Houston Environmental News Update June 4, 2013

More News Headlines

How to improve Houston’s quality of life: Breakfast with Dr. Stephen Klineberg
“We Built This City” Reception
Livable Centers Workshop #2
Mommy & Me Outdoor Experiences
RDA’s Anything that Floats Rescheduled to June 22
Teaching the Prairie
The Center for Recycled Art – Shopping Day
HUG group for urban farmers
Livable Houston Initiative: Jay Blazek Crossley will propose Neighborhood Greenways for Houston
USGBC Texas Gulf Coast Chapter Dine-Around
Bike Around the Bay Registration is Open
When Doves Fly

HMNS Film Screening: Chasing Ice
Green Drinks Houston
Houston Re-Market
The Conservation Fund’s Houston-Galveston Green Infrastructure and Ecosystem Services Assessment
OHBA Summer Plant Series
AmeriCorps Recognizes Trinity River Refuge
Bike Texas survey
Data App: Track Texas Reservoir Levels
Tom’s of Maine 50 States for Good
Support for Climate Change Initiatives
K-12 Science and Math Projects Funded
Trinity River Refuge receives MBCC funds to purchase waterfowl habitat
TV: Texas Parks & Wildlife
Air Quality Forecast

TPWD leads efforts to restore oyster reefs and salt marshes after the 2008 hurricane (Lance Robinson – Texas Parks & Wildlife, 6/5/2013)
ULI Lays Out Its Vision For Downtown Houston And It’s Green (David Pitman – KUHF News, 6/13/2013)
Jim Blackburn: Environmental attorney, advocate, author, professor (Texas Climate News, 6/17/2013)

NEW! Memorial Park Conservancy seeks Conservation Director
Air Alliance Houston seeks Part-Time Administrative Assistant
Public Citizen (Austin) seeks Project Media Coordinator
Sierra Club seeks Community Organizer
Matagorda County seeks Extension Agent – Coastal and Marine Resources
H-GAC seeks Senior Environmental Planner, Water Quality
H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality
H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality Monitoring
H-GAC seeks Senior Air Quality Planner
The City of Houston seeks Administration Manager (Environmental)
Galveston Bay Foundation seeks Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern
HARC seeks Intern for Website Content Development and Social Media Integration
Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Volunteer/Outreach Coordinator
Hermann Park Conservancy is currently seeking a full-time office manager/bookkeeper
Texas Parks & Wildlife seeks Program Specialist I / Outdoor Diversity Specialist

CEC NOTES

More News Headlines. One of the hardest parts of putting together the CEC newsletter is choosing just three news articles to include. Did you know each week we post headlines and links to dozens of additional articles? We have articles from local news outlets as well as articles about our region that are published in state and national news outlets. Just visit www.cechouston.org to see more headlines. (On a related note… If you are a news junkie, do we have a volunteer task for you! The CEC can always use help identifying articles to share with our readers. If you are interested, just contact rachel@cechouston.org.)

COALITION NOTES

How to improve Houston’s quality of life: Breakfast with Dr. Stephen Klineberg. Join Houston Tomorrow and other area leaders for an intimate roundtable breakfast with Dr. Klineberg and hear more about his observations about how attitudes have changed in Houston – and then help address the question “What are the policy implications for these findings and how would we proceed in that direction?” The breakfast will take place on June 19, 2013, 7:30-9am, at The Houston City Club (One City Club Drive). The cost is $75 to register before noon on June 18th, and $100 late registration. Attendance is limited to 25 people in order to retain the intimacy of the conversation. Questions? Please contact Kara Niles at kara.niles@houstontomorrow.org or 713-523-5757. Register at https://org2.salsalabs.com/.
“We Built This City” Reception. Blueprint Houston invites you to a cocktail reception honoring Guy Hagstette for his significant contributions to planning in Houston. The event entitled “We Built This City” will be Thursday, June 20, 2013, in the gallery space of One Allen Center. It will benefit Blueprint Houston and its mission of assuring the creation of a General Plan for the City of Houston based on citizens’ vision, values, and goals. The event will include an architectural exhibition graciously underwritten by Nancy and Richard Kinder and others that highlights Guy’s projects as well as other noteworthy projects that have contributed to the transformation of downtown over the past 25 years. Individual tickets: $150. You may mail your check to Blueprint Houston, 3015 Richmond Avenue #201, Houston, TX 77098. More at http://www.cechouston.org/.
Livable Centers Workshop #2. The Houston-Galveston Area Council is hosting the second workshop of a three-part series focused on how to attract private development for Livable Centers Study Sponsors. Topics include: private sector incentives, private and non-traditional finance, the value-added of place, land as an incentive, and understanding the market. The workshop will be held on June 21, 2103, 8am-noon, at 3555 Timmons Lane – 2nd Floor. RSVP by Wednesday, June 19th. Please note that Livable Centers Study Sponsors and Local Governments will receive priority registration at this event. http://www.cechouston.org/
Mommy & Me Outdoor Experiences. On the 3rd Friday of every month, Armand Bayou Nature Center holds a fun class for toddler and parent activities based on a monthly theme. Reserve a place to stroll or walk with your children as guides lead hikes in various parts of the Nature Center, make a nature craft and play a game. What makes this outing great is the opportunity to be with other parents and children in nature. Classes are from 9:30 – 11am by reservation only. The cost for one adult and one child is $8. Call 281 474-2551 ext 10 to reserve your place with the group. The next class will take place on June 21, 2013, 9:30-11am, at Armand Bayou Nature Center. http://www.cechouston.org/
RDA’s Anything that Floats Rescheduled to June 22. The Rice Design Alliance’s Anything That Floats competition has been rescheduled for Saturday June 22nd! There is still time to put a team together and submit your registration form! Click here to sign up. The competition challenges participants to build a floating device to float a short distance along Buffalo Bayou using discarded building materials provided the day-of by RDA. More info on the RDA website.
Teaching the Prairie. Learn effective techniques and the latest tools for teaching guests, volunteers, and the general public about the Heartland – The Coastal Prairie. Learn To Tell A Good Prairie Story! This class will take place on June 22, 2013, 10am-2pm, at the Sheldon Lake State Park and Environmental Learning Center. The cost is just $10, and this includes lunch! The class is perfect for volunteers including Texas Master Naturalists, teachers, and docents. Registration is required. Find registration details at http://prairiepartner.org/.
The Center for Recycled Art – Shopping Day. The Center for Recycled Art is open to teachers and other nonprofits. It offers a great mix of reusable materials for art projects and inventive creating, plus gently used office supplies like binders, paper trays and more. Open one day each month at its location inside the Texas Art Asylum at 1719 Live Oak, Houston, TX 77003, the next shopping date is Saturday, June 22, 2013, from 11am-3pm. Representatives of all CEC member groups are welcome! Click here for info and to sign up to receive more details and announcements about future events.
HUG group for urban farmers. The next meeting of HUFBC or HUG’s group for urban farmers will be Monday, June 24, 2013, at 6:30 PM in the Rose Room at the Houston Garden Center. Justin Duncan will talk to us about the upcoming Texas Organic Farmers and Gardeners Association (TOFGA) conference IN HOUSTON at the end of January 2014. More information is available on the HUG website.
Livable Houston Initiative: Jay Blazek Crossley will propose Neighborhood Greenways for Houston. Houston is leading the nation in development of an ambitious regional off-road hike and bike network, the Bayou Greenways. At this Livable Houston Initiative meeting, Crossley will argue that now is the time to implement a complimentary Complete Streets approach to ensure that children in neighborhoods across Houston can safely access this investment via a proposed Neighborhood Greenways project. The Livable Houston Initiative meeting will take place on June 26, 2013 from noon-1:30pm at the H-GAC Building 2nd Floor and are free and open to the public. Bring your own lunch. http://www.cechouston.org/
USGBC Texas Gulf Coast Chapter Dine-Around. Take this opportunity to meet up with other professionals in Houston who care about the green building movement and to develop a strong community and network. Discuss what you want out of the USGBC chapter, your career goals, job and project opportunities, visions, victories, and challenges. An on-site host from the chapter will help stir up the conversation and will be your point of contact with any dietary restrictions or site questions. $30 registration includes food; drinks are handled individually. The Dine-Around will happen on June 26, 2013, from 6:30-9pm. More at http://usgbctexasgulfcoast.org/.
Bike Around the Bay Registration is Open! The Galveston Bay Foundation is excited to announce that registration for Bike Around the Bay 2013 is now open! The event will be held Saturday, October 12 through Sunday, October 13, featuring the 180-mile, full-loop route around the bay as first implemented in 2012. Bike Around the Bay is a fully supported two-day ride around Galveston Bay that showcases its natural beauty and benefits the Galveston Bay Foundation. Now in its seventh year, Bike Around the Bay began with the goal of bringing people together from all over to see and experience Galveston Bay. Proceeds benefit projects that preserve wetlands, protect natural habitat, and enhance the water quality of the bay for present users and for posterity. More at http://bikearoundthebay.org/index.htm.
When Doves Fly. Hundreds of injured, ill and orphaned doves are brought to The Wildlife Center of Texas for care each year. The common doves found in the Houston area consist of three native (Mourning, White-winged and Inca) and two non-native doves (Eurasian collared dove and Ringed Turtle-dove). Please visit the TWC website to learn more about doves from a 30-year veteran of dove rehabilitation.

COMMUNITY NOTES

HMNS Film Screening: Chasing Ice. Join oceanography and climate change researcher Dr. John B. Anderson of Rice University for a one-night-only screening of Chasing Ice at The Houston Museum of Natural Science on June 18, 3013 at 6:30pm. This is the only digital, giant-screen showing of Chasing Ice in Houston. In the film, vivid images of majestic ice caps slowly melting away are set to Academy-Award nominated soundtrack featuring Scarlett Johansson. Chasing Ice features geologist, mountaineer and award-winning photographer James Balog, who is director the Extreme Ice Survey and founder of Earth Vision Trust. Tickets for the screening are $18 for non-members and $12 for members. You can purchase tickets on the HMNS website. **Citizens Environmental Coalition Members receive $5 off regular ticket price with coupon code Lec5Off. Coupon accepted at box office and 713.639.4629, not accepted online.
Green Drinks Houston. Join Green Drinks Houston for a great networking event on June 19, 2013, 6-8pm, at D&T Drive Inn (1307 Enid). The speaker is Nell Wheeler with MetalRainTanks.com. Nell Wheeler fabricates metal rain tanks in her off-grid workshop on Houston’s north side. A master plumber with over ten years of experience in commercial plumbing, Nell now focuses on rainwater collection. She has designed and installed dozens of residential-scale rainwater harvesting systems and is keen to help others conserve water and reduce stormwater runoff. Nell is also an avid gardener and seed saver. Come learn how to Catch the Rain and Save it for a Sunny Day! http://www.cechouston.org/
Houston Re-Market. Every 4th Saturday, the Houston Re-Market takes place at the Greater East End (4302 Harrisburg Blvd) from 11am-4pm. The Houston Re-Market is an innovative market whose goal is to foster responsible consumerism. Come shop, swap, recycle, and chill! The market features approximately 10+ vendors who use recycled and reused materials and other sustainable practices in their craft. In addition there are garage sales, a free swap (bring gently used, unwanted items and taking something new home), recycling drop off (plastics 1-5 & 7, aluminum, tin, glass, paper, and cardboard), live music and entertainment, and food. The next market is on June 22, 2013. More at https://www.facebook.com/.
The Conservation Fund’s Houston-Galveston Green Infrastructure and Ecosystem Services Assessment. Join The Conservation Fund and Houston Wilderness for a Collaborative Access Program featuring the unveiling of The Conservation Fund’s Houston-Galveston Green Infrastructure and Ecosystem Services Assessment. The event will take place on June 25, 2013, 10am-12pm, at United Way of Greater Houston. Following the presentation, Houston Wilderness and The Conservation Fund will discuss how this assessment can be used to address regional needs and priorities associated with the invaluable biodiversity of our region. The program will conclude with Q&A. RSVP: Please email holly@houstonwilderness.org by 5pm June 24, 2013. http://www.cechouston.org/
OHBA Summer Plant Series. Don’t miss out on this fantastic event of delicious food, organic beer & wine, great education, the coolest people in Houston and exciting vendors. This event will take place on June 25, 2013, 4-7 pm, at 50 Waugh Drive. The cost is $15 for OHBA members and $25 for non-members. Speakers include Chris Wiesinger, President and Owner of The Southern Bulb Co. and Mike Alexander, Danny Yarbrough & Casey Sherwood of New Nurseries. More at http://www.cechouston.org/.
AmeriCorps Recognizes Trinity River Refuge. AmeriCorps National Conservation Civilian Corp-Southwest Region recognized Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) for a job well done by awarding the Refuge the Sponsor of the Round Award. They were nominated by AmeriCorps Sun 8 Team for the outstanding support the Refuge provided, helping the team to be as successful as possible in achieving their mission of National Service. The Refuge strived to make the team feel like they were at home with family by assisting team members with professional, cultural, and personal development while doing everything possible to make the team’s work as efficient and meaningful as possible. During the 5 weeks the 10 member Sun 8 team was present in April and May, the team engaged over 2,500 children while hosting educational events featuring live animals, sprayed over 50 acres of water hyacinth in Gaylor Lake, sprayed 50 acres of Chinese tallow trees around the Refuge, assisted in facilities maintenance and landscaping, ran the Earth Day events, and built and maintained 1.5 miles of new hiking trails as a part of the From Crosswalks to Boardwalks Projects. Read more at http://www.thevindicator.com/.
BikeTexas Survey. BikeTexas works to improve and grow cycling across Texas. Between now and September 2013, BikeTexas is creating a strategic plan that will guide the organization for the next three to five years. Please take 15-20 minutes to take a survey provide BikeTexas with your feedback. Your input will help BikeTexas continue to grow cycling across “the Lone Star state”. If you have any questions or would like to discuss the survey in greater detail, please contact our Executive Director, Robin Stallings, at Robin@BikeTexas.org.
Data App: Track Texas Reservoir Levels. After enduring the most intense drought in recorded state history in 2011, Texas reservoirs remain significantly low. An app has been developed that uses data collected from the Texas Water Development Board’s reservoir status tracker to show the current state of Texas’ reservoirs. The map auto-updates daily with fresh data. Read more at http://www.texastribune.org/.
Tom’s of Maine 50 States for Good. The Tom’s of Maine 50 States for Good initiative supports grassroots organizations throughout the country working to do good in their communities. In 2013, the program will provide 15 grants of $10,000 each to nonprofit organizations that address healthy, human, or environmental goodness. Eligible organizations must have operating budgets under $2 million. A review panel will select a finalist from every state and Washington, DC, and a public vote will determine which 15 of the 51 finalists will receive a grant. The deadline for submitting online nominations is 5pm ET July 8, 2013. Visit Tom’s of Maine’s website to learn more about this program and to submit an online nomination.
Support for Climate Change Initiatives. Mertz Gilmore Foundation: Climate Change Solutions. The Mertz Gilmore Foundation’s Climate Change Solutions program builds on past Foundation investments to study climate change, promote climate-friendly energy usage, and develop renewable energy sources in the United States. Grant requests are currently being accepted in the following three categories: new constituencies and approaches for a national climate movement, with a focus on pushing for strong national policy, testing new approaches to fostering leadership, and generating broader grassroots engagement; alternatives to coal-fired power plants, with priority given to coalition initiatives in the Southeastern states; and New York City-based efforts that can serve as models for large metropolitan initiatives elsewhere. Letters of inquiry for the fall 2013 grant cycle are due by August 5, 2013. Visit the Foundation’s website to learn more about the Climate Change Solutions program.
K-12 Science and Math Projects Funded. Toshiba America Foundation. The Toshiba America Foundation is dedicated to promoting quality science and mathematics education in U.S. K-12 schools. The Foundation provides grants through the following two initiatives: The Grants Program for K-5 Science and Math Education provides grants of up to $1,000 to teachers in public or private schools to help them bring innovative hands-on projects into their classrooms. The application deadline is October 1, 2013. The Grants Program for 6-12 Science and Math Education provides small grants of up to $5,000 and large grants of over $5,000 to teachers who are passionate about making science and mathematics more engaging for their students. Applications for small grants may be submitted throughout the year. The annual application deadlines for large grants are February 1 and August 1. Visit the Foundation’s website for details about each of the grant programs.
Trinity River Refuge receives MBCC funds to purchase waterfowl habitat. The Migratory Bird Conservation Commission approved $28 million in funding to conserve, restore and enhance vital wetlands. The commission approved close to $4 million in projects for land purchases and leases on three refuges with funds raised largely through the sale of Federal Duck Stamps, including one local project:
approval to acquire 81 fee acres of quality waterfowl habitat in the river floodplain for $44,700. These bottomland hardwoods and associated wetlands benefit a wide variety of waterfowl, including mallard, wood and mottled ducks.
TV: Texas Parks & Wildlife. Broadcast on KUHT Channel 8 at 3:00 PM each Saturday and on cable channels in Baytown, Deer Park, Seabrook, and on HCC. More info on the TPWD website (* indicates a segment about the Houston area).
- Lion Country
- Atlanta State Park
- Hooked on the Coast
Air Quality Forecast. http://www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/monops/forecast_today.html. Houston Clean Air Network and Realtime Ozone Mapping: http://houstoncleanairnetwork.com.
- June 18: Green–Good. Moderate winds and lower incoming background levels should help to keep air quality in the “Good” range.
- June 19: Green–Good. Moderate winds and lower incoming background levels should help to keep air quality in the “Good” range.
- June 20: Green–Good. Moderate winds and lower incoming background levels should help to keep air quality in the “Good” range.

ECONOTES Featured News Articles–For dozens of additional headlines, visit the CEC website. (You can let us know about articles, too. E-mail news@cechouston.org).

TPWD leads efforts to restore oyster reefs and salt marshes after the 2008 hurricane (Lance Robinson – Texas Parks & Wildlife, 6/5/2013)
Back in September of 2008, Hurricane Ike caused massive damage to homes and businesses in the coastal communities of the upper Texas coast. Less visible but significant damage also occurred to coastal habitats in the region and below the waters of Galveston Bay. Through a special appropriation by Congress, a $7 million fishery disaster grant was made available to Texas in 2009 from the National Oceanographic Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). These funds were earmarked for oyster and marsh habitat restoration in the affected area. TPWD employees and volunteers have since done a lot of work to restore the marsh areas.
http://www.tpwmagazine.com/
ULI Lays Out Its Vision For Downtown Houston And It’s Green (David Pitman – KUHF News, 6/13/2013)
A new report from the Urban Land Institute (ULI) is making the case for more green space in downtown Houston. The Urban Land Institute focused its study on 64 blocks of southeast downtown — bounded by Clay to the north, the Pierce Elevated to the south, Milam to the west, and U.S. 59 to the east. The institute also wants more affordable housing, and better walkable connections between various parts of downtown.
http://app1.kuhf.org/
Jim Blackburn: Environmental attorney, advocate, author, professor (Texas Climate News, 6/17/2013)
Jim Blackburn of Houston has been one of the most prominent and influential figures in the Texas environmental arena for more than three decades, often focusing on ecological and health issues in the Gulf Coast region. He plays a variety of interrelated roles – environmental attorney, environmental advocate, author, and professor at Rice University. Texas Climate News editor, Bill Dawson, recently interviewed Blackburn about about the concepts behind a one-day conference that will be held on Wednesday (“Evaluating and Trading Ecological Services: Is There a Role for Natural Capital in the Marketplace?”) and issues surrounding human-caused climate change.
http://texasclimatenews.org/

GREEN JOBS Tell them you heard about it from us! Job listings can be found at CEC’s Green Jobs page.New

NEW! Memorial Park Conservancy seeks Conservation Director. The Conservation Director of Memorial Park Conservancy (MPC) is primarily responsible for restoration and enhancement of Memorial Park’s natural environment through the use of trees and plants that are native to the area. Duties and responsibilities include: developing and maintaining inventory of park forest that identifies trees by species, area of the park and estimated age; planning and implementing plantings and irrigation within the maintained areas of the Park; planning and implementing reforestation where appropriate; working with Houston Parks and Recreation (HPARD), technical experts and consultants to study Memorial Park’s ecology and identify today’s and future requirements and constraints to restore the park’s natural ecology within the context of the long-range Master Planning process; implementing ecosystem management regimes contained in the approved Master Plan; and more. If interested, email cover letter, resume, references and compensation requirements to: Shellye Arnold, Executive Director, Memorial Park Conservancy at sarnold@memorialparkconservancy.org.
Air Alliance Houston seeks Part-Time Administrative Assistant. Air Alliance Houston is seeking a motivated individual to assist with administrative duties. This is a part-time position with approximately 20 hours per week expected. Air Alliance has a small staff that demands work sharing and flexibility. The administrative assistant will perform a variety of administrative functions including bookkeeping, bill payment, scheduling, updating office procedures and manual, and filing and document retention. Applications will be considered until the position is filled. Interested applicants should send complete resume and cover letter to hiring@airalliancehouston.org. More at http://airalliancehouston.org/.
Public Citizen (Austin) seeks Project Media Coordinator. Public Citizen (Austin, TX) is seeking a Project Media Coordinator to be a part of the Clean Coastal Commerce Coalition, committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through a reduction of coal exports. The coalition seeks to get our message out in print, radio, television and online. We are looking for an applicant who is adept at using a multi-media and communications strategy that will provide information to local and national reporters, and maintain a significant presence and following online using new media to advocate for public health and safety, government accountability, and clean and safe energy. This is an opportunity to make a difference. For more information on this job posting go to http://www.citizen.org/Page.aspx?pid=5960.
Sierra Club seeks Community Organizer. Sierra Club is looking to hire an experienced community organizer based in Austin, TX to help increase its grassroots power in the region. As a part of the history-making Beyond Coal campaign, s/he will help broaden the coalition to promote renewable energy and move beyond dirty, coal-fired power. This is an outstanding opportunity for an individual looking to enhanced his/her organizing skills and join a powerful, national team. For full details and to apply, please visit: https://ch.tbe.taleo.net/CH15/ats/careers/requisition.jsp?org=SIERRACLUB&cws=1&rid=277
Matagorda County seeks Extension Agent – Coastal and Marine Resources. The Matagorda County Extension Agent-CMR (CEA-CMR) will work with communities in Matagorda County, Texas, to help them chart a sustainable and resilient path to the future. Matagorda County is subject to damaging tropical storms, including hurricanes. Coastal communities have suffered economically as shrimp and fishing outfits have reduced their fleets in response to lower prices and higher costs. Recreational fishing is a vibrant area, and an excellent natural resource base provides for outstanding hunting and farming. Community vitality and character are major concerns in this county. Matagorda County is not in the immediate growth path of Houston, but future growth, or the lack of it, is a major community concern. The CEA-CMR will be expected to work with communities in Matagorda County by engaging a wide range of university resources in their behalf. The Matagorda CEA-CMR provides leadership for an effective educational program that supports coastal communities, local natural resources, and coastal and marine industries. Responsible for planning, implementing and evaluating an effective outcome-based program that supports identified issues in Matagorda County; responsible for effectively reporting, marketing, and interpreting results of programming efforts. Develops and works with stakeholder-based committees that provide direction for Extension programs. Works with industry and community based organizations to effectively link Extension and coastal marine resources to the community. Understands job responsibilities associated with the position. Send resume and cover letter to John Jacob, jjacob@tamu.edu.
H-GAC seeks Senior Environmental Planner, Water Quality. Responsible for facilitating stakeholder groups and developing water quality implementation plans throughout the H-GAC region. Will also take a lead role in working with wastewater and stormwater permittees to develop effective programs to reduce water pollution. Reports to Water Resources Program Manager of Community & Environmental Planning Department (C&E). Read more at www.h-gac.com/careers/.
H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality. Responsible for supporting, planning, and policy development initiatives for various watersheds in the 13-county H-GAC Region. Reports to Water Resources Program Manager of Community & Environmental Planning Department (C&E). Read more at www.h-gac.com/careers/.
H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality Monitoring. Assists with a wide range of projects related to the Water Resources Program. Supports regional efforts to improve water quality and reduce non-point source pollution. More at www.h-gac.com/Careers/.
H-GAC seeks Senior Air Quality Planner. The Senior Planner will serve as a primary staff for Transportation Air Quality Implementation Programs which may include Clean Air Action, Clean Vehicle and/or Commute Solutions activities. Coordinates and supports the efforts of local, state and federal agencies in complying with the various federal and state alternative fuel mandates and trading regulations. This position will support regional efforts to meet attainment of federal air quality standards by assisting in creatively analyzing and promoting transportation-related air quality programs and investigating other potential measures to help reduce ground level ozone. Supervised by Air Quality Coordinator. Reports to Air Quality Program Manager. Read more at www.h-gac.com/careers/.
The City of Houston seeks Administration Manager (Environmental). Duties: Manage the daily operations of the City’s Municipal Setting Designation (MSD) and Brownfield Redevelopment programs. Review and modify as necessary application forms and internal procedures to process applications. Coordinate the scheduling and attend the required public meetings and public hearing for MSD applications. Update and maintain the City of Houston’s Public Works and Engineering Geographical Information Systems MSD and Brownfield data layer and status sheet. Apply for and manage grants awarded to the City of Houston related to Brownfield Redevelopment,. Actively solicit participants in the grants, manage consultants selected to perform work and process invoices from consultants and coordinate with the Environmental Protection Agency and Texas commission on Environmental Quality, Support Utility Analysis and special projects and other duties as assigned. For more details and how to apply, visit http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/.
Galveston Bay Foundation seeks Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern. The Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) seeks a part-time, temporary Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern to assist with programs including GBF’s Water Monitoring Team, Boater Waste Education Campaign, Galveston Bay Bacteria Reduction Plan, and Clean Water Partnerships. The Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern will receive training and certifications as a GBF Water Quality Monitor (Texas Stream Team program), GBF Volunteer Bacteria Sampler, and GBF Volunteer Lab Assistant; gain field experience by carrying out a short-term research project; collect, input, and track water quality data; conduct online research on a variety of water quality topics; and participate in public outreach events and professional networking opportunities. This unpaid internship opportunity is open to current sophomore, junior, senior-level undergraduates, or graduate students working toward a degree in water resource management, environmental science, or a related field. Please see http://galvbay.org/aboutus_jobs.html for full details, duties, and qualifications. To apply, email resume and cover letter to cbohanon@galvbay.org by May 28, 2013.
HARC seeks Intern for Website Content Development and Social Media Integration. HARC is looking for a tech savvy and creative student pursuing an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree with experience using Drupal, WordPress or similar online content management system. Advanced CSS and HTML knowledge, basic Photoshop skills, PHP, MySQL, Drupal module development experience is a plus but not a requirement of the position. We are looking for a candidate with strong communications skills and an ability to perform in a team environment. Duties will include, but not be limited to: organizing and publishing content to a Drupal website; maintaining a consistent look and feel throughout all web components as defined by graphic designer; copying, editing and proofreading all web content; and assisting in the creation of a custom Drupal theme. For more information about the position and to upload a resume, please visit http://mitchell.harc.edu/About/Jobs/Job?jobID=125. HARC is a non-profit research hub located in The Woodlands, TX that provides independent analysis on energy, air, and water issues to people seeking scientific answers.
Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Volunteer/Outreach Coordinator. Responsibilities include coordinating volunteer conservation programs and events (Adopt-a-Spot, Green Team, Trash Bash, Eagle Scouts, etc.) and leading activities on-site; coordinating volunteers for BBP special events (Regatta, Kids Day, etc.) and supervising on-site; developing and implementing new and innovative initiatives to expand the volunteer base with an emphasis on corporate volunteers (team building program, communication, recognition, etc.); developing and implementing initiatives to increase awareness of Buffalo Bayou Partnership (includes but not limited to scheduling presentations, representing Buffalo Bayou Partnership at city-wide events such as Earth Day at Discovery Green Park, outreach to residents living along the bayou, speakers’ bureau, etc.); and more. If interested, please send resume and cover letter to Ann Olsen, President, Buffalo Bayou Partnership/ 1113 Vine St, Suite 200/ Houston, TX 77002, or info@buffalobayou.org (No phone calls please).
Hermann Park Conservancy is currently seeking a full-time office manager/bookkeeper. The office manager/bookkeeper is responsible for overseeing the financial management of the organization and for maintaining all financial records, from day-to-day data input to monthly closing journal entries to preparing financial statements. This position is also responsible for the day-to-day office management, including ordering and maintaining office supplies, office equipment, and payroll. This position reports to the executive director. To learn more about this opportunity, visit www.hermannpark.org.
Texas Parks & Wildlife seeks Program Specialist I / Outdoor Diversity Specialist. Based at Sheldon Lake State Park, Houston, TX. Responsibilities include: Under the direction of the Outdoor Education and Outreach Coordinator for Texas State Parks, this position serves as lead instructor for overnight camping workshops, and outdoor activity program delivery to promote the use of State Parks to non-traditional visitors. Responsible for organizing, conducting and evaluating Texas Outdoor Family workshops within the Houston-area State Parks. Serves as a community liaison between State Parks and Houston-area organizations. Develops relationships with community partners who serve diverse audiences, conduct outdoor leadership trainings to prepare group leaders and volunteers to lead overnight camping and outdoor education experiences. View the full details of the position and learn how to apply at http://agency.governmentjobs.com/tpwd/.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

CEC is sharing information during the session about what bills our member groups and readers are tracking. More information is available at www.cechouston.org/category/texas-legislature/. The last day of the regular session was Monday, May 27, 2013, followed by a special session for redistricting. On June 12, 2013, the Governor called for additional legislation to be considered during the special session. Learn more at www.legis.state.tx.us.

CEC will provide additional updates from our member groups next week. Websites with updates on environmental legislation:

ACT Texas Clean Air: www.acttexas.org.
Texas Bottle Bill www.texasbottlebill.com.
H-GAC’s Natural Resources Advisory Council: Justin Bower, senior environmental planner, is providing briefings on proposed legislation related to air, water, land use, governance of natural resources, parks and natural areas, and energy issues. The briefings are updated on a weekly basis. Please note, these documents are intended as a summary of legislation and potential impacts, and are not intended to imply a stance or position on any bill. For all questions, contact Justin Bower at 713-499-6653. Briefing Document for All Natural Resources Legislation. (By category: Air Pollution and Climate, Energy, Governance, Land Use, Miscellaneous, Parks and Natural Areas, Solid Waste, Water and Sewer Utilities, Water Conservation, Water Quality, Water Supply, Wildlife Management.)
Public Citizen Texas VOX: http://texasvox.org/82nd-legislative-session/
The Texas Observer is providing non-stop coverage of the 83rd Texas Legislature, that national laboratory of bad ideas. Make sure to visit texasobserver.org/texas-legislature each day for our Capitol reporting.

UPCOMING EVENTS If you attend one of these events, please let them know you heard about it here! Visit the new calendar at www.cechouston.org.

Tuesday, June 18, 2013

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Thursday, June 20, 2013

Friday, June 21, 2013

Saturday, June 22, 2013

Sunday, June 23, 2013

Monday, June 24, 2013

Tuesday, June 25, 2013

ABOUT THIS PUBLICATION This weekly update is brought to you by the Citizens’ Environmental Coalition, established as a 501(c)3 in 1971. CEC is a coalition of over 100 environmental organizations dedicated to fostering dialogue, education, and collaboration on environmental issues in the Houston / Gulf Coast region. Visit the CEC on line at www.cechouston.org. Do you know of something great going on? News? Events? Accomplishments? Jobs? Let us know! Send submittals to news@cechouston.org. If possible, send information by Friday for inclusion the following Tuesday. We especially like short paragraphs, catchy titles, third person, and links to more information, but we will work with whatever you send us. Calendar items can be submitted up to two years in advance. We are always looking for volunteers to help keep our calendar up to date.

CEC and other leading environmental organizations participate in payroll contribution plans at many Texas workplaces through Earth Share of Texas. Find out how you can support CEC at 800-GREENTX or www.earthshare-texas.org.

CEC agencies receive donations when you choose Green Bank. Visit www.greenbank.com for more information about the program.

Rachel Powers, Executive Director
Page Slocum, Newsletter Editor
Rachel Tardiff, Calendar Editor
(713) 524-4232
news@cechouston.org

Houston Environmental News Update June 4, 2013

Posted on June 4, 2013 by Webmaster

Houston Environmental News Update June 4, 2013

Water, Peace, and War
No newsletter June 12, 2013
New Twitter list

Rice Design Alliance
Clean Fleet Technologies Conference
World Oceans Day 2013
REI Buffalo Bayou Cleanup
Wildlife Center of Texas Volunteer Training
KPC Wild West Tour: Breeding Birds
March of the Penguins: Willow Water Hole Greenspace Conservancy Dinner and Movie Event
CWI Workshop: Urban Stream Ecology
Exploring Nature: Tree ID for the Novice
2013 Original Classroom Series: Headwaters to Baywaters
RDA’s Anything that Floats Rescheduled to June 22
EarthShare Green Quiz: Green Jobs
Texas Master Naturalist Fall 2013 Training Session
Bike Around the Bay Registration is Open

LEED Tour: George R. Brown Convention Center
Public Input Session: Restoring the Gulf Coast’s Ecosystem and Economy
Armand Bayou Watershed Council Meeting
TCEQ Agenda
OHBA Summer Plant Series
TCEQ Contested Case Hearing
Community Forestry Projects
TCEQ Non-Point Source Water Quality Grants
Clean & Resilient Marinas
Making Real Progress at Nation’s Fish Summit
TV: Texas Parks & Wildlife
Air Quality Forecast

In Houston, Too Much Fine Dust? (Kate Galbraith – The Texas Tribune, 5/30/2013)
Houston, Galveston Push for Swifter Adoption of Cleaner Fuels for Trucks (Andrew Schneider – KUHF News, 6/3/2013)
Texas Water Plan Being Questioned by Court (Kate Galbraith – The Texas
Tribune, 5/29/2013)

New! Air Alliance Houston seeks Part-Time Administrative Assistant
New! Public Citizen (Austin) seeks Project Media Coordinator
Sierra Club seeks Community Organizer
Matagorda County seeks Extension Agent – Coastal and Marine Resources
H-GAC seeks Senior Environmental Planner, Water Quality
NEW! H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality
H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality Monitoring
H-GAC seeks Senior Air Quality Planner
The City of Houston seeks Administration Manager (Environmental)
Galveston Bay Foundation seeks Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern
HARC seeks Intern for Website Content Development and Social Media Integration
Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Volunteer/Outreach Coordinator
Hermann Park Conservancy is currently seeking a full-time office manager/bookkeeper
Houston Wilderness seeks Event Planning Intern
Houston Wilderness seeks Website and Social Media Intern
Texas Parks & Wildlife seeks Program Specialist I / Outdoor Diversity Specialist
TWRC Wildlife Center seeks Wildlife Education Interns
Bayou Greenways 2020 seeks Grassroots and Digital Coordinator
Nature Discovery Center Seeks Part-Time Volunteer Coordinator

CEC NOTES

Water, Peace, and War. Every month the Asia Society hosts a monthly mixer, Leo Bar, in conjunction with a serious program, Authors on Asia. On Thursday, June 6th, in correlation with Leo Bar, our program will be with author Brahma Chellaney, who will be promoting his book Water, Peace, and War. Chellaney will be in conversation with Dr. William M. Harris, Jr., Department of Environmental Science and Studies, University of St. Thomas and recent board member of CEC. CEC is pleased to be a co-sponsor. Leo Bar mixer from 6-8 pm, program from 7-8 pm. Parking is free, cash bar, DJ, and Asian inspired food will be provided. More information is available on the Asia Society’s website: Leo Bar & Chellaney’s Water, Peace, and War event.
No newsletter June 11, 2013. Each year, the newsletter takes a short break for one week in June. Next week, we’ll be playing not newsletterring. But if you want to know what is going on, you can always visit our website, comprehensive environmental calendar, or even Twitter…
Twitter List. Many of CEC’s member organizations are on Twitter. To make it easy for your to see what they are up to, we have a webpage of just tweets from CEC member groups. You don’t have to have a Twitter account to follow along. If you do have a Twitter account–you know what to do!

COALITION NOTES

Rice Design Alliance. Forty years ago, RDA’s founders organized civic forums and published monographs calling for bayous to serve as linear parks. Today, that vision has been widely adopted. The new frontiers are trails along utility easements and RDA is helping to imagine that future. Read the online article from the new Cite about an exhibition of bold visions for the easements. That exhibition was funded in part by a grant from the 2012 RDA Initiatives for Houston program, and a 2013 grant is funding further study of possible hike and bike routes along the corridors. And, a bill passed by the Texas legislature and signed by the governor on May 16 will enable such paths to be built. Read more on the RDA website.
Clean Fleet Technologies Conference. The Clean Fleet Technologies Conference is a great way to learn, listen, and discover opportunities for alternative fuels, clean vehicle technologies, and efficiency improvements. Speakers, exhibitors, and vehicle displays will highlight the latest technologies and funding for cleaner on- and off- road fleets! The Houston region can benefit from the economic, energy security, and environmental impacts of alternative fuels. Join Houston-Galveston Area Council at the ballpark to find the best tools and fuels for your vehicles and equipment. The Keynote Speaker is Dan Frakes, Manager of Advanced Technology and Vehicle Fuels Policy at General Motors. The conference will be held on June 5, 2013, at Constellation Field (1 Stadium Dr). Registration is $50 until June 5, when it will be $60. More at http://www.h-gac.com/.
World Oceans Day 2013. Celebrate World Oceans Day 2013 with the Downtown Aquarium and Houston Zoo on June 8, 2013. The Downtown Aquarium will be celebrating from 10am-6pm with a conservation booth, scavenger hunt, and crafts. The Houston Zoo will be celebrating from 9am-3pm with a reading of the classic Dr. Seuss book, “One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish” along with other fun, kid-friendly activities. Thee will also be educational opportunities for guests to learn about marine debris and its impact on the environment. Learn more at http://worldoceansday.org/.
REI Buffalo Bayou Cleanup. Join BPA and REI volunteers for an on-the-water cleanup project from 9am-2pm at Terry Hershey Park. To RSVP, email shupp@bayoupreservation.org.
Wildlife Center of Texas Volunteer Training. The Wildlife Center depends on compassionate, caring volunteers to help care for native wildlife. They are always looking for new volunteers to help further their mission. Volunteer orientations are held the second Saturday of every month, January-September, from 10-11:30am. The next training will take place on June 8, 2013. Register at http://www.wildlifecenteroftexas.org/.
KPC Wild West Tour: Breeding Birds. Beat the heat this summer and join bird expert, Glenn Olsen, for a twilight tour of the prairie. Visit wetlands, woods, and wild grasslands in search of breeding birds and feathery fledglings. A light dinner will be included with this special trip onto KPC preserves. Wild West Tours are designed for adult learners. This class is $50 per person with dinner included. The Breeding Birds Tour will take place on June 8, 2013, from 6-9 pm at Katy Prairie Conservancy’s Indiangrass Preserve. Register at https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/.
March of the Penguins: Willow Water Hole Greenspace Conservancy Dinner and Movie Event. Join Willow Water Hole Greenspace Conservancy for a family dinner and movie event on June 8, 2013, from 6:30-9:30 pm at the South Gazebo at Willow Waterhole Conservation Reserve (5300 Dryad Drive). The movie that will be showing is ‘March of the Penguins.’ Tejano Salsa will be providing mouth watering tamales and other goodies. Bring blankets and chairs! More at http://www.cechouston.org/.
CWI Workshop: Urban Stream Ecology. The next Clean Waters Initiative Workshop covers Urban Stream Ecology. June 13, 2013 from 1:30-4pm at the Houston-Galveston Area Council offices. Speakers invited for this workshop include The Environmental Institute of Houston, Harris County Flood Control, and the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. More at www.h-gac.com/cwi.
Exploring Nature: Tree ID for the Novice. Houston is a city full of trees – they grow in our backyards and in parks throughout the city. Being able to identify these trees by sight is a practical and beneficial skill. In this 3-hour workshop, you will learn how to quickly study leaves and use field guides to identify 30 tree species native or naturalized to the Houston area. No prior botany knowledge required. Bring a small leaf-covered tree branch from home for identification. Recommended field guides will be available for sale in the Nature Shop. The workshop will take place on June 16, 2013 from 2-5pm at the Houston Arboretum & Nature Center. More at http://www.houstonarboretum.org/.
2013 Original Classroom Series: Headwaters to Baywaters. This summer Environmental Educators Exchange and Get Outdoors Houston! will be offering classes for educators (formal, informal, volunteers, homeschool, etc.) in the best classroom of all – the Great Outdoors! Week one of the classroom series begins on June 17, 2013. Classes include Katy Prairie Alive! (June 17), You and the Bayou (June 19), and Gateway to the Bay (June 21). Each class during this week will be held from 9am-2pm. You can register for individual classes ($35) or the whole week ($90) at a discounted rate. Continuing education credits available. Register at https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/. Also, get ready for the second week of the series, which begins July 21, 2013.
RDA’s Anything that Floats Rescheduled to June 22. The Rice Design Alliance’s Anything That Floats competition has been rescheduled for Saturday June 22nd! There is still time to put a team together and submit your registration form! Click here to sign up. The competition challenges participants to build a floating device to float a short distance along Buffalo Bayou using discarded building materials provided the day-of by RDA. More info on the RDA website.
EarthShare Green Quiz: Green Jobs. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, how many green jobs are there in the US?
- 700,000
- 1.6 million
- 3.4 million
- 5 million
Send EarthShare your answer for a chance to win a green prize from EarthShare.
Texas Master Naturalist Fall 2013 Training Session. Become a Certified Texas Master Naturalist! The Texas Master Naturalist Fall 2013 Training Session begins on August 17, 2013, and runs through October 30, 2013. Classes are on Tuesday evenings and field trips are on Saturdays. For more details, email training.officer@txgcmn.org, or you can visit the website of local chapters:
- Heartwood (Conroe area)
- Coastal Prairie (Rosenberg)
- Cradle of Texas (Brazoria County): training to start early 2014
- Galveston Bay Area: training to start Spring 2014
- Gulf Coast (Houston)
- Mid Coast (Matagorda County & south):
Bike Around the Bay Registration is Open! The Galveston Bay Foundation is excited to announce that registration for Bike Around the Bay 2013 is now open! The event will be held Saturday, October 12 through Sunday, October 13, featuring the 180-mile, full-loop route around the bay as first implemented in 2012. Bike Around the Bay is a fully supported two-day ride around Galveston Bay that showcases its natural beauty and benefits the Galveston Bay Foundation. Now in its seventh year, Bike Around the Bay began with the goal of bringing people together from all over to see and experience Galveston Bay. Proceeds benefit projects that preserve wetlands, protect natural habitat, and enhance the water quality of the bay for present users and for posterity. More at http://bikearoundthebay.org/index.htm.

COMMUNITY NOTES

LEED Tour: George R. Brown Convention Center. As one in a series of free tours of green buildings in Houston, you are invited to see the LEED for Existing Buildings Silver George R. Brown Convention Center, on Friday, June 7, 2013, in a guided tour of approximately 40 minutes at either 11 a.m., noon, or 1:00 p.m. TheTour will take place at 1001 Avenida De Las Americas. Please visit www.houstontx.gov/mayor/leedtour.pdf for more details and a map, and print it out to use as a ticket for free parking. See the calendar at www.codegreenhouston.org for 2013 Green Tours currently scheduled.
Public Input Session: Restoring the Gulf Coast’s Ecosystem and Economy. The Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council released the Draft Initial Comprehensive Plan: Restoring the Gulf Coast’s Ecosystem and Economy and accompanying Draft Environmental Assessment for formal public comment. The Draft Plan provides a framework to implement a coordinated region-wide restoration effort in a way that restores, protects, and revitalizes the Gulf Coast region following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The Draft Plan establishes overarching restoration goals for the Gulf Coast region; provides details about how the Council will solicit, evaluate, and fund projects and programs for ecosystem restoration in the Gulf Coast region; outlines the process for the development, review, and approval of State Expenditure Plans; and highlights the Council’s next steps. In order to ensure robust public input throughout the entire process, the Council is hosting a series of public engagement sessions in each of the five impacted Gulf States in June to give the public the opportunity to provide input on the Draft Plan and the Council’s restoration planning efforts. The 30-day formal public comment period for the Draft Plan and associated documents began May 23 and ends June 24. There will be a public input session on June 10, 2013, 6-8pm, at Texas A&M University, Galveston, Bldg 3007. Learn more at http://www.tceq.texas.gov/.
Armand Bayou Watershed Council Meeting. Wednesday, June 12, 2013, from 2;00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Armand Bayou Nature Center. In addition to essential business items, the Council will learn about outdoor recreation opportunities in the watershed, particularly those offered by the City of La Porte. View the newsletter for more information.
TCEQ Agenda. The Texas Commission of Environmental Quality will meet on June 18, 2013, in Austin. Agenda items include a concrete batch plant in Huntsville, sludge and water quality violation in Montgomery County, petroleum storage tank violations in Harris and Liberty Counties, proposed 2014 Five-Year Regional Haze State Implementation Plan Revision, new radioactive substance rules, and irrigating public parks. The proposed agenda is available on the TCEQ website.
OHBA Summer Plant Series. Don’t miss out on this fantastic event of delicious food, organic beer & wine, great education, the coolest people in Houston and exciting vendors. This event will take place on June 25, 2013, 4-7 pm, at 50 Waugh Drive. The cost is $15 for OHBA members and $25 for non-members. Speakers include Chris Wiesinger, President and Owner of The Southern Bulb Co. and Mike Alexander, Danny Yarbrough & Casey Sherwood of New Nurseries. More at http://www.cechouston.org/.
TCEQ Contested Case Hearing. On July 8, 2013, the State Office of Administrative Hearings will conduct a formal contested case hearing pertaining to the application by the Exxon Mobile Corporation for air quality permit, which would authorize construction of an expansion to the Baytown Olefins Plant located at 3525 Decker Dr, Baytown, Harris County, Texas 77520. The proposed facility will emit the following contaminants: organic compounds, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, carbon monoxide, ammonia, sulfuric acid and particulate matter including particulate matter with diameters of 10 microns or less and 2.5 microns or less. More information is available on the TCEQ’s public hearing webpage.
Community Forestry Projects. Funds Available for Community Forestry Projects through Department of Agriculture: Forest Service. The National Urban and Community Forestry Challenge Cost-Share Grant Program supports national urban and community forestry projects on non-federal public land that have a national or widespread impact and application. Pre-proposals are due July 15, 2013. The application deadline is November 15, 2013. More at http://www.fs.fed.us/ucf/nucfac.
TCEQ Non-Point Source Water Quality Grants. The TCEQ announces its annual request for grant applications (RFGA) for grants to cleanup or prevent water pollution. Applications will be accepted through July 31. More information is available on the TCEQ website.
Clean & Resilient Marinas. The Clean & Resilient Marina Guidebook is now available as a free download from the Gulf of Mexico Alliance website. The Clean & Resilient Marina Guidebook provides marina owners with useful information on tools and recommended best practices at marinas. Released by the Alliance’s Coastal Community Resilience Priority Issue Team, the guidebook can be found on the Gulf of Mexico Alliance’s website at www.gulfofmexicoalliance.org.
Making Real Progress at Nation’s Fish Summit. Imagine 600 people gathered in a room to talk about the future of fish and fishing. Think they swapped fish tales? You bet. But on-the-water stories aside, this group talked serious business. The May 2013 Managing Our Nation’s Fisheries Conference in Washington mostly addressed issues that matter to anyone who eats seafood, drops a line in the water on a weekend getaway, or makes money from fish. Learn more about the Pew Charitable Trusts’ key takeaways from the conference, which drew fishermen, conservationists, state and federal fishery managers, and congressional members and staff: www.pewenvironment.org.
TV: Texas Parks & Wildlife. Broadcast on KUHT Channel 8 at 3:00 PM each Saturday and on cable channels in Baytown, Deer Park, Seabrook, and on HCC. More info on the TPWD website (* indicates a segment about the Houston area).
- Caribbean Connection
- Lake Whitney State Park
- Outdoor Info: Sighting Your Rifle
- D Day +50
Air Quality Forecast. http://www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/monops/forecast_today.html. Houston Clean Air Network and Realtime Ozone Mapping: http://houstoncleanairnetwork.com.
- June 4: Orange–Unhealthy Sensitive–Ozone. Incoming background levels may be high enough and winds light enough for ozone to reach “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” on the north and northwest side of Houston area.
- June 5: Orange–Unhealthy Sensitive–Ozone. Incoming background levels may be high enough and winds light enough for ozone to reach “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” on the north and northwest side of Houston area.
- June 6: Yellow–Moderate–Ozone. Incoming background levels may still be high enough for ozone to reach “Moderate” or possibly higher levels on the north and northwest side of Houston.

ECONOTES Featured News Articles–For dozens of additional headlines, visit the CEC website. (You can let us know about articles, too. E-mail news@cechouston.org).

In Houston, Too Much Fine Dust? (Kate Galbraith – The Texas Tribune, 5/30/2013)
In Houston, air pollution concerns usually center on ozone. But Houston environmentalists and businesses are paying increasingly close attention to another pollutant — fine dust. It’s more dangerous than ozone, some say, and the federal government will decide by the end of next year whether the Houston area violates newly tightened federal standards. If Houston is found to be in violation of federal standards, it could be costly for local industries, which might need to install new controls to reduce dust. It could also hurt the reputation of a region that has been trying for decades to clean up its air.
https://www.texastribune.org/
Houston, Galveston Push for Swifter Adoption Of Cleaner Fuels For Trucks (Andrew Schneider – KUHF News, 6/3/2013)
The Houston-Galveston Area Council is gearing up for the region’s annual Clean Fleet Technologies Conference this week. One of the main topics for this year’s conference will be the development of cleaner-burning fuel technologies for trucks. The Houston-Galveston Area Council is currently offering an incentive program to reimburse fleet operators up to 75% of the cost for switching from gasoline or diesel power to cleaner burning fuels, such as compressed natural gas.
http://app1.kuhf.org/
Texas Water Plan Being Questioned by Court (Kate Galbraith – The Texas Tribune, 5/29/2013)
Just as Gov. Rick Perry and lawmakers finalize plans to spend $2 billion on water-supply projects around the state, a court decision could force Texas to rethink its water-planning process. Last week, Texas’ 11th Court of Appeals ruled that two regional plans feeding into the 2012 state water plan — a 300-page document that underlies the Legislature’s new water initiatives — contained conflicting recommendations.
http://www.texastribune.org/

GREEN JOBS Tell them you heard about it from us! Job listings can be found at CEC’s
Green Jobs page.

New! Air Alliance Houston seeks Part-Time Administrative Assistant. Air Alliance Houston is seeking a motivated individual to assist with administrative duties. This is a part-time position with approximately 20 hours per week expected. Air Alliance has a small staff that demands work sharing and flexibility. The administrative assistant will perform a variety of administrative functions including bookkeeping, bill payment, scheduling, updating office procedures and manual, and filing and document retention. Applications will be considered until the position is filled. Interested applicants should send complete resume and cover letter to hiring@airalliancehouston.org. More at http://airalliancehouston.org/.
New! Public Citizen (Austin) seeks Project Media Coordinator. Public Citizen (Austin, TX) is seeking a Project Media Coordinator to be a part of the Clean Coastal Commerce Coalition, committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions through a reduction of coal exports. The coalition seeks to get our message out in print, radio, television and online. We are looking for an applicant who is adept at using a multi-media and communications strategy that will provide information to local and national reporters, and maintain a significant presence and following online using new media to advocate for public health and safety, government accountability, and clean and safe energy. This is an opportunity to make a difference. For more information on this job posting go to http://www.citizen.org/Page.aspx?pid=5960.
Sierra Club seeks Community Organizer. Sierra Club is looking to hire an experienced community organizer based in Austin, TX to help increase its grassroots power in the region. As a part of the history-making Beyond Coal campaign, s/he will help broaden the coalition to promote renewable energy and move beyond dirty, coal-fired power. This is an outstanding opportunity for an individual looking to enhanced his/her organizing skills and join a powerful, national team. For full details and to apply, please visit: https://ch.tbe.taleo.net/CH15/ats/careers/requisition.jsp?org=SIERRACLUB&cws=1&rid=277
Matagorda County seeks Extension Agent – Coastal and Marine Resources. The Matagorda County Extension Agent-CMR (CEA-CMR) will work with communities in Matagorda County, Texas, to help them chart a sustainable and resilient path to the future. Matagorda County is subject to damaging tropical storms, including hurricanes. Coastal communities have suffered economically as shrimp and fishing outfits have reduced their fleets in response to lower prices and higher costs. Recreational fishing is a vibrant area, and an excellent natural resource base provides for outstanding hunting and farming. Community vitality and character are major concerns in this county. Matagorda County is not in the immediate growth path of Houston, but future growth, or the lack of it, is a major community concern. The CEA-CMR will be expected to work with communities in Matagorda County by engaging a wide range of university resources in their behalf. The Matagorda CEA-CMR provides leadership for an effective educational program that supports coastal communities, local natural resources, and coastal and marine industries. Responsible for planning, implementing and evaluating an effective outcome-based program that supports identified issues in Matagorda County; responsible for effectively reporting, marketing, and interpreting results of programming efforts. Develops and works with stakeholder-based committees that provide direction for Extension programs. Works with industry and community based organizations to effectively link Extension and coastal marine resources to the community. Understands job responsibilities associated with the position. Send resume and cover letter to John Jacob, jjacob@tamu.edu.
H-GAC seeks Senior Environmental Planner, Water Quality. Responsible for facilitating stakeholder groups and developing water quality implementation plans throughout the H-GAC region. Will also take a lead role in working with wastewater and storm water permitees to develop effective programs to reduce water pollution. Reports to Water Resources Program Manager of Community & Environmental Planning Department (C&E). Read more at www.h-gac.com/careers/.
NEW! H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality. Responsible for supporting, planning, and policy development initiatives for various watersheds in the 13-county H-GAC Region. Reports to Water Resources Program Manager of Community & Environmental Planning Department (C&E). Read more at www.h-gac.com/careers/.
H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality Monitoring. Assists with a wide range of projects related to the Water Resources Program. Supports regional efforts to improve water quality and reduce non-point source pollution. More at www.h-gac.com/Careers/.
H-GAC seeks Senior Air Quality Planner. The Senior Planner will serve as a primary staff for Transportation Air Quality Implementation Programs which may include Clean Air Action, Clean Vehicle and/or Commute Solutions activities. Coordinates and supports the efforts of local, state and federal agencies in complying with the various federal and state alternative fuel mandates and trading regulations. This position will support regional efforts to meet attainment of federal air quality standards by assisting in creatively analyzing and promoting transportation-related air quality programs and investigating other potential measures to help reduce ground level ozone. Supervised by Air Quality Coordinator. Reports to Air Quality Program Manager. Read more at www.h-gac.com/careers/.
The City of Houston seeks Administration Manager (Environmental). Duties: Manage the daily operations of the City’s Municipal Setting Designation (MSD) and Brownfield Redevelopment programs. Review and modify as necessary application forms and internal procedures to process applications. Coordinate the scheduling and attend the required public meetings and public hearing for MSD applications. Update and maintain the City of Houston’s Public Works and Engineering Geographical Information Systems MSD and Brownfield data layer and status sheet. Apply for and manage grants awarded to the City of Houston related to Brownfield Redevelopment,. Actively solicit participants in the grants, manage consultants selected to perform work and process invoices from consultants and coordinate with the Environmental Protection Agency and Texas commission on Environmental Quality, Support Utility Analysis and special projects and other duties as assigned. For more details and how to apply, visit http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/.
Galveston Bay Foundation seeks Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern. The Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) seeks a part-time, temporary Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern to assist with programs including GBF’s Water Monitoring Team, Boater Waste Education Campaign, Galveston Bay Bacteria Reduction Plan, and Clean Water Partnerships. The Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern will receive training and certifications as a GBF Water Quality Monitor (Texas Stream Team program), GBF Volunteer Bacteria Sampler, and GBF Volunteer Lab Assistant; gain field experience by carrying out a short-term research project; collect, input, and track water quality data; conduct online research on a variety of water quality topics; and participate in public outreach events and professional networking opportunities. This unpaid internship opportunity is open to current sophomore, junior, senior-level undergraduates, or graduate students working toward a degree in water resource management, environmental science, or a related field. Please see http://galvbay.org/aboutus_jobs.html for full details, duties, and qualifications. To apply, email resume and cover letter to cbohanon@galvbay.org by May 28, 2013.
HARC seeks Intern for Website Content Development and Social Media Integration. HARC is looking for a tech savvy and creative student pursuing an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree with experience using Drupal, WordPress or similar online content management system. Advanced CSS and HTML knowledge, basic Photoshop skills, PHP, MySQL, Drupal module development experience is a plus but not a requirement of the position. We are looking for a candidate with strong communications skills and an ability to perform in a team environment. Duties will include, but not be limited to: organizing and publishing content to a Drupal website; maintaining a consistent look and feel throughout all web components as defined by graphic designer; copying, editing and proofreading all web content; and assisting in the creation of a custom Drupal theme. For more information about the position and to upload a resume, please visit http://mitchell.harc.edu/About/Jobs/Job?jobID=125. HARC is a non-profit research hub located in The Woodlands, TX that provides independent analysis on energy, air, and water issues to people seeking scientific answers.
Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Volunteer/Outreach Coordinator. Responsibilities include coordinating volunteer conservation programs and events (Adopt-a-Spot, Green Team, Trash Bash, Eagle Scouts, etc.) and leading activities on-site; coordinating volunteers for BBP special events (Regatta, Kids Day, etc.) and supervising on-site; developing and implementing new and innovative initiatives to expand the volunteer base with an emphasis on corporate volunteers (team building program, communication, recognition, etc.); developing and implementing initiatives to increase awareness of Buffalo Bayou Partnership (includes but not limited to scheduling presentations, representing Buffalo Bayou Partnership at city-wide events such as Earth Day at Discovery Green Park, outreach to residents living along the bayou, speakers’ bureau, etc.); and more. If interested, please send resume and cover letter to Ann Olsen, President, Buffalo Bayou Partnership/ 1113 Vine St, Suite 200/ Houston, TX 77002, or info@buffalobayou.org (No phone calls please).
Hermann Park Conservancy is currently seeking a full-time office manager/bookkeeper. The office manager/bookkeeper is responsible for overseeing the financial management of the organization and for maintaining all financial records, from day-to-day data input to monthly closing journal entries to preparing financial statements. This position is also responsible for the day-to-day office management, including ordering and maintaining office supplies, office equipment, and payroll. This position reports to the executive director. To learn more about this opportunity, visit www.hermannpark.org.
Houston Wilderness seeks Event Planning Intern. Houston Wilderness seeks an energetic and creative individual to assist with the planning and implementation of a Houston Wilderness summer environmental adventure challenge and fundraising event. The event will highlight the Wilderness Passport which features regional parks, preserves, and nature centers in the 10 major ecoregions surrounding Houston and provide an action event for interested donors and their families. The Event Planning Intern will be able to list development and completion of the project on their resume. The Event Planning Intern will assist in planning, implementing, and promoting the event. Responsibilities include: working within event timeline; assisting with designing digital invitations; managing multiple lists of donors, supporters, and invitees; working with proprietary information; interfacing with staff, Houston Wilderness board members and participants; promoting summer event through various written and social media outlets; and managing event set up and breakdown. To apply, email a resume, cover letter, writing sample (no longer than one page, double-spaced), and three references to holly@houstonwilderness.org.
Houston Wilderness seeks Website and Social Media Intern. Houston Wilderness seeks an energetic, tech savvy, creative individual to coordinate website and social media to support regional conservation efforts. Houston Wilderness is embarking on two different website development projects – one involving its existing website and one involving a dynamic, multi-partner website with key environmental organizations around the Houston region. Working on these website projects will provide an intern with an opportunity to work on challenging web design and function as well as become involved at the ground floor with the new Get Outdoors Houston! Initiative. The intern will also have an opportunity to network with partner organizations, such as Texas Parks & Wildlife Service, Cornell lab of Ornithology, the Houston Zoo, Houston Audubon, Katy Prairie Conservancy, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Website and Social Media Intern will create and distribute digital media and content through a variety of channels to engage diverse audiences. To apply, email a resume, cover letter, writing sample (no longer than one page-double spaced), and three references to holly@houstonwilderness.org.
Texas Parks & Wildlife seeks Program Specialist I / Outdoor Diversity Specialist. Based at Sheldon Lake State Park, Houston, TX. Responsibilities include: Under the direction of the Outdoor Education and Outreach Coordinator for Texas State Parks, this position serves as lead instructor for overnight camping workshops, and outdoor activity program delivery to promote the use of State Parks to non-traditional visitors. Responsible for organizing, conducting and evaluating Texas Outdoor Family workshops within the Houston-area State Parks. Serves as a community liaison between State Parks and Houston-area organizations. Develops relationships with community partners who serve diverse audiences, conduct outdoor leadership trainings to prepare group leaders and volunteers to lead overnight camping and outdoor education experiences. View the full details of the position and learn how to apply at http://agency.governmentjobs.com/tpwd/.
TWRC Wildlife Center seeks Wildlife Education Interns. The Wildlife Education interns will assist with Summer Wildlife Camp, conduct outreach and on-site education programming, assist in the Baby Bird Feeding Program and work with other TWRC Wildlife Center interns on a Summer Internship Action Team to develop and analyze education programming, complete individual service projects and address challenges presented by the Education Coordinator. Please go to http://twrcwildlifecenter.org/ to read the full description and find out how to apply.
Bayou Greenways 2020 seeks Grassroots and Digital Coordinator. The Bayou Greenways 2020 (BG2020) project aims to create a united urban park system like no other in the nation. By developing linear parks and trails along all the major bayous that flow throughout Houston, BG2020 will add nearly 1,500 acres of additional park land to Houston’s inventory. The Grassroots and Digital Coordinator will be responsible for developing online and web strategies, creating and executing email campaigns, maintaining and managing multiple websites, and organizing and coordinating online and offline community outreach and grassroots outreach efforts. Responsibilities also include managing the organization’s relationship with online community influencers, including reaching out to external blogs and online communities. To Apply: Cover letter, resume and three references should be emailed to: Jen Powis, Advocacy Director at jen@houstonparksboard.org.
Nature Discovery Center Seeks Part-Time Volunteer Coordinator. The Nature Discovery Center is seeking a part-time Volunteer Coordinator to manage all areas related to volunteer work at the Center. The ideal candidate will be adept at working with a variety of personalities and styles, technologically savvy, and goal-oriented. Additional requirements include sense of humor and love of nature. A background in science, education, or conservation is helpful though not required. Responsibilities include: recruit, interview and place applicants for volunteer work at the Nature Discovery Center; conduct and arrange volunteer orientation and training, including the Teen Volunteer Summer Program and most special events; create and maintain a volunteer database and a system for reporting volunteer statistics; and coordinate all volunteer activity with staff. For more information about the Volunteer Coordinator position, or to apply contact: Sarah Flournoy, Executive Director at sflournoy@naturediscoverycenter.org or 713.667.6550.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

CEC is sharing information during the session about what bills our member groups and readers are tracking. More information is available at www.cechouston.org/category/texas-legislature/.

The last day of the regular session was Monday, May 27, 2013, but Governor Perry has called a 30-day special session. Learn more at www.legis.state.tx.us.

Thousands of bills have been passed by the legislature, although many are tributes of various types. For a complete list, visit http://www.legis.state.tx.us/Reports/Report.aspx?LegSess=83R&ID=passed.

Texas Bottle Bill writes that the Texas Beverage Container Recycling Incentive, HB 1473 and SB 645, were both left pending in committee. That status, “in committee,” is significant. To put it in perspective, more than 4,000 bills were filed in the House, and close to 2000 in the Senate. HB 1473 and SB 645 were among the few to be referred to a committee. Even fewer still are actually awarded a hearing (as both HB 1473 and SB 645 were). The Texas Bottle Bill Team is thanking all supporters and preparing for 2015. To stay updated, keep checking their website, Facebook, and Twitter postings.

The Texas Sierra Club provides its answer to the question, “How did Texas’ Environment Fare during the Legislative Session?” In a letter to subscribers, they highlight legislative activities related to the following goals:

Comprehensive water infrastructure
Funding for public parks and wildlife
Texas Emissions Reduction Plan
Clean and renewable energy
Sunset Reviews for Texas Public Utility Commission and Railroad
Commission
Public health and safety related to oil and gas development
Public review of environmental permitting and enforcement

Websites with updates on environmental legislation:

ACT Texas Clean Air: www.acttexas.org.
Texas Bottle Bill www.texasbottlebill.com.
H-GAC’s Natural Resources Advisory Council: Justin Bower, senior environmental planner, is providing briefings on proposed legislation related to air, water, land use, governance of natural resources, parks and natural areas, and energy issues. The briefings are updated on a weekly basis. Please note, these documents are intended as a summary of legislation and potential impacts, and are not intended to imply a stance or position on any bill. For all questions, contact Justin Bower at 713-499-6653. Briefing Document for All Natural Resources Legislation. By category: Air Pollution and Climate, Energy, Governance, Land Use, Miscellaneous, Parks and Natural Areas, Solid Waste, Water and Sewer Utilities, Water Conservation, Water Quality, Water Supply, Wildlife Management.)
Public Citizen Texas VOX: http://texasvox.org/82nd-legislative-session/
The Texas Observer is providing non-stop coverage of the 83rd Texas Legislature, that national laboratory of bad ideas. Make sure to visit texasobserver.org/texas-legislature each day for our Capitol reporting.

UPCOMING EVENTS If you attend one of these events, please let them know you heard about it here! Visit the calendar at www.cechouston.org.

CEC and other leading environmental organizations participate in payroll
contribution plans at many Texas workplaces through Earth Share of Texas.
Find out how you can support CEC at 800-GREENTX or www.earthshare-texas.org.

CEC agencies receive donations when you choose Green Bank. Visit www.greenbank.com for more information about the program.

Rachel Powers, Executive Director

Page Slocum, Newsletter Editor

Rachel Tardiff, Calendar Editor

(713) 524-4232

news@cechouston.org

Houston Environmental News Update May 28, 2013

Featured

Posted on May 28, 2013 by Page

Houston Environmental News Update May 28, 2013

No newsletter June 12, 2013
Share the CEC Newsletter

GBF Bay Day Festival
National Trails Day
- Bayou Land Conservancy Celebration
- Jones Park National Trails Day Creek Bash
- Nurture Nature Series: “TreadLightly!”
HPB Bayou Bike Tour
‘Respecting and Restoring our Bayous’ with Dave Rosgen
Clean Fleet Technologies Conference
Wildlife Center of Texas Volunteer Training
KPC Wild West Tour: Breeding Birds
March of the Penguins: Willow Water Hole Greenspace Conservancy Dinner and Movie Event
2013 Original Classroom Series: Headwaters to Baywaters
RDA’s Anything that Floats Rescheduled to June 22
Texas Master Naturalist Fall 2013 Training Session
Urban Harvest Welcomes New Executive Director
2013 AIChE Southwest Process Technology Conference

Free Family Fishing Day Event at Trinity River Refuge
Electronics Recycling
Public Input Session: Restoring the Gulf Coast’s Ecosystem and Econom
TV: Texas Parks & Wildlife
Air Quality Forecast

Sketching the Growth of the Hermann Park Garden Center (Swamplot, 5/14/2013)
Motorists to share pollution bill with industry (Matthew Tresaugue – Houston Chronicle, 5/23/2013)
Nature to keep green school running (Nancy Sarnoff – Houston Chronicle, 5/23/2013)

NEW! Sierra Club seeks Community Organizer
NEW! Matagorda County seeks Extension Agent – Coastal and Marine Resources
NEW! H-GAC seeks Senior Environmental Planner, Water Quality
NEW! H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality
NEW! H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality Monitoring
NEW! H-GAC seeks Senior Air Quality Planner
NEW! The City of Houston seeks Administration Manager (Environmental)
Galveston Bay Foundation seeks Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern
HARC seeks Intern for Website Content Development and Social Media Integration
Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Volunteer/Outreach Coordinator
Hermann Park Conservancy is currently seeking a full-time office manager/bookkeeper
Recipe for Success seeks Garden Educator Summer Interns
Houston Wilderness seeks Event Planning Intern
Houston Wilderness seeks Website and Social Media Intern
Texas Parks & Wildlife seeks Program Specialist I / Outdoor Diversity Specialist
TWRC Wildlife Center seeks Wildlife Education Interns
TWRC Wildlife Center seeks Junior Counselor Coordinator
Bayou Greenways 2020 seeks Grassroots and Digital Coordinator
Nature Discovery Center Seeks Part-Time Volunteer Coordinator
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) seeks Summer Crew Leaders

CEC NOTES

No newsletter June 12, 2013. Each year, the newsletter takes a short break for one week in June. This year, we plan to be out enjoying our environment instead of sending out the newsletter on June 11, 2013.
Share the CEC Newsletter. When was the last time you checked with your friends or co-workers to see if they know about the CEC’s weekly newsletter? Please consider asking your colleagues and friends to learn more about the newsletter and possibly sign up. Even better, use the buttons at the top right of this email to share this newsletter by email, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. We’d appreciate it!

COALITION NOTES

GBF Bay Day Festival. Join the Galveston Bay Foundation for this free family event that allows attendees to experience and learn more aboutGalveston Bay, the largest bay in Texas and one of the most productive estuaries in the country! Bay Day highlights include hands-on, interactive exhibits, activities and demonstrations that emphasize the beauty and value of Galveston Bay. Saturday, June 1, 2013, 11 am – 4 pm, Kemah Boardwalk. More information available on the GBF website.
National Trails Day. Celebrate National Trails Day on June 1, 2013! There will be thousands of events around the country including hikes, biking and horseback rides, paddling trips, birdwatching, geocaching, gear demonstrations, stewardship projects and more. Learn more about National Trails Day at http://www.americanhiking.org/national-trails-day/.
- Bayou Land Conservancy Celebration. Celebrate with Bayou Land Conservancy and GHORBA at the new 100-Acre Wood Preserve. The event will take place on June 1, 2013 from 9-11:30am. Bring your family, friends and neighbors to introduce yourself to, and work on this new two-mile trail system that is free and open to the public! RSVP required at 281-576-1634 or info@bayouland.org.
- Jones Park National Trails Day Creek Bash. Join volunteers and staff to clean up the paddle trail along Spring Creek at Jones Park. All ages are welcome to assist with the clean-up effort, and those ages 16 and older may canoe the creek to remove debris. Reservations are required and can be made beginning Wednesday, May 22. Contact is Mark Seegers at 713-755-6444/713-816-3132 or mseegers@hcp4.net. The event will take place on June 1, 2013 at 9am.
- Nurture Nature Series: “TreadLightly!” To celebrate National Trails Day on June 1, 2013, the Baytown Nature Center presents “TreadLightly” as the topic of its monthly Nurture Nature Series. TreadLightly! and its partnters lead a national initiative to protect and enhance recreation access and opportunities by promoting outdoor ethics to heighten individuals’ sense of good stewardship. BNC Naturalist, Crissy Butcher, will talk about responsible use of recreational trails using the TreadLightly principles of ethical use of the outdoors. A guided trail walk follows to practice what is learned. The event will take place from 10am-noon at the Baytown Nature Center. Admission is $3 for adults and free for children 12 & under.
HPB Bayou Bike Tour. Join the Houston Parks Board for a Bayou Bike Tour on June 1, 2013. Beginning at Market Square, a board member from the Houston Parks Board will lead a tour that loops along Buffalo Bayou to Shepherd. During the ride, attendees will discuss HPB’s signature project, Bayou Greenways 2020–the project to unite all of Houston’s bayous with parks and trails. They will also discuss how the bond vote was the first step in completing the project and where the first dollars will likely be spent. This family-friendly ride will try and beat the heat by meeting at 8 a.m. at Market Square downtown. The ride will last approximately 2 hours. Remember to RSVP, wear a helmet and bring water! More at http://www.cechouston.org/.
‘Respecting and Restoring our Bayous’ with Dave Rosgen. Bayou Preservation Association is sponsoring a lecture by Dr. Dave Rosgen, an expert on Natural Channel Design (NCD). Dr. Rosgen will speak on the destructive impacts of urbanization on waterways, discuss how Natural Channel Design methods can be applied for channel restoration, and present specific examples of urbanization impacts on Buffalo Bayou. Dr. Rosgen has been providing design reviews for the Memorial Park Demonstration Project on Buffalo Bayou. The demonstration project applies Natural Channel Design methods for restoration of Buffalo Bayou through a portion of Memorial Park. The project demonstrates the application of NCD methods to restore the channel banks from urbanization impacts, and stabilizing the most at-risk parts of our bayous. The presentation will take place at The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston in the Caroline Wiess Law Building in the Brown Auditorium (1001 Bissonnet St) on June 3, 2013 at 7pm. This is a free event & no reservations are required.
Clean Fleet Technologies Conference. The Clean Fleet Technologies Conference is a great way to learn, listen, and discover opportunities for alternative fuels, clean vehicle technologies, and efficiency improvements. Speakers, exhibitors, and vehicle displays will highlight the latest technologies and funding for cleaner on- and off- road fleets! The Houston region can benefit from the economic, energy security, and environmental impacts of alternative fuels. Join Houston-Galveston Area Council at the ballpark to find the best tools and fuels for your vehicles and equipment. The Keynote Speaker is Dan Frakes, Manager of Advanced Technology and Vehicle Fuels Policy at General Motors. The conference will be held on June 5, 2013, at Constellation Field (1 Stadium Dr). Registration is $50 until June 5, when it will be $60. More at http://www.h-gac.com/.
Wildlife Center of Texas Volunteer Training. The Wildlife Center depends on compassionate, caring volunteers to help care for native wildlife. They are always looking for new volunteers to help further their mission. Volunteer orientations are held the second Saturday of every month, January-September, from 10-11:30am. The next training will take place on June 8, 2013. Register at http://www.wildlifecenteroftexas.org/.
KPC Wild West Tour: Breeding Birds. Beat the heat this summer and join bird expert, Glenn Olsen, for a twilight tour of the prairie. Visit wetlands, woods, and wild grasslands in search of breeding birds and feathery fledglings. A light dinner will be included with this special trip onto KPC preserves. Wild West Tours are designed for adult learners. This class is $50 per person with dinner included. The Breeding Birds Tour will take place on June 8, 2013, from 6-9 pm at Katy Prairie Conservancy’s Indiangrass Preserve. Register at https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/.
March of the Penguins: Willow Water Hole Greenspace Conservancy Dinner and Movie Event. Join Willow Water Hole Greenspace Conservancy for a family dinner and movie event on June 8, 2013, from 6:30-9:30 pm at the South Gazebo at Willow Waterhole Conservation Reserve (5300 Dryad Drive). The movie that will be showing is ‘March of the Penguins.’ Tejano Salsa will be providing mouth watering tamales and other goodies. Bring blankets and chairs! More at http://www.cechouston.org/.
2013 Original Classroom Series: Headwaters to Baywaters. This summer Environmental Educators Exchange and Get Outdoors Houston! will be offering classes for educators (formal, informal, volunteers, homeschool, etc.) in the best classroom of all – the Great Outdoors! Week one of the classroom series begins on June 17, 2013. Classes include Katy Prairie Alive! (June 17), You and the Bayou (June 19), and Gateway to the Bay (June 21). Each class during this week will be held from 9am-2pm. You can register for individual classes ($35) or the whole week ($90) at a discounted rate. Continuing education credits available. Register at https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/. Also, get ready for the second week of the series, which begins July 21, 2013.
RDA’s Anything that Floats Rescheduled to June 22. The Rice Design Alliance’s Anything That Floats competition has been rescheduled for Saturday June 22nd! There is still time to put a team together and submit your registration form! Click here to sign up. The competition challenges participants to build a floating device to float a short distance along Buffalo Bayou using discarded building materials provided the day-of by RDA. More info on the RDA website.
Texas Master Naturalist Fall 2013 Training Session. Become a Certified Texas Master Naturalist! The Texas Master Naturalist Fall 2013 Training Session begins on August 17, 2013, and runs through October 30, 2013. Classes are on Tuesday evenings and field trips are on Saturdays. For more details, email training.officer@txgcmn.org.
Urban Harvest Welcomes New Executive Director. Sandra Wicoff has been named executive director of Urban Harvest, a Houston nonprofit organization. Wicoff had been executive director of The River, another nonprofit, from 2005 to 2012, and she then took over as assistant director of education with Theatre Under the Stars when the two organizations merged. “Wicoff is a strong supporter of the movement to provide access to healthy food for everyone and believes passionately in the Urban Harvest mission and its programs,” the nonprofit’s board of directors said in a statement. “In her new role at Urban Harvest, Wicoff will serve as ambassador for the organization as it continues to move forward with its strategic plan to maintain and create new partnerships that will support the organization’s mission.” Read more at http://www.bizjournals.com/.
2013 AIChE Southwest Process Technology Conference. Registration is now open for the 2013 AIChE Southwest Process Technology Conference, which will take place October 3-4, 2013 at Moody Gardens in Galveston. The conference will provide technical sessions, industry solutions in process technology, and networking opportunities. Register at http://www.aiche.org/conferences/.

COMMUNITY NOTES

Free Family Fishing Day Event at Trinity River Refuge. Trinity River National Wildlife Refuge along with the Friends of Trinity River Refuge will be hosting the annual “Free Family Fishing Day” on Saturday, June 1, 2013, from 9-11am at the Champion Lake Public Use Area. It is the one day in the state of Texas that anyone can fish or crab without a license on public waters. Fishing poles and bait will be available for those who need it along with experienced fishermen who can help children with baiting hooks and casting techniques. All ages are invited to this free event. For more information, visit http://www.cechouston.org/ or contact Stuart Marcus, Refuge Manager, at 936-336-9786.
Electronics Recycling. The City of Houston Solid Waste Department and CompuCycle are providing monthly one day E-Recyclable collection events on the first Saturday of the month at the Kingwood Metro Park & Ride lot. The next event will be on June 1, 2013, from 9am-3pm. Visit http://www.cechouston.org/ for a list of accepted items.
Public Input Session: Restoring the Gulf Coast’s Ecosystem and Economy. The Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council released the Draft Initial Comprehensive Plan: Restoring the Gulf Coast’s Ecosystem and Economy and accompanying Draft Environmental Assessment for formal public comment. The Draft Plan provides a framework to implement a coordinated region-wide restoration effort in a way that restores, protects, and revitalizes the Gulf Coast region following the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The Draft Plan establishes overarching restoration goals for the Gulf Coast region; provides details about how the Council will solicit, evaluate, and fund projects and programs for ecosystem restoration in the Gulf Coast region; outlines the process for the development, review, and approval of State Expenditure Plans; and highlights the Council’s next steps. In order to ensure robust public input throughout the entire process, the Council is hosting a series of public engagement sessions in each of the five impacted Gulf States in June to give the public the opportunity to provide input on the Draft Plan and the Council’s restoration planning efforts. The 30-day formal public comment period for the Draft Plan and associated documents began May 23 and ends June 24. There will be a public input session on June 10, 2013, 6-8pm, at Texas A&M University, Galveston, Bldg 3007. Learn more at http://www.tceq.texas.gov/.
TV: Texas Parks & Wildlife. Broadcast on KUHT Channel 8 at 3:00 PM each Saturday and on cable channels in Baytown, Deer Park, Seabrook, and on HCC. More info on the TPWD website (* indicates a segment about the Houston area).
- Hunting Dogs 101
- Davis Mountains State Park
- Lone Star Land Steward: Double H Ranch
- Crazy About Birds
Air Quality Forecast. http://www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/monops/forecast_today.html. Houston Clean Air Network and Realtime Ozone Mapping: http://houstoncleanairnetwork.com.
- May 28: Green–Good. Moderate winds and low background levels should help to keep air quality in the “Good” range.
- May 29: Green–Good. Moderate winds and low incoming background levels should help to keep air quality in the “Good” range.
- May 30: Green–Good. Moderate winds and low incoming background levels should help to keep air quality in the “Good” range statewide.

ECONOTES Featured News Articles–For dozens of additional headlines, visit the CEC website. (You can let us know about articles, too. E-mail news@cechouston.org).

Sketching the Growth of the Hermann Park Garden Center (Swamplot, 5/14/2013)
Chicago landscape architecture firm Hoerr Schaudt has presented drawings that show the future growth of the Hermann Park Garden Center when it turns 100 next year. The current 15-acre Garden Center will undergo numerous changes including a new entrance and “arid garden”.
http://swamplot.com/
Motorists to share pollution bill with industry (Matthew Tresaugue – Houston Chronicle, 5/23/2013)
Motorists will share the bill with chemical plants and oil refineries for the Houston region’s failure to meet 1970s limits on smog-forming pollution under a plan approved Wednesday by Texas environmental regulators. TCEQ would use funds already collected from vehicle fees and sales taxes to help satisfy the eight-county region’s obligations under the federal Clean Air Act.
http://www.houstonchronicle.com/
Nature to keep green school running (Nancy Sarnoff – Houston Chronicle, 5/23/2013)
On its 11-acre campus in Spring Branch, the Monarch School has started construction on a 1,120-square-foot standalone classroom designed to get its power from the sun and wind; its heat and cool air from the earth; andwater to nourish its vegetable garden from harvested rain. The small building, which is expected to cost more than $400,000, will serve as an environmental laboratory, with students controlling its daily energy use.
http://www.pressdisplay.com/

GREEN JOBS Tell them you heard about it from us! Job listings can be found at CEC’s Green Jobs page.New

NEW! Sierra Club seeks Community Organizer. Sierra Club is looking to hire an experienced community organizer based in Austin, TX to help increase its grassroots power in the region. As a part of the history-making Beyond Coal campaign, s/he will help broaden the coalition to promote renewable energy and move beyond dirty, coal-fired power. This is an outstanding opportunity for an individual looking to enhanced his/her organizing skills and join a powerful, national team. For full details and to apply, please visit: https://ch.tbe.taleo.net/CH15/ats/careers/requisition.jsp?org=SIERRACLUB&cws=1&rid=277
NEW! Matagorda County seeks Extension Agent – Coastal and Marine Resources. The Matagorda County Extension Agent-CMR (CEA-CMR) will work with communities in Matagorda County, Texas, to help them chart a sustainable and resilient path to the future. Matagorda County is subject to damaging tropical storms, including hurricanes. Coastal communities have suffered economically as shrimp and fishing outfits have reduced their fleets in response to lower prices and higher costs. Recreational fishing is a vibrant area, and an excellent natural resource base provides for outstanding hunting and farming. Community vitality and character are major concerns in this county. Matagorda County is not in the immediate growth path of Houston, but future growth, or the lack of it, is a major community concern. The CEA-CMR will be expected to work with communities in Matagorda County by engaging a wide range of university resources in their behalf. The Matagorda CEA-CMR provides leadership for an effective educational program that supports coastal communities, local natural resources, and coastal and marine industries. Responsible for planning, implementing and evaluating an effective outcome-based program that supports identified issues in Matagorda County; responsible for effectively reporting, marketing, and interpreting results of programming efforts. Develops and works with stakeholder-based committees that provide direction for Extension programs. Works with industry and community based organizations to effectively link Extension and coastal marine resources to the community. Understands job responsibilities associated with the position. Send resume and cover letter to John Jacob, jjacob@tamu.edu.
NEW! H-GAC seeks Senior Environmental Planner, Water Quality. Responsible for facilitating stakeholder groups and developing water quality implementation plans throughout the H-GAC region. Will also take a lead role in working with wastewater and storm water permitees to develop effective programs to reduce water pollution. Reports to Water Resources Program Manager of Community & Environmental Planning Department (C&E). Read more at www.h-gac.com/careers/.
NEW! H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality. Responsible for supporting, planning, and policy development initiatives for various watersheds in the 13-county H-GAC Region. Reports to Water Resources Program Manager of Community & Environmental Planning Department (C&E). Read more at www.h-gac.com/careers/.
NEW! H-GAC seeks Environmental Planner, Water Quality Monitoring. Assists with a wide range of projects related to the Water Resources Program. Supports regional efforts to improve water quality and reduce non-point source pollution. More at www.h-gac.com/Careers/.
NEW! H-GAC seeks Senior Air Quality Planner. The Senior Planner will serve as a primary staff for Transportation Air Quality Implementation Programs which may include Clean Air Action, Clean Vehicle and/or Commute Solutions activities. Coordinates and supports the efforts of local, state and federal agencies in complying with the various federal and state alternative fuel mandates and trading regulations. This position will support regional efforts to meet attainment of federal air quality standards by assisting in creatively analyzing and promoting transportation-related air quality programs and investigating other potential measures to help reduce ground level ozone. Supervised by Air Quality Coordinator. Reports to Air Quality Program Manager. Read more at www.h-gac.com/careers/.
NEW! The City of Houston seeks Administration Manager (Environmental). Duties: Manage the daily operations of the City’s Municipal Setting Designation (MSD) and Brownfield Redevelopment programs. Review and modify as necessary application forms and internal procedures to process applications. Coordinate the scheduling and attend the required public meetings and public hearing for MSD applications. Update and maintain the City of Houston’s Public Works and Engineering Geographical Information Systems MSD and Brownfield data layer and status sheet. Apply for and manage grants awarded to the City of Houston related to Brownfield Redevelopment,. Actively solicit participants in the grants, manage consultants selected to perform work and process invoices from consultants and coordinate with the Environmental Protection Agency and Texas commission on Environmental Quality, Support Utility Analysis and special projects and other duties as assigned. For more details and how to apply, visit http://agency.governmentjobs.com/houston/.
Galveston Bay Foundation seeks Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern. The Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) seeks a part-time, temporary Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern to assist with programs including GBF’s Water Monitoring Team, Boater Waste Education Campaign, Galveston Bay Bacteria Reduction Plan, and Clean Water Partnerships. The Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern will receive training and certifications as a GBF Water Quality Monitor (Texas Stream Team program), GBF Volunteer Bacteria Sampler, and GBF Volunteer Lab Assistant; gain field experience by carrying out a short-term research project; collect, input, and track water quality data; conduct online research on a variety of water quality topics; and participate in public outreach events and professional networking opportunities. This unpaid internship opportunity is open to current sophomore, junior, senior-level undergraduates, or graduate students working toward a degree in water resource management, environmental science, or a related field. Please see http://galvbay.org/aboutus_jobs.html for full details, duties, and qualifications. To apply, email resume and cover letter to cbohanon@galvbay.org by May 28, 2013.
HARC seeks Intern for Website Content Development and Social Media Integration. HARC is looking for a tech savvy and creative student pursuing an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree with experience using Drupal, WordPress or similar online content management system. Advanced CSS and HTML knowledge, basic Photoshop skills, PHP, MySQL, Drupal module development experience is a plus but not a requirement of the position. We are looking for a candidate with strong communications skills and an ability to perform in a team environment. Duties will include, but not be limited to: organizing and publishing content to a Drupal website; maintaining a consistent look and feel throughout all web components as defined by graphic designer; copying, editing and proofreading all web content; and assisting in the creation of a custom Drupal theme. For more information about the position and to upload a resume, please visit http://mitchell.harc.edu/About/Jobs/Job?jobID=125. HARC is a non-profit research hub located in The Woodlands, TX that provides independent analysis on energy, air, and water issues to people seeking scientific answers.
Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Volunteer/Outreach Coordinator. Responsibilities include coordinating volunteer conservation programs and events (Adopt-a-Spot, Green Team, Trash Bash, Eagle Scouts, etc.) and leading activities on-site; coordinating volunteers for BBP special events (Regatta, Kids Day, etc.) and supervising on-site; developing and implementing new and innovative initiatives to expand the volunteer base with an emphasis on corporate volunteers (team building program, communication, recognition, etc.); developing and implementing initiatives to increase awareness of Buffalo Bayou Partnership (includes but not limited to scheduling presentations, representing Buffalo Bayou Partnership at city-wide events such as Earth Day at Discovery Green Park, outreach to residents living along the bayou, speakers’ bureau, etc.); and more. If interested, please send resume and cover letter to Ann Olsen, President, Buffalo Bayou Partnership/ 1113 Vine St, Suite 200/ Houston, TX 77002, or info@buffalobayou.org (No phone calls please).
Hermann Park Conservancy is currently seeking a full-time office manager/bookkeeper. The office manager/bookkeeper is responsible for overseeing the financial management of the organization and for maintaining all financial records, from day-to-day data input to monthly closing journal entries to preparing financial statements. This position is also responsible for the day-to-day office management, including ordering and maintaining office supplies, office equipment, and payroll. This position reports to the executive director. To learn more about this opportunity, visit www.hermannpark.org.
Recipe for Success seeks Garden Educator Summer Interns. Recipe for Success is looking for two Garden Educator Summer Interns. The candidate will be knowledgeable and experienced in the various realms of urban agriculture, school and community garden programs, organic horticulture, food systems and youth education. For more information, visit http://recipe4success.org/get-involved/internships.html or contact Justin Myers at Justin@Recipe4Success.org.
Houston Wilderness seeks Event Planning Intern. Houston Wilderness seeks an energetic and creative individual to assist with the planning and implementation of a Houston Wilderness summer environmental adventure challenge and fundraising event. The event will highlight the Wilderness Passport which features regional parks, preserves, and nature centers in the 10 major ecoregions surrounding Houston and provide an action event for interested donors and their families. The Event Planning Intern will be able to list development and completion of the project on their resume. The Event Planning Intern will assist in planning, implementing, and promoting the event. Responsibilities include: working within event timeline; assisting with designing digital invitations; managing multiple lists of donors, supporters, and invitees; working with proprietary information; interfacing with staff, Houston Wilderness board members and participants; promoting summer event through various written and social media outlets; and managing event set up and breakdown. To apply, email a resume, cover letter, writing sample (no longer than one page, double-spaced), and three references to holly@houstonwilderness.org.
Houston Wilderness seeks Website and Social Media Intern. Houston Wilderness seeks an energetic, tech savvy, creative individual to coordinate website and social media to support regional conservation efforts. Houston Wilderness is embarking on two different website development projects – one involving its existing website and one involving a dynamic, multi-partner website with key environmental organizations around the Houston region. Working on these website projects will provide an intern with an opportunity to work on challenging web design and function as well as become involved at the ground floor with the new Get Outdoors Houston! Initiative. The intern will also have an opportunity to network with partner organizations, such as Texas Parks & Wildlife Service, Cornell lab of Ornithology, the Houston Zoo, Houston Audubon, Katy Prairie Conservancy, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Website and Social Media Intern will create and distribute digital media and content through a variety of channels to engage diverse audiences. To apply, email a resume, cover letter, writing sample (no longer than one page-double spaced), and three references to holly@houstonwilderness.org.
Texas Parks & Wildlife seeks Program Specialist I / Outdoor Diversity Specialist. Based at Sheldon Lake State Park, Houston, TX. Responsibilities include: Under the direction of the Outdoor Education and Outreach Coordinator for Texas State Parks, this position serves as lead instructor for overnight camping workshops, and outdoor activity program delivery to promote the use of State Parks to non-traditional visitors. Responsible for organizing, conducting and evaluating Texas Outdoor Family workshops within the Houston-area State Parks. Serves as a community liaison between State Parks and Houston-area organizations. Develops relationships with community partners who serve diverse audiences, conduct outdoor leadership trainings to prepare group leaders and volunteers to lead overnight camping and outdoor education experiences. View the full details of the position and learn how to apply at http://agency.governmentjobs.com/tpwd/.
TWRC Wildlife Center seeks Wildlife Education Interns. The Wildlife Education interns will assist with Summer Wildlife Camp, conduct outreach and on-site education programming, assist in the Baby Bird Feeding Program and work with other TWRC Wildlife Center interns on a Summer Internship Action Team to develop and analyze education programming, complete individual service projects and address challenges presented by the Education Coordinator. Please go to http://twrcwildlifecenter.org/ to read the full description and find out how to apply.
TWRC Wildlife Center seeks Junior Counselor Coordinator. TWRC Wildlife Center is seeking a Junior Counselor Coordinator for its Summer Wildlife Camp. The paid intern will recruit, train, schedule, and supervise teenage summer camp counselors in education animal care, wildlife summer camps, birthday parties, outreach programs, summer wildlife workshops, and in-center baby bird rehabilitation. The Junior Counselor Coordinator will implement, analyze and improve the Junior Counselor program while working hands-on with native and exotic wildlife. As a vital team member of an active non-profit, the Junior Counselor Coordinator will be called upon to develop and coordinate marketing, fundraising, or community awareness materials and events in relation to the new Junior Counselor Program. Please go to http://twrcwildlifecenter.org/ to read the full description and find out how to apply.
Bayou Greenways 2020 seeks Grassroots and Digital Coordinator. The Bayou Greenways 2020 (BG2020) project aims to create a united urban park system like no other in the nation. By developing linear parks and trails along all the major bayous that flow throughout Houston, BG2020 will add nearly 1,500 acres of additional park land to Houston’s inventory. The Grassroots and Digital Coordinator will be responsible for developing online and web strategies, creating and executing email campaigns, maintaining and managing multiple websites, and organizing and coordinating online and offline community outreach and grassroots outreach efforts. Responsibilities also include managing the organization’s relationship with online community influencers, including reaching out to external blogs and online communities. To Apply: Cover letter, resume and three references should be emailed to: Jen Powis, Advocacy Director at jen@houstonparksboard.org.
Nature Discovery Center Seeks Part-Time Volunteer Coordinator. The Nature Discovery Center is seeking a part-time Volunteer Coordinator to manage all areas related to volunteer work at the Center. The ideal candidate will be adept at working with a variety of personalities and styles, technologically savvy, and goal-oriented. Additional requirements include sense of humor and love of nature. A background in science, education, or conservation is helpful though not required. Responsibilities include: recruit, interview and place applicants for volunteer work at the Nature Discovery Center; conduct and arrange volunteer orientation and training, including the Teen Volunteer Summer Program and most special events; create and maintain a volunteer database and a system for reporting volunteer statistics; and coordinate all volunteer activity with staff. For more information about the Volunteer Coordinator position, or to apply contact: Sarah Flournoy, Executive Director at sflournoy@naturediscoverycenter.org or 713.667.6550.
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) seeks Summer Crew Leaders. SCA seeks two qualified applicants to lead, educate, and inspire high school students for the Houston Summer Crew program. Co-lead, mentor and coach a crew of 12 students, ages 14-19, while completing various conservation service projects designed to build an ethic of community and environmental stewardship. Projects include a range of activities such as trail and park maintenance, habitat restoration, revitalization of abandoned urban properties or to urban agriculture. In addition, leaders will facilitate pre- and post- program planning which includes crew training, environmental education and reporting. Training is June 3-12 and program start date is June 20. To Apply: Please visit the www.thesca.org/employment for a detailed description including information on how to apply. For questions contact SCA Houston staff at SCAHouston@theSCA.org or call: (713) 520-1835.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

CEC is sharing information during the session about what bills our member groups and readers are tracking. More information is available at www.cechouston.org/category/texas-legislature/.

The last day of the regular session was Monday, May 27, 2013, but Governor Perry has called a 30-day special session. Learn more at www.legis.state.tx.us, or in the Houston Chronicle article.

Thousands of bills have been passed by the legislature, although many are tributes of various types. For a complete list, visit http://www.legis.state.tx.us/Reports/Report.aspx?LegSess=83R&ID=passed.

Websites with updates on environmental legislation:

ACT Texas Clean Air: www.acttexas.org.
Texas Bottle Bill www.texasbottlebill.com.
H-GAC’s Natural Resources Advisory Council: Justin Bower, senior environmental planner, is providing briefings on proposed legislation related to air, water, land use, governance of natural resources, parks and natural areas, and energy issues. The briefings are updated on a weekly basis. Please note, these documents are intended as a summary of legislation and potential impacts, and are not intended to imply a stance or position on any bill. For all questions, contact Justin Bower at 713-499-6653. Briefing Document for All Natural Resources Legislation. (By category: Air Pollution and Climate, Energy, Governance, Land Use, Miscellaneous, Parks and Natural Areas, Solid Waste, Water and Sewer Utilities, Water Conservation, Water Quality, Water Supply, Wildlife Management.)
Public Citizen Texas VOX: http://texasvox.org/82nd-legislative-session/
The Texas Observer is providing non-stop coverage of the 83rd Texas Legislature, that national laboratory of bad ideas. Make sure to visit texasobserver.org/texas-legislature each day for our Capitol reporting.

UPCOMING EVENTS If you attend one of these events, please let them know you heard about it here! Visit the new calendar at www.cechouston.org.

CEC agencies receive donations when you choose Green Bank. Visit www.greenbank.com for more information about the program.

Rachel Powers, Executive Director
Page Slocum, Newsletter Editor
Rachel Tardiff, Calendar Editor
(713) 524-4232
news@cechouston.org

Houston Environmental News Update May 21, 2013

Featured

Posted on May 21, 2013 by Page

Houston Environmental News Update May 21, 2013

Recycling Unconference, May 22, 2013
CEC Earns GuideStar Exchange Seal
No Newsletter June 12, 2013

Armand Bayou Owl Prowl and Night Hike
National Trails Day
Galveston Bay Foundation: Bay Gazer Photo Contest
Environmental Awareness Roundtable: Social Media 101
HPB Bayou Bike Tour
Clean Fleet Technologies Conference
Is Houston Solar Ready? Review Available
2013 Original Classroom Series: Headwaters to Baywaters
RDA’s Anything that Floats Rescheduled to June 22
EDF & AAH submit comments to TCEQ regarding air quality in Texas City
BPA’s Planting Guide

A Conversation with Houston’s Energy Leaders
Energy Star Sales Tax Holiday
Electronics Recycling
The Boomer–news from the Friends of the Attwater Prairie Chicken Refuge
Gulf Shrimp Season
Galveston Bay Estuary Program welcomes new director
TCEQ Comment Opportunities
TV: Texas Parks & Wildlife
Air Quality Forecast

Nearby parks matter – Opinion (Houston Chronicle, 3/16/2013)
Houston’s bike boom – Opinion (Houston Chronicle, 5/17/2013)
Houston Business Plants Trees To Offset Pipeline Construction (Andrew Schneider – KUHF News, 5/15/2013)

NEW! Galveston Bay Foundation seeks Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern
HARC seeks Intern for Website Content Development and Social Media Integration
Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Volunteer/Outreach Coordinator
Hermann Park Conservancy is currently seeking a full-time office manager/bookkeeper
Guadalupe-Blanco River Trust seeks Executive Director (Seguin, TX)
The Galveston Bay Foundation seeks Wetland Permit Review Specialist
Recipe for Success seeks Garden Educator Summer Interns
Houston Wilderness seeks Event Planning Intern
Houston Wilderness seeks Website and Social Media Intern
Texas Parks & Wildlife seeks Program Specialist I / Outdoor Diversity Specialist
TWRC Wildlife Center seeks Wildlife Education Interns
TWRC Wildlife Center seeks Junior Counselor Coordinator
Bayou Greenways 2020 seeks Grassroots and Digital Coordinator
Nature Discovery Center Seeks Part-Time Volunteer Coordinator
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) seeks Summer Crew Leaders

CEC NOTES

Recycling Unconference, May 22, 2013. The Recycling Unconference is on May 22, 2013, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. Geared towards property managers, attendees will learn how to improve or create a recycling program in your building, save money by managing waste streams, and move tenants to action and participation. Organized by the USGBC-Texas Gulf Coast, in partnership with the City of Houston, the Gulf Coast Recycling Council, and the CEC. Learn more at http://usgbctexasgulfcoast.org.
CEC Earns GuideStar Exchange Seal. The CEC recently received the GuideStar Exchange Seal, a leading symbol of transparency and accountability provided by GuideStar USA, Inc., the premier source of nonprofit information. The Seal demonstrates to CEC’s vast support-base our deep commitment has in nonprofit transparency and accountability. In order to be awarded the GuideStar Exchange Seal, CEC had to fill out every required field of our report page on www.guidestar.org, including our annual report, photos, videos, etc. We hope you will check us out and tell us what you think: http://www.guidestar.org/organizations/74-1692204/citizens-environmental-coalition-educational-fund.aspx.
No newsletter June 12, 2013. Each year, the newsletter takes a short break for one week in June. This year, we plan to be out enjoying our environment instead of sending out the newsletter on June 11, 2013.

COALITION NOTES

Armand Bayou Owl Prowl and Night Hike. Join Armand Bayou on a beautiful walk through the woods to look for owls and listen to the fascinating sounds of the night. Don’t forget your walking shoes and flashlight! Ages 6 – adult. Advance reservations required. Call 281 474-2551, ext 10. These walks take place every 4th Saturday of the month from 5:00-7:00 pm. The next event will happen on May 25, 2013, at the Armand Bayou Nature Center. http://www.cechouston.org/.
National Trails Day. Celebrate National Trails Day on June 1, 2013! There will be thousands of events around the country including hikes, biking and horseback rides, paddling trips, birdwatching, geocaching, gear demonstrations, stewardship projects and more. Learn more about National Trails Day at http://www.americanhiking.org/national-trails-day/.
1. Bayou Land Conservancy Celebration. Celebrate with Bayou Land Conservancy and GHORBA at the new 100-Acre Wood Preserve. The event will take place on June 1, 2013 from 9-11:30am. Bring your family, friends and neighbors to introduce yourself to, and work on this new two-mile trail system that is free and open to the public! RSVP required at 281-576-1634 or info@bayouland.org.
2. Jones Park National Trails Day Creek Bash. Join volunteers and staff to clean up the paddle trail along Spring Creek at Jones Park. All ages are welcome to assist with the clean-up effort, and those ages 16 and older may canoe the creek to remove debris. Reservations are required and can be made beginning Wednesday, May 22. Contact is Mark Seegers at 713-755-6444/713-816-3132 or mseegers@hcp4.net. The event will take place on June 1, 2013 at 9am.
Galveston Bay Foundation: Bay Gazer Photo Contest. Do you have photos that exhibit the natural beauty of Galveston Bay? Give GBF your best shot by submitting up to three photos to the Bay Gazer Photo Contest for a chance to win cash prizes and have your photo professionally framed and showcased around the Bay Area. Submissions are being accepted through May 26th. Then come out and join us at Bay Day, at the Kemah Boardwalk on June 1, for photo judging and announcement of the winners! There are three age-based entry levels starting from age 11 and up. Submissions must represent Galveston Bay scenes, animals or people within the last year. Help celebrate nature through imagery with GBF by showcasing Galveston Bay through your lens! Learn more about the contest and submit your photos at http://galvbay.org/photo_contest.html.
Environmental Awareness Roundtable: Social Media 101. Houston-Galveston Area Council is holding an Environmental Awareness Roundtable on May 23, 2013, 8:30am-3:00pm at 3555 Timmons Lane #120. This one day course is designed for government, organizations, coordinators, and others who promote sustainable uses of watersheds. In this workshop you will learn how the media-scape (and social media) is changing the way we think about information dissemination and our own efforts to reach the public. It’s not about using social media because its popular, its about understanding how popular tools (and not so popular tools) can be used to expand the reach of important information in the most efficient way. The cost is $60 and includes lunch. More at http://www.h-gac.com/.
HPB Bayou Bike Tour. Join the Houston Parks Board for a Bayou Bike Tour on June 1, 2013. Beginning at Market Square, a board member from the Houston Parks Board will lead a tour that loops along Buffalo Bayou to Shepherd. During the ride, attendees will discuss HPB’s signature project, Bayou Greenways 2020–the project to unite all of Houston’s bayous with parks and trails. They will also discuss how the bond vote was the first step in completing the project and where the first dollars will likely be spent. This family-friendly ride will try and beat the heat by meeting at 8 a.m. at Market Square downtown. The ride will last approximately 2 hours. Remember to RSVP, wear a helmet and bring water! More at http://www.cechouston.org/.
Clean Fleet Technologies Conference. The Clean Fleet Technologies Conference is a great way to learn, listen, and discover opportunities for alternative fuels, clean vehicle technologies, and efficiency improvements. Speakers, exhibitors, and vehicle displays will highlight the latest technologies and funding for cleaner on- and off- road fleets! The Houston region can benefit from the economic, energy security, and environmental impacts of alternative fuels. Join Houston-Galveston Area Council at the ballpark to find the best tools and fuels for your vehicles and equipment. The Keynote Speaker is Dan Frakes, Manager of Advanced Technology and Vehicle Fuels Policy at General Motors. The conference will be held on June 5, 2013, at Constellation Field (1 Stadium Dr). Registration is $50 until June 5th when it will be $60. More at http://www.h-gac.com/.
Is Houston Solar Ready? Review Available. The U.S. Green Building Council-Texas Gulf Coast Chapter is pleased to announce that its first collaborative research review and publication, “Is Houston Solar Ready?” is available for download. The publication release in early spring included a panel discussion on the implementation of solar in Houston. An exhibit of the latest solar technologies in Houston was also featured. “Is Houston Solar Ready?” is a four-page collaborative publication that presents a review of the technological implementations in Houston homes, schools and commercial buildings. It also presents case studies and a record of the successes the community has had and challenges facing the use of solar energy along the Texas Gulf Coast. Download it here: http://r20.rs6.net/.
2013 Original Classroom Series: Headwaters to Baywaters. This summer Environmental Educators Exchange and Get Outdoors Houston! will be offering classes for educators (formal, informal, volunteers, homeschool, etc.) in the best classroom of all – the Great Outdoors! Week one of the classroom series begins on June 17, 2013. Classes include Katy Prairie Alive! (June 17), You and the Bayou (June 19), and Gateway to the Bay (June 21). Each class during this week will be held from 9am-2pm. You can register for individual classes ($35) or the whole week ($90) at a discounted rate. Continuing education credits available. Register at https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/. Also, get ready for the second week of the series, which begins July 21, 2013.
RDA’s Anything that Floats Rescheduled to June 22. The Rice Design Alliance’s Anything That Floats competition has been rescheduled for Saturday June 22nd! There is still time to put a team together and submit your registration form! Click here to sign up. The competition challenges participants to build a floating device to float a short distance along Buffalo Bayou using discarded building materials provided the day-of by RDA. More info on the RDA website.
EDF & AAH submit comments to TCEQ regarding air quality in Texas City. Not long ago, EDF, along with Air Alliance Houston (AAH), submitted comments to the Texas Commission for Environmental Quality (TCEQ) reflecting why we believe the proposed removal of Texas City for the pollutants benzene and hydrogen sulfide from the state’s Air Pollution Watch List (APWL) is premature.The APWL is a list of areas in Texas where concentrations of harmful pollutants exceed the state’s own health-based screening level guidelines. While inclusion on the list indicates that additional scrutiny is given to permits issued to facilities in the area, some of the APWL areas have been listed for over a decade. This is significant because exposure to these toxics may impact human health and may lead to serious health outcomes, such as birth defects or cancer. Read more on the EDF website.
BPA’s Planting Guide. Bayou Preservation Association debuted The Bayou Planting Guide, a book designed to educate Houstonians on how to plant native trees, vines and plants. Funded in part by the Garden Club of Houston, the new plant guide informs avid gardeners and novices alike about “good” non-invasive plants. View the full online version of The Bayou Planting Guide. More at http://www.bayoupreservation.org/.

COMMUNITY NOTES

A Conversation with Houston’s Energy Leaders. Editor B. Candace Beeke will interview Merrill “Pete” Miller, CEO of National Oilwell Varco Inc., who will discuss U.S. energy policy, exporting liquefied natural gas, regulations on the energy industry and the perception of the energy industry by those outside Texas. The interview will be followed by a panel discussion from Houston energy leaders who will discuss what the current energy boom means for your company and where it’s headed next. The conversation will happen on May 23, 2013, 7-9:30am, at Hotel Zaza (5701 Main Street). Cost for a single ticket is $75. Learn more at http://www.bizjournals.com/.
Energy Star Sales Tax Holiday. During Memorial Day weekend, Texas shoppers get a break from state and local sales and use taxes on purchases of certain energy efficient products. The 2013 ENERGY STAR sales tax holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. (after midnight) on Saturday, May 25, 2013 and ends at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, May 27 (Memorial Day). Find out which products qualify for exemption at http://www.cechouston.org/.
Electronics Recycling. The City of Houston Solid Waste Department and CompuCycle are providing monthly one day E-Recyclable collection events on the first Saturday of the month at the Kingwood Metro Park & Ride lot. The next event will be on June 1, 2013, from 9am-3pm. Visit http://www.cechouston.org/ for a list of accepted items.
The Boomer–news from the Friends of the Attwater Prairie Chicken Refuge. This quarter’s Boomer reports on research into the effect of fire ants on the APC, the great success of the annual Booming-N-Bloomin festival, the student art contest winner, a fan from Scotland, and volunteer opportunities, among other things. More information about the Friends group is available at www.attwater.org.
Gulf Shrimp Season. The Gulf of Mexico commercial shrimp season for both Texas and federal waters will close 30 minutes after sunset on May 23 until a still-to-be determined time in July. The closing date is based on samples collected by the Coastal Fisheries Division of the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department using trawl, bag seine and other information gathered from the shrimping industry. Data collected regarding TPWD bag seine catch rates of brown shrimp, mean lengths of shrimp in April 2013, percent of samples containing shrimp, and periods of maximum nocturnal ebb tidal flow indicate a May 23 closing date is appropriate. Typically, once the shrimp reach about 3 1/2 inches long, they begin their migration to the gulf. More info on the TPWD website.
Galveston Bay Estuary Program welcomes new director. Dr. Sarah P. Bernhardt is the new Program Manager of the Galveston Bay Estuary Program. She began her duties on May 6, 2013. Sarah received a Ph.D. in coastal and environmental planning and an M.S. in invertebrate zoology from Texas A&M University in College Station, and a Bachelor’s degree focused on marine ecology from Miami University of Ohio. Sarah’s research experience includes long term monitoring of coral reefs and hard bottom habitats, epiphyte colonization of sea grass, coastal flood response by planning agencies, wetlands permitting, public participation and resolution of stakeholder conflicts in multiple use areas. She participated in numerous NOAA sponsored research cruises in the Gulf of Mexico as a researcher, educator and NOAA scientific diver. Sarah has been a lifelong environmental educator, with experience training volunteers in outdoor education and marine education, working with students from elementary school through university, and interacting with diverse stakeholder groups including teachers, aquaria, oil & gas companies, and the tourism industry.
TCEQ Comment Opportunities. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality has the following opportunities to provide comment:
- Water Quality TMDLs in the region: TCEQ’s TMDL website for Houston Area TMDLs.
- June 5, 2013, TCEQ Agenda meeting (includes water rights in the Colorado, radioactive substance rules, and various agreed orders: TCEQ agenda.
TV: Texas Parks & Wildlife. Broadcast on KUHT Channel 8 at 3:00 PM each Saturday and on cable channels in Baytown, Deer Park, Seabrook, and on HCC. More info on the TPWD website (* indicates a segment about the Houston area).
- Native Texan Duck
- Lone Star Land Steward: Colonel Burns Ranch
- Wild Things: Black Capped Vireos
- A Day at Pedernales
Air Quality Forecast. http://www.tceq.texas.gov/airquality/monops/forecast_today.html. Houston Clean Air Network and Realtime Ozone Mapping: http://houstoncleanairnetwork.com.
- May 21: Yellow–Moderate–Ozone. Smoke from agricultural burning in Mexico and Central America should continue over the eastern two thirds of the state along and east of a line from Del Rio to San Angelo to Gainesville and will likely raise the daily PM2.5 AQI to “Moderate” or possibly higher levels in much of this area.
- May 22: Yellow–Moderate–Ozone. Smoke from agricultural burning in Mexico and Central America should continue over South, Central, and Southeast Texas and will likely raise the daily PM2.5 AQI to “Moderate” levels in much of this area.
- May 23: Yellow–Moderate–Ozone. Winds may be light enough and incoming background levels high enough for ozone to reach “Moderate” levels on the north and northwest side of the Houston area with highest concentrations in the afternoon and early evening.

ECONOTES Featured News Articles–For dozens of additional headlines, visit the CEC website. (You can let us know about articles, too. E-mail news@cechouston.org).

Nearby parks matter – Opinion (Houston Chronicle, 3/16/2013)
Last year, the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s budget was slashed. Since last session, tax revenues have recovered, but TPWD’s funding may not. Their funding has been placed in the budget’s Article XI – what legislators call “the wish list.” As Texas’ population grows, local parks are becoming ever more important and the price of the land to create those parks is rising – and not likely to drop again.
http://www.chron.com/
Houston’s bike boom – Opinion (Houston Chronicle, 5/17/2013)
Houston is making big strides in becoming a more bicycle-friendly city. Governor Rick Perry just signed a bill that will help open Houston’s utility easements to hike and bike trails, potentially adding more than 100 miles of north-south routes to connect with east-west bayou greenways. And City Hall recently approved a safe pass ordinance to protect bikers in the street. Thanks to federal grants and support from the private sector, Houston may soon see some bicycle lanes downtown, likely along McKinney St., Walker St. and Lamar St., connecting Discovery Green with Buffalo Bayou Park.
http://www.chron.com/
Houston Business Plants Trees To Offset Pipeline Construction (Andrew Schneider – KUHF News, 5/15/2013)
Resource Environmental Solutions, a Montrose-based company, has planted nearly 6 million trees to offset the effect of economic development on vulnerable wetlands. The business focuses on offsetting pipeline construction in shale plays throughout the United States.
http://app1.kuhf.org/

GREEN JOBS Tell them you heard about it from us! Job listings can be found at CEC’s Green Jobs page.New

NEW! Galveston Bay Foundation seeks Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern. The Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) seeks a part-time, temporary Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern to assist with programs including GBF’s Water Monitoring Team, Boater Waste Education Campaign, Galveston Bay Bacteria Reduction Plan, and Clean Water Partnerships. The Volunteer Water Quality Summer Intern will receive training and certifications as a GBF Water Quality Monitor (Texas Stream Team program), GBF Volunteer Bacteria Sampler, and GBF Volunteer Lab Assistant; gain field experience by carrying out a short-term research project; collect, input, and track water quality data; conduct online research on a variety of water quality topics; and participate in public outreach events and professional networking opportunities. This unpaid internship opportunity is open to current sophomore, junior, senior-level undergraduates, or graduate students working toward a degree in water resource management, environmental science, or a related field. Please see http://galvbay.org/aboutus_jobs.html for full details, duties, and qualifications. To apply, email resume and cover letter to cbohanon@galvbay.org by May 28, 2013.
HARC seeks Intern for Website Content Development and Social Media Integration. HARC is looking for a tech savvy and creative student pursuing an Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree with experience using Drupal, WordPress or similar online content management system. Advanced CSS and HTML knowledge, basic Photoshop skills, PHP, MySQL, Drupal module development experience is a plus but not a requirement of the position. We are looking for a candidate with strong communications skills and an ability to perform in a team environment. Duties will include, but not be limited to: organizing and publishing content to a Drupal website; maintaining a consistent look and feel throughout all web components as defined by graphic designer; copying, editing and proofreading all web content; and assisting in the creation of a custom Drupal theme. For more information about the position and to upload a resume, please visit http://mitchell.harc.edu/About/Jobs/Job?jobID=125. HARC is a non-profit research hub located in The Woodlands, TX that provides independent analysis on energy, air, and water issues to people seeking scientific answers.
Buffalo Bayou Partnership seeks Volunteer/Outreach Coordinator. Responsibilities include coordinating volunteer conservation programs and events (Adopt-a-Spot, Green Team, Trash Bash, Eagle Scouts, etc.) and leading activities on-site; coordinating volunteers for BBP special events (Regatta, Kids Day, etc.) and supervising on-site; developing and implementing new and innovative initiatives to expand the volunteer base with an emphasis on corporate volunteers (team building program, communication, recognition, etc.); developing and implementing initiatives to increase awareness of Buffalo Bayou Partnership (includes but not limited to scheduling presentations, representing Buffalo Bayou Partnership at city-wide events such as Earth Day at Discovery Green Park, outreach to residents living along the bayou, speakers’ bureau, etc.); and more. If interested, please send resume and cover letter to Ann Olsen, President, Buffalo Bayou Partnership/ 1113 Vine St, Suite 200/ Houston, TX 77002, or info@buffalobayou.org (No phone calls please).
Hermann Park Conservancy is currently seeking a full-time office manager/bookkeeper. The office manager/bookkeeper is responsible for overseeing the financial management of the organization and for maintaining all financial records, from day-to-day data input to monthly closing journal entries to preparing financial statements. This position is also responsible for the day-to-day office management, including ordering and maintaining office supplies, office equipment, and payroll. This position reports to the executive director. To learn more about this opportunity, visit www.hermannpark.org.
Guadalupe-Blanco River Trust seeks Executive Director (Seguin, TX). Position is responsible for implementing & managing a multi-faceted development program of land & water conservation projects including: finances; fundraising; administration; marketing, project development, implementation & monitoring; conservation easements; establishing landowner contacts; developing project partners; education & outreach; & board development. For details see http://www.gbra.org/documents/hr/ExecDirectorTrust.pdf.
The Galveston Bay Foundation seeks Wetland Permit Review Specialist. The Galveston Bay Foundation (GBF) in Webster, TX, seeks a part-time (10-15 hrs/wk) Wetland Permit Review Specialist. The Wetland Permit Review Specialist works under the supervision of GBF’s Director of Advocacy and in coordination with GBF’s Wetland Permit Review (WPR) committee and state and federal agency staff to encourage the proper use, development, improvement, and protection of the Galveston Bay estuarine system and its tributaries by reviewing, evaluating, and developing comments on projects proposed through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ public notice system. For a full list of duties and qualifications, please see http://galvbay.org/aboutus_jobs.html. To apply, please email resumes to sjones@galvbay.org by May 28, 2013.
Recipe for Success seeks Garden Educator Summer Interns. Recipe for Success is looking for two Garden Educator Summer Interns. The candidate will be knowledgeable and experienced in the various realms of urban agriculture, school and community garden programs, organic horticulture, food systems and youth education. For more information, visit http://recipe4success.org/get-involved/internships.html or contact Justin Myers at Justin@Recipe4Success.org.
Houston Wilderness seeks Event Planning Intern. Houston Wilderness seeks an energetic and creative individual to assist with the planning and implementation of a Houston Wilderness summer environmental adventure challenge and fundraising event. The event will highlight the Wilderness Passport which features regional parks, preserves, and nature centers in the 10 major ecoregions surrounding Houston and provide an action event for interested donors and their families. The Event Planning Intern will be able to list development and completion of the project on their resume. The Event Planning Intern will assist in planning, implementing, and promoting the event. Responsibilities include: working within event timeline; assisting with designing digital invitations; managing multiple lists of donors, supporters, and invitees; working with proprietary information; interfacing with staff, Houston Wilderness board members and participants; promoting summer event through various written and social media outlets; and managing event set up and breakdown. To apply, email a resume, cover letter, writing sample (no longer than one page, double-spaced), and three references to holly@houstonwilderness.org.
Houston Wilderness seeks Website and Social Media Intern. Houston Wilderness seeks an energetic, tech savvy, creative individual to coordinate website and social media to support regional conservation efforts. Houston Wilderness is embarking on two different website development projects – one involving its existing website and one involving a dynamic, multi-partner website with key environmental organizations around the Houston region. Working on these website projects will provide an intern with an opportunity to work on challenging web design and function as well as become involved at the ground floor with the new Get Outdoors Houston! Initiative. The intern will also have an opportunity to network with partner organizations, such as Texas Parks & Wildlife Service, Cornell lab of Ornithology, the Houston Zoo, Houston Audubon, Katy Prairie Conservancy, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The Website and Social Media Intern will create and distribute digital media and content through a variety of channels to engage diverse audiences. To apply, email a resume, cover letter, writing sample (no longer than one page-double spaced), and three references to holly@houstonwilderness.org.
Texas Parks & Wildlife seeks Program Specialist I / Outdoor Diversity Specialist. Based at Sheldon Lake State Park, Houston, TX. Responsibilities include: Under the direction of the Outdoor Education and Outreach Coordinator for Texas State Parks, this position serves as lead instructor for overnight camping workshops, and outdoor activity program delivery to promote the use of State Parks to non-traditional visitors. Responsible for organizing, conducting and evaluating Texas Outdoor Family workshops within the Houston-area State Parks. Serves as a community liaison between State Parks and Houston-area organizations. Develops relationships with community partners who serve diverse audiences, conduct outdoor leadership trainings to prepare group leaders and volunteers to lead overnight camping and outdoor education experiences. View the full details of the position and learn how to apply at http://agency.governmentjobs.com/tpwd/.
TWRC Wildlife Center seeks Wildlife Education Interns. The Wildlife Education interns will assist with Summer Wildlife Camp, conduct outreach and on-site education programming, assist in the Baby Bird Feeding Program and work with other TWRC Wildlife Center interns on a Summer Internship Action Team to develop and analyze education programming, complete individual service projects and address challenges presented by the Education Coordinator. Please go to http://twrcwildlifecenter.org/ to read the full description and find out how to apply.
TWRC Wildlife Center seeks Junior Counselor Coordinator. TWRC Wildlife Center is seeking a Junior Counselor Coordinator for its Summer Wildlife Camp. The paid intern will recruit, train, schedule, and supervise teenage summer camp counselors in education animal care, wildlife summer camps, birthday parties, outreach programs, summer wildlife workshops, and in-center baby bird rehabilitation. The Junior Counselor Coordinator will implement, analyze and improve the Junior Counselor program while working hands-on with native and exotic wildlife. As a vital team member of an active non-profit, the Junior Counselor Coordinator will be called upon to develop and coordinate marketing, fundraising, or community awareness materials and events in relation to the new Junior Counselor Program. Please go to http://twrcwildlifecenter.org/ to read the full description and find out how to apply.
Bayou Greenways 2020 seeks Grassroots and Digital Coordinator. The Bayou Greenways 2020 (BG2020) project aims to create a united urban park system like no other in the nation. By developing linear parks and trails along all the major bayous that flow throughout Houston, BG2020 will add nearly 1,500 acres of additional park land to Houston’s inventory. The Grassroots and Digital Coordinator will be responsible for developing online and web strategies, creating and executing email campaigns, maintaining and managing multiple websites, and organizing and coordinating online and offline community outreach and grassroots outreach efforts. Responsibilities also include managing the organization’s relationship with online community influencers, including reaching out to external blogs and online communities. To Apply: Cover letter, resume and three references should be emailed to: Jen Powis, Advocacy Director at jen@houstonparksboard.org.
Nature Discovery Center Seeks Part-Time Volunteer Coordinator. The Nature Discovery Center is seeking a part-time Volunteer Coordinator to manage all areas related to volunteer work at the Center. The ideal candidate will be adept at working with a variety of personalities and styles, technologically savvy, and goal-oriented. Additional requirements include sense of humor and love of nature. A background in science, education, or conservation is helpful though not required. Responsibilities include: recruit, interview and place applicants for volunteer work at the Nature Discovery Center; conduct and arrange volunteer orientation and training, including the Teen Volunteer Summer Program and most special events; create and maintain a volunteer database and a system for reporting volunteer statistics; and coordinate all volunteer activity with staff. For more information about the Volunteer Coordinator position, or to apply contact: Sarah Flournoy, Executive Director at sflournoy@naturediscoverycenter.org or 713.667.6550.
The Student Conservation Association (SCA) seeks Summer Crew Leaders. SCA seeks two qualified applicants to lead, educate, and inspire high school students for the Houston Summer Crew program. Co-lead, mentor and coach a crew of 12 students, ages 14-19, while completing various conservation service projects designed to build an ethic of community and environmental stewardship. Projects include a range of activities such as trail and park maintenance, habitat restoration, revitalization of abandoned urban properties or to urban agriculture. In addition, leaders will facilitate pre- and post- program planning which includes crew training, environmental education and reporting. Training is June 3-12 and program start date is June 20. To Apply: Please visit the www.thesca.org/employment for a detailed description including information on how to apply. For questions contact SCA Houston staff at SCAHouston@theSCA.org or call: (713) 520-1835.

LEGISLATIVE UPDATE

CEC is sharing information during the session about what bills our member groups and readers are tracking. More information is available at www.cechouston.org/category/texas-legislature/.

House Bills must be debated on the floor by May 9, 2013, in order to be considered; otherwise they must be added as amendments to other bills. The last day of the regular session is Monday, May 27, 2013. Learn more at www.legis.state.tx.us.

Already, over 2,500 bills have been passed by the legislature, although many are tributes of various types. For a complete list, visit http://www.legis.state.tx.us/Reports/Report.aspx?LegSess=83R&ID=passed. The following may be of interest:

HB 200: Relating to liability of certain electric utilities that allow certain uses of land that the electric utility owns, occupies, or leases.
HB 419: Relating to designating the first Friday in November as Texas Arbor Day.
HB 597: Relating to boater education and examinations on preventing the spread of exotic harmful or potentially harmful aquatic plants, fish, and shellfish.
HB 622: Relating to the report by the General Land Office to the legislature on the effectiveness of the coastal management program.
HB 788: Relating to permitting of greenhouse gas emissions by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality; limiting the amount of a fee.
HB 994: Relating to the applicability of state law regulating the decommissioning costs of certain newly constructed commercial nuclear-powered electric generating facilities.
HB 1461: Relating to customer notification of water loss by a retail public utility.
HB 1600: Relating to the continuation and functions of the Public Utility Commission of Texas, to the transfer of certain functions from the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality to the Public Utility Commission of Texas, to the rates for water service, and to the functions of the Office of Public Utility Counsel; authorizing a fee.
HB 1642: Relating to the Port of Houston Authority.
HB 2252: Relating to eligibility of charitable organizations to participate in a state employee charitable campaign.
HB 2290: Relating to the use for administrative costs of a portion of money received by certain entities to implement a supplemental environmental project.
HB 2623: Relating to the authority of certain counties and the General Land Office to temporarily close a beach or beach access point.
SB 902: Relating to the operation, powers, and duties of certain water districts.

HB 4 passed on 5/20/2013, 144 in favor, 4 against! Relating to the administration and functions of the Texas Water Development Board; authorizing the issuance of revenue bonds. This bill creates the State Water Implementation Fund for Texas.

Other websites with updates on environmental legislation:

ACT Texas Clean Air: www.acttexas.org.
Texas Bottle Bill www.texasbottlebill.com.
H-GAC’s Natural Resources Advisory Council: Justin Bower, senior environmental planner, is providing briefings on proposed legislation related to air, water, land use, governance of natural resources, parks and natural areas, and energy issues. The briefings are updated on a weekly basis. Please note, these documents are intended as a summary of legislation and potential impacts, and are not intended to imply a stance or position on any bill. For all questions, contact Justin Bower at 713-499-6653. Briefing Document for All Natural Resources Legislation. (By category: Air Pollution and Climate, Energy, Governance, Land Use, Miscellaneous, Parks and Natural Areas, Solid Waste, Water and Sewer Utilities, Water Conservation, Water Quality, Water Supply, Wildlife Management.)
Public Citizen Texas VOX: http://texasvox.org/82nd-legislative-session/
The Texas Observer is providing non-stop coverage of the 83rd Texas Legislature, that national laboratory of bad ideas. Make sure to visit texasobserver.org/texas-legislature each day for their Capitol reporting.

UPCOMING EVENTS If you attend one of these events, please let them know you heard about it here! Visit the new calendar at www.cechouston.org.

Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Wednesday, May 22, 2013

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Friday, May 24, 2013

Saturday, May 25, 2013

Sunday, May 26, 2013

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

CEC agencies receive donations when you choose Green Bank. Visit www.greenbank.com for more information about the program.

Rachel Powers, Executive Director
Page Slocum, Newsletter Editor
Rachel Tardiff, Calendar Editor
(713) 524-4232
news@cechouston.org