Jan 05, 2009 — Most of us assume the government is keeping track of environmental issues such as pollution in water. In reality, most pollution problems are first detected by citizens. Lester Graham reports in some parts of the nation, volunteers step in to make sure their local streams and lakes are clean.  Go to full article

Dec 03, 2008 — At least four North Country counties are planning to sue the Adirondack Park Agency. At issue are new shoreline restrictions approved last month. The rules limit construction and expansion of waterfront homes without an APA variance. As Brian Mann reports, local leaders say political changes in Albany will mean more lawsuits against state agencies.  Go to full article

Sep 01, 2008 — Most North Country gardens are lush given all the rain water this summer. Martha Foley talks with horticulturist Amy Ivy about tips for thinking ahead about watering the garden when it really needs it.  Go to full article

Jul 25, 2008 — The movement to essentially ban water diversions from the Great Lakes moved on to Washington this week. It took years for all eight Great Lakes states to pass the Great Lakes compact. Michigan was the last legislature to ratify it earlier this month. Now Congress needs to act for the compact to become law. Minnesota Democrat James Oberstar, who chairs an influential committee, has promised quick passage in the House. New York Senator Hillary Clinton helped introduce the measure in her chamber on Wednesday. To assess the political landscape awaiting the compact on Capitol Hill, David Sommerstein spoke with journalist Peter Annin. He wrote The Great Lakes Water Wars about the compact. He says it remains a mystery how lawmakers from other parts of the country will react.  Go to full article

Jul 25, 2008 — Take a paddle or hike along a stream, or spend some time gardening and you'll likely hear the familiar click of wings or glimpse a flying glint of blue or green. Dragonflies are a familiar and favorite sight in the North Country. And now, during the summer months, excitement is high among "dragonfliers" whose calendars are extra full because this is the time of year when dragonflies are most commonly seen. But researchers say there are more questions than answers about dragonflies. This is the fourth summer that the DEC and Nature Conservancy have seriously studied dragonflies and their close relatives, damselflies, in some of the more remote parts of the state. With the help of volunteers, biologists are out to foster public interest in the conservation of the colorful, winged insects and their aquatic habitats. Todd Moe found that, for a hobby that includes searching for large bugs in swampy areas, it has a lot of followers.  Go to full article

Jul 14, 2008 — There's a new agreement that says the Great Lakes water has to stay in the Great Lakes. It's been approved now by all eight of the states and the two Canadian provinces that border the Lakes. Rick Pluta reports the agreement is now on its way to Congress.  Go to full article

Jul 14, 2008 — Some parts of the North Country got a good soaking of rain yesterday. But how do you know when enough is enough in the garden? Horticulturist Amy Ivy shares tips on how and when to water the garden. She told Todd Moe that a rain gauge helps.  Go to full article

Jun 10, 2008 — The Great Lakes might be the most ignored resource on the continent. Great Lakes advocates say they have not been able to get enough attention or money from Congress. Rebecca Williams reports one group is outlining what needs to be done to fix the Lakes before climate change makes things worse.  Go to full article

Jun 10, 2008 — NCPR is media sponsor for the No-Octane Regatta this Saturday at Little Wolf Lake just outside Tupper Lake. The event is open to all people-powered small craft, with a special emphasis on wooden boats. Todd Moe talks with co-organizer Hallie Bond about what's new at the regatta this year.  Go to full article

May 27, 2008 — A green technology popular on highways is now ready for the waterways just in time for summer. Only one catch: the world's first hybrid recreational boat could put a hole in your wallet. Tamara Keith reports.  Go to full article