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September 28, 2013

Houston Environmental News Update October 2, 2013

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Houston Environmental News Update October 2, 2013

CEC NOTES

  1. New subscribers
  2. Upcoming CEC Events
  3. We moved!

COALITION NOTES

  1. RSA/RDA Fall Lecture Series – RE:Architecture [NSFW]
  2. Bayou Greenways 2020 Groundbreaking
  3. Bayou Preservation Association’s 10th Annual Symposium: “A Decade of Significant Change.”
  4. 2013 Baytown Butterfly Count
  5. The Progressive Forum: Lester Brown
  6. Blanket Bingo benefiting BBP
  7. Galveston Bay Foundation Rain Barrel Workshop
  8. Music in the Park Featuring Ricardo Sweatt Rodriguez
  9. Haven Bayou Fest
  10. Tyke Hike at the Baytown Nature Center
  11. A Curious Garden – Fundraising Party
  12. 7th Annual KBR Kids Day
  13. TFH & CenterPoint Energy Tree Giveaway
  14. L.A.N.D.S. Outreach Teacher Workshop
  15. USGBC Construction & Demolition UnConference
  16. Livable Center Sponsors

COMMUNITY NOTES

  1. Houston Mayoral Debate
  2. SXSW Eco in Austin
  3. Organic Plant Health Workshop & Pesticide CEU Event
  4. The 71st Annual Bulb & Plant Mart
  5. Woodland Park Trailbuilding
  6. Workday at Champion Lake Butterfly Garden with Friends of Trinity River Refuge
  7. Sustainable Houston Town Hall Meeting
  8. State of Texas Recycling Alliance Conference & Reception
  9. The New Ecology: Managing for Resilience in a Changing World
  10. 2014 Ernest F. Hollings and EPP Undergraduate Scholarships
  11. Green Office Challenge – Houston

NEWS HEADLINES

  1. Harris County May Control Water Plans (Ross Ramsey – The New York Times, 9/14/2013)
  2. River authority OKs plan to cut off water (Matthew Tresaugue – Houston Chronicle, 9/18/2013)
  3. EPA proposal could block new coal plants (Matthew Tresaugue – Houston Chronicle, 9/21/2013)

GREEN JOBS

  1. NEW! Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center seeks Forester
  2. NEW! Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) seeks Water Policy & Outreach Specialist
  3. NEW! National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration seeks Natural Resource Management Specialist (Deadline Oct. 9, 2013)
  4. Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC) seeks Development Manager
  5. Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC) seeks IT Professional/Web Developer
  6. Houston Wilderness Seeks Event Planning Intern
  7. Environmental Defense Fund seeks Senior Assistant (Austin)
  8. Colorado River Alliance seeks Environmental Educator (Austin)
  9. The Outdoor Education Center at Camp Olympia seeks Camp Leaders
  10. Westchase District Farmers Market seeks Manager
  11. Scenic Houston seeks Development Coordinator
  12. Texas Campaign for the Environment seeks Campaign Staff
  13. The Woods Project seeks Club Program Instructors
  14. Air Alliance Houston seeks Teaching Artist

UPCOMING EVENTS

SUBSCRIBE/UNSUBSCRIBE INSTRUCTIONS

CEC NOTES

  1. New subscribers. CEC welcomes Sydnie and Lynnsey to our newsletter. Thank you Martha, Sarah, Henry, Caitlin, Marco, Al, Daniella, Liz, Bonnie, and Janice for visiting our booth at the Downtown Farmer’s Market last week.Thank you for subscribing!
  2. Additional Upcoming CEC Events.
    • October 30, 2013. USGBC Construction & Demolition UnConference
    • Tuesday, November 19, 2013, evening: “I recycled. I voted. What next?” A Collaborative Primer on Civic Engagement for Houston’s Environmental Community.
    • Thursday, February 13, 2014: Visions for a Greener Houston, CEC’s Environmental Summit.
  3. We moved! Our new office is at 1900 Kane Street, Suite 111, 77007. Our mailing address is PO Box 712, Houston, TX 77001. Our phone number (713-524-4232), email, and web address will remain the same. Office-warming party coming soon!

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COALITION NOTES

  1. RSA/RDA Fall Lecture Series – RE:Architecture [NSFW]. The Rice School of Architecture and the Rice Design Alliance’s Fall Lecture Series, Re: Architecture [NSFW], presents a new generation of architects operating across scales, methods, techniques, and sites of work. Rice School of Architecture Assistant Professor Troy Schaum, who curated the series, says he is “interested in introducing Houston to young firms that are building in unique ways, not easily categorized, and are refusing to play it safe.” Framed by the popular online tag NSFW [Not Safe For Work], Re: Architecture [NSFW] investigates how architects’ assumptions regarding safe boundaries for contemporary disciplinary investigation simultaneously limit and propel their creative practices. The lectures will take place every Wednesday night at 7pm at The Museum of Fine Arts, from September 25, 2013 to October 16, 2013. http://cechouston.org/
  2. Bayou Greenways 2020 Groundbreaking. Celebrate the groundbreaking of Bayou Greenways 2020 on October 2, 2013 from 4-5pm! Currently, the Heights Hike and Bike Trail stops abruptly, as does the White Oak Bayou trail further north along 11th Street. With this project, the gap will be closed and two great trails–the White Oak Bayou Trail and the Heights Hike and Bike trail–will be connected. The groundbreaking will be held at the end of the Heights Hike and Bike Trail near Shepherd (750 North Durham Drive). More at http://cechouston.org/.
  3. Bayou Preservation Association’s 10th Annual Symposium: “A Decade of Significant Change.” Bayou Preservation Association (BPA) will host its 10th Annual Symposium, “A Decade of Significant Change” on Thursday, October 3. This year’s event will reflect on the last ten years of Houston bayou preservation highlighting a decade of evolution at Harris County Flood Control District, the bayou-friendly results of the 83rd legislative session and an overall retrospective of watershed development and sustainability. The symposium will also focus on the next 10 years of emerging issues in water quality. The symposium will take place on October 3, 2013 at United Way. Cost is $50. http://cechouston.org/
  4. 2013 Baytown Butterfly Count. The 2013 Baytown Butterfly Count will be held on Saturday, October 5, 2013. Meet at the entrance to the Baytown Nature Center at 6213 Bayway Drive at 9:30am. There is a $3 fee to enter the nature center, if you don’t have a pass, and a $3 participation fee for NABA. As is tradition, there will a lunch break between noon and 1pm at the El Toro Restaurant on Decker Drive next to the Goose Creek Greenbelt Trail, where the count continues after lunch. The count lasts until dark, but you are welcome to help out any amount of time you can contribute! For information or to register, contact Sallie Sherman at 713-553-9706.
  5. The Progressive Forum: Lester Brown. Lester Brown will be speaking at The Progressive Forum on October 6, 2013 at 7:30pm. “One of the world’s most influential thinkers,” said the Washington Post. “The guru of the environmental movement,” said The Telegraph of Calcutta. The Library of Congress requested his papers, saying his writings “have strongly affected thinking about…world population and resources.” After publishing over 50 books, Lester Brown now releases his autobiography, Breaking New Ground: A Personal History, an inspirational memoir tracing his life as the son of a sharecropper to one who dines with heads of state. A pioneer in providing models for sustainable economies, Lester Brown founded the first institute devoted to analyzing environmental issues on a global basis, Worldwatch Institute, and later, Earth Policy Institute. He’s the winner of a MacArthur “genius” Award and the United Nation’s Environmental Prize. He has brought to the fore such issues as climate change, overpopulation, women’s education, lagging agricultural productivity, and the global economy, using impeccable research while proposing pragmatic, employable solutions. He will sign books and greet fans at the end of the evening. Tickets range from $19-59. See more at http://www.progressiveforumhouston.org/.
  6. Blanket Bingo benefiting BBP. Get ready for some B-I-N-G-O! Market Square Park hosts “Blanket Bingo,” a monthly entertainment series in which residents and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a night filled with music, fun and bingo. Proceeds from Blanket Bingo will help support Buffalo Bayou Partnership. This event will take place on the 2nd Thursday of the month through December (except in October when it happens on the first Thursday). The next bingo night will be on October 3, 2013 from 6-9pm. $10 admission includes one Bingo packet (approx. 10 games). Additional games and daubers can be purchased for $1 each. http://www.marketsquarepark.com/calendar/
  7. Galveston Bay Foundation Rain Barrel Workshop. Galveston Bay Foundation Rain Barrel Program: Reduce runoff— slow it down, spread it out, soak it in! Rain barrels are an efficient, low-cost method for collecting rainwater. They are placed at downspouts in order to reduce runoff into storm drains, and can be used for watering a garden or houseplants, among many other uses. Attend this workshop to learn the benefits of rain barrels, how to use them, as well as proper location and installation. The workshop will be held on October 5, 2013 at 10am at the Gloria Dei Lutheran Church, Nassau Bay, TX. The cost is $25, which includes a 35 gallon rain barrel and connector kit. Register at http://www.galvbay.org/rainbarrel/.
  8. Music in the Park Featuring Ricardo Sweatt Rodriguez. Willow Waterhole Greenspace Conservancy is hosting a concert on October 5, 2013 from 6:30-8:30pm at the South Gazebo at Willow Waterhole Conservation Reserve. Ricardo Sweatt Rodriguez will be featured on acoustic guitar. Come and be inspired! There will be free cookies and bottle water as well as Tejano Salsa and Honey’s Snow Cones available for purchase. Bring your own chairs and blankets. http://cechouston.org/
  9. Haven Bayou Fest. Join Urban Harbest for a family style Bayou Fest! Chef Randy Evens will open the doors of his seasonal kitchen for a shrimp boil spread srouced from local fields, farms, and bays. Zydeco tunes will accompany the shrimp, fixins, local beer, and rum punch. Laissez les bons temps rouler! The fest will be held on October 13, 2013 from 6-9pm at 2502 Algerian Way. Tickets are $125 and seating is limited. For more information or for reservations, contact Callie Easterly at havenbayoufest@gmail.com or 713-880-5540. More at http://cechouston.org/.
  10. Tyke Hike at the Baytown Nature Center. Visit the Baytown Nature Center on Wednesdays from 10-11am, September through November, for Tyke Hike! Tyke Hike is a one hour pre-school nature program for young children and their parents.
  11. A Curious Garden – Fundraising Party. Friends of Mandell Park will be hosting a fundraising party on October 17, 2013, at the home of Rebecca and Michael Jusbasche. It will be a cocktail party from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM. For additional information contact Friends of Mandell Park at FoMAndellPark@aol.com or Robert Shipman, Gala Coordinator at mandellpark@gmail.com.
  12. 7th Annual KBR Kids Day. Come out to Downtown’s Sabine Promenade on October 19, 2013 from 11am-3pm for the 7th Annual KBR Kids Day! A day filled with FREE family fun with a theme of all things and animals “Wild!” featuring hands-on nature-themed crafts, music, food, park performers, kayak demonstrations and boat rides on the bayou with many bayou critters to see up close, on the ground and in the air! More at http://cechouston.org/.
  13. TFH & CenterPoint Energy Tree Giveaway. This Fall, CenterPoint Energy and Trees For Houston have partnered up with the Arbor Day Foundation to give away 2,500 3-5 gallon trees as part of the Energy Saving Trees program. Studies have shown that the right trees planted in the right place can save up to 30 percent through summer shade and slowing cold winter winds, and these trees will be available to Houston-area electric customers who agree to plant them in energy-saving locations. CenterPoint Energy Houston-area electric customers who are interested in participating in the Energy Saving Trees program can visit arborday.org/centerpoint to learn more about the program and to register for a free tree. The program will run from Sept. 25 to Oct. 18, 2013, while supplies last. Learn more at http://www.yourhoustonnews.com/.
  14. L.A.N.D.S. Outreach Teacher Workshop. Attention Teachers! Texas Wildlife Association along with Armand Bayou Nature Center is hosting in your area a. . . Learning Across New Dimensions In Science (L.A.N.D.S.) Outreach Teacher Workshop! This is a free workshop for elementary teachers in the Harris & surrounding county region teaching our Wildlife & Habitat-Based curriculum. Wildlife-based curriculum, aligned to the TEKS for life sciences, and organism & environments. The workshop will be held on October 26, 2013 from 9am-3:30pm at the Armand Bayou Nature Center. Cost is free with attendance! Preregistration Fee of $15 required to hold your seat & refunded upon attendance. Lunch not provided. Register today by emailing Heather Millar at heather@abnc.org. http://cechouston.org/
  15. USGBC Construction & Demolition UnConference. The next USGBC UnConference has been rescheduled for October 30, 2013. http://usgbctexasgulfcoast.org/
  16. Livable Center Sponsors. The Houston-Galveston Area Council (H-GAC) is seeking proposals from local governments or other eligible project sponsors to conduct Livable Centers planning studies. The objective of the planning studies is to help create quality, walkable,  mixed-use places, create multi-modal travel choices, improve environmental quality, and promote economic development and housing choice. Study recommendations will ideally lead to locally sponsored Livable Centers projects for possible inclusion in the Regional Transportation Plan (RTP) and future Transportation Improvement Programs (TIP). Note: This is not a request for proposals from consulting firms. More info on the H-GAC website. Deadline: November 1, 2013.

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COMMUNITY NOTES

  1. Houston Mayoral Debate. The League of Women Voters of the Houston Area are pleased to announce that in conjunction with KUHT Houston PBS Channel 8 it will be hosting the ONLY televised mayoral debate on October 8, 2013. Learn more about the event on the League’s Facebook page.
  2. SXSW Eco in Austin. Following an amazing second year, SXSW Eco has quickly become a significant connector for professionals working to solve the complex challenges facing civil society, the economy and the natural world. Hosting an international audience of thought leaders and decision makers, this three-day event serves as the platform to evolve these critical matters towards actionable and profitable solutions. SXSW Eco provides unique networking opportunities and cross-sector discussion for diverse, passionate and pragmatic professionals in the public, private and academic sectors. SXSW Eco is for those individuals and organizations at the razor’s edge of this effort, as well as for those ready to learn and get down to business. Houston locals, Brian Yeoman and Laura Spanjian, will be speaking on “One Bin for All.” The event will be held from October 7-9, 2013 at the Austin Convention Center. Learn more at http://www.sxsweco.com/.
  3. Organic Plant Health Workshop & Pesticide CEU Event. Attend this workshop on October 4, 2013, 7:30am-3:30pm, at the Texas AgriLife Extension Office to learn about plant health and pesticides! Topics include: organic weed control, beneficial insects, building healthy soils, and more! Earn 5 CEUs from TDA and Structural pending. Cost is $60 per person. More at http://organicplanthealth.eventbrite.com/.
  4. The 71st Annual Bulb & Plant Mart. The Garden Club of Houston’s 71st Annual Plant and Bulb Mart will be October 4-5, 2013. One of the largest horticultural events in Texas, the 71st Annual Bulb & Plant Mart will feature the widest selection of quality bulbs from domestic and international suppliers and an expanded collection of hard-to-find plants, perennials, trees, shrubs, and vines. Many of the plants and bulbs are unique offerings from the gardens of Club members, grown specifically for the Mart. Come out and meet Randy Lemmon, KTRH’s Garden Guy (October 5, 11am-1pm)! More at http://www.gchouston.org/.
  5. Woodland Park Trailbuilding. The Friends of Woodland Park will be sponsoring a trail building and clean up day at Woodland Park on Saturday, Oct. 5, 2013, from 9am-noon. Help move and spread mulch (graciously delivered by the City of Houston!) along the existing trails, and pickup trash throughout the park. Woodland Park needs some TLC! Please dress appropriately with closed toe shoes and long pants…clothing that can get dirty, wet, and muddy. The FWP will be borrowing some equipment, but if you have a wheelbarrow, metal rake, or shovel please bring it along. Make sure any equipment you bring has your name on it. FWP will provide gloves, trash bags, water and bug spray. More at http://cechouston.org/.
  6. Workday at Champion Lake Butterfly Garden with Friends of Trinity River Refuge. Friends of Trinity River Refuge will be hosting a volunteer workday at the Champion Lake Butterfly Garden on Saturday, October 5, 2013 from 9am until noon. There will be 10 yards of mulch to spread and tons of weeds to remove. This garden is used by more than 3 dozen species of butterflies and numerous ruby-throated hummingbirds. The 5,000 sq ft. garden is located off of FM 1409 at the end of CR 417, about 10 miles south of Dayton. Bring gloves, garden tools and a wheel barrow if you have one and we will supply the drinks. http://cechouston.org/
  7. Sustainable Houston Town Hall Meeting. The Shell Center for Sustainability is convening the Sustainable Houston Town Hall Meeting to bring together a large coalition of neighborhood leaders committed to a more sustainable Houston. Community leaders, sustainability experts, private sector partners, and interested citizens are encouraged to participate. Sessions are open to all attendees. The objective is to provide an opportunity for discussion and debate. It is also an opportunity to ensure that all neighborhoods in the city share their specific needs and visions. At the heart of the meeting is the vision to develop Houston into a more livable, resilient, efficient, equitable and prosperous city. The meeting will be held on the Rice University campus. The agenda includes a kick-off talk and reception with Jason Roberts (TBC), and Rob Hopkins, on Tuesday evening; a presentation of the Houston Sustainability Indicators (HSI) Study, a panel of experts, and more on Wednesday, October 8-9, 2013. There is no cost to attend. View the agenda and register at: https://shellcenter.rice.edu/.
  8. State of Texas Recycling Alliance Conference & Reception. As part of the Summit this year, STAR will be hosting a networking reception and opening the exhibit hall up to the invited public on Monday, October 14, 2013, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at no charge. The reception will begin at 5 p.m. (to allow folks time to arrive after work) and will include STAR’s Environmental Leadership Awards presentation and ceremony, as well as the auction. Light snacks and a cash bar will be available, and we’re hoping to get some new faces from the environmental community in Houston in the door to meet our exhibitors, network with our attendees, and learn a little more about STAR. The conference is October 13-16, 2013, at the Hyatt Regency hotel in downtown Houston. Learn more and register at www.recyclingstar.org/summit.html.
  9. The New Ecology: Managing for Resilience in a Changing World. Join Society for Ecological Restoration, Texas Chapter, and Texas Riparian Association along the banks of the South Llano River on the campus of Texas Tech University’s Llano River Field Station for TXSER and TRA’s 2013 Conference, The New Ecology: Managing for Resilience in a Changing World. Participants will enjoy: Friday field trips and workshop; stimulating presentations on topics related to restoration, management and conservation issues in Texas; opportunities to network with fellow environmentalists; delicious meals; a social and poster session; and awards for lifetime achievement in the field and for student posters and presentations. The conference will be held November 1-2, 2013. Registration is now open. Learn more at https://www.eventbrite.com/.
  10. 2014 Ernest F. Hollings and EPP Undergraduate Scholarships. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is pleased to announce the availability of scholarships to students majoring in STEM disciplines related to oceanic and atmospheric science, research, or technology, and supportive of the purposes of NOAA’s programs and mission, e.g., biological, social and physical sciences; mathematics; engineering; and computer and information sciences. The application deadline for both scholarships is January 31, 2014. More at http://www.oesd.noaa.gov/.
  11. Green Office Challenge – Houston. The City of Houston is looking to commercial property managers and office tenants to demonstrate leadership in environmental performance throughout the City of Houston. Participating in the Green Office Challenge allows your business – and Houston – to get a head start on meeting these critical targets. Get linked to resources that will make it easy to improve the energy efficiency of your building or office space – and save you some real green. The Houston Green Office Challenge is a friendly competition for commercial property managers and office tenants that acknowledges participants for their achievements in greening their operations through Mayoral and media recognition. The Green Office Challenge helps participants move down the path towards environmental sustainability and, in some cases, towards third-party green building certification through the ENERGY STAR and LEEDâ„¢ rating systems. Learn more at http://www.houstongoc.org/about.
  12. News from TCEQ.
    • Seats are still available for the Water Quality/Stormwater Seminar next week: October 3-4, 2013 at the DoubleTree Hotel in Austin For more information and to register, click here.
    • 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.
    • Rulemaking Actions: New pending rule adoption: decommissioning Stage II gasoline vapor recovery systems at gasoline dispensing facilities, in response to changes in federal requirements.
    • Upcoming hearings: Environmental Flows in the Brazos River, 10/15/2013; Triennial Revision of 30 TAC Chapter 307, Texas Surface Water Quality Standards, 10/17/2013
    • TCEQ Agenda meeting: October 9, 2013: wastewater permit in Fort Bend County; suspension of certain water rights in the Colorado River basin; various enforcement actions for air and water quality, petroleum storage tanks, sludge application, and revisions to the State Implementation Plan (SIP) for air quality.
    • Permit Hearings: Proposed air quality permit in Waller County, 9/30/2013; NEW! proposed amendment to a municipal solid waste permit near West 11th Street Park in Harris County, 10/17/2013.
  13. 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).
    • Bastrop, Back to Its Roots
    • Wyman Meinzer’s West Texas
    • Casting Call
  14. Air Quality Forecast. http://www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/monops/forecast_today.html. Houston Clean Air Network and Realtime Ozone Mapping: http://houstoncleanairnetwork.com.
    • October 1, 2013: Yellow–Moderate–Ozone. If incoming background levels are high enough, winds may be light enough for ozone to reach “Moderate” levels on the north and northwest sides of the Houston.
    • October 2, 2013: Green–Good. Moderate winds and low incoming background levels should help to keep air quality in the “Good” range statewide.
    • October 3, 2013: Green–Good. Moderate winds and low incoming background levels should help to keep air quality in the “Good” range statewide.

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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. Harris County May Control Water Plans (Ross Ramsey – The New York Times, 9/14/2013)
    The wettest part of the state will have an outsize say in the state’s water planning. Houston could account for one-third of the votes in November’s constitutional-amendment election on $2 billion for water projects around the state. In places where the lawns are still green and relatively unthreatened, voter awareness of the state’s water problems may fall behind other concerns, like what to do with the giant hunk of concrete and steel known as the Astrodome.
    http://www.nytimes.com/
  2. River authority OKs plan to cut off water (Matthew Tresaugue – Houston Chronicle, 9/18/2013)
    A Central Texas river authority on Wednesday approved an emergency plan that could cut off critical freshwater from one of the state’s most productive bays. The plan, which still needs to be approved by the state environmental regulators, would allow the Lower Colorado River Authority to withhold water from flowing into Matagorda Bay for four months or until lake levels near Austin reach a certain height. Environmentalists, fishermen and officials in Matagorda County condemned the decision, saying the river authority has entered a dangerous phase that could upset the ecosystem’s delicate balance.
    http://www.chron.com/
  3. EPA proposal could block new coal plants (Matthew Tresaugue – Houston Chronicle, 9/21/2013)
    The Obama administration proposed rules Friday to sharply limit carbon dioxide emissions from new power plants, a move that fulfills the president’s promise to fight climate change but could block any coal-fired unit from being built. The rules, the first such federal limits on greenhouse gases, effectively require future coal plants to capture and store some of their emissions of carbon dioxide. But industry, which is already preparing to challenge the rules in court, said the emerging technology is extraordinarily expensive, making the regulatory bar too high to meet.
    http://www.houstonchronicle.com/
  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! Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center seeks Forester. Under the direct supervision of the park superintendent, the forester professionally plans, implements and maintains aspects of Jesse H. Jones Park & Nature Center’s native forested areas and landscaping. This position requires a self-motivated individual with a “can do attitude,” willing to work indoors or outdoors in all weather conditions, not afraid to get their hands dirty, and capable of conducting a variety of tasks in the course of a normal day. Required knowledge includes tree identification, diseases and treatment, and skilled with forestry equipment and tree felling techniques. Responsibilities also include growing and maintaining native plants, developing and maintaining the park’s landscape, presenting natural history programs, developing interpretive signage, using communication skills with the general public and volunteers. Polite communication skills and willingness to interact with the general public and volunteers on an informal basis are essential traits. A four-year B.S. degree in horticulture, natural or environmental science, or comparable experience desired. Work varying shifts including weekends and evenings. The starting salary is commensurate with experience. Contact Darlene Conley Hostetler at 281-446-8588 or DConley@hcp4.net for a full job description and Harris County Precinct 4 employment application. For more information about Jones Park check the website at www.hcp4.net/jones.
  2. NEW! Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) seeks Water Policy & Outreach Specialist. GBF seeks a full-time Water Policy & Outreach Specialist to work under the supervision of GBF’s Director of Advocacy and in coordination with Texas Living Waters Project Partners (National Wildlife Federation and the Lone Star Chapter of the Sierra Club). The Water Policy & Outreach Specialist will advocate for the development and implementation of policy initiatives for the protection and acquisition of freshwater inflows to Galveston Bay and for the efficient use of existing water supplies in the Houston/Galveston area through water conservation. The individual will expand support for freshwater inflow protection and the advancement of water conservation in the region to benefit Galveston Bay. For specific duties and qualifications, please view the full job description at http://galvbay.org/aboutus_jobs.html. To apply, send resume via email to sjones@galvbay.org by October 18, 2013.
  3. NEW! National Oceanic And Atmospheric Administration seeks Natural Resource Management Specialist (Deadline Oct. 9, 2013). Unlock secrets in deep oceans, track rapidly moving storms, operate state-of-the-art environmental satellites, chart the Nation’s waterways, formulate models to forecast climate trends, protect and preserve our living marine resources…it’s all in a day’s work at NOAA! Join a dedicated workforce committed to a vital mission: safeguarding the public, protecting natural resources, strengthening the economy. A career that makes a world of difference! This is a term position–not to exceed 2 years. It may be extended for a total of four years. Duties include: leading the NOAA Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Science, Observation, Monitoring and Technology Program; coordinating science, observation, monitoring and technology initiatives for the Program; leading coordination, planning and implementation efforts; developing partnerships among stakeholders; and developing and leveraging scientific activities in the Gulf of Mexico. There is only 1 vacancy for this announcement, however, it may be filled in any of the following locations: Stennis Space Center, MS – Galveston, TX – Mobile, AL – Baton Rouge, LA – OR St. Petersburg, FL. Learn more at https://www.usajobs.gov/. The application deadline is October 9, 2013.
  4. Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC) seeks Development Manager. HARC seeks a professional to fill the position of Development Manager who is responsible for planning, implementing, managing and overseeing fundraising initiatives at HARC. HARC is a 501(c)(3) organization that works as a research hub providing independent analysis on energy, air, and water issues to people seeking scientific answers. HARC is focused on building a sustainable future that helps people thrive and nature flourish. Additional details about the positions are available online at http://mitchell.harc.edu/About/Jobs/. Please submit resumes to HARC via the same website.
  5. Houston Advanced Research Center (HARC) seeks IT Professional/Web Developer. HARC seeks an IT professional to join the IT team to focus on Web Development. HARC is a 501(c)(3) organization that works as a research hub providing independent analysis on energy, air, and water issues to people seeking scientific answers. HARC is focused on building a sustainable future that helps people thrive and nature flourish. Additional details about the positions are available online at http://mitchell.harc.edu/About/Jobs/. Please submit resumes to HARC via the same website.
  6. Houston Wilderness Seeks Event Planning Intern. Houston Wilderness seeks an energetic and creative individual to assist with the planning and implementation of the Houston Wilderness Annual Luncheon, Collaborative Access events, and other events as needed. The Event Planning Intern will be able to list development and completion of projects on their resume. This is a paid Internship available from September 2013 – March 2014. Please email resume, cover letter, and three references to holly@houstonwilderness.org. Please apply by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, October 4, 2013. More information can be found here: http://houstonwilderness.org/.
  7. Environmental Defense Fund seeks Senior Assistant (Austin). With world attention focused on both the environment and the economy, Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) is where policymakers and business leaders turn for win-win solutions. The Senior Assistant provides executive-level support to the Vice President, US Climate and Energy in EDF’s Austin, Texas office. Using key operational skills, this is an excellent opportunity for a dedicated and skilled Senior Assistant to partner with a strong leader in the central hub of a transformational nonpartisan advocacy campaign on a complex environmental issue, and to gain knowledge of current climate and energy matters. Key responsibilities include: Maintain busy calendar and arrange extensive travel for VP; Develop schedule effectively relative to VP”s short-term needs, long-term plan and yearly goals; Act as coordinator and manage VP”s day and maximize efficient use of VP”s time; Prepare VP for meetings including printing documents, collecting supporting documentation and researching background information; Keep informed about major projects; learn and stay abreast of current priorities as they relate to the VP”s goals and strategy; and Prepare written communications and correspondence on behalf of the VP, including research as required. Read the full job description at http://tano.org/.
  8. Colorado River Alliance seeks Environmental Educator (Austin). If you love the Texas Colorado River, then this is the job for you! The Colorado River Alliance, a small nonprofit based in Austin, TX, seeks an innovative, energetic part-time Environmental Educator to make the River come to life for thousands of central Texas students through our exciting education programs. Expect to spend your time outdoors on the beautiful grounds of the Wilkerson Center for Colorado River Education, using hands-on activities and games to teach groups of elementary-aged students about our water resources. In addition to teaching regularly, the Educator will be the “right-hand (wo)man” to our Program Coordinator, helping manage day to day program operations including program scheduling and evaluation. This is an excellent opportunity to build your program coordination skills! More at http://www.501community.org/.
  9. The Outdoor Education Center at Camp Olympia seeks Camp Leaders. The Outdoor Education Center at Camp Olympia has immediate openings for Camp Leaders. Camp Leaders teach and supervise 5th grade students during their 4 day 3 night experience. Activities include instruction at the Model Farm, Aquatic Studies, Forest Studies, Conservation, Adventure activities and numerous evening activities such as astronomy and night hikes. All activities are designed to follow school district and state guidelines. Compensation includes salary, health benefits, sick days, room and board, and paid training. For more information, visit the website at www.hisdoec.com or email Tom Cosper at tcosper@houstonisd.org.
  10. Westchase District Farmers Market seeks Manager. Westchase District works to enhance economic development within the Westchase District boundaries through a variety of programs that improve mobility, public safety, beautification, marketing, and long-range planning. The Farmers Market will serve as a community gathering place, while providing the citizens of West Houston access to high quality, locally-produced, seasonal fresh foods. Westchase District is seeking a highly motivated individual to serve as Market Manager, working under the direction of Westchase District’s Vice President of Communication. The position is part-time and does not include benefits. Annual wage for manager is budgeted at $30,000. The manager will be responsible for all day-to-day operations of the Westchase Farmers Market, including: recruiting vendors, making farm visits, and maintaining vendor records; coordinating the physical requirements of opening and closing the market; enforcing the market operating rules; handling emergencies and complaints; maintaining a market information booth; keeping a weekly market log and collecting vendor fees; and more. If interested, please send your resume to 713-780-8025 (fax) or hiring@westchasedistrict.com. No phone calls please.
  11. Scenic Houston seeks Development Coordinator. Scenic Houston is a small non-profit doing big work for Houston. For decades, their dedicated team has successfully collaborated with government, business, and community leaders to beautify Houston’s streetscapes in significant ways. Growing support for their efforts has allowed them to expand their team. They are currently seeking a Development Coordinator to assist the President in the implementation of our strategic growth plan. The Coordinator will plan and direct a broad range of development activities that support Scenic Houston’s continued success including interface with potential individual, corporate and foundation funders, planning fundraising events, grant writing and the development of an effective public relations strategy. The candidate should be a highly creative and dynamic individual with a passion for the mission and the ability to communicate that passion successfully to a wide range of high-level professionals. To find out more about Scenic Houston, please visit their website www.scenichouston.org. If you are interested in applying for this position, please send your cover letter and resume to info@scenichouston.org. No phone calls, please.
  12. 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.
  13. 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.
  14. 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.

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

Sunday, October 6, 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.

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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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