Volume One ’s guide to making like a tree, and going green. Editor: Trevor Kupfer • Listings: Tyler Griggs Writers: Kaitlyn Heisick, Lauren Schara, Lauryn Seering, Jenny Talen, Brett Bachman, and Tiffany Coggins Design: Brian Moen & Josh Smeltzer Photography: Andrea Paulseth BROUGHT TO YOU BY It’s hard to believe this is already the fourth edition of our annual green section. It wasn’t so long ago when we first noticed “green is the new black; seriously, it’s everywhere.” Now green is beyond everywhere. It’s even in places it doesn’t belong. Basically everyone is calling themselves green these days – even those short-sighted folks who saw green as “some hippie fad” have now seen an opportunity to capitalize. But rest assured, our annual guide will separate the phonies and give it to you straight. This section has more of what has always made the section special, from everyday ideas for going green and a profile of locals who have taken extraordinary measures, to what businesses are doing to be more sustainable and listings of local groups and contractors. Part of Xcel Energy’s Lake Wissota hydroelectric system.
Transcript
Volume One’s guide to making like a tree, and going green.
“green is the new black; seriously, it’s everywhere.”
Now green is beyond everywhere. It’s even in places
it doesn’t belong. Basically everyone is calling themselves
green these days – even those short-sighted folks who saw
green as “some hippie fad” have now seen an opportunity
to capitalize. But rest assured, our annual guide will
separate the phonies and give it to you straight. This
section has more of what has always made the section
special, from everyday ideas for going green and a
profile of locals who have taken extraordinary
measures, to what businesses are doing to be
more sustainable and listings of local
groups and contractors.
Part of Xcel Energy’s Lake Wissota hydroelectric system.
EnviroTech makes Lightning Electric Cars for purchaseBy Jenny Talen
WANT A LOCAL ELECTRIC HOT ROD?
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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 40-mile 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 stages and is projected for completion around the end of September 2011. All that remains – putting on a hood and windshield. Sounds easy enough right? Not quite. The process began approximately three years ago, with many changes made along the journey.
“It’s a different style of driving. You step on the gas and you get going and then you let off and just coast,” Kalish says. “It really changes the way I drive. I feel like I’m in a covered wagon like a pioneer, figuring all this stuff out. There’s a lot of people who have been doing this for a long time, but not quite in the same way we are doing it. We are using a very simple setup with just
batteries and a motor and a rear axel. There is no transmission. We tried to eliminate as many pieces to make it right.”
Kalish hopes that as time passes, the production will become faster – six months for the first few orders, then down to a mere three months once the process is mastered.
As the pieces of the puzzle come together, Kalish will rely on web-based media, word-of-mouth, and news articles to showcase his electric hot rod and it’s many perks. For some of you skeptics, the thought of driving an electric car means compromising
speed and power. Not too worry. Kalish promises the hot rod will live up to it’s
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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It really changes the way I drive. I feel like I’m in
a covered wagon like a pioneer, figuring all
this stuff out.
Mark Kalish, president on Enviro Tech, on the
Lightning Electric Car
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Light bulbsMay 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 BatteriesAny Wisconsin retailer that sells car bat-teries 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) AppliancesAir conditioners, washers/dryers, dish-washers, 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 phonesMany 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. PaintOnce old paint has dried, it can be dis-posed of at any of the Dunn County Transfer Stations. Oil-based paints, var-nish, or paint thinners are considered hazardous waste and need to be disposed of at hazardous waste collections.• Local high school and community the-aters may take extra paint on an as-need-ed basis. Contact the individual organiza-tion for more information.• For immediate disposal of your mate-rials 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 vent-ing “green key” for their canisters online.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide DetectorsMost 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 recy-clable materials. First Choice Computer Recycling (1125 Starr Ave, Eau Claire, 833-2005) accepts them for a nominal fee.
MedicationsUnused, unwanted, or expired medica-tions 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)
where to go for stuff other than bottles, cans, and paper products
WEIRDrecyclables
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reducing plastic and disposables for summer parties and get-togethersBy Tiffany Coggins
A PARTY ENVIRONMENT
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 waste-ful 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 mate-rials 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 stain-less steel and glass straws? Stainless
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 eco-friendly than recycling. It takes almost no energy to wash out a container com-pared to the energy it takes to recycle it. That said, recycling still saves a boat-load 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
plates and cups with melamine, enam-elware, 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 recy-cling, complain and take your recycla-bles with you. It is the least we can all do to save and conserve.
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.
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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 lit-tle research, I found that they are basi-cally 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.
Creatures, like trout, cannot survive fluc-tuating 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 ero-sion, 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.
RIGHT AS rain GARDENSwhat they can do and why you should do it By Lauren Schara
1. Find a Location: Place it 10 feet away from your buildings to prevent flood-ing. 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 gar-den in a low spot, you do not need to measure the drainage area, just make sure it is a place where water runs dur-ing 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 remov-ing 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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A UWEC rain garden near Haas Fine Arts on Water Street
Waterpark
CHAOS WATER PARKAs summer heats up and the daily tem-perature climbs toward 90 degrees, cool-ing 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 solu-tions. 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 reduc-ing 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 PRODUCTSIt’s hard to stay clean and green these days. Even when you can find earth-friendly 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 with-out cleaning you out. Based out of Menomonie, Weghorn handcrafts every product from high-quality natural materials. Every ingredient is sustainably sourced and biodegrad-able. 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 busi-ness. When the decision was made to add a new office, the owners saw a unique opportunity to cut costs while also maxi-mizing energy efficiency. The basic idea
was that the existing facilities generate large amounts of excess heat during their baked beans manufacturing processes, and by trans-ferring it over to the new addition, the need for traditional heat during the win-ter 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 engi-neered 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 modifi-cations, and won the 2006 Sustainability and Energy Efficiency Leadership Award for the innovative “heat recov-ery” program. Now that (pardon the pun) makes for some “green” beans. – BB
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a few area businesses doing something to be more environmentally conscious
LOCAL BUSINESSES TRYING TO BE GREEN
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Lodging
OTTER CREEK INNWe 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, co-owner, 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 prop-erty. 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-certi-fied and earth-approved. – LS
Interior Design
DEPARTMENT OF INTERIORSGreen homes are definitely in, and designers are quickly adapting to the market. But local business Department of Interiors sets itself apart. The com-pany specializes in cost-effective green design, and they also offer green prod-ucts for home installation. Bonnie Feltz, founder and CEO, says these products have included wallcoverings with recy-cled content and natural fibers, coun-tertops made from recycled products, cabinets made of locally harvested wood, and furniture with safe lumber and soy-based cushions. DOI also offers LED light options, in anything from chande-liers to floor lighting. And these products won’t break the bank. “The best part is that they’re readily accessible and avail-able at standard prices,” she said. DOI is also committed to giving back to the community, as Feltz speaks to organiza-tions about design ethics and sustain-ability 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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Cleaning can be painful. Literally. Many common household cleaning products contain at least one of hundreds of chemi-cals 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.
All-Purpose CleanerMix 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 cer-tain surfaces.Copper PolishTry rubbing your copper pots, pans, and kitchen accents with ketchup. The acidity will help scrape away unwanted deposits.
Drain CleanerPour 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.
Air FreshenersTo 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.
Glass CleanerRegular club soda! OR 2 tsp. vinegar mixed with 1 quart water. Rub with newspaper to prevent streaking.
Oven CleanerSprinkle water inside oven, then add baking soda. Let sit overnight and scour with plastic sponge.
Wood (Unpainted) CleanerDissolve 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 PolishLine 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.
Tub and Tile CleanerFor 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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substitute noxious chemicals with homemade concoctions By Kaitlyn Heisick
CLEAN green
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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 deforesta-tion 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 chlo-rine 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 fil-ters or you can use washable cloth filters.
Toys Made with PVC Plastic: Although PVC is most commonly used in construc-tion, it is also in everyday plastics, includ-ing 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 plas-tic. 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 fragranc-es. The synthetics might give off hor-mone-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 paraf-fin, 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.
sonal vehicles, and doesn’t include the most environmen-
tally friendly trans-portation options.
That would be carpooling, taking public transit (bus,
train, rail, etc.), biking, or walking.
LISTINGSLOCAL BUILDERS/ CONTRACTORSAgOilPress - Cold Press Oil Extractors 3839 W Folsom St., Eau Claire • (877) 645-7737 • [email protected] • 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 con-sumption. Extracts oil from: soybeans, sunflower seed, canola seed, sesame seed, ground-nuts, poppyseed, in-seed, 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 • [email protected] 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 • [email protected] • www.bub-blingspringssolar.com This family owned Menomonie business offers solar thermal collectors for hot water.Chippewa Valley Alternative Energy (866) 460-8656 • [email protected] • www.cvalte.com Dedicated to lowering heating costs using solar thermal, waste oil heaters, and biomass pellets. CVAE services include So-lar PV sales, design, accessories and installation, solar site assessments; used-oil heater parts, repair, trouble-shooting, rebuilds and accessories; pellet mill sales, ac-cessories and more.Energy Concepts 2349 Willis Miller Dr., Hudson • (715) 381-9977 • energyconcepts.us Energy Concepts
provides turn-key commercial and residential solutions for all your renewable energy project needs—includ-ing 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.Jim Erdman (715) 235-8941 • [email protected] 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 • [email protected] • www.nextstepenergy.com Specializes in designing and installing radiant heating and renewable energy applica-tions 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 • [email protected] • www.sdsarch.com This LEED-certified architectural firm specializes in higher education, K-12 education, industrial, commercial, com-munity, 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.watersource-geothermal.com Providing geothermal heating and cool-ing 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 ser-vice 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 cen-ter 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
ENERGY SERVICE CORPSnew program offers free energy assessments for Eau Claire
GREEN PROGRAM
The following programs, groups, and contractors are not the only ones in existence, but merely act as examples of resources available to wannabe greenies.green
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GREEN GROUPSChippewa Valley Alternative Energy downtown Chip-pewa Falls, Chippewa Falls • 866-460-8656 • [email protected] 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 839-4712 • [email protected] • eauclairemaster-gardeners.com The goal of this organization is to pro-mote 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 [email protected] • 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 • [email protected] • eauclairemastergardeners.com This UW Extension volunteer group provides horticul-tural education, community service and environmental stewardship. The Eau Claire Master Gardeners commu-nity 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 [email protected] • thephoenixgarden.blogspot.com Food Not Lawns is an international collective of gar-deners, food activists, community organizers and edu-cators 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.
Foodlums foodlums.blogspot.com • [email protected] 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 ser-vice learning opportunities for Eau Claire and beyond and raises awareness of sustainable, local and deli-cious 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 like-minded environmentalists about ideas, events, and is-sues 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 836-0010 • [email protected] • jonah.wisdomwi.org This inter-congregational organization focuses on a variety of issues such as the environment, econom-
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greenGOics, and incarceration treatment alternatives. JONAH is part of WISDOM, a member of the Gamaliel Foun-dation 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 • wis-consin.sierraclub.org This is a local chapter of the inter-national 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 [email protected] • www.sustainabledunn.org This grassroots organization is de-voted to promoting decisions that meet the needs of the present without compromising the needs of future gen-erations. Monthly programs are held covering a variety of sustainability topics. Its website includes “green” news, a discussion group, and loads of useful links.Sustainable Eau Claire 835-1733 • sustainableeauclaire.org This group works to promote energy conserva-tion, green building, water conser-vation, and initiatives to make Eau Claire a more sustainable community.The UWEC Conservationists uwec.edu/conserve • [email protected], [email protected] The purpose of The Conservationists is to strengthen eco-logical awareness and environmental ethics in the community and campus. The primary goal is to work with the community and university in restoration, con-servation, and management efforts. This group is also on Facebook.Wisconsin Green Building Alliance 414-224-9422 • [email protected] • www.wgba.org This organization’s mission is to promote ecologically sustainable develop-ment practices and provides resources such as an annual conference, educational forums and site visits to demon-stration projects.Wisconsin League of Conservation Voters - Eau Claire 835-4248 • [email protected] • www.conser-vationvoters.org A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to electing conservation leaders, holding deci-sion makers accountable and encouraging lawmakers to champion conservation policies that effectively protect Wisconsin’s public health and natural resources.
PROGRAMSEnergy Service Corps energyservicecorps.org • [email protected] The Eau Claire chapter of Energy Service Corps’ mission is to educate the community on ways they can increase the energy efficiency of their homes and save money on monthly bills. Two Energy Service Corps members will arrive at your house at a scheduled time to look at how energy is being used and recommend ways to make your home more efficient. Takes 30-60 mins.Energy Audits www.xcelenergy.com Xcel Energy offers a Community Conservation Program in which small businesses and area residents can to check heating, air conditioning, lighting, windows, doors, and air filtration for energy efficiency. The audits usually cost $300, but are for a limited time $45, and the inspections are done by Focus on Energy professionals. It is for those in Dunn County and Eau Claire County (but not the city of EC).
About 45 small businesses in Dunn County have had audits. The small business program operates on a three-year 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 ad-dition to Dunn County, the program continues through 2011 in Eau Claire County.
EVENTSEau 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 • Ac-
cept for free: pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, fer-tilizers, solvents, old fuels, cleaners, oil paint,
ishes, air fresheners, drain cleaners, and motor oil. Accept for a fee: latex paint, fluorescent lamps, anti-freeze, aersosol cans, dry cell batteries. Not accepted: biological and infectious wastes, lead acid batteries, radioac-tive materials, pressurized cylinders,
explosive and shock sensitive materi-als, commercial/industrial/institutional/
ter Creek Valley Farm, 7380 US Hwy 53, Eau Claire • FREE • 563-7110 • Grilling with herbs demo and cook out. Bring your own chicken, beef, venison, fish and vegetables to grill and paper dishes and silverware. Grilling demos begin at 1:30pm with Sustainability meeting to follow and a grill out with your marinated foods for the pot luck. Free and open to all ages.Northwest Wisconsin Sustainable Living Fair Usually in July • Rusk County Fairgrounds, Ladysmith • FREE admission, $3 parking • 322-4349 • www.nwwisustain-ablelivingfair.com Over 40 speakers on topics such as solar and wind power, green construction, local food, geothermal heating, recycling, and how your neighbors are putting these ideas into practice.Dunn County Hazardous Waste Collection Sept. 14 at Colfax Fairgrounds (4-6pm) and Sept. 15 at Dunn County Transfer Station (3-4pm businesses, 4-7pm 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 clean-er, lye, batteries (lithium and mercuric oxide), mildew cleaner, window cleaner, moth balls, mercury thermom-eter, silver polish, insect repellent, insecticide, arsenic, kepone, chlordane, penta, DDT, pesticide, fertilizer, poi-son, fungicide, rodent bait, silvex, snail and slug bait. Accepted for a fee: latex paint. All businesses must pre-register before Sept. 9 for both dates and should have a list of materials that they wish to dispose of. Agricultural Clean Sweep Sept. 29 • Northern WI State Fairgrounds • 10:30am-1pm • FREE for county resi-dents • 726-7999 • Accepted for free: pesticides, insec-ticides, wood treatments, veterinary items, lead-based paint, solvents, corrosives, poisons, and mercury. Pre-registration required. Chippewa County Clean Sweep Oct. 1 • Northern WI State Fairgrounds • 8am-noon • FREE for county resi-dents • 726-7999 • Accepted for free: oil/solvent-based paints, heavy metal paints, antifreeze, pesticides, cor-rosives, solvents, wood preservatives, poisons, waste motor oil, cleaners, fuel mixtures, kerosene, fuel oil, household batteries, lead acid batteries, thinners, strip-pers, stains, varnish, aerosol cans, mercury, scrap metal. Accept for a fee: fluorescent bulbs and oil filtersSynergy Conference Usually in October • 232-5270 [email protected] • www.thesynergyconference.com The Synergy Conference aligns stakeholders who seek to build sustainable economic growth through a collaborative approach. The annual conference has be-come 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 • [email protected] • www.campussustainability.info Every year, campus or-ganizations such as Foodlums and Hobnailers head up displays, speakers, recycling programs, cleanups, and bike tune-ups to raise awareness of environmental sus-tainability on campus.Recyclable Art Competition Usually in November • Stu-dent 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.
