2012 News & Updates, news-and-updates, Energy and Environmental Affairs, Commonwealth of Massachusetts 2012 News & Updates,Energy and Environmental Affairs,Commonwealth of Massachusetts http://www.mass.gov/eea/news-and-updates/2012-news-and-updates.xml http://www.mass.gov/eea/news-and-updates/2012-news-and-updates.html © 2011 Commonwealth of Massachusetts 2011-10-06T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Awards PARC Grants to Seven Massachusetts Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/press-release-re-parc-grants-to-seven-ma-communities.html 2012-12-19T00:00:00Z 2012-12-19T00:00:00Z

SALEM – Wednesday, December 19, 2012 – Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary (EEA) Rick Sullivan today announced $2,700,000 in grants have been awarded to Boston and six surrounding communities that will enhance parks and recreational facilities as the part of the Parkland Acquisitions and Renovations for Communities (PARC) Program.

 State Agricultural Officials Urge Caution When Choosing Pets As Presents Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/officials-urge-caution-when-choosing-pets-as-presents.html 2012-12-14T00:00:00Z 2012-12-14T00:00:00Z State Environmental Officials Celebrate Restoration of Cheshire’s Thunder Brook Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/pr-re-restoration-of-cheshires-thunder-brook.html 2012-12-14T00:00:00Z 2012-12-14T00:00:00Z Massachusetts Agriculture Officials Encourage Consumers to "Gift Local" this Year Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/pr-mass-agriculture-office-encourage.html 2012-12-14T00:00:00Z 2012-12-14T00:00:00Z

BOSTON – Monday, December 17, 2012 – With the holiday season underway, Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) officials are encouraging consumers to “gift local” this year – by choosing from the wide variety of local food, farm and ornamental items found right here in Massachusetts.

 Patrick-Murray Administration Celebrates Seven New Green Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/press-release-re-seven-new-green-communities.html 2012-12-13T00:00:00Z 2012-12-13T00:00:00Z 10 a.m.: EEA Secretary Sullivan and the Department of Public Utilities to Announce Findings in 2011 Storm Investigations Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/media-advisory-re-findings-in-2011-storm-investigations.html 2012-12-11T00:00:00Z 2012-12-11T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Awards PARC Grants to Marlborough and Waltham Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121206-parc-grants.html 2012-12-06T00:00:00Z 2012-12-06T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Awards $3 Million in Grants to Protect 862 Acres of Land in 13 Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121205-land-grants.html 2012-12-05T00:00:00Z 2012-12-05T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Awards PARC Grants to Seven Western Massachusetts Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121205-parc-grants.html 2012-12-05T00:00:00Z 2012-12-05T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Awards $1.5 Million in PARC Grants to Four Southeastern Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121204-parc-grants.html 2012-12-04T00:00:00Z 2012-12-04T00:00:00Z MassDEP Announces Release of Sustainable Water Management Initiative Framework Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.govhttp://www.mass.gov/dep/public/press/1112swmi.htm 2012-11-28T00:00:00Z 2012-11-28T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Highlights Home Energy Initiative, Additional Incentives Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121126-home-energy.html 2012-11-26T00:00:00Z 2012-11-26T00:00:00Z Department of Public Utilities Approves NSTAR Contract for Offshore Wind Power Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121126-nstar-wind.html 2012-11-26T00:00:00Z 2012-11-26T00:00:00Z DAR Commissioner Watson Helps Kick Off the Holiday Season with Annual Christmas Tree Cutting Ceremony Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121123-tree-cutting.html 2012-11-23T00:00:00Z 2012-11-23T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Six Grants for Local Communities to Protect Coastal Water Quality Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121120-coastal-water-grants.html 2012-11-20T00:00:00Z 2012-11-20T00:00:00Z Notice: Fiscal Year 2014 EEA Budget Hearings Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/docs/eea/budgethearingsfy14draft.pdf 2012-11-19T00:00:00Z 2012-11-19T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Federal Approval to Develop First-in-the-Nation Facility for Offshore Wind Deployment Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121119-nb-commerce-terminal.html 2012-11-19T00:00:00Z 2012-11-19T00:00:00Z State Environmental Officials Announce Completion of Plymouth's Lower Wellingsley Brook Restoration Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121116-brook-restoration.html 2012-11-16T00:00:00Z 2012-11-16T00:00:00Z Renewed Commitment to Energy Efficiency to Provide Unprecedented Electricity and Natural Gas Benefits for Consumers, Environment, and the Economy Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121114-energy-plans.html 2012-11-14T00:00:00Z 2012-11-14T00:00:00Z State Energy and Environmental Officials Host Federal Officials for Public Meetings on the Offshore Wind Development Process Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121109-offshore-wind-meetings.html 2012-11-09T00:00:00Z 2012-11-09T00:00:00Z Massachusetts Agricultural Officials Highlight Local Food and Farming This Holiday Season Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/pr-re-local-food-and-farming-this-holiday-season.html 2012-11-08T00:00:00Z 2012-11-08T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Federal Grants to Five Buzzards Bay Watershed Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121105-watershed-grants.html 2012-11-05T00:00:00Z 2012-11-05T00:00:00Z DPU Cuts Proposed New Charges for Bay State Gas Company Customers by $21M; Residential Customer Bills Will Actually Decrease Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/dpu-cuts-proposed-new-charges-for-bay-state-gas-company.html 2012-11-02T00:00:00Z 2012-11-02T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Completion of the Alewife Greenway Bike Path Project Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/press-release-re-alewife-greenway-bike-path-project.html 2012-10-26T00:00:00Z 2012-10-26T00:00:00Z PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION PRESENTS 6th ANNUAL LEADING BY EXAMPLE AWARDS Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121025-awrds.html 2012-10-25T00:00:00Z 2012-10-25T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces $786,100 in Tornado Relief Grants for Brimfield and Sturbridge Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121024-tornado-grants.html 2012-10-24T00:00:00Z 2012-10-24T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Tornado Relief Grant for West Springfield Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121023-tornado-grant-west-springfield.html 2012-10-23T00:00:00Z 2012-10-23T00:00:00Z PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES 27 GRANTS FOR ENERGY PROJECTS AT MASSACHUSETTS FARMS Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121023-farm-grants.html 2012-10-23T00:00:00Z 2012-10-23T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces $286,110 Tornado Relief Grant for Wilbraham Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121023-wilbraham-grant.html 2012-10-23T00:00:00Z 2012-10-23T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Tornado Relief Grant for Southbridge Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121019-southbridge-tornado-relief.html 2012-10-19T00:00:00Z 2012-10-19T00:00:00Z STATE AND FEDERAL ENVIRONMENT OFFICIALS CELEBRATE AMETHYST BROOK RESTORATION Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121017-amethyst-brook-restoration.html 2012-10-17T00:00:00Z 2012-10-17T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Continued Energy Savings in Second Year of Statewide Energy Efficiency Plans Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121017-energy-plans.html 2012-10-17T00:00:00Z 2012-10-17T00:00:00Z BOSTON STUDENTS AND STATE ENVIRONMENTAL OFFICIALS CELEBRATE COASTSWEEP’S 25TH ANNIVERSARY Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121011-coastsweep.html 2012-10-11T00:00:00Z 2012-10-11T00:00:00Z PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION CELEBRATE GROUNDBREAKING OF BLACKSTONE GREENWAY PROJECT Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121011-blackstone-greenway.html 2012-10-11T00:00:00Z 2012-10-11T00:00:00Z Governor Patrick Announces $267 Million Investment in Energy and Environment as Part of 2013 Capital Plan Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121010-capital-investment.html 2012-10-10T00:00:00Z 2012-10-10T00:00:00Z Massachusetts Agriculture Officials Announce $439,000 in Federal Grants from USDA to Market Massachusetts Specialty Crops Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121010-specialty-crop-grants.html 2012-10-10T00:00:00Z 2012-10-10T00:00:00Z PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES CLEAN ENERGY GRANTS FOR THREE COMMUNTIY COLLEGES Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/clean-energy-grants-for-three-community-colleges.html 2012-10-09T00:00:00Z 2012-10-09T00:00:00Z PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION CELEBRATES CARVER ARRA-FUNDED SOLAR PANEL INSTALLATION Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121005-carver-solar.html 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z STATE AGRICULTURE OFFICIALS ENCOURAGE RESIDENTS AND VISITORS TO CELEBRATE THE PUMPKIN HARVEST Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121005-pumpkin-harvest.html 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION PROCLAIMS OCTOBER 6 AS MASSACHUSETTS LOBSTER DAY Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121005-lobster-day.html 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration to Announce Clean Energy Grants for Three Community Colleges Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121005-college-energy-grants.html 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z Environmental Agencies Adopt Plan to Reduce Toxic Chemical Use by Dry Cleaners Across Commonwealth Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121005-reduce-toxic-chemical-use.html 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z STATE FISHERIES OFFICIALS TO JUDGE SEAFOOD CULINARY CONTEST AT BOSTON LOCAL FOOD FESTIVAL Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121005-seafood-judging.html 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z 2012-10-05T00:00:00Z PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES NUMBER ONE RANKING IN ENERGY EFFICIENCY Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121003-ma-number-one.html 2012-10-03T00:00:00Z 2012-10-03T00:00:00Z STATE AGRICULTURE OFFICIALS PROJECT 2012 CRANBERRY CROP TO BE PLENTIFUL Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121003-cranberry-crop.html 2012-10-03T00:00:00Z 2012-10-03T00:00:00Z PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION ANNOUNCES 33 GRANTS FOR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPROVEMENTS AT MASSACHUSETTS FARMS Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121003-farm-environmental-grants.html 2012-10-03T00:00:00Z 2012-10-03T00:00:00Z Springfield Transmission Project Delivers Improved Grid Reliability, Jobs, and Economic Benefits for the Commonwealth Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121002-grid-projects-benefits.html 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION TO INVESTIGATE GRID MODERNIZATION POLICIES Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/121002-grid-modernization.html 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z 2012-10-02T00:00:00Z MASSACHUSETTS DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES A RECIPIENT OF “BRIGHT IDEAS” FOR ITS MASSGROWN & FRESHER INITIATIVE Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120925-massgrown-bright-idea.html 2012-09-25T00:00:00Z 2012-09-25T00:00:00Z State Wildlife Officials and Anglers Celebrate Sandwich Fish Hatchery 100th Anniversary Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120919-sandwitch-fish-hatchery.html 2012-09-19T00:00:00Z 2012-09-19T00:00:00Z PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION RECEIVES GRANT TO DEVELOP GROUNDBREAKING EVALUATION TOOL FOR GLOBAL WARMING INITIATIVES Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120919-evaluation-tool-grant.html 2012-09-19T00:00:00Z 2012-09-19T00:00:00Z PATRICK-MURRAY ADMINISTRATION RECOGNIZES BIG Y FOODS FOR ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL EFFORTS Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120918-big-y-recognized.html 2012-09-18T00:00:00Z 2012-09-18T00:00:00Z Massachusetts Environmental Police Remind Canoeists and Kayakers of Lifejacket Regulations Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120914-life-jackets.html 2012-09-14T00:00:00Z 2012-09-14T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Secures Federal Disaster Declaration for Massachusetts Fishermen Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120913-ma-fishermen-disaster-declaration.html 2012-09-13T00:00:00Z 2012-09-13T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Seeks K-12 School Nominees for Federal Green Ribbon Schools Award Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120910-green-ribbon-award-applicant-search.html 2012-09-10T00:00:00Z 2012-09-10T00:00:00Z State’s Annual Volunteer Beach Cleanup, COASTSWEEP, Celebrates its 25th Anniversary Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120905-25th-coastsweep.html 2012-09-05T00:00:00Z 2012-09-05T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Proclaims September Apple Month Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120905-sept-apple-month.html 2012-09-05T00:00:00Z 2012-09-05T00:00:00Z State Environmental Officials Celebrate Construction of Boat Ramp and Sport Fishing Pier on Bass River in Yarmouth Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120829-boat-ramp.html 2012-08-29T00:00:00Z 2012-08-29T00:00:00Z State Agricultural Officials Highlight Fall Apple Harvest Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120829-apple-harvest.html 2012-08-29T00:00:00Z 2012-08-29T00:00:00Z State Agriculture and Forestry Officials Urge Forest Pest Awareness Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120828-forest-pests.html 2012-08-28T00:00:00Z 2012-08-28T00:00:00Z STATE ENERGY OFFICIALS PRESENT GREEN COMMUNITIES AWARDS TO ASHLAND, AUBURN Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120827-gc-awards.html 2012-08-27T00:00:00Z 2012-08-27T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces 15 Grants for Water Protection, Habitat Restoration and Education in 10 Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120824-met-grants.html 2012-08-24T00:00:00Z 2012-08-24T00:00:00Z Energy Loans, Grants Still Available for Tornado Victims Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120822-tornado-grants.html 2012-08-22T00:00:00Z 2012-08-22T00:00:00Z State and Federal Scientists to Study Seafloor Aboard Research Vessel Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120821-seafloor-study.html 2012-08-21T00:00:00Z 2012-08-21T00:00:00Z State Energy Officials Present Green Communities Award to Lakeville Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120821-lakeville-gc-award.html 2012-08-21T00:00:00Z 2012-08-21T00:00:00Z Massachusetts Tomato Contest Draws 84 Entries Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120820-tomato-contest.html 2012-08-20T00:00:00Z 2012-08-20T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces New Ecological Restoration Projects Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120821-pr-eco-projects.html 2012-08-20T00:00:00Z 2012-08-20T00:00:00Z Governor Patrick Proclaims August 19-25 Massachusetts Farmers’ Market Week Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120817-pr-farmers-markets-week.html 2012-08-17T00:00:00Z 2012-08-17T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Enactment of Biomass Regulations Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120817-pr-biomass.html 2012-08-17T00:00:00Z 2012-08-17T00:00:00Z State Energy Officials Present Green Communities Awards to Tisbury and West Tisbury Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120817-pr-2-gc-awards.html 2012-08-17T00:00:00Z 2012-08-17T00:00:00Z MassCEC Announces 11% Job Growth in Massachusetts Clean Energy Sector Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120816-pr-clean-energy-job-growth.html 2012-08-16T00:00:00Z 2012-08-16T00:00:00Z State Energy Officials Present Green Communities Awards to Leominster, Berlin, Townsend Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120813-pr-3-gc-awards.html 2012-08-13T00:00:00Z 2012-08-13T00:00:00Z State Energy Officials Present Green Communities Awards to Amherst, Conway, Gill, Huntington, Northfield, Pelham and Sunderland Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120813-pr-7-gc-awards.html 2012-08-13T00:00:00Z 2012-08-13T00:00:00Z Governor Patrick Proclaims August 11 "811 Day" Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/1208120-pr-811-day.html 2012-08-10T00:00:00Z 2012-08-10T00:00:00Z State Officials Present Green Communities Awards to Great Barrington and Richmond Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120808-pr-gc-awards.html 2012-08-08T00:00:00Z 2012-08-08T00:00:00Z Governor Patrick Signs Energy Bill Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.govhttp://www.mass.gov/governor/pressoffice/pressreleases/2012/2012803-governor-patrick-signs-energy-bill.html 2012-08-07T00:00:00Z 2012-08-07T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Launches Revolving Loan Fund for Massachusetts Fishermen Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120803-pr-fisherman-loan-fund.html 2012-08-03T00:00:00Z 2012-08-03T00:00:00Z Department of Public Utilities Announces Approval of National Grid’s Smart Grid Pilot Program Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120803-pr-dpu-approves-smart-grid-pilot.html 2012-08-03T00:00:00Z 2012-08-03T00:00:00Z Massachusetts Launches Regional Renewable Energy Initiative with Other 5 New England States Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120730-pr-ne-regional-energy-initiative.html 2012-07-30T00:00:00Z 2012-07-30T00:00:00Z Secretary Sullivan Appoints New Massachusetts Clean Energy Center Chief Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/new-massachusetts-clean-energy-center-chief-appointed.html 2012-07-25T00:00:00Z 2012-07-25T00:00:00Z

BOSTON – Wednesday, July 25, 2012 – Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rick Sullivan today announced the appointment of Alicia Barton McDevitt as the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center (MassCEC).

 State Marine Officials and Volunteers Work to Enhance Boston Harbor’s Soft Shell Clam Resources Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/press-release-boston-harbors-softshell-clam-resources.html 2012-07-25T00:00:00Z 2012-07-25T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Federal Grant Award for School, Public Housing Energy Efficiency Projects Statewide Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/patrick-administration-announces-federal-grant.html 2012-07-23T00:00:00Z 2012-07-23T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Secures No Discharge Area Designation for Cape Cod and Islands Coastal Waters Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/press-release-re-cape-cod-and-islands-coastal-waters-.html 2012-07-20T00:00:00Z 2012-07-20T00:00:00Z State Agriculture Officials Celebrate Fair Season Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/state-agriculture-officials-celebrate-fair-season.html 2012-07-20T00:00:00Z 2012-07-20T00:00:00Z State Energy and Environment and BOEM Officials Convene Public Meetings on the Offshore Wind Development Process Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120713-pr-offshore-wind-mtgs.html 2012-07-13T00:00:00Z 2012-07-13T00:00:00Z Marine Officials Urge Boaters to Report Entangled Endangered Leatherback Sea Turtles Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120712-pr-sea-turtles.html 2012-07-13T00:00:00Z 2012-07-13T00:00:00Z State Environmental Officials Dedicate New Canoe Access Facility on Weymouth’s Fore River Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120712-pr-fore-river-canoe-access.html 2012-07-12T00:00:00Z 2012-07-12T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Georgetown and Lancaster Eligible for $3.7 M in Clean Energy Financing Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120710-pr-clean-energy-financing.html 2012-07-10T00:00:00Z 2012-07-10T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Appoints a Global Warming Solutions Advisory Committee Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120710-pr-gwsa-committee-appointed.html 2012-07-10T00:00:00Z 2012-07-10T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Completion of 18 Fishing and Boating Access Projects Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120705-pr-boating-projects-completed.html 2012-07-05T00:00:00Z 2012-07-05T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Secures No Discharge Area Designation for Mount Hope Bay Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120629-pr-mount-hope-bay.html 2012-06-29T00:00:00Z 2012-06-29T00:00:00Z State and Federal Wildlife Officials Work With Local Partners to Restore Shad in Charles River Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120629-pr-shad-restoration.html 2012-06-29T00:00:00Z 2012-06-29T00:00:00Z Agriculture Officials Encourage Massachusetts Residents to Enjoy Locally Grown Blueberries Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120629-pr-local-blueberries.html 2012-06-29T00:00:00Z 2012-06-29T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Awards Springfield and Monson $1.9 Million in Tornado Relief Grants Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120628-pr-tornado-relief.html 2012-06-28T00:00:00Z 2012-06-28T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Presents First Ever Green Communities Competitive Grants to 19 Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120628-pr-1st-green-comm-grants.html 2012-06-28T00:00:00Z 2012-06-28T00:00:00Z State Wildlife Officials Release Bald Eagle Chicks in Tyngsborough Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120627-pr-bald-eagle-chicks-released.html 2012-06-27T00:00:00Z 2012-06-27T00:00:00Z State Wildlife Officials Report Capture of Cape Cod Bear in Brookline Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120626-pr-bear-in-brookline.html 2012-06-26T00:00:00Z 2012-06-26T00:00:00Z Massachusetts Agriculture Officials Kick off Farmers' Market Season Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120625-pr-farmers-markets-seasons.html 2012-06-25T00:00:00Z 2012-06-25T00:00:00Z State Wildlife Officials Report on Cape Cod Bear Capture and Relocation Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120612-pr-cape-cod-bear.html 2012-06-12T00:00:00Z 2012-06-12T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Presents Green Communities Awards to Bridgewater, Quincy, Weston Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120606-green-awards.html 2012-06-06T00:00:00Z 2012-06-06T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Releases 2011 Report on Land Protection Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120605-pr-land-protection-report.html 2012-06-05T00:00:00Z 2012-06-05T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces 10 Companies Interested in Offshore Wind Development in Federal Waters off Massachusetts Coast Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120604-pr-offshore-wind.html 2012-06-04T00:00:00Z 2012-06-04T00:00:00Z State Agriculture Officials Announce the Arrival of Strawberry Season Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120601-strawberry-season.html 2012-06-01T00:00:00Z 2012-06-01T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Reports on Annual Performance of Green Communities Act Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120601-pr-annual-performance.html 2012-06-01T00:00:00Z 2012-06-01T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Reduction in Toxic Chemical Use Among Massachusetts Companies Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120601-pr-toxic-chemical-report.html 2012-06-01T00:00:00Z 2012-06-01T00:00:00Z State Environmental Officials Celebrate June as Great Outdoors Month Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120601-pr-great-outdoors-month.html 2012-06-01T00:00:00Z 2012-06-01T00:00:00Z Massachusetts Environmental Police Urge Safe Off-Highway Vehicle Use Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120525-safe-ohv-use-urged.html 2012-05-25T00:00:00Z 2012-05-25T00:00:00Z

BOSTON – Friday, May 25, 2012 – With the onset of spring and Memorial Day approaching, the Massachusetts Environmental Police (MEP) are reminding off-highway vehicle owners and operators to use safety and obey the law when riding all-terrain vehicles and dirt bikes.

 Patrick-Murray Administration Presents Green Communities Award to Provincetown Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/press-release-green-communities-award-to-provincetown.html 2012-05-24T00:00:00Z 2012-05-24T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces New Recreational Trails Policy in 14 Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120522-pr-rec-trails-policy.html 2012-05-22T00:00:00Z 2012-05-22T00:00:00Z

BOSTON – May 22, 2012 – Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rick Sullivan and Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) Executive Director Fred Laskey today announced a new policy for public access to open space along historic aqueducts in 14 communities across the state.

 Average Monthly Household Electric Bill at Six Year Low Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120517-pr-electricity-prices-6-year-low.html 2012-05-17T00:00:00Z 2012-05-17T00:00:00Z

BOSTON – Thursday, May 17, 2012 – The Department of Public Utilities (DPU) yesterday approved NSTAR’s lowest electric rates since 2004, the latest example of how falling natural gas prices have benefited Massachusetts ratepayers. Driven by lower prices for natural gas used to fuel power plants, electricity prices have dropped significantly from their peak in 2008 and 2009, resulting in total household bills reduced by almost 25 percent. Average bills for residential customers have dropped from about $150 per month to about $112 today. 

 State Officials Urge Residents to Follow Safe Boating Practices Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120517-pr-safe-boating-urged.html 2012-05-17T00:00:00Z 2012-05-17T00:00:00Z

BOSTON – Thursday May 17, 2012 – With Memorial Day and Safe Boating Week approaching, the Massachusetts Environmental Police urge boaters to make this a safe boating season. In addition to wearing lifejackets, state officials recommend that boaters take a boating safety course, operate boats only while sober and make sure their boats have the required safety equipment onboard.

 State Agriculture Officials Remind Horse Owners to Vaccinate Against Mosquito-Borne Diseases Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120510-pr-equine-vaccinations.html 2012-05-10T00:00:00Z 2012-05-10T00:00:00Z

BOSTON – Thursday, May 10, 2012 – With the mosquito season approaching, officials from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) are advising horse owners to take preventative measures to protect animals against mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus (WNV) and Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus (EEE).

 Patrick-Murray Administration Presents Green Communities Award to Beverly Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120510-pr-beverly-green-award.html 2012-05-10T00:00:00Z 2012-05-10T00:00:00Z

BEVERLY – Thursday, May 10, 2011 -- Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. and Department of Energy Resources (DOER) Commissioner Mark Sylvia today presented a $206,475 grant to the city of Beverly, one of the state's newest Green Communities, to fund clean energy projects at city schools

 State Environmental Officials Celebrate Wetlands and Rivers Months with Events Across Massachusetts in May and June Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120509-pr-wetlands-rivers-months.html 2012-05-09T00:00:00Z 2012-05-09T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Wednesday, May 9, 2012 – As warmer spring weather draws outdoor enthusiasts to the Commonwealth's waterways, officials from the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game (DFG) today announced its springtime calendar marking May and June as "Massachusetts Rivers and Wetlands Months" with outdoor events across the state.

 Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Southeastern Massachusetts Bioreserve Land Acquisitions Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120504-pr-se-ma-bioreserve-land.html 2012-05-07T00:00:00Z 2012-05-07T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Recognizes 26 Programs for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120507-pr-excellence-education.html 2012-05-07T00:00:00Z 2012-05-07T00:00:00Z EEA Secretary Sullivan to Honor Students for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education at State House on Monday Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120504-adv-honor-students.html 2012-05-04T00:00:00Z 2012-05-04T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Awards $2 million 12 Green Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/two-million-12-green-communities.html 2012-05-01T00:00:00Z 2012-05-01T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Public Comment Period for Revisions to Biomass Regulation Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/public-comment-period-for-biomass-regulations-revisions.html 2012-04-27T00:00:00Z 2012-04-27T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Unveils New Electric Vehicle License Plates Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120424-pr-ev-plates.html 2012-04-24T00:00:00Z 2012-04-24T00:00:00Z Governor Patrick Celebrates Annual Trout Stocking at Jamaica Pond Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120417-pr-trout-stocking.html 2012-04-17T00:00:00Z 2012-04-17T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Awards $500,000 Grant to Town of Ashland to Protect 101 Acres of Land Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120417-ashland-grant.html 2012-04-17T00:00:00Z 2012-04-17T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Solar Program Benefiting 17 Massachusetts Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120412-pr-solar-program.html 2012-04-12T00:00:00Z 2012-04-12T00:00:00Z State Officials Issue Economic Impact Report on Ecological Restoration Projects Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120404-pr-economic-rpt-eco-projects.html 2012-04-06T00:00:00Z 2012-04-06T00:00:00Z Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities Announces Approval of NSTAR-NU Merger Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/ma-dpu-announces-approval-of-nstar-nu-merger.html 2012-04-05T00:00:00Z 2012-04-05T00:00:00Z Governor Patrick thanks Commissioner Soares for his service, swears-in Gregory Watson as new Commissioner of Agriculture Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120404-pr-agriculture-commissioner-named.html 2012-04-04T00:00:00Z 2012-04-04T00:00:00Z DPU Cuts Proposed New Charges for Aquarion Water Customers by Almost 50 Percent of Amount Requested Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120330-pr-aquarion-water-rate-cut.html 2012-03-30T00:00:00Z 2012-03-30T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Nominates Mount Hope Bay for Boat Waste Discharge Ban Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120329-pr-mt-hope-bay.html 2012-03-29T00:00:00Z 2012-03-29T00:00:00Z State Officials Honor Martha’s Vineyard Native John Hughes Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120323-pr-honoring-john-hughes.html 2012-03-23T00:00:00Z 2012-03-23T00:00:00Z EEA Secretary Sullivan Calls on App Developers to Submit 'Get Outdoors' Mobile App Contest Entries by March 30 Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120322-pr-mobile-app-deadline.html 2012-03-22T00:00:00Z 2012-03-22T00:00:00Z EEA Kicks Off 2012 Conservation Land Tax Credit Program Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120322-pr-land-tax-credit.html 2012-03-22T00:00:00Z 2012-03-22T00:00:00Z State Agricultural Officials Promote Spring Rabies Clinics Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120320-pr-spring-rabies-clinics.html 2012-03-20T00:00:00Z 2012-03-20T00:00:00Z Massachusetts Wineries Report 66 Percent Increase in Sales; Hiring Boost Thanks to Farmers' Markets Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120315-pr-farmers-mkts-boost-wineries.html 2012-03-15T00:00:00Z 2012-03-15T00:00:00Z Public Market Commission Public Meeting in Boston Tomorrow Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120312-adv-publick-mkt-mtg.html 2012-03-12T00:00:00Z 2012-03-12T00:00:00Z

(Media Advisory) The Public Market Commission, tasked with defining the mission of a public market in downtown Boston, will hold a public meeting on Tuesday, March 13 at 6:30 p.m. in Boston to hear a presentation of the proposal submitted by the Boston Public Market Association (BPMA) to operate the public market.

 Patrick-Murray Administration Asks Utilities to Extend Winter Shut-off Protection for Vulnerable Consumers Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120306-pr-utility-shutoff-extension.html 2012-03-06T00:00:00Z 2012-03-06T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON -- Tuesday, March 6, 2012 -- Citing continued economic challenges for Massachusetts' most vulnerable populations, the Massachusetts Department of Public Utilities (DPU) has asked each of the state’s electric and natural gas companies to extend by a month the moratorium on winter utility shut-offs for low income customers -- requesting that companies voluntarily refrain from initiating any termination proceedings until April 16.

 Patrick-Murray Administration Nominates Cape Cod and Islands Coastal Waters for Boat Waste Discharge Ban Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120305-pr-coastal-boat-waste-ban.html 2012-03-05T00:00:00Z 2012-03-05T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Monday, March 5, 2012 – Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. today submitted an application to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to designate state waters south of Cape Cod and surrounding Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard as the South Cape Cod and Islands No Discharge Area (NDA). The designation would prohibit the discharge of any treated or untreated boat sewage in the area, which encompasses 807 square miles.

 Commonwealth Agriculture Officials Kick Off Maple Month Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120302-pr-kick-of-maple-month.html 2012-03-02T00:00:00Z 2012-03-02T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) WILLIAMSBURG – Friday, March 2, 2012 – Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) Commissioner Scott J. Soares today announced the start of the Massachusetts maple sugaring season and marked the occasion by participating in the ceremonial tapping of a sugar maple tree at Paul's Sugarhouse in Williamsburg. Heralding the onset of the growing season, maple sugaring is the state’s first agricultural harvest of the year.

 State Environmental Officials Launch New Online Coastal Mapping Tool Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120228-pr-online-coastal-mapping-tool.html 2012-02-28T00:00:00Z 2012-02-28T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Tuesday, February 28, 2012 – Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. today announced the release of a new web-based coastal mapping tool that provides detailed geographic data for ocean planning, coastal development, public safety, tourism, transportation planning and marine environmental protection. The new Massachusetts Ocean Resource Information System (MORIS) is used for searching data related to the coastal zone and creating maps displaying those data.

 Patrick-Murray Administration Announces $1 Million Federal Grant to Restore Saugus’ Rumney Marshes Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120227-pr-saugus-rumney-marshes-grant.html 2012-02-27T00:00:00Z 2012-02-27T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Monday, February 27, 2012 – The Patrick-Murray Administration today announced $1 million in funding to restore Rumney Marsh in Saugus from the Obama Administration's U.S Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) National Coastal Wetland Conservation Grant Program (NCWCG).

 Patrick-Murray Administration Awards $14 Million to Improve 27 Parks in 25 Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120217-pr-parks-awards.html 2012-02-17T00:00:00Z 2012-02-17T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Tuesday, January 17, 2012 – Lieutenant Governor Timothy Murray and Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. today announced more than $14 million in grants to enhance parks and recreational facilities in 25 communities throughout the Commonwealth.

 Department of Energy Resources Announces Settlement Agreement, Aligning NSTAR-NU Merger with Patrick-Murray Administration’s Clean Energy Goals Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120215-pr-nstar-nu-merger.html 2012-02-15T00:00:00Z 2012-02-15T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Wednesday, February 15, 2012 – The Department of Energy Resources (DOER) and NSTAR today filed with the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) a proposed settlement agreement that stipulates a series of provisions to freeze rates, provide an immediate credit to customers, increase financial transparency and purchase more clean energy as conditions of NSTAR’s proposed merger with Connecticut-based Northeast Utilities (NU).

 EEA Secretary Sullivan Marks Completion of the Financing Forest Conservation Commission Report Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120213-pr-forest-consv-comm-rpt.html 2012-02-13T00:00:00Z 2012-02-13T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Monday, February 13, 2012 – Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. was joined today at the State House by forest and conservation leaders along with state legislators to celebrate the completion of a land conservation report by the Massachusetts Commission on Financing Forest Conservation. 

 USDA Awards Massachusetts $400,000 for Specialty Crop Producers Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120213-pr-usda-awards.html 2012-02-13T00:00:00Z 2012-02-13T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Monday, February 13, 2012 – Officials from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) today announced that $400,000 will be made available to specialty crop producers through funding from the US Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Specialty Crop Block Grant Program. The grants will help strengthen the market for Massachusetts specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture and nursery crops. With the awarding of these grants, DAR is beginning the Request for Response (RFR) process.

 State Fish and Wildlife Officials Present 2011 Sport Fishing Awards Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120210-pr-sport-fishing-awards.html 2012-02-10T00:00:00Z 2012-02-10T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Friday, February 10, 2012 – This weekend, officials from the Massachusetts Department of Fish and Game (DFG) will host two ceremonies honoring more than 80 of the state's top freshwater and saltwater anglers at the Eastern Fishing & Outdoor Exposition at the DCU Center in Worcester. On Saturday, February 11, DFG’s Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildife) Director Wayne MacCallum will present the annual Freshwater Sportfishing Awards. On Sunday, February 12, DFG Commissioner Mary Griffin and Division of Marine Fisheries (DMF) Director Paul Diodati will recognize winners of the Saltwater Fishing Derby. 

 State Energy and Environment Officials Host Federal Officials for Public Meetings on the Offshore Wind Development Process Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120210-adv-offshore-wind-public-mtgs.html 2012-02-10T00:00:00Z 2012-02-10T00:00:00Z

(Media Advisory) During the week of February 13, 2012, officials from the Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) will participate in multiple U.S. Department of the Interior Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) public meetings, with locations in Martha’s Vineyard, New Bedford and Boston. The purpose of the meetings is to provide information and take public comment on BOEM’s issuance of a Call for Information and Nominations and Notice of Intent to prepare an Environmental Assessment for the potential development of offshore wind energy projects in an area of federal waters on the Outer Continental Shelf south of Massachusetts

 Patrick-Murray Administration Awards Five Grants to Local Communities to Protect Coastal Water Quality Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120208-pr-5-coastal-grants.html 2012-02-08T00:00:00Z 2012-02-08T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Wednesday, February 8, 2012 – Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. today announced $400,000 in grants through the Coastal Pollution Remediation (CPR) grant program for five projects designed to protect Massachusetts coastal waters. The projects receiving funding include efforts to design and implement controls for runoff pollution from roadways and parking areas and the installation of a boat pumpout facility for both commercial and recreational vessels. Recipients of CPR funding awards include the communities of Duxbury, Hingham, Ipswich, Marshfield, and Plymouth. Municipal sources will match the grants with $247,000 – further extending the power of the grant program.

 Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Federal Grants to Protect Commonwealth’s Coastal Water Quality and Habitats Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120207-pr-coastal-grants.html 2012-02-07T00:00:00Z 2012-02-07T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON — Tuesday, February 7, 2012 – The Patrick-Murray Administration today announced $135,000 in federal funding to support eight projects across the Commonwealth designed to protect coastal waters through the Massachusetts Bays Program Research and Planning Grants. The projects will help identify the causes of coastal habitat degradation, develop plans to address coastal water quality pollution and protect coastlines across Massachusetts.

 Federal and State Environmental Officials Make Announcement Relating to Offshore Wind Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/media-advisory-announcement-relating-to-offshore-wind.html 2012-02-03T00:00:00Z 2012-02-03T00:00:00Z Patrick-Murray Administration Announces Grants to Fund Four Municipal Power Energy Efficiency Projects in Chicopee, Ipswich, Reading and Westfield Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/grants-fund-four-municipal-energy-efficiency-projects.html 2012-02-03T00:00:00Z 2012-02-03T00:00:00Z

(Press Releasse) BOSTON – February 3, 2011 – Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. today announced $200,000 in grants for energy efficiency projects to municipal power companies serving four communities: Chicopee, Ipswich, Reading and Westfield. For the first time, state funds energy efficiency programs at municipal light and power companies.

 Patrick-Murray Administration Launching Loan Fund for Commercial Fishermen Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120131-pr-commercial-fisherman-loan-fund.html 2012-01-31T00:00:00Z 2012-01-31T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Tuesday, January 31, 2012 – The Patrick-Murray Administration today announced that Massachusetts is creating a new Commercial Fisheries Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) – the first of its kind in New England – designed to help bridge the gap for commercial fishermen as they transition to the new sector management program for groundfish.

 State Agriculture Officials Award Funds to Promote Local Agriculture Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120127-pr-local-agriculture-funds.html 2012-01-27T00:00:00Z 2012-01-27T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Friday, January 27, 2012 – Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources (DAR) Commissioner Scott J. Soares today announced $200,000 in grants to three agricultural organizations for projects to enhance regional Buy Local efforts in Western, Central, Northeastern and Southeastern Massachusetts

 Patrick-Murray Administration Awards $3.6 Million for Parks in Six Western Massachusetts Communities Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120124-pr-park-grants.html 2012-01-24T00:00:00Z 2012-01-24T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) SPRINGFIELD – Tuesday, January 24, 2012 – Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. today announced $3,647,360 in grants to enhance parks and recreational facilities in the communities of Amherst, Holyoke, Northampton, Springfield, Westfield and Wilbraham.

 Wildlife Officials and Volunteers Spot 26 Bald Eagles During Midwinter Bald Eagle Survey Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120117-pr-bald-eagle-survey.html 2012-01-17T00:00:00Z 2012-01-17T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Friday, January 13, 2012 – Secretary of Energy and Environmental Affairs Richard K. Sullivan Jr. today announced that an annual survey of wintering bald eagles conducted throughout the Commonwealth today yielded sightings of 26 individual birds.

 Applications Being Accepted for 2012 Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education Awards Until March 29 Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120111-pr-march-deadline-eeee-awards.html 2012-01-11T00:00:00Z 2012-01-11T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON — Wednesday, January 11, 2012 – The Executive Office of Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) announced today it is accepting nominations for its annual Secretary’s Awards for Excellence in Energy and Environmental Education until Thursday, March 29, 2012. EEA Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. will present awards this spring to Massachusetts teachers and students involved in school-based programs that promote environment and energy education.

 State Wildlife Officials to Hold Bald Eagle Survey Friday Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120111-adv-eagle-survey.html 2012-01-11T00:00:00Z 2012-01-11T00:00:00Z

(Media Advisory) On Friday, January 13, 2012, officials from the Department of Fish and Game’s (DFG) Division of Fisheries and Wildlife (MassWildlife) will conduct a statewide bald eagle survey of the coast and major rivers, lakes, and reservoirs. The Massachusetts survey is part of an annual nationwide Midwinter Bald Eagle Survey that began January 4 and runs through January 18. DFG Commissioner Mary Griffin will view eagles in MassWildlife’s southeast district in Lakeville.

 Environmental Officials Announce New Toxic Chemical Rules Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120111-pr-new-toxic-chem-rules.html 2012-01-11T00:00:00Z 2012-01-11T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – January 11, 2012 – Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. today announced new regulations regarding the use of toxic chemicals in Massachusetts. The regulations, which took effect January 1, increase the number of companies required to report use of some of these chemicals by approximately 20 companies.

 Patrick-Murray Administration Partners with Non-Profit Groups to Protect 409 Acres Across the Commonwealth Energy and Environmental Affairs eea http://www.mass.gov/eea/pr-2012/120105-pr-preserve-open-space.html 2012-01-05T00:00:00Z 2012-01-05T00:00:00Z

(Press Release) BOSTON – Thursday, January 05, 2012 – Energy and Environmental Affairs (EEA) Secretary Richard K. Sullivan Jr. today announced $514,359 in grants to nine nonprofit organizations to preserve 409 acres of open space across Massachusetts.