on the program and year of the loss. Details are available from any local FSA office.

For more information, producers may review the 2014 Farm Bill Fact Sheet, and the LIP, LFP, ELAP and TAP fact sheets online, or visit any local FSA office or USDA Service Center.

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USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. To file a complaint of discrimination, write: USDA, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, Office of Adjudication, 1400 Independence Ave., SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call (866) 632-9992 (Toll-free Customer Service), (800) 877-8339 (Local or Federal relay), (866) 377-8642 (Relay voice users).

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15 Apr 2014

Million Trees Project Reaches over 725,000 Trees!

By Natalie Linville-Mass

Rock Island, IL/April 2014- With the help of the Quad Cities and surrounding communities, Living Lands & Waters (LL&W) is making this spring one for the record books! The MillionTrees Project (MTP) began back in 2007 with the goal of growing and distributing one million trees to help further their mission to protect, preserve and restore the natural environment of the nation's major rivers and watersheds.  After surpassing the halfway point last year, LL&W is proud to announce that this year the program's cumulative total will tally to a whopping 734,630 trees!

After a busy pre-season of taking tree orders, the 2014 MTP kicked off early this April with a tree wrapping.  Paired with their gracious hosts--the QCCA Expo Center, this year's volunteers truly proved strength really does come in numbers. "We broke several records, wrapping 10,000 more trees than last year, and having 3 times the amount of volunteers as last year. I think its great when the Quad Cities can come together for an amazing cause and do something great for the environment," said MillionTrees Project Coordinator, Ashley Stover.

Three days of hard work resulted in 15,425 Burr Oak, 12,239 Northern Red Oak, 7,200 White Oak and 13,875 Swamp White Oak wrapped for a grand total of 48,739 trees prepped and ready for delivery! LL&W will spend the duration of the project this year not only delivering and planting these trees, but going one step further by branching out with their acorn plantings. They are in route to planting their 871,000th acorn this season!

"There is always such energy in the room and the spirit of cooperation is amazing.  Total strangers working in harmony, from little bitty kids to old ladies, like me!  I'm already looking forward to next year," said volunteer Lee Ann Wille from the Iowa Master Conservationist Program.

Our Complete Volunteer Group List included: the Boys and Girls Club, Rivers Edge Home School Friends and QC Home School Coalition, Christian Care for Homeless Veterans, Christian Care for Homeless Veterans, The ARC of the Quad Cities, John Deere, Rockridge Junior High, Stern Beverage, U.S. Bank, Nahant Marsh, WIU-Quad Cities Campus, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Modern Woodmen Youth Club, Salem Lutheran Church Youth Club-Moline, Faith Assembly Youth Club, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Assumption High School, North Scott High School's Leo Club, William's Junior High School-Davenport, 4H Club, Augustana SAI and Orion Middle School.

Chad Pregracke started Living Lands & Waters in 1998 as a not-for-profit organization dedicated to the beautification and restoration of America's major rivers and to the education of people about environmental issues. From his single boat beginning, LL&W has grown to an internationally known organization with a fleet of barges and workboats.  LL&W engages thousands of volunteers each year in river cleanups, hands-on environmental education workshops, the Great Mississippi River Cleanup, Adopt-a-River-Mile programs and the Million Trees Project.

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14 Apr 2014

CATHOLIC SISTERS RELEASE "EARTH AS OUR HOME" BOOKLET

By Rick Martin

Too often when we hear the word 'house' we only think of a physical building and its rooms. But what if we began to think of Earth as our house - with various rooms - what would we need to do to make this 'house' a true 'home?'  The Catholic Sisters for a Healthy Earth have prepared a reflection booklet on the various rooms of a house, placing each room and its activities into the broader context of our Earth-home. The booklet is available as a free download at www.ClintonFranciscans.com/earth.html.

The word ecology has its roots in the Greek words "oikos" meaning house or household and "logos" meaning to gather, count, recount, say, speak. Ecology is understood as the legend or logic of the dwelling place. In its essence it is the story of where we live.  This story of the house instructs us and informs our actions in managing this household we call Earth.

"We are excited to make this publication available in time for Earth Day on April 22nd," says the group's coordinator, Joy Peterson, PBVM.  "Our intention is to take a new look at how everything we do, no matter where we are, is interconnected and tied to the well-being of all living things."  The booklet includes suggestions of simple actions for families to take in order to live more sustainably and walk more gently on Earth.

Catholic Sisters for a Healthy Earth is made up of representatives from congregations of women religious from the upper Mississippi Valley in eastern Iowa and southwestern Wisconsin including: Congregation of the Humility of Mary, Davenport, IA; School Sisters of Notre Dame, Central Pacific Province, St. Louis, MO; Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters, Sinsinawa, WI; Sisters of Charity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Dubuque, IA; Sisters of St. Francis, Clinton, IA; Sisters of St. Francis, Dubuque, IA and the Sisters of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Dubuque, IA.  The mission of the group states: "Respecting the interdependence of creation, we will promote eco-literacy and influence a just relationship with the environment.
14 Apr 2014

Little League and WeatherBug Launch iPhone and Android App

By Rachel Hunt
Spring means baseball - and the start of severe weather season. That's why Little League Baseball and Softball and WeatherBug launched Little League WeatherBug, a new smartphone weather app providing real-time weather, severe weather alerts, and personalized Spark lightning detection to help boys and girls stay safer while playing outside this season.

Little League WeatherBug is available for download on both Google Play and the iTunes App Store for free - simply search for Little League WeatherBug.
07 Apr 2014

Governor Quinn to Address Annual Tornado and Severe Weather Seminar

By Katie Hickey

Will Join WGN's Tom Skilling and National Weather Service Director to Discuss State Response to Recent Weather Emergencies

BATAVIA - Governor Pat Quinn will be joined by WGN's Chief Meteorologist Tom Skilling and National Weather Service Director Dr. Louis Uccellini at the Annual Fermilab/WGN Tornado and Severe Storms Seminar this weekend. While there, Governor Quinn will discuss the state's response to the high number of severe storms that have impacted Illinois over the past several years.

"Illinois has faced a record number of natural disasters in recent years," Governor Quinn said. "It is critical to ensure our state's emergency personnel and first responders are always equipped to do what is necessary to keep the public safe when it comes to severe weather. I salute Chicago's own Tom Skilling for the important work he does to educate the public on the impacts of climate change and importance of preparedness for severe weather."

The Annual Tornado and Severe Weather Seminar was established to educate Illinois residents of all ages about the dynamics of severe weather. Skilling created the seminar 34 years ago, along with Brian Smith, currently with the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Omaha, Nebraska. Last year, a discussion of climate change with a Nobel Prize winning scientist and other experts was held, and the discussion of the world's changing climate and its impact on severe weather remains a part of the program.

In the last five years, Illinois has been through 11 natural disasters, including a record drought in 2012; deadly tornadoes in 2012 and 2013; historic winter storms earlier this year; and floods, including the spring 2013 flooding in 49 counties that broke all-time records on four major river systems.

The severe winter weather in January 2014 again saw the mobilization of state resources at Governor Quinn's direction - stranded motorists were rescued, roads kept open, warming centers provided and assistance offered to keep homes and businesses heated.

On Nov. 17, 2013 a tornado outbreak across Illinois killed eight people, damaged or destroyed 2,500 homes and severely impacted the towns of Brookport, Gifford, New Minden, Diamond and Washington. The state was struck by 25 confirmed tornadoes in three hours, including two EF-4 twisters, the first ever of that strength during November. Just nine days after the tornadoes caused widespread destruction across the state, Governor Quinn successfully secured federal aid to assist people and businesses in 15 affected counties. Following federal denial of additional urgently-needed disaster assistance, Governor Quinn assembled a multi-agency $45 million state relief package to help Illinois local governments recover from the storms.

Following the catastrophic flash floods in April 2013, Governor Quinn also directed state agencies to assist citizens, businesses and local governments to help recover. The Governor mobilized all available state resources to aid in cleanup including debris removal, repairs, sandbagging, evacuations, supply deliveries and a grace period to file tax returns.

Last year, Governor Quinn was appointed to the President's Task Force on Climate Preparedness and Resilience which will recommend ways to strengthen the way states and the nation respond to natural disasters. The Governor is also currently working with U.S. Senator Dick Durbin and the Congressional delegation to pass legislation to improve the federal formula in the disaster assistance process and help more people rebuild their lives.

Fermilab generously donates its facilities for the annual program, which is expecting to draw nearly 3,000 participants this year. Speakers joining Governor Quinn this year include Dr. Louis Uccellini, Director of the National Weather Service; Dr. Russ Schneider, Director of NOAA's Storm Prediction Center in Norman, Oklahoma; Dr. Don Wuebbles, climate researcher from the University of Illinois; Ed Fenelon, Meteorologist in Charge of the National Weather Service Forecast Office in Romeoville; and Meteorologist Matt Friedlein, who discussed the horrific Washington tornado and the record severe weather outbreak which impacted the state in November.

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07 Apr 2014

SPRING TOURS PROVIDED AT RECYCLING CENTER, LANDFILL

By Brandy Walvaert

DAVENPORT, IA–Ever wondered what happens to your trash and recyclables after they leave the curb? Now you can see firsthand!

Online registration is open for Waste Commission of Scott County's spring tours at www.wastecom.com. Tours are free of charge and will be held April 22 (Earth Day) at the Scott Area Recycling Center, Davenport, and April 26 at the Scott Area Landfill, Buffalo. Space is limited and registration is required.

The Commission provides public tours of its facilities in spring and fall. Can't make it this time? Sign up to receive e-news from the Commission, and you'll be among the first to know when upcoming dates are announced. E-news signup is online at www.wastecom.com. Once you subscribe, you may unsubscribe at any time.

Waste Commission of Scott County is an inter-governmental agency whose mission is to provide environmentally sound and economically feasible solid waste management for Scott County. For more information about the Commission, please call (563) 381-1300 or visit www.wastecom.com.

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