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[ England ] The first global audit of threatened species has revealed that 16 species of bird that were on the brink of extinction in the mid-1990s have been saved by determined conservation efforts. In a stunning illustration of what can be achieved when concerted action is taken by governments and environmental groups, some of…

[ Indiana ] A tree that can reach 90 feet in six years and be grown as a row crop on fallow farmland could represent a major replacement for fossil fuels. Purdue University researchers are using genetic tools in an effort to design trees that readily and inexpensively can yield the substances needed to produce…

The new Clinch District Ranger, Ron Bush, and his staff have agreed to attend a public hearing to discuss a proposed 400-acre timber sale they are planning for Dry Creek, a small watershed just above Dungannon in Scott County. The hearing will be held at the Dungannon Depot on Monday, Sept. 11 at 6 PM.…

Research finds sudden death oak pathogens are quick evolvers [ California ] The fight to save California ‘ s emblematic oaks from disease is gaining momentum as scientists decipher the genetic code of the microbe responsible for sudden oak death. Sudden oak death has killed more than 1 million oak trees in 14 counties along…

[ Oregon ] An unapproved type of genetically engineered grass has been found growing in the wild in what scientists say could be the first instance in the United States in which a biotechnology plant has established itself outside a farm. Ecologists at the Environmental Protection Agency said they had found a small number of…

From WaPo: Tropical Storm Ernesto advanced inland across eastern North Carolina this morning just short of hurricane strength, drenching coastal cities as the holiday weekend approached and whipping beaches as it headed toward Virginia with sustained winds of 60 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. As it advanced, it weakened, said the Weather Service…

This is fantastic! The Town of Shepherdstown PROCLAMATION Appalachian Solidarity and Accountability Resolution Whereas, the Town of Shepherdstown Council believes that accountable government and corporate responsibility are essential to building and sustaining communities that promote the environmental safety and health conditions of the families, children and people of the State of West Virginia and in…

But this is pretty cool: In the next 12 months, starting with a major push this month, Wal-Mart wants to sell every one of its regular customers — 100 million in all — one swirl bulb. In the process, Wal-Mart wants to change energy consumption in the United States, and energy consciousness, too. So, Wal-Mart…

This book presents guidelines that combine conservation science and practical experience for maintaining, enhancing, and creating connectivity between natural areas with an overarching goal of conserving biodiversity. It offers an objective, carefully interpreted review of the issues and is a one-of-a-kind resource for scientists, landscape architects, planners, land managers, decision-makers, and all those working to…