China to Build Nuclear Reactors in Pakistan

China to Build Two Nuclear Reactors in Pakistan, FT Reports
April 29, 2010, 2:45 AM EDT
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e-mail this story print this story digg this save to del.icio.us add to Business Exchange April 29 (Bloomberg) -- China has agreed to build two civilian nuclear reactors in Pakistan, the Financial Times reported, citing Chinese companies and unnamed government officials in Beijing and Islamabad.

The Chinese government gave approval for the construction of at least two 650-megawatt reactors in Chashma in Punjab province, according to the report. The FT didn’t say the agreement was for which phase of construction.

China’s accord to build the reactors in Pakistan heightened concerns about the safety of nuclear equipment in the South Asian nation, which is battling Taliban militants in the northwest. U.S. President Barack Obama won commitments from 46 nations, including China and Pakistan, to lock down nuclear material and keep it out of the hands of terrorists after a two- day summit in Washington ended April 14.

China and Pakistan signed an agreement to finance two 340- megawatt nuclear reactors in Chashma in February after an initial accord for the construction of the plants was agreed in 2008, China National Nuclear Corp. said in a statement on its Web site on March 1.

The 340-megawatt reactors are to be built under the third and fourth phase of the Chashma project, according to the March statement. The Chinese company, China’s biggest operator of nuclear reactors, constructed the first two reactors in Chashma.

The accord also puts China at odds with India. The two nations, which fought a war in 1962, are trying to boost relations and end years of mistrust and disagreements that include Chinese construction in Pakistan-controlled Kashmir.

Chen Xibo, spokesman for China National Nuclear, couldn’t be reached on his office and mobile phone for comment. Qin Zhijun, the head of the nuclear power department at the National Energy Administration, China’s top energy planning body, didn’t answer calls to his office telephone.

--Chua Baizhen. Editors: Ang Bee Lin, Ryan Woo.

Loyalist Lives- Curious?

Blogger's Note: No address was given with this post for Holdsworth House. This is your opportunity to phone Heritage at Municipal council office, or go in and talk with Robert Hersey-he's great!


Special Events


A DAY IN THE LIFE OF THE LOYALIST
August 29th, 2010
12noon--4 pm


Come and spend a day at the Holdsworth House c.1784 and experience first hand, what life was like for the Loyalist settlers of the Towne of Digby in the 18th century. You will be given a guided tour of the Holdsworth House telling you of the Holdsworth family that built and lived in this home until the late 1990's.


In the restored open-hearth kitchen, we will be preparing a traditional meal, all cooked over open flame. Take this time to sample tasty treats, including bread baked in the brick oven. Since it will be summer's end, preserving and canning will also be demonstrated at this time.


Outside on the property, overlooking the majestic Bay Of Fundy, costumed interpreters will tell you of our Heirloom vegetable garden. All vegetable seeds were selected to reflect what would have be available to the gardener in the 18th and 19th
century. Have you ever had "Cardoon" in your stew? Do you wonder what a white tomato would taste like? Why do they call this beet a blood turnip?



During this time we will be cleaning the fleece sheared from the sheep and preparing it for dyeing. All the dyes come from natural plants and other dye-stuff that would have been available to the early homesteaders.

Admission:free will offering


HAUNTED HISTORY WALK
If you are interested in the Darker Side of Digby's history, join Margaret on the Haunted History walk.
August 24th, 26th, and 28th. The walk starts at the Holdsworth House in the evening hour of 8 o'clock.
The walk ends at the Holdsworth House approximately one and one-half hours later, where refreshments are served and the story telling continues.
You may even see the Grimm Reaper!!!!!!!!!!!
$8.00/person

Bear River Health Clinic News

Bear River & Area Community Health Clinic
Clinic Hours: Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 4:00 pm
Email: bear.riverclinic@ns.sympatico.ca
Website: bearriverandareaclinic.ca
Phone: 467-3611 Fax: 467-3339
May 2010
Acupuncture – Traditional Chinese Acupuncture by Joe Kubinec. Traditional Chinese Acupuncture by Joe
Kubinec is available on Wednesdays unless otherwise posted. This treatment is good for back pain,
arthritis, menopause, headaches, insomnia, stop smoking and many other conditions. Appointments are
booked through the Clinic.
Audiology – Neil Hackett is in every other Friday to help with your hearing needs. Please call 1-866-299-
2016 to book appointment.
BodyTalk System –Jocelyn incorporates balancing techniques using muscle testing. Your body determines
healing priorities. Book appointments through the Clinic. For further information call Jocelyn at
467-0771 or visit www.bodytalksystem.com
Counselling/Clinical Hypnotherapy – Gayle Allen is in once a month, beginning the 18th of this month, to
help you with a great number of concerns. Call the Clinic to book appointments and for more info.
You can also call Gayle for more info at 526-2850.
Electrolysis – Ronda Best is in once a month for all your hair removal needs. Call 1-902-791-0953 for
more information or to book your appointment.
Esthetics –Charlene Decker is in monthly for waxing, manicures and pedicures. To book an appointment
or for more information, call 1-902-362-2137.
Juniper House Outreach – Lori is available to see clients at our Clinic. Please call 245-4789 to book your
appointment.
Physician Services – Dr. Roy Harding is seeing patients by appointment only. Due to high patient
numbers, Dr. Harding has had to limit his practice to those he has already seen here at our Clinic.
Senior Services – Nurse Practitioner, Dianne Corbett, RN specializes in concerns specific to the elderly,
such as memory loss, complicated medical conditions and poor coordination/balance. For more
information or to book an appointment, call the Clinic.
Note: Times and dates are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.
Join us in Welcoming Gayle Allen…
Gayle offers counseling and medical hypnotherapy which
can help with ADHD, addictions, body image, cancer,
concentration, headaches/migraine, nail biting, pain
relief, phobias, relaxation, skin and sleep disorders,
smoking cessation, weight control among many other
issues.
For more info, or to book your appointment, phone 467-
3611. If just looking for more info, Gayle can be reached
at [902] 526-2850 or harhypno@msn.com
Spa Day at the Clinic
Pamper your Mom this year with a special day out.
Begin or end it with a spa visit!
Four treatments of ½ hour each, combined with snacks
and refreshments, all for only $100!
Treatments include: Choice of facial acupuncture/acupressure;
therapeutic foot massage/Quantum Touch;
Body Talk session and a pedicure.
Tickets available at the Clinic. Very limited supply.
Proceeds are for Relay for Life
Board meetings are the first Tuesday of each month and are open to the public.
Please note the Board does not meet in July and August.
NOTICE: The Board of Directors for the Bear River & Area Community Health Clinic is in urgent need
of new Board Members. Please consider getting involved in decisions about our Community’s health!

Forestry and Biomass

NS: Renewable Electricity Plan concerns forest industry
By Staff, Transcontinental Media

Source: The Daily Business Buzz, Apr. 28/10

[TRURO, NS] – The Forest Products Association of Nova Scotia (FPANS) has concerns with Nova Scotia’s new Renewable Electricity Plan released on April 23 by the provincial government.

FPANS has long been an advocate for third-party certification programs that promote sustainable forest management. FPANS also promotes the fact there are a number of programs that meet that standard, not just one. The Association is concerned the government is creating a monopoly for one certification system and limiting the options electricity producers will have for using biomass.

FPANS believes unnecessarily restrictive limitations have been set by requiring all forest biomass used to produce new green electricity to come only from companies with lands that are Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified.

The plan places further restrictions requiring that biomass come only from stem boles (tree stems) and not from tree tops, limbs, bark, etc. FPANS is concerned that this requirement is not based in science.

“By placing these restrictions on where biomass can come from, we believe the government has taken environmental and economic opportunities away from countless Nova Scotians and will have a direct effect on the forest industry,” says Steve Talbot, executive director of FPANS. “We fully understand the importance of ensuring forest sustainability – that’s our livelihood – but why make arbitrary restrictions that cut out the vast majority of woodland owners, forest fibre providers or potential energy producers from helping provide more green energy to this province.”

FPANS also has concerns the plan didn’t move forward with feed-in-tariffs (FITs) for small-scale electricity production at private businesses, like sawmills and farms. With access to a more open FIT program, these companies could have sold excess electricity to the grid with small changes to their current energy production systems. Without the guaranteed return of a FIT program, these projects will not move forward with helping to secure industry jobs and reach the province’s green energy targets.

Ever Heard of the Maritime Breeding Bird Atlas?

Contact info at end

The final field season for the Maritimes Breeding Bird Atlas is underway. Some or our year-round birds are already breeding and some of the early migrants are starting to arrive. This is a great time of the year to try to get around at dusk and see what you can hear. Just going out into my back yard in the last few weeks I have heard a barred owl calling (new to the square) and last night I had a northern saw-whet owl singing in the woods behind my house. That was a first for me! There are a lot of squares in Region 16 that are seeing the species for the first time. Are they in yours?


How is Region 16 Progressing? I have looked over the data for the region and am very happy with the work that you have all done, in coordination with the field teams from the atlas office. Out of the 21 priority squares in the region, 12 are finished (possibly 13 as one square's data from last year is still in progress) and the rest are reasonably close to completion. Of the 54 non-priority squares, 11 are completed, and another 10 only need point counts to complete them. There are squares that had no data in the first atlas that have lots of species reported this time around, and there are a lot of squares that can still use some work. So, what's the plan?


Priorities for 2010: Since this is the last field season for the atlas, you should have already gotten a set of forms and a letter outlining the main goals that still need to be met. The biggest thing for the final year will be to hope that some of the people who have squares which are completed, will want to move one and finish off another one, or do point counts is some that still need that finished.


There are three main things to keep in mind.


• You should let me know what you want to do as soon as possible so that we don't duplicate effort.
• I'm hoping people can fill out their data entry on-line in several batches throughout the season so that I can keep tabs on the progress of the squares.
• New species in squares is more important than bumping up breeding evidence.


See the next item for where the most work is needed. I'll also be sending notes to people who are still working on squares, in the next day or so, but if your square is done and you want to tackle something else. let me know!
Patrick Kelly




Maritime Breeding Bird Atlas

Regional Coordinator

Region 16 (Annapolis Valley—Digby Neck)




RR#2 159 Town Road

Falmouth NS B0P 1L0

Canada




(902) 472-2322 (h) (902) 494-3294 (w) (902) 423-6672 (f)

ADEDA News

In the first quarter of 2010, the economy has grown faster than anticipated by the Bank of Canada. And according to the latest from StatsCan, the country’s core inflation rate dropped slightly in March. Although we may not be fully out of the woods, there appears to be a clearing just ahead. In fact, there’s a real sense of optimism in the air, isn’t there? On that note, let’s have a look at what’s happening in Annapolis Digby this week…

CLEARING THE AIR
Last week, the province introduced a bill to create a voluntary carbon offset fund to help reduce greenhouse-gas emissions, expand the green economy, and allow us all breathe a little easier. Through this fund, companies and organizations will be encouraged to develop Nova Scotia-based projects that will in turn create emission credits.

SPEAKING WITHOUT FEAR OR FAVOR
An historic Digby county newspaper, The Tiny Tattler, has officially entered the digital age. Once known around the globe for its coverage of events ‘without fear or favor’ – a motto I can’t help but love – was also known as Canada’s smallest newspaper. Yes, small but mighty.

BRIDGETOWN HOSTS NOBEL NOMINEE
Lucky you, if you were able to snag a ticket to this sold-out event! On May 3, three-time Nobel Peace Prize Nominee, Craig Kielburger – just 24 years old – will talk about his 12 year journey as a humanitarian, child rights advocate and award winning author, offering a unique opportunity for area youth to positively shape the community.

PORT ROYAL TO LAUNCH MEMBERTOU 400
On June 24, Membertou 400 celebrations will kick off at the Port Royal National Historic Site with an amazing educational and entertaining program for the whole community to share. This free family event will celebrate the many cultural contributions made by the Mi’kmaq people, and the life of Grand Chief Henri Membertou. After four hundred years, his legacy of leading with a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect lives on – and that is indeed a man to celebrate.

IBEY HAPPY
NSCC’s second annual Student Business Ideas Competition has yielded a potentially life-saving design for a device that would enable first responders to act more quickly at an accident scene. ADEDA congratulates competition winner Fred Ibey, who will be our featured guest at next month’s Tech Social!

This Thursday, don’t miss the opportunity to take part in an open-forum discussion about the local creative economy, featuring Dr. Greg Baeker, one of Canada’s leading thinkers on the subject.

From Kathleen Shea

NS and the Georges Banks

NS: Province in hot seat over Georges Bank moratorium
By Tina Comeau, Transcontinental Media

Source: The Sou'wester, April 26, 2010

[YARMOUTH, NS] — With the Nova Scotia government needing to make a decision by June 1 on whether to extend the drilling moratorium that exists on Georges Bank, many people are growing impatient and want to know what the government intends to do.

Last week Digby-Annapolis MLA and Liberal fisheries critic Harold Jr. Theriault asked the NDP government to come clean on its policy for drilling on Georges Bank.

“I’ve been asking Minister (Sterling) Belliveau since last fall what his government’s position is on the issue and I’ve never gotten an answer. There’s no need to wait five weeks to tell Nova Scotians. Just do the right thing and extend the moratorium on Georges Bank past 2012.”

The year 2012 is when the moratorium — in place since June 1999 — is slated to end.

“Before taking government (the NDP) opposed any drilling on Georges Bank,” said Theriault. “Now it appears that the NDP are seriously thinking about allowing rigs on Georges Bank.”


File Map - The Sou'wester

Cape Breton North MLA Cecil Clarke has called on the government to convene a panel that will examine the moratorium that is set to expire in 32 months. He said it is important to ensure enough time is allocated for a comprehensive review. The original panel took almost three years to render its decision.

“We want to see due diligence in ensuring both industry and environmental concerns are considered in this matter,” Clarke said.

But others say another wake-up call to government is right before their eyes. Those in the fishing industry and others who are opposed to ending the moratorium say that just hours after Nova Scotia Fisheries and Environment Minister Sterling Belliveau told legislative colleagues that modern-day technology makes an oil rig accident “very unlikely,” a huge explosion ripped through a state-of-the-art drilling rig in the Gulf of Mexico. The blast injured 13 men and news sources were reporting that 300,000 barrels of crude oil is leaking, per day, into the sea. Eleven other people were thrown into the sea during the explosion and presumed dead.

“We are sickened by the sight of the massive blaze, the spilling of possibly millions of liters of oil into the ocean and the terrible loss of life in the Gulf,” said Judith Maxwell of the Scotia Fundy Inshore Fisherman’s Association. “But we are just as sickened by the thought that this government would turn their backs on clear promises to protect Georges Bank and take a huge risk on oil or gas rigs there just for the glimmer of hope of what they may glean in royalties many years later.”

In the United States, President Barack Obama recently named Georges Bank off limits to oil and gas development.

Darryl Dexter-NB Business Journal

At the core of Nova Scotia's Renewable Electricity Plan is a desire to shed the province's dependence on fossil fuels
Published Saturday April 24th, 2010

"We can't continue to be hostage to international fossil fuel prices and markets that are driven by speculation, natural disasters and other things beyond our control," said Premier Darrell Dexter on Friday.

So, the plan aims to move the province away from electricity generated from imported coal, and instead encourage wind and tidal power projects.

Overall, the plan calls for 40 per cent of the province's electricity to come from renewable sources by 2020.

In the shorter-term, 25 per cent of electricity will be drawn from renewable sources by 2015.

"Together these standards make Nova Scotia one of the most progressive energy jurisdictions in the world," Dexter said, noting the plan will increase electricity bills in the province by one to two per cent annually.

Among the plan's other highlights:

* Equal participation between Nova Scotia Power (the main utility) and independent producers for medium and large-size projects.

* A new authority, the Renewable Electricity Administrator, to judge proposed projects and oversee the competitive bidding process.

* A fixed price, or feed-in tariff, for renewable power, to encourage community-based projects. A fixed price, says the government, will allow long-term planning, which will persuade municipalities and communities to produce their own renewable power.

* Enhanced "net metering", which credits consumers for the energy they produce from small wind, solar and other renewable generators.

* Fixed prices for small-scale tidal projects, if further development proves safe.

* The province will encourage the use of natural gas to fill the power supply when wind power is not readily available.

* Projection of $1.5 billion in green power investments.

Source: Quentin Casey

On at Council

Council AgendaMeeting DateApril 26, 2010Meeting LocationMunicipal Council ChambersCall to OrderWarden Jim ThurberReading of Mission StatementWarden Jim ThurberPause to Seek GuidanceWarden Jim ThurberDocumentsSubject AreaApproval of the AgendaAdditions/DeletionsCouncilStaffSpecial PresentationsPresentations& HearingsMike Gushue, ADEDA 2010/2011Business PlanMinutesApproval/AmendmentsMarch 22, 2010
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Page 2
Council AgendaBusinessArising from Minutes1.2.Deputy Warden MacAlpineCouncillor GregoryCouncillor AmeroCouncillor AdamsWarden ThurberNew Business# 1New Weymouth LibraryRecommendation from BuildingCommittee for name # 2Bay of FundyDiscovery Centre AssociationBalancing Rock Trail-Signage # 3Planning AdvisoryCommitteePatricia MacConnell Application# 4Plympton & Gilberts Cove Fire DepartmentGuarantee of $ 100,000 loan fromBNS to pay off existing loans and purchase used truck# 5Trinity AnglicanChurchFunding request for help withsummer student wages# 6Wharf Rat RallyFunding Request $ 5,000
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Council AgendaAdministrationCAO ReportMeeting UpdatesProject UpdatesPayables- March, 2010$ 658,161.71Financial ReportMarch 31, 2010 UnauditedCorrespondence1.Minister of HealthEmergency Care Report2.Mary McCarthyCarol MahtabCopy of Letter to EnvironmentAssessment Officer, NaturalResources3.Evelyn HaydenAshraf MahtabCopy of Letter to Minister OfEnvironment4.5.
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Page 4
Council AgendaCouncil Committees1.COTWFirst Reading of Amendment toTax Exemption By-law addingNova Scotia Bird Sanctuary &Trust property (Peter’s Island)2.By-law &PolicyAdvisory Committees# 1 REMOManagementPlanningCommitteeWarden Thurber/Deputy Warden MacAlpine# 2 Heritage AdvisoryCommitteeCouncillor AmeroCouncillor Adams# 3 PlanningAdvisoryCommitteeWarden ThurberDeputy Warden MacAlpineCouncillor Gregory# 4 Police AdvisoryCommitteeCouncillor GregoryCouncillor AmeroCouncillor AdamsMinutes January 12, 2010Share the Road ProgramResignation of Wendell Gregoryfrom Police Advisory Committee# 5 Tri CountyHousingAuthorityR Fitzgerald
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Council AgendaRegional/JointCommittees# 1Airport WorkingGroupDeputy Warden MacAlpineCouncillor AdamsMeeting scheduled for May 5# 2Annapolis DigbyEconomic DevelopmentAgencyWarden Thurber Minutes March 2010Managing Director Report#3Digby Annapolis DevelopmentCorpWarden ThurberCouncillor AmeroApril meeting postponed until May#4Digby AreaLearningAssociationCouncillor Adams#5Digby AreaTourismAssociationCouncillor GregoryUpdate #6Digby AreaRecreation CommitteeCouncillor GregoryCouncillor Amero#7Digby HarbourPort AssociationCouncillor Gregory#8FundywebBroadbandDeputy Warden MacAlpine Councillor AmeroMinutes March 12, 2010Meeting held April 15th# 9IndustrialCommissionDeputy WardenMacAlpine Councillor AmeroApril meeting postponed# 10 Kings Transit AuthorityCouncillor AmeroApril Board Package# 11 Senior SafetyCommitteeCouncillor Adams Councillor Gregory# 12 Tideview TerraceCouncillor GregoryWarden Thurber & Councillor Adams # 13 Waste CheckDeputy Warden MacAlpineCouncillor GregoryNo meeting in April# 14 Western Counties Regional LibraryDeputy Warden MacAlpine
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Council AgendaCouncil ReportsWarden ThurberDeputy WardenMacAlpineCouncillor GregoryCouncillorAmeroCouncillor AdamsNotice of MotionIn CameraSurplus PropertyAdjournment

Plant Sale Fundraiser

Plant sale Fundraiser
Flora Doehler | April 23, 2010 at 11:06 pm Perennial Plant Sale

$2 to $5
The Bear River Insight Meditation Group is raising funds through the sale of a variety of perennials including this vibrant orange-red-yellow lily.



Actual photo of the lilies for sale.

Many deep orange-red lilies are available.


Potted plants are available on a first-come, first-served basis at

6709 Sissiboo Road, Bear River.

Watch for the table at the roadside.

Eastport also Westport Tides

23
Apr
Tidal Power: Generating Megawatts Like Clockwork
Posted by Big Gav in ocean energy, tidal power

The New York Times has a look at the past and future of tidal power in Maine - Generating Megawatts Like Clockwork.


WHEN Christopher R. Sauer stands before the swirling waters of the Western Passage and describes his company’s alternative energy vision, he doesn’t see an army of wind turbines or banks of solar cells.

In fact, Mr. Sauer sees nothing at all that could block his view of Canada, just across the channel. For if his plans come to fruition, an array of turbines will be operating out of sight, deep under the water, cranking out power to a substation on shore.

His company, Ocean Renewable Power, is one of a number of start-ups trying to develop tidal energy — water-powered turbines that spin in the current as the tides come and go, turning generators to make electricity that is clean and, they hope, reasonably priced.

“We’re not going to beat out the old coal plants in the Ohio Valley,” said Mr. Sauer, who has decades of experience developing co-generation plants and other power projects. “But we will be competitive with any new power source, including fossil fuels.”

That’s an ambitious goal, but Mr. Sauer, the company’s president and chief executive, has at least gravity and the earth’s rotational energy on his side.

Tides come and go twice a day everywhere around the globe. In places like Eastport — a former sardine capital at the mouth of the Bay of Fundy that is surrounded by deep channels like the Western Passage — tidal power makes the most sense, at least for the moment.

Here the tides are very high and the current strong, reaching about 6 knots, or 7 miles per hour, at peak flows four times a day. “We’ve got the best tidal current on the East Coast,” Mr. Sauer said.

Tidal power is not a new idea. A few tidal generating stations are already operating around the world, including one in France that is more than four decades old. But they represent an older approach, one that employs barrages, or dams, to hold back the high tide. The water is then released through turbines, like a conventional hydroelectric plant, when the tide goes out.

Eastport itself was the site of an elaborate and enormous barrage project, proposed in the 1930s during the administration of Franklin D. Roosevelt, who knew of the great tides here, having spent many summers on Campobello Island nearby. The project, the East Coast’s answer to Hoover Dam, was abandoned after a year.

NS Energy from Winnepeg Free Press

Winnipeg Free Press

Nova Scotia says it's setting most aggressive renewable power targets in Canada
By: Michael Macdonald, THE CANADIAN PRESS

23/04/2010 6:32 PM

PICTOU, N.S. - It may be Canada's second-smallest province, but Nova Scotia is planning to become a green giant when it comes to renewable energy.

The province's NDP government introduced a bold plan Friday that commits the province to getting 40 per cent of its electricity from renewable resources by 2020.

Premier Darrell Dexter said the plan is one of the most aggressive in North America in terms of growing the green energy sector.

"This is the transformation of a province that currently has an electricity supply that's based almost 90 per cent on fossil fuels," he said, referring to the fact Nova Scotia gets most of its energy from coal-fired generating plants.

"We will increase the amount of renewable energy by four-fold by 2020."

California, a green leader in the United States, has committed to getting only 33 per cent of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.

But the premier was quick to note that Nova Scotia can't compare itself with provinces like Quebec, Manitoba and British Columbia, where hydroelectric dams already provide more than 80 per cent of each province's electricity.

Still, Nova Scotia has set a significant challenge for itself. Today only 11 per cent of its electricity comes from renewable sources.

"We are so heavily dependent on fossil fuels that, if we do not make the conversion, we run the real risk ... that our economy will become uncompetitive (and) that ordinary homeowners will see rapidly increasing prices of electricity," Dexter said.

Electricity rates have already jumped 30 per cent in the past five years in Nova Scotia.

Standing atop Dalhousie Mountain in northern Nova Scotia, surrounded by 34 huge wind turbines, the premier said the plan will create hundreds of jobs, but it requires about $1.5 billion in investment from the public and private sector.

Government sources also confirmed the province will need a new transmission line to New Brunswick.

To be sure, the green plan won't come cheap.

Consumers can expect to pay between $10 and $20 more for electricity every year between now and 2015, officials said during a technical briefing. There were no cost estimates beyond that date.

The province has said it wants to get at least 25 per cent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2015, which the NDP government says it will now enshrine in legislation.

"Consumers can look forward to more stable electricity prices and a more secure supply of energy," Dexter told a crowd of about 100 who gathered in the shadow of a massive turbine that whirred in the background.

The Pictou County wind farm, the largest in Nova Scotia, was completed last year at a cost of $130 million. At its peak, the RMSenergy LP site can supply about 17,000 homes with 51 megawatts of electricity.

The province's plan is calling for an additional 300 megawatts of electricity, most of that coming from privately owned Nova Scotia Power Inc. That's enough power to feed 500,000 homes.

Reuben Burge, president of the RMSenergy, said the plan sets a high target but that doesn't bother him.

"With a plan in place, it gives us something to work toward," he said.

By 2020, the province expects wind farms will become Nova Scotia's single-largest source of renewable energy. But the province is also looking to boost investment in tidal power in the Bay of Fundy, while enhancing other sources.

Other initiatives include:

-encouraging community-based electricity projects by offering a fixed price for power at a rate that will help cover costs and provide a small profit;

-expanding the use of net-metering, which credits consumers for the energy they produce from wind, solar and other renewable sources;

-putting a cap on the use biomass, which involves the burning of wood waste from the forestry industry;

-and encouraging the use of locally produced natural gas.

Public Inquiry: Wind turbines, nature and landscape

from the BBC news

Matlock Moor wind farm plan rejected

The planned turbines would have been up to 125m (410ft) high
Plans to build a wind farm in Derbyshire have been rejected following a public inquiry into the scheme.

West Coast Energy wanted to build five wind turbines up to 125m (410 ft) high on Matlock Moor.

But the Planning Inspector ruled the planned turbines would "create a major adverse change" to the local landscape and wildlife.

Both North East Derbyshire District Council and the Derbyshire Dales District Council opposed the plans.

Some residents had objected to the turbines, three of which were proposed within north-east Derbyshire and two within Derbyshire Dales.

Opponents argued they would be unsightly and noisy.

'Environmental benefits'

Planning Inspector Ruth MacKenzie, said: "From certain viewpoints, I consider that the five turbines would create a major adverse change in a highly sensitive landscape.

"In reaching this decision, I have taken into account all other matters raised, but none is sufficient to outweigh the considerations that have led me to my conclusion that both appeals should be dismissed and planning permission refused."

West Coast Energy said it was disappointed with the decision.

In a statement, the company said: "This development would have provided significant environmental and economic benefits and would have made a major contribution to renewable energy generation in Derbyshire and the East Midlands.

"We are still of the opinion that Matlock Moor is an appropriate location for renewable energy generation and we will be examining the decision of the inspector in order to review our future options."

Washington Post Opinion

By Robert Bryce
Sunday, April 25, 2010

Americans are being inundated with claims about renewable and alternative energy. Advocates for these technologies say that if we jettison fossil fuels, we'll breathe easier, stop global warming and revolutionize our economy. Yes, "green" energy has great emotional and political appeal. But before we wrap all our hopes -- and subsidies -- in it, let's take a hard look at some common misconceptions about what "green" means.

This Story
Myths about green energy
Sparking an energy revolution
1. Solar and wind power are the greenest of them all.


Unfortunately, solar and wind technologies require huge amounts of land to deliver relatively small amounts of energy, disrupting natural habitats. Even an aging natural gas well producing 60,000 cubic feet per day generates more than 20 times the watts per square meter of a wind turbine. A nuclear power plant cranks out about 56 watts per square meter, eight times as much as is derived from solar photovoltaic installations. The real estate that wind and solar energy demand led the Nature Conservancy to issue a report last year critical of "energy sprawl," including tens of thousands of miles of high-voltage transmission lines needed to carry electricity from wind and solar installations to distant cities.

Nor does wind energy substantially reduce CO2 emissions. Since the wind doesn't always blow, utilities must use gas- or coal-fired generators to offset wind's unreliability. The result is minimal -- or no -- carbon dioxide reduction.

Denmark, the poster child for wind energy boosters, more than doubled its production of wind energy between 1999 and 2007. Yet data from Energinet.dk, the operator of Denmark's natural gas and electricity grids, show that carbon dioxide emissions from electricity generation in 2007 were at about the same level as they were back in 1990, before the country began its frenzied construction of turbines. Denmark has done a good job of keeping its overall carbon dioxide emissions flat, but that is in large part because of near-zero population growth and exorbitant energy taxes, not wind energy. And through 2017, the Danes foresee no decrease in carbon dioxide emissions from electricity generation.

A Whale's Tail of Good News

Right whales off Block Island largest pod ever counted there
By Judy Benson

Publication: The Day

Published 04/24/2010 12:00 AMUpdated 04/24/2010 12:57 AM NOAAThis photo from the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration's Northeast Fisheries Science Center shows a mother North Atlantic right whale with her calf, submerged left, in Block Island Sound off the coast of Rhode Island, part of a record number of the rare mammals counted during an aerial survey. NOAAThis photo from the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration's Northeast Fisheries Science Center shows a mother North Atlantic right whale with her calf, submerged left, in Block Island Sound off the coast of Rhode Island, part of a record number of the rare mammals counted during an aerial survey.
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NOAA records about 100 animals, says gathering in waters leading to Martha's Vineyard highly unusual

One quarter of the world's entire population of right whales is congregating in waters between Block Island and Martha's Vineyard.



That's an unusually large grouping in an area rarely visited by these endangered mammals.



Among the group of about 100 whales are at least two mothers with calves, David Gouveia, marine mammal program coordinator for the northeastern regional office of the National Marine Fisheries Service, said Friday. There are only about 400 right whales left in the world, he noted, and they normally travel in pods of about 15 to 40 each.



This is the largest group of whales ever recorded in these waters, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the parent agency of the marine fisheries service.



The whales are heading north on their annual spring migration, but they normally stay in waters further to the east, off Nantucket and Cape Cod, Gouveia said. There are no predictions about how long they will stay in the Block Island-Martha's Vineyard area.



"It could be a week, it could be a day," Gouveia said.



To protect the whales from being struck by passing vessels, a slow-speed zone has been established in the area through May 5. Vessels 65 feet and larger are asked to travel at no more than 10 knots, or about 11.5 mph, in the waters in a defined region between the two islands.



"They're close to one of the major shipping lanes into New York City," Gouveia said of the whales.



So-called ship strikes are a major cause of injury and mortality for right whales, which can measure 55 feet in length and weigh 70 tons. In 2008, NOAA established a system of notifying mariners where right whales are traveling and setting temporary speed restrictions in those areas, as well as seasonal speed restrictions along their typical migration path. NOAA, the Coast Guard and other groups are doing aerial monitoring to keep track of whales.



The whales are migrating north along the East Coast after calving in waters off Georgia this winter. They follow currents carrying the tiny marine zooplankton called copepods, feeding as they travel, Gouveia said.



"The currents must have dipped into that area" between Block Island and Martha's Vineyard, he said. "That's why the whales are there."



After they leave the area, they will continue north, stopping to feed along the way, until they reach the Bay of Fundy off Nova Scotia in the fall.



j.benson@theday.com

An Earth Day Quiz from Yesterday

Earth Day Energy Quiz
April 22, 2010

How much do you know about energy in Canada? Take the test and check back for the answers on Monday.

The most fuel-efficient car sold in Canada today is
a) a hybrid
b) a clean diesel
c) a three-cylinder conventional gasoline-powered internal combustion powered Smart car
d) a plug-in electric

Which provides more electricity in Canada?
a) wind power
b) solar power
c) biomass thermal power
d) tidal power

What uses the most energy in a typical Canadian house?
a) space heating
b) water heating
c) appliances
d) lighting

In terms of daylight hours per year, where is the best place in Canada to install solar panels?
a) Calgary, Alberta
b) Alert, Nunavut
c) Leamington, Ontario
d) Churchill Manitoba

Tidal power is unique to which province?
a) British Columbia
b) Manitoba
c) New Brunswick
d) Nova Scotia

Which province or territory generates the largest portion of electricity from wind power?
a) Yukon
b) Alberta
c) Saskatchewan
d) Prince Edward Island

In Canada, RSI Values relate to:
a) effectiveness of home insulation
b) radioactivity of nuclear waste
c) air resistance across the rotors of a wind turbine
d) refractive qualities of solar panels

In which province is it least advantageous to generate your own electricity?
a) Alberta
b) Ontario
c) British Columbia
d) New Brunswick

How much more efficient than a conventional incandescent light bulb is a compact fluorescent light bulb?
a) 65%
b) 75%
c) 85%
d) 90%

Which of these vehicles doesn’t come in a hybrid version?
a) car
b) pickup truck
c) motorcycle
d) transit bus

Destination SW Nova AGM, Conference

Destination Southwest Nova Association
AGM & Conference, May 12 & 13, 2010
White Point Beach Resort
DSWNA Board of Directors Call for Nominations!


Conference Program & Schedule
Registration Form - deadline Friday May 7th
Southwest Award Nominations
Award Criteria
Nomination Form
DSWNA By-laws
Minutes from 2009 AGM
Silent Auction

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AGM & Conference
This years Annual General Meeting and Conference will take place on May 12 & 13 at White Point Beach Resort. The conference program features a municipal tourism summit, marketing update and Nova Scotia partnership opportunities as well as several educational sessions such as Events Nova Scotia, Canada Games 2011, Adventures in Taste, UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, New7Wonders of Nature and more. The Annual General Meeting will be important to attend as there will be proposed changes to Association By-laws and the 2010/2011 DSWNA Board of Directors will be selected. To register for the DSWNA AGM and Conference please complete and return this form by Friday May 7th.


Southwest Award Nominations

Nominate a deserving business in Southwest Nova Scotia for an award that will be presented on Wednesday May 12th, 2010 as part of the DSWNA Annual Meeting and Conference. Award categories include: Regional Awards, Partnership Award and Sustainable Practices Award. Submit your nomination form by Friday April 30th, click here for the award criteria.

Silent Auction
As part of the conference, we will be holding an silent auction and a live auction; anyone wishing to donate an item(s), please contact the office at (902) 634-8844 or email jjoudrey@destinationsouthwestnova.com or item submission by May 7th, 2010.



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Call for Nominations, 2010/2011 DSWNA Board of Directors

The nominating committee is seeking Nomination/Applications for partners to serve on the Volunteer Board of Directors for Destination Southwest Nova Association. The Board of Directors criteria and information is listed here for your information.

Additional inquires and comments should be made directly to the Nominating Chair person, Rick Welsford at nominations@destinationsouthwestnova.com or by fax at (902) 634-8056. Deadline for nominations is Friday May 7th.

Pot Luck Supper

Rossway Baptist Church Friday April 30th. Bring your favourite dish and a neighbour or friend!

Fire-Fighter's Breakfast and Sale

Fire-sale and Firefighter's Breakfast
Flora Doehler | April 20, 2010 at 9:10 am | Categories: Bear River Fire Department, fundraiser | URL: http://wp.me/pfgTD-6E
SATURDAY, May 1, 20107 - 10 am Firefighter's Breakfast at Bear River Fire Hall.
New prices:Adults $7.00; 12 & under $3.50; 5 and under free. All proceeds for up-keep of hall.

--------------------------------------------

There will be a FLEA MARKET @ the Bear River Fire Hall
on Saturday May 15 from 9:00am to 1:00pm

Tables are $5.00

To book a table phone 467-0206 or 467-3450
Sponsored by the Ladies Auxiliary of the Bear River Fire Department.

Earth Day is Tomorrow!

Lyrid Meteor Shower to Peak on Earth Day
news.nationalgeographic.com

For the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, nature will be setting off some fireworks, with the peak of the annual Lyrid meteor shower arriving on April 22.
Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve In Southwest Nova's dark sky, you'll be able to see Earth Day's April 22nd "natural" fireworks with a mini meteor shower ! http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2010/04/100419-lyrids-meteor-shower-earth-day-peak/

ADEDA News

BAY OF FUNDY RETURNS TO NATIONAL SPOTLIGHT
An official visit to Canada by Zurich-based New7Wonders Foundation has reignited national interest in the global competition, and focussed the spotlight on the country’s single contender — the magnificent Bay of Fundy. Spearheaded by Terri McCulloch, manager of the Bay of Fundy Tourism partnership, the VIP’s visit became a hot media topic.

PROVINCE INVESTS $2M IN NSCC
More Nova Scotia students will benefit from training thanks to a $2-million provincial investment in high-demand programs at the Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC). For those interested in a course of study that virtually guarantees 100% employment immediately upon graduation, the GIS programs offered — in our own backyard at the Annapolis Valley campus — is the way to go.

AIM TO IMPROVE YOUR INTERNET MARKETING SKILLS
Internet marketing know-how is crucial to succeeding in today’s marketplace. Without it, your competitors get all the attention — and customers. As a sponsor of the Atlantic Internet Marketing Conference, NSBI is pleased to offer a 40% discount on the registration fee to the first 25 companies to simply make the request!

ENGAGE IN THE SOCIAL ECONOMY
The Canadian Social Economy Hub and the Steering Committee for the 2010 National Summit on a People-Centred Economy are offering a series of telelearning sessions. These sessions are intended to generate engagement and learning about key issues within Canada, to share research results, and to build momentum leading up to a national summit in Ottawa. Three important topics are to be covered between April 21 and May 12: Procurement, Enterprise Development, and Partnership & Movement Building.

FARM MARKETS CROPPING UP ALL OVER THE PLACE
The coming market season is shaping up to be a busy one, indeed. The Digby market has opened at a new location, while Bear River has announced that its new Farmers & Artists Market will open on June 13 — on the waterfront, no less! Spanning Middleton to Weymouth, here’s a map all seven farm market locations, with lots of opportunities for all kinds of vendors to participate.

Annapolis Valley Health is holding an important community forum at ABCC on April 26 that you won’t want to miss. And for those of you in fundraising mode, this one-day workshop in Halifax might just be the key to your success. Otherwise, don’t forget to get in on the Creative Rural Economy workshop on April 29 — there might still be room for one more!

MVA in Digby County

Source: The Chronicle Herald

NOVA SCOTIA - Seven people were taken to hospital after a two-vehicle crash near Bear River on Friday.

Just before 3:30 p.m., RCMP received a 911 call about a two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Purdy and Waldeck Line roads in the Annapolis County.

"All seven were transported to hospital, six had non-life-threatening injuries, but one was more serious, but as of now we don’t have an update on the exact status of that one individual," RCMP spokeswoman Sgt. Brigdit Leger said early Friday evening.

One of the people injured was a young girl. Also hurt were two men and four women.

One of the vehicles contained three people while the second had four.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

Four ambulances with eight paramedics responded to the scene.

"We transported five to the Digby General Hospital and two to the Annapolis hospital," Paul Maynard, an Emergency Health Services spokesman, said.

LifeFlight was expected to fly one of the females — the most seriously injured — from Digby General to a Kentville hospital, he said.

The road was not closed down as a traffic analyst investigated, Leger said.

"My understanding is that it was sunny and clear at the time," she said.

The ages of the injured people were not available.

wind and nuclear

Wind can't replace nuclear
Posted By
Posted 1 day ago


Editor:


Gideon Forman's letter urging us "to phase out conventional power and switch over to renewables, including wind turbines", demonstrates lack of technical understanding. It is not possible to replace coal or nuclear plants with wind turbines. They average only about 27% output in Ontario. Without base load plants such as nuclear, hydro, coal or gas we would all be without power the majority of the time no matter how many wind turbines or solar plants were built. The wind simply doesn't blow all the time at the required velocity and the sun often doesn't shine. Ontario is now constructing natural gas plants to back up renewables and it is those gas plants that will replace coal, not wind or solar.

Moreover, the Suzuki Foundation cautions: Unlike coal, "emissions of fine particulates from natural gas-fired power plants are dangerously small. They have the greatest impact on human health" because they "end up deep in the lungs. . . . Many studies have found no safe limit for exposure".

The Ontario Power Authority (OPA) plan of October, 2007 concluded that adding any substantial amount of wind power to Ontario's grid "would result in higher greenhouse gas emissions because of the need to install back-up gas plants".

Studies by the Irish Electricity Supply Board and the German Institute for Economic Research both confirm that CO2 emissions actually increase as a direct result of having to cope with the variation of wind-power output.

So what will the wind turbines and solar panels accomplish? Our government has contracted to pay 4 to 20 times above market rates for "green" electricity. Ratepayers will also pay for the gas to back up the wind as well as over $5 billion for new transmission lines. Our hydro bills are beginning to skyrocket. They have already risen 16% since November 2008. Two more rises of 9.6% and 13.3% have been applied for. The new HST and smart metres are estimated to cost us another 20%. And a new renewable energy program tax of $4 per year starts April 15. When electricity prices increase sharply, our province becomes less competitive. Manufacturers relocate. Unemployment causes the tax base to shrink.

The OPA report noted that it was more cost effective to develop hydro generation north of Sudbury rather than developing additional wind generation in southern or northern Ontario. Instead of listening to his expert advisors, former Energy Minister George Smitherman took control of the OPA and demanded inflated compensation for renewable electricity producers. He then abruptly resigned.

Keith Stelling Central Bruce-Grey Wind Concerns Ontario

Wind Resistance

Wind resistance
Wyoming is ideally situated to capitalize on wind energy, but not everyone wants to see that potential tapped.

By Jonathan Thompson
High Country News
Posted: 04/18/2010 01:00:00 AM MDT


I first see the turbines as I speed along Interstate 25 near Glenrock, Wyo. The windmills look tiny, sprouting from the flat beige plain like sunflowers in a neglected field.

Wanting a closer look, I take the Glenrock exit, meander through town, cross the North Platte River and soon discover that the landscape is not flat at all. It undulates, sometimes steeply. Railroad tracks run along the low point in a furrow, an age-streaked oil tank nearby. A massive power plant sits by the river; a trailer, its roof weighted down with tires, hunkers into the hillside.

Up another hill, there are the turbines again, but this time they rise up from sage and grass like giants. Their rotors spin neurotically, as though they are desperately waving me away — or warning, perhaps, that all is not what it seems.

Maybe Don Quixote wasn't crazy after all.

Wyoming may be the best place in the U.S. to generate electricity from wind. Thanks to a dip in the Continental Divide as it wends through the state, it has about half of all the top-quality wind in the country. A turbine here can crank out as much as 30 percent more juice than one in, say, Texas or California.

With a population of just half a million, the state has plenty of uninhabited spaces for turbines, and it is famous for welcoming energy development. So companies have stampeded into the Cowboy State, reaching for every gust they can. Wyoming's governor compares the frenzy to a gold rush.

That rush, however, is faltering. Today, Wyoming has just 1,100 megawatts of wind capacity, one-eighth of what Texas has. Facing regulatory and political uncertainty, at least one wind-farm proposal has been yanked off the table, and the future of others is in doubt. Legislators, wildlife officials and the governor's office have sent out increasingly mixed messages about the wind rush.

It is, indeed, confusing. Because most of the objections to wind farms cite environmental problems, it might appear that Wyoming has finally gone green — standing up to energy developers in hopes of preserving its wild lands. And many environmentalists do see wind as yet another "clean" energy source with a dark side, like hydroelectric dams or coalbed methane, which has transformed swaths of the state into drill-rig pin cushions.

Much of the resistance to wind actually comes from the fossil fuel industry and the politics it bankrolls. Wyoming is the largest coal producer in the nation and the third-largest producer of natural gas. Severance taxes and royalties from these industries keep the state's government, schools and other services afloat. In a sometimes convoluted way, wind threatens that old-school energy dynamic.

At an August symposium on wind energy at the University of Wyoming in Laramie, Aaron Clark, an adviser to the governor, put it candidly: "We can't let wind development hurt the state's revenue stream from extractive minerals."

The conflict manifests itself in two disparate characters: the oil-baron scion of one of Wyoming's most influential families, and a chicken-sized bird that may soon be listed as endangered. * * *

On a dark October afternoon, some 50 people converge on the Converse County Courthouse's community room. Nearly everyone is in jeans and cowboy boots, and at least half wear baseball caps, neckerchiefs and bulky Carhartt vests.

They're here because the county planning commission is considering a moratorium on industrial development in the mountainous part of the county in order to give it time to consider implementing wind-targeted zoning. The fledgling but already sizable Northern Laramie Range Alliance (NLRA) is pushing the moratorium. The group sprang up to prevent "industrialization of the high country" by the wind industry.

The moratorium shouldn't stand a chance. Converse County is one of a handful of Wyoming counties that have no zoning whatsoever, and it has enthusiastically shot down proposals to regulate development in the past. Given the look of tonight's crowd, this attempt at government interference will suffer the same fate. But the wind has dramatically muddled things in these parts.

Grizzled ranchers who likely would spit before they say the word "environmentalist" stand up and tout the benefits of green energy. Classic anti-government conservatives ask the county to save their beloved mountains from energy development. An employee of one of the biggest coal mines in the nation cautions against letting wind turbines go unregulated, the way coalbed methane did.

Then, a tall, lean man stands up to speak. For about nine minutes, he holds the floor with pointed comments, sprinkled with humor. "The second most egregious task of government is the denial of the use of a person's private property," he says. "The first is when Sheriff Becker over there takes away your personal liberty." Laughter. He worries about an influx of workers infecting the area with Gillette Syndrome — the social toll that a boom can take on the local community. Property values will plummet, he warns. The county should "take a deep breath and adopt the moratorium, because there are a lot of impacts that come with major development." He is a dyed-in-the wool Wyoming oilman, and his name is Diemer True.

True's father, H.A. "Dave" True, started his own drilling company in 1954. Today, True Companies is an energy, banking and ranching conglomerate, with everything from a pipeline company and a trucking business to slaughterhouses, not to mention a big chunk of Wyoming land. According to LandReport.com, the Trues hold more than 255,000 acres, putting them among the top 30 landowners in the nation.

Diemer True went to work for the family company after he graduated from college, became a partner in True Companies a few years later, and in 1972, was elected to the Wyoming House of Representatives. He has lived at the nexus of Wyoming politics and petroleum ever since.

These days, True can often be found in the headquarters of Diamond Oil, which he started with his sons a few years ago.

Nothing in his manner indicates the enormous amount of power he wields in this state — and in the nation. When he urges the government to save his beloved mountains from industrialization, you can almost forget that, up until now, True was firmly on the other side, aggressively attacking regulations intended to keep public lands from being, well, industrialized.

True served as chairman of the Independent Petroleum Association of America, a position from which he regularly urged the federal government to increase access to oil and gas development on public lands.

True was part of the Bush/Cheney energy task force, in which industry leaders influenced the administration's policies. As recently as 2006, he served on the board of Frontiers of Freedom, a neo-conservative, hard-right organization that calls itself the "antithesis of the green movement," fights against the Endangered Species Act and has recently taken up the torch of global warming skepticism.

True also served on the board of the Mountain States Legal Foundation, a Denver-based property-rights, anti-environmental regulation group. * * *

Bob Whitton is a mustached, retired Air Force fighter pilot-turned- rancher who raises bulls on a small spread between Chugwater and Wheatland, across I-25 from the Laramie Range. There is broad support for wind development down here, and Whitton chairs the Renewable Energy Alliance of Landowners (REAL), a group with some 300 members who are fighting for the right to put turbines on their collective 800,000 acres of southeastern Wyoming. In that role, and as a private-property rights advocate in general, Whitton argued against True and his colleagues at the Converse County meeting.

Wind, it turns out, can make a rancher lots of money. Wind developers typically pay a signing bonus, rent during the testing phase and a payment during construction. When the turbines start kicking out juice, the cash flows regularly, for years to come: A turbine can net a landowner $4,000 for every megawatt per year. That could amount to as much as $55,000 per year per section (640 acres). Wyoming ranches are often measured by thousands of acres, so some landowners stand to make hundreds of thousands of dollars per year.

That might keep cash-strapped ranchers from selling out to real estate developers or billionaire hobby ranchers, who sometimes close their land to hunters, says Whitton. "Would you rather see a wind turbine or a subdivision?" he asks.

The economic crisis has made it tough for wind developers to get financing. The Wyoming state Legislature this spring levied a generation tax on wind power, in addition to allowing a sales tax exemption on wind farms to "sunset" in 2011.

Combined with current property taxes, that could give Wyoming one of the least-favorable tax structures for wind farms among surrounding states. Every county in wind country, meanwhile, is grappling with its own level of rules, creating an uncertain regulatory environment for the industry.

But the biggest obstacle, by far, is lack of transmission capacity. "Most of the good sites [that have both strong wind and adequate transmission] have been leased and are off the market," says Brian Reilly of Whirlwind LLC, a Denver- and Casper-based wind firm with several Wyoming projects in the works.

The big markets for wind are in states with renewable portfolio standards, such as California and Colorado. (Wyoming has no renewable mandate.) So in order to get new wind power to those who want it, new transmission lines must be built from Wyoming to the south and west. "If we don't get transmission solved, we don't get any of the benefits," says Whitton. "Nothing happens."

* * *

In October, Democratic Gov. Dave Freudenthal told an energy conference that, in Wyoming, some folks who have made their money off gas and oil drilling and pipelines have "developed a sense of virtue about not destroying the environment," when faced with wind power. "They may be late conversions," he added, "but they are singing with great vigor in the front row of the choir."

Most likely, he was talking about Diemer True. True joined the choir last year, when he discovered that Rocky Mountain Power planned to string its 230-kilovolt transmission line right along La Prele Creek, where he has two ranches. Then, Wasatch Wind asked True and his neighbors to lease their land for turbines. True, nearby landowner (and World Bank vice president) Kenneth G. Lay and some of their neighbors held a meeting in Douglas in May 2009 to come up with a plan of action. Around 200 people showed up.

Now, the NLRA has some 600 members and, with its slick website, petition drives and well-oiled PR machine, it has gained enough clout to make traditional green groups jealous. Just months after the alliance formed, True took Rocky Mountain Power President Richard Walje up into the Laramie Range for a look around. As he basked in the quiet of the glades, pastures, aspens and ponderosas, Walje reportedly declared, "We can't build a power line here."

Rocky Mountain Power withdrew that route from consideration, moving it farther east — an unqualified victory for the group.

In its talk and actions, the NLRA and its members appear sincere; not only have they extended their reach beyond their backyards, but they're beginning — somewhat uncomfortably — to embrace a green attitude.

In October, the NLRA created the Northern Laramie Range Foundation to raise money to lease parcels of state land in the Laramie Range for recreational purposes. That will not only preclude wind development on those parcels, but it will also keep out other sorts of development — including oil and gas drilling.

True refuses to call himself an environmentalist: "I'd couch us as preservationists or conservationists."

* * *

Directly south of Rawlins, on a windswept mesa, Denver billionaire Philip Anschutz's company wants to build a 1,000-turbine wind farm on a patchwork of private and public lands. It will cover some 95,800 acres and generate 2,000 megawatts of power or more, equal to some of the biggest coal-fired power plants in the West. However, big sections of the farm overlap core sage grouse habitat.

The sage grouse was once plentiful across the sagebrush-covered West. As the sage was cleared for grazing, and later invaded by energy development and ranchettes, the bird's numbers plummeted. For the last five years, the prospect of the grouse being listed under the Endangered Species Act has loomed, something that could hit mining, ranching and energy here as hard as the spotted owl's listing hit timber in the Northwest. Wyoming has acted aggressively to put its own sage grouse conservation plan in place in hopes of averting a listing.

The state's strategy is simple: Find and map the parts of the state that are most critical to sage grouse, and protect these core areas, mostly through voluntary measures. The oil and gas companies have agreed to curtail activities in core areas — drilling is limited to one pad per section — or stay out of them altogether. In return, the state will streamline permitting and offer other incentives for drilling in non-core areas.

Because it wasn't much of a force — or a threat — when the core areas were drawn up, the wind industry was not involved. As a result, 23 percent of Wyoming's winds that are class 4 or higher — and about half or more of developable class 6 and 7 winds — are in core areas. And in July, the state put those winds off-limits by essentially banning big wind farms in core areas.

That has put the old-school energy in Wyoming at odds with the new. If wind development is allowed in core areas, it could undermine the integrity of the core-area strategy. That, in turn, could increase the likelihood of the feds listing sage grouse as endangered. And that would lead to stringent regulations for all the bird's habitat — including most of the current oil and gas fields and untapped reserves.

In Wyoming, there are two struggles. One is between the old school of energy and the new; the other pits the local view of energy against the global view. In the end, the failure to reconcile these dichotomies may be far more harmful to Wyoming's economy than any endangered species listing. More and more, the market is going to demand clean energy. Right now, however, Wyoming is not prepared to supply it.

The Converse County meeting ended with the planning commission voting to recommend a moratorium for the whole county. The county commissioners shot the moratorium down, but the NLRA continues its fight. And the struggle goes on.

On my way home, I stop at a place where the road nuzzles up against the wind farm's boundary. I slither through the fence and walk up to a turbine, until I'm directly beneath its blades.

The only sound is a low-pitched sort of watery sigh. The wind blows, the arms turn, and electrons flow through cables, down the tower, under the ground, and into the power lines where they'll join up with the coal-generated electrons 13 miles away. They flow into the bloodstream of the omnipotent, tentacled organism called the grid. Somewhere, someone flips a switch.

And there is light.

Jonathan Thompson is editor of High Country News. This article has been edited to fit. For the full version, go to www.hcn.org.

The Bay of Fundy is WONDERful

UNESCO Southwest Nova Biosphere Reserve An official visit to Canada by Zurich-based New7Wonders Foundation has reignited national interest in the global competition, and refocused the spotlight on the country’s single contender, the magnificent Bay of Fundy. Spearheaded by Terri McCulloch, manager of the Bay of Fundy Tourism partnership, the VIP visit was a hot media topic this week.

“It’s one thing to see pictures and read about Canada’s Bay of Fundy, it is quite another to experience the world’s highest tides and to walk the ocean’s floor at low tide," declared Jean-Paul de la Fuente, Director of the New7Wonders Foundation. "It is a worthy candidate that the whole of Canada should be proud of," he continued. "The Bay of Fundy has qualified through popular vote to become Canada’s sole national representative worldwide.”...

Workshops for Community Organizers

Full-day media training workshops for community organizers in four locations in Nova Scotia. Workshop Dates and Locations: Annapolis Royal Monday, Nov. 23 Check-in & Coffee 8:30 AM 9:00 AM-4:30 PM Annapolis Royal Firehall 5 Saint Anthony Street Annapolis Royal, NS Truro Wednesday, Nov. 25 Check-in & Coffee 8:30 AM 9:00 AM-4:30 PM Nova Scotia Agricultural College 40 Horseshoe Cr., Truro, NS (Jenkins Hall: Riverview Room) Halifax Tuesday, Nov. 24 Check-in & Coffee 8:30 AM 9:00 AM-4:30 PM Continuing Technical Education 5269 Morris Street Halifax, NS (Room 121A) Sydney Friday, Nov. 27 Check-in & Coffee 8:30 AM 9:00 AM-4:30 PM Southend Community Centre, 28 Hillview Ave., Sydney, NS (Woodill Room) Workshop Description: Working with media involves a variety of activities from creating a media kit, to developing and maintaining a communication plan, to building on-going relationships with mainstream and alternative media, to immediate tasks such as pitching stories to the media and interviewing. This one-day training session is ideal for individuals/organizations intending to do any outreach to media. The goal of this workshop is to acquaint participants with the functions of the news media and equip them with basic skills, which they can immediately apply to advancing education, publicity, and advocacy goals of their organizations.You’ll learn: the inner workings of the media – Who are the media, What do they do and why it matters; Leveraging media opportunities – How to place a story in the paper; How to prepare a media kit; Tools and techniques for communicating with media – The difference between an advisory, a press release, a PSA; and How to get your message across – Developing key messages that count. Workshop fees include nutrition breaks, lunch and a media toolkit binder of reference material and templates. Funding has been generously provided by Mountain Equipment Coop. Workshop Agenda: 8:30-9:00 AM – Registration 12:45-1:50 PM – Exercise: Create compelling materials 9:00-9:45 AM – Welcome, Introductions & The Nova Scotia Media Context 1:50-2:00 PM – Break 9:45-10:50 AM – Understanding the Media: The Basics of Media Relations and the Media Cycle 2:00-3:15 PM – Key Messages & Case Studies of successful media campaign 10:50-11:00 AM – Break 3:15-3:45 PM – Tamara’s Media Tips & Checklist 11:00-12:00 PM – Introduction to Media Materials & Preparing the Media Kit (Press release, advisory, PSA…) 3:45-4:15 PM- Sam’s Introduction to new media (Twitter, Facebook, & Blogging) 12:00-12:45 PM – Lunch 4:15-4:30 PM – Draw Prizes, Announcements & Evaluations Register now for the early bird rate. Space is limited. For more information and to register, please contact: Nova Scotia Environmental Network Address: 55 Willowbend Court, Halifax, NS, B3M 3L3 Phone: 902.454.6846 / FAX: 902.454.6841 Email: nsen@cen-rce.org / Website: www.nsen.ca Cut Please complete this form on both sides, detach and mail it together with the registration fee to the Nova Scotia Environmental Network (Early Bird: $40 NSEN members, $50 non-members) After Nov. 16th fee is $50/$60 Name Job Title/ Organization Address: Town/City Province Postal Code Work Phone Fax Email Choose your workshop date and location: Annapolis Royal Monday, Nov. 23 Halifax Tuesday, Nov. 24 Truro Weds. Nov. 25 Sydney Friday, Nov. 27  Food Allergies (please specify): Other Requirements (please specify): Media Training 101 Workshops
Workshop Presenters: Elizabeth Goldenshtein is a seasoned public and media relations professional with 12 years of combined journalism and communications experience with Optimum Cossette. Her media experience includes positions as a radio and TV news reporter and producer at two of Vancouver’s top-tier news outlets. Her communications experience includes three years as a corporate spokesperson – where she handled hundreds of media inquiries – and senior counsel in PR agencies in Toronto and Vancouver. As a coach in Optimum’s Media Training Program, Elizabeth develops media strategies based on a sound understanding of Canadian media and first-hand experience in interview techniques that will help clients communicate with passion, credibility, control and sincerity. Stephanie Nadalin brings more than five years of communications experience to Optimum. She leads and provides strategic direction on a number of corporate, retail and cause-related clients such as Metro Inc, Clean Air Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, Recycling Council of Ontario, Ontario Forestry Association and the government of Ontario. Stephanie’s experience as a provincial campaign and government communications advisor lends itself well to public relations. In the political arena, Stephanie authored and edited press releases from the offices of public officials, pitched story ideas to assignment editors and reporters, and coached public officials prior to media interviews and press conferences. Stephanie began her career with the Ontario government as a spokesperson and communications advisor to the Premier where she gained extensive experience in media relations, event planning, brand development, advertising and communications planning. Workshop Facilitators: Tamara Lorincz is the Executive Director of the Nova Scotia Environmental Network. Tamara has developed extensive media experience through her professional and volunteer work promoting progressive causes related to the environment, social justice, peace and women & children’s issues. She has been interviewed on the radio, in newspapers and on TV. She has published many letters to the editor and opinion pieces. She has been featured in the Globe & Mail, New York Times, CBC, CTV and CNN. She will share her media tips and strategies. Sam Juru is the Programs & Caucus Coordinator of the Nova Scotia Environmental Network. He came to Canada in 2001 from his native country, Zimbabwe. Sam’s training is in communications, facilitation and international development. He has been actively involved in working with various NGOs in Canada and overseas with Canadian international development agencies such as Canadian Crossroads International (CCI) and Atlantic Council for International Cooperation (ACIC). These international postings have been focused on designing and implementing communications strategic plans for community based organizations in different parts of Sub Saharan Africa. This work has included conducting media and public engagement trainings for professionals and volunteers in the NGO sector. Cut Are there any particular topics that you would like covered or questions that you would like answered by the presenters? Payment: registration fee includes participant media toolkit binder, nutrition breaks and lunch. Early Bird: $40 NSEN members, $50 non-members After Nov. 16: $50 NSEN members, $60 non-members Method of payment:  cheque  money order  cash * Please make cheque or money order payable to the Nova Scotia Environmental Network and fax (902-454-6841) or mail to: NSEN 55 Willowbend Court Halifax, NS B3M 3L3 Cancellation Policy: Cancellations for registrations received in writing by Nov. 25 will get a refund less a $15 administrative fee.

News from Avaaz

Save the oceans a huge win! The UK announced its plan to double the total global area of protected ocean with a massive new conservation zone bigger than Germany and Italy combined. In the public comment period before the decision, Avaaz members contributed more than 85% of the responses, urging a ban on commercial fishing and support for the island peoples' rights.1 It's a huge victory, and the Foreign Ministry cited the "over 221,000 responses co-ordinated by Avaaz... from 223 countries" in its announcement.

Elephants - with elephants at risk, 500,000 of us worldwide empowered the African Elephant Coalition with our support -- and, after a nail-biting close vote and final push with partners on the ground, won protection for elephants at a UN Endangered Species session. The head of the Species Survival Network said “the petition, no doubt, made a difference and helped achieve the right result for elephants everywhere."

Standing with Haiti - thousands of us contributed more than US$1.3 million for relief and recovery from the Haitian earthquake, helping outstanding local organizations provide life-saving food, shelter, and medical care for thousands of people, and powered a global push that secured $1 billion in debt relief for Haiti. (Watch the amazing video about our impact in the "Sources" section below).

Uganda - in an unprecedented show of public opposition to the proposed law that would sentence gay Ugandans to death, Avaaz worked with church leaders and human rights activists to deliver a 450,000-strong petition to the Speaker of Uganda's parliament in an hour-long meeting and a press conference that made headlines around the country and the world.

Parliament had been expected to begin debate in February -- but in the face of local and global pressure, Parliament still hasn't begun formal discussion. Some say the bill may be left to die in committee, potentially a quiet but extraordinary victory for human rights. Avaaz continues to work closely with allies to monitor the bill -- and stands ready to take action once more if it regains momentum.

Brazil anti-corruption - took a giant leap against political corruption in Brazil, adding Avaaz members' voices to a national push that will bring to a vote landmark legislation banning individuals convicted of serious crimes from standing for public office.

And much more!
launched a drive for a million-signature Citizen's Initiative in the EU to ensure genetically modified crop regulation
raised almost $700,000 for an intensive, long-term campaign to fight the "rape trade"--the sexual enslavement of women and girls around the world
pressed Chevron's CEO to clean up his company's toxic legacy in the Amazon
defended human rights and judicial independence in Spain in the face of three controversial lawsuits against judge Baltasar Garzón and a fierce political campaign to destroy his career
mobilized support for a just two-state solution in the Middle East and against settlement construction in East Jerusalem
stood for civility and genuine debate in Israeli media -- and in U.S. media coverage of Israel and Palestine
... the list goes on!
Through these campaigns, members of the Avaaz network--each of us--have made headlines, shifted policy, and changed lives. But in each of these campaigns, and on many other issues, the work continues.

Help shape our next steps. Since January, more than 50,000 people have answered an Avaaz survey on where to go next -- click here to add your views:

http://www.avaaz.org/april_2010_poll

Digby Variety Show

Digby
Auxiliary
Variety
Show
Date: Friday, May 7th
Time: 7:00pm
Location: Digby Community Theatre
(at Digby Regional High School)
Featuring...
And Much More!

NSCC gets money for more students

NS: NSCC gets $2M to target programs and skills in high demand
By Philip Croucher, Metro Halifax

Source: Metro Halifax, April 14, 2010

[HALIFAX, NS] — Joan McArthur-Blair refers to it as a beginning step.

The president of the Nova Scotia Community College was on hand at the school’s Institute of Technology campus in north-end Halifax yesterday as Premier Darrell Dexter announced his government was adding 250 spaces for students at NSCC campuses across the province at a cost of $2 million.

“We have about 2,500 Nova Scotians currently on our wait list — and so this is incremental,” McArthur-Blair said after the noontime announcement. “It’s a beginning to look at the ways in which we dissolve that wait list and how we understand about getting more and more Nova Scotians into the college.”

No definitive decision has been made on where the new spaces for students will go, but McArthur-Blair said it would be for “high-demand areas” of employment.

She said those fields include the health sector, human-service areas, and trades and technology.

To help bring this point home, yesterday’s announcement attended by Dexter and Education Minister Marilyn More took place inside an IT classroom for the electronic engineer technicians program.

“It’s really targeted programming at those high-demand areas where this is both the student demand and the employer demand,” McArthur-Blair said.”

Family Files Complaint with PSC

Family files wind farm complaint
Story Discussion Font Size: Default font size Larger font size By Megan Sheridan, Capital Newspapers | Posted: Wednesday, April 14, 2010 11:42 pm | (0) Comments



capital newspapers The Wirtzes’ home on Highway YY in the Town of LeRoy stands vacant after the family filed for bankruptcy and moved out in September 2009 due to health and financial hardship claimed to be caused by the nearby wind farm. The turbine behind the home stands 1,250 feet away.


OAKFIELD - A former Town of LeRoy family has filed a formal complaint April 1 with the Wisconsin Public Service Commission against Invenergy, a Chicago based energy company that owns the Forward Wind Energy Center located in Dodge and Fond du Lac Counties.

Jason and Ann Wirtz and their four children used to reside in a home on Highway YY in the town of LeRoy that was situated within the FWEC. According to the complaint, the Wirtzes suffered both physical and financial hardships from living near the wind turbines.

"The Wirtzes were forced out of their home by the noise and vibration of the wind turbines," said Edward Marion, the family's lawyer. "So, they lost all the money in their house, and they lost the value of their livestock, which is a herd of alpacas."

The Wirtzes bought their home in 1997, before the wind farm was built, and began renovations and started breeding alpacas. According to the complaint, once the turbines began running, the family began developing health problems ranging from headaches and fatigue to intestinal and anxiety issues.

The nearest turbine was located 1,250 feet from the home and was even closer to the pole shed in which the alpacas were housed. None of the turbines was on the Wirtzes' property.

"The noise echoed through the shed like the sound of jet engines," the complaint states. "Baby alpacas had always come full term. After the FWEC began operating, two baby alpacas aborted, and one was stillborn," Ann said.

The family attempted to sell their home in 2006, but most real estate agents did not want to list it. Because they could no longer stand living there and could not afford owning two homes, the Wirtzes filed for bankruptcy in September 2009 and moved to Oakfield.

"What they're trying to do now is to recover, from the company that runs the wind power plant, the money that they lost for their property and also the damage to their health while they lived there," Marion said. "We haven't asked for a specific amount of money."

Invenergy is aware of the complaint but was not able to comment on the specifics. But the company said there is no correlation between the turbines and any impact on health.

"There's been a lot of research and analysis of health effects with wind turbines. Most of the studies are pretty clear there is no connection," said Will Borders, deputy general counsel for Invenergy.

For the FWEC, the allowed decibel range is 50 during the day and 45 at night. According to the Wind Turbine Sound and Health Effects Expert Panel Review, 50 decibels is about the same noise that someone would hear from light auto traffic 50 feet away.

A study conducted by the Minnesota Department of Health connects adverse health effects to wind turbine operations.

According to the WPSC's administration code, Invenergy has 20 days to respond to the complaint and the commission has 60 days to decide what to do with the complaint.

Bear River to Have Farmer's/Artists Market

Bear River Market - call for vendors
bearriverarts | April 15, 2010 at 10:39 am | Categories: Bear River, artists | URL: http://wp.me/pfgTD-6z



We are looking for vendors who are interested in participating in Bear River’s Sunday Farmers and Artists Market

Location: Bear River Waterfront
Time: 1pm – 4pm every Sunday
Date: Beginning June 13th, 2010

If interested please contact

Ken F. – 467-0469

Or email: bearrivermarket@gmail.com

Landscapes Matter in Many Ways

Posted: 12:00 AM

'Treasured landscape' or site for wind turbines?
Morning Sentinel Staff


I am a sporting camp owner in the town of Highland Plantation. Our town is the site of a proposed industrial wind power facility.


I am concerned about the future of the wildlands of Maine, as well as our town, since the number and scale of wind power proposals likely will affect all the mountains of Maine, leaving not a single place free of a view of 400-foot turbines.

Alec Giffen heads the group Gov. John Baldacci appointed to accomplish the goal, to produce energy without greenhouse gases associated with fossil fuel generation.

Since fossil fuel generators need to be kept running as backup when the wind stops, I fail to see where the reduction in greenhouse gases comes from.

Add permanent deforestation for roads and infrastructure blasted into the most remote and sensitive forest landscape, and I believe we have increased our "carbon footprint."

Taxpayers are supplying much of the financing for this, and we don't even get a break on the cost of electricity. It gets better. Giffen also is proposing that we buy development rights from large landowners in the same wild land, using $250 million in federal money to prevent development of the only undeveloped forest left in the eastern United States. He said there is no other forest like it anywhere.

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar describes such land as a "treasured landscape." What is going on?

Greg Drummond

Highland Plantation

Digby Area Tourism Association AGM

The Digby Area Tourism Association is holding its Annual General Meeting on May 5th, 6 pm at the Municipal Office, 12548 Hwy 217.

Guest speaker Lori Blackburn, Destination Tourism Development Officer, Dept. of Tourism Culture and Heritage



Please mark your calendar and make plans to attend. DATA needs your input. If you have a skill in communications, grant applications, or want to help DATA make this area a destination in the tourism market then be a part of the board or participate on a project committee.



If you are interested or need more information contact me at 245-6132 or email

petitpassage@eastlink.ca

April Events in Bear River

April Events in Bear River
Flora Doehler | April 12, 2010 at 12:06 pm | Categories: Rebekah Music Hall, book talk, environment, gardening, music | URL: http://wp.me/pfgTD-6q

April 17 - Acres & Acres perform at the Rebekah
April 24 - Climate Change talk
April 24/25 - Red Cross First Aid
April 29 - The Creative Rural Economy & Cultural Mapping Workshop

details follow.....
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April - Perennial Plant Sale
Bear River blooms is having a huge plant sale of hardy perennials and some shrubs.
Price is $5.00 per un-potted good size division. Shrubs will be $10-$20.00.
Email Cheryl Stone- digbyanna@ns.sympatico.ca for a plant list.
Some of the perennials divided will be:

Liatris- both purple and white
helenium- different varieties
centurea macrocephala- yellow basket flower
Monarda
Crocosmia
Astilbe
Joe pye weed
Asters
Canpanula- "kent Belle"
Daylilies- various colours
Yarrow- coronation gold and tera cotta
Too many plants to name them all but please do inquire and get a complete list emailed to you.
----------------------------------------

April 12 - Oakdene Centre Annual General Meeting 7 pm - All welcome
Come and find out what's been happening at the Oakdene this year and what the future plans are. Election of new executive. Refreshments.
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April 17 - Acres & Acres perform at the Rebekah Music Hall
Acres and Acres will play in Bear River and with Clayton Murray opening at the
Rebekah Music Hall--1886 Clementsvale Rd. (downtown Bear River)
8 PM
Suggested donation $10

check them out:
http://www.myspace.com/acresandacres
http://www.sonicbids.com/epk/epk.aspx?epk_id=187346
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April 24 - Climate Change talk
Climate Change : From Copenhagen to ‘Climategate’ : a cover-up?
What’s the REAL story?

when: Saturday April 24, 2010, 7 pm – 9 pm
where: Oakdene Community Centre, Bear River
cost: pay-what-you-can. Proceeds to the Oakdene roof repair fund.
donated refreshments

An ‘all ages’ presentation and discussion in honour of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day with Dr. Leo Elshof, Acadia University. Dr. Elshof teaches science education and environmental studies at Acadia University. He has been involved in science and engineering education for over 25 years. In December he attended the United Nations Copenhagen Climate Conference as a delegate.

Additional book discussion: Climate Cover-up: the crusade to deny global warming by James Hoggan.
----------------------------------------

April 24/25 - Red Cross First Aid
Quercia Recreation is offering Canadian Red Cross First Aid programs.
Standard First Aid and CPR- Apr 24/25 - $85
Emergency First Aid and CPR Apr 24 - $55
To sign up for a class or for more information call 467-0489 or email querciarecreation@gmail.com
All programs are offered at the Oakdene Centre in Bear River.
----------------------------------------

April 29th -The Creative Rural Economy & Cultural Mapping Workshop
at the Annapolis Royal Legion
register by April 19. cost $10, includes lunch.

Are the fishery and forestry, our region's traditionally important economic sectors, being joined by a third? Here, today, innovative and knowledge-based industries pursue new ideas in computer technology. Medical and scientific research. Education. Tourism. Health Care. Culture.The Arts.
Together they now represent a fast-growing creative economic sector.Linking new economy jobs and our creative sector is accomplished by cultural planning and its key tool, cultural mapping.

An integrated creative, innovative, knowledge-based economic sector is possible here. Join us for that discussion, and to explore a way forward.

Our April 29, 2009 workshop brings together the fertile minds, broad experience and hard-won insights of sixty opinion leaders and doers in our region. We want you to be one of that group.
“Most discussion related to creativity and culture as new economic drivers...has focused on larger urban centers. Yet, these ideas have powerful potential in smaller towns and rural areas. Municipalities large and small are turning to municipal cultural planning as a tool for building local economies through creativity, culture, and quality of place.” -- Dr. Greg Baeker
"Building a Creative Rural Economy"
Municipal World magazine, September 2008
Dr. Greg Baeker, Canada's leading thinker about the creative rural economy, is our keynote speaker and workshop leader at the gathering in Annapolis Royal.

Participate in the morning keynote presentations and/or the afternoon hands-on workshop, and/or the open community forum in Bridgetown beginning at 7:00 at the End of the Line Pub.

Because space is limited we ask you register by April 16.

More information and a registration link are to be found here: http://www.agrg.cogs.nscc.ca/CRE_Workshop
We hope you will join us. Heather LeBlanc. cre.mapping@gmail.com

On at Munic.Council Tomorrow

Municipality of the District of Digby
Committee of the Whole
Agenda
Meeting Date April 13, 2010 Pause to Seek Guidance Approval of the Agenda Additions/Deletions   Presentations  Approval of Minutes  March 8, 2010 Old Business /Business Arising from Minutes
# 1.0 Health Services Centre  Letter from Digby & Area Health Services Charitable Foundation
# 2.0 Tax Exemption Request  Information on activities of NS Bird Sanctuary Trust AAN: 03733645
# 3.0 Paving Upper Cross Road  Response from Transportation & Infrastructure Renewal Other Business Arising Warden Thurber Deputy Warden MacAlpine Councillor Gregory Councillor Amero Councillor Adams     
Municipality of the District of Digby
Committee of the Whole
Agenda
New Business
#1 Funding Request  Bear River Board of Trade - $ 2,500 Operating and Maintenance Costs
#2 Funding Request  VON- $ 2,000 Community & Charitable Program Delivery
#3 Funding Request  Destination Southwest Nova Association- $ 4,821 Municipal Investment Program
#4 Funding Request  South West Nova Transition House Association - $ 2,000 Operating Costs
#5 Funding Request  Digby Scallop Days $ 3,000
#6 Funding Request  Nature Conservancy of Canada- $ 30,000 (paid in 3 annual instalments) Brier Island Trail Project
# 7 Western Counties Regional Library  Personal Safety of Staff-Personal Emergency Systems Weymouth and Westport Libraries
# 8 Digby Harbour Port Association  Board Member Appointment
# 9 Deputy Warden MacAlpine  Grass Burning Correspondence Received Information Only # 1 Minister of Economic & Rural Development-Percy Paris  Re: Yarmouth Ferry Service # 2 S/Sgt Phil Barrett  Nova Scotia Gun Amnesty # 3 Western Counties Regional Library  Adopt-A-Book
Municipality of the District of Digby
Committee of the Whole
Agenda
Chief Administrative Report  April, 2010 Request for Decisions/Direction  Meeting Dates/Reminders  April 19th @ 6:00 pm By-law & Policy  April 26th @ 6:00 pm Council  May 3rd @ 6:00 pm By-law & Policy  May 10th @ 6:00 pm COTW  May 17th @ 6:00 pm By-law & Policy  May 25th @ 6:00 pm Council (Change from Monday May 24th) Department Reports for March 2010  Administration  Taxation  Building Department  Building Permit  Municipal Fire Inspector  Airport/Dispatch  Dispatch Call Report  Airport Statistical  Dog Control Activity  Dog Control Financial  Coordinator Program Development  Kings Transit Ridership/Financial Updates from Previous meetings Special Projects Updates Strategic Priorities Update  No update available Notice of Motion In-Camera  Legal Issue Adjournment

Blooms for Sale!!

Via the goodness of Tom Paton:

Hello Everyone,

I'm sending out this mail to let you know of a HUGE PLANT SALE! It's time for Bear River blooms to do some dividing of the perennials. This will be a big selection of hardy perennials, un-potted and good size divisions ready to pop into your own gardens.
The cost will be $5.00 per division, shrubs will be in the 10.00-20.00 range.
Since a particular day may not coincide with when you have a spot for these plants, I am doing the sale by appt. You can call or email me and I'll send you a plant list. It will be first come first serve but there are plenty of plants I assure you. I'll either dig the plants just before your arrival or when you come.
Thanks very much and if you don't need plants please pass along this email to someone you know who might.

Enjoy this lovely spring we're having!

Cheryl Stone
Bear River Blooms
467-0337

re:Coyotes

from the blogger:
It is senseless to run out with our firesticks and blast anything we don't understand and fear. Those that do might as well start thumping their chests and swinging from the trees. The coyotes are becoming more interested in us because humans are feeding them. STOP FEEDING THEM SO THEY WON'T SEE HUMANS AS A FOOD SOURCE!
Walk with things that make noise or jangle on. Carry a big stick. Walk with someone else. Don't carry food. Do people have common sense or not?
And above all, report someone who you know is feeding the coyotes. For goodness sake, you are blaming the wrong animal. DNR maybe should be putting a bounty on humans that feed wild animals with teeth and claws. How dumb can we get. ????
Look what people did to the sharks after Jaws. They feared them and didn't understand them, and went out killing sharks with whatever they could, especially with wild abandon. It decimated the population and could've killed off a species. All because a stupid human wanted to scare people for a thrill (and money), and afterwards, when he saw the aftermath, he's sorry the human apes went on a killing spree. The sharks don't even like to eat us! If humans make themselves look like a seal in areas where there's sharks, well who's at fault? If we make ourselves "FOOD" to the wild animals, what do you think they're going to do? Bite! DON'T blame the innocent animal. The human animal is slowly evolving out of being the bloodthirstiest primative on the planet, but there are some who are slower to evolve, and kill at the least spark, even to the detriment of their-and our- own world.THINK. That's what's supposed to make us different from animals we used to think were lower forms. We don't have to kill first and think later. We have a 3 pound brain to use. for Something.

Thailand Recognizes Feedstock Issue for Biomass

07 Apr 2010
Thailand / Biomass & Waste
Thailand’s A.T. Biopower moves away from biomass to solar

Thailand’s A.T. Biopower has decided to suspend its biomass project due to feedstock issues, and said it will instead develop solar projects.

The company’s 22MW plant in Pichit, Thailand, needs at least 500 metric tons a day of husks, but it is CEO Natee Sithiprasasana said there is not enough supply of rice husks. However, he did not say what the company will do with the plant. The company is considering “small-capital projects” that can produce 2MW to 3MW of solar power, he said, estimating that a plant of that scale would cost about THB 200m (USD 6.2m) to THB 300m. Thailand is drafting a 20-year energy plan aimed at getting 3GW of electricity from biomass by 2030, compared with current output of about 700MW

Biomass and "New Page"

Nova Scotia Power, NewPage to build 60MW biomass project (05 Apr 2010)
New Energy Matters (subscription)
NS Power is currently developing the 30MW Digby Neck wind project, which parent company Emera had purchased from bankrupt developer SkyPower, ...