Delaware Sierra News

A Sierra Club Newsletter about Environmental Matters Important to Delaware January/February

Delaware Sierra for Statewide Waste Erosion of Public’s Participation

Management Planning by Rich Anthony in Public Hearings? by Mike Casale
With the DE Solid Waste Authority's [DSWA] members the Chapter's Conservation It is an ongoing effort for the Sierra Club, and indeed
pending review by the DE General Committee is in the process of establishing a many other civic minded organizations in Delaware,
Assembly's Sunset Committee looming dur- Solid Waste sub-committee and the to encourage public participation in the governing
ing the 2004 legislative session, a recent Chapter's Executive Committee has formally process, and the determination of what is "good" for
application to expand the existing limits of adopted a Recycling Expansion and Landfill the public in general. It is not convenient many times
the Cherry Island Land Fill and the of subse- Reduction resolution elaborating specific to attend public hearings, especially in these times
quent release of a report, replete with rec- findings and recommendations. The follow- when we are all so busy trying to "do more with
ommendations, relating to the proposed ing is an informal restatement of the less". Even the simple act of voting in State and
expansion attention is once again being Resolution elaborating the Chapter's position Federal elections has become a feat accomplished
focused on New Castle Co.'s landfill prob- which was adopted by unanimous vote of by fewer and fewer idealistic individuals.
lems in particular, DE's land fill practices in the Executive Committee, DE Chapter,
general and potential alternatives for Sierra Club 11/03: The gradual erosion of civil liberties and rights is the
addressing future landfill demands. death knell of democracy. Fortunately, I don't think
As a result of concerns raised by Sierra Club For the full Resolutions see page 6
we are in danger, just yet. However, any time one
right disappears w should see a red flag and ask
Close Public scrutiny needed for Statewide Waste Plans why.
or should the fox help reorganize the hen house? Such questions are now being asked concerning the
opinion by Marlene Rayner revised interpretation of the Public Hearing process
of the Department of Natural Resources and
Although the DSWA was given the mission and authority by the state to do waste
Environmental Control (DNREC). DNREC recently
disposal right since 1990, it has not done the job well by almost any measurement. published a document entitled PUBLIC PAR-
The goofs include the massive incinerator failure in the 1990s (followed by banning TICIPATION IN DNREC PERMITTING HEARINGS.
of incineration in the state); resistance to any statewide curbside recycling efforts; In this document, they indicate "The purpose of
bad management of odors and gases from the landfill (meaning the great power DNREC Permitting Hearings is to gather information
in a public setting to help the Secretary determine
from trash possibilites were never attained); and finally the unimaginative squander-
whether a given application demonstrates compli-
ing of space in the landfill by not attacking the problem before the present 5 year ance … with relevant Department requirements."
time limit (at Cherry Island at the present rate of fill). By now with all these failures, This is an admirable mission statement for the
the heads of any company would have been long gone. process, although it seems that the public (you and
Instead, on January 5, 2004, at a joint meeting "we" (those who speak for us - me) has a new obstacle to our participation.
DNREC, RPAC) gave DSWA equal rights with DNREC and DSWA continued on page 4
The document goes on to define continued page 6

Table of Contents page

Sierra Waste Resolution 1
The Music Never Stopped De l a w a re C h a p t e r NON-PROFIT
100 West 10th St., Suite 1107 U.S. POSTAGE
DSWA Needs Scrutiny 1 Wilmington, DE 19801 PAID
WILMINGTON, DE
Public Hearing Rights 1
From the Editor 2 Thursday February 26th PERMIT NO. 740

Membership Forms 2 9:30pm - 1am

Sierra Boards Members 2 at Kelly's Logan House in
From the Chair 3
Conservation UpDate 3 Wilmington's Trolley Square area.
Appalachian Action Plan 4
Control Your Destiny 7 An evening of non-stop
Things to think About... 7
Sierra Outings/Socials 8
collaborative musical improvisation!!
Sierra Club Meetings 8
 Delaware Chapter and
Southern Delaware From the Editor
Group Leaders Marlene Rayne
Chapter Office: This first 2004 issue deals with the interrelated important topics of openess and secrecy in our con-
100 West 10th Street, Suite 1107 duct of public affairs. Interesting that both reports should involve the state agency designated to pro-
Wilmington, DE 19801 tect our natural resources, DNREC. Of course, no one likes to be questioned on their motives where
Debbie Heaton 302-425-4911
Hours: Mon-Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. secrecy or lack of openess comes into play in public affairs. However, if one thinks ”secret” or “no dis-
Chapter Executive Committee cussion”, then a little red flag should go up in your head suggesting impropriety. In our society where
Rich Anthony 645-1732 information, meeting minutes etc can be posted almost immediately on a website, there is no reason
Jean Bauer 698-1601 why any meeting should any longer be “secret” -especially when it has to do with public matters and
Dick Bewick 736-1670
David Keifer 678-2712 ultimately public trust and public monies -ours!
Rick McCorkle 730-1417
Matt Urban 475-9880 x17
Eric Vanim-Botting 610-213-9279 This year is an election year, we must all exercise that important right and obligation -voting! Because
Ron Zink 735-8996 we are still a democracy, we don’t fine or jail people for not voting. However, we do have an ethical
Steve Callanen (SDG rep) 539-0635 obligation in our busy lives to pay attention to the issues, make intelligent decisions, or give up all
rights eventually to those who would love that you do not care (“special interests” without your best
Chapter Appointed Officers
Conservation: Dick Bewick 736-1670 interests in mind). We have seen erosion in our democratic choices, governmental operations, and our
Litigation: Carl Solberg 492-1225 basic rights due to this lack of interest on our part. Each of our individual choices are additive and
Landuse: David Keifer 678-2712 together many small people can assert their collective power.
Anti-Pollution: Al Denio 455-0389
Outings: Phil Shuman 698-1998
Memb.:Eric Vanim-Botting 610-213-9279 The polls all suggest most americans care about their natural resources and quality of life for them-
Editor: Marlene Rayner 571-8097
selves and the generations to come. Somehow, we have we have abdicated responsibility collectively
Southern Delaware Group(SDG) to let someone else do that, so in the last election much less than 50% of the possible voting public
Carrie Bennett 732-3358
Steve Callanen 539-0635 elected many people, including a president. It’s our choice and our right to vote and demand openess
Sallie Callanen 539-0635 and accountability.
Terri Usuki 436-4042
Bill Zak 644-2293
SDG Appointed Officers
Conservation: Terri Usuki
Secretary: Carrie Bennett
Visit us on the web:
436-4042
732-3358 REGISTER AND VOTE IN 2004!!
Web Editor: Mike Casale
www.delaware.sierraclub.org
Join Sierra Club today
or give a gift membership
Preserve the Future
and
ot everyone can make a large gift to protect
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There are many gift options available. We can
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5639 or e-mail: planned.giving@sierraclub.org
City State Zip
The Delaware Sierra News is published five times a year by the Delaware Chapter of the Sierra Club. This
publication is written and produced entirely by volunteers. If you would like to help with its publication, Phone
please contact the editor (302-571-8097). The deadline for materials for the next issue (January, 2004) is
December 27, 2003. Publication January 15, 2004. Membership Categories INDIVIDUAL JOINT
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Editors: Marlene Rayner, Jeanie Bauer, Mike Casale All dues include subscription to Sierra ($7.50) and chapter publications
($1). Dues are not tax deductible.Mail to: Sierra Club, P.O. Box 52968,
This newsletter was printed on recycled, post-consumer paper with soy-based ink by the Dover Boulder, CO 80321-2968 rip No. F94QW58001
Post Company, Dover, DE

Delaware Chapter Sierra Club January/February 2004 2

Letter from the Chair Conservation UpDate
By Debbie Heaton, Conservation Director
Matt Urban, Chapter Chairperson
Concerned about the changes being proposed at the Cherry
As you ponder your New Years resolutions for 2004, let me Island Landfill or the liquefied natural gas transfer station being
suggest that you add one to your list -being involved with the proposed for the coast of the Delaware River opposite
Sierra Club! In looking back, it's clear that we as a nation have Claymont? Do you wonder about the air and water pollution and
an opportunity to do much better in 2004 than we did over the safety challenges these and other projects might create? If so,
past year. To give you a sense of what I mean, here are just a few join the conservation committee at our upcoming meeting
of the top environmental stories and trends of 2003, excerpted (February 18th -7:00 p.m.) or contact one of the many chapter
from a recent Sierra Club bulletin: members listed in the chapter phone list to learn how you can
In October, massive wildfires blazed across Southern help.
California. Interestingly, the Bush administration had spent
much of 2002 and 2003 promoting a fire plan that would have A group of people is beginning to form a New Castle County
done nothing to protect the affected communities from fire. committee to look at issues specific to the communities there.
That plan emphasized commercial logging in remote areas rather They had an initial meeting in November and hope to set-up a
than thinning projects around communities and homes, as forest schedule for the coming year. Land use problems, lack of recy-
service scientists recommend. In November, the President signed cling, expansion of Route 95 at Churchman's Marsh and the
into law a bill based largely on his flawed plan. expanding county council are just a few of the issues this group
This summer's big blackout was another wake up call. Many, hopes to look into. If you would like to get involved please con-
including the Sierra Club, had previously called on Congress to tact Valerie Johns at vblueheron@comcast.net or 302-239-
pass an Energy Bill that would invest in a 21st century energy 1410.
grid and improved efficiency. Instead, Congress, with strong sup-
port from the Bush administration, offered up a bill that gives Members of the conservation committee are preparing for a
billions of dollars in subsidies for oil, gas, coal, and nuclear January 10th workshop to prioritize conservation activities. The
industries; weakens clean water and air laws; and exempts MBTE results of this session will allow for a more focused use of funds
refineries from liability from toxic pollution. Fortunately, coura- and time as the year passes and new issues come to light. The
geous Senators stopped this disastrous bill, which is expected to newsletter will have gone to press right as the session is taking
resurface early in 2004. place, but if you would like to learn about what the priorities are
A tally found that 58 out of 100 actions taken by the Bush
administration to weaken environmental rules were announced and what happened at the meeting contact Conservation
on Fridays, the day before holidays, or even during holiday Chaiman Dick Bewick.
weekends. These included eliminating Clean Water Act protec-
tions on 20 million acres of wetlands (Friday, Jan. 10); removing The Assawoman Canal and North Shore Groin permit appeal
millions of acres of public land from consideration for wilderness hearings are scheduled for the coming weeks. The Chapter has
protection (Friday, April 11); and allowing America's dirtiest been working with the Mid-Atlantic Environmental Law Center to
power plants to avoid installing modern pollution technology prepare testimony in an effort to stop these projects. Legal
(Friday, August 22). In May, Governor Christie Todd Whitman work on Motiva and the changes they are seeking on the con-
resigned as head of the EPA. Her replacement, Utah Governor sent decree continues. The Chapter found out on December
Michael Leavitt, had a reputation for deal-making that benefited 16th that the judge in Texas is going to allow for Sierra Club to
corporate interests over public health or the environment. One intervene in the case. The Club has asked the Judge to hold a
of his first moves was to propose rule changes that would allow hearing on the matter. Mid-Atlantic Environmental Law Center is
three times more mercury pollution from power plants than the representing Sierra Club on this case as well. Stayed tuned for
current law allowed. The news was not all bad however, and updates as they become available.
some very positive things did take place. Toyota reported that its
gas-electric hybrid Prius sedan turned a profit in its first year. In early December Delaware lost one of its senior statesmen
Toyota even credited its record earnings in 2003 to the populari- and environmental advocates: Senator Bill Roth. Many of us
ty of the car, which Motor Trend named its 2004 Car of the were more aware of his recent achievements involving the Roth
Year. Meanwhile, Detroit automakers, with cover from the Bush IRA and his IRS work. Sierra Club worked with him over the
administration and Congress, continue to perpetuate the myth years to keep the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge free from oil
that this is a car that can't be built. drilling, but we forgot that this area was originally protected by
Last month, a federal courtroom halted Bush administra- his earlier efforts in the 1980's with the late Senator Tsongas.
tion's plans for snowmobiling in Yellowstone National Park. In They put together the "conservation act of the century" protect-
November, a federal court in Kentucky ruled that food giant ing 350 million acres of national forests, refuges, wildlife pre-
Tyson is responsible for pollution at factory farms, undercutting serves and parks in Alaska. Senator Roth was able to see the
Bush administration efforts to allow unlimited pollution from big picture and stayed true to his principles - working for years
massive animal facilities. And, both the DC Circuit and Appeals to keep the Arctic protected. We will miss him.
Courts rebuffed administration attempts to hide records of secret
meetings between the Bush/Cheney Energy Task Force and ener- The Senate did break for the holidays allowing us a short
gy executives. reprieve and catch up time on the energy bill. It looks like we
So as you can probably see, this is the year to take action - on will see it again January/February time frame. The chapter has
many levels, and we can use your help more than ever as we help been sending out alerts about impending votes. If you would like
lead our State and our Nation to a more environmentally sound to join this list and get the latest news please send an email to
future! -- -Matt debbie.heaton@sierraclub.org and ask to be placed on the
DEAL list.
Delaware Chapter Sierra Club January/February 2004 3
DSWA Close Scrutiny Needed from page 1
RPAC to assess the programs unincorporated areas in New Castle County (these areas pay
that might apply to Delaware for significantly more in NCC) which would keep costs down (trans-
mandatory statewide recycling (another consultant's report). I portation). The recycling facility is easy; the cost of existing
was publicly told this agreement was arrived at secretly among drop-off programs is $2.4M per year and the facility is $300,000
just 4 un-named (and suggested high up) particpants from those per year. However, the waste hauler territory organization for
organizations; work on the agreement was begun in June 2003 cost savings is a real problem for New Castle County, but not
-before the DSM consultant recycling report was publicly for Kent County and Sussex where franchise districts already
released. Considering the history of DSWA, the move may be exist. Waste Management (WMI) and BFI gained control of 80-
nothing more than survival or better yet, another delaying tactic, 90% of the waste business in NCC in the last 20 years and BFI
which is business as usual for DSWA. DSWA says it has now has most business in Kent County (Sussex I am unsure of at
"seen the light" for recycling due to turnout at the public meet- this moment). A few very small family owned trash collectors
ings. who collect from maybe only 1000 households remain; these
Meanwhile, hedging all their bets, this past 2 months has are the businesses I most feel for in any franchise districting
seen the DSWA, shamefully courting state legislators, especially process. There is also the new kid on the block, Independent
those on the sunset committee, responsible for their future Disposal Services, who are growing and control 10,000-20,000
(since DSWA will come up for sunsetting this year). Besides the households in NCC.
now held up proposals for expansion and repair brought up with Remember we already pay a personal high price for the piti-
limited time to actually do anything right, DSWA has publicly ful recycling we do have -we pay $1 per month for every house-
raised the incinerator issue once again by offering trips to legis- hold not including the extra $1.60 estimated for each car that
lators to see the incinerator operation in Reading PA. If their brings material to them, the other grants given for recycling
present Cherry Hill Landfill expansion proposal fails their locally (Delaware City etc), and the gasoline use and pollution
oblique suggestion here is a return to incineration. from all those many long waste hauler trips. If we organize col-
Meanwhile DNREC and RPAC have taken the positive recy- lections,DSM says recycling won't cost. If we don't organize, the
cling report by DSM to the public. At least 5 public meeting cost has been estimated to be maybe $2 extra per household.
have been held in various communities or the unincorporated
areas of New Castle County. Jim Short and his staff have done However, the over-riding issue is real lack of incentive in the
a remarkably good job bringing the word to the communities. present mission of the public-private DSWA to promote recy-
Having seen two of the reports from these meetings I'd say the cling and waste reduction; their money comes strictly from tip-
curbside recycling concept has had a positive reception by the ping fees (that which gets landfilled is weighed) plus anything
public with many wondering why we don't already have it! they get back from selling recycled materials. Every pound not
However, the real problems are not the people who would landfilled is a loss to them in revenue. No matter how you look
recycle willingly at the curb, but the very issues that have kept at it, the original set-up of the DSWA was self-defeating. This is
Delaware in the dark ages of waste management for so long - where the legislature is needed.
politics and money.
Thus, this year'sunsetting /review process for DSWA is
Even with the very real possibility of instituting curbside extremely important, and wisely, decisions for Cherry Island
recycling, Jim Short in a telephone interview says that adding have been stayed until those discussions take place. We must
residential recycling (only 50% of the real waste that goes into redesign DSWA to do the waste management job we want -not
the landfill) along with removing yard waste and grass clippings what DSWA wants. Our entire waste stream must be thoroughly
would only add 1 year for every 6 years of landfill fill(thus we examined and minimized from all sources. Cherry Island must
get 6 years at best left in that landfill). Restated reducing resi- be fixed and the people who live around the present landfill
dential waste by 30% means only a 15% reduction in what goes must not be made to suffer for DSWA's failures. Although "new
into the landfill. Of course, at least publicly I have heard no improved incineration" has been brought up again, incinerators
mention getting a handle on and minimization of the other waste are voracious consumers of waste. The process must be con-
streams added to the landfill: commercial/business, industrial, stant to be efficient (believe me we do not have enough); the
packaging, and municipal solid waste. Without expansion or technology remains dirty; and the company under question is in
incineration, we'll need another landfill. We need an education bankruptcy
campaign and not the full page ad (News Journal 1/5/04),
where DSWA touts how great they are. Ultimately we probably need a new landfill, statewide recycling
from all waste sources, and that discussion is beginning now.
However, politics is intervening in all these matters. For Either way our state and county legislators will not do anything
curbside recycling we have two issues: a needed expanded right without public oversite. It is even more important now -
recycling facility and some organization of waste hauling in our knowing all these 'secret talks' could still be going on!

Delaware Chapter Sierra Club January/February 2004 4

 Appalachian Region Conservation Committee C o n t r o l Yo u r D e s t i n y
2004 Action Plan By Lorri Fencer
As Sierra Club members, chances are good that we all share a com-
By Bob Morris, Chair, ARCC mon bond: the desire to protect our dwindling natural resources and to
minimize the effects of pollution in our environment. Along with sharing
At the end of August a phone conference was held with Chapter Leaders this bond, chances are good that most of us feel distressed and dis-
and ARCC Delegates and it was determined that it would be helpful to mayed that the legislative and administrative maneuverings brought
reinvigorate the Appalachian Regional Conservation Committee. The
ARCC will bring together strengths of the member Chapters and in turn about by today's political climate are slowing eroding the laws protecting
help the Chapters have greater impact on regional issues. our environment. Beyond these feelings may be a sense of futility to
fight this as the realities of work and family in today's fast paced society
In a caucus at the Council of Club Leaders and a later conference call, force us to carefully allocate our time among many competing interests.
we have determined that we would focus on energy issues for 2004. This As a working mother who often feels rather time-challenged, I can cer-
is in keeping with SC national goals of hitting hard on issues where the tainly attest to that.
Bush Administration is weak and vulnerable, and offering visionary solu-
tions. Our premise is that if the public is informed regarding these issues, However, as new member of the Sierra Club and the Anti-Pollution
they will take action to insure that we will get improved governmental Committee of the Delaware Chapter, I can also attest to the fact that
stewardship of the environment. 2004 is a critical year for us to have the you do not need to allocate enormous amounts of time to get involved
public informed and involved in the environment. and make a difference.
The ARCC plan is to build an American Independence Energy Policy Locally many opportunities exist for involvement in community
Alternative (AIEPA) that will contrast with the Bush Corporate Energy action to improve our environment. Since joining the anti-pollution com-
Policy. We will put together an Energy Policy Roadshow Kit that will con- mittee, I have become a member of the Motiva Citizen's Advisory Panel.
sist of modules that Chapters will use to put on events. Various modules
that have been proposed include: damage caused by dirty fossil fuels and This means attending a two hour meeting once a month with officials
alternatives to them; conservation measures that can be taken by govern- from Motiva to foster public accountability and communication.
ment agencies, businesses and every citizen to reduce power demand;
reduction of vehicle emissions; tax incentives and penalties to promote Some of my other activities include:
reduced and clean energy use; increased funding of rail projects; respon- · Spending an hour on Newark Community day at the Sierra Club booth
sible management of the national electrical grid; nuclear power; use of obtaining signatures to present to our congressmen urging support for
best practices in building to increase energy efficiency. the Clean Air Act
· Attending the Clean Air Forum held at the University of Delaware this
The AIEPA will show how we can reduce our reliance on use of dirty for- past November
eign fossil fuels, and accelerate the development of clean energy · Signing up for the Delaware Natural Resources and Environmental
sources, practices and industries. This will make America more energy Control Public Notices List of industry permit applications and pollution
independent and position our industries for the inevitable decline of fossil violations
fuels in the future. · Attending various public hearings and community forums related to
Here is an example of the kinds of contrasts the Kit could include. The industry air pollution controls and acid plant
Bush Corporate Energy Policy has created a tax loophole that gives
deductions of up to $100,000 for the purchase of Hummers and other Change may come slowly, but it can happen. Public opinion is
SUV's over 6,000 lbs. These are the worst gas hogs and polluters. The important as we saw early this year when environmental and civic
AIEPA can advocate increased public funding support for rail, as the least groups, state legislators and many citizens voiced strong opposition at
polluting, most energy efficient, and most cost-effective transportation plans to allow the disposal of sulfur dioxide in the Delaware River. Our
option per passenger mile. This is just one possible idea. Our members voices were heard and this did not happen.
will have many more and better ones.
As Americans we are free to express our opinions. Please cele-
The keys to making this plan happen is to for you, our concerned mem- brate this right by staying informed of environmental issues on a local
bers, to volunteer to work on the different modules. There are lots of and national level and let our senators and representative know how
resources on energy issues out there, including other volunteers, Sierra you feel. Take things one step further and become a member of the
Club staff, other non-profit organizations and government agencies. You anti-pollution committee. Only an hour or two a month can make a sig-
don't have to be an expert on the issue (although some of you are), you nificant difference to the world around us.
just have to be interested in it and willing to help pull together the infor-
mation that is out there and plug it into the AIEPA. Both Sierra Club staff
members and other volunteers (like me!) will be eager to help you find The Sierra Club Anti-pollution Committee will meet on Tuesday, January
resources and put what you find into the final Energy Policy Roadshow 27th at 6pm at the Blue & Gold Club (UD), 44 Kent Way in Newark. Food and
Kit.
beverages are available and you can park in the Club lot. All members are
If you are interested in contributing your time, information, expertise or invited to join us in our efforts to reduce toxic emissions in Delaware. We
funding to help us get the public to demand an American Independence need a group to focus on mercury, and another to work on PCB emissions.
Energy Policy Alternative to the Bush Corporate Energy Policy, please Lori Fencer represents the Sierra Club on the Citizens Advisory Panel
contact me. Bob Morris, Chair, ARCC, at the number or address below. (Motiva's Delaware City Refinery) while I serve on their Environmental
With your support, we can do better! Advisory Panel. Perhaps members in Wilmington could fwirj with the group
working on the sewage treatment plant and the Cherry Island landfill. You do
Bob Morris not need to be a scientist to work on these issues. You do need a desire to
Chair, Appalachian Regional Conservation Committee improve life in Delaware! Please call me at 455-0389 or e-mail to alvalde-
Mssbobm@earthlink.net nio@aol.com if you plan to attend. I hope to see you there. ....Al Denio
Phone or fax: 202-548-8255
Delaware Chapter Sierra Club January/February 2004 5
Sierra Recycling Resolution, continued from page 1 Public Hearings continued from page 1

the role of "the public". It says "the public's primary right is to submit a
THE RESOLUTION'S FINDINGS: request … which can lead to a public hearing. However, there is no
1. That waste disposal is a regional problem. mention of the public's right to cross-examine witnesses or otherwise
2. That an equitable long term resolution of Delaware's solid waste conduct a litigation-style proceeding". It further clarifies "The role of the
issues will require com prehensive long range planning beyond just the public is to provide input into the record to assist the Secretary in mak-
City of Wilmington and the boundaries of New Castle County. ing a permit decision. The public may be afforded the opportunity to
3. That immediate efforts should be made to achieve the mandatory ask relevant questions of a permit applicant through the Hearing Officer.
reduction of waste materials through the introduction of alternative So, it seems we can make requests, but we may not be able to ask
waste disposal and treatment programs. questions. DNREC indicates that it is concerned that the hearing
4. That the Sierra Club supports a solid waste policy for Delaware records may become bloated with irrelevant material. While this may be
based upon waste reduction and diversion, recycling, and respect for a valid concern, it seems unreasonable to throw out the wheat with the
our communities, our health and our environment. chaff. Has it occurred to DNREC (and our state government) that there
THE RESOLUTION'S RECOMMENDATIONS: might actually be something useful in the comments of an ordinary citi-
Based upon the resolutions above findings the DE Chapter advocates zen?
the following course of action and urges The Delaware General
DNREC further clarifies that "pre-hearing activities" should be used to
Assembly to enact legislation during the 2004 term which, at a mini-
raise and/or clarify issues prior to the actual public hearing. It is not
mum, would statutorily mandate the following:
clear if the "pre-hearing" will generate any sort of written record. If the
a. divert at least 50% of Delaware's solid wastes from landfilling on or
purpose of these revised rules is to streamline the public hearing, and to
before June 1, 2006; and
eliminate irrelevant questions, then it seems that adhering to normal
b. divert at least 70% of Delaware's solid wastes from landfilling on or
meeting practices (like Robert's Rules of Order) to control the meeting
before June 1, 2012; and
and keep it on course is the proper way to conduct the hearings. We
c. ban Yard waste from landfilling in Delaware on or before June 1,
shouldn't need to add another meeting. And then what if the "pre-meet-
2006;
ing" gets bogged down - perhaps we'll need a "pre-pre-meeting"?
d. ban Paper from landfilling in Delaware on or before June 1, 2006;
and Organizations other than the Sierra Club have already come out against
e. implement a mandatory curbside collection program for recyclables these new guidelines including Common Cause, Green Delaware, the
which would, at a minimum include League of Women Voters, and the Mid-Atlantic Environmental Law
glass, metal and plastic containers, paper, and yard wastes on or Center. We applaud them for their efforts.
before June 1, 2005, for all solid waste collection customers
thereby reducing the near-term need to expand Delaware's landfills, It is absolutely necessary for the public to be an equal partner with gov-
allow for the development of comprehensive long-range solid waste dis- ernment agencies in regulating and protecting our resources - natural,
posal plans, the exploration and implement of environmentally sustain- financial, or otherwise. The public hearing is a major part in that process
able alternate technologies and the closing of the Cherry Island Landfill. and its effectiveness should not be diluted in the interest of bureaucratic
expedience.

CLEAN WATER: A Bad Blend Sierra New Castle County 2004 Political Election
The Bush Administration's new recipe for water Endorsement Project
includes a heaping helping of sewage, a dash of
parasites and a dollop of viruses. In early As we chime in the new year, coffee, tea and personal new year's
November, the EPA released draft guidelines that resolutions are not all that is brewing in New Castle County (NCC). NCC
would exempt public treatment facilities from Sierra Club members will be especially busy this year with the upcoming
removing pathogens from sewage during heavy county elections in November 2004.
rainstorms and snowmelts. The Administration's
plan would allow the plants to bypass killing virus- Since this is a golden opportunity to endorse potential candidates we believe
es anytime there is a high water flow. The carry our priorities, the NCC Sierra Club is initiating a 2004 Political Election
Centers for Disease Control estimates an already Endorsement Project (PEEP). Our primary
alarming rate of 560,000 cases of
goal is to endorse and elect pro-environmental candidates to NCC.
moderate to severe waterborne diseases in the
U.S. per year.
PEEP is just getting organized and a committee is being formed. Some of
Read the Associated Press article here: the action items we will be involved in are: 1). Identifying the Issues,
<http://www.enn.com/news/2003-11- 2).Developing the questionnaire, 3). Interfacing with candidates, 4).
04/s_10061.asp> Analyzing responses, 5). Publishing Endorsements. If you would like to learn
more and join the group contact Val Johns at vblueheron@comcast.net.

Delaware Chapter Sierra Club January/February 2004 6

T h e T h o u g h t Provo k i n g p a g e . . . . . . . . . .
compiled from here and there

FACTORY FARMS: It's a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World

Steak knives are gathering dust across America after the recent
discovery of the first U.S. case of mad cow disease. Consumer
advocates are urging the government to adopt stricter safeguards
and increase inspection procedures on factory farms. According
to the Organic Consumers Association, France tests more cattle
in a single week than the U.S. has tested in a decade despite it
having only a fraction of the U.S. cattle population. Some con-
sumers are opting for organic meat, which has a stricter certifica-
tion process and more ongoing inspections of organic farms. This
may make it less likely to be contaminated by mad cow disease
(Oregonian, Jan. 6, 2004).

Check out the Eat Well Guide website to find out where to pur-
chase organic meat in your neighborhood:
<http://www.eatwellguide.org/search.cfm>

WHERE DO DELAWARE’S POULTRY AND CATTLE FARMS

STAND ON THIS ANIMAL FEED ISSUE??
<http://www.grinningplanet.com/2003/judge-is-nuts/environmen-
tal-issue-24.htm>
“
The USDA and FDA contend that a 1997 regulation prohibiting
Seattle Begins Mandatory Recycling
By Bob Young >Seattle Times staff reporter
feeding of most mammalian proteins to ruminants should be
enough to ensure that cows in the US don't contract BSE. <http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2001816055_recy-
cling16m0.html >
Curbside Recycling will become mandatory in Seattle under new
However, there are still several back doors through which the dis-
rules the City Council passed unanimously yesterday. The new
ease could hit US cows:
rules require Seattle residents to recycle paper, cardboard, glass
· Blood and fat from rendered cow wastes are still allowed in and plastic bottles, and aluminum and tin cans, starting Jan. 1,
cattle feed. (The USDA thinks these substances cannot transmit 2005. If these recyclable materials are found in garbage cans and trash
the infectious agent, but there is no guarantee.) bins, the containers will be tagged as part of a yearlong education cam-
· The 1997 regulation allows the cow parts that are banned from paign. Beginning in 2006, residential customers will be warned if the
cow feed to still be used in feed for pigs or chickens. materials are found in trash receptacles. If banned materials are found
Slaughterhouse waste from those animals can then legally be fed three times, the city will refuse to collect the garbage until such items
back to cows. are removed. Commercial customers can be fined up to $50 for each
· Pet food can contain slaughterhouse waste. Expired pet food container that includes banned materials. But single-family households
occasionally ends up in cattle feed. will not face a monetary penalty under the new rules. The rules stem
from Seattle's slumping recycling rate, which dropped from 44 per-
cent in 1995 to 38 percent in 2001. The city's goal is a 60 percent
It's not much of a stretch to think that there is risk in allowing
recycling rate by 2010. The city was supposed to hit a 52 percent rate
these potential sources of BSE to continue to be used in cattle last year.
feed. One critic of US policy is John Stauber, who has been
studying BSE for more than a decade. Stauber thinks it's possi- "Our main purpose is to get people to recycle more paper. That's our
ble that BSE is already spreading in the US "under the radar" of main emphasis, not the punitive points of this," said Marianne Bichsel,
the USDA's tests. spokeswoman for Mayor Greg Nickels, who sent the recycling initiative
to the council earlier this year. Seattleites throw out about 72,000 tons
It is recommended that the US implement a complete ban on of recyclable paper each year. Nickels' original proposal also called for
slaughterhouse waste in animal feed, just as Europe did after the commercial customers, such as restaurants, to recycle food waste, but
horrible outbreak there in the 1990s.” the new rules don't require that. City officials still are refining the details
of such a plan.

Delaware Chapter Sierra Club January/February 2004 7

 Sierra Club Calendar January - February 2004
January February
8 - Thursday 1 - Sunday
Social. 6:30 p.m., The Lobby House, E. Loockerman Street, Dover Meet-the-Sierra Club Brunch. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Brew Haha, 45
For information, call Ron Zink at 735-8996. East Main St, Newark (in the Main Street Galleria). Meet chapter
members and learn about Sierra Club plans for the coming year
10 - Saturday while you nosh on a bagel and sip some brew. Do you have ideas
Help Set Conservation Priorities - a Workshop. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., on what you feel is important? If so, bring them with you. Or, are
Community Service Building, Wilmington. Help establish Delaware you just curious about what the Sierra Club is about? Please take
Sierra Club conservation priorities for the coming year. this opportunity to answer your questions and learn about upcom-
ing outdoor activities, education programs, and socials as well as
also the hot conservation issues.
Dinner at the Iron Hill Brewery, 6 p.m., River Front
and "Pieces of April," 8 p.m., N Theater. For information about the 5 - Thursday
movie, and to order tickets in advance, which is recommended, visit Social. 6:30 p.m., The Lobby House, E. Loockerman Street,
the N's website at www.nemourstheatre.org. Dover.
For planning purposes, please let Terri know by 5 p.m. Friday, the For information, call Ron Zink at 735-8996.
9th, if you will be joining us for dinner or the show (ttipping@gun-
nip.com or 225-5120). 18 - Wednesday
Conservation Committee meeting. 7 - 9 p.m., Ron Zink's home,
20 - Tuesday Dover.*
Executive Committee meeting. 7 - 9 p.m., Dave Kiefer's home, All members are encouraged to attend Conservation Committee
Dover.* Executive Committee meetings are open to all members, meetings.
who are encouraged to attend and take an active part in their chap-
ter. In the Works -
A NEW CASTLE COUNTY OUTINGS COMMITTEE
21 - Wednesday
Judicial Nominations Letter-Writing. 7 p.m., Brew HaHa, Trolley We are looking to form an active Outings Committee for New
Square, Wilmington. This opportunity is open to all. Come out and Castle County. Are you interested in leading some activities or in
find out about the latest Bush nominees and federal court packing offering suggestions? The goal is to schedule a get together and
expected in 2004. organize a variety of activities. Sound fun? Then please contact
Terri Tipping at ttipping@gunnip.com or phone 302-225-5120.
23 - Friday
Lecture and slide show. Dr. Gary D. Wray, historian, will present *For committee meeting agendas and directions to meetings, call
"History of World War II Lookout Towers in Cape Henlopen State the chapter office at 302-425-4911.
Park,' including effects of severe beach erosion. 6:30 p.m., St.
Peter's Episcopal Church, Lewes. Program co-sponsored with the MEETING SCHEDULE FOR EARLY 2004*
Fort Miles Historical Association.
January 20 Executive Committee Dave Keifer's home
1:00 p.m., the Callanen's home, Ocean View. Contact Steve for February 18 Conservation Committee Ron Zink's home
directions and information at 302-539-0635. March 23 Executive Committee Dave Keifer's home
April 14 Conservation Committee Ron Zink's home
27 - Tuesday May 18 Executive Committee Dave Keifer's home
6:00p.m., Anti-pollution Committee, at the Blue & Gold Club (UD), June 16 Conservation Committee Ron Zink's home
44 Kent Way in Newark. Call Al Denio at 455-0389

BE PART OF THE ACTION!!!

Keep in touch with what is happening locally and nationally as well as get involved by participating in sharing
the environmental viewpoint!
1. Sign up for Delaware Chapter's e-mail alert list - The Delaware Environmental Alert List! Send an email to
Debbie.heaton@sierraclub.org to be included. This list will key you into state and national issues of interest to
Delawearans.
2. Visit the Sierra Club's Web site at www.sierraclub.org/takeaction, where you can sign up for the Take Action
Network to send free messages to your elected officials.
3. For the inside story about Club conservation campaigns and how you can help, ask for a free subscription to
the bimonthly print newsletter the Planet. Send an e-mail to activist.desk@sierraclub.org or write the office of
Explore, enjoy and protect the planet
Volunteer and Activist Services, 85 Second Street, San Francisco, CA 94105-3441.

Delaware Chapter Sierra Club January/February 2004 8