February Newsletter

 Sorry for the delay!

On February 4, a network of transit rider unions, community organizations, environmental groups and labor unions celebrate Transit Equity Day–a national day of action to commemorate the birthday of Rosa Parks by declaring that public transit is a civil right. We make the connection to this act of resistance to highlight the rights of all people to high-quality public transportation run on clean/renewable energy.

The Wisconsin Sierra Club and other members of the Coalition for More Responsible Transportation will highlight the importance of strong state and local support for public transit, a powerful tool in the effort to reduce transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions. The club’s 2018 white paper, “Arrive Together: Transportation Access and Equity in Wisconsin,” notes that state funding for public transportation has remained minimal and flat as money for large projects, like the billion-dollar I-94 expansion in Milwaukee, and debt service has risen. www.sierraclub.org/wisconsin/arrive-together-transportation-access-and-equity-wisconsin

From January 31 through February 4 in La Crosse, the Coulee Region Sierra Club will join La Crosse Area Transit Advocates, the La Crosse MTU and others in hosting educational displays at the La Crosse Public Library and Grand River Transit Center, collecting transit riders’ stories, hosting Ride with Your Rep ride-alongs, thanking essential transit workers, helping first-time riders, and more. https://tinyurl.com/LaXTED2022

On February 4, Coulee Region Sierra Club members in the Viroqua area will celebrate Transit Equity Day with a display of support for public transit at Running, Inc., 318 West Decker St., which operates several  transit services in smaller Wisconsin communities, including Viroqua Cab, a shared-ride taxi service. Running is also the operator of the Scenic Mississippi Regional Transit (SMRT) buses connecting Viroqua, Prairie du Chien, Tomah, La Crosse and other communities in the region.

Learn more about Transit Equity Day and events at www.labor4sustainability.org/transit-equity-2022

February 10 at 7 p.m.  Update on CAFO permits with guests from Kewaunee Cares and Midwest Environmental Advocates Hosted by Fox Valley Group Register: tinyurl.com/0210-CAFOUpdate    Learn the latest about the fight for clean water and the legal issues surrounding proposed expansion of Kinnard Farm n Kewaunee County. Learn about the recent Wisconsin Supreme Court decision about DNR permitting and monitoring of potential water polluters. Invited guests include Lynn Utesch of Kewaunee Cares and Adam Voskull, Midwest Environmental Advocates. This event is hosted by the Fox Valley Group. 

FEBRUARY 2 - REJECT LINE 5 PUBLIC HEARING     The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) released a draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for Enbridge Energy’s controversial plan to construct a new segment of the Line 5 oil pipeline in northern Wisconsin. Under state law, the draft EIS must contain information about how the project would impact people, natural resources, and the economy.

We know that if built, Line 5 could lead to catastrophic damage to local communities, lands, and waterways, including Lake Superior. Tar sands are also the dirtiest form of energy on the planet, and would wreak havoc on our climate at a time when we need to be transitioning away from the fossil fuel industry, not investing in it.

The DNR is taking comments on the draft EIS and will host a public hearing on February 2. This is a critical time period to demonstrate the broad range of concerns around the pipeline. This is your opportunity to tell the DNR that the Line 5 pipeline jeopardizes our waterways, undermines Bad River's decision not to allow Enbridge in the watershed, and threatens our climate.

You must RSVP with the DNR to get the Zoom link! RSVP here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_CzO_Cc1KSjGp0Sqijzt5OA

La Crosse School Board Primary     “Small” elections matter. There are eight candidates running for three seats on the La Crosse School Board. A February 15 primary will narrow the field to six. Absentee voting  has started. It is very important to know who you are voting for and what their priorities are. The La Crosse Tribune has published candidate survey responses that can be found at their website. Club members and other environmentalists are encouraged to participate in the political process by learning about candidates and voting in every election.

Government and Environment     On January 20, Sierra Club members from across the state tuned in for an online discussion of government and the environment in Wisconsin with Sarah Godlewski and Tia Nelson. The two are connected by their service on the state’s Board of Commissioners of Public Lands (BCPL). As State Treasurer, Sarah currently has a seat on the Board and has been its chair since 2019, while Tia served as the BCPL’s Executive Secretary from 2004 through 2015. Tia resigned from her position shortly after the Commissioners banned employees from discussing climate change while working; Sarah’s first action as Chair of the BCPL was to lift that ban.

The conversation, moderated by Coulee Region group chair Kathy Allen, ranged from clean energy and the importance of forests to clean water and environmental justice. Common themes were holding corporations responsible for their environmental impacts, the importance of local government action, and the value of public advocacy.

Sarah shared the work that the BCPL has done to protect the state's forests and, more recently, to help municipalities transition to clean energy. Tia talked about how things have changed (or stayed the same) within the environmental movement. With regards to equity and justice, she feels the environmental movement "has taken too long to address issues of disparity in how pollution has affected poorer communities in this country, but I'm heartened by the resonance and strength of that movement today." Both speakers are hopeful that government can make progress in improving environmental quality - to hear what gives them hope, watch the recording at www.youtube.com/c/SierraClubWisconsin/featured.

Climate Action Plan Program     Thank you to Ted Redmond of paleBLUEdot llc, the consultant working with the City of La Crosse on its climate action plan. Ted was guest speaker at the CRSC January 25 online program, “What IS a climate action plan?” He explained the process in general terms, shared tools and plans they use, and invited audience members to get involved. There is a “Meeting in a Box” tool available at the web page to empower community groups, businesses, or residents to host their own climate action plan listening session. Learn more and sign up at www.lacrosseclimateactionplan.org/about There is also a survey:  www.lacrosseclimateactionplan.org/survey and anyone who lives in, visits, or does business in La Crosse may complete it.

The program was recorded and may be viewed at tinyurl.com/CRSCCAP0125

FEBRUARY EVENTS:

February 2: “Climate Disruption Locked In - The Next Moves Will Be Crucial” at 7 p.m. online. Hosted by the Chippewa Valley Group tinyurl.com/CVSCClimate0202

February 3: Virtual Volunteer Fair online from 6:30 p.m. How do your passions and skills fit with Sierra Club needs? https://tinyurl.com/WISCVolFair0203

February 4:  9th Annual Perennial Farm Gathering online 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. www.savannainstitute.org/perennial-farm-gathering/

February 5: Black River Forest Candlelight Ski/Hike/Snowshoe 5:30 p.m. Smrekar Parking Lot, four miles east of Millston off County Road O. dnr.wisconsin.gov/events/51421

February 9: Wisconsin Sierra Club Virtual Volunteer Night at 6:30 p.m. tinyurl.com/WISCVolNite0209

February 9: “Millston Cranberry Research Center” hosted by Friends of the Black River at 6:30 p.m. at The Hub, Lunda Community Center, 405 State Highway 54, Black River Falls www.blackrivercountry.net/event/friends-of-the-black-river-meeting/

February 12: Valentine’s Snowshoe Hike at 10 a.m. Trailhead kiosk next to Stoney Creek Hotel & Conference Center, 3060 S. Kinney Coulee Rd, Onalaska. ***REGISTER BY FEBRUARY 9 *** at this website: mississippivalleyconservancy.org/events/valentines-snowshoe-hike-1

February 12: Wyalusing State Park Candlelight Hike 5:30 p.m. Start at Wyalusing Observatory.  dnr.wisconsin.gov/events/51581

February 17: Wisconsin Farmers Union Virtual Farm and Rural Lobby Day tinyurl.com/WFULobbyDay22

February 21: African American Environmental Pioneer Awards at 6:30 p.m. tinyurl.com/AAEPA0221

GREAT BACKYARD BIRD COUNT     Each February, the world comes together for the love of birds. Over four days, people spend time in their favorite places watching and counting as many birds as they can find. Their observations help scientists better understand global bird populations before one o f their annual migrations. This year’s Great Backyard Bird Count will take place from February 18 through 21. Learn more at www.birdcount.org

Climate Interviews  By Adrian Cuff

I have interviewed several people with differing opinions and ages. In this final interview, I will be interviewing myself, and wrapping this interview series up.

What is your opinion on the climate crisis, and what is the best thing that can be done to fix the crisis?

I am a complete believer in climate change and the terrible crisis that everyone is living with every day. Even before I came to UWL and started my minor in Environmental Studies, I had a strong belief in climate change. Now at the end of my minor, I have realized so much more, and why humans need to make changes fast before it is too late. It is depressing sometimes seeing the bad things happening in the news, and realizing how bad the mess is, but I do have faith that we will turn this around. Everyday new technology is being invented and being produced that will make an impact on our future.

One thing that really stands out to me is the creation of the internet. No would ever imagine in a million years that the internet would exist and would be this popular when it came out. That is a perfect example of something new that came into our lives out of nowhere and has changed the world forever. Now we can’t just rely on a savior of technology to show up tomorrow. Humans need to start making changes to lower our carbon footprint and lower our resource consumption. Another thing that is a necessary change is power production. The U.S. is already on the right path in this category and has shut down over half the country’s coal power plants. Power production is one of the biggest polluters in the U.S., and the only move is to switch to clean energy. I wish I had all the answers to fix this problem that has been ignored for many years, but I do not. I will still be doing my part in trying to keep my carbon footprint low and will pass on the message to others about the crisis. The only way to beat this issue is to work together. It will not be easy, but if we all work together, anything is possible.

Overall, the goal of the interviews was to show the readers that even though it seems like the crisis is not being heard and no one cares, there is hope, and people, of varying ages and backgrounds, do know about the crisis. Were there some radical ideas? Yes. But, not everyone is going to have the same opinions/ideas and that is the beauty of humans - that we are all different and think differently.
 
HIGH SCHOOL ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP AWARD     The Coulee Region Sierra Club seeks to promote environmental stewardship through enduring, fair, and equitable action. Protection of air, water, land, wildlife habitats, and the climate is a primary goal. CRSC believes that all people of all ages can help protect the natural environment for present and future generations through active engagement. New for 2021-2022, CRSC will recognize the achievements of and award $150 to a high school senior who demonstrates leadership, action, and environmental stewardship, and who understands the importance of civic engagement in protecting our environment.

Eligible students are those graduating from high school in 2022 who reside in the CRSC region: Crawford, Grant, Jackson, La Crosse, Monroe, Richland, Trempealeau, and Vernon counties. The application includes essays and submission of a portfolio. The deadline for applications is March 15, 2022 with the award to be given by the end of April, 2022.

For more information and an application form, visit www.sierraclub.org/wisconsin/coulee/education

Funding for these environmental grants and awards is possible thanks to an annual grant from the Paul E. Stry Foundation, shared dues from Sierra Club memberships, and donations made by community members. To learn more about donating, please email CRSierraClub@gmail.com.

MARCH 15 PROGRAM ON CLEAN WATER NOW     The Coulee Region Sierra Club will host an online program on clean water issues and the move to pass clean water resolutions in many Wisconsin counties at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 15. Guests will be Johnson Bridgewater, an organizer with River Alliance of Wisconsin, who has been working on the “Clean Water Now” referendum campaign and Jamie O’Neill who is helping to organize a water symposium at Viterbo University and who serves on the La Crosse County Board.

This program is earlier in the month than our normal meeting time. More details, including registration link and information about speakers, will be published in our March newsletter.

Comment on WisDOT 2050 Transportation Plan

  Cross-posted from La Crosse Area Transit Advocates.

"The squeaky wheel gets the grease." 

The recent surprise announcement by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation--that it will drop its decades-long push to build a new highway through the marsh--does give hope that constant, relentless, uncompromising noisy advocacy can make a difference.

Without scrutiny and comment, projects are in the pipeline that will continue down the path of inequity, wasteful spending, unhealthy priorities, and environmental degradation. And, often, you must comment decades before a project's inadequacies are revealed, because the process is so compartmentalized and circuitous, that something decided in 1998 cannot be undone or fixed in 2023 when it is unveiled for a final review. 

Now is the time to comment on plans being made by the Wisconsin DOT for 2050. This is from Mary Pustejovsky, a Wisconsin transportation equity advocate. 

I wanted to remind everyone that Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) is collecting comments on their draft 2050 plan.The website is here:

https://connect2050.wisconsindot.gov/plan

The last day to submit comments is January 24th, so there is not much time.  I am sharing my comments here in case anyone wants talking points. There is a lot more that could be said, and your comments would be helpful. The more voices they hear, the better. If it's not obvious from my comments, I think the plan is more of the same that we've gotten from them for years. It's time for them to do better.

--------------------

My comments: 

As a citizen of Wisconsin, I welcome the opportunity to provide feedback on the Connect 2050 plan.

Goal 4 states that “The department will continue to prioritize reducing congestion”. A few things: it was *not* a priority from looking at most of the comments from Wisconsites all over the state. The most common priority was “alternatives to driving”, with 700 comments mentioning it, more than any other comment type (https://connect2050.wisconsindot.gov/outreach). It’s embarrassing that WisDOT states its priority is to reduce congestion yet ignores the cheapest option: reducing vehicle miles traveled. When people have alternatives to driving alone, congestion decreases. Yet in your own documents, you show VMT continuing to go up! At least Minnesota DOT has made decreasing VMT a priority. Wisconsin should look to their plans, as our states are similar and have similar challenges.

Also on the interactive website, when selecting Goal 4, then Mobility, you tout “what we are doing now” by presenting a bicycle plan from 1998. REALLY? A 23 year old plan is what you are doing now? You should be ashamed of yourselves. It would have been better not to show it at all because it shows how little you are doing for people outside of motor vehicles.

For Objective 8b: Prioritize emissions reduction and alternative fuels to improve air quality.

Again, WisDOT ignores the most straightforward way to do this: reduce VMT. With fewer miles traveled, emissions go down, and air quality improves. Even electric vehicles won’t save us as they have tires that turn into micro particles that pollute our water (https://www.greencarreports.com/news/1131916_report-microplastic-pollution-from-vehicle-tires-is-a-serious-global-issue).

WisDOT states “Balance transportation needs with those of the natural environment, socioeconomic, historic and cultural resources.” Yet the federal guideline states: “Protect and *enhance* the environment, promote energy conservation, improve the quality of life, and promote consistency between transportation improvements and state and local planned growth and economic development patterns.”

WisDOT’s statement is NOT actually what the federal guideline calls for. What does “balance” mean here? If vehicular delay is reduced by 1 minute is that a “good balance” with the environment? It is so vague as to be meaningless, and allows for vehicular delay to be seen as equivalent with our need for a livable planet.

Federal guideline: 8. Emphasize the preservation of the existing transportation system.

WisDOT:

• Pursue continuous improvement and expand data-driven decision-making processes.

• Maximize technology benefits.

This is NOT the same! WisDOT should be focused on repairing existing systems rather than expanding them. We do not have infinite money, and we need to keep our existing system in good repair. Even WisDOT states that it’s important to pay attention to funding sources (goal 1).

Your section on safety is disappointing. You use the talk of Vision Zero “zero traffic deaths” and “5 Es” yet you don’t seem to properly understand them, nor how they work in a hierarchy. The standard 5 Es are: Evaluation, Engineering, Enforcement, Education, and Encouragement. Some have swapped out Enforcement for Equity because it has been well established that the current system of traffic enforcement in our country can result in discriminatory outcomes. Still, I have NEVER seen anyone state that EMS or “Everyone” is part of the 5 Es. It is a complete abdication of your responsibility as a state transportation department to say that “everyone” is responsible. You continue to design roads that encourage speeding. You prevent ENGINEERING changes to East Washington in Madison that would provide more safety on a road where multiple people are killed each year. Yet “everyone” is responsible? That is some next level gaslighting, or maybe you truly are that oblivious to transportation research on appropriate traffic engineering measures that have measurable impact in reducing road violence. 

Your idea of safety is laughable. You state that you want to decrease traffic deaths, yet your own GOALS for 2021 were *higher* than 2020! Your scorecard (https://wisconsindot.gov/Documents/about-wisdot/performance/mapss/scorecard.pdf)  stated that the goal for traffic crashes was 127,892. In the same line it states that 2020 was 114,697.  I realize that this 2050 plan does not have individual metrics, which will be found in other plans, but you can see why I am skeptical of your “goals” and “objectives”. Your goals clearly state that you will do worse than before, then if you come in under your absurdly high goal, you will get a green arrow showing what a good job you’ve done. This is unconscionable.

Finally, the second most common comment was around funding. As I’ve mentioned previously, decreasing VMT is the fastest, cheapest way to ensure that our roads are able to last longer and stay in good condition. The next area that needs to be explored and proposed by WisDOT to the legislature is increasing fees based on vehicle weight. Any engineer will tell you that more weight causes more road damage. It is simple physics. As people switch to (heavy) EVs that do not pay gas tax, they need to pay for their use of the road. As drivers choose heavier vehicles such as oversive SUVs, they need to pay for the damage they do to roads. France is doing this and it is one of the only ways to make it fair for all road users. People who do more damage to the road need to pay for funding the improvements. It is as simple as that. This needs to be considered in all your discussions around fiscal responsibility (ie Goal 1).

Join us - What IS a Climate Action Plan?

What is a CLIMATE ACTION PLAN?
(and why do we need one?)
Tuesday, January 25 at 7 p.m.  ONLINE
with guest, Ted Redmond, paleBLUEdot llc

In 2019, the City of La Crosse passed a “Ready for 100” resolution pledging to cut carbon emissions to zero and transition to 100% renewable energy community-wide by 2050. Now, the city is working on  a plan to reach those goals.

Ted Redmond is co-founder of paleBLUEdot, llc, a consulting firm which helps local governments, community organizations, and businesses understand and  improve their climate resilience through climate planning.

Ted will talk to us about what a climate action plan is? Who is making climate action plans and why they are important? What is included in the process? How organizations, businesses, governments and individuals can get started and get involved. A brief Q&A session will end the program.

Please register for the event at tinyurl.com/CRSC012522

Questions? Email CRSierraClub@gmail.com

Bird Brother

 

An Inside Look: A Falconer's Journey

Wednesday, January 19, 2022 3:00 - 4:00 PM CT

Rodney Stotts is one of America's few Black master falconers. On this webinar, Rodney will share his story as a Black child facing dangerous threats, and how he transformed his life through the healing power of nature. You will learn about the sanctuary he is building where others can be inspired by nature and wildlife. You will be reminded that no matter how much heartbreak we have endured, we still have the capacity to give back to our communities and change lives.

An online webinar hosted by the National Audubon Society. More information here: https://act.audubon.org/a/inside-look-falconers-journey

Join a Conversation with State Treasurer Sarah Godlewski and Tia Nelson on January 20th!

On Thursday, January 20, at 6:30 pm, all Wisconsin Sierra Club members and supporters are invited to a virtual conversation on government and the environment in Wisconsin with Sarah Godlewski and Tia Nelson. As State Treasurer, Sarah serves on the Board of Commissioners of Public Lands (BCPL) and has been its Chair since 2019. Tia Nelson was Executive Secretary of the BCPL for 11 years, until 2015. Sarah and Tia will share with us their experience stewarding our state's natural resources through their positions, and discuss what roles various levels of government can play in protecting and even restoring our environment. The conversation will include Sierra Club priority issues, such as clean energy and water.

RSVP here to receive the meeting link:

https://act.sierraclub.org/events/details?formcampaignid=7013q000002GMzwAAG&mapLinkHref=

Sarah Godlewski and Tia Nelson

January 2022 Newsletter

 TUESDAY, JANUARY 25 at 7 p.m. What is a Climate Action Plan? with Ted Redmond, co-founder, paleBluedot, llc ONLINE Register at tinyurl.com/CRSC012522     The Sierra Club’s Ready for 100 initiative supports local grassroots efforts to encourage governments, large, and small, to make the equitable and just transition to 100% clean, renewable energy. So far, more than 180 cities and towns have made that commitment, including La Crosse, which has pledged to reduce community carbon emissions to zero by 2050. As the next step in this process, the city has enlisted consultant paleBLUEdot, llc, to help create a community climate action plan.

What is a climate action plan? Who should make one? How does the process work?

Join us as we hear from Ted Redmond, co-founder of paleBLUEdot, llc. about his company’s work to give individuals and communities the tools to make a positive difference and what the process with the City and community of La Crosse will involve. We can make a difference, we can reduce carbon emissions and projected temperature rises, we can work together to rethink how our systems can support a sustainable future. Register here: tinyurl.com/CRSC012522.

If you live in the city of La Crosse you can help by completing the Climate Action Survey and sharing a climate change story. Find links at lacrosseclimateactionplan.org.

If you would like to take the survey or share your story but you do not have internet access, please call 608-315-2693 and we will send you a paper copy. 

2021 YEAR IN REVIEW    by Kathy Allen, CRSC board president     Last year, 2021, was another year of pandemic restrictions, but our Coulee Region group still found ways to be involved in environmental advocacy in our communities. Let's hope we can see each other more in person in 2022! Here are some of our accomplishments from the past year:

January - We submitted letters of support for grant applications by the recently-formed Vernon County Energy District (VCED) and WisCorps. The VCED sought a grant from the Wisconsin Public Service Commission to facilitate more comprehensive energy planning in Vernon County by bringing a wide variety of stakeholders to the table to share best practices and lessons learned. WisCorps submitted a grant to cultivate an inclusive and equitable environment within WisCorps and in the La Crosse community, specifically in the outdoor and conservation spaces, including a series of virtual workshops focused on racial equity, inclusion, diversity, and allyship. Both grant applications were successful.

February - Our group board passed a resolution in support of Transit Equity Day, a national day of action to advocate for accessible, reliable, and affordable transit powered by renewable energy.

March - We co-sponsored a "Transit Talk" with State Senator Brad Pfaff, and also held a virtual lobby visit with Senator Pfaff to advocate for Sierra Club priorities in the state budget.

April - Three of our board members hosted a virtual presentation for La Crosse Earth Week - a recording is still available at https://youtu.be/z8frLytzhDU. Board members also submitted two citizen resolutions to the Conservation Congress spring hearing in La Crosse County, one to address PFAS and another asking for no new fossil fuel infrastructure construction. Both resolutions passed.

May - Our group submitted a short video for Altra's virtual employee wellness week, describing connections between environmental and personal wellness (find it on our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CRSierraClub/videos/1159634657796022). We also co-sponsored the Crawford Stewardship Project's "Farms, Factories, and the Future" virtual forum and a "Transit Talk" with La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds.

July - After a hiatus in 2020, the Sierra Club's Black River family paddling and camping trip was back! Families paddled 24 miles, visited a waterfall, and camped on a sandbar.

August - We co-hosted an art and press event asking Rep. Ron Kind to support climate action, green jobs, and environmental justice in federal infrastructure and budget legislation. Attendees decorated a banner with their handprints and messages, that was delivered to Rep. Kind's La Crosse office. We also announced a new environmental stewardship award for a Coulee Region high school senior, beginning in spring 2022.

September - Our board was asked by Senator Tammy Baldwin's office for a statement in support of climate action in the Infrastructure Bill and Build Back Better. We submitted the following: "The Coulee Region Sierra Club group leadership is grateful to Senator Tammy Baldwin for her support of the bold climate initiatives in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and the Senate Budget Resolution. The funding for clean energy and clean transportation incentives, weatherization and electrification of buildings, clean energy manufacturing, and climate-smart agriculture in this legislation will benefit both our environment and our local economy. It will help municipalities and businesses in Western Wisconsin strengthen our communities while battling the looming climate crisis and building a healthier, more secure future for our country."  We also co-sponsored and tabled at “Ask Me About My EV,” a National Drive Electric Week event in La Crosse to educate about and promote electric vehicles.

October - Members participated in a socially-distanced roadside clean-up along River Valley Drive in La Crosse.

November - We're co-sponsoring a campaign asking the School District of La Crosse to set a goal to transition to 100% clean, renewable energy by 2050 and to prepare a climate action plan. An online petition went live in November and will stay active into the New Year.
 
December - The La Crosse County Board passed a resolution to have an advisory referendum on the spring ballot asking if the state should "establish a right to clean water to protect human health, the environment, and the diverse cultural and natural heritage of Wisconsin". The resolution, drafted by the River Alliance, was first brought to the County Board's attention by a Coulee Region group member.

YOUR 2022 CRSC BOARD     Thank you to those who participated in December voting to elect members to serve on the Coulee Region Sierra Club board of directors. Kathy Allen, Ned Gatzke, Cathy Van Maren, and Pat Wilson were elected to serve in 2022. 

JANUARY 5 DEADLINE FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION GRANT APPLICATIONS!     CRSC is offering  grants of up to $200 each for environmental education projects to schools or community organizations involving young people at the elementary and middle school level within the CRSC region: Crawford, Grant, Jackson, La Crosse, Monroe, Richland, Trempealeau, and Vernon counties.

Applications may be completed online, emailed or mailed. The deadline has been extended to  January 5, 2022. For more information, visit sierraclub.org/wisconsin/coulee/Education or tinyurl.com/CRSC-Students

New for 2021-2022, CRSC will recognize the achievements of and award $150 to a high school senior who demonstrates leadership, action, and environmental stewardship, and who understands the importance of civic engagement in protecting our environment. Eligible students are those graduating from high school in 2022 who reside in the CRSC region: Crawford, Grant, Jackson, La Crosse, Monroe, Richland, Trempealeau, and Vernon counties. The application includes essays and submission of a portfolio. The deadline for applications is March 15, 2022 with the award to be given by the end of April, 2022.  For more information, visit sierraclub.org/wisconsin/coulee/Education or tinyurl.com/CRSC-Students

Funding for these environmental grants and awards is possible thanks to an annual grant from the Paul E. Stry Foundation, shared dues from Sierra Club memberships, and donations made by community members. Email us to learn more: CRSierraClub@gmail.com.

UW-LA CROSSE CLIMATE RALLY     On December 13, UW-L students and community members, supported by Citizen Action of Wisconsin’s Driftless Co-op, gathered on campus to call on the University to hire a sustainability coordinator and prepare a climate action plan. Below is an excerpt from a speech by UW-L student activist, Abby Siakpere:

It’s official: July 2021 was the hottest month on Earth in history. Intense heat, widespread drought, historic flooding and “once-in-a-lifetime” storms have become our new normal. Current infrastructure is stressed to the brink of collapse and those, especially in low-income communities and communities of color, end up suffering the worst of the consequences. On August 7, 2021, historic flooding was seen across the Driftless region as mother nature dumped 5.59 inches of rain on the City of La Crosse, making it the wettest day ever on record.

And just this past weekend, deadly tornadoes ripped through six states, creating an over 200-mile path of destruction throughout Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Missouri, Arkansas, and Mississippi. Deanne Criswell, the FEMA administrator, was quoted over the weekend as saying, “The effects we are seeing of climate change are the crisis of our generation," and that “the severity, duration and magnitude of the storms this late in the year were ‘unprecedented.”

Climate change is here, and the effects are being seen all over the Driftless region. Yet local and state politicians have done nothing to protect the citizens of Wisconsin from future disasters. Climate Action Plans should have already been drafted, approved and implemented because the research has already been done.

Here at UW-L, the brand new $2 million dollar Prairie Springs Center was specifically built to support environmental studies and education, conservation, and ecological technology, yet UW-L administrators have yet to establish a full-time sustainability coordinator, a position that exists at EVERY OTHER UW CAMPUS EXCEPT LA CROSSE.

We are here today to say that we’ve had enough, and we are holding local and state officials accountable. The establishment of these things are the BARE MININIMUM foundation steps local leaders can take to help effectively combat climate change in the Driftless region, but to this very day, those steps haven’t even been taken.

I’m a person of action. Anyone can say anything they want to whoever they want, it’s the actions that that person takes is what matters. Actions speak louder than words, and leaders…this is your time to take action. DO SOMETHING.

JANUARY 31 - FEBRUARY 4 TRANSIT EQUITY DAYS    Since 2018, on February 4, a network of transit rider unions, community organizations, environmental groups and labor unions have organized Transit Equity Day–a national day of action to commemorate the birthday of Rosa Parks by declaring that public transit is a civil right. Rosa is an iconic figure of the civil rights era who chose the tactic of refusing to give up her seat on the bus to demand an end to segregation in the Montgomery, Alabama, transit system. We make the connection to this act of resistance to highlight the rights of all people to high-quality public transportation run on clean/renewable energy.

In 2021, residents of La Crosse county will highlight the importance of public transportation with a week of events and programs, including a display at the La Crosse Public Library, ride-alongs with elected epresentatives, and more. Programming will also highlight the SMRT bus (Scenic Mississippi Regional Transit) that serves many CRSC counties.

Transit equity has many facets. The right to access necessary services, education, jobs, health care, entertainment, and a full life should not depend on one’s ability to own or drive a private vehicle. A strong public transit system that is affordable, accessible, and that goes where people need to go when they need to go is not a luxury.

The average cost to own and operate a vehicle in 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Transportation Statistics was more than $9,500.

The League of Women Voters estimates that, in 2021, nearly 29% of Wisconsin residents were non-drivers.

According to a White House Fact Sheet, Wisconsin residents who take public transit spend an extra 62.7% of their time commuting and non-White households are 5.9 times more likely to commute via public transportation.

The EPA reports that private cars and light trucks causemore than 50% of transportation sector greenhouse gas emissions.

In a 2018 transportation equity report, the Wisconsin Sierra Club noted that most of the state's transportation budget goes to state highways, debt service, and aids to local roads. In 2015, less than 5% of the transportation budget went to public transit.

Switching even some trips from fossil-fuel private vehicles to public transit, especially as newer hybrid and electric buses are added to fleets, can reduce individuals' carbon footprints immediately.

More details about transit equity events in the La Crosse area will be available by January 15 at tinyurl.com/TEDLaCrosse2022

JANUARY EVENTS

January 6 at 6 p.m. ONLINE: Environmental Justice in Sierra Club - Panel Discussion. Register at tinyurl.com/WISC010622

January 7 at 6:30 p.m. ONLINE: LN3 - Seven Teachings of the Anishinaabe in Resistance film and discussion. Register at tinyurl.com/WISC010722

January 12 at 6:30 p.m. ONLINE: Wisconsin Sierra Club Virtual Volunteer Night. Learn more at tinyurl.com/WISCVolNite0122

January 17: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day

January 17 at 6:30 p.m. ONLINE: Environmental Alliances with Wisconsin Indian Nations. Register at tinyurl.com/WISC011722

January 20 at 6:30 p.m. ONLINE: A Conversation on Government and the Environment in Wisconsin with State Treasurer Sarah Godlewski and Tia Nelson. Details will be at cr-sierra.blogspot.com by January 10.

January 22 at 6 p.m. ONLINE: Supporting the Indigenous-led Movement to Stop Pipelines and Other Threats. Register at tinyurl.com/WISC012222

January 25 at 7 p.m. ONLINE: What is a Climate Action Plan? Visit tinyurl.com/SRSC012522

CLIMATE CHANGE - UWL STAFF VIEW by Adrian Cuff

Adrian Cuff is a senior at UW-La Crosse majoring in microbiology with a minor in environmental science. As part of his coursework for the Capstone for Environmental Science class, Adrian is submitting articles about local environmental issues for our newsletter.

In my last interview, I decided to interview students on what their opinions were on the Climate Crisis at UWL. For this interview I chose a UWL employee and wanted to see if there was a difference in responses between the employee and the students. Here is some background information on the employee I chose:

Background: Steph Lowe is the Hall Director of Coate Hall, where I work as a Resident Assistant. Steph isn’t originally from the area and is from the state of Kansas. Steph has a Master’s degree in College Student Development and is very educated compared to most people. She just moved to Wisconsin a few months ago, and I wanted to see what she thought about climate change since she isn’t from the local area. I ended up asking Steph how she feels about the climate crisis and what she recommends for students on campus here at UWL.  

Adrian Cuff: Hey Steph, glad I could snag you for this interview. How do you feel about climate change, and have you learned anything about it recently?

Steph Lowe: I feel like I think about climate change all the time because I see it on the news, and I have noticed the changes in the weather. Something that about recently is about the fashion industry, and how energy consuming, and how wasteful they are because fashion only last so long. I don’t participate in fast fashion, and it has made me realize that I should cut back on fashion. This also relates to consumerism, because you are buying things all the time and using resources, and you could donate items instead to be reused instead of throwing them away. This also relates in putting more resources in the landfill and that is not acceptable at this point. I feel like we don’t teach a lot about this in schools, and we need to do a better job about it. I learned about it in college, but that was the first time I’ve heard of it in my schooling career. I want to be more informed about what’s going on, and what I can do on my own part in the future to help the issue.

AC: Are you doing actions to try and limit your carbon footprint?

SL: I usually don’t drive a ton; I just walk everywhere or carpool. I also try to keep my lights off as much as possible and watch my water usage as well.

AC: What is your advice to students on the climate crisis?

SL:  It’s good for students to be informed as well because they can have conversations, and they can educate each other about the situation. This crisis isn’t ending anytime soon, and it affects everyone, so they need to care about it, and the only way to do that is learn how it effects your situation.

Overall, Steph and the students have the same opinions on the climate crisis, which is great. I do agree that educating the public about the situation will help fix the crisis in the long run, and the next couple generations coming up will hopefully be the saviors we have been looking for.

TEAMS MAKE THINGS HAPPEN     Statewide Issue Teams work on a specific issue under shared volunteer and staff leadership. They meet monthly over zoom and offer opportunities to assist with strategy and planning, as well as implementation, to win environmental victories! Join the Clean Water, Transportation Access & Equity, Clean Energy, Public Lands, Wildlife, Pipelines, or Mining team! Each January, teams set goals, strategy, targets, tactics, and timelines for the year. We also identify ways to work better together and refresh ourselves on what tools are available to volunteers. This year, the Teams Meeting will be on January 13 at 5:30. Register at tinyurl.com/WISC2022Teams to help make 2022 a year of positive Sierra Club action!

NEED HELP WITH NEWSLETTER!     Seeking a few people to help put the newsletter together. The current editor would like to share duties. Email crsierraclub@gmail.com.

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December newsletter

 

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 1 at 1p.m.  PFAS in drinking water Preparation for 12/01 and 12/10 public input ONLINE Register:  tinyurl.com/WISCPFAS  PFAS chemicals (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), also called “forever chemicals,” are found in everyday objects like cookware, water resistant clothing, food packaging, and firefighting foam. They have vast effects on both humans and aquatic species.  PFAS don’t break down easily and remain in the environment for long periods of time, making their way into Wisconsin waterways and affecting both ground and drinking water.

PFAS contamination has been associated with developmental defects in infants, increased risks of certain cancers, raised cholesterol levels, and lower reproductive success rates. Strong PFAS regulations, including chemical cleanup and testing, ensure that the water we drink is safe, the fish we eat are safe, and that the effects of forever chemicals are diminished. Another important step is ensuring that there are safe limits established for PFAS in water. Right now, the Department of Natural Resources is updating surface and drinking water PFAS regulations, and they're accepting public comments on this work. Sign up to testify at a virtual public hearing to advocate for health, safety, and clean water!

Midwest Environmental Advocates held an online public information session on November 29 about public input in this process. A recording of that session may be viewed at https://youtu.be/DJHRrEQdFNw

WEDNESDAY, DEC. 15, 2 to 8 p.m.   Hearing on proposed gas plants Public Service Commission public hearings ONLINE Register:  tinyurl.com/WISCPSCGas  WEC Energy Group (owner of We Energies and WPS) has proposed building mini gas plants, known as Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engine (RICE) units in Rothschild and Kronenwetter in central Wisconsin. Tell the PSC that they should be building batteries and clean energy, not more fossil fuel infrastructure. There will be two options for hearings: 2:00 and 6:00 p.m. RSVP for more information and talking points.

SUPPORT OUR TEAMS!  Sierra Club teams do vital grassroots work. You can support these volunteer efforts by donating any amount through the end of the year at tinyurl.com/WISCTeamFunds

November 15, 2021
Kathy, Cathy, Nancy, Veronica, Avery, Pat, Ned, Dorothy and other CRG leaders

Thank you for your work on our Summer of Collective Action for August Recess (and beyond)! We named this effort “Change Powered by People” because grassroots power is central to our theory of change. The Coulee Region Group was a beautiful example of this. One of the main goals of this project was to build grassroots power through base-building, leadership development, and partnerships. You worked with partners across your region, hosted events and art-making action, and developed and trusted new emerging volunteer leaders -- great work using this national opportunity in a way that worked for y’all, brought new people in, and strengthened and grew existing relationships. Y’all developed a local organizing arc that brings people into your local campaigns, and rooted it in hope and climate solutions. It’s our hope that volunteers engaged in this program will go on this journey with us and continue to do work with the Wisconsin Sierra Club.

We believe that, because elected officials are ultimately accountable to their constituents, building and wielding grassroots power locally is essential to getting them to pass the legislation we need. You’ve done hugely important work educating your community and local decision-makers about the need for this crucial legislation and the benefits infrastructure work like energy efficiency projects and solar on schools will bring to Wisconsinites. Thank you!!

Laura Comer, National Distributed Organizer, Sierra Club Ready for 100 initiative

CLIMATE ACTION - LA CROSSE SCHOOL DISTRICT   As Wisconsin cities and counties continue pledging to be part of the climate solution by planning to eliminate carbon emissions and transition to 100% clean, renewable energy, parents, students, teachers, and community members are turning their focus on schools.

The benefits of renewable energy for school districts is clear--schools save money when they install renewable energy systems, from energy efficiency upgrades to LED lights to solar panels. But there are many other benefits as highlighted in a 2019 study from Stanford University (news.stanford.edu/2019/05/02/happens-schools-go-solar/).

At least five Wisconsin school districts have formalized their intentions to look out for the health and safety of students’ futures by adopting clean energy, climate action or climate justice resolutions. Commitments range from moving to solar installations to considering how school operations, including food systems and transportation planning, impacts the districts’ carbon footprints.

The Coulee Region Sierra Club has partnered with Wisconsin Conservation Voters, Citizen Action of Wisconsin Driftless Co-op, and Solar on La Crosse Schools to urge the La Crosse School District to make its own strong commitment to addressing the climate crisis institutionally. As a regional leader, La Crosse has an opportunity to make a major impact.

If you are a resident in or have children enrolled in the La Crosse School District, please join us in asking La Crosse public schools to move to 100% renewable energy and to make a climate action plan to help them prepare for the future.

Sign the petition at tinyurl.com/CleanSDLC-Petition and then follow the link to write your own letter to district leaders. If you can help contact others, speak at a school board meeting or participate in any other way, please email CRSierraClub@gmail.com

The climate crisis is a child rights crisis!  Climate change poses a major threat to children and young people’s health, nutrition, education, development, survival and future potential. Compared to adults, children require more food and water per unit of their body weight, are less able to survive extreme weather events, and are more susceptible to toxic chemicals, temperature changes and diseases, among other factors.

Critically, current and future generations of children will have to navigate an uncertain future where the current model of growth that links economic development to environmental exploitation is no longer viable.

- from FACT SHEET: COP26 - Children and Climate Change, November 1, 2021, UNICEF

DEADLINE NEAR FOR ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION GRANTS   CRSC is offering  grants of up to $200 each for environmental education projects to schools or community organizations involving young people at the elementary and middle school level within the CRSC region: Crawford, Grant, Jackson, La Crosse, Monroe, Richland, Trempealeau, and Vernon counties.

Applications may be completed online, emailed or mailed. The deadline has been extended to  January 5, 2022. For more information, visit sierraclub.org/wisconsin/coulee/Education or tinyurl.com/CRSC-Students

New for 2021-2022, CRSC will recognize the achievements of and award $150 to a high school senior who demonstrates leadership, action, and environmental stewardship, and who understands the importance of civic engagement in protecting our environment. Eligible students are those graduating from high school in 2022 who reside in the CRSC region: Crawford, Grant, Jackson, La Crosse, Monroe, Richland, Trempealeau, and Vernon counties. The application includes essays and submission of a portfolio. The deadline for applications is March 15, 2022 with the award to be given by the end of April, 2022.  For more information, visit sierraclub.org/wisconsin/coulee/Education or tinyurl.com/CRSC-Students

Funding for these environmental grants and awards is possible thanks to an annual grant from the Paul E. Stry Foundation, shared dues from Sierra Club memberships, and donations made by community members. Email us to learn more: CRSierraClub@gmail.com. 

CHRISTMAS BIRD COUNT     Join more than a century of community science--the 122nd annual Audubon Christmas Bird Count, December 14, 2021 through January 5, 2022. Learn more at www.audubon.org/conservation/join-christmas-bird-count

DECEMBER EVENTS

December 1: Monroe County Climate Task Force listening sessions. 1 p.m. Bank of Cashton, 6 p.m. American Legion Hall, Sparta.  www.co.monroe.wi.us/Home/Components/News/News/152/15

December 1: FILM: The Ants and the Grasshopper sponsored by Edible Madison ONLINE at 7 p.m. More info at ediblemadison.com/antsandgrasshopper

December 2 - 4: Building a Socially Responsible Food Future hosted by the Socially Responsible Agriculture Project ONLINE.  tinyurl.com/SRAP-FoodFuture

December 3 & 4: La Crosse White Privilege Symposium hosted by La Crosse Waking Up White Collaborative ONLINE and at the La Crosse Center. Register at www.laxwakingupwhite.com/white-privilege-symposium.html

December  7: How to Run for Office training offered by the Wisconsin Farmers Union ONLINE from 7:00 to 8:30 p.m. Register at tinyurl.com/WFURun4Office

December 7:  Accelerating the Clean Energy Transition - Reasons to be Hopeful presented by the Rocky Mountain Institute ONLINE at NOON. tinyurl.com/RMI-Hopeful

December 9: Roots of Injustice, Seeds of Change - the legacy of the Doctrine of Discovery sponsored by the Franciscan Spirituality Center ONLINE at 6 p.m. tinyurl.com/FSC-Roots-Seeds

December 10: A Bold Vision for Wisconsin Rail Travel hosted by the High Speed Rail Alliance ONLINE at noon facebook.com/events/1078970969574677/

December 13: Rally for Climate Justice at the UWL Clocktower. 11 a.m. tinyurl.com/Rally4Climate-UWL

December 18: Advanced Candidate Training sponsored by Wisconsin Progress. In person (location TBD) More info at actionnetwork.org/events/la-crosse-advanced-local-training/

December 30: Understanding Resistence to Change - A Workshop for Environmentalists presented by Joanna Moore ONLINE at 11 a.m. joannamoore.com/events

CLIMATE CRISIS - THREE STUDENTS' VIEWS    

By: Adrian Cuff

Adrian Cuff is a senior at UW-La Crosse majoring in microbiology with a minor in environmental science. As part of his coursework for the Capstone for Environmental Science class, Adrian is submitting articles about local environmental issues for our newsletter.

As we all know, the world we live in today is a part of a major climate crisis. Many people know about the crisis, but many do not know about it. I set out to learn whether young adults (UWL students) knew about the crisis and how they felt about the whole situation. I ended up choosing three random students at UWL, and they were different ages along with having differing views. Here’s what they had to say:

Student 1: “Yes, I am aware of the climate crisis. I am worried about our future on our beautiful planet that we are taking for granted and using up her resources way too quickly. It does suck that we are in a global pandemic, and the focus on the environment was pushed to the side. I know everyone says that one person can’t change the world, but if we work together, we can fix the issues that are harming the environment. I do my best to help save the environment from bringing my own bags into grocery stores, to using a water bottle, and many other things. I do as much as I can to be green, and hopefully my efforts will create a better future for the next generations.”

Student 2: “The climate crisis is very important, and I just don’t understand why it is not talked about more. I think most people would see the new bill that Biden passed that pushes for my green energy in the United States, but besides that it’s been swept under the rug. It makes me sick that huge corporations don’t want to fix their emissions and make the right decisions to save the planet because it would cost them money. Everyone is so greedy anymore, I guess they forget they need clean air, and clean water to live. Money won’t allow you to live. I do think it’s tough to be green as a person, and I do not think I’ll be making any changes because no one else is from what I’ve seen.”

Student 3: “The climate crisis is important, but I do not know how we will be able to fix our mistakes in time. All the major fossil fuel corporations lobby extremely hard to the politicians that run this country and will always make right decisions for the best interest of these corporations. It just makes me sick. I try to help the environment when I can, but it’s hard since I live on campus. I use an Ozzie container, which I know saves a lot of waste from hitting the landfills and use a water bottle as well. I know I definitely can try harder to be green, but UWL should also look at trying to be greener as well.”

Overall, it is good to see these students know about the climate crisis, and that it is still very important to figure out for humanity’s future. UWL deserves a lot of credit for hosting many events, speakers, and even having clubs like Students for Sustainability that spread the information about the environment throughout the campus and beyond. A cleaner and greener future doesn’t look too far on the horizon, and I cannot wait to see what this younger generation can achieve in the future

SIERRA STUDENT COALITION   The Sierra Student Coalition is a network of young people ages 14-35 organizing for climate, racial and economic justice. The group offers training programs, popular education, leadership development opportunities, campaigns, resources, and a community of support for youth across the country.

SPROG is the Sierra Student Coalition’s longest running training program, and is typically an intensive one-week leadership training program that teaches tools for environmental and social justice activism to young people across the country. To learn more and apply for training programs, visit www.sierraclub.org/youth

JULIANA V. UNITED STATES     In 2015, 21 youth sued the United States government for failure to protect their future by not acting to combat climate change.  The suit, called Juliana v. United States, was filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Oregon in 2015.

The complaint asserts that, through the government's affirmative actions that cause climate change, it has violated the youngest generation’s constitutional rights to life, liberty, and property, as well as failed to protect essential public trust resources.

Read about the case at www.youthvgov.org/our-case

COULEE REGION SIERRA CLUB BOARD ELECTIONS     Thank you for participating in the democratic process of electing your local Sierra Club representatives!  Just enter your member number and then vote for up to four candidates, to begin two-year terms in January 2022. The candidate bios are below. Please complete one ballot per member (both members in a Joint membership may cast ballots). You will receive a link to the online ballot and your member number in an email OR via postcard. Your member number is required so your membership can be verified by the Election Committee. Please vote either with the online ballot OR by printing, completing, and mailing the ballot show below.

** All ballots must be received by midnight December 28, 2021. **
If you choose to print and mail the ballot shown below, please mail it by December 21 to:
1815 Cameron Ave. La Crosse, WI  54601

Kathy Allen - Kathy lives in La Crosse and was elected to the Coulee Region board in 2018. She has served as the group's president since January 2020. Kathy was a member of the "Ready for 100" team that worked with the city and county of La Crosse to pass 100% renewable energy transition resolutions. She is currently serving on the La Crosse County Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee. In her free time, she enjoys cycling on the Driftless Region's roads and trails.

Ned Gatzke - Ned has lived in rural Monroe County for 45+ years, interacting with a small woodland and prairie landscape. He first joined the Sierra Club in 1974. He is on the board of Wisconsin Conservation Voters/Voices, has been on the board of The Prairie Enthusiasts (Coulee Region Chapter), and is a citizen participant on the Monroe County Climate Change Task Force. Ned was present for the first Earth Day in 1970, and his travels throughout North America since then have provided him a larger perspective on environmental issues for people living in other places.

Cathy Van Maren - Cathy is retired and lives in La Crosse but also spends time in Vernon County. She has been the newsletter editor for several years and is active on the CRSC "Ready for 100" team and the state Sierra Club  Transit Equity team. She's an "active transportation" (public transit, walking, bicycling) advocate, working with local and state transit advocacy groups and, locally, to push for better transportation/commuter cycling infrastructure, but she also owns an electric car and has worked on several EV education and outreach programs. She's on the city of La Crosse Climate Action Plan Steering Committee and volunteers at city Community Victory Gardens.

Pat Wilson - Pat is enjoying retirement in La Crosse, WI.  He joined the Sierra Club in 1976 because he appreciated the hiking trails the Sierra Club had cleared on Nature Conservancy properties in the Baraboo Hills.  He's a past president of the Coulee Region Group and the Sierra Club's Wisconsin River Touring Section.  Currently he's on the Wisconsin Water Team and the Coulee Region representative to the Sierra Club's Wisconsin Chapter board.  He's also active in the Friends of the Blufflands and the Bluffland Coalition, protecting  regional bluffland habitat and recreational opportunities.