Here’s a timely update on local environmental news, programs, and calls-to-action for August.
NYACK 2030 UPDATE AND IDEAS
Since nearly 100 people turned out for the launch of the Nyack 2030 Climate Action Plan project in March, volunteer working groups have been shaping up a roadmap for reducing our climate pollution and protecting nature locally. If you’d like to get involved, please contact Marcy at nyackclimatesmart@gmail.com.
Here are some things we’re talking about–
Rewiring America Everyone should know about this handy website with smart tools to help you plan for and pay for greening your home. Check it out here.
Green Building Neighbor-to-Neighbor Network If you’ve had an energy audit, or you’ve done a weatherization project, installed a heat pump or solar panels, and would be willing to share what you learned with others, please let us know! Your knowledge and tips can help others. If you’re just getting started, we can help! Contact nyackclimatesmart@gmail.com 
Bike Bus This is a great idea for accelerating the transportation transformation. Can this work for Upper Nyack Elementary students? Here’s a recent NYT article about it.
$100,000 GRANT FOR LEARNING IN THE PARKS PROGRAM
Friends of Rockland Lake and Hook Mountain Land $100,000 Grant for Education & Outreach
The Friends of Rockland Lake and Hook Mountain has received a $100,000 grant to strengthen and expand its Learning in the Parks program, which focuses on outreach to young people from groups underrepresented in parks. The organization won the grant through the Trail Partnership Grants program, which is funded through the New York State Environmental Protection Fund.
Learning in the Parks introduces public school students to Hook Mountain and Nyack Beach State Park. Students explore educational stations that showcase real-world science, stewardship, and how much fun it is to spend time in nature, said The Friends. The Friends are required to raise 10 percent of the grant amount received.
PETITION ON PESTICIDES
Nyack resident James Sklar has gathered over 300 signatures on a petition supporting a change in NYS law to allow local control over restrictions on the use of pesticides. The focus of the initiative is on toxic pesticides used in lawn care. The City of Portland Maine passed an ordinance in 2016 restricting the use of certain pesticides and promotes education about alternative practices for maintaining a healthy lawn.
