(MI) Traverse City Record-Eagle – The caterpillars tend to appear in waves, but it’s hard to predict when their numbers will be strongest. In years like this one, when the caterpillars are particularly abundant, it’s not surprising to see their telltale silk webs appear in other types of trees or plants.

(MI) The Herald Palladium – The Nuclear Regulatory Commission will hold an open house this week to discuss nuclear power issues and answer questions about the 2008 safety assessment for the Cook Nuclear Power Plant.

(WI) Milwaukee Journal Sentinel – In the first practical application of the landmark Great Lakes Compact, state regulators on Thursday approved the diversion of Lake Michigan water to an area of New Berlin outside of the lake basin.

(IL) Chicago Tribune – A Chicago resident became the first person in Illinois to die of swine flu, a reminder of the virus’ continued circulation throughout the state even as publicity — and fears — about it have waned.

(MI) The Alpena News – As with any business, agricultural producers must be constantly aware of the environment and how their operations have an impact. For the Tolan family, manure constitutes the largest portion of the Sanborn Township dairy operation’s efforts for maintaining environmental compliance.

(NY) The New York Times – The definition of renewable energy seems clear cut: The sun continues to shine, so solar energy is renewable. The wind continues to blow, so wind turbines churn out renewable power.

(MI) The Detroit News – The once bright forecast for Michigan’s solar industry has turned hazy. The credit crunch has dulled demand for solar products with many buyers unable to secure financing to complete their orders. And the sluggish market has stunted the growth of this fledgling renewable energy industry, causing some Michigan solar companies that make equipment for turning sunlight into electricity to trim workers, cut back on production and apply the brakes to aggressive expansions.

(ON) The Toronto Star -  First she gutted it. Then she had the heart pulled out of its furry, flabby carcass. Finally, she swallowed a slice of the mammal’s dripping organ. And when it was all over Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean wiped the blood of a freshly slaughtered seal off her crimson-spattered fingertips.

(ON) The Toronto Star -
Cheap and clean, cycling and transit should be a match made in heaven, although traditionally, transit authorities in the Toronto region haven’t rolled out the welcome mat for bikes. But that’s changing.

(MI) Detroit Free Press – Cyclists, walkers and runners have a new way of entering Kensington Metropark: the Milford Trail, a 4-mile paved path that starts in the village and continues through the township.