A bi-monthly digest of Current News, Events, and Opportunities related to the Hudson River Watershed, provided by the Hudson River Watershed Alliance.

NEWS

*1.  The Land Use, Energy and Environment Task Force, organized by the 2009 Quadricentennial Commission, has released a draft agenda on the future of land use, energy and environment in the Hudson Valley. This is one of six subject-specific draft agendas prepared by regional experts on Agriculture, Culture and Education, Land Use, Economic Development, Transportation and Mechanisms for Action. The report offers ten propositions, plus recommendations on how these might be achieved. To read more about, and to comment upon, these recommendations, go to www.OurHudson.org. This website is designed to give residents and friends of the Valley an opportunity to join the online conversation, respond to draft agendas and share their vision for the region.

OPPORTUNITIES

*1. EPA Seeks Small Business Input on Proposed Stormwater Rule
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is inviting small businesses and municipalities to nominate representatives to provide input on a proposed stormwater rule. The rule would strengthen the national stormwater program under the Clean Water Act (CWA) and focus on stormwater discharges from developed sites, such as subdivisions, roadways, industrial facilities, and commercial buildings or shopping centers. Selected participants would provide input to a Small Business Advocacy Review panel, which will consist of officials from EPA, the U.S. Small Business Administration and the Office of Management and Budget. As required by the Regulatory Flexibility Act, EPA is establishing this panel because the rule could have a significant economic impact on small entities. The representatives will provide input on how EPA can minimize the potential burden on small entities of the proposed regulation. Nominations must be received by August 4, 2010. More information about participating in the panel: http://www.epa.gov/sbrefa/stormwater.htm. More information about the rulemaking:http://www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/rulemaking. For more information, contact Stacy Kika, at Kika.stacy@epa.gov, or by calling 202-564-0906 or 202-564-4355.

*2. Thursday, August 5, 2010: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
America’s Great Outdoors Youth Listening Session
Next week, the leaders of the America’s Great Outdoors initiative are coming to the Hudson Valley to hear from young people of the Hudson Valley. On April 16, 2010, President Obama established the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative to develop a 21st century agenda for conserving the outdoor spaces that help make America special. The President understands that efforts to protect and restore the lands and waters that we love and to reconnect people to the outdoors must begin in our communities. For this reason, he has called upon senior government officials to host a series of public listening sessions in cities, towns and rural areas across the country. This event is hosted by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Department of the Interior, and the Environmental Protection Agency. Event is free to attend. RSVP by Tuesday, August 3 by sending an email with your name, email address, and telephone number to joseph.heller@ny.usda.gov. For more information on this initiative, please visitwww.doi.gov/americasgreatoutdoors.
Location: Henry A. Wallace Visitor and Education Center. Home of FDR and FDR Presidential Library, 4079 Albany Post Road, Hyde Park, New York 12538

*3. Friday, August 6, 2010: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Public Listening Session on the President’s America’s Great Outdoors Initiative
Please join senior representatives from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other federal agencies for a public listening session on conservation, recreation and reconnecting people to the outdoors. The session will be held Friday, August 6, from 9 a.m. to 12 noon in the Hudson River Valley. The public listening session and discussion are an opportunity for leaders of the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative to hear from you and other voices in the Hudson Valley about solutions for building a 21st-century conservation and recreation agenda and for reconnecting people with the outdoors. This event is free and open to the public. Pre-register by Tuesday, August 3 by sending an email to joseph.heller@ny.usda.gov with your name, the name of the organization with which you are affiliated, if any, and your telephone number. Include in your email your primary area of interest by noting your 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choice of the Concurrent Breakout Listening Sessions listed as follows: (1) Conservation of working farms, forests, and coastal areas. (2) Reconnecting people with the outdoors through recreation and education. (3) Creating a healthy river: Conserving and restoring important habitat and blueways. (4) General session for those who do not want to designate a specific topic. If you have questions, please contact Joseph Heller at (845) 883-7162, Extension 104 orjoseph.heller@ny.usda.gov.
Location: Marist College, Student Center. Poughkeepsie, NY.

*4. Thursday, August 12, 2010: 8 a.m. to 12 p.m., 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m.
EPA Public Meetings on Hydraulic Fracturing Research Study
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is hosting four public information meetings on the proposed study of the relationship between hydraulic fracturing and its potential impacts on drinking water, the last of which will be held in Binghamton, NY. The meetings will provide public information about the proposed study scope and design. EPA will solicit public comments on the draft study plan. The public meeting will be held in the northeast on August 12 in Binghamton, N.Y. Stakeholders are requested to pre-register for the meetings at least 72 hours before each meeting. Contact: Elias Rodriguez, (212) 637-3664,rodriguez.elias@epa.gov. More information on the meetings: http://www.epa.gov/safewater/uic/wells_hydrofrac.html
Location: Anderson Performing Arts Center at Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY

5. Hudson Basin River Watch in 3rd place in nationwide contest: Vote today and help protect Hudson Valley Streams
Hudson Basin River Watch (HBRW) has been selected as one of 10 nationwide finalists for Redwood Creek Wine 2010 Greater Outdoors Project. Their project was developed through a partnership with the Hudson River Estuary Program’s “Trees for Tribs” initiative. The goals of the “Trees for Tribs” initiative are to enhance stream buffers and recreational experiences by planting native trees & shrubs, and to monitor water quality at project sites to demonstrate improvements. Through an online voting system, the general public will decide who wins the $50,000 grant. Online voting begins April 1st and runs through August 31st. Individuals are limited to one vote per day. Individuals are limited to one vote per day and must be of legal drinking age to enter the voting website. HBRW is currently in 3rd place and needs your help to secure funding for Hudson Valley streams. Many of you have worked with HBRW to monitor streams and the Hudson River Estuary Program to plant trees in your subbasin to protect streambanks and improve water quality. This is a simple way to show your support for HBRW and the Estuary Program’s watershed initiative! Learn more about the project and cast your vote for HBRW at: blazethetrail.com/greatoutdoors/vote/. Don’t forget to vote each day and help spread the word.

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

1. Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper Announces Job Opening – Application Due August 6
The Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper is seeking a Watershed Restoration Coordinator to coordinate a waterfront landowner stewardship and habitat restoration program. The position will implement all aspects of the program including: installing small scale habitat restoration projects along the Buffalo Niagara waterfront, developing 5 landowner stewardship trainings, producing educational materials, and supervising the Restore Corps volunteer program. Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper is Western New York’s leading environmental organization focused on water issues. This is your opportunity to work in a dynamic, mission-driven nonprofit environment with a flexible work schedule and options to work from home. Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper aims to fill this position in September. For position announcement and application information, visit the www.bnriverkeeper.org/jobs. Compensation is $41,800 and there is a health insurance option available. Apply by mailing, faxing, or emailing a cover letter and resume or CV to: Kelly Mayer, Business Manager, Buffalo Niagara Riverkeeper, kmayer@bnriverkeeper.org /1250 Niagara Street, Buffalo NY 14213 / Fax: 716.885.0765. Application Deadline: August 6, 2010

*2. Position available at Audubon New York Constitution Marsh Audubon Center and Sanctuary
(http://www.constitutionmarsh.org) seeks an Education Manager. Attached is a brief job description. The sanctuary is located in Garrison, New York and is part of the state program (http://ny.audubon.org) for the National Audubon Society. Questions, resumes and cover letters can be emailed to cmacs@audubon.org.

EVENTS

*1. Friday, July 30, 2010: 3:00 PM
Katy Dunlap Goodbye Party and HRWA Celebration Fundraiser Event
Join the Hudson River Watershed Alliance in honoring departing Executive Director, Katy Dunlap, Esq for her ‘invaluable leadership and service’ as well as ‘the insightful guidance, professionalism and creative resourcefulness she has known throughout her tenure.’ Friends and colleagues of Ms. Dunlap and HRWA supporters are invited to the The Falcon in Marlborough, NY (www.liveatthefalcon.com). The event will begin at 3 pm with a reception and networking session and will continue into the evening with the internationally acclaimed swing-style jazz music of the Roswell Rudd Quartet. To attend the celebration, the cost is $30 per person ($50 per couple) that includes hor d’oeurves and a HRWA donation. Those looking to stay for the public music event are graciously asked to consider donating also to the Falcon’s collection box located at the front door. The Falcon also serves a nice dinner. The RSVP deadline has past, but walk-ins may be possible. Please contact: David Church 845-615-3840 dchurch@co.orange.ny.us

*2. Friday, July 30, 2010: 7:00 PM
Lecture by entomologist and author Douglas Tallamy at Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies
Join the Cary Institute for a lecture by entomologist and author Douglas Tallamy. Drawing from his bestselling book, Bringing Nature Home, Tallamy will discuss how using native plants in the home landscape can help protect and preserve North American wildlife. Non-native plants dominate developed areas. Selected for their attractiveness, these plants often fail to support native bees, butterflies, and other insects. When beneficial insects are lost, birds and other animals suffer. Tallamy’s message – by embracing native plants, anyone with access to a patch of earth can help sustain biodiversity. Books will be available for purchase by Merritt Bookstore. Events are free and open to the public. For more information, call (845) 677-7600 x 121 or e-mail freemanp@caryinstitute.org.
Location: Cary Institute Auditorium, located at 2801 Sharon Turnpike (Rte. 44) in Millbrook, New York.

*3. Saturday, July 31, 2010
Seventh Annual Hudson River Swim: Accompanying Kayakers still wanted
With a goal of continuing to support the first seasonal floating pool in the Hudson River in nearly a century, River Pool at Beacon, Inc. has set July 31, 2010, for its seventh annual Newburgh-to-Beacon benefit swim. Two hundred and fifty swimmers are expected to make the one-mile river crossing from the Newburgh waterfront to the Beacon Harbor. All swimmers have been asked to raise at least $100 each in sponsorship support toward the operation of the floating pool at Beacon. A fleet of volunteer kayakers will escort swimmers with support from the US Coast Guard Auxiliary and other officials. Funds raised from this year’s swim will support its operation as well as help fund the development of an adult pool. The floating pool was originally proposed by folk music legend and River Pool cofounder Pete Seeger as a modern version of the floating pools used in New York City a century ago, which he’d read about. Its goals also include educating the public about the unique aspects of the Hudson River Estuary and encouraging community stewardship of the river, while promoting swimming as a fun, healthful activity in a natural environment. Although registration for swimmers is closed, additional information about the July 31st swim, information about how to volunteer as a kayaker, along with photographs of the pool can all be found at www.riverpool.org. Contact: Betty Harkins at betharkins@aol.com or by calling 845-831-8606.

*4. Tuesday, Aug 3, 2010: 9:30 AM –11:30 AM
Hudson Highlands Land Trust Adult Fitness Challenge Hike
Kick it up a notch! Join HHLT environmental educator Cathy Bakker for the last in a series of challenging, brisk-paced hikes along some of Philipstown’s most rigorous trails. There is a small fee. To register, call the Philipstown Rec Center at 845-424-4618. For the location, which is on a rotating schedule, please contact HHLT at 845-424-3358 or the Rec Center at 845-424-4618 for dates and places.

*5. Saturday, August 14, 2010: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Stony Kill Farm Hosts Butterfly Festival
Environmental Education Center celebrates their annual Butterfly Festival. Butterflies, caterpillars and chrysalises will be the focal point at this free public event, during which a screen tent will temporarily house live butterflies for the day. Families can take turns entering the tent to get close to monarchs, eastern tiger swallowtails, spicebush swallowtails and great spangled fritillaries. The butterflies will be released during a ceremony at the closing of the event. Other activities throughout the day include butterfly crafts, nature games and learning about insects, thanks to AmeriCorps members of the Student Conservation Association. Visitors are invited to explore the paths of Stony Kill’s perennial garden to view more butterflies. Volunteers who maintain the gardens will be on hand to share information about gardening for butterflies and other wildlife. For more information, please call 845-831-8780, ext 300. Visit www.dec.ny.gov/education/1833.html for a listing of scheduled programs and activities at Stony Kill.
Location: Stony Kill Farm, 79 Farmstead Lane, Wappingers Falls, NY 12590.

*6. Saturdays – August 14, 2010, September 11, 2010, and October 9, 2010
Hudson-Athens Lighthouse Preservation Society Lighthouse Tours
Join the Society as it hosts tours to the national historically registered eight room Hudson-Athens Lighthouse. The Lighthouse was built in 1874 and is restored and maintained by the Preservation Society only. Once at the Lighthouse guests climb the metal stairs and enter the interior of the Lighthouse where they are welcomed by tour guides and Emily Brunner who lived on the lighthouse as a little girl in the 1930s and 1940s. Emily, a favorite of all visitors, relates factual stories about the life style of her father the Lightkeeper, and the entire Brunner family. The tour is an opportunity to learn about the Hudson River and its ecology, and the important role that the Hudson River played in the development of the upper Hudson River towns, and the role that the Hudson-Athens Lighthouse plays in the safe navigation of the river transportation. Tours will be held hourly. Reservations for tours are strongly suggested and can be made by calling (518) 822-1014, Hudson Cruises Company. The cost is $20 for adults, and $10 for children under 12 years of age. Scheduled school groups are welcome in October and June. For more about the history and preservation of the Lighthouse, please visit the web site: hudsonathenslighthouse.org, or call 518 828 5294. Private tours for organizations and groups of 18 or more are arranged on an individual basis.
Location: The Lighthouse is accessed by a short boat ride from either the Athens Village Riverfront Park, Athens, New York or, the Henry Hudson River Front Park, Hudson, New York.

*7. Sunday, September 12, 2010: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Hudson Highlands Land Trust Castle to Castle Hike
Members of the Osborn family will lead us from Castle Rock, the first Osborn castle built by railroad magnate William H. Osborn in 1880, to Cat Rock, built in 1919 by Frederick H. Osborn. At Cat Rock, our hosts will welcome us with hot cider and a roaring fire. Hike takes place on privately conserved land, directions will be provided when you register. All hikes are free, but space is limited. Pre-registration is required by calling (845) 424-3358. It is recommended that you call the office or check the website home page to confirm that a hike has not been cancelled, particularly in cases of inclement weather. Level of hike difficulty is Moderate/Difficult. For more information, visit http://www.hhlt.org./takeAHikeSched.html or contact HHLT at 845-424-3358.
Location: Hikers should park at Cat Rock and a shuttle to Castle Rock will be provided.