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Pennsylvania Creates Emergency System to Safeguard Environment HARRISBURG, Pennsylvania, August 26, 2003 (ENS) - Pennsylvania is establishing a emergency notification system for power plants and water supplies to enhance homeland security and protect Pennsylvania residents from environmental dangers in the event of a disaster.Speaking at the Pennsylvania Municipal Authorities Association’s 61st annual conference in Hershey on Monday, Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Kathleen McGinty announced the new system. “The emAlert Emergency Notification System links DEP electronically with the operators of critical infrastructure facilities throughout Pennsylvania,” McGinty said told hundreds of delegates. “This system ensures that people operating these vital facilities will know what they need to do to protect our citizens and our environment in the event of an emergency.” The emAlert system is connected to six primary types of facilities - nuclear power plants, conventional fuel power plants, public water supplies, sewage treatment plants, high hazard dams and large, above-ground storage tanks. These facilities are located at more than 5,000 sites throughout Pennsylvania. An emAlert Emergency Notification System message will give these operators details on any event that triggers the system, such as an accident or natural disaster, and safety information specific to the current event. “In the event of an accident, natural disaster or other incident that threatens the safe operation of these facilities, each affected operation will receive an electronic notification of the situation,” Secretary McGinty said. “The emAlert system will allow state officials to quickly disseminate information about how the situation is developing, and about how owners and operators of these vital power plants, dams and other structures may be affected.” The emAlert Emergency Notification System maintains emergency contact information that DEP staffers will use to notify affected facilities about emergency situations. All applicable facilities will be contacted within the next several weeks and given the ability to privately access their emergency contact information to ensure it is accurate and complete. Each facility will be permitted to view and update its emergency contact information whenever necessary. “Making sure Pennsylvanians continue to have power and clean water is vital during times of natural disasters or other emergency situations. We also need to do all we can to keep power plants, dams, water supplies and other structures safe to protect the health and safety of our residents and the environment when a serious incident takes place,” McGinty said. For more information about the system, visit: http://www.dep.state.pa.us, DEP Keyword “DEP emAlert.”
Fast Supercomputer to Work on Environmental Sciences RICHLAND, Washington, August 26, 2003 (ENS) - The fastest operational unclassified supercomputer in the United States came to full operating power this week at the Department of Energy’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory in southcentral Washington state.The laboratory’s 11.8 teraflops industry standard HP Integrity system is designed to enable new insights in the environmental and molecular sciences, including chemistry, biology, climate and subsurface chemistry. Based on peak performance, the PNNL machine is the fifth fastest system in the world. The Department of Energy (DOE) laboratory ordered the supercomputer from Hewlett Packard in April 2002. “Computational resources such as the PNNL supercomputer are essential to DOE’s commitment to provide the most innovative solutions to critical energy and environmental problems,” said Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham. “DOE continues to demonstrate its competitiveness in high-performance computing capabilities by investing in new systems and new approaches to scientific inquiry.” The PNNL system is the world’s fastest supercomputer based on the Linux operating system and is the largest machine ever built using Intel’s 64-bit architecture. “With this machine, PNNL is providing a balanced architecture that is designed specifically for environmental, chemical and biological sciences and the priorities of DOE’s Office of Science,” said PNNL Director Len Peters. The PNNL supercomputer is housed in the Molecular Science Computing Facility of the William R. Wiley Environmental Molecular Sciences Laboratory, a DOE scientific user facility located at PNNL. Scientists from around the country can access the supercomputer for research through a competitive proposal process. The new capability will enable scientists to solve scientific problems that are more complex and do so more quickly than other architectures. “HP and PNNL are working together to create next generation technical computing solutions that will support some of the world’s most important scientific research,” said Martin Fink, vice president of Linux, HP Enterprise Servers and Storage. “The world’s fastest Linux supercomputer runs on industry standard HP platforms and the recently unveiled Madison processor, and was created by a joint effort between PNNL and the many hardware, software and services professionals within the HP organization.” Proposals to use the supercomputer can be submitted through a process outlined at: http://www.emsl.pnl.gov/using-emsl/. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory is a Department of Energy Office of Science facility that conducts fundamental research and provides science based solutions to problems of national security, energy and environmental quality. The laboratory employs more than 3,800 scientists, engineers, technicians and support staff, and has an annual budget of nearly $600 million. Battelle, based in Columbus, Ohio, has operated PNNL since its inception in 1965 for the federal government.
Forest Health Surveyed in New Jersey Cities TRENTON, New Jersey, August 26, 2003 (ENS) - The Department of Environmental Protection's (DEP) Forest Service is examining the health of the state's urban forests this summer and fall, the first time such a study has been undertaken in New Jersey."The long term benefits of trees in urban communities are undeniable," said DEP Deputy Commissioner Joanna Samson. "Trees clean our air, they filter our water and they keep summer temperatures down. That is why it is important to study the health of our urban forests, and that is why Governor [James] McGreevey has set a goal of planting 100,000 trees in our neighborhoods." The $200,000 study will focus on 182 plots of urban trees. The survey will analyze basic tree statistics such as height, crown condition, physical damage, as well as impacts from insects and disease. The survey will generate comprehensive data that will enable the DEP and local communities to enhance and improve the management of New Jersey's urban forests. The agency is notifying private landowners whose trees will be surveyed as part of the noninvasive study. Residents are encouraged to allow state foresters on their property to study trees in order to conduct the most accurate sampling of the state's urban forests. The New Jersey Forest Service will complete the surveys in the summer of 2004. The state Forest Service plans to conduct additional studies every five years to evaluate the long term health of urban forests. If successful the U.S. Forest Service may extend the urban assessment program to other states. Funded by the U.S. Forest Service, the DEP's urban forest survey is the first of its kind in New Jersey and the third such survey in the nation. "The U.S. Forest Service selected New Jersey as a model state because of its demonstrated commitment to improving the quality of life in cities and towns through the planting and care of trees and forests," said Kathryn Maloney, the Forest Service's northeastern area director. Studies have shown that trees provide many environmental benefits to urban areas. Their leaves help improve air quality by absorbing polluting gases and trapping particulate matter from the air. Trees help filter and clean water supplies, reduce water runoff, flooding, erosion and storm water management costs. According to a recent EPA study, summer surface temperatures in Newark are on average 10.6 degrees Fahrenheit higher than suburban surface temperatures, an effect known as the "urban heat island." Trees can help lower urban temperatures by six to 19 degrees. Trees reduce noise pollution by absorbing sounds, and they offer protection from winter winds and blowing snow. Trees make towns more attractive to business and tourism, transforming a neighborhood's appearance and increasing home market values, as they bring nature closer to where we live and work.
Blue-Green Algae Blooms Expand in Chesapeake Bay ANNAPOLIS, Maryland, August 26, 2003 (ENS) - Several swimmers this month have reported itching and rashes after contact with waters in Kent County infested with blue-green algae. Tests on the Bush River have confirmed the presence of algae and toxins at levels that may affect those who come in contact the water with or swallow it, Maryland environmental authorities warn.Blue-green algae naturally occur in tidal freshwater portions of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. Affected waters may also appear as if a blue-green to yellow-green paint is floating on the surface of the water. Algal blooms in the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries are monitored by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Department of the Environment. In hot weather, and especially in still water with high levels of nutrients, blue- green algae can grow and accumulate rapidly, causing a bloom. Blue-green algal blooms have been seen this week near the mouths of the Severn, South and Magothy Rivers and at Sandy Point State Park in Anne Arundel County. Algal blooms may periodically use up oxygen, causing fish to suffocate and die. Blooms have already been reported this summer on the Sassafras River in Kent and Cecil Counties and the Bush River in Harford County. The Northeast and Bohemia Rivers have also registered bloom concentrations of the algae during routine water quality monitoring in August. These blooms are dominated by a blue-green algal species known as Microcystis and state officials caution that they should be avoided because they are sometimes known to cause illness in humans and animals. Children may be particularly at risk to illness due to their relatively low body weight. The most common symptoms associated with Microcystis are skin irritation and gastrointestinal problems. The microcystin toxin is a liver toxin; severe effects on the liver and death may occur in pets and livestock that drink the water containing this organism or ingest the collections of algae that sometimes float to the surface and wash up on the shore. Toxin concentrations are affected by many environmental factors. Maryland environmental officials say levels of toxin are presently not predictable and will vary over time and locations. Scientific testing is the only way to detect the presence and level of the toxins. People should take precautions to reduce the risk of illness or discomfort related to blue-green algal blooms. Officials advise that people should not swim or drink the water in areas where blue-green algae bloom is evident. If contact is made with problem water, wash off with fresh water. In some cases, skin irritations may occur after prolonged contact. If irritations persist, see a physician or local health care provider. Keep pets and livestock away from bloom areas. Major blue-green algae blooms were last reported in the upper Bay region in 2000 and on the Potomac River in 1998, and have been reported in these areas since the 1970s. Maryland operates a 24 hour Hotline at 888-584-3110,in order to receive reports from the public regarding algal blooms, fish kills, and sick fish. The public and physicians are also asked to call this number in the event of human illness believed to be associated with algal blooms and fish kills. Fact sheets on Microcystis and information on other algal blooms can be found on the Department of Natural Resources’ website at: http://www.dnr.state.md.us/bay/hab/microcystis2.html and http://www.dnr.state.md.us/bay/hab/index.html. View real-time data on water quality at the Maryland Departments of Natural Resources website at: http://www.eyesonthebay.net
Cables to Be Laid in Gaps Through Florida Coral Reefs TALLAHASSEE, Florida, August 26, 2003 ENS) - Governor Jeb Bush and the Florida Cabinet today unanimously approved a plan that increases protection from telecommunications cables for North America's most extensive living coral reef system. At the same time, the government said, the move ensures South Florida remains an international gateway for worldwide communications and e-commerce.The plan, proposed by the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), encourages telecommunications companies to safeguard sensitive reef systems by using designated gaps in the coral reefs to install and connect cables to information networks in South America and the Caribbean. The laying of cables in the Biscayne Bay Aquatic Preserve and in the coastal waters of Monroe County, home to the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the only barrier reef in the continental United States, is prohibited under the new plan. "Providing North America's sensitive coral reef system with the greatest protection is critical," said DEP Secretary David Struhs. "By using designated reef gaps, this plan protects precious natural resources, reduces regulatory burdens and ensures our state receives high quality communications services. The plan protects the environment and benefits the economy." Previously, requests for laying undersea cables in offshore state waters required approval by the Florida Cabinet. Under the new plan, telecommunication companies that lay fiber optic cables in one of five identified corridors off the coast of Broward and Palm Beach counties will be eligible for an expedited approval process by the Department. Proposals that use alternative undersea routes will still require approval and oversight by the Florida Cabinet. Fiber optic cables, which provide telephone and computer links to Florida homes and businesses, are essential to the state's economy and technology capabilities. Governor Bush and Cabinet members directed the DEP to develop the new guidelines in last December. The rule will go into effect 20 days after filing with the Department of State. "This is a significant milestone for protecting marine life in Southeast Florida," DEP Deputy Secretary Bob Ballard. "This commonsense approach safeguards reefs, while reducing the time and cost of permitting for both the state and businesses. Florida is protecting a natural treasure and streamlining the regulatory process."
Minnesota Tries New Trout Enhancement Plan MINNEAPOLIS, Minnesota, August 26, 2003 (ENS) - The state of Minnesota has developed a new three tiered fisheries plan for streams in the southeastern part of the state that fisheries officials say will put more large trout on anglers' lines. The 12 year plan reflects input from anglers, landowners and others who have attended a series of public meetings in recent months.The plan, prepared by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), aims to improve stream quality, scientific knowledge and trout populations by working within and beyond the banks of the stream, according to Ron Payer, director of the DNR Fisheries Division. "Southeast Minnesota's trout populations have been on an upward trend for many years," Payer said. "Our new strategic plan aims to further improve a high quality fishery through habitat improvement, innovative angling regulations and a commitment from citizens who can to make a difference." "One strategy we are particularly excited about is called the three tier system," Payer said. "Under this proposal, streams or sections of streams would be classified in one of three ways - total catch-and-release, protected slot of 12 to 16 inches, or standard statewide regulation." The DNR's new plan includes 40 strategies. They range from broad private-public partnerships to specific guidelines for the use of hatchery raised trout. A key goal is to meet the needs of as many anglers as possible. The three tier system has the support of Trout Unlimited and the Minnesota Trout Association. It could be implemented in 2005 following public input meetings in 2004. Mark Heywood, DNR fisheries manager at Rochester, said staff will begin implementing the plan in 2004. "Thanks to public input, we have defined what needs to be accomplished between now and 2015," Heywood said. "The next step is to finish an operational plan - who needs to do what - to convert this collective vision into action." "The quality of our streams always will be a reflection of the land use around them," Heywood said. "Realistically, the success of our plan will be linked to the level of cooperation and enthusiasm put forward by citizens, landowners, anglers and governmental entities empowered with conservation responsibilities." The operational plan will be released this autumn, Heywood said. Meanwhile, the agency will continue to solicit opinions and suggestions from the public. Copies of the plan, called the "Strategic Plan for Coldwater Resources Management in Southeast Minnesota," are available on the DNR website at: http://www.dnr.state.mn.us.
Las Vegas Companies Fined for Dust Violations LAS VEGAS, Nevada, August 26, 2003 (ENS) - The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced today that it has fined Del Webb Communities in Henderson and Western States Contracting in Las Vegas $50,000 and $40,000 respectively and ordered both to ensure their employees complete local dust control classes for Clean Air Act violations of county dust rules.Both companies were issued more than 10 notice of violation orders each from the Clark County Department of Air Quality Management. The county asked the EPA to look into the repeated violations and take federal action to ensure deterrence and compliance with county air regulations. "All businesses must adhere to air regulations to combat the serious dust pollution problem that can plagues Las Vegas area air," said Jack Broadbent, the EPA's Air Division Director for the Pacific Southwest Region. "Dust control solutions are out there - companies just need to inform their people and implement them." As part of this action the companies are required to have all employees go through the Clark County Department of Air Quality Management dust control class to learn preventative measures that can be applied in the field. Del Webb Communities and Western States Contracting violated standards from 1996 to 2000 while working land development projects that were hundreds of acres in size. The Del Webb violations occurred while working the Anthon Development in Henderson. Western States also violated while working on the Anthem Development as a contractor for Del Webb, but was also cited for violations on multiple projects throughout the greater Las Vegas area. The companies are no longer violating county dust rules and are in the process of getting personnel trained in the county's dust prevention program. Particulate matter or dust pollution affects the respiratory system and can cause damage to lung tissue and premature death. The elderly, children, and people with chronic lung disease, influenza, or asthma are especially sensitive to high levels of particulate matter. |
