ECN News http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com 12/17/2008 11:44:25 AM Eco-Friendly Plant Growing Medium has Revolutionary Impact for Green Roof Applications http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=285 12/17/2008 11:44:25 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=285 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/F4F36D8DB5E66F188EFC2A76B95FDDD1.jpg --- Minimized Watering; No Soil, Dramatically Reduced Need for Herbicide or Fertilizer ---- NEW BRAUNFELS, Tx. , December 15, 2008--  A new product has emerged that will revolutionize the gardening industry, including green roofs.    Proprietary, patented growth matrix panels, made from recycled plastic, provide a perfect growing medium for plants and require no soil, minimal water (watering cycles of 30 to 60 days, and beyond), and greatly reduced need for fertilizer.  Plants tested in the medium including bedding plants, small and medium-sized shrubs, turf, and interior plants, thrive in the environment.  While the expanded plastic medium absorbs water, engineered pores throughout it allow the roots of the plants to breathe, eliminating potential over-watering problems. Discovered by Joe Byles, CEO of Freedom Garden Products, the lightweight material provides the perfect solution for green roofs.  “Currently, green roofs need anywhere from one half a foot to several feet of soil,” Byles explains.  “This amount of soil can weigh from 20 pounds per square foot up to hundreds of pounds per square foot, making a green roof or general rooftop garden prohibitive for older buildings.” Byles continues, “Also, plant material palettes have been limited.  With this material, there’s a wide range of shrubs, including woody ornamentals; bedding plants, and turf that can be planted on rooftops.” The application has huge implications for streamlining green roofs and making them more cost affordable.  “Companies save considerable money over time in utility costs with green roofs,” states Byles, “but installation has been costly and difficult.”  Imagine having to lift tons of planting soil up to a roof top.  Now, green roof installers can fold the panels and carry them all to the roof via the elevator. “They’re very light weight,” says Byles.  “Because the engineered material is flexible and continuous, you can just fold them up and carry a large number of them together with the plants in place.” Byles, an inventor with more than 13 patents to date, is an aerospace engineer and a Master Gardener.  He discovered the growth matrix while researching fuel management in supersonic aircraft when he realized that it is the near perfect plant growth medium, and that it maintains air and water in the perfect ratio with no drainage. He then incorporated the material into landscape panels.  During university testing the product demonstrated up to 100 percent efficient use of water. The ability to grow plants in a non-drained state means all water applied to the plants is available with no loss.  The unique manufacturing process of the material ensures that air is always maintained within the matrix where the roots of the plants can access it.   In addition to green roofs, product application includes hanging flower baskets, bedding plant containers and large garden panels used to grow bedding plants that can be placed in landscapes in minutes with the benefits of the greatly extended watering intervals and reduced chemical usage.  Color rotation is incredibly easy with the panels on rooftops and in gardens. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Byles, residing in Texas , has also tested the product in extreme heat and in California locations subject to the Santa Anna winds.  “Plant material has done extremely well in these panels, no mater what the heat, wind, or rain conditions have been,” Byles says. Gary Mangum, co-owner of Bell Nursery in Burtonsville , Md. with greenhouses throughout the mid-Atlantic and Ohio , has tested the panels.  “We have placed panels in various conditions to test vulnerability,” Mangum states.  “In some cases, the plant material went 90 days before it required watering.”  Mangum also tested turf which went seven months and still was not in need of watering or mowing.  “In this material, turf will only grow to the height of its potential root depth,” Byles explains.  The same theory does not apply to bedding plants or shrubs which have grown to normal heights in the medium. For more information on green roof panels or other products by Joe Byles and Freedom Garden Products, please visit www.freedomgardenproducts.com or call 830-305-2299. Source: PLANET Press Release December 15th, 2008 --- Minimized Watering; No Soil, Dramatically Reduced Need for Herbicide or Fertilizer ----

NEW BRAUNFELS, Tx., December 15, 2008--  A new product has emerged that will revolutionize the gardening industry, including green roofs.   Proprietary, patented growth matrix panels, made from recycled plastic, provide a perfect growing medium for plants and require no soil, minimal water (watering cycles of 30 to 60 days, and beyond), and greatly reduced need for fertilizer.  Plants tested in the medium including bedding plants, small and medium-sized shrubs, turf, and interior plants, thrive in the environment.  While the expanded plastic medium absorbs water, engineered pores throughout it allow the roots of the plants to breathe, eliminating potential over-watering problems.

Discovered by Joe Byles, CEO of Freedom Garden Products, the lightweight material provides the perfect solution for green roofs.  “Currently, green roofs need anywhere from one half a foot to several feet of soil,” Byles explains.  “This amount of soil can weigh from 20 pounds per square foot up to hundreds of pounds per square foot, making a green roof or general rooftop garden prohibitive for older buildings.” Byles continues, “Also, plant material palettes have been limited.  With this material, there’s a wide range of shrubs, including woody ornamentals; bedding plants, and turf that can be planted on rooftops.”

The application has huge implications for streamlining green roofs and making them more cost affordable.  “Companies save considerable money over time in utility costs with green roofs,” states Byles, “but installation has been costly and difficult.”  Imagine having to lift tons of planting soil up to a roof top.  Now, green roof installers can fold the panels and carry them all to the roof via the elevator. “They’re very light weight,” says Byles.  “Because the engineered material is flexible and continuous, you can just fold them up and carry a large number of them together with the plants in place.”

Byles, an inventor with more than 13 patents to date, is an aerospace engineer and a Master Gardener.  He discovered the growth matrix while researching fuel management in supersonic aircraft when he realized that it is the near perfect plant growth medium, and that it maintains air and water in the perfect ratio with no drainage. He then incorporated the material into landscape panels.  During university testing the product demonstrated up to 100 percent efficient use of water. The ability to grow plants in a non-drained state means all water applied to the plants is available with no loss.  The unique manufacturing process of the material ensures that air is always maintained within the matrix where the roots of the plants can access it.   In addition to green roofs, product application includes hanging flower baskets, bedding plant containers and large garden panels used to grow bedding plants that can be placed in landscapes in minutes with the benefits of the greatly extended watering intervals and reduced chemical usage.  Color rotation is incredibly easy with the panels on rooftops and in gardens.

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Byles, residing in Texas, has also tested the product in extreme heat and in California locations subject to the Santa Anna winds.  “Plant material has done extremely well in these panels, no mater what the heat, wind, or rain conditions have been,” Byles says.

Gary Mangum, co-owner of Bell Nursery in Burtonsville, Md. with greenhouses throughout the mid-Atlantic and Ohio, has tested the panels.  “We have placed panels in various conditions to test vulnerability,” Mangum states.  “In some cases, the plant material went 90 days before it required watering.”  Mangum also tested turf which went seven months and still was not in need of watering or mowing.  “In this material, turf will only grow to the height of its potential root depth,” Byles explains.  The same theory does not apply to bedding plants or shrubs which have grown to normal heights in the medium.

For more information on green roof panels or other products by Joe Byles and Freedom Garden Products, please visit www.freedomgardenproducts.com or call 830-305-2299.

Source: PLANET Press Release December 15th, 2008

]]> PLANET Launches Web Site for Day of Service Event http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=284 12/17/2008 11:40:58 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=284 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/1A9182B38BB6EB8A56207A331AB7874B.jpg HERNDON, Va. , December 16, 2008 — The Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) has launched a Web site, planetdayofservice.org , to support its new program called PLANET Day of Service, which will take place on April 22, 2009. The annual grassroots event is an opportunity for PLANET members, state associations, supplier members, and other PLANET partners to come together across the country for a day of giving back to their communities through volunteer landscape, lawn care, or tree care projects. “We know the green industry is committed to serving their communities,” said PLANET President Jason Cupp, CLP. “This is a great way to show that commitment to the nation and to educate the public about the importance of caring for our green spaces.” Planetdayofservice.org is a one-stop shop for members organizing their Day of Service events. They can register their company and project there, as well as see, via an interactive map, the locations of the events as people register them. The Web site also contains project ideas and tips on planning and running events “If members aren’t able to create their own event, they can look at the list of registered events and volunteer somewhere else in their region,” said Richard Heller, CLP, CLT, chair of the public relations committee. “We designed the Web site to be user friendly to make the planning of a PLANET Day of Service event as easy as possible.” Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Anyone interested in participating in the PLANET Day of Service is encouraged to log on to the Web site planetdayofservice.org f or more information about , or they can contact Heather Finney at the Professional Landcare Network office by calling (800) 395-2522. The Lead Sponsors for the PLANET Day of Service are Agrium Advanced Technologies; American Profit Recovery, Inc.; John Deere; Lawns by Yorkshire Inc.; and Shindaiwa. PLANET is the association of members who create and maintain the QUALITY OF LIFE in communities across America . With more than 4,200 member companies and affiliates, these firms and their employees represent more than 100,000 green industry professionals. Source: PLANET Press Release December 16th, 2008 HERNDON, Va., December 16, 2008 — The Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) has launched a Web site, planetdayofservice.org, to support its new program called PLANET Day of Service, which will take place on April 22, 2009.

The annual grassroots event is an opportunity for PLANET members, state associations, supplier members, and other PLANET partners to come together across the country for a day of giving back to their communities through volunteer landscape, lawn care, or tree care projects. “We know the green industry is committed to serving their communities,” said PLANET President Jason Cupp, CLP. “This is a great way to show that commitment to the nation and to educate the public about the importance of caring for our green spaces.”

Planetdayofservice.org is a one-stop shop for members organizing their Day of Service events. They can register their company and project there, as well as see, via an interactive map, the locations of the events as people register them. The Web site also contains project ideas and tips on planning and running events

“If members aren’t able to create their own event, they can look at the list of registered events and volunteer somewhere else in their region,” said Richard Heller, CLP, CLT, chair of the public relations committee. “We designed the Web site to be user friendly to make the planning of a PLANET Day of Service event as easy as possible.”

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Anyone interested in participating in the PLANET Day of Service is encouraged to log on to the Web site planetdayofservice.org for more information about, or they can contact Heather Finney at the Professional Landcare Network office by calling (800) 395-2522.

The Lead Sponsors for the PLANET Day of Service are Agrium Advanced Technologies; American Profit Recovery, Inc.; John Deere; Lawns by Yorkshire Inc.; and Shindaiwa.

PLANET is the association of members who create and maintain the QUALITY OF LIFE in communities across America. With more than 4,200 member companies and affiliates, these firms and their employees represent more than 100,000 green industry professionals.

Source: PLANET Press Release December 16th, 2008

]]> Planet Holds Crystal Ball Meeting on Sustainability http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=283 12/12/2008 10:47:03 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=283 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/FEF29221A15318D416B4EB3B49B574CF.jpg HERNDON, Va., December 1, 2008 –- The Professional Landcare Network ( PLANET) recently held a three-day meeting at Hunter Industries in San Marcos, California, to discuss “Innovating Toward a Sustainable and Profitable Future.” The purpose of the meeting was multiple — to develop a better understanding of business models that work productively with sustainability and balance profitability, to begin drafting a statement of intent and a plan for follow through to create positive momentum among industry stakeholders, and to work to align or surpass standards of Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED). Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - Click Here to Advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- M eeting participants included Crystal Ball Committee Chair Jim McCutcheon, CLP, HighGrove Partners, Austell, Georgia, Crystal Ball Committee Co-chair Kurt Kluznik, CCLP, Yardmaster, Inc., Painesville, Ohio; Crystal Ball Committee Co-chair Steve Pattie, CLP, The Pattie Group, Novelty, Ohio; Sharon Barnes, Barnes Nursery, Huron, Ohio; Doug Bennett, Southern Nevada Water Authority, Las Vegas, Nevada; Hilary Bradbury-Huang, The University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California; Rex Bishop, North Metro Technical College, Atlanta, Georgia; Kurt Bland, CLP, CLT, Bland Landscaping Co., Inc., Apex, North Carolina; Dean DeSantis, CLP, DeSantis Landscapes, Salem, Oregon; Carol Dilger, Ariens, Ferdinand, Indiana; Joel Eaton, Mineral Visions, a Fairmont Minerals Company, Chardon, Ohio; Jay Fraleigh, Gro-Eco, Madison, Florida; Tom Fochtman, CLP, CoCal Landscape, Denver, Colorado; Parwinder Grewal, The Ohio State University, Wooster, Ohio; Ron Hall, Landscape Management , Port Clinton, Ohio; Bill Harley, Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, Alexandria, Virginia; Tom Heaviland, CLP, CLT, Heaviland Enterprises, San Diego, California; Richard Heller, CLP, CLT, Greener by Design, Pelham, New York; Sabeena Hickman, PLANET, Herndon, Virginia; Bill Hildebolt, Ph.D., CTP, CTP-CSL, Nature’s Select Premium Turf Services, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Bob Kehres, Ohio Prairie Nursery, Hiram, Ohio; Roger Phelps, STIHL, Virginia Beach, Virginia; Doug Obermann, PBI/Gordon, Kansas City, Missouri; Heather Venhaus, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas; and Lynda Wightman, Hunter Industries, Missoula, Montana. PLANET President Jason Cupp, CLP, Highland Outdoor, Olathe, Kansas, was unable to attend the meeting.   The group explored what sustainability means to the most important element of any company — the employee. They looked specifically at how other national companies, such as Walmart and Fairmont Minerals, have focused on this area. The group also looked at educating employees on what “green” means on both a societal level and an individual level. Specific outcomes of company sustainability summits have had an emphasis on employee health and education, employee turnover, and finding motivated individuals. This has been an issue in the landscape industry for years. A potential outcome of employee-centric sustainability programs is better retention and buy-in.   Every company at the meeting practicing sustainability has been engaged in lean management practices for a couple of years. Lean management, an operational strategy, was the focus of PLANET’s Crystal Ball Report two years ago.   “It’s critically important for us, as a group representing the ‘green industry,’ to analyze and establish the sustainability practices of our profession, and to make comparisons to other industries and companies that are leaders in the arena. It is also critical that our work also drive the growth, innovation, and profitability of our industry,” states McCutcheon.   In addition, the group is researching an action plan for the future with the possibility of building a coalition of states and related associations that can partner with and move the industry closer to sustainable practices. The group also concluded that partnering with allied organizations such as the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and The Sustainable Sites Initiative to evolve these practices, and developing educational tracks that reflect this commitment would be ideal.  USGBC has established the guidelines for LEED certification.   Additional allied organizations for sustainability partnerships include nursery growers, equipment manufacturers, and all related supplier companies.   The group plans to have a follow-up meeting in Ohio, date not yet confirmed, an online forum to continue discussions, and to establish a sustainable task force.  Through this meeting, the groundwork for the 2009 Crystal Ball Report (final written report) was accomplished and research goals were identified.   Crystal Ball Reports were originally published by the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA), prior to its merger with the Professional Lawn Care Association of America (PLCAA).  This merger resulted in the formation of the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET), which continues to identify meaningful topics, resulting in the development of Crystal Ball Reports. For many years, valuable information about the green industry has been captured by leading members of the industry and compiled into these Crystal Ball Reports.   To learn more, visit www. L andcareNetwork.org , or call the PLANET office at (800) 395-2522.   PLANET is the association of members who create and maintain the QUALITY OF LIFE in communities across America.  With more than 4,200 member companies and affiliates, these firms and their employees represent more than 100,000 green industry professionals. HERNDON, Va., December 1, 2008 –- The Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) recently held a three-day meeting at Hunter Industries in San Marcos, California, to discuss “Innovating Toward a Sustainable and Profitable Future.” The purpose of the meeting was multiple — to develop a better understanding of business models that work productively with sustainability and balance profitability, to begin drafting a statement of intent and a plan for follow through to create positive momentum among industry stakeholders, and to work to align or surpass standards of Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED).

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Meeting participants included Crystal Ball Committee Chair Jim McCutcheon, CLP, HighGrove Partners, Austell, Georgia, Crystal Ball Committee Co-chair Kurt Kluznik, CCLP, Yardmaster, Inc., Painesville, Ohio; Crystal Ball Committee Co-chair Steve Pattie, CLP, The Pattie Group, Novelty, Ohio; Sharon Barnes, Barnes Nursery, Huron, Ohio; Doug Bennett, Southern Nevada Water Authority, Las Vegas, Nevada; Hilary Bradbury-Huang, The University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California; Rex Bishop, North Metro Technical College, Atlanta, Georgia; Kurt Bland, CLP, CLT, Bland Landscaping Co., Inc., Apex, North Carolina; Dean DeSantis, CLP, DeSantis Landscapes, Salem, Oregon; Carol Dilger, Ariens, Ferdinand, Indiana; Joel Eaton, Mineral Visions, a Fairmont Minerals Company, Chardon, Ohio; Jay Fraleigh, Gro-Eco, Madison, Florida; Tom Fochtman, CLP, CoCal Landscape, Denver, Colorado; Parwinder Grewal, The Ohio State University, Wooster, Ohio; Ron Hall, Landscape Management, Port Clinton, Ohio; Bill Harley, Outdoor Power Equipment Institute, Alexandria, Virginia; Tom Heaviland, CLP, CLT, Heaviland Enterprises, San Diego, California; Richard Heller, CLP, CLT, Greener by Design, Pelham, New York; Sabeena Hickman, PLANET, Herndon, Virginia; Bill Hildebolt, Ph.D., CTP, CTP-CSL, Nature’s Select Premium Turf Services, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Bob Kehres, Ohio Prairie Nursery, Hiram, Ohio; Roger Phelps, STIHL, Virginia Beach, Virginia; Doug Obermann, PBI/Gordon, Kansas City, Missouri; Heather Venhaus, Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas; and Lynda Wightman, Hunter Industries, Missoula, Montana. PLANET President Jason Cupp, CLP, Highland Outdoor, Olathe, Kansas, was unable to attend the meeting. 

The group explored what sustainability means to the most important element of any company — the employee. They looked specifically at how other national companies, such as Walmart and Fairmont Minerals, have focused on this area. The group also looked at educating employees on what “green” means on both a societal level and an individual level. Specific outcomes of company sustainability summits have had an emphasis on employee health and education, employee turnover, and finding motivated individuals. This has been an issue in the landscape industry for years. A potential outcome of employee-centric sustainability programs is better retention and buy-in. 

Every company at the meeting practicing sustainability has been engaged in lean management practices for a couple of years. Lean management, an operational strategy, was the focus of PLANET’s Crystal Ball Report two years ago. 

“It’s critically important for us, as a group representing the ‘green industry,’ to analyze and establish the sustainability practices of our profession, and to make comparisons to other industries and companies that are leaders in the arena. It is also critical that our work also drive the growth, innovation, and profitability of our industry,” states McCutcheon. 

In addition, the group is researching an action plan for the future with the possibility of building a coalition of states and related associations that can partner with and move the industry closer to sustainable practices. The group also concluded that partnering with allied organizations such as the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) and The Sustainable Sites Initiative to evolve these practices, and developing educational tracks that reflect this commitment would be ideal.  USGBC has established the guidelines for LEED certification. 

Additional allied organizations for sustainability partnerships include nursery growers, equipment manufacturers, and all related supplier companies. 

The group plans to have a follow-up meeting in Ohio, date not yet confirmed, an online forum to continue discussions, and to establish a sustainable task force.  Through this meeting, the groundwork for the 2009 Crystal Ball Report (final written report) was accomplished and research goals were identified. 

Crystal Ball Reports were originally published by the Associated Landscape Contractors of America (ALCA), prior to its merger with the Professional Lawn Care Association of America (PLCAA).  This merger resulted in the formation of the Professional Landcare Network (PLANET), which continues to identify meaningful topics, resulting in the development of Crystal Ball Reports. For many years, valuable information about the green industry has been captured by leading members of the industry and compiled into these Crystal Ball Reports. 

To learn more, visit www.LandcareNetwork.org, or call the PLANET office at (800) 395-2522. 

PLANET is the association of members who create and maintain the QUALITY OF LIFE in communities across America.  With more than 4,200 member companies and affiliates, these firms and their employees represent more than 100,000 green industry professionals.

]]> Environmental Connection - The Worlds Largest Soil and Water Event http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=282 12/12/2008 10:42:28 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=282 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/DA223EF5A9CA2CAF3663561D57A33750.jpg This is the premier educational event for the erosion and sediment control industry. Environmental Connection combines intense, full day training courses with topic-focused technical sessions and the largest expo of its kind. Over 4 days, Environmental Connection provides peer–reviewed education, products and technology which address eight technology sections: Slope Stabilization Stream Restoration Vegetative Establishment Stormwater Management Wetlands Technology Erosion and Sediment Control Beach and Shoreline Stabilization New: Wind Erosion Technology How can you be a part of this event?   To become an exhibitor at the next Environmental Connection contact IECA's Director of Events and Sales at events@ieca.org or call 800-455-4322 x 15 (+1 303-640-7554 outside the US. To find out more about the conference, join our mailing list . More information will be available beginning in early October. If you have additional questions, contact IECA at ecinfo@ieca.org or call 880-455-4322 (+1 303-640-7554 outside the US). When and Where? Reno Convention Center and the Atlantis Casino Hotel Reno, Nevada, USA February 9–12, 2009. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Environmental Connection combines intense, full day training courses with topic-focused technical sessions and the largest expo of its kind.

Over 4 days, Environmental Connection provides peer–reviewed education, products and technology which address eight technology sections:

Erosion Control

How can you be a part of this event? 
To become an exhibitor at the next Environmental Connection contact IECA's Director of Events and Sales at events@ieca.org or call 800-455-4322 x 15 (+1 303-640-7554 outside the US. To find out more about the conference, join our mailing list. More information will be available beginning in early October. If you have additional questions, contact IECA at ecinfo@ieca.org or call 880-455-4322 (+1 303-640-7554 outside the US).

When and Where?
Reno Convention Center and the Atlantis Casino Hotel
Reno, Nevada, USA
February 9–12, 2009.

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]]> ScourStop Awarded Rare Public Interest Finding (PIF) http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=281 11/13/2008 11:07:57 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=281 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/CEF8A1F25A123457EB326A4D0BDCABC9.jpg The Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT) has issued a rare Public Interest Finding (PIF) for the use of ScourStop on state projects. ScourStop transition mats are a biotechnical replacement for rock rip-rap and offer permanent protection against scour and erosion at drainage outlets, overflow structures and stream banks and provide an aesthetically pleasing, natural landscape. Now that a statewide PIF has been issued and approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), designers can specify the use of ScourStop transition mats (as a proprietary product) on both state and federally funded projects. As the name suggests, a Public Interest Finding is a state DOT request for FHWA approval based on the public's best interest - that allows an exception to be made to one of the many state or federal rules, policies or procedures that apply to construction contract lettings conducted by the Iowa DOT. PIF approval remains a very rare occurrence. The Iowa DOT will submit a PIF on a product only after careful consideration, when it is deemed to be more effective than existing procedures or practices. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Tom Carpenter, CPESC , creator of ScourStop transition mats and president of Erosion Tech LLC, said, "I'm very honored for our product to be selected for a PIF and for it to be recognized on a statewide basis. The PIF will enable better statewide compliance with NPDES Phase II requirements and will provide the impetus for MS4 entities and private designers to specify vegetated, soft armor Best Management Practices." For more details, visit www.scourstop.com  
As the name suggests, a Public Interest Finding is a state DOT request for FHWA approval based on the public's best interest - that allows an exception to be made to one of the many state or federal rules, policies or procedures that apply to construction contract lettings conducted by the Iowa DOT. PIF approval remains a very rare occurrence. The Iowa DOT will submit a PIF on a product only after careful consideration, when it is deemed to be more effective than existing procedures or practices.

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Tom Carpenter, CPESC, creator of ScourStop transition mats and president of Erosion Tech LLC, said, "I'm very honored for our product to be selected for a PIF and for it to be recognized on a statewide basis. The PIF will enable better statewide compliance with NPDES Phase II requirements and will provide the impetus for MS4 entities and private designers to specify vegetated, soft armor Best Management Practices."

For more details, visit www.scourstop.com  ]]> TV News: Top Stories for the week of 11/12/2008 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=280 11/13/2008 11:04:12 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=280 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/285DCC0984E5F0AF69FC2034B92D0871.jpg Land and Water Magazine invites you to view ESCN.TV, our weekly internet newscast! Pacific Northwest Chapter of the IECA Holds Conference ScourStop Awarded Rare Public Interest Finding Colorado DOT Fined $500,000 for Polluting Streams In The Spotlite - Blocksom Tip of the Week - Pat Sauer talks about Stabilizing Infiltration Areas www.escn.tv Click to View Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - Click Here to Advertise ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Land and Water Magazine
invites you to view ESCN.TV,
our weekly internet newscast!

  • Pacific Northwest Chapter of the IECA Holds Conference
  • ScourStop Awarded Rare Public Interest Finding
  • Colorado DOT Fined $500,000 for Polluting Streams
  • In The Spotlite - Blocksom
  • Tip of the Week - Pat Sauer talks about Stabilizing Infiltration Areas

    • www.escn.tv
    Click to View

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    ]]>         Interiorscape Industry Coalition Convenes http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=279 11/13/2008 11:01:33 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=279 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/CA7CBF9DA52D4A2BCA9E916505D43DED.jpg HERNDON, Va., November 13, 2008 — An interiorscape industry summit was convened last Thursday in Atlanta, Georgia. The meeting was initiated and attended by the Professional Landcare Network’s (PLANET’s) Interior Specialty Group Chair Chris Raimondi, CLP, and moderated by Terry Anderson, CLP, of the National Interiorscape Network. “Over the past few years, we’ve seen several interior groups emerge,” Raimondi explains. “We wanted to pull in everyone to see how we can all best work together to optimize resources and eliminate duplication.” Attendees of the meeting were Norah Hunter, faculty at Brigham Young University; Mike Lewis, CLP, president elect of Green Plants for Green Buildings; Stephen Schell, chair of Interiorscape Group, and Sally Harvey, CLP, CHT, manager of education and labor, with Landscape Ontario; Joe Cialone, CLP, president of the National Foliage Foundation; Dick Ott, CCLP, director of the National Interiorscape Network; Rich Batcho, CLT, Interior Plantscape chair for the Association of Floriculture Professionals; Mary Golden, executive director, Plantscape Industry Alliance; Tony Caruso, president of Plantscape Industry Alliance; James H. Johnson, staff liaison with PLANET; Linda Adams, associate vice president of FNGLA and representative of the Tropical Plant Industry Exposition (TPIE). Other invited guests not in attendance included Jeff Morey of Interiorscape Magazine; John Akehurst of the Maryland Nursery and Landscape Association; Denise Calabre of the Pennsylvania Floral Industry Alliance; and PLANET President Jason Cupp, CLP, who could not attend due to illness. The group named itself the Interiorscape Industry Coalition (IIC) and defined its mission, as follows: To increase interiorscaping industry awareness, raise industry professionalism, and promote inclusion of plants in the interior environment through collaborative efforts of participating organizations. The group agreed that the various associations should work together in partnering and sharing opportunities and in raising awareness of the industry. It also agreed to collaborate on increasing professionalism within the industry and advocating the use of plants in interior environments. “There was a genuine spirit of unity in the industry that we haven’t seen before,” Raimondi said. “Hopefully this is the beginning of an ongoing dialogue that will uncover exciting possibilities for all of us to work together to educate industry professionals, and create a better, common understanding of the industry as a whole for everyone who is a part of it.” The IIC will meet again during TPIE 2009 and will be working on strategies and action items at that time. Any interested organization dealing with the interiorscape industry can contact Chris Raimondi at (201) 445-1299. Source: PLANET Press Release 11-13-08 HERNDON, Va., November 13, 2008 — An interiorscape industry summit was convened last Thursday in Atlanta, Georgia. The meeting was initiated and attended by the Professional Landcare Network’s (PLANET’s) Interior Specialty Group Chair Chris Raimondi, CLP, and moderated by Terry Anderson, CLP, of the National Interiorscape Network.

    “Over the past few years, we’ve seen several interior groups emerge,” Raimondi explains. “We wanted to pull in everyone to see how we can all best work together to optimize resources and eliminate duplication.”

    Attendees of the meeting were Norah Hunter, faculty at Brigham Young University; Mike Lewis, CLP, president elect of Green Plants for Green Buildings; Stephen Schell, chair of Interiorscape Group, and Sally Harvey, CLP, CHT, manager of education and labor, with Landscape Ontario; Joe Cialone, CLP, president of the National Foliage Foundation; Dick Ott, CCLP, director of the National Interiorscape Network; Rich Batcho, CLT, Interior Plantscape chair for the Association of Floriculture Professionals; Mary Golden, executive director, Plantscape Industry Alliance; Tony Caruso, president of Plantscape Industry Alliance; James H. Johnson, staff liaison with PLANET; Linda Adams, associate vice president of FNGLA and representative of the Tropical Plant Industry Exposition (TPIE).

    Other invited guests not in attendance included Jeff Morey of Interiorscape Magazine; John Akehurst of the Maryland Nursery and Landscape Association; Denise Calabre of the Pennsylvania Floral Industry Alliance; and PLANET President Jason Cupp, CLP, who could not attend due to illness.

    The group named itself the Interiorscape Industry Coalition (IIC) and defined its mission, as follows:

    To increase interiorscaping industry awareness, raise industry professionalism, and promote inclusion of plants in the interior environment through collaborative efforts of participating organizations.

    The group agreed that the various associations should work together in partnering and sharing opportunities and in raising awareness of the industry. It also agreed to collaborate on increasing professionalism within the industry and advocating the use of plants in interior environments.

    “There was a genuine spirit of unity in the industry that we haven’t seen before,” Raimondi said. “Hopefully this is the beginning of an ongoing dialogue that will uncover exciting possibilities for all of us to work together to educate industry professionals, and create a better, common understanding of the industry as a whole for everyone who is a part of it.”

    The IIC will meet again during TPIE 2009 and will be working on strategies and action items at that time. Any interested organization dealing with the interiorscape industry can contact Chris Raimondi at (201) 445-1299.

    Source: PLANET Press Release 11-13-08

    ]]>         McCullah Featured Explorer in Smithsonian Exhibit http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=278 11/12/2008 4:54:30 PM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=278 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/E485CA9013DCF6F8860DA1B405AB1031.jpg John McCullah, CPESC , past IECA Board member and host of the Dirt Time video series, is featured as an explorer in the Dig It! - The Secrets of Soil exhibit now on display at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. Through the virtual exhibit, kids can discover the world of soils with images and information. Click here for an Overview of the Program . Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- John McCullah, CPESC, past IECA Board member and host of the Dirt Time video series, is featured as an explorer in the Dig It! - The Secrets of Soil exhibit now on display at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. Through the virtual exhibit, kids can discover the world of soils with images and information. Click here for an Overview of the Program.

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    ]]>         TV News: Top Stories for the week of 11/5/2008 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=277 11/6/2008 12:48:35 PM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=277 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/95B55AD5A25B05FE5F4AF35A43C20726.jpg Land and Water Magazine invites you to view ESCN.TV, our weekly internet newscast! Northwest Company Marks 10th Anniversary Industry Pioneer Announces Custom Approach to Training Strata Systems Launches New Interactive Website Contech Introduces ChamberMaxx Retention Systems In The Spotlite - Tenax Tip of the Week - Laurie Honnigford talks about Hydraulic Mulch Application www.escn.tv Click to View Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - Click Here to Advertise ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Land and Water Magazine
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  • Northwest Company Marks 10th Anniversary
  • Industry Pioneer Announces Custom Approach to Training
  • Strata Systems Launches New Interactive Website
  • Contech Introduces ChamberMaxx Retention Systems
  • In The Spotlite - Tenax
  • Tip of the Week - Laurie Honnigford talks about Hydraulic Mulch Application

    www.escn.tv
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    • ]]>         TV News: Top Stories for the week of 10/29/2008 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=276 10/29/2008 4:09:14 PM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=276 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/276A46B3F8F7D50581CE951B774A12D2.jpg Land and Water Magazine invites you to view ESCN.TV, our weekly internet newscast! Geosynthetica.net Launches New Website Workshop on Managing Stormwater Quality Stormwater Compliance Expert Joins SEH In The Spotlite - Silt Saver Tip of the Week - Laurie Honnigford talks about Hydraulic Application Coverage www.escn.tv Click to View Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - Click Here to Advertise ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Land and Water Magazine
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  • Geosynthetica.net Launches New Website
  • Workshop on Managing Stormwater Quality
  • Stormwater Compliance Expert Joins SEH
  • In The Spotlite - Silt Saver
  • Tip of the Week - Laurie Honnigford talks about Hydraulic Application Coverage

    www.escn.tv
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    • ]]>         ScourStop Awarded Rare Public Interest Finding (PIF) http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=275 10/29/2008 3:59:54 PM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=275 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/1F7B4B2C2B52274FB13346A1D5FF5C47.jpg October 24, 2008 (ANKENY, IA.) - The Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT) has issued a rare Public Interest Finding (PIF) for the use of ScourStop on state projects. ScourStop Transition Mats are a biotechnical replacement for rock rip-rap and offer permanent protection against scour and erosion at drainage outlets, overflow structures, and stream banks; as well as providing an aesthetically pleasing, natural landscape. They have been used on a project-by-project basis in various locations across the state for several years. Now that a statewide PIF has been issued-and approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) - designers can specify the use of ScourStop transition mats (as a proprietary product) on both state and federally funded projects. As the name suggests, a Public Interest Finding is a state DOT request for FHWA approval-based on the public's best interest-that allows an exception to be made to one of the many state or federal rules, policies, or procedures that apply to construction contract lettings conducted by the Iowa DOT. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- PIF approval remains a very rare occurrence. The Iowa DOT will submit a PIF on a product only after careful consideration and it is deemed to be more effective than existing procedures or practices. The PIF granted for ScourStop is unique in the sense that it is only the eighth "blanket" PIF, that is, for general use statewide, approved by the FHWA in the last 11 years. The FHWA has approved only 26 PIFs in Iowa since 1997, and 18 of those were for specific products on specific projects. Tom Carpenter, the creator of ScourStop Transition Mats and President of Erosion Tech LLC, understands the significance of being awarded a PIF from the Iowa DOT. "I'm very honored for our product to be selected for a PIF and for it to be recognized on a statewide basis. The Public Interest Finding will enable better statewide compliance with NPDES Phase II requirements, and provides the impetus for MS4 entities and private designers to specify vegetated, soft armor Best Management Practices. Hopefully, other states will concur with the Iowa DOT and FHWA in addressing the need for better revetment systems, vegetated solutions and NPDES Phase II compliance ." For more details, visit www.scourstop.com October 24, 2008 (ANKENY, IA.) -The Iowa Department of Transportation (Iowa DOT) has issued a rare Public Interest Finding (PIF) for the use of ScourStop on state projects.

    ScourStop Transition Mats are a biotechnical replacement for rock rip-rap and offer permanent protection against scour and erosion at drainage outlets, overflow structures, and stream banks; as well as providing an aesthetically pleasing, natural landscape. They have been used on a project-by-project basis in various locations across the state for several years.

    Now that a statewide PIF has been issued-and approved by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) - designers can specify the use of ScourStop transition mats (as a proprietary product) on both state and federally funded projects.

    As the name suggests, a Public Interest Finding is a state DOT request for FHWA approval-based on the public's best interest-that allows an exception to be made to one of the many state or federal rules, policies, or procedures that apply to construction contract lettings conducted by the Iowa DOT.

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    PIF approval remains a very rare occurrence. The Iowa DOT will submit a PIF on a product only after careful consideration and it is deemed to be more effective than existing procedures or practices. The PIF granted for ScourStop is unique in the sense that it is only the eighth "blanket" PIF, that is, for general use statewide, approved by the FHWA in the last 11 years. The FHWA has approved only 26 PIFs in Iowa since 1997, and 18 of those were for specific products on specific projects.

    Tom Carpenter, the creator of ScourStop Transition Mats and President of Erosion Tech LLC, understands the significance of being awarded a PIF from the Iowa DOT. "I'm very honored for our product to be selected for a PIF and for it to be recognized on a statewide basis. The Public Interest Finding will enable better statewide compliance with NPDES Phase II requirements, and provides the impetus for MS4 entities and private designers to specify vegetated, soft armor Best Management Practices. Hopefully, other states will concur with the Iowa DOT and FHWA in addressing the need for better revetment systems, vegetated solutions and NPDES Phase II compliance."

    For more details, visit www.scourstop.com]]>         NPDES News http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=274 10/24/2008 10:33:49 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=274 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/FBB598DDB8D5E38B70B219CB7AFF6FB0.jpg 1. Webcast on EPA's Industrial Stormwater Permit (MSGP), Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2008 – 12:00 – 2:00pm Eastern On September 29, 2008, EPA released a new industrial stormwater permit, the Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP), regulating the discharge of stormwater from industrial facilities in 29 different industrial sectors. The MSGP 2008 replaces the MSGP 2000 that expired on October 20, 2005. The MSGP 2008 requires industrial facilities to implement and maintain site-specific stormwater control measures and to develop stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs). This webcast will introduce industrial dischargers, members of the public, and State or Tribal permitting authorities to the new requirements of the MSGP 2008. The webcast will include a section-by-section summary of the permit’s requirements, highlight changes from the MSGP 2000, discuss SWPPP requirements, and describe how to apply for permit coverage. To sign up for this free webcast, go to http://www.epa.gov/npdes/training 2. National Research Council Report on Urban Stormwater The National Research Council, Water Sciences and Technology Board has just released the report "Urban Stormwater Management in the United States." The report is the product of a 2-year process undertaken by a 15-member committee of national experts. The study was commissioned by EPA in 2006 to evaluate the NPDES stormwater program program and make recommendations for improvement of the program. The 513 page report provides a description of the history of stormwater management in the United States; an overview of stormwater regulations and the federal regulatory program; and information on a number of relevant scientific and technological issues such as hydrology, geomorphology, biology, monitoring and modeling. The report also provides a number of significant findings and recommendations on how stormwater management in the United States should be improved to achieve better environmental outcomes. The study report is available at: www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater   The NRC press release is at: http://www8.nationalacademies.org/onpinews/newsitem.aspx?RecordID=12465    Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - cick here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 3. EPA's Construction General Permit now available in Oklahoma and Texas Permit coverage for EPA's 2008 construction general permit is now available in portions of Oklahoma and Texas. This includes Indian country in Oklahoma and Texas, and discharges that are not under the authority of the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality or the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. See Appendix B of the 2008 CGP for the list of areas eligible for coverage. Additional information on the CGP 2008 can be found at www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/cgp   4. Green Infrastructure Workshop in Louisville, KY, Nov. 6-7, 2008 EPA and the Kentucky Division of Water are sponsoring a one and a half day workshop on "Managing Wet Weather with Green Infrastructure" in Louisville, KY on Nov. 6-7, 2008. This workshop is intended for municipal governments with wet weather management responsibilities and will describe regulatory approaches, benefits of green infrastructure, retrofit opportunities, local codes, ordinances and incentives, design and construction, and operation and maintenance. Information about the workshop is available at www.epa.gov/npdes/training   EPA is planning additional green infrastructure workshops in other locations around the country this coming year. *** You can now manage your own account on NPDES News. Just go to http://www.epa.gov/npdes/npdesnews to subscribe, change your email address, edit your contact information, or unsubscribe. *** Contact Information: Nikos Singelis Office of Wastewater Management U.S. EPA 202-564-0692 1. Webcast on EPA's Industrial Stormwater Permit (MSGP), Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2008 – 12:00 – 2:00pm Eastern

    On September 29, 2008, EPA released a new industrial stormwater permit, the Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP), regulating the discharge of stormwater from industrial facilities in 29 different industrial sectors. The MSGP 2008 replaces the MSGP 2000 that expired on October 20, 2005. The MSGP 2008 requires industrial facilities to implement and maintain site-specific stormwater control measures and to develop stormwater pollution prevention plans (SWPPPs).

    This webcast will introduce industrial dischargers, members of the public, and State or Tribal permitting authorities to the new requirements of the MSGP 2008. The webcast will include a section-by-section summary of the permit’s requirements, highlight changes from the MSGP 2000, discuss SWPPP requirements, and describe how to apply for permit coverage. To sign up for this free webcast, go to http://www.epa.gov/npdes/training

    2. National Research Council Report on Urban Stormwater

    The National Research Council, Water Sciences and Technology Board has just released the report "Urban Stormwater Management in the United States." The report is the product of a 2-year process undertaken by a 15-member committee of national experts. The study was commissioned by EPA in 2006 to evaluate the NPDES stormwater program program and make recommendations for improvement of the program. The 513 page report provides a description of the history of stormwater management in the United States; an overview of stormwater regulations and the federal regulatory program; and information on a number of relevant scientific and technological issues such as hydrology, geomorphology, biology, monitoring and modeling. The report also provides a number of significant findings and recommendations on how stormwater management in the United States should be improved to achieve better environmental outcomes.

    The study report is available at: www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater  

    The NRC press release is at: http://www8.nationalacademies.org/onpinews/newsitem.aspx?RecordID=12465  

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    3. EPA's Construction General Permit now available in Oklahoma and Texas

    Permit coverage for EPA's 2008 construction general permit is now available in portions of Oklahoma and Texas. This includes Indian country in Oklahoma and Texas, and discharges that are not under the authority of the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality or the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality. See Appendix B of the 2008 CGP for the list of areas eligible for coverage. Additional information on the CGP 2008 can be found at www.epa.gov/npdes/stormwater/cgp  

    4. Green Infrastructure Workshop in Louisville, KY, Nov. 6-7, 2008

    EPA and the Kentucky Division of Water are sponsoring a one and a half day workshop on "Managing Wet Weather with Green Infrastructure" in Louisville, KY on Nov. 6-7, 2008. This workshop is intended for municipal governments with wet weather management responsibilities and will describe regulatory approaches, benefits of green infrastructure, retrofit opportunities, local codes, ordinances and incentives, design and construction, and operation and maintenance. Information about the workshop is available at www.epa.gov/npdes/training  

    EPA is planning additional green infrastructure workshops in other locations around the country this coming year.

    *** You can now manage your own account on NPDES News. Just go to http://www.epa.gov/npdes/npdesnews to subscribe, change your email address, edit your contact information, or unsubscribe. ***

    Contact Information:
    Nikos Singelis
    Office of Wastewater Management
    U.S. EPA
    202-564-0692    ]]>         TV News: Top Stories for the week of 10/22/2008 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=273 10/24/2008 10:28:53 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=273 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/5DC5E411FD66E5FA64C5D59024E29D8A.jpg Land and Water Magazine invites you to view ESCN.TV, our weekly internet newscast! Telephone Interview with Russ Adsit from IECA   JF New Recognized as Top Workplace New LID Approved Solution to Stormwater In The Spotlite - Hydro Grass Ti Tip of the Week - Jennifer Hildebrand talks about Stockpile Stabilization www.escn.tv Click to View Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - Click Here to Advertise ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Land and Water Magazine
    invites you to view ESCN.TV,
    our weekly internet newscast!

  • Telephone Interview with Russ Adsit from IECA 
  • JF New Recognized as Top Workplace
  • New LID Approved Solution to Stormwater
  • In The Spotlite - Hydro Grass
  • TiTip of the Week - Jennifer Hildebrand talks about Stockpile Stabilization

    www.escn.tv
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    • ]]>         EPA's New Stormwater Industrial Permit Requires Quick Action http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=272 10/22/2008 9:20:04 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=272 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/9DD681D00E96B95398D68393B1EF084B.jpg OLD SAYBROOK, Conn. - (Business Wire) On Monday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the release of the 2008 Multi-sector General Permit (MSGP) in the Federal Register ? after a 3 year wait. The MSGP 2008 replaces the 2000 MSGP which expired in October 2005, and regulates and authorizes the discharge of stormwater associated with industrial activities. The permit was effective on September 29, 2008 and your stormwater plan must be in place before the Notice of Intent (NOI) submission deadline. BLR® encourages industrial business owners and facility operators who are impacted by the 2008 Multi-sector General Permit (MSGP) change to act quickly. The submission deadline for NOIs for existing permit holders and unpermitted current dischargers is Jan 5, 2009. Businesses not in compliance with stormwater requirements face up to $32,500 in fines per day. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- “The structure of the 2008 MSGP differs greatly from the 2000 MSGP, providing greater distinction between effluent limitations and the requirements of the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan,” said Amanda Czepiel, JD, Legal Editor for Environmental Compliance at BLR. “Building owners and facility operators with industrial stormwater discharges should expect new monitoring and reporting requirements, and new procedures for determining eligibility under the Endangered Species and National Historic Preservation Acts and for calculating site-specific benchmarks.” The new 2008 Multi-sector General Permit (MSGP) affects building owners and facility operators in 29 different industrial sectors located in five states where EPA is the permitting authority, Indian country, and at federal facilities in all 50 states. Many states also use the 2008 MSGP as a basis for the formulation of their own, state-specific permits. To help understand the new permit and its impact, BLR has made a number of resources available: EHS Compliance Focus: EPA’s New Stormwater MSGP-2008: What You Need to Know Now http://www.blr.com/product.cfm/product/17105060/source/PRS/effort/129 Enviro.BLR.com http://www.blr.com/product.cfm/product/5120XX00/source/PRS/effort/129 Easy EHS Plan – Stormwater Pollution Prevention http://www.blr.com/product.cfm/17002000/source/PRS/effort/129 Summary of Permit Impact on Industrial Owners and Operators Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans will require revision to comply with 2008 MSGP before NOIs may be submitted for coverage. Permittees will now be required to submit an annual report to EPA that includes findings from annual comprehensive site inspections and a summary of corrective action. New reporting requirements apply to transfers, anticipated noncompliance, noncompliance, and planned changes. There is now a waiting period of 30 days after a Notice of Intent has been posted on EPA’s eNOI website for operators who have correctly completed and submitted their Notices of Intent to provide for sufficient review by the Fish and Wildlife Service and/or the National Marine Fisheries Service. There is some good news for permittees. EPA has added provisions enabling dischargers to avoid corrective action and subsequent monitoring requirements, and a waiver for inactive and unstaffed sites for benchmark monitoring and quarterly visual assessments. The permit contains different requirements for new and existing discharges that are discharging to water with a total maximum daily load (TMDL) as compared with those without a TMDL. What Owners and Operators need to do now to prepare: Review Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans and revise as needed to comply with the 2008 MSGP. Become familiar with EPA’s electronic submission system, eNOI. Determine eligibility under the Endangered Species Act and National Historic Preservation Act. Prepare information concerning the receiving water body, using EPA’s new web-based tool, the Water Locator. Prepare either a Notice of Intent or, if applicable, a No Exposure Certification. Become knowledgeable of applicable industry sector-specific requirements. OLD SAYBROOK, Conn. - (Business Wire) On Monday, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced the release of the 2008 Multi-sector General Permit (MSGP) in the Federal Register ? after a 3 year wait. The MSGP 2008 replaces the 2000 MSGP which expired in October 2005, and regulates and authorizes the discharge of stormwater associated with industrial activities. The permit was effective on September 29, 2008 and your stormwater plan must be in place before the Notice of Intent (NOI) submission deadline.

    BLR® encourages industrial business owners and facility operators who are impacted by the 2008 Multi-sector General Permit (MSGP) change to act quickly. The submission deadline for NOIs for existing permit holders and unpermitted current dischargers is Jan 5, 2009. Businesses not in compliance with stormwater requirements face up to $32,500 in fines per day.

    Story continues below
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    “The structure of the 2008 MSGP differs greatly from the 2000 MSGP, providing greater distinction between effluent limitations and the requirements of the Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan,” said Amanda Czepiel, JD, Legal Editor for Environmental Compliance at BLR. “Building owners and facility operators with industrial stormwater discharges should expect new monitoring and reporting requirements, and new procedures for determining eligibility under the Endangered Species and National Historic Preservation Acts and for calculating site-specific benchmarks.”

    The new 2008 Multi-sector General Permit (MSGP) affects building owners and facility operators in 29 different industrial sectors located in five states where EPA is the permitting authority, Indian country, and at federal facilities in all 50 states. Many states also use the 2008 MSGP as a basis for the formulation of their own, state-specific permits. To help understand the new permit and its impact, BLR has made a number of resources available:

    Summary of Permit Impact on Industrial Owners and Operators

    • Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans will require revision to comply with 2008 MSGP before NOIs may be submitted for coverage.
    • Permittees will now be required to submit an annual report to EPA that includes findings from annual comprehensive site inspections and a summary of corrective action.
    • New reporting requirements apply to transfers, anticipated noncompliance, noncompliance, and planned changes.
    • There is now a waiting period of 30 days after a Notice of Intent has been posted on EPA’s eNOI website for operators who have correctly completed and submitted their Notices of Intent to provide for sufficient review by the Fish and Wildlife Service and/or the National Marine Fisheries Service.
    • There is some good news for permittees. EPA has added provisions enabling dischargers to avoid corrective action and subsequent monitoring requirements, and a waiver for inactive and unstaffed sites for benchmark monitoring and quarterly visual assessments.
    • The permit contains different requirements for new and existing discharges that are discharging to water with a total maximum daily load (TMDL) as compared with those without a TMDL.

    What Owners and Operators need to do now to prepare:

    • Review Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans and revise as needed to comply with the 2008 MSGP.
    • Become familiar with EPA’s electronic submission system, eNOI.
    • Determine eligibility under the Endangered Species Act and National Historic Preservation Act.
    • Prepare information concerning the receiving water body, using EPA’s new web-based tool, the Water Locator.
    • Prepare either a Notice of Intent or, if applicable, a No Exposure Certification.
    • Become knowledgeable of applicable industry sector-specific requirements.
    ]]>         Climate Change Strategy to Help Manage Water Resources http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=271 10/22/2008 9:12:11 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=271 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/A80C1DFEA76861237523C792799D5C8B.jpg (Washington, D.C. – Oct. 2, 2008) To assist in responding to potential effects of climate change, a new strategy focuses on 40 specific actions for the national water program to take to respond to climate change. EPA's "National Water Program Strategy: Response to Climate Change" describes steps for managers to adapt their clean water, drinking water, and ocean protection programs. "Water is key to clean energy and climate change," said Benjamin H. Grumbles, EPA's assistant administrator for water. "Our water and climate strategy charts a course for timely and practical action, connecting the dots, drops, and watts for coordinated, sustainable results." Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- EPA water programs are already taking action related to climate change including the WaterSense water efficiency program, green infrastructure for wet weather management, Climate Ready Estuaries, and the proposed national rule for the injection of carbon dioxide underground. The water strategy identifies specific response actions in five areas: Mitigation of greenhouse gases Adaptation to climate change Research related to water and climate change Education on climate change Water program management of climate change Potential impacts of climate change on water resources reviewed in the strategy include increases in certain water pollution problems, changes in availability of drinking water supplies, and collective impacts on coastal areas. The strategy reflects input provided during a public comment period earlier this year. EPA has been working with other federal agencies to coordinate work on climate change and water. Recently, EPA issued a joint memorandum with the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, and Interior to describe cooperative efforts on climate change and water issues. Information on the strategy: http://www.epa.gov/water/climatechange   (Washington, D.C. – Oct. 2, 2008) To assist in responding to potential effects of climate change, a new strategy focuses on 40 specific actions for the national water program to take to respond to climate change. EPA's "National Water Program Strategy: Response to Climate Change" describes steps for managers to adapt their clean water, drinking water, and ocean protection programs.

    "Water is key to clean energy and climate change," said Benjamin H. Grumbles, EPA's assistant administrator for water. "Our water and climate strategy charts a course for timely and practical action, connecting the dots, drops, and watts for coordinated, sustainable results."

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    EPA water programs are already taking action related to climate change including the WaterSense water efficiency program, green infrastructure for wet weather management, Climate Ready Estuaries, and the proposed national rule for the injection of carbon dioxide underground.

    The water strategy identifies specific response actions in five areas:

    • Mitigation of greenhouse gases
    • Adaptation to climate change
    • Research related to water and climate change
    • Education on climate change
    • Water program management of climate change

    Potential impacts of climate change on water resources reviewed in the strategy include increases in certain water pollution problems, changes in availability of drinking water supplies, and collective impacts on coastal areas. The strategy reflects input provided during a public comment period earlier this year.

    EPA has been working with other federal agencies to coordinate work on climate change and water. Recently, EPA issued a joint memorandum with the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Defense, and Interior to describe cooperative efforts on climate change and water issues.

    Information on the strategy: http://www.epa.gov/water/climatechange  

    ]]>         EPA's Stormwater Program Needs a Significant Overhaul to Improve its Effectiveness and the Quality of Urgan Streams http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=270 10/22/2008 8:58:37 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=270 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/3C6E5386B3E14F4808803C591D9E82B5.jpg WASHINGTON -- Radical changes to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's stormwater program are necessary to reverse degradation of fresh water resources and ensure progress toward the Clean Water Act's goal of "fishable and swimmable" waters, says a new report from the National Research Council. Increased water volume and pollutants from stormwater have degraded water quality and habitats in virtually every urban stream system. To provide meaningful regulation, all stormwater and other wastewater discharge permits should be based on watershed boundaries instead of political boundaries. Moreover, the program should integrate stormwater management and land management practices, and focus less on chemical pollutants in the stormwater and more on the increased flow of water. Following rain or snow in urban areas, large quantities of water flow over impervious surfaces -- such as streets, parking lots, and rooftops -- and pick up various pollutants like garbage, asphalt sealants, motor fuels, and other chemicals. This polluted stormwater is then collected by natural channels and artificial drainage systems and ultimately routed to nearby streams, rivers, and other bodies of water. Although urban stormwater's role in degrading the nation's water supply has been recognized for decades, reducing that role has been difficult. In 1987, Congress brought stormwater control into the Clean Water Act and placed it under the supervision of the Environmental Protection Agency, which now oversees stormwater discharged by cities, industries, and construction sites. However, the current regulatory framework for stormwater, which was originally designed to address sewage and industrial wastes, has suffered from poor accountability and uncertainty about its effectiveness at improving water quality. In light of these challenges, EPA asked the Research Council to assess its stormwater permitting program. EPA's current approach is not likely to produce an accurate picture of the extent of the problem, nor is it likely to control stormwater's contribution to impairing water quality, said the committee that wrote the report. Currently, stormwater and wastewater regulations require separate permits; within stormwater regulations, different types of permits exist for municipalities, industries, and construction sites. The committee recommended that EPA should adopt a watershed-based permitting system that would encompass all discharges -- including stormwater and wastewater -- which could impact waterways in a particular drainage basin, rather than having many individual permits. Responsibility and authority for implementing watershed-based permits should be centralized with a lead municipality that would work in partnership with other municipalities. In addition, lead municipalities should receive enhanced funding to compensate for increased responsibility, the committee suggested. Even in the absence of adopting watershed-based permitting, additional adjustments could be made to the stormwater program, such as bringing construction and industrial sites under the jurisdiction of their associated municipalities, referred to as "integration" by the committee. Federal and state permitting authorities do not have nor could expect to have sufficient personnel to inspect and enforce stormwater regulations on more than 100,000 discrete point source facilities discharging stormwater. A better structure would allow operators of municipal storm sewer systems to act as the first tier of control. EPA's successful treatment program for municipal and industrial wastewater sources could serve as a model for integration. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Because the area being appropriated for urban land use is growing faster than the population, stormwater management will be ineffective without also considering land use management, the report says. Future land development and its potential increases in stormwater must be considered and addressed in the EPA's stormwater regulatory program. For example, permit programs could be predicated on rigorous projections of future growth and changes in impervious cover, or regulators could be encouraged to use incentives to lessen the impact of land development. Additionally, the committee recommended that the stormwater program focus less on chemical pollutants and more on the increased volume of water. In urban areas, stormwater flows rapidly across the land surfaces and arrives at streams in short, concentrated bursts of high water discharges, which in turn increases streambank erosion and accompanying sediment pollution of surface water. The volume of discharges is generally not regulated at all by EPA, the committee noted. Also, little account is given to the cumulative contributions of multiple sources and pollutants in the same watershed, because most discharges are regulated on an individual basis. Further stormwater control measures assessed by the committee include: conserving natural areas, reducing hard surface cover such as roads and parking lots that channel stormwater into waterways, and retrofitting urban areas with features that hold and treat stormwater. Moreover, the committee recommended that the federal government provide more financial support to state and local efforts to regulate stormwater. Funds for the wastewater program greatly outnumber the stormwater program, even though there are five times more stormwater permit holders than wastewater permit holders. The report was sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, Institute of Medicine, and National Research Council make up the National Academies. They are private, nonprofit institutions that provide science, technology, and health policy advice under a congressional charter. The Research Council is the principal operating agency of the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Engineering.
    Following rain or snow in urban areas, large quantities of water flow over impervious surfaces -- such as streets, parking lots, and rooftops -- and pick up various pollutants like garbage, asphalt sealants, motor fuels, and other chemicals. This polluted stormwater is then collected by natural channels and artificial drainage systems and ultimately routed to nearby streams, rivers, and other bodies of water.

    Although urban stormwater's role in degrading the nation's water supply has been recognized for decades, reducing that role has been difficult. In 1987, Congress brought stormwater control into the Clean Water Act and placed it under the supervision of the Environmental Protection Agency, which now oversees stormwater discharged by cities, industries, and construction sites. However, the current regulatory framework for stormwater, which was originally designed to address sewage and industrial wastes, has suffered from poor accountability and uncertainty about its effectiveness at improving water quality. In light of these challenges, EPA asked the Research Council to assess its stormwater permitting program.

    EPA's current approach is not likely to produce an accurate picture of the extent of the problem, nor is it likely to control stormwater's contribution to impairing water quality, said the committee that wrote the report. Currently, stormwater and wastewater regulations require separate permits; within stormwater regulations, different types of permits exist for municipalities, industries, and construction sites. The committee recommended that EPA should adopt a watershed-based permitting system that would encompass all discharges -- including stormwater and wastewater -- which could impact waterways in a particular drainage basin, rather than having many individual permits. Responsibility and authority for implementing watershed-based permits should be centralized with a lead municipality that would work in partnership with other municipalities. In addition, lead municipalities should receive enhanced funding to compensate for increased responsibility, the committee suggested.

    Even in the absence of adopting watershed-based permitting, additional adjustments could be made to the stormwater program, such as bringing construction and industrial sites under the jurisdiction of their associated municipalities, referred to as "integration" by the committee. Federal and state permitting authorities do not have nor could expect to have sufficient personnel to inspect and enforce stormwater regulations on more than 100,000 discrete point source facilities discharging stormwater. A better structure would allow operators of municipal storm sewer systems to act as the first tier of control. EPA's successful treatment program for municipal and industrial wastewater sources could serve as a model for integration.

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    Because the area being appropriated for urban land use is growing faster than the population, stormwater management will be ineffective without also considering land use management, the report says. Future land development and its potential increases in stormwater must be considered and addressed in the EPA's stormwater regulatory program. For example, permit programs could be predicated on rigorous projections of future growth and changes in impervious cover, or regulators could be encouraged to use incentives to lessen the impact of land development.

    Additionally, the committee recommended that the stormwater program focus less on chemical pollutants and more on the increased volume of water. In urban areas, stormwater flows rapidly across the land surfaces and arrives at streams in short, concentrated bursts of high water discharges, which in turn increases streambank erosion and accompanying sediment pollution of surface water. The volume of discharges is generally not regulated at all by EPA, the committee noted. Also, little account is given to the cumulative contributions of multiple sources and pollutants in the same watershed, because most discharges are regulated on an individual basis.

    Further stormwater control measures assessed by the committee include: conserving natural areas, reducing hard surface cover such as roads and parking lots that channel stormwater into waterways, and retrofitting urban areas with features that hold and treat stormwater. Moreover, the committee recommended that the federal government provide more financial support to state and local efforts to regulate stormwater. Funds for the wastewater program greatly outnumber the stormwater program, even though there are five times more stormwater permit holders than wastewater permit holders.

    The report was sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, Institute of Medicine, and National Research Council make up the National Academies. They are private, nonprofit institutions that provide science, technology, and health policy advice under a congressional charter. The Research Council is the principal operating agency of the National Academy of Sciences and the National Academy of Engineering.]]>         TV News: Top Stories for the week of 10/8/2008 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=269 10/9/2008 8:11:31 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=269 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/1D53FB030DEE7D4BB3BB310FCA72F3E3.jpg Land and Water Magazine invites you to view ESCN.TV, our weekly internet newscast! Profiling Industry Survivor - Land and Water Magazine   Permeable Pavement Stormwater Workshop Hydro International Realigns Business Structure After Acquisition In The Spotlite - Elastec Tip of the Week - Alex Zimmerman talks about choosing the right RECP www.escn.tv Click to View Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - Click Here to Advertise ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------   Land and Water Magazine
    invites you to view ESCN.TV,
    our weekly internet newscast!

  • Profiling Industry Survivor - Land and Water Magazine 
  • Permeable Pavement Stormwater Workshop
  • Hydro International Realigns Business Structure After Acquisition
  • In The Spotlite - Elastec
  • Tip of the Week - Alex Zimmerman talks about choosing the right RECP

    www.escn.tv
    Click to View

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    • ]]>         Rust Infested Leaf Tissue http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=268 10/3/2008 10:09:52 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=268 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/F90BFB2DFA2082E34178C7CFEA5DE92A.jpg Ms. Lisa Beirn, a graduate student at Rutgers University, is requesting samples of rust infested leaf tissue from various warm and cool season grasses. Working in conjunction with turf pathologist Dr. Bruce Clarke, she is beginning a population study of these pathogens. Over the past several years, Rutgers University turf breeders have noticed shifts in susceptibility of certain turf varieties to rust. It is suspected that multiple species and races of rust are responsible for the symptoms observed and it is anticipated that a population study of the rusts will determine this. Currently, Lisa is avidly collecting infested leaf tissue in New Jersey, but would like to gather material from different geographic locations as well. If infested tissue is present, please forward material to Rutgers University. Sampling rust-infested leaf tissue involves placing a handful of leaves bearing visible infection in an envelope. If possible, please label the envelope with the host/variety (if known), the location, and contact information. All contact information will be kept confidential. The mailing address is: Contact Information: Lisa Beirn Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey Department of Plant Biology and Pathology 59 Dudley Road New Brunswick, NJ 08901 Thank you for your interest and participation. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Ms. Lisa Beirn, a graduate student at Rutgers University, is requesting samples of rust infested leaf tissue from various warm and cool season grasses. Working in conjunction with turf pathologist Dr. Bruce Clarke, she is beginning a population study of these pathogens.



    Over the past several years, Rutgers University turf breeders have noticed shifts in susceptibility of certain turf varieties to rust. It is suspected that multiple species and races of rust are responsible for the symptoms observed and it is anticipated that a population study of the rusts will determine this. Currently, Lisa is avidly collecting infested leaf tissue in New Jersey, but would like to gather material from different geographic locations as well. If infested tissue is present, please forward material to Rutgers University. Sampling rust-infested leaf tissue involves placing a handful of leaves bearing visible infection in an envelope.

    If possible, please label the envelope with the host/variety (if known), the location, and contact information. All contact information will be kept confidential. The mailing address is:

    Contact Information:
    Lisa Beirn
    Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
    Department of Plant Biology and Pathology
    59 Dudley Road New Brunswick, NJ 08901

    Thank you for your interest and participation.

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    ]]>         Caterpillar to Unveil the Next Generation of Mining Trucks http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=267 9/19/2008 4:40:25 PM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=267 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/12693A30DB7AF867FC93CBB15A2F4B5C.jpg Mechanical and Electric Drive Trucks to be Showcased at MINExpo 2008 PEORIA, IL - Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) is unveiling the next generation of mining trucks at MINExpo 2008 in Las Vegas, NV. Along with improved safety features, Tier 2 compliant engines and new integrated technologies in the existing Cat mining fleet, the company has developed electric drive mining trucks that will debut at the expo September 22-24, 2008. "When our customers asked us for improvements to our mining trucks, we responded by making a record investment in every single truck in our line, as well as the increased capacity to produce more of them," said Caterpillar Group President Stu Levenick. "New technologies have allowed us to make trucks more reliable, easier to maintain and more friendly to the operator and to the environment". While Caterpillar believes mechanical drive is the best solution for the vast majority of situations, the company listened to its customers and explored the situations and conditions where electric drive would be the preferred option. As the only manufacturer of 200-ton and above mining trucks with both drives, Cat is able to offer trucks that address all of its customers' preferences. "Cat will produce mining trucks for every application—uphill, downhill, flat or extreme conditions—and now with electric as well as mechanical drive," said Chris Curfman, president of Cat Global Mining & vice president of Caterpillar Inc. At MINExpo 2008 Caterpillar will introduce four new trucks. The 793 series in the 240- to 250-ton class will be available in both mechanical (793F) and electric (793F AC) versions. The 345-ton 795F AC, a new size for Caterpillar, will be available in electric drive only, while the flagship 797B is replaced by the new 797F mechanical drive, maintaining its 380- to 400-ton target payload. The 797F and 795F AC, along with the recently introduced 777F, will be displayed on the exhibit floor. Completing Caterpillar's new mining truck line will be new versions of the 785 and 789 mechanical drive trucks, upgraded to meet customer requirements for safety, serviceability, operator comfort and emission standards. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- "The breadth of our product line puts our customers in a unique position to evaluate and select the best fit for their operations," said Curfman. "Every machine is designed, built, serviced and supported by Caterpillar and the Cat dealer network, so customers get higher availability and a lower cost per ton—from one reliable source." In the late 1960s Caterpillar was one of the first manufacturers to commercialize electric-drive trucks but elected to focus its design and development efforts on mechanical drive. With advances in AC drive technology, coupled with proven components and technologies from existing Caterpillar products, the company concluded it was the appropriate time to make electric drive available to its customers as a complement to its highly successful mechanical drive. The next generation of trucks will be phased into production over the next two years, with the Cat AC drive models expected to go into production in late 2010. About Caterpillar: For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2007 sales and revenues of $44.958 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services. More information is available at: http://www.cat.com/
    PEORIA, IL - Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) is unveiling the next generation of mining trucks at MINExpo 2008 in Las Vegas, NV. Along with improved safety features, Tier 2 compliant engines and new integrated technologies in the existing Cat mining fleet, the company has developed electric drive mining trucks that will debut at the expo September 22-24, 2008.

    "When our customers asked us for improvements to our mining trucks, we responded by making a record investment in every single truck in our line, as well as the increased capacity to produce more of them," said Caterpillar Group President Stu Levenick. "New technologies have allowed us to make trucks more reliable, easier to maintain and more friendly to the operator and to the environment".

    While Caterpillar believes mechanical drive is the best solution for the vast majority of situations, the company listened to its customers and explored the situations and conditions where electric drive would be the preferred option. As the only manufacturer of 200-ton and above mining trucks with both drives, Cat is able to offer trucks that address all of its customers' preferences.

    "Cat will produce mining trucks for every application—uphill, downhill, flat or extreme conditions—and now with electric as well as mechanical drive," said Chris Curfman, president of Cat Global Mining & vice president of Caterpillar Inc.

    At MINExpo 2008 Caterpillar will introduce four new trucks. The 793 series in the 240- to 250-ton class will be available in both mechanical (793F) and electric (793F AC) versions. The 345-ton 795F AC, a new size for Caterpillar, will be available in electric drive only, while the flagship 797B is replaced by the new 797F mechanical drive, maintaining its 380- to 400-ton target payload. The 797F and 795F AC, along with the recently introduced 777F, will be displayed on the exhibit floor. Completing Caterpillar's new mining truck line will be new versions of the 785 and 789 mechanical drive trucks, upgraded to meet customer requirements for safety, serviceability, operator comfort and emission standards.

    Story continues below
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    "The breadth of our product line puts our customers in a unique position to evaluate and select the best fit for their operations," said Curfman. "Every machine is designed, built, serviced and supported by Caterpillar and the Cat dealer network, so customers get higher availability and a lower cost per ton—from one reliable source."

    In the late 1960s Caterpillar was one of the first manufacturers to commercialize electric-drive trucks but elected to focus its design and development efforts on mechanical drive. With advances in AC drive technology, coupled with proven components and technologies from existing Caterpillar products, the company concluded it was the appropriate time to make electric drive available to its customers as a complement to its highly successful mechanical drive.

    The next generation of trucks will be phased into production over the next two years, with the Cat AC drive models expected to go into production in late 2010.

    About Caterpillar:
    For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2007 sales and revenues of $44.958 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services. More information is available at: http://www.cat.com/]]>         PLANET to Launch New Operating Cost Study for the Green Industry Report at GIC http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=266 9/17/2008 9:26:40 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=266 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/39169F0BCEC32CE7436D202C3ED91E54.jpg Herndon, Va., September 5, 2008 — The Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) is set to release the 2008 Operating Cost Study for the Green Industry publication, a newly revised comprehensive collection of financial data from green industry firms surveyed nationwide, at its upcoming Green Industry Conference (GIC), October 22–25, 2008, in Louisville, Kentucky. The publication, sponsored by Agrium Advanced Technologies, provides the financial information green industry professionals need to evaluate, plan, and better manage their businesses. Results profiled in the report are based on income statements, balance sheets, and operating data provided by the participating companies. The charts contained in the report are designed to provide comprehensive, yet straightforward guidelines for analyzing profitability among green industry companies. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The report is organized into several sections — an executive summary with an overview of the study results; detailed results with in-depth reporting of return on investment, income statements, balance sheets, financial ratios and productivity ratios; line-of-business analysis with breakouts on the key operating segments within the industry; and an appendix that provides an overview of the survey methodology and detailed information on the calculation of the financial ratios used in the report. Following GIC, copies of the Operating Cost Study   for the Green Industry can be ordered through the PLANET Bookstore at LandcareNetwork.org or by calling (800) 293-5542. PLANET is the association of members who create and maintain the QUALITY OF LIFE in communities across America. With more than 4,200 member companies and affiliates, these firms and their employees represent more than 100,000 green industry professionals. Herndon, Va., September 5, 2008 — The Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) is set to release the 2008 Operating Cost Study for the Green Industry publication, a newly revised comprehensive collection of financial data from green industry firms surveyed nationwide, at its upcoming Green Industry Conference (GIC), October 22–25, 2008, in Louisville, Kentucky.

    The publication, sponsored by Agrium Advanced Technologies, provides the financial information green industry professionals need to evaluate, plan, and better manage their businesses. Results profiled in the report are based on income statements, balance sheets, and operating data provided by the participating companies. The charts contained in the report are designed to provide comprehensive, yet straightforward guidelines for analyzing profitability among green industry companies.

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    The report is organized into several sections — an executive summary with an overview of the study results; detailed results with in-depth reporting of return on investment, income statements, balance sheets, financial ratios and productivity ratios; line-of-business analysis with breakouts on the key operating segments within the industry; and an appendix that provides an overview of the survey methodology and detailed information on the calculation of the financial ratios used in the report.

    Following GIC, copies of the Operating Cost Study for the Green Industry can be ordered through the PLANET Bookstore at LandcareNetwork.org or by calling (800) 293-5542.

    PLANET is the association of members who create and maintain the QUALITY OF LIFE in communities across America. With more than 4,200 member companies and affiliates, these firms and their employees represent more than 100,000 green industry professionals.]]>         World Bank To Provide $149 Million To Improve Water, Sanitation Services In Bangladesh Capital http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=265 9/17/2008 9:21:59 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=265 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/AF68E0E6B6E1BAAEB85A8BAD918B68EA.jpg The World Bank will provide $149 million for implementing a new project to improve stormwater and wastewater drainage and water services in the Bangladesh capital of Dhaka. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The project has three major components: 1. The project will install selected stormwater pumping stations and rehabilitate selected canals to help improve drainage and minimize urban flooding. 2. The project will carry out rehabilitation, repair and expansion of priority investments in Dhaka city's sewerage network and treatment plant to improve the urban environment. 3. The project will support a pilot program expansion of water and sanitation services into selected Dhaka slums to provide services to the urban poor residing in the slum areas. View the full story . Source: AHN Media Corporation

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    The project has three major components:

    1. The project will install selected stormwater pumping stations and rehabilitate selected canals to help improve drainage and minimize urban flooding.

    2. The project will carry out rehabilitation, repair and expansion of priority investments in Dhaka city's sewerage network and treatment plant to improve the urban environment.

    3. The project will support a pilot program expansion of water and sanitation services into selected Dhaka slums to provide services to the urban poor residing in the slum areas.

    View the full story.

    Source: AHN Media Corporation]]>         EPA Provides Incentives for Clean Water Permit Fee Programs http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=264 9/17/2008 9:20:54 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=264 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/ECB285D22A23F6F88CC93B63F75AEC62.jpg EPA is issuing a new rule that will provide financial incentives for states to use fees when administering a clean water permit program. EPA can give up to a total of $5.1 million to states that have adequate permit fees for their National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) programs. This rule is designed to encourage states to voluntarily implement adequate fee programs and to shift part of the financial burden to those who benefit from the permits. It also will allow states to move funds to other critical water quality program activities.   Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The permit fee incentive will only be made available if federal funding for state water pollution control programs is more than the fiscal year 2008 level. Therefore, state grants will not decrease as a result of this rulemaking. The rule will be in effect for the fiscal year 2009 grant cycle and beyond. Read more about the Water Pollution Control Program Grants . Source: US EPA news release, September 4, 2008. EPA is issuing a new rule that will provide financial incentives for states to use fees when administering a clean water permit program. EPA can give up to a total of $5.1 million to states that have adequate permit fees for their National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) programs.

    This rule is designed to encourage states to voluntarily implement adequate fee programs and to shift part of the financial burden to those who benefit from the permits. It also will allow states to move funds to other critical water quality program activities.  

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    The permit fee incentive will only be made available if federal funding for state water pollution control programs is more than the fiscal year 2008 level. Therefore, state grants will not decrease as a result of this rulemaking. The rule will be in effect for the fiscal year 2009 grant cycle and beyond.

    Read more about the Water Pollution Control Program Grants.

    Source: US EPA news release, September 4, 2008.

    ]]>         Caterpillar Chairman and CEO Jim Owens Unveils First Russian Assembled Hydraulic Excavator at CONEXPO Russia http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=263 9/17/2008 9:18:01 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=263 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/384DDB6709C3538643B3A0B746ADCA34.jpg New machine production in Russia demonstrates Caterpillar's support of its growing customer base in Russia MOSCOW, Sept. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Building on an 80-year history of serving customers in Russia, Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) today unveiled the first hydraulic excavator assembled at the company's facility in Tosno, Russia. The machine is part of the Caterpillar display at the CONEXPO Russia trade show being held September 15-18 at the International Exhibition Center, Crocus Expo in Moscow. In addition to the 320D hydraulic excavator assembled in Tosno, the Caterpillar display includes more than two dozen Caterpillar machines and engines as well as displays focusing on Caterpillar services to help customers. A full range of Caterpillar paving and road building products will also be on display, targeting customers who are involved in the wide-range of transportation projects underway and planned in support of Russia's economic growth initiatives. Earlier this year, Caterpillar announced it was implementing its long-planned strategy to include core machine assembly operations in its existing component production facility at Tosno. Caterpillar has manufactured components in Tosno since 2000, exporting those components from Russia to other Caterpillar machine factories in Europe. The hydraulic excavators assembled in Tosno are the first core machines Caterpillar has produced in Russia. The Tosno-built machines will be sold to customers in the rapidly expanding Russian market. "In the last five years, our sales in Russia have increased more than 550 percent as we have supported customers who are playing a critical role in the strong growth and positive economic development taking place across Russia," Owens said. "The expansion of our operations in Russia in recent years, including the addition of excavator assembly at our Tosno facility, demonstrates our commitment to customers in Russia." A major focus for Caterpillar in Russia and at the CONEXPO show is the oil and gas business in Russia. Across Russia, Caterpillar customers are using machines and engines to support oil and gas exploration, construction of pipelines and other infrastructure projects related to this vital industry. In recognition of the importance of the Russian market to the pipeline industry, CONEXPO Russia is the first trade show where Caterpillar is displaying its newest pipelayer, the PL61. With an 18-ton lift capacity, the PL61 pipelayer was designed and built primarily for pipeline contractors working in the most challenging environments. The machine features a Caterpillar C6.6 engine featuring ACERT Technology, and meets all current global emissions standards. Caterpillar is also displaying a 594 pipelayer that was originally sold to a Russian customer in 1971. "The new PL61 pipelayer is the latest example of a world-class Caterpillar product that will allow our customers to increase the success of their operations," said Paolo Fellin, vice president of Caterpillar's EAME marketing Division, which includes Russia. "The 594 pipelayer is a great example of the durability, reliability and unique services that have made Caterpillar and our products the global leader in the industries we serve. Along with our world-class dealer network and our financial and logistics service businesses in Russia, Caterpillar provides unsurpassed value to our customers," Fellin added. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Caterpillar is celebrating the 35th anniversary of its first business office in Russia, which opened in 1973 in Moscow. Today, Caterpillar and its dealers have more than 100 locations and 4,000 employees in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). In addition to the production facility in Tosno, Caterpillar operates a large parts distribution center near Moscow. Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation also has offices in Russia to assist in product financing as well as supporting projects in the region. The company's history in Russia dates to the early part of the last century. In 1929, the "Zernotrest" or Russia Grain Trust ordered more than 1,300 track-type tractors and 750 combine harvesters from Caterpillar after extensive testing and a competition with several manufacturers. "Our sales to Russia and other nations during the late 1920s and 1930s helped Caterpillar weather the great depression," Owens said. "It is a perfect example of Caterpillar's long history and support of international trade and laws that support open trade, which is beneficial to the global economy. Those same economic principles benefit Caterpillar today as the slowdown in the North American economy has been more than offset by our increased sales to markets like Russia," Owens added. About Caterpillar For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2007 sales and revenues of $44.958 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services. More information is available at: http://www.cat.com . Source: http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=92466&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1197453&highlight
    MOSCOW, Sept. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Building on an 80-year history of serving customers in Russia, Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) today unveiled the first hydraulic excavator assembled at the company's facility in Tosno, Russia. The machine is part of the Caterpillar display at the CONEXPO Russia trade show being held September 15-18 at the International Exhibition Center, Crocus Expo in Moscow. In addition to the 320D hydraulic excavator assembled in Tosno, the Caterpillar display includes more than two dozen Caterpillar machines and engines as well as displays focusing on Caterpillar services to help customers. A full range of Caterpillar paving and road building products will also be on display, targeting customers who are involved in the wide-range of transportation projects underway and planned in support of Russia's economic growth initiatives.

    Earlier this year, Caterpillar announced it was implementing its long-planned strategy to include core machine assembly operations in its existing component production facility at Tosno. Caterpillar has manufactured components in Tosno since 2000, exporting those components from Russia to other Caterpillar machine factories in Europe. The hydraulic excavators assembled in Tosno are the first core machines Caterpillar has produced in Russia. The Tosno-built machines will be sold to customers in the rapidly expanding Russian market.

    "In the last five years, our sales in Russia have increased more than 550 percent as we have supported customers who are playing a critical role in the strong growth and positive economic development taking place across Russia," Owens said. "The expansion of our operations in Russia in recent years, including the addition of excavator assembly at our Tosno facility, demonstrates our commitment to customers in Russia."

    A major focus for Caterpillar in Russia and at the CONEXPO show is the oil and gas business in Russia. Across Russia, Caterpillar customers are using machines and engines to support oil and gas exploration, construction of pipelines and other infrastructure projects related to this vital industry. In recognition of the importance of the Russian market to the pipeline industry, CONEXPO Russia is the first trade show where Caterpillar is displaying its newest pipelayer, the PL61. With an 18-ton lift capacity, the PL61 pipelayer was designed and built primarily for pipeline contractors working in the most challenging environments. The machine features a Caterpillar C6.6 engine featuring ACERT Technology, and meets all current global emissions standards. Caterpillar is also displaying a 594 pipelayer that was originally sold to a Russian customer in 1971.

    "The new PL61 pipelayer is the latest example of a world-class Caterpillar product that will allow our customers to increase the success of their operations," said Paolo Fellin, vice president of Caterpillar's EAME marketing Division, which includes Russia. "The 594 pipelayer is a great example of the durability, reliability and unique services that have made Caterpillar and our products the global leader in the industries we serve. Along with our world-class dealer network and our financial and logistics service businesses in Russia, Caterpillar provides unsurpassed value to our customers," Fellin added.

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    Caterpillar is celebrating the 35th anniversary of its first business office in Russia, which opened in 1973 in Moscow. Today, Caterpillar and its dealers have more than 100 locations and 4,000 employees in Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS). In addition to the production facility in Tosno, Caterpillar operates a large parts distribution center near Moscow. Caterpillar Financial Services Corporation also has offices in Russia to assist in product financing as well as supporting projects in the region. The company's history in Russia dates to the early part of the last century. In 1929, the "Zernotrest" or Russia Grain Trust ordered more than 1,300 track-type tractors and 750 combine harvesters from Caterpillar after extensive testing and a competition with several manufacturers.

    "Our sales to Russia and other nations during the late 1920s and 1930s helped Caterpillar weather the great depression," Owens said. "It is a perfect example of Caterpillar's long history and support of international trade and laws that support open trade, which is beneficial to the global economy. Those same economic principles benefit Caterpillar today as the slowdown in the North American economy has been more than offset by our increased sales to markets like Russia," Owens added.

    About Caterpillar
    For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2007 sales and revenues of $44.958 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services. More information is available at: http://www.cat.com.

    Source: http://phx.corporate-ir.net/phoenix.zhtml?c=92466&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1197453&highlight]]>         Stormwater Webcast – Tools and Guidance for Developing Your Post-Construction Stormwater Management Program, September 3, 2008 – 12 – 2 pm Eastern http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=262 9/3/2008 8:06:33 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=262 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/B3D2256A689BF45F581F194A427735F6.jpg Join us for a discussion on the Center for Watershed Protection's new manual "Managing Stormwater in Your Community: A Guide for Building an Effective Post-Construction Program." This webcast will feature a detailed look at the tools and key features of the new manual, including conducting a program self-assessment, developing effective stormwater management criteria, incorporating credits for LID and runoff reduction, building a local guidance manual using off-the-shelf resources, and more. To register for this free webcast, please visit www.epa.gov/npdes/training    Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- *** You can now manage your own account on NPDES News. Just go to www.epa.gov/npdes/npdesnews  to subscribe, change your email address, edit your contact information, or unsubscribe. *** Contact Information: Nikos Singelis Office of Wastewater Management U.S. EPA 202-564-0692 Join us for a discussion on the Center for Watershed Protection's new manual "Managing Stormwater in Your Community: A Guide for Building an Effective Post-Construction Program." This webcast will feature a detailed look at the tools and key features of the new manual, including conducting a program self-assessment, developing effective stormwater management criteria, incorporating credits for LID and runoff reduction, building a local guidance manual using off-the-shelf resources, and more. To register for this free webcast, please visit www.epa.gov/npdes/training  

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    *** You can now manage your own account on NPDES News. Just go to www.epa.gov/npdes/npdesnews  to subscribe, change your email address, edit your contact information, or unsubscribe. ***

    Contact Information:
    Nikos Singelis
    Office of Wastewater Management
    U.S. EPA
    202-564-0692

    ]]>         Solar(TM) Turbines Customer in China is First Outside of the United States to Receive Prestigious Award from U.S. Environmental Protection Agency http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=261 9/3/2008 8:03:53 AM http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/news/news_detail.aspx?n=261 http://www.erosioncontrolnetwork.com/images/newsitems/thumbs/701A67B92AD26E133FC7D558BDDA4A0A.jpg JINAN, China, Sept. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- A Chinese customer of Caterpillar Inc. (NYSE: CAT) subsidiary Solar Turbines is the first foreign business to win the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) International CHP Award. Since 1999, the award has been given to organizations that increase electric generation efficiency through the development of highly efficient combined heat and power (CHP) projects. United States Assistant Secretary of Commerce David Bohigian presented the award to Shandong Jinneng Coal Gasification Co., Ltd. for its use of a Solar turbine to create electricity from burning coke oven gas at an operation in Shandong province. "A growing number of coke oven gas operators in China are turning to our turbines to convert this hazardous gas into electricity," said Steve Gosselin, Caterpillar vice president with responsibility for Solar Turbines Incorporated. "Using Solar turbines in a coke oven gas application not only makes commercial sense, but as this award demonstrates, it also benefits the environment." The EPA estimates that the Solar based CHP system at Shandong Jinneng Coal Gasification reduces CO2 emissions by 40,000 tons per year, the equivalent of removing annual emissions from approximately 6,600 automobiles. The company uses a Solar(TM) gas turbine to burn coke oven gas to create electricity. Waste heat from the turbine is also used to produce steam. The power plant operates at 68 percent efficiency and uses about 26 percent less fuel than equivalent separate heat and power. "The use of this technology and the award from the EPA is another example of the value that Caterpillar and its companies can bring to our customers in China," said Tom Bluth, Caterpillar vice president with responsibility for Asia Pacific manufacturing operations. "As Caterpillar expands its operations and business in China, we will continue to enhance our offerings to drive sustainable development and the sustainable benefits of working with a global leader that provides solutions to make our customers more successful." About Solar Turbines: Solar Turbines Incorporated, headquartered in San Diego, California, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. Solar manufactures the world's most widely used family of mid-sized industrial gas turbines. More than 12,000 Solar units are operating in 93 countries around the world. Primary applications include electric power generation, oil and natural gas production and gas transmission. Story continues below --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- paid advertisement - click here to advertise --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- About Caterpillar For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2007 sales and revenues of $44.958 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services. More information is available at: http://www.cat.com  
    "A growing number of coke oven gas operators in China are turning to our turbines to convert this hazardous gas into electricity," said Steve Gosselin, Caterpillar vice president with responsibility for Solar Turbines Incorporated. "Using Solar turbines in a coke oven gas application not only makes commercial sense, but as this award demonstrates, it also benefits the environment."

    The EPA estimates that the Solar based CHP system at Shandong Jinneng Coal Gasification reduces CO2 emissions by 40,000 tons per year, the equivalent of removing annual emissions from approximately 6,600 automobiles.

    The company uses a Solar(TM) gas turbine to burn coke oven gas to create electricity. Waste heat from the turbine is also used to produce steam. The power plant operates at 68 percent efficiency and uses about 26 percent less fuel than equivalent separate heat and power.

    "The use of this technology and the award from the EPA is another example of the value that Caterpillar and its companies can bring to our customers in China," said Tom Bluth, Caterpillar vice president with responsibility for Asia Pacific manufacturing operations. "As Caterpillar expands its operations and business in China, we will continue to enhance our offerings to drive sustainable development and the sustainable benefits of working with a global leader that provides solutions to make our customers more successful."

    About Solar Turbines:
    Solar Turbines Incorporated, headquartered in San Diego, California, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Caterpillar Inc. Solar manufactures the world's most widely used family of mid-sized industrial gas turbines. More than 12,000 Solar units are operating in 93 countries around the world. Primary applications include electric power generation, oil and natural gas production and gas transmission.

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    About Caterpillar
    For more than 80 years, Caterpillar Inc. has been making progress possible and driving positive and sustainable change on every continent. With 2007 sales and revenues of $44.958 billion, Caterpillar is the world's leading manufacturer of construction and mining equipment, diesel and natural gas engines and industrial gas turbines. The company also is a leading services provider through Caterpillar Financial Services, Caterpillar Remanufacturing Services, Caterpillar Logistics Services and Progress Rail Services. More information is available at: http://www.cat.com ]]>