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January-March 2014 Volume 43, Number 1 News of the Central Ohio Group
The Central Ohio
Sierran
2014 Ohio Chapter Annual Retreat Sat Feb 1 Mohican State Park Lodge, Perrysville
In This Issue: Chair’s Corner Winter 2014 .......... 2
Sierra Club Meetings ................... 2
Meet Your Executive Committee ... 2
Columbus' Sewer and Water
Advisory Board Update ............ 4
Columbus Sewer & Water Capital
Improvements ........................ 4
Dispatches from the Stream ........ 5
Radioactivity Threatens Local
Watershed .............................. 6
Radioactive Waste Alert .............. 6
Boyer Nature Preserve ................ 7
Warranty-Backed Home Solar ...... 8
Explore Local Nature Preserves .... 8
Outings ..................................... 9
Community Events.................... 10
2014 Good Jobs/Green Jobs
Conference ........................... 11
Directory ................................. 12
FREE AND OPEN TO THE
PUBLIC All programs, meetings,
outings, and events in this newsletter are
free and open to the public unless
otherwise noted. Articles appearing in
The Central Ohio Sierran are the opinions
of the authors and do not necessarily
reflect policy of the Sierra Club.
GET OUR NEWSLETTER VIA
EMAIL. ALSO STAY IN TOUCH!
We can notify you when the newsletter is
available online and let you know about
other updates if we have your email
address on file. To provide or change
your email address, contact Sierra Club
Member Services at P.O. Box 421041,
Palm Coast, FL 32142-1041 or email [email protected] .
Central Ohio Group Program
Hiking in the Four Corners Wed Feb 12, 7 pm OSU Family Practice Northwood-High Bldg.
2231 N. High St. Room 100, Columbus
Don't miss this opportunity to catch up on the Ohio Sierra Club and
environmental issues in Ohio and enjoy the Lodge's amenities and the
park's trails along the Clearfork-Mohican River.
The annual Chapter Retreat is open to all Sierra Club members. This
year the retreat will start with breakfast 8:30 am Saturday and finish
Sunday at 3 pm.
Please check the chapter website at ohiosierraclub.org for an updated
agenda. There will be great sessions on energy, transportation, water,
fracking, forests, coal and nuclear issues, plus a hike Saturday after-
noon. Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided
for current Sierra Club members on Saturday.
Make a reservation for a room in the Lodge by January 15 to get the
special rate of $61 plus tax per night. Call 800-282-7275 and say you
are attending the Sierra Club Ohio Chapter retreat.
Please register for the retreat by January 22 so we have an accurate
count for meals. Register on the Ohio chapter website, ohiosierra-
club.org.
Ben Wickizer shares his late-spring adventure
in the Four Corners region. His road/
backpacking trip took him to Great Sand
Dunes NP & Reserve, Maroon Bells, and
Mount Sneffels in Colorado; Arches NP,
Capital Reef NP, and Bryce Canyon NP in
Utah; and Page/Antelope Canyon in Arizona.
Ben will show us his photographs (he's an ex-
cellent photographer) and talk about his ex-
periences, as well as provide general back-
ground on the region. Come join us! This pro-
gram is free and open to the public. Ben Wickizer
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Chair’s Corner Winter 2014 Fellow Central Ohio Sierrans,
With a heavy heart I inform you that this will be my last Chair's col-
umn. Unfortunately, due to moving across the country, I will no longer
be a part of the Central Ohio Sierra Club group. However, I am excited
to announce our new Executive Committee here in Central Ohio. We
have three new members, two returning members who ran for re-election,
and four members who will continue their two-year terms. I have great
confidence in this crew to continue and expand our efforts.
Thank you to everyone who helped me this last year. I had a lot of sup-
port from Sierra leaders across the state, but no one was more helpful
than my vice-chair Dave Roseman. He is so knowledgeable and passion-
ate, and I am glad the Executive Committee will continue to benefit from
his expertise.
I also encourage everyone who was not yet submitted their email ad-
dresses to Sierra Club national to please do so. As we continue our ef-
forts to protect this planet, we are continuing to eliminate the use of pa-
per, and having your email address will help us keep you informed.
I'll close by thanking those Sierrans who have volunteered in all our areas
of need. Please keep in mind we are always looking for help in a variety
of ways and involvement levels. There's something for everyone, so
don't hesitate to reach out!
Always keep exploring, enjoying, and protecting our planet!
Sarah Cercone
Chair, Sierra Club Central Ohio Group
614-314-7161
sarahcercone.2(at)gmail.com
Central Ohio Group (COG)
Executive Committee
First Wednesdays at 6:45pm
Jan 8, Feb 5, Mar 5
Jan and Mar meetings will be held at
the Clintonville Panera, 4519 N. High
St. Feb meeting will be held at the
Sierra Club office, 131 N. High St.,
Columbus. Press the intercom and
someone will let you in. Contact David
Roseman at SierraCOG(at)gmail.com
for information or if you have an
agenda item.
COG Conservation Committee Third Wednesdays at 6:30 pm
Jan 15, Feb 19, Mar 19
Check the COG Facebook page for the
meeting location. Contact COG
ConsCom Chair Amber Bellamy at
bellamy.41(at)buckeyemail.osu.edu for
more information or if you have an
agenda item.
Needed!
New COG Committee Members
For 2014 we’re looking for Sierra
members and other Central Ohio
environmental activists to become
involved with var ious Group
committees, including Conservation
(water, air, transportation, and other
issues), Educational Programs,
Newsletter, Political, Membership,
Publicity, and Outings. Contact us at
SierraCOG(at)gmail.com for more
information about your area of interest.
Ohio Chapter Conservation and
Executive Committees Mar 16
10 am ConsCom; 1 pm ExCom
Held at the Ohio Sierra Club office,
131 N. High St., Columbus. Lunch
will be served at no charge. Open to
all Sierra Club members. Contact
Chapter Chair Bob Shields at sierrabob
(at)oh.rr.com for more information or
if you have a subject for the agenda.
Sierra Club Meetings
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Meet Your Executive Committee By Kathy O'Keeffe
In December, two Executive Committee (ExCom) members—
Amber Bellamy and Melanie Braithwaite—were re-elected and
three new members—Emma Beasley, Susan Belair and Natasha
Ghica—were elected. In this issue, the Central Ohio Sierran asked
three of them to introduce themselves by responding to some ques-
tions. In future issues we will focus on other members of ExCom.
One of Sierra Club's mandates is to "explore" nature. Describe
a memorable engagement with nature and how it affected your
environmental awareness.
(Continued on page 3)
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SUSAN: I grew up in the country and spent a lot of
time exploring our pond, fields and woods. My family
taught me an attitude of conservation. Nature was
really a spiritual experience for me. I have continued
to have that sense of fascination and care for nature.
AMBER: In college, I went on a two-week long excur-
sion with a class to explore the geology and ecology of
the Southwest US. We visited state and national parks
across Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Colorado, and Ari-
zona. Because we were camping, showers were few
and far between, but one night in Arizona we stayed at
a campground with a nice secluded lake. I snuck away
to swim/take a bath and noticed that the sun was going
down on one side while the moon was coming up on
the other. It was a cool moment and confirmed for me
that natural places are good for the soul and should be
preserved and protected.
NATASHA: I spend most of my free time in nature
and so I have experienced many memorable moments.
One of the most recent ones was when I hiked through
the Carpathian Mountains this summer. One day, after
hiking for a few hours, I came upon a beautiful clear-
ing in the woods where a group of deer were gathered
eating leaves. I stayed and watched them for a bit be-
fore continuing on my way but I appreciated the sight.
It’s simple experiences like these that make me appre-
ciate nature so much more.
With so many pressing issues facing us it is difficult
to know where to focus one's energy. Is there one
issue that you feel particularly passionate about?
SUSAN: Climate change and nuclear power are the
issues with the greatest level of potential destruction.
Water quality and biodiversity/conservation are near
and dear to my heart.
AMBER: Climate change is an issue that could have
consequences that will sneak up on us. There are still
many climate change deniers out there and it’s impor-
tant that someone reach out to them with the facts. At
this point, I think that there’s nothing that we can do to
stop climate change so we have to learn to adapt and
save what we can. Climate change will affect so many
other things like water, biodiversity, and public health.
NATASHA: I believe that all of the issues we face are
equally important in order to have a functioning envi-
ronment. Land, water, and forests are a connected
community that must be preserved and cherished.
However, climate change is a pressing issue in our
society which is why fracking, tar sands, coal, and oil
must be phased out. I believe that we must focus on
clean energy today if we want a future tomorrow. I
consider myself to be passionate about all environ-
mental issues but I also believe that we live in a time
where we must make decisions as a society and that
climate change should be our top priority when mak-
ing these decisions.
What would you like the ExCom to accomplish in
2014? What skills and perspectives do you bring to
the ExCom that will help us reach those goals?
SUSAN: It will be important to join in the fight
against radioactive waste disposal in central Ohio and
to continue to monitor the sewers and water quality in
central Ohio. I would like to increase membership and
member involvement, especially outside of Franklin
County. I will use my communication skills and biol-
ogy education to understand and inform others about
the issues. My perspectives as a parent, a biologist
and a communicator inform everything that I do.
AMBER: I would really like to see ExCom re-
engaging Sierra Club members and reaching out to
new folks as well. We need help from our members to
point out issues that we should be working on, and I
hope that I can assist with getting those interested
plugged in to areas where they can help out.
NATASHA: I hope that ExCom will continue to work
on many local issues in Ohio in 2014. I am looking
forward to being part of a team and incorporating my
own skills and ideas within the group.
What is your favorite central Ohio park, trail or
preserve?
SUSAN: My family loves to camp and go creeking at
Mohican!
AMBER: I really like Clear Creek Metro Park.
They’ve got some nice hikes.
NATASHA: Highbanks Metro Park is a large beauti-
ful park in Delaware County that I enjoy often. It is a
great area for hiking and also offers some unique
sights. The park is home to two Indian burial mounds
and a prehistoric earthwork. It is a must see for nature
enthusiasts!
Meet Your Executive Committee (Continued from page 2)
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Columbus' Sewer and Water Advisory Board (SWAB) Update
by Kalen Cap and Susan Belair
In the past few months, Sierra Club Central Ohio Group
(COG) representatives met with representatives of Frank-
lin County, including a county commissioner, for an up-
date on the local sewer situation. COG's Executive Com-
mittee was pleased with the progress being made.
Although the county has only hired one additional inspec-
tor to deal with the fallout from the decree, the county is
actually ahead of the decree's timetable for inspections.
Furthermore, the inspections seem to be substantial since
the county has issued several notices of violations.
The county has also introduced a new program to inspect
aerators which is outside the scope of the decree. Under
this program environmental inspectors will inspect every
aerator in the unincorporated area of Franklin County. If
there are violations that need to be addressed additional
inspections have to be undertaken by Sanitarians.
Central Ohio Group's Executive Committee would be will-
ing to amend the decree to allow additional inspections to
be conducted by a third environmental inspector rather
than a state sanitarian. That change would make it easier
for the county to add needed staff and proceed with in-
spections and notices of violations.
Franklin County will be issuing a report on compliance
with the decree in May.
Columbus Sewer & Water Capital Improvements
The following information was taken from a public presen-
tation on current Capital Projects given by the City of Co-
lumbus' Department of Public Utilities, Division of Sewer-
age and Draining, in June of 2013.
Part I: Collection System Enhancements
The Sewer and Water Advisory Board (SWAB) is plan-
ning a number of enhancements to the Columbus area sew-
age collection system.
• A Blacklick sanitary sewer extension scheduled to be bid
in 2014 will provide service to northeast Columbus and
the New Albany area at a projected cost of $78 million.
• The Olentangy-Scioto Intercepting Sewer (OSIS) and
Olentangy Augmentation & Relief Sewer (OARS) will
be a deep tunnel from the Jackson Pike Plant to the Arena
District. Construction cost will be over $260 million. A
pump station and tunnel shafts will be added later, with a
cost of almost $70 million. The city claims that this pro-
ject will “virtually eliminate overflows from the com-
bined sewer regulators along the downtown riverfront.”
• In 2015 or later, a Big Walnut and Rickenbacker sani-
tary sewer interceptor will provide service to the former
Air National Guard Base, the Intermodal Transportation
Facility, and the Village of Lockbourne. Its projected
cost is almost $70 million.
• SWAB will also re-line some collection system pipe that
is showing signs of deterioration. Re-lining instead of
replacing the pipe will save money. The department of
public utilities claims that relined pipe should last for 50
or more years. The estimated cost of this is $5 million.
• STEP, the Septic Tank Elimination Program, will
work to eliminate some of the more than 1700 Household
Sewage Treatment Systems (HSTS) in the city of Colum-
bus by providing loans and the extension of new sanitary
lines to Columbus residents. The first phase of this pro-
gram is under construction on Skyline Drive for a cost of
$900,000. In 2014 the city will proceed with Petzinger
Rd. ($1M) and Portage Grove ($2M) and move on to
Merwin Hill ($2M) in 2015.
Part II: Wastewater Treatment Plants
Biosolids Management
Columbus uses multiple methods to manage biosolids be-
cause “diversity of methods provides resiliency to chang-
ing regulations and market forces.” For example, landfill
disposal is no longer a viable option for biosolids. Incin-
eration is still used but de-emphasized. The focus has
shifted to “greener and less costly methods” such as the
following.
• Land Application is the “most desirable method in use
today.” It adds nutrients to farm fields and sequesters
carbon. It also has the lowest management cost. How-
ever, land application is dependent on weather and crop
cycles. Therefore biosolids must be stored during times
when application is not possible. SWAB has proposed
construction of additional storage facilities at treatment
plants and at remote locations near farm fields.
• Investments in incineration will probably continue but
focus on meeting new EPA rules (Incinerator Air Emis-
(Continued on page 5)
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sion limits) which will take effect in March of 2016.
This final rule sets limits for 9 pollutants under section
129 of the Clean Air Act. Aging equipment must be reha-
bilitated. The incinerators at Jackson Pike need minor
upgrades that will cost about $5M. The incinerators at
Southerly need new emissions equipment and a control
system that will cost about $24M .
• No major composting facility expansions are planned.
Columbus currently composts about 43,800 wet tons per
year of biosolids.
• Several third party waste processing agreements exist.
The city has had an agreement with SWACO and the
Kurtz Bros/Quasar Facility since 2005. This digestion
facility produces methane and electricity. Beginning this
year, an agreement was formed with Ohio Mulch to use
biosolids when planting hybrid poplar trees on aban-
doned strip mine land. These fast-growing trees will be
harvested for wood chips.
Part II: Wastewater Treatment Plants
Several proposals are being analyzed by the department of
public utilities that would sell excess digester gas (meth-
ane). There should be NO cost to the city but revenue will
be generated from the sale of the gas. A further benefit is
that this process creates a green source of energy.
Chemically Enhanced Primary Treatment
SWAB plans to expand its Chemically Enhanced Primary
Treatment capacity by 110 million gallons per day (mgd)
from the current 330 mgd at Southerly WWTP to 440 mgd
peak flow capacity. They are currently evaluating options
for treatment and configuration and writing RFP(s). The
estimated cost is $85m with a completion date in 2019.
This option replaces a proposed additional tunnel. The
additional treatment capacity will achieve a more immedi-
ate reduction in overflow than the tunnel project it re-
places. It also maximizes the value of existing assets at
the Southerly Wastewater Treatment Plant.
See the next issue of the newsletter for Sierra Club's per-
spective on these improvements.
Columbus Sewer & Water Capital Improve-
ments (Continued from page 4)
Dispatches from the Stream– Main Street Dam
By Ben Wickizer – Conservation Program Coordinator
It seems like yesterday when we were lauding the removal
of the Fifth Avenue Dam, which took years to come to
fruition. Now, with the initial breach of the Main Street
Dam on the Scioto River in late November of 2013, we
again have the opportunity to celebrate the restoration of
another Central Ohio waterway. The speed at which the
project has moved is amazing, and it is a good example of
what can be accomplished through public-private partner-
ships done right. The removal and restoration is slated for
completion by fall of 2015.
Although not every aspect of the removal and restoration
plan is perfect, it would be a mistake to miss the forest for
the trees and not recognize what the removal of the dam
will do and mean in the long-term. Like the Fifth Avenue
Dam removal on the Olentangy River, this project will
partially restore the Scioto’s natural flow and, hopefully,
the native ecology of the waterway. The dam entrained
sediment and pollution, blocked species from moving up
and downstream, and altered the flow regimes of the river.
It was also a barrier to recreation. The dam removal will
also add green space to the riverbanks as the river’s chan-
nel shrinks.
Not only is the project an environmental boon, it is the
type of long-term game changer that will attract more indi-
viduals and businesses to Columbus. One commonality of
many cities with strong economies is the presence of abun-
dant natural amenities. Given the choice between a loca-
tion offering recreational opportunities, a healthy environ-
ment, and plentiful green space, and the converse, the vast
majority of people, especially those who have the human
capital to work anywhere, will choose the location with
those amenities. Thus, this project even transcends the
immediate environmental impacts.
Our work is not over. As the development of the newly
created green space unfolds, we must make sure that it re-
mains green space. Any proposal to expropriate any parcel
of the property for major real estate or commercial devel-
opment should be soundly rejected.
On a personal note… It is with sadness but excitement
that I mention changes to my professional life: I have the
opportunity to do research by attending Ohio State Univer-
sity starting in January 2014. Balancing this with my cur-
rent responsibilities for the Sierra Club is not possible, and
I will therefore be leaving my position.
Working for the Sierra Club for nearly three years has
been a great experience. I appreciate all of the knowledge,
assistance, and support that members have offered me and
look forward to helping the Club as a member and watch-
ing the Chapter continue to grow and succeed.
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Radioactive Waste Alert on Unsafe Disposal in Central Ohio
By Greg Pace
Radioactive Waste Alert is spearheading an effort to en-
sure that the waste stream from shale gas & oil production
is not being disposed of in an unsafe manner in Ohio,
mainly focusing on the central region of the state.
Our main concern is that drill cuttings from horizontal
fracking wells are being disposed of in up to 39 landfills in
Ohio, beginning at Ohio Soil Recycling LLC (OSR), on
the site of the former Integrity Drive Drum Dump. This
site in Columbus lies adjacent to Alum Creek. These ma-
terials are known to be radioactive at levels higher than
background levels (sometimes grossly higher). This type
of dangerous substance is not being disposed of prop-
erly. It will result in a long-term legacy of radium leach-
ing into the environment (radium-226 has a half-life of
1600 years). The regulatory environment is not being re-
sponsible for this radioactive waste stream, therefore the
disposal process must not happen until full assurances can
be demonstrated that public safety is not put at risk.
A public forum and follow-up meeting on this issue were
held at Columbus Public Library in November and Decem-
ber. Speakers included Geologist Dr. Julie Weatherington-
Rice, Geo-microbiologist Dr. Yuri Gorby, Sierra Club pre-
senter Brian Kunkemoeller, and environmental activist
Teresa Mills. They discussed the radioactive aspect of the
toxic fracking waste stream in Ohio, as well as the delete-
rious health effects of shale drilling on citizens in West
Virginia over the past two years.
Visit Radioactive Waste Alert Online
Go to http://www.radioactivewastealert.org.
Click on “LEARN MORE” for information on issues.
Click on “GET INVOLVED” to sign petitions.
Talk to your state representatives.
Attend Radioactive Waste Alert Events
Tue, Jan 28, Gasland and Gasland II, 5:30pm &
7:30pm. Drexel Theatre, 2254 E Main St., Bexley. Ra-
dioactive Waste Alert, the Columbus Free Press and Co-
lumbus International Film & Video Festival will join to
present a free double feature screening of these award-
winning movies.
Tue Feb 4, Medical and Public Health Impacts of Ra-
dioactive Waste in our Water Supply, Columbus Public
Library Main Branch, 96 Grant Ave. (96 S. Grant
Ave.) 7:00pm to 8:30pm (doors open at 6:30pm). Radio-
active Waste Alert will offer its second public forum, Ex-
perts in the medical and Public Health professions will
discuss the impacts of the toxic, radioactive shale waste
stream in Ohio on our communities' health.
Radioactive Waste Alert is a grass roots organization based in
Columbus.
By Susan Belair
Fracking, the drilling method used to extract natural gas
from shale rock, is now affecting central Ohio. The Ohio
Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) on August 15,
2013 issued an Integrated Alternative Waste Management
Program (IAWMP) permit allowing Ohio Soil Recycling,
LLC (OSR) to process and reuse fracking sludge at their
facility in southeast Columbus. OSR is close to Alum
Creek, Alum Creek Drive, I-70, the Greenway Bike Trail,
the City of Bexley, and upstream from the confluence of
Alum Creek and the Scioto River.
When the Ohio budget bill passed in June of 2013, it
changed the way radioactive waste is classified. This al-
lowed the OEPA to describe fracking waste as “Naturally
Occurring Radioactive Materials” (NORM), which in turn
allowed them to permit disposal without testing for ra-
dioactivity. The real problem is that fracking waste is
technologically-enhanced NORM (called TENORM) with
much higher concentrations of radioactive materials than
occurring naturally due to processing.
A group of concerned citizens quickly formed to deal spe-
cifically with this issue. Radioactive Waste Alert de-
scribes themselves as an “all volunteer, grass roots organi-
zation of Columbus area residents” who are “against the
dumping of fracking waste in local municipal landfills.”
Sierra Club Central Ohio Group's Executive Committee
voted to object to OEPA's permit.
According to Radioactive Waste Alert, radium and radium
-226 are by-products of hydraulic fracturing, or fracking.
These elements are radioactive. Because of the way in
which gas and oil are formed, the most prolific areas of
underground shale for gas and oil production are also the
hottest radioactively. Nearly all solid and liquid waste
from fracking contains some level of radiation, and some
levels are high enough to cause medical problems. These
(Continued on page 7)
Radioactivity Threatens Local Watershed
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health problems include low birth weight, birth defects,
liver enlargement and abnormalities, and higher rates of
cancer. Radium-226 is associated with leukemia.
There is a real potential for contaminating the watershed.
Toxic substances and radioactive elements in landfills can
leach into our rivers and streams through our ground wa-
ter. Radioactive Waste Alert's website asserts that all land-
fills leak within a few decades. Radium-226 is particularly
problematic because it is highly water soluble and will
make its way into the water supply even when "diluted"
with dirt, sawdust, or other elements to meet certain EPA
requirements.
Take Action
• Visit http://www.radioactivewastealert.org to learn more
and to sign petitions.
• Talk to your state representatives.
• Attend Radioactive Waste Alert's upcoming events. (See
related article on page 6.)
Radioactivity Threatens Local Watershed (Continued from page 6)
By Natasha Ghica – Ohio Chapter Clean Water Fellow-
ship Student
Boyer Nature Preserve is truly a special area in Wester-
ville. Boyer is no run-of-the-mill park but one of Central
Ohio’s gems: a serene and beautiful wetland tucked right
among suburban residential homes. This beautiful nature
preserve has only been open to the public for a few years
and open access has been a huge success. On October 26,
as part of Make a Difference Day, Sierra Club hosted an
invasive honeysuckle removal and tree planting there with
our partners FACT (Friends of Alum Creek & Tributaries),
Mad Scientist and Associates, and Westerville Parks and
Recreation.
It was a frigid fall morning that day, but that didn’t stop
the 50 volunteers who came out to help with the clean-up.
What is inspiring is that many of the volunteers were chil-
dren, working hard to make a difference. Girl Scouts,
young families, teenagers, and elderly individuals all
showed up to get something important done on that cold
day. The forest was truly alive as all the volunteers
worked together to dismantle the honeysuckle with hand
saws and various other tools.
After removing the honeysuckle, volunteers then planted
native trees where the honeysuckle had been. These beau-
tiful trees will grow and become a part of Boyer Nature
Preserve, discouraging honeysuckle, which can disrupt the
local ecology, from growing in those areas.
With the hard work of our volunteers, Sierra Club and its
partners were able to improve the health of Boyer Nature
Preserve and ensure that the area is optimally functioning.
Protecting areas like Boyer Nature Preserve is important to
communities because of the ecosystem functions and ser-
vices these types of areas provide.
Urban wetlands like Boyer Preserve serve an important
purpose. Wetlands act as a filter, removing pollutants and
helping keep the water that we drink and play in clean.
The vegetation that is found around wetlands helps remove
phosphates and plant nutrients from the soil which dis-
courages algae from growing on the waterway and stealing
oxygen from the plants and animals trying to survive. Wet-
lands plants absorb excess water, reduce flooding, and pro-
vide habitat for a myriad of species.
There are several reasons for removing invasive species.
Introducing an exotic species to an area disrupts the deli-
cate balance of the ecosystem by changing environmental
conditions. If native species are at a competitive disadvan-
tage compared to the invasive species, the invasive species
rapidly multiplies and takes over the new ecosystem, lead-
ing to a loss of biodiversity. Some invasive plants have
harmful effects on humans and animals through contact.
The community is now more connected with Boyer Nature
Preserve and is helping to ensure Boyer remains healthy.
The Sierra Club will keep working to protect it and other
urban wetlands across Central Ohio.
Boyer Nature Preserve and the Importance of Urban Wetlands
Above: Boyer Nature Preserve in Westerville.
Page 8
Warranty-Backed Home Solar for Sierra Club Members
By Brian Kunkemoeller, Ohio Chapter
We are excited to announce our new partnership with
Dovetail Solar and Wind as part of Sierra Club’s Solar
Homes campaign! This campaign makes it possible for
members and supporters to get a superior quality, war-
ranty-backed solar system for their homes from a lead-
ing, thoroughly vetted, local solar provider.
We know many of our members and supporters are very
knowledgeable about solar and have researched renewable
energy as way to reduce reliance on dirty fossil fuels and
move forward to a clean energy economy. The
Ohio Chapter of the Sierra Club shares your vision and has
created this partnership to ease the transition to clean solar
power right here in Ohio by eliminating the need to re-
search local providers and options. In addition, for every
home that goes solar through this program, Dovetail will
make a referral payment to the Ohio Chapter to support
our important work preserving and protecting Ohio’s envi-
ronment.
Here’s how the program is a win-win-win: an average 6.1
kW made-in-the-USA solar system will save customers
more than $40,000 over the 25 year life of the system; the
Ohio Chapter will raise money for critical campaigns;
more solar will replace dirty energy as Sierra Club mem-
bers cut their carbon footprints and collectively help to
scale up clean energy and green jobs in Ohio.
“In order to end our dependence on dirty energy, we need
as many Americans as possible to switch to clean energy
like rooftop solar. This is a high priority for the Sierra
Club. We are urging all of our members and supporters in
Ohio to work with Dovetail Solar to find out if solar is
right for them. Every home that goes solar gets us one
step closer to our goal of a clean energy economy,” said
Sierra Club Executive Director Michael Brune.
To date, the Sierra Club’s Solar Homes program has
helped 1,070 homes go solar across the country. Over the
next 20 years, this will offset the same amount of carbon
as 1,180 cars taken off the road or 6,943 acres of trees
planted.
For a free solar quote, go to dovetailsolar.com/sierra.
Once you do, a rep from Dovetail Solar will contact you to
discuss whether solar is right for you. They can give you a
good idea about how much going solar might save you.
Page 8
Explore Your Local Nature Preserves
By Kalen Cap
We are fortunate to have some great parks and park sys-
tems within Sierra Club Central Ohio Group’s area. But
those looking for a bit more special experience can also
explore amazing natural wonders by visiting our area’s
nature preserves.
According to Britannica, a nature preserve has as its “sole
purpose the protection of nature,” unlike multi-faceted
parks, which have recreation among their key purposes. In
a nature preserve, plants or animals that are rare for the
greater region are usually within its ecosystem. For exam-
ple, Daughmer Bur Oak Prairie Savannah, a state nature
preserve in Crawford County, is among the most intact
prairie savannah ecosystems remaining in the Midwest
region. Some of the bur oaks in this preserve are over 200
years old.
Nature preserves are often open to the public, though a few
require special permits. For state nature preserves, the
ODNR website clearly designates which preserves have
ready access and which require special permits because of
the delicacies of the ecosystems involved. However, pre-
serves usually have restrictions on the type of activities
allowed. Generally, only low impact activities such as hik-
ing and bird watching are permitted.
As financial resources for the state have shifted over time,
the low profile nature preserves have not always fared well
compared to park systems in budget allocations. Recently,
at least one state nonprofit organization, ONAPA (Ohio
Natural Areas & Preserves Association) has formed to pro-
tect, improve, and promote Ohio’s state nature preserves.
For those seeking a formally scheduled field trip, ONAPA
does post a calendar of scheduled events on its website at http://www.onapa.org/
Nature preserves are not merely confined to state-overseen
sites. County park systems may oversee their own pre-
serves. For example, Hoover Nature Preserve in Galena is
monitored by Columbus Recreation & Parks Department.
Recognized as an important birding area, at 925 acres,
Hoover Nature Preserve is a significant gem protected lo-
cally and readily available for visitors’ low impact enjoy-
ment.
Check your local resources to discover other nature pre-
serves in your immediate vicinity. We have a wealth of
(Continued on page 11)
Page 9
Outings are open to all; you do not have to be a member of the Sierra Club to par-
ticipate. In fact, if you are interested in joining the Sierra club, we encourage you to
go on an outing and get to know some Sierrans. To aid you in selecting outings that
fit your experience and fitness levels, please see our Outings Rating System.
Please refer to the COG web site for November/December outings, more information about the October hikes, and any
updates at www.ohio.sierraclub.org/central/GetOutdoors.asp.
Page 9
Please refer to the Hike Leader Roster
on Page 11 for contact information.
Fri Jan 10, 7 pm: German Village.
Ratings: E/S 1/1. Meet at Schiller
Park (Deshler and Jaeger) for a 3 mile
walk. (hiking boots, flashlight, reflec-
tive wear) We will have a potluck
after the walk on Front St. in German
Village. Leader: Vicki Deisner.
Sun Jan 12, 10 am:
Granville Day Hike.
Ratings: E/S 3/ 4. (dog
friendly hike) Meet behind Tim Hor-
ton's on Cleveland Ave., just north of
SR 161. We will walk about 10 miles
at a brisk pace with hills. (water,
lunch, hiking boots) Leader: Jim
Halverson.
Fri Jan 17, 7 pm: New Albany.
Ratings: E/S 2/2. Meet at 200 Mar-
ket St. in New Albany and park at the
northeast corner of the library, the far
right corner when facing the li-
brary. (flashlight, reflective clothing)
There will be an optional dinner after
the hike at a local restaurant. Leader:
Line Martineau.
Sun Jan 19, 1 pm: Highbanks
Metro Park. Ratings: E/S 2/2. Meet
at the Nature Center. We will hike 3
to 6 miles depending on weather and
trail conditions. (hiking boots)
Leader: Dave Dorsky.
Fri Jan 24, 7 pm: Grove City.
Ratings: E/S 1 /2. Meet at Grove City
Library, 3359 Park St. An optional
dinner will take place after the hike.
Leader: Eric Schaumann.
Fri Jan 31, 7 pm: Upper Arlington
North. Ratings: E/S 1/1. We’ll meet
at the Lane Road branch of the Upper
Arlington Public Library. The library
closes at 6 pm on Fridays so there are
no restrooms available. We’ll have an
optional dinner afterwards at an area
restaurant. (flashlight, reflective
clothing) Leaders: John and Marilyn
Fiske.
Sun Feb 2, 11 pm: Blendon Woods
Metro Park. Ratings: E/S 2/2. Meet
at the Nature Center at 4265 E. Dublin
-Granville Rd. Leader: Chris Tisdale.
Fri Feb 7, 7 pm: Old Beechwold.
Ratings: E/S 2/2. Meet at the Kroger
parking lot in Graceland Shopping
Center. Please park and gather to the
west of the Kroger store. We will hike
about 3 miles then have an optional
dinner at a local restaurant. (hiking
boots) Leader: Linda Halverson.
Sun Feb 9, 10 am: Clifton Gorge
and John Bryan State Park Day
Hike. Ratings: E/S 2/2. We will hike
5 to 8 miles depending on weather and
trail conditions. Meet behind Bob
Evans Restaurant at Westland
Shopping Center (just east of I-270
and W. Broad St.) (lunch, water,
hiking boots) Leader: Dave Dorsky.
Fri Feb 14, 7 to 8 pm: Franklin
Park. Ratings: E/S 1/1. Meet inside
the east entrance of the Conservatory (Continued on page 11)
COG Winter Outings Outings are open to all; you do not have to be a member of the Sierra Club to par-
ticipate. In fact, if you are interested in joining the Sierra club, we encourage you to
go on an outing and get to know some Sierrans. To aid you in selecting outings that
fit your experience and fitness levels, please see our Outings Rating System.
Please refer to the COG web site for outings to see more information
about the hikes and additions and changes to the schedule at
www.ohio.sierraclub.org/central/GetOutdoors.asp.
Note: These hikes may be cancelled if conditions are hazardous. Call
the leader if the weather seems questionable.
General Outings Policies
- Outings are free of charge unless noted.
- In order to participate in one of these out-
ings, you will need to sign a liability waiver.
- Dogs must not be taken on hikes unless the
write-up mentions that they may be included.
- We encourage carpooling and voluntary
contributions of gas money to the driver.
Outings Rating System Each outing is rated twice. Both scales are
one to five; the E scale indicates the required
experience level and the S scale shows the
physical activity level anticipated.
E Scale
1 Novice - no experience required.
2 A little experience is required.
3 Moderate experience required.
4 Considerable experience required.
5 For the very experienced only.
S Scale
1 Not strenuous.
2 Could be strenuous.
3 Somewhat strenuous.
4 Strenuous.
5 Very strenuous.
If you are interested in an outing but are
unsure if you can manage it or if you wish to
meet the group at the trailhead instead of the
assembly point, call the leader to discuss the
trip. Be advised that longer day hikes re-
quire proper equipment. Hike leaders re-
serve the right to deny participation to any-
one deemed to be inadequately prepared.
What to Bring: 1. Sturdy hiking boots or shoes. Make sure
your footwear is broken in before you at-
tempt a 10-mile hike.
2. Clothing appropriate to the season. Lay-
ering works best in cold weather to prevent
overheating. Raingear is essential for com-
fort as hikes may proceed rain or shine.
3. A small first aid kit with band-aids or
moleskin for blisters.
4. At least one liter of water (two liters in
warm weather). Water is usually unavailable
on the trail.
5. Snacks or lunch if mentioned in the hike
description.
Friday Night Hikes Friday Night Hikes are a great way to end
a week. These are usually 3 to 4 miles with
an optional stop afterward for refreshments
and conversation. So, have some fun and join
us on a Friday Night Hike! Note: heavy
weather generally cancels a Friday Night
Hike. If it looks questionable, check with the
leader for that particular hike. Please wear
reflective clothing to all urban night hikes,
especially during EST months.
General Outings Policies
- Outings are free of charge unless noted.
- In order to participate in one of these out-
ings, you will need to sign a liability waiver.
- Dogs must not be taken on hikes unless the
write-up mentions that they may be included.
- We encourage carpooling and voluntary
contributions of gas money to the driver.
Outings Rating System Each outing is rated twice. Both scales are
one to five; the E scale indicates the required
experience level and the S scale shows the
physical activity level anticipated.
E Scale
1 Novice - no experience required.
2 A little experience is required.
3 Moderate experience required.
4 Considerable experience required.
5 For the very experienced only.
S Scale
1 Not strenuous.
2 Could be strenuous.
3 Somewhat strenuous.
4 Strenuous.
5 Very strenuous.
If you are interested in an outing but are
unsure if you can manage it or if you wish to
meet the group at the trailhead instead of the
assembly point, call the leader to discuss the
trip. Be advised that longer day hikes re-
quire proper equipment. Hike leaders re-
serve the right to deny participation to any-
one deemed to be inadequately prepared.
What to Bring
1. Sturdy hiking boots or shoes. Make sure
your footwear is broken in before you at-
tempt a 10-mile hike.
2. Clothing appropriate to the season. Lay-
ering works best in cold weather to prevent
overheating. Raingear is essential for com-
fort as hikes may proceed rain or shine.
3. A small first aid kit with band-aids or
moleskin for blisters.
4. At least one liter of water (two liters in
warm weather). Water is usually unavailable
on the trail.
5. Snacks or lunch if mentioned in the hike
description.
Friday Night Hikes Friday Night Hikes are a great way to end
a week. These are usually 3 to 4 miles with
an optional stop afterward for refreshments
and conversation. So, have some fun and join
us on a Friday Night Hike! Note: heavy
weather generally cancels a Friday Night
Hike. If it looks questionable, check with the
leader for that particular hike. Please wear
reflective clothing to all urban night hikes,
especially during EST months.
Page 10
Page 10
The following activities are not sponsored nor administered by the Sierra Club. The Sierra Club has no information about the
planning of these activities and makes no representations or warranties about the quality, safety, supervision or management of
such activities. They are published because they may be of interest to our readers. These events are all open to the public. They
are free unless otherwise noted.
Non-Sierra Club Community Events
Columbus Metro Parks has a
spectacular range of programs.
Information and registration at
http://reservations.metroparks.net/
programs/.
Sat Jan 11, 10 am: If
Your Butterflies Could
Speak. Learn about butterflies as bio-
indicators. Whetstone Library Com-
munity Room in Columbus.
Sat Jan 11, 1 to 3 pm: Big Green
Head Post-Holiday Styrofoam Re-
cycling Collection. Thomas Wor-
thington High School parking lot.
Drop off styrofoam to recycle – ex-
cept for packing peanuts, egg cartons,
food containers, or anything that has
touched food. $5 donation suggested.
Sun Jan 12, 1 to 3 pm: Big Green
Head Post-Holiday Styrofoam Re-
cycling Collection. Beth Tikvah
parking lot in Worthington. See Sun
Jan 11 entry for details.
Sat Jan 18, 9 am to 1 pm:
Winter Birds of the Urban
Scioto. Explore along the
Scioto River, around the Greenlawn
dam and open-water sites looking for
gulls, herons, and waterfowl. If time
allows, visit nearby Green Lawn
Cemetery. Meet at the Scioto Audu-
bon Park boat launch off Whittier Ave
west of Front St. Dress warmly. For
more information, contact Rob Thorn
at [email protected] .
Sun Jan 19, 11 am to 2 pm:
Celebrate Tu B’Shvat—
The New Year for Trees.
Create a family tree using natural tree
branches and creative items and listen
to stories celebrating trees and nature
at 11 am, 12, 1, or 2 pm. Free with
admission to the Franklin Park Con-
servatory in Columbus. Details at
www.fpconservatory.org/.
Mon Jan 27, 7 to 9 pm: Delaware
County Bird Club: Creating and
Managing a Purple Martin Colony. Learn how to encourage the start of a
purple martin colony, including pur-
ple martin biology and habits, nesting
and habitat requirements and its his-
toric relationship with man. Parking
available next to the Selby Stadium
on the east side of Henry St.
Tue Jan 28, 7 to 9 pm: The
Comeback of Barn Owls in
Ohio. Once nearly extirpated
from Ohio, the Barn Owl has staged a
remarkable comeback. Karen Norris,
Wildlife Communications Specialist
with the Ohio Division of Wildlife,
will also discuss Peregrine Falcons in
Ohio. Held at the Grange Insurance
Audubon Center in Columbus,
www.columbusaudubon.org
Sat Feb 8, 9 am to 2 pm:
Winter Birds of Hoover
Reservoir. Visit some Hoo-
ver spots looking for over-wintering
loons, grebes, cormorants, goldeneye,
mergansers, and other diving ducks,
along with gulls and raptors. Meet at
the dam parking area along Sunbury
Rd. and dress warmly. For more in-
formation contact Rob Thorn at rob-
[email protected] .
Sun Feb 9, 12 to 4 pm: Second Sun-
days: We Love Wildlife! Visit over
50 wild animals, take a tour, and
make animal enrichment and Valen-
tine's Day crafts. Held in the Nature
Education Center of the Ohio Wildlife
Center (www.ohiowildlifecenter.org)
in Powell.
Feb 22, 8 pm: Live Performance:
American Power. Cellist and com-
poser Erik Friedlander collaborates
with photographer Mitch Epstein to
examine how we coexist with our di-
verse sources of energy and power.
Held in the Performance Space of the
Wexner Center for the Arts in Colum-
bus. Tickets are $18.
Mon Feb 24, 7 to 9 pm: Delaware
County Bird Club: Impacts of Fish-
ing Line and Lead Fishing Tackle
on Wildlife. Meetings begin with a
chance to view mystery birds from the
museum; bring your field guide for
identification. Parking is available
next to the Selby Stadium on the east
side of Henry St.
Wed Mar 5, 8:30 am to 4:00
pm: Ohio Woodland Water
& Wildlife Conference. OSU Extension Service's
Ohio Woodland Stewards program
hosts this conference, held at the Mid-
Ohio Conference Center in Mansfield.
Some of the topics this year are Man-
aging for Forest Songbirds, Under-
standing Climate Change, and Identi-
fying Plants in Ohio Wetlands. Reg-
istration will be open soon at http://
woodlandstewards.osu.edu/
workshops/2014-ohio-woodland-
water-wildlife-conference.
Sun Mar 9, 12 to 4 pm: Second Sun-
days: Spring Is Right Around the
Corner! Visit over 50 wild animals,
take a tour, and at 2 pm learn how
animal control professionals work
humanely at the Nature Education
Center of the Ohio Wildlife Center in
Powell, www.ohiowildlifecenter.org.
Sat Mar 22, 9:30 am to 5
pm: Central Ohio Vernal
Pool Monitoring Workshop. Learn the importance of vernal pools
and how to monitor one. Visit a ver-
(Continued on page 11)
Page 11
these nature preserves to explore throughout
Central Ohio. Venture out and explore the
unique wonders found within nature pre-
serves. Visitors often find these sites are
more serene than public parks, allowing an
enjoyable, deeper connection to the envi-
ronment. Protecting these sites and the spe-
cial ecosystems they possess is an important
Sierra Club concern.
Explore Your Nature Preserves (Continued from page 8)
Page 11
Outings Hike Leaders Please contact them for more information about their hikes.
Cabral, Jose 740-331-1161, cabral.1(at)osu.edu
Deisner, Vicki [email protected]
Dorsky, Dave 614-848-7879, valordave(at)hotmail.com
Espinoza, David & Avalon 614-403-7849
Fiske, John 614-457-3699, jrob48(at)aol.com
Fiske, Marilyn 614-457-3699, mjean49(at)aol.com
Halverson, Jim 614-325-6415, jimhalvey(at)aol.com
Halverson, Linda 614-325-6415, lmat1010(at)aol.com
Huntley, George 614-444-1970, gh6(at)earthlink.net
Martineau, Line 614-749-1447, linenmartineau(at)gmail.com
McDonald, Jim 614-262-2666, jmcdonald121(at)aol.com
Ruf,Tom 614-406-5336, tomruf85(at)yahoo.com
Schaumann, Eric 614-270-5951, schaumann(at)copper.net
Tisdale, Chris 614-260-2109
Feb 10, 6 pm to Feb 11, 6 pm
2014 Good Jobs/Green Jobs Conference Washington Hilton Hotel, Washington DC
Keynote speakers will include Michael Brune, Executive Director of Sierra Club.
Choose from more than 40 informative workshops. Enjoy opportunities to network with people from
around the country making a difference in their communities to tackle climate change and create good
jobs. $225 registration fee. Registration and more info can be found at greenjobsconference.org.
on the lower level (left of doors). Leader: Chris Tisdale.
Fri Feb 21, 7 pm: Grove City. Ratings: E/S 1/ 2. Meet at Grove City
Library, 3359 Park St. An optional dinner will take place after the hike.
Leader: Eric Schaumann.
Sun Feb 23, 11 am: Alum Creek State Park. Ratings: E/S
3/3 . (dog-friendly hike) Meet at the west end of the Wal-
Mart parking lot in North Pointe Plaza shopping center,
which is on the east side of US 23 about 1/2 mile north of
Powell Rd. Alum Creek State Park is just a 10-minute drive from our
meeting place. This will be a 9-mile hike over a variety of terrains.
(hiking boots, water, snack/lunch) Leader: Jim Halverson.
Fri Feb 28, 7 pm: Bexley. Ratings: E/S 1/1 . Meet in the parking lot
of the Bexley Public Library, 2411 E. Main St, for a 3-mile hike.
(reflective clothing, flash light, hiking boots) There will be an optional
dinner afterwards. Leaders: David and Avalon Espinoza.
Outings
(Continued from page 9)
nal pool and see the creatures that call it
home. Participants will receive the Ohio
Environmental Council (OEC)’s field guide
to vernal pools, a CD of frog and toad calls,
monitoring forms, vernal pool fact cards
and more. Held at Stratford Ecological Cen-
ter in Delaware. Cost is $30 for non-
members, which includes a 1-year member-
ship to both OEC and Ohio Wetlands Asso-
ciation. Register by Mar 15 at http://
www.theoec.org/events/vernal-pool-
workshop-central-ohio.
Tue Mar 25, 7 to 9 pm: What's
New at the Zoo! Tom Stalf, Presi-
dent and CEO of the Columbus
Zoo, will present and introduce some live
animal friends. Columbus Audubon's an-
nual Member's Dinner will begin at 7 pm,
with the main program at 7:30 pm. Program
is free and open to the public. Grange Insur-
ance Audubon Center in Columbus. See
www.columbusaudubon.org.
Community Events (Continued from page 10)
Page 12
NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID PERMIT # 787 COLUMBUS, OHIO
Sierra Club Central Ohio Group
131 North High Street, Suite 605
Columbus, OH 43215-3026
Printed on 100% recycled paper.
Page 12
Sierra Club Central Ohio Group Directory
For E-mail addresses, see the Directory on the Central Ohio Group website at
www.ohio.sierraclub.org/central
The Central Ohio Sierran ...is published quarterly by the Central
Ohio Group of the Sierra Club. Printing: full
circulation once a year to the membership, as
well as regular distribution to public loca-
tions and on our website to reach over 6,000
members and supporters.
Articles published in the newsletter also
appear on the Central Ohio Group website.
Visit our website at www.ohio.sierraclub.org/central
Join the conversation on
our Google+ page. Go to:
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We are on Facebook
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Central Ohio Group.
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Our club email: sierracog(at)gmail.com
Send address changes to: Sierra Club Member Services
P.O. Box 421041
Palm Coast, FL 32142-1041
or Email:
[email protected]
Chair David Roseman*
Vice-Chair Amber Bellamy*2
Treasurer Kathryn O'Keefe*
Secretary Emma Beasley*
Conservation Committee Co-Chairs Amber Bellamy*2 Ben Wickizer
Political Committee Chair Melanie Braithwaite*1
Programs Coordinator Natasha Ghica*
Newsletter, Communications, Outreach Susan Belair*
Publicity Chair Emma Beasley*
Membership Coordinator Christina Steiner*
Outings Chair Line Martineau*
Newsletter Copy Editor Maryann Kafer
Newsletter Layout Editor Madeline Shaw
Webmasters Bob Snider Matthew Baker
Sierra Club Ohio Chapter Staff
Matt Trokan Clean Water Conservation Manager 443-889-7222
Amanda Keith Clean Water 614-330-8547
Brian Kunkemoeller Clean Energy/Fracking 614-461-0734 x310
Samantha Allen Clean Energy/Fracking 614-461-0734 x 313
Neil Waggoner National, Organizing Rep Beyond Coal 614-484-7033
*Denotes member of the ExCom for 2014. 1 Representative to the Ohio Chapter 2 Alternate Rep. to Ohio Chapter