November 2008

There is no doubt that the results of Tuesday’s historic election will bring positive change for New England’s environment. CLF looks forward to partnering with the region’s congressional delegation, the new administration and state leaders to pursue real, innovative solutions -- from climate change, to a healthier ocean, improved public transit and an end to stormwater  pollution -- that will build a healthier environment and more livable communities for future generations. As always we rely on your support to make to make this vision a reality!

Northeast states move to force reduction of
mercury pollution from midwest power plants

In a move combating harmful mercury pollution in rivers, lakes and streams, seven Northeast states have asked the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to force the clean up of smokestack emissions from Midwest power plants.

Under a 319(g) legal petition filed last week by the six New England states and New York, the EPA must initiate a management conference of polluting Midwest states to develop a cleanup plan that will take specific steps to reduce mercury pollution flowing into the Northeast region.

"Mercury pollution from smokestacks in the Midwest is contaminating the Northeast's fish and waterways -- directly threatening public health and the environment," said Chris Kilian, Director of the Clean Water and Healthy Forests Program at the Conservation Law Foundation, a leading New England environmental group working to implement stricter mercury cleanup measures. "This petition is a critical next step under the Clean Water Act that will force Midwest coal power plants to reduce their dangerous emissions of mercury."

Read the CLF press release

Read the Hartford Courant story



Read the latest edition of Conservation Matters, CLF's quarterly journal!
In this issue, CLF Senior Attorney Peter Shelley and others address the controversy over offshore drilling, in the "Drilling Debate."

>> Click here to read the article
>> Watch Peter Shelley on WBZTV
>> Click here to receive your copy each quarter!


CLF appeals St. Albans’s Sewage Permit

A weak water pollution permit for the St. Albans City sewage treatment plant will allow increases in harmful nutrient pollution into St. Albans Bay contends an appeal filed by CLF. The permit fails to comply with the Clean Water Act and will lead to direct pollution outflow into one of Lake Champlain’s most imperiled bays.

“After decades of failed pollution control efforts, St. Albans Bay has some of the worst water quality in Vermont,” said Mike Rapacz, Lake Champlain Lakekeeper and Conservation Law Foundation staff scientist. “This unwise and unlawful permit represents a failure on the part of Vermont ANR to begin the Bay’s restoration through stricter pollution controls.”

Read the CLF press release

Read the St. Albans Messenger article



See below for events in your area:

MA residents!

Future Mobility of the Commonwealth
Financing Transportation in Turbulent Times
A panel discussion examining transportation finance in Massachusetts

111 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA
November 12, 2008

RSV to movemass@usa.net, or 617.527.4337

RI residents! 
Events featuring CLF’s RI State Director Cynthia Giles:

Rhode Island Interfaith Power & Light presents:
“Faith Lights Our Way”
The SECOND ANNUAL interfaith conference on developing a religious community response to Climate Change in Rhode Island.
 
La Salle Academy
612 Academy Avenue
Providence, RI
Thursday January 8, 2009, 5 pm - 9:30 pm
A conference for clergy, lay leaders, parents, educators, business people, students and other interested persons.
 
Exhibits Open/Registration 5:00 pm 7:00 pm, Keynote Speaker 7:00 pm

FLOW: The World Water Crisis
Register for this free program and hear from a panel of Rhode Island experts, including CLF Rhode Island Advocacy Center Director Cynthia Giles, how the coming water crisis will affect you and all of Rhode Island.

Bryant University
1150 Douglas Pike
Janikies Auditorium
Smithfield, RI 02917

http://audubonflow.eventbrite.com/

"Water is the sleeping giant issue of the 21st Century and we all need to wake up about it.  FLOW opens our eyes about the greatest threat of our time - the global water crisis. It is a compelling and passionate film. Its engaging narrative will grip the viewer."
- Robert Redford

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News from the around the states!

New England:
One of America's most productive fishing grounds is under siege

MA: Rail plan a chance to get back on track

RI: Wind turbine workshop

ME: Hydro project in the works

NH: Porous pavement gains ground

>> Help make New England a leader in climate change solutions! (and save a bundle in the process!)

What role can New England play in confronting the growing climate change crisis? CLF’s climate change call to action for New England defines five steps our region must take in five years to confront the climate threat and we need your help to make our vision a reality!

When you sign the pledge in support of our five steps, you'll send a strong message to the region’s decision-makers, urging them to make this down payment on New England’s energy future.

You’ll also receive a coupon for CLF’s online store. We’ve partnered with Energy Federation Incorporated to encourage our supporters to purchase efficient technologies for the home. You’ll receive 15 percent off your purchase on a host of exciting home products that will help the environment and your savings.

>> Click here to sign the pledge and save 15 percent on energy efficient home products!