National (U.S.)

Concerns continue to mount over the potential impact of wind-turbine blades on airborne wildlife. Hence, a consortium of experts has agreed on priorities for investigation, including turbine placement, design, and operation; aerodynamics of turbines, birds, and bats; and habitat, topography, and weather conditions.

The Bush Administration, through the OMB, pressured EPA to water down lead monitoring requirements it had tightened in October 2008. Now EPA may get more or all of the monitors it originally wanted, near facilities that emit about a half ton of lead per year.

The topic of weatherization might appear mundane, but the sheer magnitude of the current multi-billion-dollar program, and its relative importance in increasing energy efficiency and combating climate change, make it a story worth covering.

There have been numerous reports of the demise of outdoor activities in recent years. But it's only half the story — many parks and activities have had increases in use.