Karen Thompson, P.G.
Time for Spring Cleaning! – Local Events
-April 3, 2015
From March to June is the time that communities, volunteer organizations, and government coordinate and participate in trash pickup programs. Last week marked the 17th annual Commonwealth Cleanup Week coordinated by the Energy and Environmental Cabinet. Upcoming community events through the Great American Cleanup include Keep Lexington-Fayette County Beautiful with events across Lexington in April, […]
Groundwater Awareness is Important to You!
-March 9, 2015
March 8-14, 2015 This week is National Groundwater Awareness Week sponsored by the National Groundwater Association (NGWA). According to the NGWA, 44 percent of the U.S. population depends on groundwater for its drinking water supply — be it from either a public source or private well. The NGWA promotes stewardship through protection and conservation. […]
Buying or Leasing Commercial Property – What are the environmental questions to ask before you buy, sell or borrow?
-January 20, 2015
Even though your company many not handle hazardous waste or petroleum, your property may be subject to rules and regulations regarding the cleanup of those wastes. SMG will be presenting a series of blogs discussing what information you should know about your property before you buy, sell or borrow against property. All property should go […]
EPA Awards Northern Kentucky University with a Grant to Help Design Sustainable Technologies
-October 17, 2014
EPA awarded Northern Kentucky University with the People, Prosperity, and Planet (P3) award for the 2014-2015 school year. Nationally the grants were awarded to 42 teams of college and university students. The teams will design innovative solutions to sustainable challenges in the developed and developing world. NKU is clearing the air by applying informatics to […]
Safe Drinking Water Act Turning 40
-October 13, 2014
The Safe Drinking Water Act turns 40 this year, which means those who enacted the law are retired and those who grew up with it are in charge. EPA has dedicated a web page to the 40th anniversary of the Safe Drinking Water Act (http://www2.epa.gov/safedrinkingwater40). It is a good time to look back on where […]
State Geologist Retires
-August 11, 2014
Dr. Jim Cobb, a friend and colleague, retired last month as the State Geologist and Director of the Kentucky Geological Survey after 34 years of service at UK. Jim was our 12th state geologist fourth to serve since the Survey was transferred to UK in 1948. He was state geologist from 1999 to 2014. Dr. […]
EPA Releases Final Risk Assessment on TCE and Holds Public Workshop
-July 10, 2014
EPA has finalized the revised risk assessment for Trichloroethene under the TSCA Risk Assessment Program. Information concerning the risk assessment including a fact sheet can be found at http://www.epa.gov/oppt/existingchemicals/pubs/riskassess.html . On July 29-30, 2014, EPA plans to hold an experts workshop on TCE alternatives and risk reeducation approaches.
Ohio River Sweep 2014
-June 19, 2014
River Sweep encompasses the entire length of the river, from its origin in Pittsburgh, PA to its end in Cairo, IL, including nearly 3,000 miles of shoreline and many tributaries. The River Sweep will be conducted on Saturday June 21st and volunteers are still needed. Volunteers can register online at riversweep2014.eventbrite.com or by calling LexCall […]
Improvements made in the EPA’s IRIS Program
-May 8, 2014
The National Academy of Sciences Report concludes that EPA has made significant improvements to the IRIS system, but still has more to do. Recommendations include peer reviewed handbook, involvement of outside experts when required and clear identification of team members. The report also recommends a clear protocol for assessments to be developed. Science Daily News […]
Kentucky Cities are Recognized for Energy Star
-April 14, 2014
Congratulations to Louisville for being in the top 25 cities for most Energy Star certified buildings. Louisville also ranks #3 for mid-size cities behind Columbus OH and San Jose CA. Other Kentucky cities made the top 10 rankings for small cities and include Elizabethtown at #1, Owensboro, London, Bowling Green and Richmond. http://www.energystar.gov/buildings/press-room/top-10-cities-2014/top-25-cities