A strong agriculture basis is critical to Agrarian societies seeking to develop strong economies. Burundi is a central African country of over 8 million people that has been devastated by AIDS. They are land-locked and resource poor. Years of ethnic wars have further suppressed development.
Oct. 11, 2007
Borlaug Institute To Help Build Burundi’s Agriculture
Writer: Paul Schattenberg, 210-467-6575,paschattenberg@ag.tamu.edu
Contact: Linda Cleboski, 979-845-0706,lcleboski@ag.tamu.edu
COLLEGE STATION – The Norman E. Borlaug Institute for International Agriculture at Texas A&M University, as a member of a special consortium, has been awarded a program to expand agricultural capacity and opportunity in Burundi.
Development Alternatives Inc. leads the consortium that includes universities, private firms, agricultural industry groups and non-governmental organizations, said Linda Cleboski, program development coordinator at the Borlaug Institute.
"As part of the Burundi Agribusiness Project, the institute will provide short-term technical assistance, investigate and assess opportunities for agricultural enhancement and help design program activities," Cleboski said.
"The Borlaug Institute will take the lessons and successes from seven years of helping...(complete article here).
The Borlaug Institute is one of the legacies of Norman Borlaug, Father of the Green Revolution. I have posted on him previously.
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Plant Genetic Diversity
Genetic variety is critical to the future of not only food supplies, but also to medicine and other plant derived products. It may also become critical to energy.
Preserving Genetic Variety of Valuable Specialty Crops
By Laura McGinnis
October 10, 2007
What’s a “specialty crop”? It can be any of hundreds of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, nursery plants and other crops that add variety to the diet and beauty to the garden.
To protect all U.S. crops—and provide material for developing new and better ones—the Agricultural Research Service's (ARS) National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) maintains genetic material, or germplasm, at more than 20 genebanks around the country. Many NPGS locations conserve germplasm of specialty crops.
In the Plant Genetic Resources Unit at Geneva, N.Y., ARS scientists identified previously...(complete article here).
Preserving Genetic Variety of Valuable Specialty Crops
By Laura McGinnis
October 10, 2007
What’s a “specialty crop”? It can be any of hundreds of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, nursery plants and other crops that add variety to the diet and beauty to the garden.
To protect all U.S. crops—and provide material for developing new and better ones—the Agricultural Research Service's (ARS) National Plant Germplasm System (NPGS) maintains genetic material, or germplasm, at more than 20 genebanks around the country. Many NPGS locations conserve germplasm of specialty crops.
In the Plant Genetic Resources Unit at Geneva, N.Y., ARS scientists identified previously...(complete article here).
The Future of energy and the Environment Lecture Series
The Futures Studies program at the University of Houston is offering a closer look at the energy issue with its lecture series "The Future of Energy and the Environment." From the viability of energy alternatives to the reality of Peak Oil, how we power our lives defines our world. Understanding the changes in our energy present helps us be prepared for our energy future; environmentally, economically, politically, technologically and personally.
This Tuesday, October 16th, the futurist Gary Golden and Daniel Lerch from the Post Carbon Institute will be speaking on: “Hydrogen and the Dawn of Electron Energy” and “The Post Carbon City”. Please feel free to forward this information to anyone you think would be interested in attending.
COST: FREE
DATES: Every Tuesday through November 13th
TIME: 6pm to 7pm Central
WHERE:
Physical Attendees: Please come to room 101 of the Cameron Building at the corner of Wheeler and Cullen on the University of Houston campus Houston, TX 77006.
Virtual Attendees: There are two ways to access the lecture, online and by phone. If you attend online you will be able to view the slide presentation. There is no video.
Phone Instructions: To access via phone, call 646-367-1174 and enter user ID 75603105
Online Instructions: Please go to: http://uhlive.horizonwimba.com/launcher.cgi?room=_uh_s_113376351_665128 and choose "participant login." The only login information you will be asked for is a user name of your own choosing.
Depending on your system, you may be asked to run a set up wizard to ensure you're properly configured to hear the audio and see the slide presentation. You can run this wizard at any time before the lecture, as some people do run into problems, so we recommend running the wizard in advance of the lecture. If you do have challenges, please contact the support line in the following ways and, if asked, please tell your support technician that you are attending: '6 TECH 6397 - Future of Energy and the Environment' at the University of Houston.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT: If you are in the States and like to do these things by phone, call the support line at: 866-350-4978If you are overseas or just like doing things by chat, you can log-on to:http://www.wimba.com/technicalsupport/
SCHEDULE:
Oct 16 - Hydrogen and the Dawn of Electron energy with Will Thurmond with Futurist and President of Emerging Markets and Futurist Gary Golden
Oct 23: The Economics and Politics of Energy with Victor Flatt, A.L. O?Quinn Environmental Chair Environmental Law Center University of Houston
Oct 30: Energy Emissions and Greenhouse Gases with Jim Lester, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Houston Advanced Research Center
Nov 6: Climate Change and Global, Warming with Barry Lefer, Asst Professor Geosciences University of Houston
Nov 13: Slowing the Growth and Mitigating the Effects of Greenhouse Gases and Climate Change, with Brian Yeoman Clinton Climate Initiative
This Tuesday, October 16th, the futurist Gary Golden and Daniel Lerch from the Post Carbon Institute will be speaking on: “Hydrogen and the Dawn of Electron Energy” and “The Post Carbon City”. Please feel free to forward this information to anyone you think would be interested in attending.
COST: FREE
DATES: Every Tuesday through November 13th
TIME: 6pm to 7pm Central
WHERE:
Physical Attendees: Please come to room 101 of the Cameron Building at the corner of Wheeler and Cullen on the University of Houston campus Houston, TX 77006.
Virtual Attendees: There are two ways to access the lecture, online and by phone. If you attend online you will be able to view the slide presentation. There is no video.
Phone Instructions: To access via phone, call 646-367-1174 and enter user ID 75603105
Online Instructions: Please go to: http://uhlive.horizonwimba.com/launcher.cgi?room=_uh_s_113376351_665128 and choose "participant login." The only login information you will be asked for is a user name of your own choosing.
Depending on your system, you may be asked to run a set up wizard to ensure you're properly configured to hear the audio and see the slide presentation. You can run this wizard at any time before the lecture, as some people do run into problems, so we recommend running the wizard in advance of the lecture. If you do have challenges, please contact the support line in the following ways and, if asked, please tell your support technician that you are attending: '6 TECH 6397 - Future of Energy and the Environment' at the University of Houston.
TECHNICAL SUPPORT: If you are in the States and like to do these things by phone, call the support line at: 866-350-4978If you are overseas or just like doing things by chat, you can log-on to:http://www.wimba.com/technicalsupport/
SCHEDULE:
Oct 16 - Hydrogen and the Dawn of Electron energy with Will Thurmond with Futurist and President of Emerging Markets and Futurist Gary Golden
Oct 23: The Economics and Politics of Energy with Victor Flatt, A.L. O?Quinn Environmental Chair Environmental Law Center University of Houston
Oct 30: Energy Emissions and Greenhouse Gases with Jim Lester, Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Houston Advanced Research Center
Nov 6: Climate Change and Global, Warming with Barry Lefer, Asst Professor Geosciences University of Houston
Nov 13: Slowing the Growth and Mitigating the Effects of Greenhouse Gases and Climate Change, with Brian Yeoman Clinton Climate Initiative
India's Bio Fuel Hope?
Jatropha as a bio fuel source -- from Nature.
Published online 10 October 2007
Nature 449, 652-655 (2007)
doi:10.1038/449652a
Biofuel: The little shrub that could - maybe
India, like many countries, has high hopes for jatropha as a biofuel source, but little is known about how to make it a successful crop. Daemon Fairless digs for the roots of a new enthusiasm.
By: Daemon Fairless
With a top speed of about 110 kilometres an hour, India's Shatabdi Express is not much to brag about by the standards of a French TGV or a Japanese Shinkansen train. Nonetheless, as the stock for one of the country's fastest and most luxurious passenger lines, the Shatabdi trains have a certain prestige. So when, on New Year's Eve 2002, the Shatabdi train from New Delhi to Amritsar was powered in part with biodiesel for the first time, it was a clear statement of the government's desire to wean India off imported petroleum.
Diesel is India's main liquid fuel: the country burns roughly 44 million tonnes, or 320 million barrels, of the stuff a year, as opposed to about 94 million barrels of gasoline. The trains account for a significant part of that. Kunj Mittal, who heads the government-operated rail service's engineering and traction division, says its fleet of 4,000 engines currently burns about 1.7 million tonnes a year, and that he wants to replace at least 10% of that with biodiesel at some unspecified point in the future. But he would need 200 million litres of biodiesel a year. Which is a problem. “At this stage,” says Mittal, “there is no mass production of biodiesel.”
Like many others around India, the rail service is looking to an unprepossessing, poisonous scrub weed to try to do something about that. It has planted a million Jatropha curcas seedlings on unused land along its tracks and elsewhere. It's just...(complete article here).
I've never heard of jatropha before. Moving wild plant species around the planet and planting them on a large scale seems a little risky to me.
Published online 10 October 2007
Nature 449, 652-655 (2007)
doi:10.1038/449652a
Biofuel: The little shrub that could - maybe
India, like many countries, has high hopes for jatropha as a biofuel source, but little is known about how to make it a successful crop. Daemon Fairless digs for the roots of a new enthusiasm.
By: Daemon Fairless
With a top speed of about 110 kilometres an hour, India's Shatabdi Express is not much to brag about by the standards of a French TGV or a Japanese Shinkansen train. Nonetheless, as the stock for one of the country's fastest and most luxurious passenger lines, the Shatabdi trains have a certain prestige. So when, on New Year's Eve 2002, the Shatabdi train from New Delhi to Amritsar was powered in part with biodiesel for the first time, it was a clear statement of the government's desire to wean India off imported petroleum.
Diesel is India's main liquid fuel: the country burns roughly 44 million tonnes, or 320 million barrels, of the stuff a year, as opposed to about 94 million barrels of gasoline. The trains account for a significant part of that. Kunj Mittal, who heads the government-operated rail service's engineering and traction division, says its fleet of 4,000 engines currently burns about 1.7 million tonnes a year, and that he wants to replace at least 10% of that with biodiesel at some unspecified point in the future. But he would need 200 million litres of biodiesel a year. Which is a problem. “At this stage,” says Mittal, “there is no mass production of biodiesel.”
Like many others around India, the rail service is looking to an unprepossessing, poisonous scrub weed to try to do something about that. It has planted a million Jatropha curcas seedlings on unused land along its tracks and elsewhere. It's just...(complete article here).
I've never heard of jatropha before. Moving wild plant species around the planet and planting them on a large scale seems a little risky to me.
Brazilian Elephant Grass
Looking for love -- I mean energy -- in all the wrong places...
ENERGY-BRAZIL: Elephant Grass for Biomass
By Mario Osava
RIO DE JANEIRO, Oct 10 (IPS) - Sugarcane is gradually being edged out of pole position for biofuel efficiency, as studies by the Agrobiology Centre at the state Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) are finding that elephant grass has even greater potential.
Its dry biomass, burned in ovens, can generate 25 times as much energy as the amount of fossil fuel used to produce it, while sugarcane converted into ethanol only produces nine times as much.
But these two energy balance leaders face different challenges and must travel down different paths before they can compete, for instance, as fuels for electricity generation.
Elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) has only recently captured the interest...(complete article here).
All bio fuels ultimately run into the same problems. Fuel vs. food, water, land, etc. We need to be exploring new energy technologies.
ENERGY-BRAZIL: Elephant Grass for Biomass
By Mario Osava
RIO DE JANEIRO, Oct 10 (IPS) - Sugarcane is gradually being edged out of pole position for biofuel efficiency, as studies by the Agrobiology Centre at the state Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) are finding that elephant grass has even greater potential.
Its dry biomass, burned in ovens, can generate 25 times as much energy as the amount of fossil fuel used to produce it, while sugarcane converted into ethanol only produces nine times as much.
But these two energy balance leaders face different challenges and must travel down different paths before they can compete, for instance, as fuels for electricity generation.
Elephant grass (Pennisetum purpureum) has only recently captured the interest...(complete article here).
All bio fuels ultimately run into the same problems. Fuel vs. food, water, land, etc. We need to be exploring new energy technologies.
China Concerns on Bio Fuels
Eyes are opening in China to the cost of bio fuels.
10/10/2007 11:06
CHINA
World grain supply not enough to produce bio fuels
The use of cereals and palm oil in producing bio fuels is forcing a price hike on basic foods. Non edible plants now being tested. Meanwhile Beijing sets out plans for renewable energy sources, even if in the short term more expensive than coal.
Beijing (AsiaNews/Agencies) – China wants to double its use of renewable energy by 2020, such as hydro energy, wind power and solar energy as well as biofuels by increasing their extraction from cereals and vegetable oils. But the high costs are presenting obstacles.
After an initial enthusiasm the world has become aware that it is not capable of producing sufficient grain to feed its population and produce biofuels. The boom in biofuels in recent years has led to sharp rice in world grain prices, with widespread grave social repercussions. David Jackson, of Lmc International Ltd London, estimates that by 2015 a further 100 million hectares of crop production (half the size of Indonesia) will be needed to meet just 5% of vehicle consumption. But to obtain this, entire forests would be decimated.
Sugar cane produces more ethanol, but it requires a lot of water in...(complete story here).
Some of the same issues that China faces are relevant to other countries. Bio fuels is only a small part of the answer -- and probably a temporary bridge to new technology at best. We need to be looking at radically new technologies for future energy needs.
10/10/2007 11:06
CHINA
World grain supply not enough to produce bio fuels
The use of cereals and palm oil in producing bio fuels is forcing a price hike on basic foods. Non edible plants now being tested. Meanwhile Beijing sets out plans for renewable energy sources, even if in the short term more expensive than coal.
Beijing (AsiaNews/Agencies) – China wants to double its use of renewable energy by 2020, such as hydro energy, wind power and solar energy as well as biofuels by increasing their extraction from cereals and vegetable oils. But the high costs are presenting obstacles.
After an initial enthusiasm the world has become aware that it is not capable of producing sufficient grain to feed its population and produce biofuels. The boom in biofuels in recent years has led to sharp rice in world grain prices, with widespread grave social repercussions. David Jackson, of Lmc International Ltd London, estimates that by 2015 a further 100 million hectares of crop production (half the size of Indonesia) will be needed to meet just 5% of vehicle consumption. But to obtain this, entire forests would be decimated.
Sugar cane produces more ethanol, but it requires a lot of water in...(complete story here).
Some of the same issues that China faces are relevant to other countries. Bio fuels is only a small part of the answer -- and probably a temporary bridge to new technology at best. We need to be looking at radically new technologies for future energy needs.
Hydrogen Gardens?
Just about everyone who's been through High School Chemistry knows that hydrogen packs a lot of energy. One of the limitations to hydrogen as a fuel source is the cost of production. The article below is about an encouraging development that could significantly lower the cost of hydrogen production so that it is an economical fuel. About one Kilogram of hydrogen packs the same energy as a gallon of gasoline. It burns extremely cleanly.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Hydrogen from Algae
Genetically modified algae could be efficient producers of hydrogen and biofuels.
By Prachi Patel-Predd
Algae are a promising source of biofuels: besides being easy to grow and handle, some varieties are rich in oil similar to that produced by soybeans. Algae also produce another fuel: hydrogen. They make a small amount of hydrogen naturally during photosynthesis, but Anastasios Melis, a plant- and microbial-biology professor at the University of California, Berkeley, believes that genetically engineered versions of the tiny green organisms have a good shot at being a viable source for hydrogen.
Melis has created mutant algae that make better use of sunlight than their natural cousins do. This could increase the hydrogen that the algae produce by a factor of three. It would also boost the algae's production of oil for biofuels.
The new finding will be important in maximizing...(complete article here).
The article indicates the researchers are about 5 years away from having a commercially applicable process, but it is definitely promising.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
Hydrogen from Algae
Genetically modified algae could be efficient producers of hydrogen and biofuels.
By Prachi Patel-Predd
Algae are a promising source of biofuels: besides being easy to grow and handle, some varieties are rich in oil similar to that produced by soybeans. Algae also produce another fuel: hydrogen. They make a small amount of hydrogen naturally during photosynthesis, but Anastasios Melis, a plant- and microbial-biology professor at the University of California, Berkeley, believes that genetically engineered versions of the tiny green organisms have a good shot at being a viable source for hydrogen.
Melis has created mutant algae that make better use of sunlight than their natural cousins do. This could increase the hydrogen that the algae produce by a factor of three. It would also boost the algae's production of oil for biofuels.
The new finding will be important in maximizing...(complete article here).
The article indicates the researchers are about 5 years away from having a commercially applicable process, but it is definitely promising.
Tuesday, October 9, 2007
DNA Testing in Cattle
One of the newest technologies to be applied to livestock is DNA testing. Although still in its infancy, DNA testing shows promise of significant economic benefit to purebred and commercial cattle raisers and to cattle feeders.
Much excitement was generated in the 1990’s with the development of technologies to identify specific genetic markers from DNA samples. The rush to capitalize on the technology was a result of the promise of significant economic benefit to producers. It was anticipated that within a short period of time, livestock breeders would be able to select for specific genetic characteristics that would result in a uniform product with the highest possible value. To many, it appears that the technology has fizzled.
While the “splash” hasn’t been what was projected, the scientists have quietly and steadily been working to identify genetic markers for characteristics that are important to the production process. To date in cattle, markers have been identified for tenderness, fat thickness, yield grade, hot carcass weight, quality grade, marbling, and horned/polled. It also is possible to determine parentage.
The homemaker going to the grocery store to purchase meat doesn’t need to understand the effects this technology will have on her selection. She only wants to know that the product she chooses will be of the highest quality. That quality is determined by many of these genetic markers that are now identifiable.
Pure Bred cattle operations have selected for specific characteristics for many generations. Such selection has resulted in the evolution of cattle types from the short-legged, boxy type of the 1950’s to the tall, lean, higher yielding types we see today. One of the difficulties in making that transition though, is the time required for selecting, breeding, raising, and finally evaluating the resulting progeny for the desired characteristics. DNA testing technologies can significantly reduce that timeframe by allowing the breeder to identify the desirable and undesirable traits of an animal at a much earlier age.
Commercial cattle producers face a different set of problems. They often only know half of the information needed to make good decisions on selecting for specific characteristics to improve their calf crop. Typically, they know the mother of the calf, but because of range conditions, they often don’t know the calf’s sire. They don’t know which bulls are producing the greatest number of calves, and they don’t know which bulls are producing the calves with the characteristics that they are seeking to enhance. DNA testing can determine the parentage of the calf. This allows the rancher to eliminate those animals that are not producing and to retain breeding stock from the bulls producing the desired traits.
When you look at the value of genetic testing from the feedlot’s perspective, you are limited to working with the calf. The value of cattle marketed is often based on the uniformity of the pen of animals, the performance characteristics – such as feed efficiency – and if marketed on a value-based grid, the quality potential of the cattle. If such characteristics are known at the beginning of the feeding period, rations can be adjusted to achieve the greatest value potential of the pen of cattle based on their anticipated performance and quality grade characteristics. Feeding cattle that will grade choice at fewer days on feed results in a higher potential for profitable performance. On the other hand, some sets of cattle may have high genetic potential for tenderness and be a better fit for a branded product that focuses on lean but tender cuts of meat.
The potential of genetic testing in cattle is still in its infancy. However, that potential is enormous. Ultimately, the homemaker will determine the success of the technology. When the shopper can go to the meat case in the local grocery store and select a cut of beef for supper without worrying about how tender it will be, the industry will have scored a great success. Consistent quality products are what we are striving to achieve.
Much excitement was generated in the 1990’s with the development of technologies to identify specific genetic markers from DNA samples. The rush to capitalize on the technology was a result of the promise of significant economic benefit to producers. It was anticipated that within a short period of time, livestock breeders would be able to select for specific genetic characteristics that would result in a uniform product with the highest possible value. To many, it appears that the technology has fizzled.
While the “splash” hasn’t been what was projected, the scientists have quietly and steadily been working to identify genetic markers for characteristics that are important to the production process. To date in cattle, markers have been identified for tenderness, fat thickness, yield grade, hot carcass weight, quality grade, marbling, and horned/polled. It also is possible to determine parentage.
The homemaker going to the grocery store to purchase meat doesn’t need to understand the effects this technology will have on her selection. She only wants to know that the product she chooses will be of the highest quality. That quality is determined by many of these genetic markers that are now identifiable.
Pure Bred cattle operations have selected for specific characteristics for many generations. Such selection has resulted in the evolution of cattle types from the short-legged, boxy type of the 1950’s to the tall, lean, higher yielding types we see today. One of the difficulties in making that transition though, is the time required for selecting, breeding, raising, and finally evaluating the resulting progeny for the desired characteristics. DNA testing technologies can significantly reduce that timeframe by allowing the breeder to identify the desirable and undesirable traits of an animal at a much earlier age.
Commercial cattle producers face a different set of problems. They often only know half of the information needed to make good decisions on selecting for specific characteristics to improve their calf crop. Typically, they know the mother of the calf, but because of range conditions, they often don’t know the calf’s sire. They don’t know which bulls are producing the greatest number of calves, and they don’t know which bulls are producing the calves with the characteristics that they are seeking to enhance. DNA testing can determine the parentage of the calf. This allows the rancher to eliminate those animals that are not producing and to retain breeding stock from the bulls producing the desired traits.
When you look at the value of genetic testing from the feedlot’s perspective, you are limited to working with the calf. The value of cattle marketed is often based on the uniformity of the pen of animals, the performance characteristics – such as feed efficiency – and if marketed on a value-based grid, the quality potential of the cattle. If such characteristics are known at the beginning of the feeding period, rations can be adjusted to achieve the greatest value potential of the pen of cattle based on their anticipated performance and quality grade characteristics. Feeding cattle that will grade choice at fewer days on feed results in a higher potential for profitable performance. On the other hand, some sets of cattle may have high genetic potential for tenderness and be a better fit for a branded product that focuses on lean but tender cuts of meat.
The potential of genetic testing in cattle is still in its infancy. However, that potential is enormous. Ultimately, the homemaker will determine the success of the technology. When the shopper can go to the meat case in the local grocery store and select a cut of beef for supper without worrying about how tender it will be, the industry will have scored a great success. Consistent quality products are what we are striving to achieve.
Carbon Sequestration Projects
One solution to releasing carbon dioxide into the air through burning -- such as coal-fired electric plants -- is to capture that CO2 and sequester it in some fashion. I'm not sold on the idea. I guess I'm an idealist and am convinced there's got to be something better than injecting it into salt domes. Our government apparently likes to stick our waste into salt domes.
October 9, 2007
DOE Awards First Three Large-Scale Carbon Sequestration Projects
U.S. Projects Total $318 Million and Further President Bush’s Initiatives to Advance Clean Energy Technologies to Confront Climate Change
WASHINGTON, DC — In a major step forward for demonstrating the promise of clean energy technology, U.S Deputy Secretary of Energy Clay Sell today announced that the Department of Energy (DOE) awarded the first three large-scale carbon sequestration projects in the United States and the largest single set in the world to date. The three projects - Plains Carbon Dioxide Reduction Partnership; Southeast Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership; and Southwest Regional Partnership for Carbon Sequestration - will conduct large volume tests for the storage of one million or more tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) in deep saline reservoirs. DOE plans to invest $197 million over ten years, subject to annual appropriations from Congress, for the projects, whose estimated value including partnership cost share is $318 million. These projects are the first of several sequestration demonstration projects planned through DOE’s Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnerships.
The formations to be tested during this third phase of the regional partnerships program are recognized as the most promising of the geologic basins in the United States. Collectively, these formations have the potential to store more than...(complete article here).
What will be the long-term impact of artificial CO2 sequestration? Hopefully these studies will give us a clue at least. In the meantime, I think we need to continue looking for better ways to handle it.
October 9, 2007
DOE Awards First Three Large-Scale Carbon Sequestration Projects
U.S. Projects Total $318 Million and Further President Bush’s Initiatives to Advance Clean Energy Technologies to Confront Climate Change
WASHINGTON, DC — In a major step forward for demonstrating the promise of clean energy technology, U.S Deputy Secretary of Energy Clay Sell today announced that the Department of Energy (DOE) awarded the first three large-scale carbon sequestration projects in the United States and the largest single set in the world to date. The three projects - Plains Carbon Dioxide Reduction Partnership; Southeast Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnership; and Southwest Regional Partnership for Carbon Sequestration - will conduct large volume tests for the storage of one million or more tons of carbon dioxide (CO2) in deep saline reservoirs. DOE plans to invest $197 million over ten years, subject to annual appropriations from Congress, for the projects, whose estimated value including partnership cost share is $318 million. These projects are the first of several sequestration demonstration projects planned through DOE’s Regional Carbon Sequestration Partnerships.
The formations to be tested during this third phase of the regional partnerships program are recognized as the most promising of the geologic basins in the United States. Collectively, these formations have the potential to store more than...(complete article here).
What will be the long-term impact of artificial CO2 sequestration? Hopefully these studies will give us a clue at least. In the meantime, I think we need to continue looking for better ways to handle it.
Pollution Settlement
No question that coal-fired power plants with outdated technology are polluters.
U.S. ANNOUNCES LARGEST SINGLE ENVIRONMENTAL SETTLEMENT IN HISTORY
Historic pollutant reductions will save $32 billion in health costs annually
Release date: 10/09/2007
Contact Information: Roxanne Smith, 202-564-4355 / smith.roxanne@epa.gov
(Washington, D.C. – Oct. 9, 2007) American Electric Power has agreed to cut 813,000 tons of air pollutants annually at an estimated cost of more than $4.6 billion, pay a $15 million penalty, and spend $60 million on projects to mitigate the adverse effects of its past excess emissions.
The record settlement was announced today by the Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency.
This is the single largest environmental enforcement settlement in history by several measures. For example...(complete article here).
Note that the consumers who purchase electricity from AEP will be picking up the $4.675 billion tab.
U.S. ANNOUNCES LARGEST SINGLE ENVIRONMENTAL SETTLEMENT IN HISTORY
Historic pollutant reductions will save $32 billion in health costs annually
Release date: 10/09/2007
Contact Information: Roxanne Smith, 202-564-4355 / smith.roxanne@epa.gov
(Washington, D.C. – Oct. 9, 2007) American Electric Power has agreed to cut 813,000 tons of air pollutants annually at an estimated cost of more than $4.6 billion, pay a $15 million penalty, and spend $60 million on projects to mitigate the adverse effects of its past excess emissions.
The record settlement was announced today by the Department of Justice and the Environmental Protection Agency.
This is the single largest environmental enforcement settlement in history by several measures. For example...(complete article here).
Note that the consumers who purchase electricity from AEP will be picking up the $4.675 billion tab.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Salt Marsh or Wheat?
Growing populations, concern over feeding the world, and Britain decides it would prefer swamps.
Farmland yields to major wetland
By Jeremy Cooke
Rural affairs correspondent, BBC News
Looking at Wallasea Island, it's hard to imagine that this flat, featureless landscape is about to become one of Britain's most important wildlife sanctuaries.
But 500 years ago - before this corner of coastal Essex was drained to make way for crop production - this was salt marsh. It was a thriving natural environment teeming with life.
Now, in its most ambitious project in this country, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is about to spend £12m recreating the salt marsh, turning the clock back by hundreds of years.
The plan is simple: the ancient...(complete article here).
Farmland yields to major wetland
By Jeremy Cooke
Rural affairs correspondent, BBC News
Looking at Wallasea Island, it's hard to imagine that this flat, featureless landscape is about to become one of Britain's most important wildlife sanctuaries.
But 500 years ago - before this corner of coastal Essex was drained to make way for crop production - this was salt marsh. It was a thriving natural environment teeming with life.
Now, in its most ambitious project in this country, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) is about to spend £12m recreating the salt marsh, turning the clock back by hundreds of years.
The plan is simple: the ancient...(complete article here).
Australian Wind Farm Plans
It's windy in Australia just like Texas. I suspect the Outback is a good place for solar farms as well.
Australia in giant wind farm plan
By Phil Mercer
BBC News, Sydney
The project would involve installing about 500 turbines near the outback town of Broken Hill in New South Wales.
The Australian government wants renewable sources to generate 15% of the country's energy needs by 2020.
The giant wind farm could generate enough electricity for 400,000 homes and put quite a dent in Australia's greenhouse gas emissions.
Research has shown...(complete article here).
Australia in giant wind farm plan
By Phil Mercer
BBC News, Sydney
The project would involve installing about 500 turbines near the outback town of Broken Hill in New South Wales.
The Australian government wants renewable sources to generate 15% of the country's energy needs by 2020.
The giant wind farm could generate enough electricity for 400,000 homes and put quite a dent in Australia's greenhouse gas emissions.
Research has shown...(complete article here).
Sunday, October 7, 2007
English Winter Fair Cancellation
This from BBC News:
Show cancelled over disease fears
An agricultural show in Stafford has been cancelled over concerns about foot-and-mouth disease and bluetongue.
The English Winter Fair, formerly the National Primestock Show, was going to be held on the weekend of 17 November.
Organisers have said they could not have done anything that may have put exhibitors at risk.
They said they would not have wanted exhibitors, particularly those with pedigree cattle, stranded at the show if the current situation had changed.
This cancellation gives a new slant to the disease fears facing the livestock sector. Would the National Western, or the Houston Livestock Show cancel for similar events in this country? Interesting.
Show cancelled over disease fears
An agricultural show in Stafford has been cancelled over concerns about foot-and-mouth disease and bluetongue.
The English Winter Fair, formerly the National Primestock Show, was going to be held on the weekend of 17 November.
Organisers have said they could not have done anything that may have put exhibitors at risk.
They said they would not have wanted exhibitors, particularly those with pedigree cattle, stranded at the show if the current situation had changed.
This cancellation gives a new slant to the disease fears facing the livestock sector. Would the National Western, or the Houston Livestock Show cancel for similar events in this country? Interesting.
Saturday, October 6, 2007
Caution: Spinning Blades Ahead
There will always be naysayers...
Bird deaths stir oversight for U.S. wind power
Fri Oct 5, 2007 5:41pm BST
By Leonard Anderson
SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - The growing U.S. wind power industry is drawing increased scrutiny from states and the federal government over the problem of spinning wind turbines killing birds.
The California Energy Commission last week adopted voluntary guidelines to reduce wind energy effects on wildlife, and Washington state, Montana and Texas among other states are reviewing measures.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, part of the Department of the Interior, also is developing voluntary procedures for wind projects, a spokeswoman said.
Wind power, which is expected to increase by 26 percent in power generating capacity this year, is mostly unregulated in the United States except by county boards, city councils and local planning commissions.
Wind energy accounts for less than 1 percent of the nation's electricity supply -- enough power to serve 3 million households.
A study issued by the National Academy of Sciences in May said...(complete article here).
I wonder how this compares to wildlife killed by petroleum products, by hydroelectric dams, by coal-fired electric plants, and all of the other sources of energy. The article does point out that more birds are killed by automobiles than by turbines. Maybe we should post signs around all wind turbine fields -- Caution: Spinning Blades Ahead!
Bird deaths stir oversight for U.S. wind power
Fri Oct 5, 2007 5:41pm BST
By Leonard Anderson
SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - The growing U.S. wind power industry is drawing increased scrutiny from states and the federal government over the problem of spinning wind turbines killing birds.
The California Energy Commission last week adopted voluntary guidelines to reduce wind energy effects on wildlife, and Washington state, Montana and Texas among other states are reviewing measures.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, part of the Department of the Interior, also is developing voluntary procedures for wind projects, a spokeswoman said.
Wind power, which is expected to increase by 26 percent in power generating capacity this year, is mostly unregulated in the United States except by county boards, city councils and local planning commissions.
Wind energy accounts for less than 1 percent of the nation's electricity supply -- enough power to serve 3 million households.
A study issued by the National Academy of Sciences in May said...(complete article here).
I wonder how this compares to wildlife killed by petroleum products, by hydroelectric dams, by coal-fired electric plants, and all of the other sources of energy. The article does point out that more birds are killed by automobiles than by turbines. Maybe we should post signs around all wind turbine fields -- Caution: Spinning Blades Ahead!
Friday, October 5, 2007
Texas Leading the Way Again
I like this idea. Texas will get school funding and clean power all in one deal.
Texas Awards First Competitive Offshore Wind Leases
October 03, 2007
The Texas General Land Office on October 2 awarded the first four competitively bid leases for offshore wind power in the United States. All the leases were awarded to Louisiana-based Wind Energy Systems Technology (W.E.S.T., LLC) and allow construction to begin immediately on meteorological testing towers on each of the four tracts.
The research and development stage will last approximately four years and the production term will be 30 years for each lease. Following the research phase, W.E.S.T., LLC plans to develop wind farms on each of the four tracts. If winds are favorable, the company plans to build wind farms that will produce a minimum of 250 to 300 megawatts per lease.
The four offshore tracts were offered for wind development as part of...(complete article here).
In these tracts, the windmills will blend right in with the oil platforms. I wonder if the fish will congregate around the base of the windmills the way they do around offshore oil platforms.
Texas Awards First Competitive Offshore Wind Leases
October 03, 2007
The Texas General Land Office on October 2 awarded the first four competitively bid leases for offshore wind power in the United States. All the leases were awarded to Louisiana-based Wind Energy Systems Technology (W.E.S.T., LLC) and allow construction to begin immediately on meteorological testing towers on each of the four tracts.
The research and development stage will last approximately four years and the production term will be 30 years for each lease. Following the research phase, W.E.S.T., LLC plans to develop wind farms on each of the four tracts. If winds are favorable, the company plans to build wind farms that will produce a minimum of 250 to 300 megawatts per lease.
The four offshore tracts were offered for wind development as part of...(complete article here).
In these tracts, the windmills will blend right in with the oil platforms. I wonder if the fish will congregate around the base of the windmills the way they do around offshore oil platforms.
Fall Forage Tips from Purdue
Fall forage tips from Purdue University:
Agronomist: Stunted pastures need growth spurt before grazing
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Many Indiana pastures could use a "Keep off the grass" sign.
Pastures that were battered by an April freeze, a hot, dry summer and potato leafhopper feeding might not be ready for livestock, said Keith Johnson, a Purdue University Extension forage specialist.
"In those areas where rain has fallen after it has been extremely dry, I would suggest producers...(complete article here).
Many factors influence the value of forage in late summer and early fall. These include drought, summer grazing pressure, insects, and freeze. This article addresses many of those issues and how to make the most of your forage.
Agronomist: Stunted pastures need growth spurt before grazing
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Many Indiana pastures could use a "Keep off the grass" sign.
Pastures that were battered by an April freeze, a hot, dry summer and potato leafhopper feeding might not be ready for livestock, said Keith Johnson, a Purdue University Extension forage specialist.
"In those areas where rain has fallen after it has been extremely dry, I would suggest producers...(complete article here).
Many factors influence the value of forage in late summer and early fall. These include drought, summer grazing pressure, insects, and freeze. This article addresses many of those issues and how to make the most of your forage.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Texas Transmission Capacity
Texas is leading the way in Wind Power Generation.
October 4, 2007
Texas Decision Could Double Wind Power Capacity in the U.S.
CREZ Plan could become national model.
Austin, Texas [RenewableEnergyAccess.com]
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) issued an Interim Final Order yesterday that could enable construction of up to 22,806 Megawatts (MW) of new wind power in Texas. A final order, transmission plan, and budget are still pending before the Commission but are expected to be finalized in early 2008...(complete article here).
Transmission capacity from production areas to population concentrations has been a limiting factor in alternate energy production. The Texas Plan is designed to ease that restriction.
October 4, 2007
Texas Decision Could Double Wind Power Capacity in the U.S.
CREZ Plan could become national model.
Austin, Texas [RenewableEnergyAccess.com]
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) issued an Interim Final Order yesterday that could enable construction of up to 22,806 Megawatts (MW) of new wind power in Texas. A final order, transmission plan, and budget are still pending before the Commission but are expected to be finalized in early 2008...(complete article here).
Transmission capacity from production areas to population concentrations has been a limiting factor in alternate energy production. The Texas Plan is designed to ease that restriction.
Economic Survey of Mexico
I have linked to the 2007 Economic Survey of Mexico published by the Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development (OECD).
Economic survey of Mexico 2007
Although the survey is not directly related to agriculture, it is important due to Mexico's status as a trading partner. The health of the Mexican economy affects immigration, exports, imports, truck traffic, competition, energy, and on and on. We need to pay attention to what is going on in our neighboring countries.
Economic survey of Mexico 2007
Although the survey is not directly related to agriculture, it is important due to Mexico's status as a trading partner. The health of the Mexican economy affects immigration, exports, imports, truck traffic, competition, energy, and on and on. We need to pay attention to what is going on in our neighboring countries.
Hydrogen Fuel Storage Technologies
One of the critical issues of utilizing hydrogen as a fuel is storage. There is a lot of energy in hydrogen. Thus, it is a dangerous substance. New technologies are being explored to make it safer to utilize.
Hydrogen Storage Model Speeds Development Of Alternative Fuel Vehicles
Science Daily — Researchers at the UCLA Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed a model that could help engineers and scientists speed up the development of hydrogen-fueled vehicles by identifying promising hydrogen-storage materials and predicting favored thermodynamic chemical reactions through which hydrogen can be reversibly stored and extracted.
Because of global environmental changes associated with man-made carbon dioxide emissions and the limited resources of fossil fuels, developing alternate and renewable energy sources is important for a sustainable future. Hydrogen is a potential source of clean energy for future use in passenger vehicles powered by cheap and energy-efficient fuel cells, but its widespread adoption has been hindered by the need to store it on-board at very high densities.
A promising solution to this problem involves...(complete article here).
Use of hydrogen as a fuel is an area that I don't know much about. However, I will attempt to post a few entries within the next week or so that explore hydrogen as an alternative fuel. With the new hybrids on the market, I think we will see increasing interest in this particular area.
Hydrogen Storage Model Speeds Development Of Alternative Fuel Vehicles
Science Daily — Researchers at the UCLA Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science have developed a model that could help engineers and scientists speed up the development of hydrogen-fueled vehicles by identifying promising hydrogen-storage materials and predicting favored thermodynamic chemical reactions through which hydrogen can be reversibly stored and extracted.
Because of global environmental changes associated with man-made carbon dioxide emissions and the limited resources of fossil fuels, developing alternate and renewable energy sources is important for a sustainable future. Hydrogen is a potential source of clean energy for future use in passenger vehicles powered by cheap and energy-efficient fuel cells, but its widespread adoption has been hindered by the need to store it on-board at very high densities.
A promising solution to this problem involves...(complete article here).
Use of hydrogen as a fuel is an area that I don't know much about. However, I will attempt to post a few entries within the next week or so that explore hydrogen as an alternative fuel. With the new hybrids on the market, I think we will see increasing interest in this particular area.
Refinery Capacity
From the Department of Energy's Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy website:
October 03, 2007
Texas Refinery to More than Double in Capacity
No new oil refineries have been built in the United States for more than 30 years, but that statistic hides the fact that existing refineries are constantly being expanded.
A case in point: in late September, Motiva Enterprises announced its plans to expand its refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, increasing its crude oil refining capacity from 275,000 barrels per day to 600,000 barrels per day. As the company puts it, the expansion is equivalent to building an entirely new refinery. Motiva expects the expanded facility to be in full production by 2010. See the Motiva press release.
One of the biggest price impact issues we saw during hurrican Katrina was loss of refinery capacity for the duration of the storm and clean-up. Any time a refinery is shut down for any period of time, it sends ripples through the energy markets. Our refinery capacity is aged and aging -- it is also running at or near capacity. New capacity is a good thing although the committment to build it is risky given the current drive to shift away from fossil fuels.
October 03, 2007
Texas Refinery to More than Double in Capacity
No new oil refineries have been built in the United States for more than 30 years, but that statistic hides the fact that existing refineries are constantly being expanded.
A case in point: in late September, Motiva Enterprises announced its plans to expand its refinery in Port Arthur, Texas, increasing its crude oil refining capacity from 275,000 barrels per day to 600,000 barrels per day. As the company puts it, the expansion is equivalent to building an entirely new refinery. Motiva expects the expanded facility to be in full production by 2010. See the Motiva press release.
One of the biggest price impact issues we saw during hurrican Katrina was loss of refinery capacity for the duration of the storm and clean-up. Any time a refinery is shut down for any period of time, it sends ripples through the energy markets. Our refinery capacity is aged and aging -- it is also running at or near capacity. New capacity is a good thing although the committment to build it is risky given the current drive to shift away from fossil fuels.
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