Panel denies air-code changes
BY MICHELLE HILLEN
Posted on Saturday, June 28, 2008
URL: http://www.nwanews.com/adg/News/229886/
Saying the request was premature, the Arkansas Pollution Control and Ecology Commission on Friday unanimously rejected a request by environmental groups to change Arkansas’ air code to consider carbon dioxide an “air contaminant.”
“I do think this is putting the cart before the horse,” commission member Scott Henderson, explaining that he believes the governor’s Global Warming Commission should have first crack at determining how carbon dioxide emissions should be regulated.
The commission, established last year, is studying ways state agencies can offset factors that might contribute to climate change.
“I don’t agree with the discussion about waiting for the federal government to do it, but I do think the Global Warming Commission has to do its work,” Henderson said.
The Arkansas Sierra Club, Audubon Arkansas and the Environmental Integrity Project had filed a petition seeking to amend definitions included in Regulations 18 and 26 of the state’s airquality regulations. The proposal called for the definitions in both regulations to eliminate carbon dioxide from a list of emissions not considered air contaminants, including water vapor, oxygen, nitrogen, hydrogen and inert gases.
The petition cited concerns that increased concentrations of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere can lead to higher maximum temperatures, more hot days, higher minimum temperatures, fewer cold days, more intense “precipitation events” and increased risk of drought.
Environmentalists argued their proposal wouldn’t immediately require regulation of carbon dioxide by the Environmental Quality Department. But industry and department officials disagreed.
“We are not opposed to the removal of this exemption.... We realize that global warming is a global problem,” department Director Teresa Marks said. “Our concern is unintended consequences, and the practicality of what we would do if the exemption was removed immediately.”
Marks said existing regulations would require the department to regulate anyone who emits more than 25 tons per year of an “air contaminant.” The department today doesn’t have the technology available to regulate emissions of carbon dioxide, she said.
After more than a half-hour of comments from industry leaders and environmentalists, the commission approved an order supplied by the Arkansas Environmental Federation, an organization that lobbies on behalf of companies on environmental matters.
The order states that the request from the environmental- ists was defective for a number of reasons, including that it failed to include an economic impact statement and an environmental benefit analysis. Such statements are required by state law if the proposed change is more stringent than federal requirements.
Glen Hooks, regional representative of the Sierra Club, said he was surprised by the decision.
“I think what these guys have done is stand up and say we know CO 2 is a pollutant, we know it is a contaminant, but we don’t want to do anything about it,” Hooks said.
“They said it publicly, and I found it amazing.”
He said he and other environmentalists expect to bring forward a new petition that addresses the commissioners’ concerns sooner rather than later.
“We’ll be back,” said Ilan Levin of the Environmental Integrity Project.
The concerns can be addressed in a number of ways, including by increasing the allowable emission threshold from 25 tons per year, Levin said.
Copyright © 2001-2008 Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc. All rights reserved. Contact: webmaster@nwanews.com
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Association for Beaver Lake Environment growing!
From: President@able-ark.org
Sent: Sat 6/28/08 12:51 PM
To: aubreyshepherd@hotmail.com
This is an e-mail from 'Able-Ark.org - Association for Beaver Lake Environment '
Message:
Hello ABLE members,
I wanted to let you know that ABLE hosted a special Town Hall Meeting for Beaver Lake Dock Owners on Monday, June 23, 2008. The purpose of the meeting was to sell ABLE to Beaver Lake property owners, identify/discuss issues affecting and threatening the lake, and to increase ABLE membership. This meeting was very successful! We have signed up many new members, the meeting was standing room only, over 110 people attended!
We also had two guest speakers:
Thad Cheaney from the U.S. Army Corp. of Engineers - discussed dock and shoreline issues.
Nathan Jones, VP of Power Source Solar - discussed solar applications on boat docks.
I have posted the program on the website (www.able-ark.org). Login, click on "Information Library" page, and then click on Town Hall Meetings. You will see the "Dock Owners Meeting". You will need Adobe Acrobat in order to view the program.
Thanks for supporting ABLE!
Doug Timmons
President, ABLE
Sent: Sat 6/28/08 12:51 PM
To: aubreyshepherd@hotmail.com
This is an e-mail from 'Able-Ark.org - Association for Beaver Lake Environment '
Message:
Hello ABLE members,
I wanted to let you know that ABLE hosted a special Town Hall Meeting for Beaver Lake Dock Owners on Monday, June 23, 2008. The purpose of the meeting was to sell ABLE to Beaver Lake property owners, identify/discuss issues affecting and threatening the lake, and to increase ABLE membership. This meeting was very successful! We have signed up many new members, the meeting was standing room only, over 110 people attended!
We also had two guest speakers:
Thad Cheaney from the U.S. Army Corp. of Engineers - discussed dock and shoreline issues.
Nathan Jones, VP of Power Source Solar - discussed solar applications on boat docks.
I have posted the program on the website (www.able-ark.org). Login, click on "Information Library" page, and then click on Town Hall Meetings. You will see the "Dock Owners Meeting". You will need Adobe Acrobat in order to view the program.
Thanks for supporting ABLE!
Doug Timmons
President, ABLE
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
The Morning News reports on War Eagle Bridge reaching 100 years of age
The Morning News
Local News for Northwest Arkansas
War Eagle Bridge Celebrates 100 Years
By Scarlet Sims
THE MORNING NEWS
History buffs and community leaders will celebrate War Eagle Bridge turning 100 years old Friday.
"It's very important to our community," said Kathy Bannister, the Benton County grant coordinator. "It's a historical icon. It's just dear to the heart of many people."
War Eagle Mill General Manager Tracy Watson said he is coordinating a "100 years of service" celebration event at 11 a.m. at War Eagle Mill, 11045 War Eagle Road. The event will recognize residents who petitioned to build the bridge in 1907 and current residents who support continued use of War Eagle Bridge. The public will get the opportunity to review historical documents.
Arkansas Red will provide old-time music, and food samples will be available.
"It's just going to be a celebration," said Susie Jumonville, the assistant general manager and financial manager at the mill.
The bridge remains a tourist attraction, Bannister said.
Before the bridge, War Eagle-area residents couldn't get to town when the river flooded, said Mike Carney, the Benton County archivist. Two forts were built and destroyed at the same site before the mill was constructed in 1876.
About 100 residents signed a petition for War Eagle Bridge in January 1907. Building began in October, and the bridge was constructed for $4,790.80, according to documents. The final payment was made June 20, 1908, which is why Watson chose June to celebrate.
Residents continue to use War Eagle Bridge despite officials' 2004 finding that the bridge needs repairs. Residents submitted letters in support of the bridge, and the county secured about $600,000 in federal and state grants for rehabilitation.
No up-to-date cost estimate is available but a 2006 construction estimate put the project around $916,000, Comptroller Richard McComas said. The work would extend the bridge's life 20 years but wouldn't allow heavy vehicle traffic, county officials have said.
McComas said recent flooding at War Eagle could increase cost, but state inspectors recently found no damage to the bridge from recent storms, said Glenn Bolick, an Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department spokesman. The county hopes to take construction bids in September or October, Bannister said. An engineer is working to get environmental clearance from the state, she said.
A bridge lasting 100 years is momentous, Carney said.
"What a miracle that a bridge lasted long enough to see the horse and buggy and now modern vehicles," Carney said.
Several speakers are expected to address the crowd. County Judge Gary Black will accept a granite plaque recognizing his part in preserving the bridge. The plaque, to be mounted on the mill, will show the bridge's significance for future generations, Watson said.
Fast Fact
Historic Spans
War Eagle Bridge is the second oldest bridge in Benton County. The oldest is Spavinaw Bridge, according to the county archive department.
Source: Staff Report
Local News for Northwest Arkansas
War Eagle Bridge Celebrates 100 Years
By Scarlet Sims
THE MORNING NEWS
History buffs and community leaders will celebrate War Eagle Bridge turning 100 years old Friday.
"It's very important to our community," said Kathy Bannister, the Benton County grant coordinator. "It's a historical icon. It's just dear to the heart of many people."
War Eagle Mill General Manager Tracy Watson said he is coordinating a "100 years of service" celebration event at 11 a.m. at War Eagle Mill, 11045 War Eagle Road. The event will recognize residents who petitioned to build the bridge in 1907 and current residents who support continued use of War Eagle Bridge. The public will get the opportunity to review historical documents.
Arkansas Red will provide old-time music, and food samples will be available.
"It's just going to be a celebration," said Susie Jumonville, the assistant general manager and financial manager at the mill.
The bridge remains a tourist attraction, Bannister said.
Before the bridge, War Eagle-area residents couldn't get to town when the river flooded, said Mike Carney, the Benton County archivist. Two forts were built and destroyed at the same site before the mill was constructed in 1876.
About 100 residents signed a petition for War Eagle Bridge in January 1907. Building began in October, and the bridge was constructed for $4,790.80, according to documents. The final payment was made June 20, 1908, which is why Watson chose June to celebrate.
Residents continue to use War Eagle Bridge despite officials' 2004 finding that the bridge needs repairs. Residents submitted letters in support of the bridge, and the county secured about $600,000 in federal and state grants for rehabilitation.
No up-to-date cost estimate is available but a 2006 construction estimate put the project around $916,000, Comptroller Richard McComas said. The work would extend the bridge's life 20 years but wouldn't allow heavy vehicle traffic, county officials have said.
McComas said recent flooding at War Eagle could increase cost, but state inspectors recently found no damage to the bridge from recent storms, said Glenn Bolick, an Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department spokesman. The county hopes to take construction bids in September or October, Bannister said. An engineer is working to get environmental clearance from the state, she said.
A bridge lasting 100 years is momentous, Carney said.
"What a miracle that a bridge lasted long enough to see the horse and buggy and now modern vehicles," Carney said.
Several speakers are expected to address the crowd. County Judge Gary Black will accept a granite plaque recognizing his part in preserving the bridge. The plaque, to be mounted on the mill, will show the bridge's significance for future generations, Watson said.
Fast Fact
Historic Spans
War Eagle Bridge is the second oldest bridge in Benton County. The oldest is Spavinaw Bridge, according to the county archive department.
Source: Staff Report
War Eagle Bridge 100 years old
The Morning News
Local News for Northwest Arkansas
War Eagle Bridge Celebrates 100 Years
By Scarlet Sims
THE MORNING NEWS
History buffs and community leaders will celebrate War Eagle Bridge turning 100 years old Friday.
"It's very important to our community," said Kathy Bannister, the Benton County grant coordinator. "It's a historical icon. It's just dear to the heart of many people."
War Eagle Mill General Manager Tracy Watson said he is coordinating a "100 years of service" celebration event at 11 a.m. at War Eagle Mill, 11045 War Eagle Road. The event will recognize residents who petitioned to build the bridge in 1907 and current residents who support continued use of War Eagle Bridge. The public will get the opportunity to review historical documents.
Arkansas Red will provide old-time music, and food samples will be available.
"It's just going to be a celebration," said Susie Jumonville, the assistant general manager and financial manager at the mill.
The bridge remains a tourist attraction, Bannister said.
Before the bridge, War Eagle-area residents couldn't get to town when the river flooded, said Mike Carney, the Benton County archivist. Two forts were built and destroyed at the same site before the mill was constructed in 1876.
About 100 residents signed a petition for War Eagle Bridge in January 1907. Building began in October, and the bridge was constructed for $4,790.80, according to documents. The final payment was made June 20, 1908, which is why Watson chose June to celebrate.
Residents continue to use War Eagle Bridge despite officials' 2004 finding that the bridge needs repairs. Residents submitted letters in support of the bridge, and the county secured about $600,000 in federal and state grants for rehabilitation.
No up-to-date cost estimate is available but a 2006 construction estimate put the project around $916,000, Comptroller Richard McComas said. The work would extend the bridge's life 20 years but wouldn't allow heavy vehicle traffic, county officials have said.
McComas said recent flooding at War Eagle could increase cost, but state inspectors recently found no damage to the bridge from recent storms, said Glenn Bolick, an Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department spokesman. The county hopes to take construction bids in September or October, Bannister said. An engineer is working to get environmental clearance from the state, she said.
A bridge lasting 100 years is momentous, Carney said.
"What a miracle that a bridge lasted long enough to see the horse and buggy and now modern vehicles," Carney said.
Several speakers are expected to address the crowd. County Judge Gary Black will accept a granite plaque recognizing his part in preserving the bridge. The plaque, to be mounted on the mill, will show the bridge's significance for future generations, Watson said.
Fast Fact
Historic Spans
War Eagle Bridge is the second oldest bridge in Benton County. The oldest is Spavinaw Bridge, according to the county archive department.
Source: Staff Report
Local News for Northwest Arkansas
War Eagle Bridge Celebrates 100 Years
By Scarlet Sims
THE MORNING NEWS
History buffs and community leaders will celebrate War Eagle Bridge turning 100 years old Friday.
"It's very important to our community," said Kathy Bannister, the Benton County grant coordinator. "It's a historical icon. It's just dear to the heart of many people."
War Eagle Mill General Manager Tracy Watson said he is coordinating a "100 years of service" celebration event at 11 a.m. at War Eagle Mill, 11045 War Eagle Road. The event will recognize residents who petitioned to build the bridge in 1907 and current residents who support continued use of War Eagle Bridge. The public will get the opportunity to review historical documents.
Arkansas Red will provide old-time music, and food samples will be available.
"It's just going to be a celebration," said Susie Jumonville, the assistant general manager and financial manager at the mill.
The bridge remains a tourist attraction, Bannister said.
Before the bridge, War Eagle-area residents couldn't get to town when the river flooded, said Mike Carney, the Benton County archivist. Two forts were built and destroyed at the same site before the mill was constructed in 1876.
About 100 residents signed a petition for War Eagle Bridge in January 1907. Building began in October, and the bridge was constructed for $4,790.80, according to documents. The final payment was made June 20, 1908, which is why Watson chose June to celebrate.
Residents continue to use War Eagle Bridge despite officials' 2004 finding that the bridge needs repairs. Residents submitted letters in support of the bridge, and the county secured about $600,000 in federal and state grants for rehabilitation.
No up-to-date cost estimate is available but a 2006 construction estimate put the project around $916,000, Comptroller Richard McComas said. The work would extend the bridge's life 20 years but wouldn't allow heavy vehicle traffic, county officials have said.
McComas said recent flooding at War Eagle could increase cost, but state inspectors recently found no damage to the bridge from recent storms, said Glenn Bolick, an Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department spokesman. The county hopes to take construction bids in September or October, Bannister said. An engineer is working to get environmental clearance from the state, she said.
A bridge lasting 100 years is momentous, Carney said.
"What a miracle that a bridge lasted long enough to see the horse and buggy and now modern vehicles," Carney said.
Several speakers are expected to address the crowd. County Judge Gary Black will accept a granite plaque recognizing his part in preserving the bridge. The plaque, to be mounted on the mill, will show the bridge's significance for future generations, Watson said.
Fast Fact
Historic Spans
War Eagle Bridge is the second oldest bridge in Benton County. The oldest is Spavinaw Bridge, according to the county archive department.
Source: Staff Report
War Eagle Bridge 100 years old
The Morning News
Local News for Northwest Arkansas
War Eagle Bridge Celebrates 100 Years
By Scarlet Sims
THE MORNING NEWS
History buffs and community leaders will celebrate War Eagle Bridge turning 100 years old Friday.
"It's very important to our community," said Kathy Bannister, the Benton County grant coordinator. "It's a historical icon. It's just dear to the heart of many people."
War Eagle Mill General Manager Tracy Watson said he is coordinating a "100 years of service" celebration event at 11 a.m. at War Eagle Mill, 11045 War Eagle Road. The event will recognize residents who petitioned to build the bridge in 1907 and current residents who support continued use of War Eagle Bridge. The public will get the opportunity to review historical documents.
Arkansas Red will provide old-time music, and food samples will be available.
"It's just going to be a celebration," said Susie Jumonville, the assistant general manager and financial manager at the mill.
The bridge remains a tourist attraction, Bannister said.
Before the bridge, War Eagle-area residents couldn't get to town when the river flooded, said Mike Carney, the Benton County archivist. Two forts were built and destroyed at the same site before the mill was constructed in 1876.
About 100 residents signed a petition for War Eagle Bridge in January 1907. Building began in October, and the bridge was constructed for $4,790.80, according to documents. The final payment was made June 20, 1908, which is why Watson chose June to celebrate.
Residents continue to use War Eagle Bridge despite officials' 2004 finding that the bridge needs repairs. Residents submitted letters in support of the bridge, and the county secured about $600,000 in federal and state grants for rehabilitation.
No up-to-date cost estimate is available but a 2006 construction estimate put the project around $916,000, Comptroller Richard McComas said. The work would extend the bridge's life 20 years but wouldn't allow heavy vehicle traffic, county officials have said.
McComas said recent flooding at War Eagle could increase cost, but state inspectors recently found no damage to the bridge from recent storms, said Glenn Bolick, an Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department spokesman. The county hopes to take construction bids in September or October, Bannister said. An engineer is working to get environmental clearance from the state, she said.
A bridge lasting 100 years is momentous, Carney said.
"What a miracle that a bridge lasted long enough to see the horse and buggy and now modern vehicles," Carney said.
Several speakers are expected to address the crowd. County Judge Gary Black will accept a granite plaque recognizing his part in preserving the bridge. The plaque, to be mounted on the mill, will show the bridge's significance for future generations, Watson said.
Fast Fact
Historic Spans
War Eagle Bridge is the second oldest bridge in Benton County. The oldest is Spavinaw Bridge, according to the county archive department.
Source: Staff Report
Local News for Northwest Arkansas
War Eagle Bridge Celebrates 100 Years
By Scarlet Sims
THE MORNING NEWS
History buffs and community leaders will celebrate War Eagle Bridge turning 100 years old Friday.
"It's very important to our community," said Kathy Bannister, the Benton County grant coordinator. "It's a historical icon. It's just dear to the heart of many people."
War Eagle Mill General Manager Tracy Watson said he is coordinating a "100 years of service" celebration event at 11 a.m. at War Eagle Mill, 11045 War Eagle Road. The event will recognize residents who petitioned to build the bridge in 1907 and current residents who support continued use of War Eagle Bridge. The public will get the opportunity to review historical documents.
Arkansas Red will provide old-time music, and food samples will be available.
"It's just going to be a celebration," said Susie Jumonville, the assistant general manager and financial manager at the mill.
The bridge remains a tourist attraction, Bannister said.
Before the bridge, War Eagle-area residents couldn't get to town when the river flooded, said Mike Carney, the Benton County archivist. Two forts were built and destroyed at the same site before the mill was constructed in 1876.
About 100 residents signed a petition for War Eagle Bridge in January 1907. Building began in October, and the bridge was constructed for $4,790.80, according to documents. The final payment was made June 20, 1908, which is why Watson chose June to celebrate.
Residents continue to use War Eagle Bridge despite officials' 2004 finding that the bridge needs repairs. Residents submitted letters in support of the bridge, and the county secured about $600,000 in federal and state grants for rehabilitation.
No up-to-date cost estimate is available but a 2006 construction estimate put the project around $916,000, Comptroller Richard McComas said. The work would extend the bridge's life 20 years but wouldn't allow heavy vehicle traffic, county officials have said.
McComas said recent flooding at War Eagle could increase cost, but state inspectors recently found no damage to the bridge from recent storms, said Glenn Bolick, an Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department spokesman. The county hopes to take construction bids in September or October, Bannister said. An engineer is working to get environmental clearance from the state, she said.
A bridge lasting 100 years is momentous, Carney said.
"What a miracle that a bridge lasted long enough to see the horse and buggy and now modern vehicles," Carney said.
Several speakers are expected to address the crowd. County Judge Gary Black will accept a granite plaque recognizing his part in preserving the bridge. The plaque, to be mounted on the mill, will show the bridge's significance for future generations, Watson said.
Fast Fact
Historic Spans
War Eagle Bridge is the second oldest bridge in Benton County. The oldest is Spavinaw Bridge, according to the county archive department.
Source: Staff Report
Monday, June 23, 2008
Ozark Highlands Group of Sierra Club to meet with James Burke to discuss fight against dirty coal burning in Arkansas at Smiling Jack's at 7 p.m. Wed.
Our June monthly meeting will be this Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Smiling Jack's just off Dixon Street behind the Dixon Street book shop.
James Burke will be joining us to talk about the coal campaign and the progress we are making in that area. It will be very informal; this is a great opportunity to learn more about what we can do to make sure Arkansas doesn't build any new coal fired power plants. Bring your coal questions for James to answer!
Our Arkansas Chapter chair, Adrienne, will be bringing some yard signs protesting dirty coal if you would like one.
As always, please forward this email along to others you think might be interested.
Molly Rawn
Sierra Club, Ozark Headwaters Group
Intern
(479) 879-1620
James Burke will be joining us to talk about the coal campaign and the progress we are making in that area. It will be very informal; this is a great opportunity to learn more about what we can do to make sure Arkansas doesn't build any new coal fired power plants. Bring your coal questions for James to answer!
Our Arkansas Chapter chair, Adrienne, will be bringing some yard signs protesting dirty coal if you would like one.
As always, please forward this email along to others you think might be interested.
Molly Rawn
Sierra Club, Ozark Headwaters Group
Intern
(479) 879-1620
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Wetland article ignores drawbacks in wetland mitigation projects but provides valuable insight and source of hope for urban wetland protection
Woolsey wetland article in The Morning News
The Woolsey Prairie is adjacent to land where the new wastewater-treatment plant was built. Actually, the plant was built on what might be called the original Woolsey Prairie.
Because the plant destroyed a great many wetland acres, the Corps of Engineers permit required mitigation. There have been many shows on Government channel about the progress of creating the mitigation area over the past couple of years, mostly as a part of shows on progress of construction of the plant itself.
The good news is that the city is "manufacturing" wetland to make up for destruction. That isn't as good as preserving existing wetland exactly as nature made it. However, it is beautiful site.
The bad news is that a plan to allow developers to "purchase" shares in such mitigation land is similar to trading carbon-pollution rights. It means developers can dredge and fill to build on wetland in the city and "mitigate" it by paying for creation of such sites. This is better than nothing. However, it doesn't protect property from flooding downstream from the development. And it allows valuable habitat to be destroyed where it should be kept. It doesn't make stormwater remain where it falls and soak in to keep vegetation healthy and replenish underground aquifers.
That was the first story I ever read by Skip Descant. He appears to be a good reporter.
He wouldn't likely know about World Peace Wetland Prairie or that "keeping the water where it falls" is the contrasting idea that would have had to have been included in the story if his plan was to write a truly multi-source story.
In fact, WPWP is exactly opposite to a manufactured wetland area. It protects habitat and lets water soak in UPSTREAM where it falls. It was saved from development and stands in stark contrast with the Aspen Ridge/Hill Place development site to to its north.
While it has a large population of nonnative species, particularly fescue and Japanese honeysuckle that require constant volunteer effort to remove, it never had its basic seed and root base of native species removed.
Being inside the city and a part of the headwater system of the Town Branch of the West Fork of the White River and thus a significant area that helps protect the Beaver Lake watershed, its soil and plant life (even the invasive nonnative species) are functioning perfectly for stormwater management and protection of water quality.
The already completed Woolsey Prairie serves to catch water NEAR where it falls on the sewage-treatment plant. But adjacent parcels that may be saved as wetland prairie or savannah will be for sale to developers as mitigation for environmentally destruction parcels upstream. That part of the story has been discussed on several Government Channel productions related to the new sewage-treatment plant.
It would be nice to have a map of wetland areas. I frequently offer such information with photos from various parts of the watershed on my blogs and Flickr photo sets. But an overall plan to protect wetland isn't something everyone wants. Such a citywide delineation of wetland areas could prevent developers from buying property that should not be developed on the assumption that they will always get permission to dredge and fill such places simply by buying a share of an already preserved parcel miles away or not even in the same watershed.
Some developers and even some city officials and staff members don't want to acknowledge the existence of more than minimal wetland because public knowledge of the facts of Northwest Arkansas' environment might stifle their desire to build and pave every acre in the city.
More than two years ago, the Fayetteville Natural Heritage Association created a booklet with a list of environmentally sensitive areas in the city that the group deemed worthy of protection. That information has never been used by the city in any way, as far as I can tell. During the June 17, 2008, meeting of the Council of Neighborhoods, Bruce Shackleford's presentation on Woolsey Prairie got his ideas out to a lot of people and excited some of the neighborhood advocates to realize the importance of wetland prairie, exactly what we've been trying to do with our photos on Flickr and on our blogspots for the past year and for more than six years on Aubunique.com and for decades in various newspaper and magazine stories.
Fran Alexander and others persevere, but are only voices in the wildnerness, it seems.
Too many of the most outspoken people in the green, "sustainability" movement mostly focus on compromise positions. The paid environmentalists are all about compromise these days. Compromise mostly leads to learning to lose gracefully.
It takes people such as Fran Alexander with passion to get things done. And Shackleford's passion about the prairie wetland can do more to stir fervor in the fight to do the right thing in Fayetteville than some of us have done in decades. A lot of us old "tree-huggers" will be supporting his educational effort in every way we can.
For photos and more information, please use the following online links.
Hill Place/Aspen Ridge set of photos
Pinnacle Prairie set of photos — west side of World Peace Wetland Prairie
World Peace Wetland Prairie collection of sets of photos
Town Branch watershed set of photos
Friday, June 20, 2008
Did Chambers' investors ever question bank's support of Aspen Ridge debacle?
Please click on image to ENLARGE photo of Chambers Bank sign on Royal Oak Parkway at the north entry to the now-failed and finally defunct Aspen Ridge Townhome project site on Sixth Street/Martin Luther King Boulevard in south Fayetteville, Arkansas, in 2006.
For a story on another development project gone wrong, please click the following link:
Investors sue over Chambers Bank involvement in fraudulent development scheme
For a story on another development project gone wrong, please click the following link:
Investors sue over Chambers Bank involvement in fraudulent development scheme
Condo developers face lawsuit
Suit filed against condo developers
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
Posted on Friday, June 20, 2008
Email this story | Printer-friendly version
BENTONVILLE - Helen Hawkins is seeking more than $ 2 million from the developers of the proposed Grandview Heights condominium project on Beaver Lake.
Rogers attorney Jennifer Grey filed the May 12 foreclosure suit on behalf of Hawkins against Beaver Lake Properties LLC, Mendel Corp Inc., Northstar Engineering Consultants, Benton County Tax Collector Greg Hoggatt, Greenfield Capital Development Corp. and Jimmy Jones Excavation Inc.
According to the complaint, Beaver Lake Properties is past due in its time payments for the land it received from Hawkins.
Hawkins claims she is owed $ 2 million, plus interest.
Hawkins also claims she had a contract under which she would receive $ 300, 000 credit toward the purchase of a condominium unit.
The suit also seeks compensation for any damage to the property from the development. The suit seeks more than $ 2. 3 million.
The case is assigned to Circuit Judge Tom Keith.
By Tracy M. Neal Staff Writer // tracyn@nwanews.com
Posted on Friday, June 20, 2008
Email this story | Printer-friendly version
BENTONVILLE - Helen Hawkins is seeking more than $ 2 million from the developers of the proposed Grandview Heights condominium project on Beaver Lake.
Rogers attorney Jennifer Grey filed the May 12 foreclosure suit on behalf of Hawkins against Beaver Lake Properties LLC, Mendel Corp Inc., Northstar Engineering Consultants, Benton County Tax Collector Greg Hoggatt, Greenfield Capital Development Corp. and Jimmy Jones Excavation Inc.
According to the complaint, Beaver Lake Properties is past due in its time payments for the land it received from Hawkins.
Hawkins claims she is owed $ 2 million, plus interest.
Hawkins also claims she had a contract under which she would receive $ 300, 000 credit toward the purchase of a condominium unit.
The suit also seeks compensation for any damage to the property from the development. The suit seeks more than $ 2. 3 million.
The case is assigned to Circuit Judge Tom Keith.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Was architect quoted accurately? Morning News highlights house that narrows a creek, which means speeding runoff and causing flooding downstream
Heads Above Water
Architects Design Award-Winning Home
LAST UPDATED SUNDAY, JUNE 15, 2008 4:08 PM CDT IN YOUR HOME
By Marla Hinkle The Morning News
www.nwaonline.net/articles/2008/06/16/your_home/061608yhcreekhome.txt
FAYETTEVILLE - A creek meanders through the back yard as bamboo plants sway in the breeze. Herbs and vegetables grow on one side of the area. An outdoor grilling station is shaded by the second story. From all of these views, one can watch the stream flow, its course running straight under the house. The natural harmony continues throughout the Fayetteville home designed by University of Arkansas School of Architecture professor Marlon Blackwell and his wife, architect Ati Johari. The couple began work on the home in October 2006. The architects maximized the space - 2,500 square feet - into a home that functions like 4,000 square feet, Johari says. Skylights and large windows provide enough ambient light to eliminate the need for electric illumination most of the time. All of the rooms are one room wide, like an old-fashioned shotgun house. The kitchen glows as mid-day sun warms its quartz counters. "I like the connection between outdoors and inside," Johari says. Some views of yards in the Wilson Park neighborhood can be seen, but the second story offers large unobstructed windows while providing privacy.
"Our daughter says she feels like she is in the trees when she wakes up. I love seeing the leaves' colors change throughout the seasons," Johari says. Other features that allow the family to embrace the outdoors are steel-box windows that are pushed out on the plane of the wall to create a daybed or sitting area, where one can watch the rain stream down on the glass or see the creek rush by. A stairway enclosed by glass is another design element that continues the spectacular perspective and oneness with the outdoors. The stairway connects two 18-foot-wide boxes forming the structure. The "L-Stack House" design makes an impressive profile. The home's aesthetic is simple, Johari explains, but not austere. "It's Zen and modern. There's not fabric on top of the floor and lots of color." The floors are Brazilian teak, and the home's exterior is a Brazilian redwood rain screen. Rain screen technology is designed to eliminate dependence on an exterior seal. As a result of the open joints, pressure equalization prevents moisture from being pulled into the wall, allowing the system to ventilate itself. Flatscreen televisions affixed to walls upstairs save more room and offer the children a personal space. Blackwell says one of his favorite places is the outdoor grilling area. He's found arrowheads and crawfish in the creek. Flooding will not be an issue, BECAUSE THE CREEK HAS BEEN NARROWED and FLOWS MUCH FASTER, Blackwell says. Both Blackwell and Johari are collaborating with landscape designer Stuart Fulbright to develop a drybed seasonal creek with Ozark stone and plants. The site includes 1,200 square feet of terracing and decking. "It's a great place to socialize and spend time outdoors," Blackwell says.
Architects Design Award-Winning Home
LAST UPDATED SUNDAY, JUNE 15, 2008 4:08 PM CDT IN YOUR HOME
By Marla Hinkle The Morning News
www.nwaonline.net/articles/2008/06/16/your_home/061608yhcreekhome.txt
FAYETTEVILLE - A creek meanders through the back yard as bamboo plants sway in the breeze. Herbs and vegetables grow on one side of the area. An outdoor grilling station is shaded by the second story. From all of these views, one can watch the stream flow, its course running straight under the house. The natural harmony continues throughout the Fayetteville home designed by University of Arkansas School of Architecture professor Marlon Blackwell and his wife, architect Ati Johari. The couple began work on the home in October 2006. The architects maximized the space - 2,500 square feet - into a home that functions like 4,000 square feet, Johari says. Skylights and large windows provide enough ambient light to eliminate the need for electric illumination most of the time. All of the rooms are one room wide, like an old-fashioned shotgun house. The kitchen glows as mid-day sun warms its quartz counters. "I like the connection between outdoors and inside," Johari says. Some views of yards in the Wilson Park neighborhood can be seen, but the second story offers large unobstructed windows while providing privacy.
"Our daughter says she feels like she is in the trees when she wakes up. I love seeing the leaves' colors change throughout the seasons," Johari says. Other features that allow the family to embrace the outdoors are steel-box windows that are pushed out on the plane of the wall to create a daybed or sitting area, where one can watch the rain stream down on the glass or see the creek rush by. A stairway enclosed by glass is another design element that continues the spectacular perspective and oneness with the outdoors. The stairway connects two 18-foot-wide boxes forming the structure. The "L-Stack House" design makes an impressive profile. The home's aesthetic is simple, Johari explains, but not austere. "It's Zen and modern. There's not fabric on top of the floor and lots of color." The floors are Brazilian teak, and the home's exterior is a Brazilian redwood rain screen. Rain screen technology is designed to eliminate dependence on an exterior seal. As a result of the open joints, pressure equalization prevents moisture from being pulled into the wall, allowing the system to ventilate itself. Flatscreen televisions affixed to walls upstairs save more room and offer the children a personal space. Blackwell says one of his favorite places is the outdoor grilling area. He's found arrowheads and crawfish in the creek. Flooding will not be an issue, BECAUSE THE CREEK HAS BEEN NARROWED and FLOWS MUCH FASTER, Blackwell says. Both Blackwell and Johari are collaborating with landscape designer Stuart Fulbright to develop a drybed seasonal creek with Ozark stone and plants. The site includes 1,200 square feet of terracing and decking. "It's a great place to socialize and spend time outdoors," Blackwell says.
Monday, June 16, 2008
Beaver Lake Condo building permits about to expire
Please click on the link below to read the story on the Arkansas Business Web site:
Condo-permit renewal request puts planning board between rock and hard place
Condo-permit renewal request puts planning board between rock and hard place
Save Lake Maumelle today; save Beaver Lake tomorrow
4:00 pm today is deadline for requests and commentary.
Save the lake: Tell ADEQ Commission what you believe
Save the lake: Tell ADEQ what you believe
Electronic mail comments should be sent to the following address: reg-comment@adeq.state.ar.us.
Save Lake Maumelle today
Kate Althoff, a tireless advocate for protecting the safety of the Lake Maumelle water supply, notes that today is the deadline for public comments on a proposal before the state Pollution Control and Ecology Commission that would provide protection in the watershed from sewage discharges. The Commission, not known as a vigorous advocate for a pristine environment, seems reluctant to impose the rule. If you start protecting Lake Maumelle, after all, who knows where it might end? You might have to protect other water in the state from pollution, too.
She explains on the jump.
DEADLINE FOR COMMENTS TODAY
We often speak of certain items that are critical to the protection of the water quality of Lake Maumelle. There are none more critical than securing regulations that will prohibit the surface discharge of treated waste water. The computer modeling has indicated over and over again that without a doubt that just one small waste water treatment plant discharging into Lake Maumelle will clearly make it impossible to maintain safe drinking water quality – not good but safe. This is due primarily to the fact that Lake Maumelle is so small and shallow.
Lake Maumelle, and therefore the drinking water of 400,000 people, is very vulnerable at this time because, believe it or not, there is no Federal, State or local laws or regulations stopping a small or large residential developer from building their own waste water treatment plant, and dumping the treated waste into Lake Maumelle. This type of small package treatment plants are widely used across the US.
The one agency that has the authority to provide the needed regulations watershed wide is the Pollution Control and Ecology Commission. Believe it or not such a regulation is considered by the current members of the commission to be very progressive. The commission in recent hearings has indicated that they would rather this concern be addressed on a local level and therefore placing the burden on 3 counties, Pulaski, Perry, and Saline. This having been stated the Commission has begun the process, a delay version, of considering the adoption of such a regulation.
TODAY IS THE DEADLINE for the public to submit comments for consideration by the PC&E.
Written or electronic mail comments will be accepted if received no later than 4:30 p.m. June 16. Written comments should be sent to Doug Szenher, public/media affairs manager, Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality, Public Outreach and Assistance Division, 5301 Northshore Drive, North Little Rock, AR 72118. Electronic mail comments should be sent to the following address: reg-comment@adeq.state.ar.us.
Save the lake: Tell ADEQ Commission what you believe
Save the lake: Tell ADEQ what you believe
Electronic mail comments should be sent to the following address: reg-comment@adeq.state.ar.us.
Save Lake Maumelle today
Kate Althoff, a tireless advocate for protecting the safety of the Lake Maumelle water supply, notes that today is the deadline for public comments on a proposal before the state Pollution Control and Ecology Commission that would provide protection in the watershed from sewage discharges. The Commission, not known as a vigorous advocate for a pristine environment, seems reluctant to impose the rule. If you start protecting Lake Maumelle, after all, who knows where it might end? You might have to protect other water in the state from pollution, too.
She explains on the jump.
DEADLINE FOR COMMENTS TODAY
We often speak of certain items that are critical to the protection of the water quality of Lake Maumelle. There are none more critical than securing regulations that will prohibit the surface discharge of treated waste water. The computer modeling has indicated over and over again that without a doubt that just one small waste water treatment plant discharging into Lake Maumelle will clearly make it impossible to maintain safe drinking water quality – not good but safe. This is due primarily to the fact that Lake Maumelle is so small and shallow.
Lake Maumelle, and therefore the drinking water of 400,000 people, is very vulnerable at this time because, believe it or not, there is no Federal, State or local laws or regulations stopping a small or large residential developer from building their own waste water treatment plant, and dumping the treated waste into Lake Maumelle. This type of small package treatment plants are widely used across the US.
The one agency that has the authority to provide the needed regulations watershed wide is the Pollution Control and Ecology Commission. Believe it or not such a regulation is considered by the current members of the commission to be very progressive. The commission in recent hearings has indicated that they would rather this concern be addressed on a local level and therefore placing the burden on 3 counties, Pulaski, Perry, and Saline. This having been stated the Commission has begun the process, a delay version, of considering the adoption of such a regulation.
TODAY IS THE DEADLINE for the public to submit comments for consideration by the PC&E.
Written or electronic mail comments will be accepted if received no later than 4:30 p.m. June 16. Written comments should be sent to Doug Szenher, public/media affairs manager, Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality, Public Outreach and Assistance Division, 5301 Northshore Drive, North Little Rock, AR 72118. Electronic mail comments should be sent to the following address: reg-comment@adeq.state.ar.us.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Beaver Lake siltation comes from all parts of the watershed
Please click on images to enlarge view of undetained runoff entering incomplete storm drains from Aspen Ridge/Hill Place development site at 11th Street and South Duncan Avenue in Fayetteville, Arkansas, at 11:30 p.m. June 15, 2008..
Ad Hoc detention pond by the railroad at the Hill Place development site
Please click on image to ENLARGE photo of "detention" pond inadvertently created by the piling up of tons of dirt adjacent to the railroad at the southwest corner of the Aspen Ridge townhouse site two years before the land became the Hill Place apartment-complex site.
This site actually slows runoff and erosion a small amount by holding back some stormwater. However, it drains too slowly to allow it to become empty for the next rain, at least during this rainy winter and spring in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
This site actually slows runoff and erosion a small amount by holding back some stormwater. However, it drains too slowly to allow it to become empty for the next rain, at least during this rainy winter and spring in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Saturday, June 14, 2008
Removal of vegetation and adding of fill dirt creates siltation problem downstream from failed development site in the Beaver Lake watershed
Please click on image to enlarge photo of Hill Place/Aspen Ridge entry with yellow mud flowing into an unfinished storm drain at the intersection of Eleventh Street and South Duncan Avenue in Fayetteville.
Friday, June 13, 2008
Western portion of Aspen Ridge/Hill Place site after mobile homes removed but before trees were bulldozed
Please click on image to ENLARGE view of a portion of the Aspen Ridge/Hill Place site on June 15, 2004. All the trees in the photo were removed in 2005 and the rich, black soil was replaced with the yellow non-organic soil that creates the nasty runoff from there each time it rains now. The site drains to the Town Branch of the West Fork of the White River in the southwestern portion of the Beaver Lake Watershed.
Photo view is west from a gravel driveway where a mobile home sat for decades.
Photo view is west from a gravel driveway where a mobile home sat for decades.
A woman and boy wash clothing in the Town Branch of the West Fork of the White River on May 24, 2004
Please click on image to Enlarge photo of homeless laundry on May 24, 2004, near the center of what is now known as the Hill Place student-apartment project.
One question that no one brought up during the past few months as the Hill Place project went through the approval process is what will happen to this particular part of the area formerly known as Aspen Ridge. The huge culvert routes water from the University of Arkansas campus under a railroad siding embankment that linked the east/west and north/side railroads in the days before the east/west tracks were removed. Before the walking bridge was built by the Aspen Ridge developers, this was the only way to cross the Town Branch with dry feet between Eleventh Street and the old trestle at the east end of the tunnel that allowed the east/west railroad to pass under the north/south railroad.
6123homelessLaundry
One question that no one brought up during the past few months as the Hill Place project went through the approval process is what will happen to this particular part of the area formerly known as Aspen Ridge. The huge culvert routes water from the University of Arkansas campus under a railroad siding embankment that linked the east/west and north/side railroads in the days before the east/west tracks were removed. Before the walking bridge was built by the Aspen Ridge developers, this was the only way to cross the Town Branch with dry feet between Eleventh Street and the old trestle at the east end of the tunnel that allowed the east/west railroad to pass under the north/south railroad.
6123homelessLaundry
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