Echo

Ethanol fuels debate; How about cars?

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By Hyonhee Shin
Oct. 31, 2009

LANSING, Mich. — Ethanol is promoted as an eco-friendly tool to reduce air pollution because it can be made from common crops such as sugar cane, potato and corn. Is it the key to a renewable energy future? In Michigan, the number of gas stations selling E-85 — a mixture of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline — has risen from two in 2003 to 117 in 2008.  The state has five ethanol plants able to produce nearly 50 million gallons a year.

Echo

Three invasive species spread through Great Lakes region

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By Emily Lawler
Oct. 28, 2009

LANSING– Asian longhorned beetles and sirex woodwasps and hemlock woolly adelgids – Oh my! Those three invasive species spotted in northeastern Ohio could soon ravage Michigan, and that could prove disastrous, horticulture experts warn. “There’s not a wall between the borders,” said Amy Frankmann, executive director of the Michigan Nursery and Landscape Association in Okemos. Michael Philip, pest survey program manager for the state Department of Agriculture (MDA), said that at least one of these species is already here.

Echo

Michigan lawmakers consider shades of green for school environmental program

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By Nick Mordowanec
Oct. 25, 2009

LANSING — Some Michigan schools are at the forefront of making environmental improvements. Under a Senate proposal, schools across the state would have the opportunity to be designated as “green.”

The bill would create three levels: green, emerald and evergreen. To achieve a ranking, schools would need to complete a range of activities, such as operating waste-free lunch programs, teaching about alternative energy and composting food and organic wastes. The number of points earned from enviro-friendly activities would determine a school’s level.

Nearshore

Marina bill helps cash-strapped Michigan agency focus on environmental protection

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By Mehak Bansil
Oct. 25, 2009
LANSING–A bill awaiting Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s signature would change permit requirements for those who already own a dock, pier or other anchoring structure and those looking to build one in an inland lake or stream. Renewals would no longer be necessary to maintain and operate such facilities, but boaters who don’t already have a permit would still need one. If a boater wants to build or add to a structure, the Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) would have to analyze the project to ensure it wouldn’t disrupt natural resources. Martin Jannereth, DEQ’s chief of lakes, streams and shorelands, said eliminating renewals probably won’t harm inland waters.

Echo

Michigan driving schools might be required to teach fuel economy

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By Mehak Bansil
Oct. 18, 2009
LANSING, Mich. – Another bill in the saga of Michigan’s move toward a greener future targets driver’s education. Schools would be required to teach students how to maximize fuel economy with proper driving and maintenance and how to choose fuel-efficient vehicles.Rep. Dan Scripps, D-Leland, said he co-sponsored the bill because of an active interest in energy issues. He said it could help drivers minimize their environmental footprint while saving money on fuel.

Recreation

Michigan recreation areas feel budget pinch

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By Nick Mordowanec
Oct. 17, 2009

LANSING, Mich. — Some Michigan recreation areas are having difficulty staying above water financially. Unlike most state departments the Department of Natural Resources receives most of its money from fees rather than general tax dollars. In 2004, the Legislature eliminated state funding for parks.

Waste

Green glass glut grows worrisome

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By Hyonhee Shin
Oct. 17, 2009
LANSING, Mich. — After a fine dinner with a glass of wine or beer, where do the green bottles go? The answer is troubling for many environmentally conscious consumers. Michigan has a long record of recycling, and glass is one of the most recycled materials, but not green glass.

Echo

Michigan anti-litter proposal would reward tipsters

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By Hyonhee Shin
Great Lakes Echo
Oct. 10, 2009

LANSING – Southeast Michigan lawmakers are pushing for cleaner urban areas by rewarding people who report littering and illegal dumping. Under a bill by Rep. Rashida Tlaib, D-Detroit, tipsters would get 50 percent of any fine paid by violators. Littering is illegal, with a maximum fine of $400 and a maximum 90-day jail sentence. The goal is to stop people from littering, said co-sponsor Bob Constan, D-Dearborn Heights.

Echo

Michigan enlists taxidermists in war on deer disease

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By Joe Vaillancourt

LANSING — A diseased deer found in Kent County last year has propelled the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) to make changes in sanitation and waste management rules for licensed taxidermists. Chronic wasting disease (CWD) is an always-fatal ailment that physically and mentally weaken deer, said Mike Bailey of the department’s Wildlife Division. CWD isn’t known to adversely affect humans or other livestock such as cattle. “The main reason for the taxidermy regulation changes is for CWD surveillance, protection and response,” Bailey said. “We’ve only found one animal with CWD in Michigan,” he said.