Updated: 4:00 EST, 2 December 2008
We’ve a few stories we’re tracking and some new events to update you on. More updates will be available as stories are produced and events announced throughout the day:
In the News…
Mining Jobs in Decline
As recession confirmations spread around the world and commodity markets decline, the mining industry, which saw so much significant growth in recent years, is beginning to forecast layoffs. The Associated Press reports that 10,000 layoffs are expected in South Africa. In particular, the platinum mining industry is suffering, for it feeds into automotive manufacturing markets. Until personal vehicles and new shipping trucks are needed, those platinum mines may remain on hold; while other metals operate at a diminshed capacity as well.
Review: Eco Expo Asia
Over at Environmental-Expert, a review of Messe Frankfurt’s Eco Expo Asia 2008 has been published. Messe Frankfurt is the organizer of the Techtextil conferences (in Germany and North America) and the recent Canadian Waste & Recycling Expo in Canada.
Mining and Emotion in Costa Rica
Jessica Barran’s piece at the University for Peace website is firmly against the mining of gold in Costa Rica’s northern Crusitas mine, but it may be worth reading for understanding the ways in which communities where resources lay do not see their presence as welcomed. The environmental concerns are real and should be heard–but so should decent science and technology. The right containment materials, facility design, operations and environmental remediation plan can be done responsible. Just as a failure in one country can be cited, so too can a great many successfully managed sites.
Lake Delton Returns
We return to the story of Lake Delton, Wisconsin today, where water is about to begin refilling the lake for which the town is named. It’s been empty for months. A June 2008 storm destroyed five homes and washed the lake down a channel and into the Wisconsin River. We reported on this village’s flood response need in early August when Propex Inc. gifted the village $100,000 worth of erosion control products to help with some key projects. Propex’s ArmorMax system was offered for use on steep slopes, having already proven itself in New Orleans’ infrastructure repair. Congratulations are due to the residents of Lake Delton on getting their community back up and so quickly.
In Control
Malaysia-based Star Online reports that Khazanah Nasional Bhd aims to become the largest shrimp producer in Malaysia by the end of 2009. The company’s Blue Archipelago Bhd has launched a plan to expand or develop the capacity of three shrimp aquaculture facilities, such as the previously underperforming Kerpan farm. They espouse a highly controlled production method. Geomembrane-lined aquaculture pits are used frequently in controlled developments and can help increase yields.
Border Dispute
Near San Diego, the nearly $50 million construction of another leg of border fencing between the United States and Mexico appears to be a culprit in some serious sediment runoff. Of note, locals point out, a valley area known as “Smuggler’s Gulch” is being filled in with soil cut for the project. The 150-ft-high berm will support access roads and a stretch of fencing, but in the meantime is simply releasing soil into the water. Construction is not the only problem, though, as the site officials point out. The area is also plagued by sudden, heavy rains and illegal dumping in channels.
On the Calendar…
Surface Water Management Manual Workshop, Tacoma
The City of Tacoma Surface Water Division will host some training opportunities to outline updates to the 2008 Surface Water Management Manual, which went into effect Sept. 22, 2008. Individuals who might need to obtain stormwater permits or design stormwater management facilities in compliance with the manual are encouraged to attend. Two workshops will be offered: the first on Thursday, 11 December 2008; and the second on Monday, 12 January 2009. The three-hour session is intended for design professionals, developers and other individuals who need to understand and implement the updated Surface Water Management Manual. Read more in the release.
GPEC 2009
25-27 February 2009
Preparations are well underway for the upcoming GPEC 2009 in Orlando, Florida. The event takes place 25-27 February 2009. Conference committee members are working hard to once again deliver an enlightening and thought provoking conference. This year’s conference theme is “Plastics: The Wonderful World of Sustainability and Recycling." A keynote lecture will be delivered by Dr. John Christy. GPEC 2009 is organized by the Plastics Environmental Division of the Society of Plastics Engineers (SPE). The event will include a Clean Technology Business Forum & Competition sponsored by Battelle.
Streambank Stabilization for Restoration and Flood Control Projects
4-6 March 2009
This continuing education program from ASCE offers 2.1 continuing education units (CEUs) to attendees. The course provides design guidance for streambank stabilization measures for both restoration and flood control projects. Traditional ‘hard’ structural-type techniques such as rock riprap, gabions, and articulated concrete blocks as well as redirective techniques including bendway weirs, rock vanes, and spur dikes are presented along with information on bioengineering solutions. In this course, you will learn the applicability and limitations of the various techniques, and recognize the importance of adequate toe protection. INSTRUCTORS: Chris Bahner, P.E., D.WRE, M.ASCE; Jeffrey Bradley, Ph.D., P.E.
, D.WRE, F.ASCE; Thomas Grindeland, P.E., D.WRE, M.ASCE; and Hans Hadley, P.E., P.G., CFM, M.ASCE.
8th National Symposium on Erosion Control
29 March – 2 April 2009
The International Erosion Control Association (IECA) Brazil Chapter will hold its 8th National Symposium on Erosion Control from 29 March – 2 April 2009. Basic information on the event is available in English on IECA’s website calendar. More detailed information is available only in Portuguese.
