Katie Dykes’ new job as DEEP commissioner brings old and new challenges, such as the growing threat of climate change.
Connecticut Forest and Park Association
Voters overwhelmingly ratify transportation ‘lockbox’
Voters overwhelmingly approved two amendments to the state Constitution, including a new legal “lockbox” to safeguard funds earmarked for Connecticut’s transportation program.
New farmland harvest – solar energy – creating political sparks
Two well-intentioned environmental polices – one encouraging more renewable power and the other the preservation of farms and forestland – are colliding. They are pitting farmer against farmer and environmental interest groups against one another, putting state departments at odds, and raising the always explosive issue of private property rights versus state policy.
Constitutional amendment fails to make November ballot
A constitutional amendment barring the disposal of state-owned land without a public hearing and legislative approval fell short Wednesday of the margin necessary to be placed on the November ballot.
Session tally: Energy and environment hits, misses and almosts
For those pursuing energy and environmental initiatives, this legislative session was already heading toward half-a-loaf results before the budget impasse erupted. In the end there were big wins, big losses and everything in between.
Connecticut looking for new ways to fund its parks
Faced with a $2 million dollar cut to the Connecticut parks budget, the legislature is considering a new funding model. With 140 state parks and forests, the state is poised to join a trend among states of cobbling together park funding from an array of sources.
As Esty exits, some worry, some hope
In fact many are concerned about his departure, worrying that no successor will have the breadth of expertise Esty had across energy and environmental subjects, and some fear a backsliding, especially in regional energy initiatives.