June 24, 2008
MarketMaker Website Helps Buyers in Search of Safe Tomatoes
A recent national Salmonella outbreak in some tomato varieties has sent grocery stores, restaurants and tomato product producers scrambling to find sources. One place they've been able to connect with tomato growers is through the MarketMaker website."The local tomato farmers listed on the MarketMaker website are source-verified, so consumers know where the tomatoes came from and how they were grown," said Dar Knipe, University of Illinois Extension marketing specialist.
Sandy Shetler is the website manager for MarketMaker. "I received a call from a vegetable farmer in Lancaster, Ohio who is one of the tomato producers listed on MarketMaker. He had been contacted by someone who needed uncontaminated tomatoes. His tomatoes were just turning green so he referred them to a producer in southern Illinois whose crop was a few weeks ahead of his.
"Kentucky, Georgia and Mississippi are farther south and may have tomatoes ready to sell and they all have live websites with searchable databases of producers," said Shetler. "This is a prime example of when something like the Salmonella outbreak happens, people can visit the website to find local, source-verified food."
The website began as an online database of Illinois businesses but has expanded to include 10 states whose websites are up and running: Illinois, Iowa, Indiana, Michigan, Nebraska, New York, Kentucky, Ohio, Mississippi, and Georgia. Colorado, Washington D.C. and South Carolina have websites that are under construction.
Knipe said that they partner with Land Grant Universities because they have Extension personnel. "We train the Extension educators how to enroll new entries, then they go out to the farmers and other producers and teach them how to get their business listed on the MarketMaker website and how to update their information," she said.
There is no charge associated with having a business listed on the site.
Individuals can use the MarketMaker website to search for restaurants or places to buy things like maple syrup, wine and produce direct and producers can search for farmers' markets, grocery stores and other outlets to sell their food products.
The national website is located at http://national.marketmaker.uiuc.edu/. Participating states are highlighted, making it easy for users to navigate from state to state and get data from a combination of states or from just one area.
For more information about MarketMaker, contact any member of the development team: Darlene Knipe (dknipe@uiuc.edu; 309-792-2500), Gina Backes (backes@uiuc.edu; 309-796-0512), Pat Curry (curry@uiuc.edu; 217-782-6515) or Peter Goldsmith (pgoldsmi@uiuc.edu; 217-333-5131).
MarketMaker is a collaboration between the University of Illinois Initiative for the Development of Entrepreneurship in Agriculture (IDEA), the Illinois Department of Agriculture and C-FAR (Illinois Council on Food and Agricultural Research). The project was funded by the Illinois Department of Agriculture, University of Illinois Extension, and the Illinois Council on Food and Agricultural Research (C-FAR).
Source: Darlene Knipe, Extension Specialist, Marketing and Business Development, dknipe@uiuc.edu
Posted by Ron Wolford at 7:47 PM | Permalink |
June 24, 2008
Home Depot Will Recycle Compact Fluorescent Bulbs
Home Depot will announce today that it will allow people to return old compact fluorescent bulbs to all of its stores in the United States. The creation of this recycling program for the bulbs was instigated by the concern about mercury in compact fluorescent bulbs.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 1:06 AM | Permalink |
June 22, 2008
Read Green, Live Green Summer Reading Program
The Chicago Public Library in partnership with Garfield Park Conservatory is sponsoring the Read Green, Live Green Summer Reading Program. Children ages three to fourteen are invited to explore the environment.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 9:47 AM | Permalink |
June 17, 2008
One Planet-Ours! Exhibit at U.S. Botanic Garden
The United States Botanic Garden 's summer exhibition-May 24-October 13- will focus on sustainability - not only how it applies to gardens and the landscape, but also how each of us and our communities can live for tomorrow, as well as for today.
'One Planet - Ours! Sustainability for the 22nd Century' will showcase garden displays on the Conservatory Terrace and interpretive and sculptural displays in the National Garden and Bartholdi Park.
The U.S. Botanic Garden has once again invited other organizations from around the country to participate in the exhibition: 'One Planet - Ours!' will feature government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and individuals who are leading efforts toward sustainable lifestyles. Included are the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), U.S. Department of Energy, American Horticultural Society, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Longwood Gardens, National Wildlife Federation, and many more. Tying it all together will be "Cool Globes," an exhibit of more than 40 sculptures of "whole-earth" solutions to the problems of living unsustainably.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 3:03 AM | Permalink |
June 17, 2008
Where to Recycle Your Stuff
The Chicago Recycling Coalition provides an excellent list of places to recycle or find ways to reuse everything from books to tires.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 2:38 AM | Permalink |
June 16, 2008
Getting Green Things Done With City Government Workshop
Chicago Civics 101: Getting (Green) Things Done with City Government
A political education and organizing workshop
Saturday, June 28
10AM - 1PM
Chicago Center for Green Technology:445 North Sacramento Blvd.
Learn how the city works from the people who do it everyday! Work more effectively and strategically with aldermen, ward staff, and city departments to get green things done and build the healthy neighborhood food systems we envision. This three-hour workshop will provide tools, insights, and guidance - and a chance to converse with policy makers about ways we can help them to help us, help each other.
Facilitated by:
Katy Hogan, Founder/Owner, Heartland Cafe
with Martha Boyd, Angelic Organics Learning Center's Urban Initiative in Chicago
Panel Members include:
Alderman Manny Flores, 1st ward
Alderman Toni Foulkes, 15th ward
Jay Rowell, Office of the City Clerk
Workshop Fee: $10
Includes handouts, light refreshments
SPACE IS LIMITED - REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED!
Register online or RSVP to chicago@learngrowconnect.org
Co-sponsored by Angelic Organics Learning Center, the Chicago Food Policy Advisory Council, and Heartland Cafe, with the participation of the Office of the City Clerk.
Note on Parking:
Due to the Green Corps event from 9-11:30AM, the CCGT Parking Lot will be packed when you arrive for the workshop - If you drive, continue back to the gravel area behind the Parking Lot - Or, ride your bike - Or, take public transportation!
Martha Boyd
Program Director, Urban Initiative (Chicago)
Angelic Organics Learning Center
Chicago Office: 6400 South Kimbark Avenue
Chicago, IL 60637
773.288.5462 office
773.344.7198 mobile
425.969.0317 fax
Angelic Organics Learning Center helps urban and rural people build local food systems. To find out more, visit www.learngrowconnect.org.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 7:20 PM | Permalink |
June 15, 2008
Chicago Park District Limits Pesticide Use
Each spring, park patrons may see dandelions growing in their neighborhood parks throughout Chicago, signifying a healthy, chemical-free park. The Chicago Park District is partnering with the Department of Environment and Safer Pest Control Project to offer park visitors a safer and healthier park by limiting the use of pesticides throughout the district.
Close to 90 percent of Chicago parks avoid the use of chemicals that are sprayed to control weeds. This is done in an effort to minimize the impact on our environment.
"The Park District is partnering with the Department of Environment and Safer Pest Control Project to keep our Chicago parks a healthy place for everyone to enjoy," said Tim Mitchell, Chicago Park District Superintendent and CEO. "We are encouraging all Chicago residents to follow the Park District's example and use more natural lawn care techniques that keeps your lawn safe and healthy."
"Residents can control weeds and get a naturally beautiful lawn without pesticides, which carry potential risks to human health and water quality," says Rachel Rosenberg, Executive Director of Safer Pest Control Project. "A natural lawn will help reduce disease and pest problems safely, which can over time save time and money as an extra added benefit to your family."
"We are asking everyone to consider natural alternatives to chemicals for maintaining landscapes," said Environment Commissioner Suzanne Malec-McKenna. "Options for a healthy and vibrant garden include choosing species that are adaptable to our climate, utilizing natural fertilizers, and implementing an Integrated Pest Management program."
The Chicago Park District mows turf grass to keep weeds down. Following natural lawn care basics, the Park District keeps the grass three inches high. This allows the roots to grow strong and access water deep in the ground. As a result, the taller grass naturally shades out some weeds. With the reduction in use of chemical weed killers, dandelion flowers grow back quickly, oftentimes overnight. Therefore, the sight of dandelions indicates grass that is healthy and safe for all park patrons to play on!
Four Natural Lawn Care Tips
•Water Deeply and Infrequently: This encourages deep root growth. One inch per week is ideal. You can easily measure that amount by placing a cup in your yard while watering. When your sprinkler fills it one inch deep, your watering for the week is done. Water early in the morning to minimized disease problems.
•Mow High: Keep your lawn mowed at three inches or higher. This will increase the root strength and naturally shade out weeds. Don't mow your lawn unless it needs it. This creates healthy grass that can withstand drought and stay green longer.
•Use Organic Fertilizer: Commercial fertilizers easily wash away, polluting nearby lakes and streams. Many contain toxic weed killers. Choose an organic fertilizer to capture and deliver nutrients in the lawn throughout the growing season. Keep grass clippings on the lawn as they are an excellent natural fertilizer.
•Weed Naturally: Proper lawn care maintenance naturally eliminates most weeds. Annual reseeding gives grass an advantage over weeds. Avoid using pesticides, as they can harm other beneficial living things such as bees, birds and fish. The right tool makes quick work of weeding. After pulling weeds, use grass seed and soil to fill in the hole. Your lawn will be strong and healthy as a result.
The Safer Pest Control Project is the only organization in Illinois dedicated to protecting children and their families from the serious health consequences of pesticides. Safer Pest Control Project (SPCP) works to reduce pesticide use and promotes safe, effective alternatives.
At the center of their efforts is Integrated Pest Management (IPM), a proven method that emphasizes simple, inexpensive prevention practices that cause the least harm to people and the planet. For 15 years, Safer Pest Control Project has done their work by developing model programs and policies, lobbying, building coalitions, and conducting outreach, training, and advocacy programs. For more information go to www.spcpweb.org.
- Contact Phone: 312 742 7529
Posted by Ron Wolford at 1:16 PM | Permalink |
June 14, 2008
Going Green in the Garden
Sandra Mason, a University of Illinois Horticulture Educator offers a number of great tips for "going green" in the garden.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 11:30 PM | Permalink |
June 14, 2008
David Mosena: Smart Home Interview
Watch an interview about the Smart Home with David Mosena, CEO and president of the Museum of Science and Industry.
Posted by Nancy Kreith at 12:28 PM | Permalink |
June 11, 2008
Biodiversity Project Job Openings
Hello!
The Biodiversity Project, now located in Chicago Illinois, is hiring. Please find attached the three job postings. The job titles and job descriptions are:
Director of Communications
Mississippi River Campaign Program Manager
Jennifer Browning
Executive Director
Biodiversity Project
4507 N. Ravenswood
Suite 106
Chicago IL 60640
Phone: 773-496-4020
Cell: 773-592-5002
www.biodiversityproject.org
Posted by Nancy Kreith at 11:18 AM | Permalink |
June 10, 2008
Arctic Sea Ice Loss
David Lawrence, a National Center for Atmospheric Research scientist, authored a study that indicates that increased Arctic sea ice loss might triple the rate of warming over Canada, Russia and Alaska and cause permafrost thawing.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 6:25 PM | Permalink |
June 10, 2008
New Learning Garden Forum Web Site
I recently discovered this excellent Web site. Please consider sharing your resources at GardenABCs.com Also, please notify your constituents of this wonderful resource. Anne Nagro was kind enough to add the GreenNet website link on this site, under partners. Thanks Anne.
A new, locally produced Web site is up and running that encourages educators, parents and community advocates to share their knowledge of learning gardens. GardenABCs.com is a one-stop share-site for learning how to start, maintain and improve gardens that teach children and adults about the environment, sustainability, healthy eating, core values and life skills, self-reliance, math / science / art, and more.
The goal of GardenABCs.com is to give people confidence and support when taking on these worthwhile projects. Why re-create the wheel when so many excellent garden programs can be modeled after? Visitors can find and contribute details about learning garden projects, useful links and resources; subscribe to the monthly e-zine; and post questions and suggestions in the forum.
Posted by Nancy Kreith at 11:00 AM | Permalink |
June 10, 2008
Rain Barrel Resources
Greenmaker Building Supply (Available at store)
www.greenmakersupply.com
Price: $75.00 + 10% discount to folks who say "the City sent me!"
866.702.7500
2500 N. Pulaski Road
Chicago, IL 60639
Lake Street Landscape Supply (Phone order only)
www.lakestreetlandscapesupply.com
Price: $95.00
Call 312.226.0760 to order your barrel.
1810 W. Lake Street
Chicago IL 60612
SustainDane's RainReserve Rain Barrel Systems (Online order only)
https://www.rainfordane.com/order/index.php?storecategory_id=247
Price: $89.99
608.316.6844
Madison, WI
Midwest Internet Sales (Online order only)
http://www.midwestinternetsales.com/rainbarrels.htm
Price: $124.95 (shipping included)
877.888.5609
Aaron's Rain Barrels (Online order only)
http://www.ne-design.net/
Price: $150.00 (shipping included)
978.790.1816
Posted by Nancy Kreith at 9:24 AM | Permalink |
June 10, 2008
Chicago Rain Barrel Sale
Dear Chicagoans,
The next opportunity to purchase a discounted ($40) Chicago Rain Barrel
is coming up!
City of Chicago's Environmental Resource Event
Saturday, June 21, 2008
8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
U.S. Cellular Field
333 W. 35th Street (Event entrance on 35th St.)
Chicago, IL
Drop-off your:
- old or unused prescription & non-prescription medications
- computers, cell phones, fax machines, scanners, keyboards
- hazardous household chemicals & paints
- old gas can and/or gas-powered lawn mower
Pick-up your*:
(1) rain barrel** ($40 payable by check or money order only)
(1) compost bin** ($30 payable by check or money order only)
(1) free compact fluorescent light bulb
(1) free environmentally-friendly gas can (when you trade in an old
one)
$100 rebate towards an electric or push mower (when you drop-off your
old gas-powered mower)
*Available while supplies last (no reservations accepted), limit 1 per
household per year.
**Available to City of Chicago residents only; bring check payable to
"City of Chicago" with current Chicago address; cash will not be
accepted.
Note: Financial assistance is available upon advanced request; please
contact us at 312-743-WATER (312-743-9283).
Is this date and time not convenient for you?
Don't fret! There will likely be future Environmental Resource Events
in August, September, and October on the south and east sides. We will
keep you posted. Otherwise, we encourage you to purchase a rain barrel
from one of the local retailers listed below.
Not a Chicago resident?
Cook County residents can purchase rain barrels from the Metropolitan
Water Reclamation District (MWRD), however they are currently sold out.
For more information on the MWRD Rain Barrel Program, including future
pick-up dates, locations and prices, please visit: www.mwrd.org.
Questions about rain barrels? Contact rainbarrel@cityofchicago.org or
312-743-WATER (312-743-9283).
Questions about the other opportunities at the Event? Contact (312)
744-7606.
Thank you for your interest in helping Chicago conserve water and
manage stormwater!
The Chicago Rain Barrel Team
Posted by Ron Wolford at 9:14 AM | Permalink |
June 6, 2008
Discovey Home Channel Becomes Planet Green
The Discovery Home Channel has become the only 24-hour eco-lifestyle television network. Planet Green will provide solutions and tips to making life greener.
Posted by Ron Wolford at 7:57 AM | Permalink |
