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August 14, 2013

Houston Environmental News Update August 20, 2013

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Houston Environmental News Update August 20, 2013

CEC NOTES

Save the Dates: Candidate Forum and Civic Engagement Workshop

COALITION NOTES

  1. Is it the End for Deer Park Prairie?
  2. RDA Civic Forums: Environmental Challenges Facing the
    Houston Region Over the Next 25 Years
  3. Pledge Your Commute Solution
  4. Bayou Land Conservancy Semiannual Cruise Down the Creek
  5. Buffalo Bayou Park – Discovery of the “Cistern”
  6. Oiled Wildlife Response Training Workshop
  7. KPC Labor Day Butterfly Count
  8. The Wetlands Center and Baytown Nature Center Volunteer Orientation
  9. USGBC Construction & Demolition UnConference
  10. Urban Harvest Class: Rainwater Harvesting and Cisterns
  11. Texas Gulf Coast Gardener Classes Return
  12. Emission Reduction Grants
  13. Support CEC Member Groups at OKRA Charity Saloon
  14. Explore in a Kayak with Artist Boat
  15. Applications sought for Annual Parks Awards
  16. Join Galveston Bay Foundation for Redfish Raft-Up
  17. Why the Memorial Park Demonstration Project for Buffalo Bayou Is Not the Answer
  18. Regional Plan for Sustainable Development Update
  19. Save the Date: Bayou Preservation Association’s 10th Annual Symposium
  20. Save the Date: Shell Center for Sustainability Town Hall Meeting

COMMUNITY NOTES

  1. Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission Annual Public Hearing
  2. Webinar: Environmental Education in Action
  3. Citizens’ Climate Lobby
  4. TCEQ Public Case Hearing for BRA water use permit
  5. Workshop on the Ecological Importance of Streamside Areas
  6. Legislative Update on the Texas Water Plan
  7. Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council to Vote on Clean-up Plan
  8. Hydrological Restoration Projects Wanted
  9. Don’t Mess with Texas Water
  10. TCEQ Commissioners Meeting. August 21, 2013.
  11. Urban Photography Contest
  12. 2013 National Reuse Contest
  13. Urban Photography Contest
  14. TCEQ’s Texas Environmental Excellence Awards

NEWS HEADLINES

  1. Why A Conservation Group Needs Millions In Less Than A Week To Preserve Prairie (Florian Martin – KUHF News, 8/13/2013)
  2. Museum-area park to be restored (Sarah Tucker – The Examiner, 8/11/2013
  3. Reasons Unclear For Stark Drop In Number Of Endangered Sea Turtle Nests (Florian Martin – KUHF News, 8/12/2013)

GREEN JOBS

  1. NEW! Texas Campaign for the Environment seeks Campaign Staff
  2. Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Park Wide Supervisor
  3. The Woods Project seeks Club Program Instructors
  4. Air Alliance Houston seeks Teaching Artist
  5. National Wildlife Federation seeks Regional Development Manager (Austin)
  6. Texas Living Waters seeks Attorney (Austin)
  7. Harris County Flood Control District seeks Field Technician
  8. Recipe for Success seeks Seed-to-Plate Nutrition Educator
  9. H-GAC seeks Senior Air Quality Planner
  10. H-GAC seeks Air Quality Coordinator

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

UPCOMING EVENTS

SUBSCRIBE/UNSUBSCRIBE INSTRUCTIONS

CEC NOTES

Save the Dates: Candidate Forum and Civic Engagement Workshop. CEC is excited to offer two events this fall relating to civic engagement. Both of these events harken back to CEC’s long history of facilitating civic engagement. The events also address many of the opportunities identified in “The Texas Civic Health Index,” recently published by the Annette Strauss Institute for Civic Life at the University of Texas, and the National Conference on Citizenship (chartered by Congress).

  1. Candidate Forum. The evening of Tuesday, October 1, 2013, CEC, with the League of Women Voters of the Houston Area and other partners, will be hosting a forum for cadidates for City of Houston offices. (Did you know that Texas ranks 51st for voter turnout in the US?)
  2. “I recycled. I voted. What next?” A Collaborative Primer on Civic Engagement for Houston’s Environmental Community. On Tuesday, November 19, 2013, CEC will host a follow-up meeting to learn about other forms of civic engagement. (Did you know that Texas residents 42nd for volunteering?) Dr. Regina G. Lawrence, director of theAnnette Strauss Institute, is tentatively scheduled to provide an overview of the Health Index and how it applies to the Houston region’s environmental community.

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COALITION NOTES

  1. Is it the End for Deer Park Prairie? Bayou Land Conservancy has been working on raising funds to purchase the Deer Park Prairie, a 50-acre home to meadowlarks, pocket gophers, and more than 300 species of unique plants – tucked between subdivisions and just 3 miles south from the Deer Park refineries. BLC received bad news this week: the corporate entity most likely to have supported this biodiversity initiative is unable to meet the new deadline for the required funds, which has now been moved up to August 20, 2013. Local partners including Texas Native Prairie Association, Katy Prairie Conservancy, Native Plant Society, and Houston Audubon are making huge efforts to save the Deer Park Prairie. And finally, while small donations are greatly appreciated, because of this incredibly short-fuse final deadline, Bayou Land Conservancy is seeking large donations these next few days. If YOU could be a large donor, know someone who COULD be a large donor, please call right away at 281-576-1634 or email info@bayouland.org. Please watch a 3-minute video of the unique nature of this prairie and the educational amenity it could be for not just Houstonians but all Texans. http://www.bayoulandconservancy.org/#!news-and-events/cekb. As of August 17, 2013, there was only $1.59 million to go! Terry Hershey donated $2 million dollars of her personal funds, and the Hamman Foundation donated $200,000. These  generous gifts are helping Bayou Land Conservancy get closer to the goal. The deadline is today! You can now keep up with the fundraiser by visiting http://www.bayoulandconservancy.org/.
  2. RDA Civic Forums: Environmental Challenges Facing the Houston Region Over the Next 25 Years. These two forums, presented by the Rice Design  Alliance, will feature nationally known scientists, researchers, and public policy experts who will discuss air, water, land, and health issues. 1) Challenges of Climate change on August 21, 2013. 2) Challenges of competing land uses, environmental justice, and public health on August 28, 2013. Both forums will be held at 6:30 in the Brown Audtorium at the Museum of Fine Arts, Houston. Moderated by Thomas Colbert, Associate Professor, Gerald D. Hines College of Architecture, University of Houston, and CEC Board Member Extraordinaire. More information available at http://ricedesignalliance.org/category/civic-forums.
  3. Pledge Your Commute Solution! As part of Commute Solutions Month in August, the Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) is hosting a Mobile Pledge Site for attendees to pledge their commute solution and spin the “prize wheel.” Participants will pledge to try a commute alternative in August, such as biking, taking the bus or train, walking, teleworking or vanpooling or car carpooling, to help promote clean air initiatives and transportation alternatives. Pledgers will have the opportunity to spin the prize wheel for local eatery coupons and gift certificates, H-GAC t-shirts, and other prizes. Come out to pledge on August 23, 2013, 11:30am-1pm, at Market Square. Visit www.MySolutionIs.com for more information about Commute Solutions Month.
  4. Bayou Land Conservancy Semiannual Cruise Down the Creek. It’s almost time for Bayou Land Conservancy’s Semiannual Cruise Down the Creek! Reserve your boat today! The tour will be held on August 24, 2013 from 4:30-8pm at Jones Nature Center. Spaces are filling up fast, so reserve your canoe or kayak today for the semiannual cruise down the creek. This event is free for all Bayou Land  Conservancy members. A $50 donation gets you a membership for you and a family member. http://cechouston.org/
  5. Buffalo Bayou Park – Discovery of the “Cistern.” Join BBP and host Architecture Center Houston for a presentation with Guy Hagstette, BBP consultant and project manager for Buffalo Bayou Park – Shepherd to Sabine and Douglas Smith, Vice President of SmartGeoMetrics to discuss what was found below the future site of The Water Works Sky Lawn along Buffalo Bayou and Sabine Street. The “Cistern,” as it has been dubbed, was the City of Houston’s first underground drinking-water reservoir. The event will be held on August 29, 2013 at AIA Houston (315 Capitol St, Suite 120). A reception will be held at 6pm, and the presentation will begin at 6:30pm. Free. http://cechouston.org/
  6. Oiled Wildlife Response Training Workshop. The Wildlife Center of Texas will be conducting an oiled wildlife response training workshop on Friday, August 30, 2013 from 9am-4pm sponsored by the Texas General Land Office Oil Spill Prevention and Response Division. The workshop takes place at the Gladys Porter Zoo in Brownsville, Texas and will certify and train personnel that are interested in assisting The Wildlife Center of Texas Oiled Wildlife Response Team during a spill. Lunch will be provided courtesy of CITGO Petroleum Corporation. Certification and training are required for anyone who may participate in any role during an oiled wildlife response. The workshop will cover topics such as the effects of oil on wildlife, initial intake and exam of oiled wildlife, an introduction to OSHA training, wildlife rehabilitation’s role in the Incident Command System and an actual hands on cleaning of oiled feathers in which participants will practice by washing an unoiled white duck. There is no cost for the workshop but space is limited. Please register via email at WildlifeResponse@WildlifeCenterofTexas.org or by phone at 713-861-9453 x 170. http://cechouston.org/
  7. KPC Labor Day Butterfly Count. Love butterflies and science? Join members of the Butterfly Enthusiasts of Southeast Texas in their effort to document as many species of butterflies as possible on the Katy Prairie. Come out and learn about butterflies while you help gather important information on the types and numbers of butterflies on the prairie. The count will be held on September 2, 2013 at 9am at Paul Rushing Park. $3 per participant 12 and older (12 and under are free). Come prepared wearing pants, long sleeves, a hat, and comfortable closed-toe shoes. http://cechouston.org/
  8. The Wetlands Center and Baytown Nature Center Volunteer Orientation. The Wetlands Center and Baytown Nature Center are looking for you! Join a fantastic volunteer team. The Volunteer Orientation & Training will be held on September 4, 2013, 8:30am-3:30pm at The Eddie V. Gray Wetlands Education & Recreation Center. Teach classes, assist teachers, and represent the Wetlands Center/Baytown Nature Center at outreach events. Get involved with shoreline cleanup, trail maintenance, and garden maintenance. For reservations or more information, call 281-420-7128 or email maryalice.trumble@baytown.org.
  9. USGBC Construction & Demolition UnConference. The USGBC-Texas Gulf Coast Recycling Committee is preparing for a series of UnConferences designed to increase diversion rates in Houston. These UnConferences will be highly interactive, designed to bring together those who need Recycling help and those who can provide it. If you’re wanting to recycle more but have challenges that you’d like help in overcoming, these UnConferences are for you! Email recycling@usgbctexasgulfcoast.org if you have any questions! The next UnConference will be held on September 4, 2013. http://usgbctexasgulfcoast.org/
  10. Urban Harvest Class: Rainwater Harvesting and Cisterns. Come learn about very low-cost methods of absorbing water on your property, as well as more expensive methods such as rainwater cisterns. This class will be held on September 7, 2013, from 9-11:15am, at Westbury Community Garden. The cost is $24 Urban Harvest members and $36 non-members. For more info: 713-880-5540 or http://www.urbanharvest.org/.
  11. Texas Gulf Coast Gardener Classes Return. The Mercer Arboretum & Botanic Gardens is offering the Texas Gulf Coast Gardener classes this fall! Registration is open August 1 – September 6, 2013. TGCG will give participants the knowledge and skills needed to start, develop and maintain their own gardens through a variety of gardening and horticulture topics specifically designed for the pleasures and challenges of the Texas Gulf Coast climate. The 12-week curriculum includes exciting lessons and lectures presented by Mercer staff and horticulture/botany experts from the greater-Houston area, plus hands-on learning activities. For more information, visit themercersociety.org.
  12. Emission Reduction Grants. H-GAC has $3 million available in Regional Texas Emission Reduction Plan (TERP). This program allows local governments from counties in the eight hour ozone nonattainment region (Brazoria, Chambers, Fort Bend, Galveston, Harris, Liberty, Montgomery, and Waller) to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions by replacing qualifying heavy duty diesel vehicles or equipment. Applications from local government entities, such as counties, cities, school districts, ports, public transit providers, etc., will be evaluated using state guidelines. Please submit your applications as soon as possible to increase your chances of funding. For further information please contact Ben Finley at 713-993-4556 or visit H-GAC’s online Fleet Management information website to download an application. Grant are also available for drayage vehicles and school buses.
  13. Support CEC Member Groups at OKRA Charity Saloon. Bayou Preservation Association and Houston Habitat for Humanity–both CEC member groups–are amoung four charities chosen by OKRA Charity Saloon for the month of August. 100% of the bar’s proceeds are donated to a different Houston-based organization or social cause each month. Bar patrons help determine the recipient of the award. Learn more at http://friedokra.org/charity-bar.html.
  14. Explore in a Kayak with Artist Boat. Artist Boat is establishing a Coastal Heritage Preserve on Galveston Island and is looking for people who want to explore by kayak. Public trips are available for $10 per person–an incredible value. For a schedule of events and to register for a trip, check out the website at www.artistboat.org.
  15. Applications sought for Annual Parks Awards. H-GAC’s The 2013 Parks and Natural Areas Awards application is now available online. This awards program seeks to recognize best practices in parks planning, programming, and policy found in our region. The submissions are due Friday, August 30, 2013, at noon. Please see the application for details. For more information, contact Kelly Porter at  713-993-4529.
  16. Join Galveston Bay Foundation for Redfish Raft-Up! Redfish Raft-Up will be held Sunday, September 1, 2013. Now in it’s 9th year, the Redfish Raft-Up cruise has a huge following of fans that come to spend the day partying on Galveston Bay and enjoying the music of Kelly McGuire. The Star Gazer yacht will cruise 8 miles to Redfish Island where it will drop anchor surrounded by hundreds of boats of all shapes and sizes. Proceeds from Redfish Raft-Up are used to bring awareness to Galveston Bay and to help fund GBF program projects, including our wetlands restoration projects and Boater Waste Education Program.
  17. Why the Memorial Park Demonstration Project for Buffalo Bayou Is Not the Answer. September 11, 2013, at the Houston Arboretum. Refreshments at 6:45 PM, Program at 7:15 PM. Hosted by the Endangered Species Media Project and Houston Regional Group Sierra Club. The Harris County Flood Control District (HCFCD), the River Oaks Country Club, and the City of Houston propose to jointly fund a $6 million project along Buffalo Bayou for 1.5 miles from the South Picnic Loop through the Hogg Bird Sanctuary. Hear concerns about hazards that may be posed to the environment by this project. Learn more at http://houston.sierraclub.org.
  18. Regional Plan for Sustainable Development Update. Check out OurRegion.org for exciting new additions, including six completed local implementation case studies that demonstrate ways that the goals of Our Region 2040 can be applied to issues at the local level and in a variety of geographic contexts. Case studies include Bay City, Brazoria County, Cypress Creek Greenway, Galveston, Houston, and Huntsville.  Also check out the County Profiles for each of the 13-counties in the region. Each profile contains baseline information about housing, the economy, education, healthy communities, the environment, and transportation. Stay tuned this fall when the draft Our Region 2040 will be released for public comment.
  19. Save the Date: Bayou Preservation Association’s 10th Annual Symposium. “A Decade of Significant Change” Thursday, October 3, 2013 from 7:30 am – 4:00 pm at United Way of Greater Houston. For more details and to register visit http://www.bayoupreservation.org/symposium
  20. Save the Date: Shell Center for Sustainability Town Hall Meeting. October 8 & 9, 2013. More information on the schedule, co-hosts, and participants will be available soon at http://shellcenter.rice.edu.

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COMMUNITY NOTES

  1. Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission Annual Public Hearing. August
    21, 2013 2:00 p.m. Invitation from TPWD Executive Director Carter
    Smith: On behalf of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), I
    would like to extend an invitation for you to attend the Annual Public
    Hearing of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission. The Commission
    holds this meeting each year to receive input from our partners,
    stakeholders and constituents concerning any issues relating to TPWD
    policies, goals, programs, and responsibilities. The meeting details
    are listed below: • Time: 2:00 p.m. • Date: Wednesday, August 21, 2013
    • Place: Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Commission Hearing Room
    4200 Smith School Road Austin, TX 78744 • Directions and map • For
    Info: TPWD Executive Office, carole.hemby@tpwd.texas.gov, 512-389-4804
    or 512-389-4802
  2. Webinar: Environmental Education in Action. EPA’s Office of Environmental Education hosts webinars for the EE community as part of an initiative called Environmental Education in Action (EE in Action). The next webinar is: Exploring Environmental Mentoring on Wednesday, August 21, 2013 from 3-4:15pm Central Time. Mentoring relationships can have many positive benefits to both mentor and mentee. Join this conversation about how mentoring may enhance your environmental education work. In this webinar, participants will hear about the best practices and challenges from the EnvironMentors program, as well as tips for those interested in offering mentoring at their school, organization or institution. Register for the webinar at: https://www1.gotomeeting.com/.
  3. Citizens’ Climate Lobby. Join the Citizens Climate Lobby for a workshop to learn how to lobby your Member of Congress and build political will in your communities to act on climate change. Topics Covered: Understanding CCL’s revenue-neutral carbon tax proposal, communicating effectively, engaging all parties, getting published in local media, practicing “Laser Talks,” practicing meetings with members of congress. This event is free. For more information, visit the CCL event’s goolge page.
  4. TCEQ Public Case Hearing for BRA water use permit. The Brazos River Authority has applied for a permit, designated its “System Operation Permit”, to 1) include a Water Management Plan; 2) include accounting plans; 3) authorize an appropriation of state water for multiple use purposes; 4) authorize additional water under a term permit; 5) authorize an appropriation of return flows; 6) authorize an exempt interbasin transfer of the water requested; 7) authorize operational flexibility; 8) authorize use of the bed and banks of the Brazos River, its tributaries, and BRA’s reservoirs for the storage, conveyance and subsequent diversion of state water appropriated pursuant to this application and from other sources. A public case hearing is scheduled the morning of August 26, 2013. For more information, please visit the TCEQ’s public hearings webpage.
  5. Workshop on the Ecological Importance of Streamside Areas.
    Texans love our many miles of beautiful streams. But how well do we
    really understand the inner workings of creeks and rivers? This
    workshop will help you to appreciate these waterways in a new and
    different way. The main presenter, Steve Nelle, has 37 years of direct
    experience working with Texas landowners and private lands conservation
    as a Range Conservationist and Wildlife Biologist, and he has led
    around 50 workshops of this kind. The workshop will be held from
    noon-4pm on August 27, 2013, at the Brackenridge Park Hafernick Center
    in Edna, TX. There is no cost for the workshop and BBQ lunch, but
    please RSVP to Sylvia Balentine at the Lavaca-Navidad River Authority
    either via e-mail sbalentine@LNRA.org or telephone (361) 782-5229. More
    at http://cechouston.org/.
  6. Legislative Update on the Texas Water Plan. Come hear Texas State Senator Glenn Hegar provide a legislative update on implementation of the Texas Water Plan at Houston Wilderness’ next Collaborative Access Event. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to hear how the Texas Water Plan can benefit the greater Houston region and its 10 ecoregions. The presentation will be on August 27, 2013, 9:30-11:30am, at the ConocoPhillips Conference Room. If you have not done so, please RSVP at holly@houstonwilderness.org. http://cechouston.org/
  7. Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council to Vote on Clean-up Plan. August 28 – 1:00 Hyatt Regency Hotel – 601 Loyola Ave, New Orleans, LA. The Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council will meet to vote on the Initial Comprehensive Plan: Restoring the Gulf Coast’s Ecosystem and Economy (Plan). The public is invited to attend. U.S. Secretary of Commerce, and chair of the Council, Penny Pritzker, will preside over the meeting. Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal will be in attendance as a Council member and host of the meeting. Council representatives from the other Gulf States and participating federal agencies will be in attendance. Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Commissioner Toby Baker is Governor Rick Perry’s designee to the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council, and will represent the state at the meeting. Meeting materials, including agenda, the Plan, the Response to Public Comments, and a Programmatic Environmental Assessment, will be available beginning Aug. 21, 2013 on the Council’s website: http://www.restorethegulf.gov/.
  8. Hydrological Restoration Projects Wanted.
    Texas Sea Grant in partnership with NOAA and other Gulf-wide Sea Grant programs are working to build an inventory of Hydrological Restoration Projects.  Potential projects need to fit the following definition, “To remove or modify anthropogenic barriers to restore historic tidal estuarine and freshwater exchange to benefit coastal and marine fisheries habitat.”  Projects can have a budget up to 5 million dollars but smaller budgets may have a better chance at receiving funding.  Also, the projects should restore 5 acres or more and have a lifespan of at least 20 years.  Once projects are identified, they are placed in a database where they can be found by different funding agencies. Contact Karla Dunlap karla.dunlap@tamu.edu (814) 4450-5732 or Karen Bishop Karen.bishop@tamu.edu (210) 557-6795 with potential projects or questions. For more information http://masgc.org/gulfhydrorestoration/index.htm
  9. Don’t Mess with Texas Water. Through a partnership between the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) and Texas Department of Transportation, the Don’t Mess with Texas Water (DMWTW) program seeks to help prevent illegal dumping by placing road signs along major highway water crossings. The signs have a toll-free number that citizens can call to report illegal dumping. TCEQ forwards these calls to the appropriate local enforcement agency that handles complaints of illegal dumping for a participating area. Signs are already up in Harlingen, TX and the TCEQ is seeking more local governments to participate in the program. If you would like to know more information about the program or about participating, please contact Devon Ryan, the DMWTW Coordinator.
  10. TCEQ Commissioners Meeting. August 21, 2013. In addition to routine items, the agenda covers the following:
    • Consideration of the James Barr Facility State Superfund Site, Pearland, Brazoria County
    • Consideration and Approval of the Agency’s FY 2014 Recommended Operating Budget
    • Consideration for approval to publish and solicit public comment on a draft Implementation Plan for Two Total Maximum Daily Loads for Dissolved Oxygen and One Total Maximum Daily Load for Bacteria in the Upper Oyster Creek Watershed, of the Brazos River Basin, in Fort Bend County
    • Consideration for approval to publish and solicit public comment on a draft Implementation Plan for Eight Total Maximum Daily Loads for Indicator Bacteria in the Dickinson Bayou Watershed and Three Tidal Tributaries, in Galveston County
    • Consideration of rulemaking for structures that are connected to a public water system (PWS) and have a rainwater harvesting system (RWHS). The adopted rulemaking would allow a RWHS that is connected to a PWS to be used for indoor potable purposes, and establish minimum requirements for a PWS that allows the connection of a RWHS used for indoor potable purposes to its distribution system.
    • Consideration for publication of, and hearing on, proposed amended Sections 307.2 – 307.4, 307.6 – 307.10 of 30 TAC Chapter 307, Texas Surface Water Quality Standards. The proposed rulemaking would provide a periodic public review and revision of the State’s surface water quality standards, as provided for in Section 26.023 of the Texas Water Code, and as required by Section 303(c) of the Federal Clean Water Act

    Read more on the TCEQ agenda.

  11. Urban Photography Contest. CBRE is accepting submissions for its 2013 Urban Photographer of the Year competition “Cities at Work.” Deadline is Aug. 31. For  more information, visit http://ijnet.org/ and http://www.cbrephotographer.com/.
  12. 2013 National Reuse Contest. The City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department Reuse Warehouse is coordinating Houston’s participation in the 2013 National Reuse Contest, sponsored by The ReUse People (TRP). Projects built
    primarily of used building materials and completed within the past year are eligible for submission. Houston entries received by the Saturday, August 31, deadline will be judged by Mayor Annise Parker, Jim “Mattress Mack” McIngvale and Dan Phillips of the Phoenix Commotion. The three winners, announced Monday, September 30, will automatically be entered in the national contest. Individuals in the greater  Houston area interested in competing should email a photo of their project to
    Reuse Warehouse Manager Keith Koski. A complete list of rules, participating stores and photos of previous contest winners, is available online.
  13. Urban Photography Contest. CBRE is accepting submissions for its 2013 Urban Photographer of the Year competition “Cities at Work.” Deadline is Aug. 31. For more information, visit http://ijnet.org/ and http://www.cbrephotographer.com/.
  14. TCEQ’s Texas Environmental Excellence Awards. Due October 4, 2013. To nominate an exemplary environmental effort for the 2014 awards, apply online at www.TEEA.org.
  15. TV: Texas Parks & Wildlife. Broadcast on KUHT Channel 8 at 3:00 PM each Saturday and on cable channels in Baytown, Deer Park, Seabrook, and on HCC. More info on the TPWD website (* indicates a segment about the Houston area).
    • The Unknown Army – The Buffalo Soldiers
    • Sauer-Beckman Farm
    • Running of the Bass
    • Wyler Aerial Tramway State Park
  16. Air Quality Forecast. http://www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/monops/forecast_today.html.Houston Clean Air Network and Realtime Ozone Mapping: http://houstoncleanairnetwork.com.
    • August 20, 2013: Yellow–Moderate–Ozone. Winds may be light enough and incoming background levels high enough for ozone to reach “Moderate” or possibly higher on the north and northwest side of the Houston area.
    • August 21, 2013: Yellow–Moderate–Ozone. African dust should spread into Central Texas and should continue over most of South and Southeast Texas and could raise the daily PM2.5 AQI to “Moderate” levels in the affected areas.
    • August 22, 2013: Green–Good. Moderate winds and lower incoming background levels should help to keep air quality in the “Good” range.

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ECONOTES Featured News
Articles–For dozens of additional headlines, visit the CEC website.
(You can let us know about articles, too. E-mail news@cechouston.org).

  1. Why A Conservation Group Needs Millions In Less Than A Week To Preserve Prairie (Florian Martin – KUHF News, 8/13/2013)Deer Park may be known to most as housing dozens of oil refineries. What few know is that it also houses the “platinum standard of prairies.” This may be the most diverse 50-acre patch of prairie left in the greater Houston area. Conservationists are trying to keep Deer Park from being developed into a residential subdivision. They are trying to buy the land from the developer but time is running out.
    http://app1.kuhf.org/
  2. Museum-area park to be restored (Sarah Tucker – The Examiner, 8/11/2013)Bell Park, located at the corner of Banks Street and Montrose Boulevard, will soon be restored. The park’s greenery has been slowly deteriorating since Hurricane Ike in 2008 and the recent drought. Some flower beds are bare, and the park even lost a tree after Ike. Concerned neighborhood residents and volunteers have teamed up with area churches and businesses, as well as the Houston Parks Board, Museum Area Municipal Association, Montrose Management District and the Coalition for the Homeless to help restore the park.
    http://www.yourhoustonnews.com/
  3. Reasons Unclear For Stark Drop In Number Of Endangered Sea Turtle Nests (Florian Martin – KUHF News, 8/12/2013)Last year, the number of the nests of the endangered Kemp’s ridley sea turtle along the Texas Gulf Coast was the highest on record when 209 nests were discovered. During this year’s nesting season, so-called turtle patrols found only 152, according to the National Park Service. This decline ends a rapid upward trend since 2003.
    http://app1.kuhf.org/
  4. Scoop.it Page. The CEC is now maintaining a page on Scoop.it. Check it out! http://www.scoop.it/t/citizens-environmental-coalition-houston

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GREEN JOBS Tell them you heard about it from us! Job listings can be found at CEC’s Green Jobs page.

  1. NEW! Texas Campaign for the Environment seeks Campaign Staff. Seeking a job that fully recognizes and utilizes your personal power to create positive change? Texas Campaign for the Environment is hiring passionate people to join their campaign staff. Be part of a team of like-minded individuals who are here for more than just a paycheck. TCE staff share a vision for a more sustainable, just society, and believe that grassroots organizing, or canvassing, is the best way to affect positive change; communicate with people in such a way that motivates them to get involved. Both full time and part time positions are available. To apply, visit the employment page at http://www.texasenvironment.org/jobs.cfm to complete the Houston application and submit it to the Office Manager, suzan@texasenvironment.org.
  2. Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Park Wide Supervisor. Buffalo Bayou Partnership (BBP) is overseeing major enhancement of Buffalo Bayou Park – Shepherd to Sabine, a 2.3 mile long, 160-acre City Park west of downtown Houston. The organization is seeking a Park Wide Supervisor for Shepherd to Sabine. Some of the essential functions include: Examine new or existing landscape sites and irrigation systems, examine repairs or modifications to ensure trades work and materials conform to prescribed quality and standards; Obtain evidence of failure to comply by sketching or photographing locations and features of deviations; Check irrigation system components including, but not limited to, water distribution lines, sprinkler heads, valves, pumps, nozzles and backflows devices for defects; Oversee the supervision of personnel, which includes work allocation, training, and problem resolution: evaluates performance and makes recommendations for personnel actions; motivates employees to achieve peak productivity and performance; Oversee turf and irrigation management activities in compliance with park standards; Oversee and coordinate tree care program, including all pruning, plant diagnosis, tree removal, and replacement, tree repairs, and tree hazard evaluations; and more. If interested, please send Cover Letter and Resume to: jobs@buffalobayou.org or Mr. Gregg Burks, BBP – S2S Park Director / 1113 Vine Street, Suite 200 / Houston, TX 77002. No phone calls please.
  3. The Woods Project seeks Club Program Instructors. The Woods Project is seeking part-time (approximately 6 hrs/wk) Club Program Instructors to teach one or more of our weekly afterschool club programs for the 2013 – 2014 school year. The right candidate will be an outdoorsperson with experience working with high school youth, preferably some experience with low income youth. Some additional requirements are flexible weekly schedule, access to personal transportation, must be comfortable with camping/backpacking gear, enjoy being in a mentor/leadership role. Duties will include travelling to schools to teach an hour club, working with existing curriculum as well as developing new research-based lessons. Instructors must commit to the 2013-2014 school year, attend one fall and spring semester camping trip, and are highly encouraged to participate in the 2014 summer trip to places in Northern California or Montana. Ability to work independently and with confidence is a requirement of the job, as is the ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing. For more information about The Woods Project and the Club Program Instructor position, please visit www.thewoodsproject.org. Interested candidates should contact Brittany White, Director of Programs, at brittany@thewoodsproject.org.
  4. Air Alliance Houston seeks Teaching Artist. Air Alliance Houston is the Houston region’s leading environmental health and air quality nonprofit. Their mission is to reduce air pollution in the Houston region and to protect public health and environmental integrity through research, education and advocacy. They are seeking a motivated individual to teach “Ozone Theater,” award winning, cross-collaborative lesson plans to k-8th graders in the Houston region. The Teaching Artist will work independently and in conjunction with the Education department on ongoing programs and new initiatives. This position will encompass a broad range of skills, including instruction on public health and quality of life, elementary to middle school education, data recording, paper work, and organizing. An ideal candidate will have a record of success working within the education field. Experience in all of these fields is not required, but intellectual and professional flexibility between fields and disciplines. Applications will be considered until the position is filled. Interested applicants should send complete resume and cover letter to hiring@airalliancehouston.org.
  5. National Wildlife Federation seeks Regional Development Manager (Austin). NWF is currently seeking a Regional Development Manager to primarily be responsible for the National Wildlife Federation’s philanthropic efforts in the South Central Region. The RDM has three primary functions: 1) to support and advance fundraising activities within the Region; 2) to keep abreast of and communicate both internally and externally the programmatic needs and accomplishments of the Region as they relate to broader cultivation and fundraising strategies; 3) to secure appropriate support from and collaboration with the Philanthropy Department to ensure that regional fundraising goals are met. Learn more and apply at www.nwf.org.
  6. Texas Living Waters seeks Attorney (Austin). The Texas Living Waters Project is a joint effort of the Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club and National Wildlife Federation as well as regional partner, Galveston Bay Foundation. Texas Living Waters is hiring an Attorney responsible for developing, recommending, and prosecuting environmental litigation (primarily in the form of participating in administrative proceedings related to water rights applications); developing and advancing changes in legal policy through regulatory and legislative venues; and assisting and coordinating with NWF Water Project staff and Texas Living Waters Project partners to improve water policy and management in Texas. The attorney will be responsible for identifying and implementing a wide range of legal and policy tools, including, but not limited to, state laws relating to management of surface water and groundwater and federal laws, such as the National Environmental Policy Act, the Endangered Species Act, the Fish and Wildlife Coordination Act, and the Clean Water Act. The position is responsible for reviewing, analyzing, and recommending revisions to existing and proposed regulations and legislation; providing legal assistance to NWF affiliates and like-minded organizations; traveling and making presentations in support of litigation and policy activities. If interested please apply on line: www.nwf.org.
  7. Harris County Flood Control District seeks Field Technician. Responsible for assisting the Storm Water Quality Department Manager in managing and monitoring environmental projects for the Storm Water Quality Department of Environmental Services Division to protect and enhance surfacewater quality in support of the District’s mission. Learn about the HCFCD job here.
  8. Recipe for Success seeks Seed-to-Plate Nutrition Educator. Train then Teach Children’s Nutrition Education for award-winning non-profit. Paid training involves web-based coursework and on the job training in classroom. Certified Instructors teach after school cooking and gardening classes and mentor wellness programs in elementary schools. Experience: minimum 1 year culinary experience; organic gardening skills & early childhood education a plus. Education: BA or equivalent experience. P/T. Start at $15/hour. Email cover letter of interest and resume to molly@recipe4success.org. http://recipe4success.org/
  9. H-GAC seeks Senior Air Quality Planner. The Senior Planner will serve as a primary staff for Transportation Air Quality Implementation Programs which may include Clean Air Action, Clean Vehicle and/or Commute Solutions activities. Coordinates and supports the efforts of local, state and federal agencies in complying with the various federal and state alternative fuel mandates and trading regulations. This position will support regional efforts to meet attainment of federal air quality standards by assisting in creatively analyzing and promoting transportation-related air quality programs and investigating other potential measures to help reduce ground level ozone. More at www.h-gac.com/careers.
  10. H-GAC seeks Air Quality Coordinator. Provides day-to-day oversight of the Clean Vehicles grant program and support to related programs including the region’s Clean Cities Coalition and H-GAC’s Drayage Loan Program. Supervises both technical and administrative aspects of the program, coordinates program staff, and tracks/analyzes metrics to ensure overall objectives are achieved. Reports to the Air Quality Program Manager, Transportation Department. More at www.h-gac.com/careers.

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LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

Texas Capitol StarCEC is sharing information during
the session about what bills our member groups and readers are
tracking. More information is available at cechouston.org/category/texas-legislature/.
The last day of the regular session was Monday, May 27, 2013,
followed by a special session for redistricting. On June 12, 2013,
the Governor called for additional legislation to be considered
during the special session. Learn more at www.legis.state.tx.us.

CEC will provide additional updates from our member groups soon.

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UPCOMING EVENTS
If you attend one of these events, please let them know you heard about it here! Visit the new calendar at cechouston.org.

Thursday, August 22, 2013

Sunday, August 25, 2013

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ABOUT THIS PUBLICATION This weekly update is
brought to you by the Citizens’ Environmental Coalition, established
as a 501(c)3 in 1971. CEC is a coalition of over 100 environmental
organizations dedicated to fostering dialogue, education, and
collaboration on environmental issues in the Houston / Gulf Coast
region. Visit the CEC on line at cechouston.org.

Do you know of something great going on? News? Events? Accomplishments?
Jobs? Let us know! Send submittals to news@cechouston.org. If possible, send information by Friday for inclusion the following Tuesday. We especially like short paragraphs, catchy titles, third person, and links to more information, but we will work with whatever you send us. Calendar items can be submitted up to two years in advance. We are always looking for volunteers to help keep our calendar up to date.

Donate Now!

CEC and other leading environmental organizations participate in payroll contribution plans at many Texas workplaces through Earth Share of Texas. Find out how you can support CEC at 800-GREENTX or www.earthshare-texas.org.

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CEC agencies receive donations when you choose Green Bank. Visit www.greenbank.com for more information about the program.

Rachel Powers, Executive Director
Sophany Touch, IREX Community Solutions Fellow/Wildlife Alliance
Page Slocum, Newsletter Editor

(713) 524-4232

news@cechouston.org
cechouston.org
www.facebook.com/cecHouston

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