Archive for September 2, 2009
Let’s Keep An Eye On The Science, Shall We?
Note: John Weckerle is a licensed professional geologist and has been at work in environmental consulting for 22 years.
by John Weckerle
In the August 27 of the Mountain View Telegraph, local climate contrarian Ken Johnson – now billing himself as a retired professor, although of what and from whence remains a mystery – renews his attempt to convince us all that climate change is a farce. In this particular case, Mr. Johnson uses a simplistic discussion of the reaction products of hydrocarbon combustion and a flawed description of carbon sequestration as a result of geologic processes.
Your editor – and others – have sparred with Mr. Johnson before. In a 2008 response to one of Mr. Johnson’s letters, I pointed out that Mr. Johnson was using, as the basis of his argument, the thoroughly discredited “Oregon Petition Project (While Mr. Johnson appears to know better than to use this reference to support his case in letters to the Telegraph, he still uses it elsewhere, most recently in a June 11 letter to the Santa Fe New Mexican). »» Let’s Keep An Eye On The Science, Shall We?
Rep. Heinrich To Hold Office Hours At Edgewood Library
by John Weckerle
First District U.S. Representative Martin Heinrich will will hold office hours tomorrow, Thursday, September 3 from noon to 1 p.m. at the Edgewood Library, 95 Highway 344 North. For more information, contact the Congressman’s office at 346-6781.
Permaculture Gathering In Edgewood
by John Weckerle
On October 3, 2009, beginning at noon, Dr. Christian Meuli will host the free annual permaculture gathering in Edgewood. Permaculture, the art and science of creating human environments based on an understanding of ecological relationships, uses a systems approach to create environmentally sustainable settings that provide a positive experience for those who live in them – human and otherwise. The effective use of resources – for example, soil, water, sunlight, and organic matter – are key elements of permaculture, as is the effective incorporation of topography. Dr. Meuli, known locally as the chairman of Edgewood’s Parks and Recreation Committee, is one of the area’s foremost experts on and advocates for permaculture, and has used permaculture principles to create a sustainable and rewarding environment at his home.
The program will include a site tour, potluck, and presentations. Tom Smylie, a raptor expert who has worked with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Peregrine Fund and also conducts free-flight falcon shows and raptor courses at Wildlife West Nature Park, will discuss Birds In Our Lives. Water artist and Keepers of the Waters Director Betsy Damon will give a presentation on “Living Water.” For more information, see the event flier or contact Dr. Meuli at (505) 281-4871.