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BROUGHT TO YOU BY Part of Xcel Energy’s Lake Wissota hydroelectric system.
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WANT A LOCAL ELECTRIC HOT ROD? EnviroTech makes Lightning Electric Cars for purchase By Jenny Talen Picture this scenario. You’re sitting in the stands at NASCAR, crowds of people are cheering as engines roar and race cars whiz by. The noises are deafening, but the thrill of seeing those shiny hot rods zoom past your vision is intriguing. You think to yourself, “I wonder what it would be like to drive one of those ...” Well folks, this fantasy may not be unreachable. Mark Kalish, President of Enviro Tech in Eau Claire, has come up with an environmental friendly, customized, electric hot rod. Shall I reiterate? A muscle car that doesn’t burn gas, has an approximate 40mile range, and about 1 cent per mile electric cost! Now you might be wondering, how did a business man like Kalish come up with such an idea? After all, Kalish began business in 1994 as a powder coating shop, which is industrial and custom metal finishing process. As the years progressed, Kalish was asked by one of his employees to sponsor some powder coating for the electric car racing team at North Star High School. Kalish agreed and in the process learned about what the kids were doing. At this time, EnviroTech was just starting other cars, so Kalish thought, “Why don’t we try to invent and environmental hot rod symbolic of our company name EnviroTech?”
With further research and time, the more Kalish liked the idea. The first prototype went to Madison two years ago in June and sparked interest. Money was invested and the project kicked off. Flash forward to the present ... drumroll, please! The first production of the Lightning Electric Car is in its final batteries and a motor and a rear axel. stages and is projected for completion There is no transmission. We tried to around the end of September 2011. eliminate as many pieces to make it All that remains – putting on a hood right.” and windshield. Sounds easy enough Kalish hopes that as time passes, right? Not quite. The process began the production will approximately three become faster – six years ago, with many months for the first changes made along few orders, then down the journey. to a mere three months “It’s a different once the process is style of driving. You mastered. step on the gas and As the pieces you get going and then of the puzzle come you let off and just together, Kalish will coast,” Kalish says. rely on web-based “It really changes media, word-of-mouth, the way I drive. I feel Mark Kalish, president on and news articles to like I’m in a covered Enviro Tech, on the showcase his electric wagon like a pioneer, hot rod and it’s many figuring all this stuff Lightning Electric Car perks. For some of you out. There’s a lot of skeptics, the thought of people who have been driving an electric car doing this for a long means compromising time, but not quite in speed and power. Not too worry. Kalish the same way we are doing it. We are promises the hot rod will live up to it’s using a very simple setup with just
It really changes the way I drive. I feel like I’m in a covered wagon like a pioneer, figuring all this stuff out.
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name, going from 0-60 in under five seconds with a top speed of over 100 miles per hour! For others worried about locating plug-ins and finding outlets, take a step back and think about it. Houses, garages, gas stations, and hotels all have outlets. The equipment is there, it just needs to be utilized. Kalish jokes, “It’s free gas!” Last but not least, the Lightning Electric Rod runs for $28,000, but there is a federal tax credit that will allow for a $6,600 tax credit, similar to a rebate. Kalish understands the car isn’t for everyone, but if you’re looking for a cool toy, with the feel of riding in a motorcycle while sitting in a car, this electric hot rod is sure to satisfy. “It’s a good story, it really is,” Kalish says. “It’s homegrown.” Visit LightningElectricCar.com for more information.
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WEIRD recyclables where to go for stuff other than bottles, cans, and paper products Light bulbs May be recycled at the following (some may charge a small fee): • Any Dunn County collection station • Augusta True Value • Best Buy, Eau Claire • Eau Claire Ace Hardware • Parr’s Hardware • Pinehurst Hardware Hank • Sam’s Club • Thompson’s True Value • Gordy’s True Value Batteries Any Wisconsin retailer that sells car batteries is legally obligated to recycle them at no cost. The manufacturing of simple alkaline batteries – the ones found in toys and flashlights – now makes them safe for landfills, so throw them away. Other can go here: • Batteries Plus, Eau Claire • Office Depot, Eau Claire • Radio Shack (London Square Mall, Oakwood Mall, Shopko Plaza) • Sears (Oakwood Mall) • Any Dunn County collection station Computers • Bridge Creek Transfer Station • Comprehensive Recycling (call to make delivery arrangements first, 839-7899) • First Choice Computer Recycling (FREE! Recycles both household and K-12 computers) • One Source Imaging (recycles toner cartridges) • RAM Technologies • Salvation Army (computer must be less than 5 years old and functional) • Cartridge World (refills and recycles toner cartridges) • Any Dunn County transfer site (for a fee) Appliances Air conditioners, washers/dryers, dishwashers, dehumidifiers/humidifiers, freezers, furnace boilers, microwaves, stoves/ovens, refrigerators, and water heaters. Throughout the year, you may bring these to the following locations, but check in advance for disposal fees: • First Choice Recycling (may pick up appliances for additional fee) • Bridge Creek Transfer Station • Comprehensive Recycling (non-freon items) • Max Phillips Scrap Yard • Toy’s Salvage • U-Can Recycling Cell phones Many national chains accept cell phones including: • Alltel, AT&T, Best Buy, FedEx, Kinkos, Office Depot, Office Max, Radio Shack, Sam’s Club, Sprint, Target, T-Mobile, US Cellular, Verizon, and Wal-Mart. • Liberty Tax Service (2945 S Prairie
View Rd Suite 1, Chippewa Falls) also accepts cell phones for soldiers • WirelessFoundation.org: Provides phones with free airtime to victims of domestic violence. • CollectiveGood.com: Refurbishes phones for use in developing countries. • CharitableRecycling.com: Give phones to senior citizens, battered women, and patients awaiting organ transplants. Paint Once old paint has dried, it can be disposed of at any of the Dunn County Transfer Stations. Oil-based paints, varnish, or paint thinners are considered hazardous waste and need to be disposed of at hazardous waste collections. • Local high school and community theaters may take extra paint on an as-needed basis. Contact the individual organization for more information. • For immediate disposal of your materials for a fee: WRR Environmental Services, 5200 State Road 93, Eau Claire – for Eau Claire residents only Propane Tanks • River County Co-Op (Cenex Gas Station; 723-2828) in Chippewa Falls, 1080 W. River St., accepts 20-pound tanks at no charge. • Thaler Oil Company (310 S. Main St., Chippewa Falls 723-2822) accept 5-, 10-, 20-, 30-, and 40-pound tanks, and may even give you some money for them. • Max Phillips & Sons and Toy’s Salvage will accept empty 20-pound propane tanks if the valves are removed (requires a special tool) • 1 lb. canisters can be recycled at scrap yards, but they MUST be properly vented first. The Coleman Company sells a venting “green key” for their canisters online. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors Most smoke detectors contain small amounts of radioactive materials that can be harmful if broken in a landfill. The companies First Alert (1-800-323-9005) and American Sensors (1-800-387-4219) will dispose of them for a small fee. • Carbon monoxide detectors are not hazardous, but they do contain recyclable materials. First Choice Computer Recycling (1125 Starr Ave, Eau Claire, 833-2005) accepts them for a nominal fee. Medications Unused, unwanted, or expired medications in any form can be recycled here: • Altoona Police Dept (1904 Spooner Ave) • Augusta Police Dept (145 W. Lincoln St) • Fall Creek Police Department (122 E. Lincoln Ave) • Eau Claire County Sheriff’s Department (721 Oxford Ave, Room 1428) • Dunn County Sheriff’s Dept (615 Stokke Parkway, Menomonie)
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A PARTY ENVIRONMENT reducing plastic and disposables for summer parties and get-togethers By Tiffany Coggins It is not as difficult as it may seem to reduce a wasteful carbon footprint, especially when it comes to disposables associated with summer parties and festivals. By now all of you own reusable bags and water bottles, right? Of course you do. If you don’t, then prepare for a quick shopping trip. I swear it will be painless. We cannot reduce our wasteful use if we do not have the necessary tools. Everyone should have these basics on hand to throw into a car or carry on the bus or bike at a moment’s notice. It only takes a few more seconds to grab your stash of reusable bags and a water bottle. Let’s start with the reusable bags. I admit it did take me longer than it should have to get on board with these. I just couldn’t take the old stand-by of cumbersome cotton canvas bags. Then one day a dear friend gave me my first compact, reusable bag that stuffed into its own pouch. I was hooked! I always have these bags in my car and purse. There are many companies making them, and they are available all around the Chippewa Valley as well. They come in a kaleidoscope of colors, and materials including recycled PET plastic, recycled cotton, organic cotton, nylon, and hemp. The other noteworthy item is the reusable water bottle. Now, I prefer the stainless steel variety, but you do have other choices such as glass, aluminum, and BPA-free plastics. A remarkably handy bottle is made of nylon, and can
fold up to slip into your pocket, purse, or backpack when it’s empty. Our family likes this one for travel and hiking. It is exceptionally light and seems perfect for summer festivals. Those are the basics; from there you can find a whole array of products to replace your disposables. It does take thought and an initial investment, but the payoff is worth it. Do you know about reusable stainless steel and glass straws? Stainless
Reusing is even more eco-friendly than recycling. It takes almost no energy to wash out a container compared to the energy it takes to recycle it ... or processing a virgin material.
steel straws come straight or with a bend like a bendy straw. Glass straws come plain or decorated with colored glass dots. Kids go crazy over both. Using reusable containers cuts down on a lot of waste. I have been using stainless steel containers with silicone seals. Another reusable is Pyrex, but
it is much heavier than stainless steel. There are also replacements for plastic bags in your picnic lunch. Many brands of reusable sandwich and snack bags are out there in a variety of colors and patterns. Reuse jars for sauces and other liquids. Reusing is even more ecofriendly than recycling. It takes almost no energy to wash out a container compared to the energy it takes to recycle it. That said, recycling still saves a boatload of energy compared to mining and processing a virgin material. As always, buying organic, local food reduces waste and energy use. It is a much shorter trip (hence less fuel burned) from a local farm to the farmers market or nearby store. Buying organic also uses less petroleum because most fertilizers and pesticides/herbicides are petroleum-based. We can now find local, organic foods in many grocery stores, in the Chippewa Valley. Replace paper or plastic disposable
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plates and cups with melamine, enamelware, stainless, or reusable bamboo versions. I have also found funky, new, revamped sporks – a vast improvement on the old version. In a pinch, there are compostable disposables, too. Look for fabric remnants, flat sheets, or second-hand table clothes to replace plastic disposable tablecloths. Using napkins made out of remnants is a more festive and colorful to wipe your mouth than dull, wasteful paper napkins. Never forget about second-hand resources for picnic/party items. Goodwill, Salvation Army, Savers, and garage sales can be a bountiful boon for these items, and you can save green while being green. Cliché, but true. At the end of your fabulous event, make sure you recycle whatever you can. If the event does not have recycling, complain and take your recyclables with you. It is the least we can all do to save and conserve.
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RIGHT AS rain GARDENS what they can do and why you should do it I’ve spent many summers working in gardens, tending to vegetable plants and my mother’s flowers. But until recently, I had never heard of a rain garden. So I decided to look them up. Turns out, these things are pretty cool. Not only do they look great in your yard, but they do some good. So why make one? After doing a little research, I found that they are basically a natural way for us to protect our water resources. When rain and snow runs off our roofs, driveways, and lawns, it flows straight onto our roads, down storm drains, and into our lakes and rivers. Things like oil, pesticides, salt, transportation chemicals, and fertilizer travel with the runoff into our water supply. The runoff can also be warm water, which holds less oxygen than the cooler water that comes from the ground.
By Lauren Schara
Creatures, like trout, cannot survive fluctuating water temperatures. Also, runoff does not get released into the water slow and steady like ground water, so when you have large amounts of it rushing into the rivers or streams, it can cause erosion, flooding, dams formed by debris, and changes in the water’s ecosystem. Using a rain garden allows you to help make sure that the rush of water from runoff will slow down and hold the water for a while and eventually allow it to naturally infiltrate the ground. So how do you go about creating a rain garden? Well, you don’t need a lot of space to do this and you can put them in odd-shaped areas. Below are nine easy steps to create your own rain garden, and for more information feel free to visit RainGardenNetwork.org or RainGardens.org. LAUREN SCHARA
A UWEC rain garden near Haas Fine Arts on Water Street 1. Find a Location: Place it 10 feet away from your buildings to prevent flooding. Try doing it in a natural low spot in your yard or where your downspouts or sump pump outlet can be used in order to direct the rainwater into your garden. Make sure that the location gets full or partial sunlight. 2. Measure: If you are creating the garden in a low spot, you do not need to measure the drainage area, just make sure it is a place where water runs during a storm. If you’re capturing water from your roof or other hard surfaces, then you need to measure the drainage area of that surface and multiply it by the number associated with the type of soil you have. Sandy soil: 20%, Loam: 30-35%, and Clay: 45-60%. These numbers will ensure that the garden holds as much water as possible. 3. Design: Try creating a design on paper to make sure that you have the best appearance for your garden.
4. Choose Your Plants: Use native plants like flowers and grasses that will grow in wet and dry areas. 5. Lay Out and Dig: Lay out the shape and boundaries. Then start digging by removing the turf. Dig four to eight inches deep. Use the soil to build a berm around the garden’s edges if necessary. 6. Prepare Soil: Put in two to three inches of compost and mix it in with the soil. 7. Plant: Place your plants where you want them to be and if you are happy with how it looks, dig away. The plants should be one foot apart. 8. Mulch: Use coarse, fibrous, shredded woodchips that won’t float or blow away. Put two to three inches worth of mulch down in order to help keep the moisture in and the weeds out. 9. Water: After you’re done planting, water the garden every other day for two weeks if it does not rain until the garden looks like it’s growing on its own. Watering and maintenance is key.
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LOCAL BUSINESSES TRYING TO BE GREEN a few area businesses doing something to be more environmentally conscious
Waterpark
CHAOS WATER PARK As summer heats up and the daily temperature climbs toward 90 degrees, cooling off in the water sounds better and better. Since baking in the sun isn’t for everyone, Eau Claire has an indoor option: Chaos Waterpark. But no one is thrilled about that salty chlorine smell that often hovers around an indoor pool, so Chaos is developing a few green solutions. The park has been increasing its green efforts by using regenerative filters and a water cleaning system that purifies its water seven times above the average waterpark, while still reducing the amount of water used. Now the park has recently decided to start using sphagnum moss. The moss, which grows in New Zealand, is shipped overseas and placed in waterproof tubes that are used in Chaos’ water filter system. This allows the park to use less than half of
the chemicals it did before in order to keep its water clean. The product has been used in other pools and on golf courses before, and it is has proved an effective way to keep the water clean. Chaos Waterpark has been using the moss for the past four months in an extended trial period. If it works well, the moss could be used in many of Wisconsin’s waterparks. For now, you can breathe a little easier and relax a little longer at Chaos. – LS
Toiletries
JUST SPECIALTY PRODUCTS It’s hard to stay clean and green these days. Even when you can find earthfriendly body washes or shampoos, it’s often too expensive for the average budget. Now there’s a local option: chemist Julie Weghorn of Menomonie has perfected an all-natural line of cleansers, including soaps, hand sani-
tizers, and bath products to clean you up without cleaning you out. Based out of Menomonie, Weghorn handcrafts every product from high-quality natural materials. Every ingredient is sustainably sourced and biodegradable. And with scents that range from Yuzu Grapefruit to Rich Dark Chocolate, you can see why customers keep coming back. Most products are available on Etsy or you can visit their website at TrustJust. com (they’re also available at a few Menomonie shops). Perhaps the best deal of all: save money, and save the planet. – KH
Manufacturing
BUSH BROTHERS & CO. The Bush Brothers facility in Augusta has thought of nearly everything when it comes to being an earth-friendly business. When the decision was made to add a new office, the owners saw a unique opportunity to cut costs while also maximizing energy efficiency. The basic idea
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was that the existing facilities generate large amounts of excess heat during their baked beans manufacturing processes, and by transferring it over to the new addition, the need for traditional heat during the winter would be eliminated. Snow would also be melted on the walkways around the building using any warmth left over. Aside from that, the facility is engineered with enough windows to almost eliminate the need for electric lighting during daylight hours. The new addition uses around one-third to one-half of the electricity it would without the modifications, and won the 2006 Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Leadership Award for the innovative “heat recovery” program. Now that (pardon the pun) makes for some “green” beans. – BB
GO green ANDREA PAULSETH
Lodging
Interior Design
OTTER CREEK INN
DEPARTMENT OF INTERIORS
We all need to get away sometimes, whether it’s from the job, the kids, or studies. It’s hard to find green travel options, but there’s a local inn that can save you money and save the planet. Otter Creek Inn is one of the longest operating bed and breakfasts in Wisconsin and one of the most green. Shelley Hanson, coowner, says that the inn uses mostly local produce and cheese in their breakfasts, as well as other local food within health guidelines. The six-bedroom inn also has recycling and linen reuse programs. “If our guests are staying over more than one night, we give them the option of reusing their linens and towels. About 60 percent of our guests will take the option,” Hanson says. The owners also collect stormwater runoff for outdoor use, like watering plants on the property. The inn was certified by Travel Green Wisconsin just over a year ago, but Hanson won’t stop here. She and her husband Dave are currently trying to change the types of cleaning products they use in their rooms to safer, greener brands. This getaway is relaxation-certified and earth-approved. – LS
Green homes are definitely in, and designers are quickly adapting to the market. But local business Department of Interiors sets itself apart. The company specializes in cost-effective green design, and they also offer green products for home installation. Bonnie Feltz, founder and CEO, says these products have included wallcoverings with recycled content and natural fibers, countertops made from recycled products, cabinets made of locally harvested wood, and furniture with safe lumber and soybased cushions. DOI also offers LED light options, in anything from chandeliers to floor lighting. And these products won’t break the bank. “The best part is that they’re readily accessible and available at standard prices,” she said. DOI is also committed to giving back to the community, as Feltz speaks to organizations about design ethics and sustainability and donates to community groups. “Department of Interiors puts the planet first, as do our clients,” Feltz said. Mother Nature will be happy to hear that. – KH
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CLEAN
green
Air Fresheners To absorb odors, place 2 to 4 tbsp. baking soda or vinegar in small bowls in the refrigerator and around the house, and pour ½ cup baking soda in the bottom of trash cans. Fresh coffee grounds in a bowl can also clear unwanted odor.
substitute noxious chemicals with homemade concoctions By Kaitlyn Heisick
Glass Cleaner Regular club soda! OR 2 tsp. vinegar mixed with 1 quart water. Rub with newspaper to prevent streaking. Oven Cleaner Sprinkle water inside oven, then add baking soda. Let sit overnight and scour with plastic sponge.
Cleaning can be painful. Literally. Many common household cleaning products contain at least one of hundreds of chemicals that can damage both our earth and our bodies. If you’re seeking healthy alternatives, you’ve come to the right place. Here’s a brief list of some non-toxic cleaners you can make with products already in your cupboards. More recipes and information can be found at the websites listed below. Captain Planet would approve.
Wood (Unpainted) Cleaner Dissolve 3 tablespoons of baking soda and 1 cup of white vinegar in 3 gallons of warm water. After mopping, wipe dry. For water rings on wood surfaces, try rubbing gently with toothpaste or mayonnaise and buff dry. Silver Polish Line your sink or a bucket with aluminum foil, and drop in tarnished silver. Pour in boiling water, a cup of baking soda and a dash of salt. Let sit for a few minutes. The tarnish will transfer from the silver to the foil.
All-Purpose Cleaner Mix ½ cup vinegar and ¼ cup baking soda (or 2 teaspoons borax) into ½ gallon (2 liters) water. Store and keep. Use for removal of water deposit stains on shower stall panels, bathroom chrome fixtures, windows, bathroom mirrors, etc. TIP: Make sure you test the vinegar solution on small areas first. If it’s not properly diluted, vinegar could damage certain surfaces . Copper Polish Try rubbing your copper pots, pans, and kitchen accents with ketchup. The acidity will help scrape away unwanted deposits. Drain Cleaner Pour ¼ c baking soda down the drain, followed by ½ c. vinegar. Cover drain and let sit for 15 minutes. Follow with 2 quarts boiling water.
Tub and Tile Cleaner For simple cleaning, rub in baking soda with a damp sponge and rinse with fresh water. For tougher jobs, wipe surfaces with vinegar first and follow with baking soda as a scouring powder. TIP: Use the vinegar very carefully, as it can break down some types of grout. Want More? Check out these websites for recipes: • TheDailyGreen.com/green-homes/latest/green-cleaning-spring-cleaning-460303 • EcoCycle.org/hazwaste/recipes.cfm • EarthEasy.com/live nontoxic_solutions.htm • DebrasList.com
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GREEN BUYING POWER tips from GreenAmerica.org and GreenerChoices.org Rayon: The world’s first synthetic fiber made from liquefied wood pulp. Turning wood into rayon is wasteful and dirty due to the fact that a lot of water and chemicals are needed in order to extract usable fibers from the wood. There is evidence suggesting that rayon clothing manufacturing contributes to deforestation and pollution in the countries we get our rayon from. Fabrics that have rayon usually require the owner to have them dry cleaned, which is an environmental concern as well as an added expense and inconvenience. Bleached Coffee Filters: Dioxins, which are chemicals created during the chlorine bleaching process, contaminate groundwater and the air. The chemical is also linked to cancer in both humans and animals. There are a few alternative options to these types of filters though. One is that you buy unbleached paper filters or you can use washable cloth filters. Toys Made with PVC Plastic: Although PVC is most commonly used in construction, it is also in everyday plastics, including some children’s toys. PVC ingredients include vinyl chloride, a cancer-causing chemical, as well as lead and cadmium used to help prevent PVC from breaking down. PVC is also the least recycled plastic. The best way to avoid PVC plastic toys is not buy ones that are labeled “PVC” or “#3.” Look for “#1” and “#2” plastics instead, which are easier to recycle and do not create as many toxins. High VOC Paints and Finishes: VOCs or volatile organic compounds may cause health problems such as dizziness, lung and kidney damage, and are known for polluting air. VOCs are found in paints and finishes for wood such as stains and varnishes. However, you can avoid VOCs
by buying low or no-VOC paints. Just look for paints certified by Green Seal to avoid high VOC. You can go to GreenSeal.org to find such paints. Candles or Air Fresheners: Using these can add chemicals to your home. According to National Candle Association, most have natural and synthetic fragrances. The synthetics might give off hormone-disrupting phthalates, a chemical with estrogenic properties. Candles and air fresheners can also give off VOCs. Another concern is if you still own old candles, ones made prior to 2003. These might have toxic lead-core wicks, which were once very common, but are now banned. Many candle makers are now using natural and renewable ingredients such as soy and beeswax instead of paraffin, a nonrenewable resource. However, if you want to be on the safe side, instead of using candles and air fresheners, there are several things that you can do. One is simmer a pot of water with a cinnamon stick, and/or orange peels. Another one is to stick cloves into an orange and leave it out to dry. You can also put rosemary, thyme, or sage on a windowsill or fill a bowl with some balsam fir needles. You can also use a common household item: a box of baking soda.
30 GREENEST VEHICLES according to JD Power & Associates Chevrolet Aveo Chevrolet Aveo5 Chevrolet Cobalt Ford Escape Hybrid Ford Focus Honda Civic Honda Civic Hybrid Honda Fit Hyundai Accent Hyundai Elantra Kia Rio Kia Spectra Lexus RX 400h Mercury Mariner Hybrid Mini Cooper
Mini Cooper S Nissan Altima Hybrid Nissan Sentra Nissan Versa Pontiac G5 Pontiac Vibe Saturn Astra Smart Fortwo Convertible Smart Fortwo Coupe Toyota Camry Hybrid Toyota Corolla Toyota Hylander Hybrid Toyota Matrix Toyota Prius Toyota Yaris VolumeOne.org 37 July 21, 2011
THE GREENEST YOU CAN BE! Of course, this list is only about personal vehicles, and doesn’t include the most environmentally friendly transportation options. That would be carpooling, taking public transit (bus, train, rail, etc.), biking, or walking.
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green LISTINGS LOCAL BUILDERS/ CONTRACTORS AgOilPress - Cold Press Oil Extractors 3839 W Folsom
St., Eau Claire • (877) 645-7737 • sales@agoilpress. com • www.agoilpress.com Our oil presses are ideal for anyone who desires to produce their own plant based oils for bio-fuels, culinary arts cooking or direct consumption. Extracts oil from: soybeans, sunflower seed, canola seed, sesame seed, ground-nuts, poppyseed, inseed, flaxseed, peanut, mustard seed, cotton seed, and more! Produces 80-110 gal./acre (with sunflower or canola).
Badger State Inc. 2507 Fortune Drive, Eau Claire
• (715) 874-7777 • info@badgerstateinc.com This plumbing and heating contractor now offers residential and commercial solar water heating.
Bubbling Springs Solar 408 Red Cedar Street #5,
Menomonie • (715) 231-1885 • bss@wwt.net • www.bubblingspringssolar.com This family owned Menomonie business offers solar thermal collectors for hot water.
Chippewa Valley Alternative Energy (866) 460-8656 •
info@startsomewhere.co • www.cvalte.com Dedicated to lowering heating costs using solar thermal, waste oil heaters, and biomass pellets. CVAE services include Solar PV sales, design, accessories and installation, solar site assessments; used-oil heater parts, repair, troubleshooting, rebuilds and accessories; pellet mill sales, accessories and more.
Energy Concepts 2349 Willis Miller Dr., Hudson •
(715) 381-9977 • energyconcepts.us Energy Concepts
The following programs, groups, and contractors are not the only ones in existence, but merely act as examples of resources available to wannabe greenies.
provides turn-key commercial and residential solutions for all your renewable energy project needs—including wind, solar and high-efficiency Garn wood-burning boilers.
Heritage Builders N6160 370th St., Menomonie • (715) 235-7910 • www.heritagebuildersmenomonie.com This home repair, remodel, and builder from Menomonie is dedicated to making homes more energy efficient. They also do drywall art.
GREEN PROGRAM
ENERGY SERVICE CORPS
new program offers free energy assessments for Eau Claire
Jim Erdman (715) 235-8941 • jiminwis@yahoo.com A certified site assessor, Jim will survey your property to find out if wind or solar energy systems could work. MEP Associates 2720 Arbor Court, Eau Claire • (715) 832-5680 • www.mepassociates.com This consulting firm specializes in designing mechanical, electrical, plumbing, medical gas, and geothermal systems. Next Step Energy Systems 124 1/2 Graham Ave., Eau
Claire • (715) 830-9337 • info@nextstepenergy.com • www.nextstepenergy.com Specializes in designing and installing radiant heating and renewable energy applications such as solar and wind applications.
Red Cedar Solar (715) 379-6315 • Certified solar site
assessments.
SDS Architects 205 N. Dewey Street, Eau Claire • (715)
832-1605 • info@sdsarch.com • www.sdsarch.com This LEED-certified architectural firm specializes in higher education, K-12 education, industrial, commercial, community, religious, health care, and government projects, while focusing on energy conservation and sustainable design.
Water Source Heating & Cooling 3650 Greenway Street, Eau Claire • (715) 833-9001 • www.watersourcegeothermal.com Providing geothermal heating and cooling systems to the Eau Claire area.
Do you leave lights on while your gone? Take hour-long showers? Never clean the lint trap in your dryer? Yes, most of us don’t pay attention to these small details around the house, but not doing so is throwing money away through the added energy costs. One of the great ideas to travel to the Eau Claire area is the Energy Service Corps, which have been performing free energy assessments in the Chippewa Valley for years. So what the heck is an energy assessment? It is where mobilized college students travel to communities that can benefit from energy initiatives. These students not only provide education about energy reduction, but also give a personal assessment of homes and other various weatherization services. This service is a joint project with the Wisconsin Public Interest Research Group Foundation and the AmeriCorps. So what’s the point of all this? On July 7 the Energy Service Corps will travel to Bolton Refuge House, our local center for victims of domestic abuse. The Energy Service Corps will be making recommendations and updates to the shelter in hopes of reducing financial strain. This will be the first in a summer-long launch into providing free assessments to residents. The Energy Service Corps will focus on energy savers and wasters at the refuge, and hopes to acquire donations for energy efficient light bulbs and power strips to reduce electricity use. This means that you can have a free assessment of your home in the upcoming summer months, as well. If you would like to snag this assessment for yourself or want to learn more about the Energy Service Corps get on the web and visit EnergyServiceCorps.org or call (920) 918-7942. – Lauryn Seering
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GO green GREEN GROUPS
Chippewa Valley Alternative Energy downtown Chippewa Falls, Chippewa Falls • 866-460-8656 • slrobinson@clearwire.net This organization meets bi-monthly to discuss environmental topics with invited speakers as well as touring a variety of renewable energy sites and conferences. Chippewa Valley Master Gardeners Association 8394712 • Erin.lafaive@ces.uwex.edu • eauclairemastergardeners.com The goal of this organization is to promote environmental stewardship in collaboration with UW Extension by developing an appreciation for and understanding of horticultural practices for all Master Gardeners and residents of the Chippewa Valley. Chippewa Valley Sustainable Energy Association contact@tyronecoal.com • www.tyronecoal.com This group concentrates its message on alternatives to fos-
sil fuels in an effort to wean our society and economy specifically away from coal.
Eau Claire Area Master Gardeners 839-4712 • Erin.
lafaive@ces.uwex.edu • eauclairemastergardeners.com This UW Extension volunteer group provides horticultural education, community service and environmental stewardship. The Eau Claire Master Gardeners community invites you to join its efforts to educate and beautify the area. They organize several events, seminars, plant sales, garden tours and we manage public gardens for all to experience.
Food Not Lawns – The Phoenix Garden thephoenix-
garden@gmail.com • thephoenixgarden.blogspot.com Food Not Lawns is an international collective of gardeners, food activists, community organizers and educators whose goal is to transform unused urban space into sustainable food sources for the community. “The Phoenix Garden” is the name dubbed to the growing Eau Claire chapter.
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Foodlums foodlums.blogspot.com • foodlums@gmail.
com The Foodlums make up UWEC’s new academic and social organization serving both the university and the broader Eau Claire community. The organization sponsors events such as public lectures, creates service learning opportunities for Eau Claire and beyond and raises awareness of sustainable, local and delicious foods. Public meetings are every Friday, 3pm at UWEC’s Phillips Science Hall room 119.
Green Drinks 835-4248 • greendrinks.org A social op-
portunity for people to relax and talk with other likeminded environmentalists about ideas, events, and issues around our community. Resuming in September, Green Drinks meets every 3rd Wednesday, 5-6:30pm at Harmony Cafe (210 S. Barstow, Eau Claire).
JONAH: Joining Our Neighbors, Advancing Hope 8360010 • rev94doc01@centurytel.net • jonah.wisdomwi. org This inter-congregational organization focuses on a variety of issues such as the environment, econom-
GO green ics, and incarceration treatment alternatives. JONAH is part of WISDOM, a member of the Gamaliel Foundation which is a grassroots network of non-partisan, faith-based organizations to empower ordinary people to participate in the political, environmental, social and economic decisions affecting their lives.
Sierra Club - Chippewa Valley Group 235-9771 • wisconsin.sierraclub.org This is a local chapter of the international environmental group based in San Francisco. Programs vary from slide presentations of trips to talks about environmental issues and suggestions of actions members could take. Monthly meetings take place at 7:30pm, first Wednesdays, October through May in schools/restaurants in Eau Claire. Sustainable Dunn lindawalsh45@hotmail.com • www.
About 45 small businesses in Dunn County have had audits. The small business program operates on a threeyear cycle, so customers have until 2012 to get the audit, make improvements, and get matching incentives of up to $5,000 from Xcel Energy and Focus on Energy. In addition to Dunn County, the program continues through 2011 in Eau Claire County.
EVENTS Eau Claire County Clean Sweep July 9, Sept. 10, and
Nov. 12 • WRR Environmental Services, 5200 Ryder Road • 9am-1pm • FREE for county residents (proof necessary) • 839-6190 • www.co.eau-claire.wi.us • Accept for free: pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, fertilizers, solvents, old fuels, cleaners, oil paint, varnish, lacquers, shellac, paint thinner, roof tar, nail polish remover, lye, polishes, air fresheners, drain cleaners, re li stin and motor oil. Accept for a fee: latex Sustainable Eau Claire 835-1733 • a g n s paint, fluorescent lamps, anti-freeze, d co sustainableeauclaire.org This group nten aersosol cans, dry cell batteries. Not works to promote energy conservaVolu t at accepted: biological and infectious tion, green building, water consermeO wastes, lead acid batteries, radioacvation, and initiatives to make Eau ne. tive materials, pressurized cylinders, Claire a more sustainable community. Gree org/ explosive and shock sensitive materin The UWEC Conservationists uwec. als, commercial/industrial/institutional/ edu/conserve • SMITHK@uwec.edu, agricultural wastes. raventycho@gmail.com The purpose of Greater Eau Claire and Mondovi SustainThe Conservationists is to strengthen ecoability Network Jul. 23, 1:30-4:30pm • Otlogical awareness and environmental ethics in the ter Creek Valley Farm, 7380 US Hwy 53, Eau Claire community and campus. The primary goal is to work • FREE • 563-7110 • Grilling with herbs demo and with the community and university in restoration, concook out. Bring your own chicken, beef, venison, fish servation, and management efforts. This group is also and vegetables to grill and paper dishes and silverware. on Facebook. Grilling demos begin at 1:30pm with Sustainability Wisconsin Green Building Alliance 414-224-9422 • meeting to follow and a grill out with your marinated info@wgba.org • www.wgba.org This organization’s foods for the pot luck. Free and open to all ages. mission is to promote ecologically sustainable developNorthwest Wisconsin Sustainable Living Fair Usually ment practices and provides resources such as an annual in July • Rusk County Fairgrounds, Ladysmith • FREE conference, educational forums and site visits to demonadmission, $3 parking • 322-4349 • www.nwwisustainstration projects. ablelivingfair.com Over 40 speakers on topics such as Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters - Eau Claire solar and wind power, green construction, local food, 835-4248 • info@conservationvoters.org • www.consergeothermal heating, recycling, and how your neighbors vationvoters.org A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization are putting these ideas into practice. dedicated to electing conservation leaders, holding deciDunn County Hazardous Waste Collection Sept. 14 sion makers accountable and encouraging lawmakers to at Colfax Fairgrounds (4-6pm) and Sept. 15 at Dunn champion conservation policies that effectively protect County Transfer Station (3-4pm businesses, 4-7pm Wisconsin’s public health and natural resources. households) • 232-4017 • Accepted for free: glue, pool chemicals, oil based paints, turpentine, lacquer, stripper, various cleaners, thinner, varnish, antifreeze, brake fluid, transmission fluid, fuels, air freshener, thermostats, floor polish, nail polish remover, furniture polish, toilet cleaner, lye, batteries (lithium and mercuric oxide), mildew cleaner, window cleaner, moth balls, mercury thermomEnergy Service Corps energyservicecorps.org • feeter, silver polish, insect repellent, insecticide, arsenic, neislm@gmail.com The Eau Claire chapter of Energy kepone, chlordane, penta, DDT, pesticide, fertilizer, poiService Corps’ mission is to educate the community on son, fungicide, rodent bait, silvex, snail and slug bait. ways they can increase the energy efficiency of their Accepted for a fee: latex paint. All businesses must prehomes and save money on monthly bills. Two Energy register before Sept. 9 for both dates and should have a Service Corps members will arrive at your house at a list of materials that they wish to dispose of. scheduled time to look at how energy is being used and recommend ways to make your home more efficient. Agricultural Clean Sweep Sept. 29 • Northern WI State Takes 30-60 mins. Fairgrounds • 10:30am-1pm • FREE for county residents • 726-7999 • Accepted for free: pesticides, insecEnergy Audits www.xcelenergy.com Xcel Energy offers ticides, wood treatments, veterinary items, lead-based a Community Conservation Program in which small paint, solvents, corrosives, poisons, and mercury. Prebusinesses and area residents can to check heating, air registration required. conditioning, lighting, windows, doors, and air filtration for energy efficiency. The audits usually cost $300, but Chippewa County Clean Sweep Oct. 1 • Northern WI are for a limited time $45, and the inspections are done State Fairgrounds • 8am-noon • FREE for county resiby Focus on Energy professionals. It is for those in Dunn dents • 726-7999 • Accepted for free: oil/solvent-based County and Eau Claire County (but not the city of EC). paints, heavy metal paints, antifreeze, pesticides, corrosives, solvents, wood preservatives, poisons, waste motor oil, cleaners, fuel mixtures, kerosene, fuel oil, household batteries, lead acid batteries, thinners, strippers, stains, varnish, aerosol cans, mercury, scrap metal. Accept for a fee: fluorescent bulbs and oil filters
sustainabledunn.org This grassroots organization is devoted to promoting decisions that meet the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future generations. Monthly programs are held covering a variety of sustainability topics. Its website includes “green” news, a discussion group, and loads of useful links. Mo
PROGRAMS
Synergy Conference Usually in October • 232-5270
meansm@uwstout.edu • www.thesynergyconference. com The Synergy Conference aligns stakeholders who seek to build sustainable economic growth through a collaborative approach. The annual conference has become the culminating platform that supports regional dialogue pertinent to the issues, opportunities and needs facing West Central Wisconsin.
UW-Eau Claire Sustainability Days Usually in October
• UWEC campus • 715-836-5589 • piercech@uwec.edu • www.campussustainability.info Every year, campus organizations such as Foodlums and Hobnailers head up displays, speakers, recycling programs, cleanups, and bike tune-ups to raise awareness of environmental sustainability on campus.
Recyclable Art Competition Usually in November • Student Memorial Center, UW-Stout • 5:30-9pm • all ages • uwstout.edu/sustainability People of all ages residing in Dunn County are invited to take part in this competition of artwork made entirely of recyclable materials held in honor of America Recycles Day. VolumeOne.org 40 July 21, 2011
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