Organizations

September 2009                            Issue #8

Hi All:

We held our first organizational meeting for Sustainable Santa Cruz last May There were four of us who organized this meeting, three of whom had attended a Transition Town training in Tucson the previous April.

With the environmental and economic crises heating up around us and sense of great urgency in the air, we felt it was time to see if there were others in our Santa Cruz community who might join us in starting a grass-roots, citizen-based movement here in Tubac.

We have held monthly and later in the summer, bi-weekly meetings until August. We have sent out lots of ideas for potential projects in our area in our emails that also announce upcoming meetings. We have shown sustainability films and a slide presentation on what the Transition Town movement is all about.

In August, attendance was so low, that we quite frankly, decided to reassess our direction.We will be announcing a future meeting, sometime later in the fall or even winter, that will again open up a conversation about how to unfold this organization.

We feel that with more of our winter season population back, we might be more successful in attracting a larger audience for programs. One learning is that we will spend more time and emphasis on raising the general level of awareness around sustainability topics rather than trying to launch community-wide projects - at least if our summer experience has been any indication.

We are certainly open to any comments you may have over the fall. Please feel free me at 707-217-6675, lellinor@q.com.

Linda Ellinor
for
Sustainable Santa Cruz

PREVIOUS NEWSLETTERS

Sustainable Santa Cruz Meeting Notes
Events, Information and News
Issue #6
In This Issue
Meeting Notes
Segment Working Group Updates
Reviewed for Approval
Information & News
Local Events & Meetings
Statewide Events & Meetings
National Events
Quotes

Segment Working Group Updates
New information:
Agriculture
An eastern county local food provider list is available.  Sustainable Tucson is working on one.  A list of local food providers for the region will be compiled and mapped.
Plans for the new Rio Rico Retail Development will be comprehended.  Will space for a Agricultores Mercado be a part of the plans?

Energy
Determine if hydroelectric power generation deployed in outflow from the Nogales International Wastewater Treatment Plant has been considered.  Example:
http://hydrocoilpower.com/homehydrocoilpower.html
Determine the status of implementing methane gas power generation at theNogales International Wastewater Treatment Plant and Santa Cruz County Rio Rico Landfill.
A Solar Affordable Housing Program was started in California in 2004.  They have installed 230 solar electric systems with low-income families throughout the state and trained workers along the way.  Could this be done in southern Arizona?  http://www.gridalternatives.org/aboutus

Marshall Magruder Energy Update                        
A request for Utility Pole and Cable Information in Santa Cruz County has been sent out.
Reduced cost CFL Light Bulbs are available at Home Depot through the UniSource program.
E-Fuel's MicroFuelerT, earth's first home organic fuel processing system, will be available soon.  Their mission is to provide consumers a superior fuel product to gasoline that's environmentally-friendly, inexpensive, and accessible to everyone. 
Designed with the consumer in mind, the MicroFueler looks and operates like your typical corner gas station pump. Installation requires water, electricity and a drain.  Would this be beneficial in helping the county government reduce their fuel costs?
http://www.microfueler.com/default.aspx
Recycling
Setup a field trip to County Facilities with Karl Moyers, (520) 761-7892.
Transportation
Arizona Rail Passenger Association did exist in the past, they were a non-profit volunteer organization striving to improve and expand all forms of rail passenger service in Arizona, http://archive.azrail.org/arpa.htm
ADOT Unified Nogales/Santa Cruz County Transportation 2010 Plan Study Meeting was held on 07/22 in Nogales,  http://mpd.azdot.gov/planning/nogales_santacruz.php.  There are no state funded transportation improvements in Santa Cruz county through 2012.  Frontage road improvements in Rio Rico are listed for 2013 as Projects Not Programmed in ADOT documents.  There will be a new ADOT Engineer in Tucson that will be contacted.
Group feedback, more emphasis on bicycling in Tubac and Santa Cruz Valley.  Identify trail map for bikes, equestrian and pedestrians.
Water Conservation, saving water saves energy, and saving energy saves water.
Rainwater Harvesting
Pursue legislation mandating greywater and rainwater harvesting on new structures.  Determine what will be implemented in Tucson as reference.

New Google Group:  Santa Cruz Watershed Ecosystem Portfolio Model (SCWEPM).
Developing a USGS Ecosytem Portfolio Model (EPM).

ADEQ Awards $300, 000 Water Quality Improvement Grant to Lake Havasu City in Mohave County.  Lake Havasu City to continue to replace septic tanks with new connections to the city's wastewater system.  Does the region have same need?
Information/Speaker Series
A Renewable Energy Expo will be held when there are adequate resources to have an event that will be a great experience for both attendees and participants.  Marcelino Varona will be contacted to determine what he would like have happen in Nogales.
In the interim information from other expo's will be collected.  A local contractor/supplier list for renewable energy will be compiled and mapped.
ASES National Solar Tour on Saturday, October 3, 2009 in conjunction with National Energy Awareness Month.  It was determined that this may be pursued locally in 2010.  http://www.ases.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=169&Itemid=36
The Rural Living in Santa Cruz County, A guide to resources and regulations for country living has been published.  Editors are Dean Fish for U of A Extension, Linda Kennedy from Audubon and Chris Haas from Audubon, Kristen Egen from NRCS, and Marshall Magruder. Kim Webb with Coronado RSCD did the cover illustration as well as design and development.
In this handbook you'll find brief description of the history and ecology of the region, intro to rural living and the State land system, alternative building materials used in Santa Cruz County, Sustainability, Domestic Water Conservation, Living with Wildlife, Small-scale Food Production and Community Gardens, Raising Livestock, Being a Good Neighbor, Schools, and a Web-based Resource Directory. 
Copies will be obtained or it can be found online, http://www.audubonresearchranch.org/PDFs/RuralLiving2009.pdf
Should a community sustainability checklist or Quality of Life Assessment Index be used to determine impacts of improvements?
For example:  http://cochise.az.gov/QOLWebSite/Default.htm
A community sustainability checklist will be obtained.

DVD Screenings:
Next DVD - Red Gold, Bristol Bay Alaska residents oppose proposed copper mines. 
http://www.ironweedfilms.com/films/
and any video available on the proposed Rosemont mine.
Recommended Reading:
Deep Economy by Bill McKibben
The bestselling author issues an impassioned call to arms for an economy that creates community and ennobles our lives. He has a great way of presenting many of the concepts central to the transition movement.
http://www.billmckibben.com/deep-economy.html

The Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight, Thom Hartman
While it seems that things are collapsing all around us - and on many fronts they are (global warming, humans messing with genes, virulent diseases, the end of cheap oil, water shortages, global famine, wars, etc.) - it's also possible for us to do something about it and create a world that will work for our children's children.
"The Last Hours of Ancient Sunlight" details in three parts the damage being done to our biosphere, the reasons why our culture would inevitably do such damage, and how we can fix the problem.
http://www.thomhartmann.com/category/books/page/2/
The End of Money and the Future of Civilization, Thomas H. Greco, Jr.
Like the proverbial fish who doesn't know what water is, we swim in an economy built on money that few of us comprehend, and, most definitely, what we don't know is hurting us.
Very few people realize that the nature of money has changed profoundly over the past three centuries, or-as has been clear with the latest global financial crisis-the extent to which it has become a political instrument used to centralize power, concentrate wealth, and subvert popular government. On top of that, the economic growth imperative inherent in the present global monetary system is a main driver of global warming and other environmental crises.
http://www.chelseagreen.com/bookstore/item/the_end_of_money_and_the_future_of_civilizationaperback
Recommended Activity:
Rosemont Copper hosts tours of the proposed site weekly. Each tour runs from 9:00 a.m. to noon and will be limited to 10 people.  http://www.rosemontcopper.com/tours.asp
Public Policy Advocacy
Create a cooperative by and for the people of Southern Arizona to strengthen the region's historical traditions of communal stewardship and promotion of the common good. Members would be  worker-owners in businesses that are committed to trading goods and services in ways that foster the social, economic and ecological health and integrity of Northern New Mexico and beyond.
Study successful cooperative structures.
Bethesda Green, http://bethesdagreen.org/bgreen/default.aspx
Santa Fe, Capulin Cooperative Alliance, http://www.capulin.coop/
Sonoma GoLocal, http://sonomacounty.golocal.coop/
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Meeting Notes
Arizona State budget cuts will impact the county.  2009 - 2010 $111 Million Tentative Budget.  Numerous proposed cuts discussed to eliminate the depletion of the reserve fund.  Personnel, travel, libraries, outsourcing facilities maintenance, combining department functions.  Library and Community college/adult education funding taxes needed.  $2.1 million in cuts needed, included 23 positions, Tubac Community Center, etc..  Shop local by the county was suggested by attendees.  Increased sales tax and jobs as a result.
Three Rio Rico Planned Area Development concept plans have been approved.  There is generous open space in all plans.
Santa Cruz County Planning and Zoning
Working sessions held with the public on Planned Area Development (PAD).
Suggested improvements submitted:
Change the open space terminology to remove non-buildable area on individual lots. 
Suggested removal of density bonus for target golf courses.
Add bonus density for maintaining agricultural/ranch lands.
Raise the bar on the level of LEED certification.  At least make it progressive from Silver to Gold to Platinum over a number of years.  Include common area buildings as well.
Reviewed for Approval
Name: Sustainable Santa Cruz will be used.
Mission Statement - Revision 1.
To ensure the Santa Cruz Valley region's environment and resiliency in the face of Peak Oil, Climate Change and Economic Crisis by the best use of our resources such as energy, water, food, transportation, and housing.

Or include an environmental statement in the vision.

Our Vision - Starting Point
Develop a comprehensive plan for transitioning to a re-localized economy.
Help establish the partnerships that will be the basis for this critical effort.
Identify and implement sustainable living practices.
Participation in citizen based advocacy for regional planning by our local government.

Website url to be used:                www.sscaz.org
Determine which is the best fit for hosting.  One final review will be done.
Google Sites
or
Microsoft Office Live Small Business
Information Related to Segment Working Groups
National System of Public Lands Restoration Design Energy Project
Funded under the Department of Interior's American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) of 2009, will support the goals to build America's new energy future and to protect and restore treasured landscapes.    The investments will restore landscapes and habitat, spur renewable energy development on public lands, and create jobs.  To submit a site to be considered for inclusion in the environmental analysis, please send the attached form by August 14, 2009. 
Additional Information:
http://recovery.doi.gov/press/bureaus/bureau-of-land-management/
New Jersey Guard, Engineers Team Up for Solar Power Projects
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is constructing two carport solar power projects for the New Jersey National Guard - one for the Joint Forces Headquarters at Fort Dix and one for the National Training Facility Headquarters at Sea Girt.
Commentarry: How about at the Nogales Armory on 676 N. Western Avenue?

Battle of the States Begins: Arizona Wants Solar Business
Arizona wants to be the "solar-energy hub of the world," Kristin Mays, chair of the Arizona Corporation Commission, which regulates utilities in the state, said at the Intersolar North America conference in San Francisco.
California Agribusiness Uses Solar to Irrigate Crop
A giant California grower has just installed 1 MW of solar power to water their 7,000 acre farm. The 6,400 solar panels power pumps to bring water up from wells for irrigation.
Additional Information:
http://www.solardaily.com/reports/Perpetual_Power_Completes_Solar_Powered_Water_Pumping_Systems_999.html
Growing Food in a Desert City Using Rainwater and Urban Runoff
How one farmer learned to harvest runoff from rooftops, yards, parking lots and a city street to farm in Tucson.
Information & News
Taking Shorter Showers Doesn't Cut It: Why Personal Change Does Not Equal Political Change
Are we taking the easy route?  Consumer culture and the capitalist mindset have taught us to substitute acts of personal consumption for organized political resistance.
Sustainability Down Under, Energy Champions
Alice Springs Solar City, part of the Australian Government's Solar Cities program, is a $37 million project designed to explore how solar power, energy efficient technologies and new approaches to electricity supply and pricing can encourage the residents of Alice Springs to become energy champions and develop a sustainable energy future.
New Film: What's on Your Plate?
A documentary about kids and food politics. Filmed over the course of one year, the film follows two eleven-year-old African-American city kids as they explore their place in the food chain.  View Trailer.
Local Events & Meetings 
Local Sustainability for Eastern Santa Cruz County, Patagonia, Cady Hall, 07/25 1:30, FOCUS on Water, update on threat to our watershed by proposed Rosemont Mining operation and DVD viewing "Water - The Great Mystery"
Local Sustainability for Eastern Santa Cruz County, Patagonia, Cady Hall, 08/22 1:30, FOCUS on Food, how is our summer harvest and DVD viewing "Future of Food"
Santa Cruz Valley Citizens Council (SCVCC) Meeting, Tubac Community Center, 09/21/09 9:00 AM
Local Sustainability for Eastern Santa Cruz County, Patagonia, Cady Hall, 09/26 1:30, FOCUS on Public Health / Community & Social Services / Housing
Local Sustainability for Eastern Santa Cruz County, Patagonia, Cady Hall, 10/17 1:30, FOCUS on Transportation and Economy
Local Sustainability for Eastern Santa Cruz County, Patagonia, Cady Hall, 11/21 1:30, WRAP-UP of the year's meetings and what now? 
Statewide Events & Meetings
Member Recommended Event:
Direct Farm Marketing and Organic Certification Workshop, Depot Building, 101 S. Railroad Ave., Willcox, AZ, 07/27, Rob Call, Agent, Cochise County, recall@cals.arizona.edu, 520-384-3594
http://ag.arizona.edu/arec/dept/dfmworkshops2009.html
Member Recommended Event:
Sustainable Ranch Tour, Moroney Family's historic 47 Ranch, 08/02, BAJA Arizona Sustainable Agriculture (BASA) Event, valerie.mccaffrey@bajaaz.org, www.bajaaz.org
Nurturing Sustainability in Arizona Lunch, 08/03 11:30 AM, Greekfest Restaurant, 1940 E Camelback, Phoenix, http://www.azigg.com/
Special Guests:After a successful investment career in New York and Tokyo, Bob Shatz wanted to live in Tucson and make a difference. So he went about researching what industries to work in and to grow. His conclusion: Sustainability. Today his work with Ron Richman, Richard McKinney and the team at ITDC, www.inno-tech.org, is an Arizona success story that few below Ina Road know about.  Now you will.
Bob, Ron and Richard will be joined by the one and only Dee Harris, long-team leader of the of Arizona Angels Investor Network, http://www.arizonaangels.com/index.htm, Dee is the definitive knowledge source for tech investing in Arizona.
Energy and Environmental Building Association (EEBA) Houses That Work (HTW),  08/07/09, Prescott Resort & Conference Center, http://eeba.org/calendar/view_event.asp?CalendarID=528
Member Recommended Event:
Sustainable Tucson's General Meeting, 08/12 5:45 PM, Joel Valdez Main Library, Downtown Tucson, 101 N. Stone Avenue
"The Global Financial Meltdown: Its Causes, and Opportunities for Localized Restructuring" illustrated presentation by Thomas H. Greco, Jr., http://www.sustainabletucson.org/

Woodstock Concert Documentary, 08/13 7:30 PM, Cinema La Placita Tucson, http://www.cinemalaplacita.com/

Woodstock Tribute Concert, 08/15 7:30 PM, The Rialto Theatre Tucson, http://www.rialtotheatre.com/
Chile Festival at Bisbee Farmers Market, 08/22 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Locally grown green chile without pesticides by San Simon Chile Company, Contact Laura Smith at 520-236-8409 for more information.
2009 Governor's Regional and Rural Development Conference, 08/26-28, Litchfield Park, Arizona, Wigwam Resort http://www.ruraldevelopmentconference.com/

Solar Fusion 2009, University of Arizona, 08/28/09 9:00 4:30 PM, An
array of artistry and technology, the event features tours of the Arizona solar house, conversations with UA researchers in a poster session, and Town Halls on Solar Building. http://azrise.org/node/96
Sierra Vista Organic Garden Tour, 08/30, BAJA Arizona Sustainable Agriculture (BASA) Event, valerie.mccaffrey@bajaaz.org, www.bajaaz.org
Sun Power, Tucson Children's Museum Free Solar Event for Families, 09/07 http://www.tucsonchildrensmuseum.org/
Member Recommended:
2009 Southwest Renewable Energy Conference, Flagstaff, 09/10-11 http://swrec.org/

"Treasures of the Santa Cruz Valley: A Celebration of Our Natural, Cultural, and Historic Heritage", A juried exhibition benefiting the Santa Cruz Valley Heritage Alliance, Blue Raven Gallery & Gifts Tucson, 09/12 thru 10/31, Fundraiser on 09/26, http://www.blueravengalleryandgifts.com/
Natural Top Bar Beekeeping For Beginners, ReZoNation Farms & Consulting Avra Valley, 09/13 08:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Cost $75, Jaime de Zubeldia 520-869-1044 jdezubel@yahoo.com, http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/

Residents of Rio Rico General Meeting, 09/22, Acivic organization devoted to promoting awareness within the Community.

Introduction to Permaculture, Mesquite Tree Permaculture Site Tucson, 10/10 09:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Cost: $59, Dan Dorsey (520) 624-8030 dorsey@dakotacom.net, http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/

Solutions for Green Living, Prescott Valley AZ, Tim's Toyota Center, 09/26, http://www.solarpowerinternational.com/

Tucson Meet Yourself featuring Mesquite Milling, Main Library Courtyard, 10/09-11, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, "Tucson Meet Yourself is dedicated to the presentation of as broad as possible a range of the living traditional arts of southern Arizona's folk and ethnic communities as respectfully and accurately as possible, to as great as possible a cross-section of Tucsonans" - Jim Griffith, Ph.D. founder of TMY http://www.tucsonmeetyourself.org/

4th Annual Mesquite Milling & Pancake Breakfast, Bisbee Farmers Market, 10/17 08:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Baja AZ Sustainable Agriculture, (520)378-2973 or valerie.mccaffrey@bajaaz.org

Planting the Future Conference, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson AZ, 10/17, 09:30 AM - 4:30 PM, http://www.unitedplantsavers.org/index.php?mact=News,cntnt01,detail,0&cntnt01articleid=194&cntnt01returnid=43

It's All About the Soil - The future of sustainable agriculture, Tucson, 10/18 09:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Cost: $39, Dan Dorsey (520) 624-8030 dorsey@dakotacom.net, http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/

Water and Land for Renewable Energy in the Southwest, Tucson, 10/22-23 http://chubasco.hwr.arizona.edu/renewable/
Natural Building, Passive Solar Design, and Energy Saving Design, Tucson, 10/24 09:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Cost: $69, Dan Dorsey (520) 624-8030 dorsey@dakotacom.net, http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/

Complete Hands On Water Harvesting, Tucson, 10/31 09:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Cost: $59, Dan Dorsey (520) 624-8030 dorsey@dakotacom.net, http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/

7th Annual Desert Harvesters Mesquite Milling Fiesta and Mesquite Pancake Breakfast, Dunbar/Spring Organic Community Garden Tucson, 11/07 09:0 AM - 2:00 PM, http://www.desertharvesters.org/2009/05/27/7th-annual-desert-harvesters-mesquite-milling-fiesta/
Second Annual Advanced Permaculture Design Course, Dancing Rocks Permaculture Community 15 Miles north of Downtown Tucson, 11/13-15 09:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Dan Dorsey (520) 624-8030 dorsey@dakotacom.net, http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/

Greenbuild 2009, Phoenix Convention Center, 11/11-13, the world's largest expo hall devoted to green building, http://www.greenbuildexpo.org/
5th Annual Santa Cruz Farmers' Market Mesquite Milling, NE corner of Speedway and Riverview Tucson, 11/19, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, http://www.desertharvesters.org/2009/05/27/5th-annual-santa-cruz-farmers%e2%80%99-market-mesquite-milling/
http://communityfoodbank.com/community-food-security-center/farmer-markets/santa-cruz-river-farmers-market/
Upcoming National Events
National Clean Energy Summit 2.0: Jobs and the New Economy,University of Nevada, Las Vegas, Cox Pavilion, 08/10, http://cleanenergysummit.org/
Member Recommended:
Slow Money Inaugural National Gathering - From The Ground Up, Santa Fe Railyard, 09/10-11, Emerging network of investors, donors, farmers, and activists committed to building local food economies.  It's about the soil of the economy.  It's the beginning of the "nurture capital" industry,
http://www.slowmoneyalliance.org/national-gathering.html
Go Green Expo, Charlotte NC, The Park, 10/02-04, http://www.gogreenexpo.com/events/index.php?evid=9
Washington DC Green FestivalT, Washington Convention Center, 10/11-12,
http://www.greenfestivals.org/washington-dc/
Solar Power International 09, Anaheim CA, 10/27-29/09, Largest business to business solar event in North America.  http://www.solarpowerinternational.com/

Go Green Expo, Minneapolis MN, Minneapolis Convention Center, 11/06-08, http://www.gogreenexpo.com/events/index.php?evid=11

San Francisco Green FestivalT, San Francisco Concourse Exhibition Center, 11/13-15,
http://www.greenfestivals.org/san-francisco/
Renewable Energy World North America Conference & Exposition, Austin TX, 02/23-25/10,
http://www.renewableenergyworld-events.com/index.html
International Conference on Renewable Energy, December 2010, Albuquerque NM,
The 4th International Conference on Renewable Energy and Distributed
Resources, SETP SNL, and the Electric Power Research Institute have partnered to organize the internationally recognized event, which is expected to attract several hundred participants from the United States and abroad.
Quotes
"You must be the change you wish to see in the world. " 
Mohandas Gandhi
"What's another word for Thesaurus?"
Steven Wright

07/23/09 Meeting Agenda:
Introductions
Announcements and Events
Segment Working Group and Project Updates
     Agriculture
     Energy
     Recycling
     Transportation

     Water Conservation
     Informative/Speaker Series
     Public Policy Advocacy

Information Related to Segment Working Groups
Green Guide to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) is an unprecedented, sweeping effort to jumpstart our economy and make the necessary green investments to enable our nation to become more energy efficient, environmentally sustainable and economically secure.full text.
Note: Clean Renewable Energy Bonds (CRE applications are due August 4th, 2009.  This includes Landfill Gas which the Santa Cruz County government has shown interest in developing.
Recovery Act Announcement: DOE Announces up to $22 Million for Community Renewable Energy Deployment
U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced plans to provide up to $22 million from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act to support the planning and installation of utility-scale community renewable energy projects in up to four communities nationwide.
Completed applications are due September 3, 2009. DOE will select awardees by the end of November 2009.
American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
A comprehensive informational resource detailing energy efficiency measures included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA), or the economic stimulus package.

Free Federal Tax Incentive De-Coder
Experts read and de-coded the 400 page American Recovery and Reinvestment Act so that you wouldn't have to. They made it simple for you to easily take advantage of these government incentives.
More Cities Tap Stimulus Package for LED Streetlights
Cities across the USA are making their streetlights brighter and greener by switching to LEDs.  LED street lights cut energy use by about 50 percent.

GoSolarSF - Solar Energy Incentive Program
Last July, the City & County of San Francisco launched the first local solar energy incentive program in the nation, The results are in, and, the program is an unequivocal success.  In the year since our solar energy incentive program GoSolarSF launched, they have seen a 450% increase in applications for solar installations in San Francisco over the previous year, from 200 to 850.

To encourage more installations of solar power in San Francisco, the City is offering incentives to San Francisco residents and businesses to install solar power on their properties. The incentive program, GoSolarSF, coupled with the California Solar Initiative, a rebate program sponsored by the State of California, and federal tax credits, could pay half the cost or more of a solar power system installed in San Francisco. 
News
New Study Lifts the Curtain on Clean Coal Website
A new study from West Virginia University exposes one more dirty little secret about America's favorite fossil fuel, coal.  Though coal mining is touted as an economic boon to local communities, the study reviews mortality statistics to conclude that coal mining communities in Appalachia are among the weakest economies in their home states, and in the country.
Augusta Announces Receipt of Arizona State Approval for Rosemont Reclamation Plan and Economic Impact Study
Written notification was received from the Arizona State Mine Inspector that the Rosemont Copper Project Mined Land Reclamation Plan has been approved. The Rosemont reclamation plan calls for reclamation to begin after the first year of production and continue concurrently throughout the life of the project. Rosemont has contracted with the University of Arizona to study which native plants will re-vegetate most quickly to support the habitat, and to date that work has been limited to greenhouse research. With the approval by the Mine Inspector of the reclamation plan, these studies can now include construction of test plots on the site to evaluate the greenhouse re-vegetation results into the real setting in which they will be utilized.
Popular Science Green Home Guide
Information to save money and the planet.
Cooling Your Home Naturally
Keeping cool indoors when it is hot outdoors is a problem.  A document from 1994 that is still applicable.
Upcoming Local Events & Meetings
Free Clothes Exchange,1500 N. Hohokam Drive in the recreation gym, Nogales, 07/18 11:00 - 4:00,
Bring your good conditioned outgrown clothes and exchange them.
All sizes: for adults, youth and children.  Public swimming pool will be open.  Jumping Castle and Music
Contact: Dora Taddey (520) 604-6468 for details

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Meeting, 07/22 9:30 AM
Local Sustainability for Eastern Santa Cruz County, Patagonia, Cady Hall, 07/25 1:30, FOCUS on Water, update on threat to our watershed by proposed Rosemont Mining operation and DVD viewing "Water - The Great Mystery"
Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Meeting, 07/29 9:30 AM

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Meeting, 08/05 9:30 AM

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Meeting, 08/12 9:30 AM

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Meeting, 08/19 9:30 AM
Local Sustainability for Eastern Santa Cruz County, Patagonia, Cady Hall, 08/22 1:30, FOCUS on Food, how is our summer harvest and DVD viewing "Future of Food"
Santa Cruz Valley Citizens Council (SCVCC) Meeting, Tubac Community Center, 09/21/09 9:00 AM
Local Sustainability for Eastern Santa Cruz County, Patagonia, Cady Hall, 09/26 1:30, FOCUS on Public Health / Community & Social Services / Housing
Local Sustainability for Eastern Santa Cruz County, Patagonia, Cady Hall, 10/17 1:30, FOCUS on Transportation and Economy
Local Sustainability for Eastern Santa Cruz County, Patagonia, Cady Hall, 11/21 1:30, WRAP-UP of the year's meetings and what now?

Upcoming Regional Events & Meetings
The film Food, Inc. at the The Loft in Tucson, 07/17-23
Presented by The Food Conspiracy Co-op, and the Community Food Resource Center of the Community Food Bank.
Opening night event will include an opportunity to meet local farmers and ranchers.  Exhibits from local food advocates including Sustainable Tucson, and a special presentation on local food options in Tucson before the start of the film.
http://www.foodincmovie.com/
http://www.loftcinema.com/
http://www.foodconspiracy.org/
http://communityfoodbank.com/
http://www.sustainabletucson.org/
Food, Inc. The Companion Guide
The book is a companion to help one further explore the issues raised in the documentary.  http://eatdrinkbetter.com/2009/07/11/food-inc-the-companion-guide/
Sustainable Tucson Food Group Tour of the San Xavier Coop Farm, 07/18 8:00 AM,8100 S. Oidak Wog, Presentation by farm manager Bill Worthey and a wagon tour of the farm.  Contact: Judith Mattson, jasmwm@comcast.net
July Wilderness Photography Hike into the Tumacacori Highlands, 7/18 9:30 AM, Pena Blanca Campground parking area,
http://www.tumacacoriwild.org/monthly_hike.html
Training for Transition, 07/18-19,   Sonoran Institute Phoenix, Workshop: Designed to provide a detailed introduction to the skills necessary to successfully set up, develop, and run a Transition project in any locality.  Designed for people who are already in a group that is working to achieve this or who are thinking of creating such a group.  Two people can attend for the price of one: $200
http://transitionarizona.ning.com/events/training-for-transition
Tucson Mesquite Pod Harvesting, 07/19 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Contact: Laurie Melrood for details, lamidbar@gmail.com 520-884-5202

Transition Pima Event, 07/19 9:30 AM-4:00 PM, Sky Islands High School, 201 S. Wilmot.  TransitionPima@gmail.com
Local Foods Dinner, Maynards Market & Kitchen, 400 N. Toole Ave, Tucson., 07/22/09
The Santa Cruz Valley Heritage Alliance is partnering with Slow Food Tucson, Hotel Congress and Maynards Market & Kitchen for an evening of gourmet local foods and wine.  http://www.santacruzheritage.org/
Direct Farm Marketing and Organic Certification Workshop, Depot Building, 101 S. Railroad Ave., Willcox, AZ, 07/27, Rob Call, Agent, Cochise County, recall@cals.arizona.edu, 520-384-3594
http://ag.arizona.edu/arec/dept/dfmworkshops2009.html

Sustainable Ranch Tour, Moroney Family's historic 47 Ranch, 08/02, BAJA Arizona Sustainable Agriculture (BASA), valerie.mccaffrey@bajaaz.org www.bajaaz.org
Nurturing Sustainability in Arizona Lunch, 08/03 11:30 AM, Greekfest Restaurant, 1940 E Camelback, Phoenix, Special Guests:After a successful investment career in New York and Tokyo, Bob Shatz wanted to live in Tucson and make a difference. So he went about researching what industries to work in and to grow. His conclusion: Sustainability. Today his work with Ron Richman, Richard McKinney and the team at ITDC, www.inno-tech.org, is an Arizona success story that few below Ina Road know about.  Now you will.  Bob, Ron and Richard will be joined by the one and only Dee Harris, long-team leader of the of Arizona Angels Investor Network, http://www.arizonaangels.com/index.htm, Dee is the definitive knowledge source for tech investing in Arizona.  http://www.azigg.com/
Energy and Environmental Building Association (EEBA) Houses That Work (HTW),  Prescott Resort & Conference Center, 08/07/09
http://eeba.org/calendar/
Sustainable Tucson's General Meeting, 08/12 5:45 PM, Joel Valdez Main Library, Downtown Tucson, 101 N. Stone Avenue
"The Global Financial Meltdown: Its Causes, and Opportunities for Localized Restructuring" illustrated presentation by Thomas H. Greco, Jr.,
http://www.sustainabletucson.org/
Woodstock Concert Documentary, 08/13 7:30 PM, Cinema La Placita Tucson, http://www.cinemalaplacita.com/
Woodstock Tribute Concert, 08/15 7:30 PM, The Rialto Theatre Tucson, http://www.rialtotheatre.com/
Chile Festival at Bisbee Farmers Market,
08/22 8:00 AM - 1:00 PM,Locally grown green chile without pesticides by San Simon Chile Company, Contact Laura Smith at 520-236-8409 for more information.
2009 Governor's Regional and Rural Development Conference,  08/26-28, Litchfield Park, Arizona, Wigwam Resort
http://www.ruraldevelopmentconference.com/

Solar Fusion 2009, University of Arizona, 08/28/09 9:00 4:30 PM, An
array of artistry and technology, the event features tours of the Arizona solar house, conversations with UA researchers in a poster session, and Town Halls on Solar Building.
http://azrise.org/node/96
Sierra Vista Organic Garden Tour, 08/30, valerie.mccaffrey@bajaaz.org
www.bajaaz.org

Sun Power, Tucson Children's Museum Free Solar Event for Families, 09/07 http://www.tucsonchildrensmuseum.org/

2009 Southwest Renewable Energy Conference, Flagstaff, 09/10-11 http://swrec.org/

"Treasures of the Santa Cruz Valley: A Celebration of Our Natural, Cultural, and Historic Heritage",  A juried exhibition benefiting the Santa Cruz Valley Heritage Alliance, Blue Raven Gallery & Gifts Tucson, 09/12 thru 10/31, Fundraiser on 09/26,
http://www.blueravengalleryandgifts.com/
Natural Top Bar Beekeeping For Beginners, ReZoNation Farms & Consulting Avra Valley, 09/13 08:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Cost $75, Jaime de Zubeldia 520-869-1044 jdezubel@yahoo.com, http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/

Residents of Rio Rico General Meeting, 09/22, A civic organization devoted to promoting awareness within the Community
http://residentsofriorico.com/
Introduction to Permaculture, Mesquite Tree Permaculture Site Tucson, 10/10 09:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Cost: $59, Dan Dorsey (520) 624-8030 dorsey@dakotacom.net, http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/

Tucson Meet Yourself featuring Mesquite Milling, Main Library Courtyard, 10/09-11, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, "Tucson Meet Yourself is dedicated to the presentation of as broad as possible a range of the living traditional arts of southern Arizona's folk and ethnic communities as respectfully and accurately as possible, to as great as possible a cross-section of Tucsonans" - Jim Griffith, Ph.D. founder of TMY,
http://www.tucsonmeetyourself.org/
4th Annual Mesquite Milling & Pancake Breakfast, Bisbee Farmers Market, 10/17 08:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Baja AZ Sustainable Agriculture, (520)378-2973 or valerie.mccaffrey@bajaaz.org

Planting the Future Conference, Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, Tucson AZ, 10/17, 09:30 AM - 4:30 PM,
http://www.unitedplantsavers.org/index.php?mact=News,cntnt01,detail,0&cntnt01articleid=194&cntnt01returnid=43

It's All About the Soil - The future of sustainable agriculture, Tucson, 10/18 09:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Cost: $39, Dan Dorsey (520) 624-8030 dorsey@dakotacom.net, http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/

Water and Land for Renewable Energy in the Southwest, Tucson, 10/22-23 http://chubasco.hwr.arizona.edu/renewable/
Natural Building, Passive Solar Design, and Energy Saving Design, Tucson, 10/24 09:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Cost: $69, Dan Dorsey (520) 624-8030 dorsey@dakotacom.net,
http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/

Complete Hands On Water Harvesting, Tucson, 10/31 09:30 AM - 4:30 PM, Cost: $59, Dan Dorsey (520) 624-8030 dorsey@dakotacom.net, http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/
7th Annual Desert Harvesters Mesquite Milling Fiesta and Mesquite Pancake Breakfast, Dunbar/Spring Organic Community Garden Tucson, 11/07 09:0 AM - 2:00 PM,
http://www.desertharvesters.org/2009/05/27/7th-annual-desert-harvesters-mesquite-milling-fiesta/
Second Annual Advanced Permaculture Design Course, Dancing Rocks Permaculture Community 15 Miles north of Downtown Tucson, 11/13-15 09:30 AM - 5:30 PM, Dan Dorsey (520) 624-8030 dorsey@dakotacom.net,
http://www.sonoranpermaculture.org/courses-and-workshops/

5th Annual Santa Cruz Farmers' Market Mesquite Milling, NE corner of Speedway and Riverview Tucson, 11/19, 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM,
http://www.desertharvesters.org/2009/05/27/5th-annual-santa-cruz-farmers%e2%80%99-market-mesquite-milling/
http://communityfoodbank.com/community-food-security-center/farmer-markets/santa-cruz-river-farmers-market/
Upcoming National Events
CELEBRATE SUSTAINABLE SANTA FE - A People, Planet & Prosperity Phestival,  07/18-19, Santa Fe Convention Center NM,
http://worldwellness.org/
Go Green Expo, Charlotte NC, The Park, 10/02-04, http://www.gogreenexpo.com/events/index.php?evid=9
Washington DC Green FestivalT, Washington Convention Center, 10/11-12,
http://www.greenfestivals.org/washington-dc/
Solar Power International 09, Anaheim CA, 10/27-29/09, Largest business to business solar event in North America.
http://www.solarpowerinternational.com/

Go Green Expo, Minneapolis MN, Minneapolis Convention Center, 11/06-08, http://www.gogreenexpo.com/events/index.php?evid=11
San Francisco Green FestivalT, San Francisco Concourse Exhibition Center, 11/13-15, http://www.greenfestivals.org/san-francisco/
July Activities, Events and Meetings
Health Care Reform Rally
07/11 11:30 AM, Tucson Convention Center, North Exhibition Hall
Real Coverage, Real Competition, Real Choices, Real Reform.  Sponsored by Congressman Raúl M. Grijalva, http://grijalva.house.gov/
Solar Power 101: A Community Education Series on Solar Energy
07/13  6:00 PM
Himmel Park Branch Library
1035 N. Treat Avenue, Tucson (One block south of Speedway Blvd.)
Topic: Regional Solar Energy Update
Pima County: Pima County will give an overview of the County's current solar energy initiatives and what projects are to come. An overview of the Pima County residential permitting process will also be presented.
City of Tucson: The City of Tucson has been very active as a U.S. Department of Energy Solar America City. Information will be presented on their latest projects and future plans.

RSVP, solar@mail.house.gov or (520) 881-3588
Native Seeds/SEARCH River Bend Conservation Education Center Open House
7/14 5:00 PM
Brandi Fenton Memorial Park Visitor Center
348 E. River Road, Tucson
http://www.nativeseeds.org/

Sustainable Tucson's General Meeting
07/14 5:45 PM
Joel Valdez Main Library
101 N. Stone Avenue
Downtown Tucson
Screening of Fresh, the movie
FRESH celebrates the farmers, thinkers and business people across America who are re-inventing our food system. Each has witnessed the rapid transformation of our agriculture into an industrial model, and confronted the consequences: food contamination, environmental pollution, depletion of natural resources, and morbid obesity. Forging healthier, sustainable alternatives, they offer a practical vision for a future of our food and our planet.
http://www.freshthemovie.com/
http://www.sustainabletucson.org/

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Meeting
07/15 9:30 AM

Sustainable Tucson Food & Agriculture Working Group
7/16 5:30 PM
Woods Memorial Library Tucson,
Regular monthly meeting will focus on action!
Desert Organic Gardening (a video project)
Food and nutrition program for K-12 schools
Data collection for mapping food resources in the Greater Tucson area
The film Food, Inc. at the The Loft in Tucson
07/17
Presented by The Food Conspiracy Co-op, and the Community Food Resource Center of the Community Food Bank.
Opening night event will include an opportunity to meet local farmers and ranchers.  Exhibits from local food advocates including Sustainable Tucson, and a special presentation on local food options in Tucson before the start of the film.
http://www.foodincmovie.com/
http://www.loftcinema.com/
http://www.foodconspiracy.org/
http://communityfoodbank.com/
http://www.sustainabletucson.org/
Free Clothes Exchange
7/18 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
1500 N. Hohokam Drive in the recreation gym, Nogales
Bring your good conditioned outgrown clothes and exchange them.
All sizes: for adults, youth and children.  Public swimming pool will be open.   Jumping Castle and Music.  Contact: Dora Taddey (520) 604-6468 for details

Sustainable Tucson Food Group Tour of the San Xavier Coop Farm
07/18 8:00 AM
8100 S. Oidak Wog
Presentation by farm manager Bill Worthey and a wagon tour of the farm. 
Contact: Judith Mattson, jasmwm@comcast.net
July Wilderness Photography Hike into the Tumacacori Highlands
07/18 9:30 AM
Pena Blanca Campground parking area, http://www.tumacacoriwild.org/monthly_hike.html

Training for Transition
07/18-19
Sonoran Institute Phoenix,
Workshop: Designed to provide a detailed introduction to the skills necessary to successfully set up, develop, and run a Transition project in any locality.  Designed for people who are already in a group that is working to achieve this or who are thinking of creating such a group.  Two people can attend for the price of one: $200
http://transitionarizona.ning.com/events/training-for-transition

CELEBRATE SUSTAINABLE SANTA FE - A People, Planet & Prosperity Phestival
07/18-19
Santa Fe Convention Center NM

http://worldwellness.org/
Tucson Mesquite Pod Harvesting
07/19 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Contact: Laurie Melrood for details, lamidbar@gmail.com  or 520-884-5202
Transition Pima Event
07/19 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Sky Islands High School
201 S. Wilmot, Tucson
TransitionPima@gmail.com

Santa Cruz County Board of Supervisors Meeting
07/22 9:30 AM
Local Foods Dinner
07/22
Maynards Market & Kitchen
400 N. Toole Ave, Tucson
The Santa Cruz Valley Heritage Alliance is partnering with Slow Food Tucson, Hotel Congress and Maynards Market & Kitchen for an evening of gourmet local foods and wine.
http://www.santacruzheritage.org/node/174