Stream Days at the Academy for Leadership at Millcreek Elementary

November 18, 2015By 0 comment

IMG_3916Millcreek has a wonderful tradition of having Stream Days twice a year. On these days, every student learns to appreciate the stream that they have behind their school. By seeing the creatures that live there and exploring their school’s landscape, students discover why the health of water matters to everyone and everything and how they can help to keep water clean.

This year kindergarten through second grade went on a wildlife safari where they saw animals that used the stream, including ducks, minnows, and even some aquatic insects.  Third through fifth grade were in the gym due to weather. However, with the help of experiential education extraordinaire and Children’s Garden Education Coordinator at the Arboretum, Emma Trestor-Wilson, the creek was brought to them! They shifted through leaf packets and rocks to discover that a lot of creatures live at the bottom of stream! After that, students played a game with a parachute (remember the multi-colored parachute you used in gym class?) where they tried to clean the litter out of Millcreek and other pollutants out of larger bodies of water. It was wonderful to see students so engaged in an activity where they were practicing cleaning a stream!

The stream itself has gone through a major transformation. It began as nothing more than “eroding, urban ditch” but was restored to “improve water quality, create habitat for animals and aquatic life, and create a facility for environmental education,” according to the sign at Millcreek. This was a major effort put together by 17 agencies and businesses including Toyota, Kentucky Fish and Wild, Ecogro and more!

Millcreek continues to provide a wonderful opportunity for their students to get outside and appreciate nature! The students there truly have something special!  Not only do they have the stream, they have a committed staff.  This includes the teachers, especially Ms. Snowden, who organized the event, and Coach Parr who was so concerned about the litter we found at the creek from stormwater runoff that he led a group of students to do a litter clean up, and an administration that are committed to environmental education. Nice work, Millcreek!

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Call To Artists

October 21, 2015By 0 comment

What?

Bluegrass Greensource seeks  local artists to create works of art on fully functional rain barrels.  This year, the theme for all barrels will be horseracing, and we need you to put your artistic spin on one of only 10 barrels.

Why?

Thousands of people will be exposed to your artwork throughout April and May of next year.  Each barrel will be displayed, along with artist bios and contact information in high volume areas throughout Central Kentucky.  Examples of past display locations include Starbucks on Main Street in Lexington, Magees Bakery and The Hub Coffee Shop in Georgetown.

All rain barrel artists’ contact information will be promoted to supporters who buy plain barrels and who participate in rain barrel making workshops to potentially provide future work.

Additionally, because of the theme, Bluegrass Greensource is actively working to have all of the barrels on display at Keeneland during their spring meet.

When?

Barrels will be displayed in various locations throughout April and May of 2016.  All barrels will be brought together during Bluegrass Greensource’s annual event, GreenFest on May 21st,and will be sold to help fund Bluegrass Greensource’s environmental education activities throughout our region.

How?

  • Submit a rough sketch of your racing barrel idea by November 30, 2015
    • For reference, these are 55 gallon drums that measure 34 1/4 inches tall and 23 1/4 inches in diameter.
  • Artists will be selected and barrels can be picked up on December 15, 2015
  • Completed barrels MUST be returned to Bluegrass Greensource by February 1, 2016
  • Artist Responsibilities
    • Priming the barrel
    • Creating a functional, attractive piece of art that can withstand the weather
      • Acrylic paint works best and artists are not allowed to adhere anything (such as paper, tiles, etc.) to the barrels
      • To help with planning, the spigot is the front of the rain barrel, and the back is usually against a wall.
    • Submit supporting information, including the title of the work, artist’s bio, contact information and a short interpretation of the work at the same time (or before) as the barrel.
  • Bluegrass Greensource Responsibilities
    • $50 will be given to each artist to help defray the cost of supplies
    • Professionally topcoat each barrel
    • Work with local media to give as much exposure to this program as possible

Who?

Bluegrass Greensource is THE source for all things green in Central Kentucky, encouraging small steps toward a sustainable future for our communities.  Formerly known as Bluegrass PRIDE, Bluegrass Greensource is a non-profit organization that provides education and resources on how we affect our environment. Since 2001, we have provided outreach to schools, community groups, businesses, local governments, and citizens throughout Central Kentucky.

Download Our Flyer

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Green News in the Bluegrass – October 2015 Newsletter

October 15, 2015By 0 comment

BRIDGET’S NATIVE TREE PICKS

 

Fall is upon us, and it is the perfect time to think about planting trees. Whether you are planting in the fall or planning for an early spring planting, choosing the right native species for the site is essential for the survival and vigor of the tree. Read More…

ENERGY AUDIT KITS TO THE RESCUE

 

Bluegrass Greensource provides free Energy Audit Kit’s through the public libraries for checkout. The Energy Audit Kit’s are designed to guide you through the first steps of making your home more energy efficient. Read More…

ANNOUNCING: SEPTIC SYSTEM MAINTENANCE WORKSHOP

 

To help improve water quality in the Dix River watershed area, Bluegrass Greensource offers homeowner workshops in Boyle, Garrard, and Lincoln Counties. Participants will learn about local watersheds and water quality, how to properly care for septic systems, and how to identify problems with septic systems. Following the workshop, participants can apply for a cost-share grant for septic system repairs, or for a free septic tank pumpout. To be eligible for the grants, homeowners must reside within the Dix River watershed in Boyle, Garrard, or Lincoln Counties. Read More…

KRA GRANT OPPORTUNITY

 

Wishing you could find some funding to help improve your favorite local stream, river or lake?  Are you located in the Kentucky River Basin? If so, please consider applying for a Kentucky River Authority Watershed Grant. Applications are being accepted until November 16, 2015. Read More…

IT’S COMING!

 

Wait – what’s coming?

It’s mid-October, and that means that we’re less than a month away from one of Central Kentucky’s best events – the Bluegrass Community Foundation and Smiley Pete Publishing’s GoodGivingGuide Challenge. Read More…

BLUEGRASS GREENSOURCE AND GLAA PARTNER TO PROMOTE APARTMENT SUSTAINABILITY

 

Increasing residential sustainability has been one of the primary goals at Bluegrass Greensource since its inception in 2001. This goal serves a double purpose in that it not only benefits the environment, but also offers additional incentives for homeowners looking to save money on utility expenses. But what happens for the thousands of Lexington/Fayette County residents who live in apartments and lack the ability or resources to implement such changes on their own? Read More…

BGGS OPEN HOUSE

 

There was a flurry of activity and much excitement as Bluegrass Greensource Educators hosted an open house for educators in the Bluegrass area.  Educators and students were given the opportunity to learn about environmental activities and materials available to the public. Read More…

CALLING ALL VOLUNTEERS!

 

We will be offering a volunteer training class at our office on Saturday, November 21st. Please let our Volunteer Coordinator, Ashley Bryant-Cheney, know if you are interested in attending!

Check out our Events Calendar to learn more about upcoming green events in your community! Submit your organization’s green event here.

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BGGS Open House

October 15, 2015By 0 comment

There was a flurry of activity and much excitement as Bluegrass Greensource Educators hosted an open house for educators in the Bluegrass area.  Educators and students were given the opportunity to learn about environmental activities and materials available to the public.  While teachers and educators discussed lessons and upcoming events students participated in hands-on activities.  The recycled jewelry table was crowded with older students making earrings and bracelets.  Younger students made animal track books to take home.  Recycled hover crafts made from CDs and bottle caps were a big hit with all age groups!  BGGS educators also modeled how to host a waste free event by using compostable and/or reusable tableware.  If you weren’t able to attend but would like information about activities and materials available to the public please contact Pattie Stivender, our Education Director.

See photos from our event on our Facebook page!

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Bluegrass Greensource and GLAA Partner to Promote Apartment Sustainability

October 15, 2015By 0 comment

Increasing residential sustainability has been one of the primary goals at Bluegrass Greensource since its inception in 2001. This goal serves a double purpose in that it not only benefits the environment, but also offers additional incentives for homeowners looking to save money on utility expenses. But what happens for the thousands of Lexington/Fayette County residents who live in apartments and lack the ability or resources to implement such changes on their own?

Often times the responsibility for increasing sustainability and educating residents falls on the shoulders of apartment managers where the prospect of making substantial changes with limited time and resources can seem rather daunting. Fortunately, this is where Bluegrass Greensource comes into play as a valuable resource for supplying apartment managers with the education and tools they need to become more sustainable.

Recently, Bluegrass Greensource has partnered with the Greater Lexington Apartment Association (GLAA) to provide resources and education to apartment managers about easy to implement, sustainable practices that can help reduce their financial bottom line and increase livability for residents, all while helping the planet. This approach to sustainability, known as the Triple Bottom Line (Profit, People, Planet), was the focus of a recent presentation by Bluegrass Greensource Outreach Staff at the GLAA September General Membership Meeting on September 22nd.

Outreach Specialists Rob Gates and Bridget Abernathy spoke to a crowd of 60+ GLAA members, representing properties throughout Lexington and Fayette County, about the many ways sustainable initiatives can benefit a property’s triple bottom line by minimizing costs, attracting clientele, and gaining a competitive advantage among other properties. The presentation covered a wide array of topics ranging from energy/water conservation, energy efficient purchasing and retrofitting, running a successful recycling program, urban landscaping, proper FOG (Fats, Oils, and Grease) disposal, as well as potential rebates and resources available for implementing such measures.

With all the options available it can be difficult, and somewhat overwhelming, to know where to begin when deciding what sustainable goals are right for each property. Because of this, it is important to note that even small changes can add up over time to make a substantial difference in increasing a property’s sustainability, with the first step being to engage and encourage residents to adopt sustainable practices themselves. Thankfully Bluegrass Greensource is available to help property managers assess their current state of sustainability, identify potential areas of improvement, and provide the resources and expertise required to develop a plan of action to set and achieve attainable goals.

If you are a property manager, or a resident who would like to see your apartment complex become more sustainable, please feel free to contact Rob or Bridget with any additional questions.

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It’s Coming!

October 15, 2015By 0 comment

GGG.Vert.ImageWait – what’s coming?

It’s mid-October, and that means that we’re less than a month away from one of Central Kentucky’s best events – the Bluegrass Community Foundation and Smiley Pete Publishing’s GoodGivingGuide Challenge.

If you haven’t experienced it before, the GoodGivingGuide Challenge is an awesome six-week campaign aimed at raising awareness of, engagement with, and funding for the many amazing nonprofits providing critical services in the bluegrass. This year’s Challenge will begin at 9 a.m. on November 13th and run through December 31st at 11:59 p.m.

Once again, Bluegrass Greensource is participating in the Challenge and will be seeking to engage with you – our supporters and community partners. We’ve got an exciting campaign planned, one filled with useful information and tips for greening your home and workplace, in-depth looks at the work Bluegrass Greensource does each day, and some fun filled ways that you can support our work.

This year’s Challenge also features some new and exciting ways for supporters to engage and raise awareness on behalf of their favorite nonprofits, many of which go beyond making a monetary donation. In short, it’s an excellent opportunity to raise awareness of the needs of our shared environment and help get the word out about all the ways that we can actively work to improve our communities and the natural systems on which we all rely.

So stay tuned! If you don’t already, please follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Keep an eye on your inbox. And help us spread the word to your friends and others in your network that share your passion for protecting and improving environmental sustainability in Central Kentucky!

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KRA Grant Opportunity

October 15, 2015By 0 comment

unnamedWishing you could find some funding to help improve your favorite local stream, river or lake?  Are you located in the Kentucky River Basin?

If so, please consider applying for a Kentucky River Authority Watershed Grant. Applications are being accepted until November 16, 2015.

In 2003, the Kentucky River Authority (KRA) initiated a Watershed Grant Program to provide financial assistance to organizations within the Kentucky River Basin.  These grants encourage local interest in protecting water quality by funding watershed education, water quality sampling or water quality improvement activities.  Grants of up to $3,000 have been provided to recipients annually. Please click here for details about past grant projects.

Grants are awarded to legal non-profit organizations, such as schools, city/county agencies, environmental groups, youth organizations, etc. with an interest in:

  • Educating the public or students about local water quality status;
  • Improving water quality of local streams, rivers or lakes;
  • Encouraging appreciation and use of community water resources.

Completed grant applications are due no later than November 16, 2015. They should be submitted to Malissa McAlister at mmcalister@uky.edu. You  may also direct any questions about the grant program to this email address.

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Announcing: Septic System Maintenance Workshop

October 15, 2015By 0 comment

Improving Water Quality in the Dix River Watershed

Kentucky River PhotoThe Dix River watershed and its tributaries, which flow into the Kentucky River, are considered imperiled due to high levels of E. coli bacteria. Many of the streams flowing into the Dix River are unsafe for wading, swimming, fishing, and other forms of water recreation. Studies have determined that failing septic systems and straight pipes contribute to bacteria in our waterways. High levels of bacteria and other pathogens can harm or kill native plants, fish, and shellfish, and can be a hazard to human health.

To help improve water quality in the Dix River watershed area, Bluegrass Greensource offers homeowner workshops in Boyle, Garrard, and Lincoln Counties. Participants will learn about local watersheds and water quality, how to properly care for septic systems, and how to identify problems with septic systems. Following the workshop, participants can apply for a cost-share grant for septic system repairs, or for a free septic tank pumpout. To be eligible for the grants, homeowners must reside within the Dix River watershed in Boyle, Garrard, or Lincoln Counties.

The next FREE septic system workshop will be held on:

Saturday, October 17th
10:00-11:00 am
Boyle County Cooperative Extension Service
90 Corporate Drive
Danville, KY 40422

Registration for the workshop is encouraged but not required. Homeowners can register by calling Bluegrass Greensource at: 859-266-1572.

This program is funded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency under section 319(h) of the Clean Water Act, through the Kentucky Division of Water.
Photo Credit:
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Energy Audit Kits to the Rescue

October 15, 2015By 0 comment

oliviaBluegrass Greensource provides free Energy Audit Kit’s through the public libraries for checkout. The Energy Audit Kit’s are designed to guide you through the first steps of making your home more energy efficient. By using this kit you can find areas in your home that could use more insulation, are leaking cold air, or appliances that are using energy even when turned off. The Energy Audit Kit’s tools include: kill-a-watt meter, Infrared Thermometer, Foot Candle Meter, Refrigerator Thermometer, and an Instant Read Thermometer. Each of these tools provides information on how energy is used throughout your home. For example, the kill-a-watt meter is used for measuring the energy usage of appliances that generally stay plugged-in such as televisions, radios, and lamps. Many appliances go into ‘stand by’ mode even when turned off and still consume power. After seeing how much energy is consumed by appliances that are turned off, you can consider plugging electronics into power strips and turning off the strip when not in use. This will eliminate appliances using energy while in standby mode. Another example would be the Infrared Thermometer which is used for identifying poorly-insulated areas in walls, floors, and ceilings. By using this tool in the Energy Audit Kit, you can decide where insulation is most needed in your home. Not only does the Energy Audit Kit have tools, it also comes with an Audit Kit manual and a Simple Savers booklet. The manual provides instructions for each tool and how to assess their information, energy saving tips, incentives and rebates related to energy efficient changes in the home, and free to low cost resources in the community to provide weatherization assistance. The Simple Savers Booklet is a DIY manual that will guide you through the energy efficient changes you can make to your home. The purpose of the home Energy Audit Kit is for everyone in Lexington to have easy access to finding out how energy efficient their home is, and then providing them the knowhow on how to make the necessary changes to their home. Energy Audit’s can be expensive and difficult to schedule for busy individuals. The Energy Audit Kit is available to anyone who wants to make changes without spending the money and time to have an energy audit done for you. Also by doing the energy audit yourself; you can save kill-a-watt hours just by seeing how your home uses energy and making behavioral changes. Making energy efficient changes, infrastructural or behavioral, can help you save money this winter on your utility bill and also reduce environmental impact. Make a difference in your home and environment by checking out an Energy Audit Kit from your local library today!

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Bridget’s Native Tree Picks

October 15, 2015By 0 comment

Fall is upon us, and it is the perfect time to think about planting trees. Whether you are planting in the fall or planning for an early spring planting, choosing the right native species for the site is essential for the survival and vigor of the tree. Native trees are those that are indigenous to a certain area, have evolved in their local environment, and are adapted to the surrounding soils and climate. Native plants help improve water quality by slowing and infiltrating stormwater, provide habitat and biodiversity, reduce the urban heat island effect, and enhance the aesthetic value of our city centers and urban neighborhoods. To assist you in selecting trees, I have picked a few of my favorite native species that grow well in Central Kentucky:

Blackgum

Nyssa sylvatica

Photo 1-Blackgum FoliageBlackgum’s shiny foliage in the fall, distinct form in winter, and thick, plated bark make this tree an excellent choice for ornamental planting. This tree grows best in moist, well-drained soils, but can also withstand wet conditions and drought. Blackgum will grow in full sun or partial shade. Its leaves are dark green and glossy in the summer, and brilliant crimson, orange, and purple in the fall. Insignificant, greenish-white flowers in the spring are an exceptional nectar source for bees. Small, sour, bluish-black fruits ripen in the fall and attract many species of birds and mammals. Few insects or diseases affect this tree, making it low-maintenance in the landscape. Blackgum can reach a height of 80 feet on moist sites.

Eastern Hophornbeam

Ostrya virginiana

Photo 2-Eastern HophornbeamEastern hophornbeam’s rusty fall foliage, shredded bark, and distinct seeds make this tree a less showy but attractive choice for the landscape. This tree prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils, but can also adapt to wet, dry, rocky, poor, or alkaline soils. Eastern hophornbeam can grow in full sun or partial shade. Its simple leaves are delicate, and turn yellow to reddish orange in the fall. Male and female catkins are visible in the winter and spring, and the fruit, called nutlets, are distinct “hop-like” papery capsules. This tree has no serious insect or disease problems. Eastern hophornbeam can reach a height of 20-40 feet.

Alternate-leaf /Pagoda Dogwood

Cornus alternifolia

Alternate-leaf dogwood, also known as Pagoda dogwood, is an excellent alternative to the commonly planted flowering dogwood tree. Its whorled horizontal branches, showy flowers, late-summer berries, and vibrant fall foliage make this tree an eye-catching specimen. This tree prefers moist, slightly acidic, well-drained soils. Alternate-leaf dogwood grows best in considerable shade, but can also grow well in full sun. Unlike other native dogwoods, the leaves grow in an alternate, rather than opposite arrangement. Fall foliage, though not brilliant, turns red, purple, and yellow. In late spring, cream-colored, showy, broad, fragrant flower clusters attract many pollinators. In late summer, bluish-black fruit are born on red stalks and attract birds. This tree is susceptible to twig blight, leaf spot and canker, but these diseases are generally not lethal. Alternate-leaf dogwood can reach a height of 15-25 feet.

Photo Credits:
1- Blackgum foliage- U.S. National Arboretum
2- Eastern hophornbeam foliage- Melissa McMasters
3- Alternate-leaf dogwood flower- Distant Hill Gardens
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