April 2008
Will Promote Cleaner Air, Reduce Global Warming
WASHINGTON , D.C. - Tuesday, April 22, 2008, Rep. Doris Matsui (CA-05) introduced the Energy Conservation Through Trees Act of 2008 to help lower utility bills and improve air quality. By promoting the strategic planting of trees, the amount of energy needed to heat and cool homes will be reduced.
"Today, we are tasked with reducing our dependence on foreign oil, stabilizing our energy grid, and improving air quality. By harnessing the enterprising spirit of Americans and utilizing a diverse range of innovative approaches, we can accomplish this goal," said Rep. Matsui.
Patterned after the successful model established by the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD), the Energy Conservation Through Trees Act seeks to save Americans dramatic amounts of money on their utility bills and reduce outside temperatures in urban areas. The program conducted by SMUD has been proven to lower energy bills, make local power utilities more cost-effective, and reduce air pollution.
Planting shade trees around homes in a strategic manner is a proven way to lower energy demand in residential areas. According to research conducted by the Department of Energy, three shade trees strategically planted around a house can reduce home air-conditioning bills by about 30 percent in some cities, and a nationwide shade program could reduce air-conditioning use by at least 10 percent. Shade trees also help to:
- Improve public health and air quality by absorbing particulate matter;
- Store carbon dioxide to help slow global warming;
- Reduce the risk of flooding in urban areas by absorbing stormwater runoff;
- Improve private property values and increase residential aesthetics;
- Preserve public infrastructure, such as streets and sidewalks. The legislation requires the use of science-based tree-siting guidelines to ensure that trees are not planted in locations that will disrupt pre-existing infrastructure, block solar panels and wind turbines, or damage power lines. Consultation during the development of these guidelines must be provided by Technical Advisory Committees (TACs) that are composed of local energy and arboricultural experts.
It also requires utilities that receive assistance to partner with nonprofit tree-planting organizations or other municipal infrastructure groups to run the technical side of the program. These nonprofit groups are meant to serve as tree-planting experts to complement utilities' financial interest in lowering peak energy demand and reducing consumption. They will provide technical and outreach assistance, work with tree recipients, and ensure that trees are planted in the right place to maximize energy conservation.
"In Sacramento, we are committed to solving the global warming crisis and reducing our impact on our planet. By expanding one of our successful local initiatives to the national level, we can help ensure that we are handing over a cleaner world to future generations," said Rep. Matsui.
"My legislation is a piece of the puzzle that will become the solution to our environmental challenges and securing our energy independence. We must take action now to make sure that our planet continues to thrive and flourish for years to come. Reducing our environmental impact will have far-reaching effects into the quality of life for the American people, and people around the world," said Rep. Matsui.
On April 23, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced the official eradication of the Asian longhorned beetle (Anoplophora glabripennis) (ALB) from Illinois. The announcement was held in the Ravenswood, Chicago neighborhood where the pest was found almost 10 years ago. This makes Illinois the first state fighting active ALB infestations to declare victory over the invasive insect.
ALB was discovered in Illinois in the summer of 1998, and the most recent infestation was detected around Chicago's Oz Park in 2003. Since that time, extensive surveys have not found adult ALB or any signs of infestation. With at least four years of active surveys and no signs of insects or infestation uncovered, USDA and its partners now can declare ALB eradication in Illinois.
Between 1998 and 2006, approximately 1,771 host trees were removed to destroy the invasive insect. In Illinois, ALB quarantine zones have existed in numerous Chicago neighborhoods, including Oz Park, Ravenswood, Kilbourn Park, Loyola, Park Ridge, O'Hare, Addison and Summit. As many as 35 square miles were quarantined for the pest in and around Chicago, with 61 square miles considered infested and surveyed for signs of beetles. The last chemical treatments took place in the Oz Park area in 2006.
The ALB is about 1.5 inches long and shiny black with antenna up to twice the length of their bodies, banded in black and white. Host tree species that beetles favor include maple, birch, elm and poplar, among others.
USDA currently is working with its state and local government partners to eradicate ALB in parts of New York and in central New Jersey. Additional information about ALB can be found at www.aphis.usda.gov.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. [April 16, 2008] - Husqvarna today announced direct interaction with independent dealers in all 50 states.
Beginning today, Husqvarna's authorized dealers nationwide will enjoy benefits such as direct connection with Husqvarna sales representatives, ordering directly from Husqvarna and will benefit from the comprehensive sales, service, financial services and marketing support that Husqvarna provides its dealer network.
"Our direct, nationwide communication not only provides our dealers with the best support in the industry, but also enables them to better service their customers," said Dave Zerfoss, president, Husqvarna Forest and Garden Company. "Since we know brand preference and loyalty will be won or lost on service, our relationship with and support for our dealers is of utmost importance."
In addition, Husqvarna's dealers are able to benefit from the "All Year Program" - an initiative that enables dealers to order the products they need at the rate they need it in order to better manage inventory and cash flow. Husqvarna's financial services for dealers include wholesale inventory financing, retail financing for their customers with the Husqvarna credit card, equipment leasing for the dealer's commercial end users, a used equipment trade in program, and business improvement loans for dealers. Husqvarna also offers dealers both in person and online technical service education along with a warranty reimbursement program that enables Husqvarna dealers to be adequately compensated for taking care of Husqvarna customers.
Husqvarna's Total Source dealers are also promoted in the company's new Husqvarna Brand marketing campaign, "Master Your Great Outdoors," a program focused on outdoor enthusiasts and driving traffic to Husqvarna Total Source dealers. This comprehensive, integrated marketing campaign includes national TV, radio and print advertisements as well as a Web-based resource portal, www.MasterYourGreatOutdoors.com, providing helpful information and outdoor advice. The site also features quarterly Web contests to spark consumer interest and engagement.
About Husqvarna
Husqvarna is the world's largest producer of lawn mowers, chainsaws and portable gas-powered garden equipment such as trimmers and blowers. The Group is also a world leader in diamond tools and cutting equipment for the construction and stone industries. Net sales in 2007 were SEK 33.3 billion and the average number of employees was 16,000.
www.usa.husqvarna.com
KENT, OH--The Davey Tree Expert Company has acquired Wolf Tree Experts, Inc., a tree service company based in Knoxville, Tennessee. Wolf Tree is 700 employees strong with a service area covering 13 states. Expected annualized revenues are in excess of $40 million. Their customers include rural electric co-ops, municipalities, and investor-owned utilities. They will operate as a wholly-owned Davey subsidiary. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. This acquisition is Davey's twelfth within the past two years and largest to date.
Wolf Tree was established in 1926 by Jacob L. Wolf, a man dedicated to providing safe and efficient tree trimming services. A former Davey employee, Wolf's early training is rooted in the Davey Company. He attended the Davey Institute of Tree Sciences in the early 1920's and was the youngest foreman in Davey's history during his tenure with the company.
"Wolf Tree and Davey Tree combined have nearly 200 years of experience providing customers with stable, cost-effective service. We will continue to focus on service integrity as we build on the best qualities of both companies," said Karl J. Warnke, Davey President and CEO.
"The Davey Tree Expert Company, the oldest tree care company in North America, is a leading utility service provider. Our performance in 2007 was outstanding; especially when you consider that we achieved record revenue and income which generated a healthy 22% increase in our stock price. The acquisition of Wolf Tree can only allow us to further build on our financial successes," said Warnke.
Warnke added, "Both Wolf Tree and Davey Tree share a commitment to our frontline employees who deliver value added service to our customers. We are pleased that Wolf Tree employees now have the opportunity to become Davey employee owners."
Jacob Wolf's grandson and current Wolf Tree President Tom Wolf said, "Our companies have parallel histories. Our office has a photo hanging on the wall from the 1920's featuring Davey foremen; it is a constant reminder of Davey's heritage and history and the connection of our companies."
"We were attracted to Davey because of the company's reputation. Davey exemplifies a good company. We know that Davey looks after its employees. While the Wolf Tree name is not changing, it is an exciting time as we begin to work together," said Wolf.
The Davey Tree Expert Company provides tree, shrub and lawn care, utility services, large tree moving, commercial grounds management and consulting services throughout North America. Founded in 1880, Davey is employee owned and has more than 7,000 employees. For more information about Davey visit www.davey.com and for more information about Wolf Tree, visit www.wolftreeinc.com.
January 2008
The U.S. Forest Service and Davey Tree Expert Company are developing I-PED, a pest detection protocol that integrates pest detection with tree inventory efforts. This new tool is expected to provide a standardized method for integrating pest detection into urban forestry management, broaden efforts to detect exotic pests, and provide a field tool that communities can use to detect pest populations across broad areas. The tool is needed because exotic pests are first introduced into urban areas and remain undetected until populations are well established and have had harmful impacts on the health of host trees. A project planning and development team is working to move this effort forward. The team includes staff from the U.S. Forest Service, USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service, Davey Tree Expert Company, Ohio Department of Natural Resources, the University of Georgia, and the Bugwood Network. The Society for Municipal Arborists has taken the lead in supporting beta testing of the I-PED desktop and field program. Four pilot communities and Cornell University’s Student Weekend Arborist Team (SWAT) have completed training and collection of data for analysis. Beta teams include urban forestry professionals from Ithaca, NY; Chattanooga, TN; Wilmette, IL; and Dublin, OH.
When completed, I-PED will provide a standardized method of observing trees for insect or disease problems. The assessment tool will include a user manual that identifies signs and symptoms of pests having significant urban forestry impacts; a Web site with online resources, user instructions, and diagnostic contacts; and a national database that will enable pest specialists to access regional pest data to search for pest detection anomalies and trends.
For more information, contact Dan Twardus, Forest Health Management, U.S. Forest Service, at dtwardus@fs.fed.us.
December 2007
Titusville, PA—December 14, 2007, AlturnaMats, Inc., the world’s leading producer of ground protection mats, announces the acquisition of one of its major competitors, Mobile Matts, Green Bay, WI. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. According to Michael Gierlach, president of AlturnaMats, the integration of AlturnaMats with Mobile Matts comprises the largest ground protection mat manufacturing group in the nation and enables dealers worldwide to offer customers a broad selection of mats. These rugged ground protection mats are used to eliminate damage to lawns and soft terrain due to vehicle traffic in such markets as landscape, construction, tree care, cemetery, well drilling and others. The mats are used to keep heavy vehicles from getting bogged down in mud.
Under terms of the new arrangement, Phil Schounard will continue to head up Mobile Matts and operate from the Green Bay facility; however, as of January 1, 2008, Mobile Matts will now be available through AlturnaMats’ extensive dealer network. Currently, AlturnaMats, Inc. offers its well known AlturnaMats which feature a bold diamond plate tread and VersaMats which provide a finer, slip-resistant tread designed for both vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Mobile Matts are slightly lighter in weight and have a unique "M" shaped tread. All three mats are fully guaranteed for six years, though they last much longer. Both firms also market one-piece plastic outrigger pads in a large variety of sizes.
AlturnaMats can be reached at 888-544 6287 or visit www.alturnamats.com. Mobile Matts is available at 800 592 5270 or www.mobilematt.com.
November 2007
The acquisition is an opportunity for Novozymes to accelerate the company’s entry into the organic and sustainable agriculture market
Salem, Va (Dec 13, 2007) – Today Novozymes announced completion of the acquisition of Canada-based Philom Bios. The inoculant company will become the cornerstone of Novozymes’ BioAgriculture business.
“This is a strategy we have been developing since the beginning of 2006 when we planned our entry into the organic and sustainable agriculture market,” said Novozymes Biologicals’ President Ted Melnik.
Using technologies developed in Salem, Va, Novozymes will expand Philom Bios’ current market presence in the agricultural segment. The merger provides future opportunities for growth of Novozymes in Salem; however, no immediate changes are planned. Philom Bios will continue to do business from Saskatoon, Canada and Novozymes Biologicals’ existing business will remain in Salem.
“We are committed to establishing Novozymes as a leader in the sustainable agriculture industry, providing earth-friendly alternatives to traditional pesticides and fertilizers,” Melnik explained. “This merger reinforces that commitment.”
October 2007
The Tree Care Industry Association (TCIA) wants the owners, managers and safety directors of tree care companies around the U.S. to know that effective, low-cost training in temporary traffic control is available. Read more...
October 2007
TCIA, through its Tree Care Industry Association Foundation, received a grant from the USDA Department of Agriculture, Northeastern Area, to develop educational materials about invasive species that cause damage to North American trees. The program will provide arborists and homeowners with information about how to identify and report invasive species such as Emerald Ash Borer and Sirex Woodwasp. The first products of this grant-funded effort are the Tree Bugs information cards and sheets, and the First Detector Field Guides. These materials are available for download below.
August 2007
Hamilton, Bermuda, July 29, 2007 —Ingersoll-Rand Company Limited (NYSE:IR) today announced that it has agreed to sell its Bobcat, Utility Equipment and Attachments business units to Doosan Infracore for cash proceeds of approximately $4.9 billion. The sale is subject to customary closing conditions and is targeted to close early in the 2007 fourth quarter.
The combined businesses manufacture and sell compact equipment, including skid-steer loaders, compact track loaders, mini-excavators and telescopic tool handlers; portable air compressors, generators, and light towers; general-purpose light construction equipment; and attachments. For full-year 2006 these businesses collectively generated approximately $2.6 billion in revenues. The sale includes manufacturing facilities in Gwinner and Bismarck, North Dakota; Carrollton, Georgia; Litchfield, Minnesota; Petersburg, Virginia; Wujiang, China; Dobris, Czech Republic; Lyon and Pontchateau, France; Slane, Ireland; and Tredegar, Wales. The businesses employ approximately 5,700 people worldwide.
“The sale of Bobcat, Utility Equipment and Attachments represents the last major action to transform our business portfolio to reposition Ingersoll Rand as a diversified industrial company,” said Herbert L. Henkel, chairman, president and chief executive officer. “We remain focused on driving growth and creating shareholder value through three strategic platforms serving global climate control, industrial and security markets. I am confident that these businesses will deliver consistent financial performance over the long term and across all phases of the economic cycle.
Triangle Park , N.C. , Aug. 2, 2007 – Bayer Environmental Science is pleased that Etigra LLC has agreed to cease sales and to recall Etigra products that Bayer considers to infringe one of its patents.
Bayer Environmental Science asserted that two termiticide products recently introduced by Etigra, Imida E-Pro 2F Pre/Post Construction Insecticide and Imida E-Pro 75 WSP Pre/Post Construction Insecticide, infringe Bayer’s U.S. Patent No. 6,323,224 protecting the use of imidacloprid on wood products.
Bayer invented and introduced to the market the novel use of imidacloprid to treat wood structures and surfaces. Research efforts from companies like Bayer are based on a foundation of respect for intellectual property rights that enables significant investments in order to generate future technical innovations.
July 2007
At A Glance
Vermeer Manufacturing Company recently donated a brush chipper to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial Society. The Vermeer ®  BC1000XL brush chipper will allow the Park Service to remove undergrowth on hundreds of acres of vulnerable forest around Mount Rushmore, as well as Wind Cave and Jewel Cave, two cave parks within close proximity. The resulting chips will be returned to the area as mulch for the public spaces.
Pella , Iowa — Vermeer Manufacturing Company has donated a Vermeer ® brush chipper to the Mount Rushmore National Memorial Society to assist with the protection and management of the memorial’s natural resources.
The Vermeer brush chipper will be used in local national parks, including Mount Rushmore , one of America ’s iconic parks, as well as Wind Cave and Jewel Cave , two cave parks close by. The forested areas in these parks are threatened by overgrowth and severe drought, which are potential fuel for wild fires.
“The Park Service makes every effort within their means — prescribed burns, clearing of under growth and other careful management practices — to mitigate issues and protect their natural resources,” says Julie Gregg, development director for the Mount Rushmore National Memorial Society. “This chipper will allow the Park Service to clean up the hundreds of acres of vulnerable forest within the park boundaries more effectively, and at the same time provide mulch for the green public areas, returning what would be refuse and dangerous fuel for wild fires back to the ecosystem.”
Vermeer presented the brush chipper to the Society during a press conference and community event held June 26, 2007. The event was attended by local media, community leaders and park officials.
LANSING - The Michigan departments of Agriculture (MDA) and Natural Resources (DNR), along with the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), today announced the confirmation of Sirex Woodwasp in Macomb County. A single specimen was collected from a trap on July 6 and later identified by the USDA.
Sirex Woodwasp is a wood-boring insect native to Europe, western Asia, and northern Africa and is a potentially serious pest of commercially produced pine trees. It was first detected in North America in Oswego, N.Y. in 2004, and has since been found throughout central New York, northern Pennsylvania, and southern Ontario.
The larvae of this exotic pest are responsible for damaging the tree. It severs the trees’ conductive tissues, interrupting the transport of water and nutrients. Adult females lay their eggs in two- and three-needled pine
trees, including: Austrian, jack, red, and Scotch pines.
“At this point, we don’t know whether this is part of an established Michigan infestation,” said MDA Director Mitch Irwin. "We don't anticipate this pest to have a major economic impact on the state's nursery, landscape and Christmas tree industries. We will, however, vigorously monitor this
exotic pest and its potential to impact our forest systems."
The trap is one of more than 250 trapping locations established throughout Michigan through a cooperative effort that includes the USDA, MDA, DNR, Michigan Technological University and Michigan State University. This work is part of an international effort to delimit the extent of the infestation
in North America.
The USDA Forest Service Northeastern Area has released a document titled "Cost-Effective Tree Removal and Utilization Strategies to Address Invasive Species Attacks." This was created through a collaboration of the Forest Service, the SE Michigan RC&D, and the Michigan DNR.
The Senate this morning rejected Majority Leader Reid's attempt to bring a comprehensive immigration measure to a final vote, dealing a potentially fatal blow to the White House-backed measure. The vote was 53-46 against Reid's motion for cloture, 14 votes short of the 60 votes that were needed. Reid pulled the bill from consideration after the vote. He could bring it back to the floor at a later date, but that prospect seemed unlikely today. How they voted.....
YEA: 46
Akaka (D-HI)
Bennett (R-UT)
Biden (D-DE)
Boxer (D-CA)
Cantwell (D-WA)
Cardin (D-MD)
Carper (D-DE)
Casey (D-PA)
Clinton (D-NY)
Conrad (D-ND)
Craig (R-ID)
Dodd (D-CT)
Durbin (D-IL)
Feingold (D-WI)
Feinstein (D-CA)
Graham (R-SC) |
Gregg (R-NH)
Hagel (R-NE)
Inouye (D-HI)
Kennedy (D-MA)
Kerry (D-MA)
Klobuchar (D-MN)
Kohl (D-WI)
Kyl (R-AZ)
Lautenberg (D-NJ)
Leahy (D-VT)
Levin (D-MI)
Lieberman (ID-CT)
Lincoln (D-AR)
Lott (R-MS)
Lugar (R-IN)
Martinez (R-FL) |
McCain (R-AZ)
Menendez (D-NJ)
Mikulski (D-MD)
Murray (D-WA)
Nelson (D-FL)
Obama (D-IL)
Reed (D-RI)
Reid (D-NV)
Salazar (D-CO)
Schumer (D-NY)
Snowe (R-ME)
Specter (R-PA)
Whitehouse (D-RI)
Wyden (D-OR) |
NAY: 53
Alexander (R-TN)
Allard (R-CO)
Barrasso (R-WY)
Baucus (D-MT)
Bayh (D-IN)
Bingaman (D-NM)
Bond (R-MO)
Brown (D-OH)
Brownback (R-KS)
Bunning (R-KY)
Burr (R-NC)
Byrd (D-WV)
Chambliss (R-GA)
Coburn (R-OK)
Cochran (R-MS)
Coleman (R-MN)
Collins (R-ME)
Corker (R-TN) |
Cornyn (R-TX)
Crapo (R-ID)
DeMint (R-SC)
Dole (R-NC)
Domenici (R-NM)
Dorgan (D-ND)
Ensign (R-NV)
Enzi (R-WY)
Grassley (R-IA)
Harkin (D-IA)
Hatch (R-UT)
Hutchison (R-TX)
Inhofe (R-OK)
Isakson (R-GA)
Landrieu (D-LA)
McCaskill (D-MO)
McConnell (R-KY)
Murkowski (R-AK)
|
Nelson (D-NE)
Pryor (D-AR)
Roberts (R-KS)
Rockefeller (D-WV)
Sanders (I-VT)
Sessions (R-AL)
Shelby (R-AL)
Smith (R-OR)
Stabenow (D-MI)
Stevens (R-AK)
Sununu (R-NH)
Tester (D-MT)
Thune (R-SD)
Vitter (R-LA)
Voinovich (R-OH)
Warner (R-VA)
Webb (D-VA) |
Pella , Iowa —Vermeer Manufacturing Company, based in Pella, Iowa, has announced intentions to purchase a 50 percent stake in Wildcat Mfg. Co. Incorporated located in Freeman, S.D. Wildcat manufactures an extensive line of compost turners and trommel screens. The purchase will complement the growing line of tub and horizontal grinders and compost turning equipment manufactured by Vermeer. Vermeer will assume management responsibility for the operation. The agreement is expected to be finalized this summer.
Vermeer Manufacturing Company, a leading manufacturer of tree care, wood waste recycling and composting equipment, has announced intentions to acquire a 50 percent stake in Wildcat Mfg. Co. Incorporated. Based in Freeman , S.D. , Wildcat is a leading manufacturer of compost turners, trommel screens and green waste sorting equipment.
“Vermeer has been engaged in the composting market for a decade with our tub and horizontal grinder line,” says Mike Byram, senior director of environmental solutions for Vermeer. “We believe current industry trends and regulations will continue to divert organic matter from landfills and fuel additional growth in this market.”
Earlier this year, Vermeer entered the compost turner market with the introduction of the CT670 compost turner that features a patented elevating face technology.
Wildcat is known for constructing reliable and easy-to-service equipment, Byram adds. They are also considered a leader in the design, development and manufacture of drum-style compost turners and trommel screen technology. The purchase of an interest in Wildcat complements the growing line of tub and horizontal grinders and compost turning equipment manufactured by Vermeer.
Vermeer will assume management responsibility for Wildcat and anticipates the acquisition will be completed this summer.
“We have made great strides over the past decade to become better stewards of the environment, and the addition of the compost turner equipment is an extension of this effort,” says Byram.
More information on Vermeer and Wildcat products and services can be found on the company Web sites at vermeer.com or wildcatmfg.com, or by e-mailing Vermeer at salesinfo@vermeermfg.com.
For more information:
Charli Fontana
Vermeer Manufacturing Company
P.O. Box 200
Pella , Iowa 50219
charlifontana@vermeermfg.com
Husqvarna has signed a Letter of Intent with Komatsu Ltd. regarding acquisition of the outdoor power products operation within Komatsu Zenoah Co. ("Komatsu Zenoah").
Komatsu Zenoah is a leading producer of portable outdoor power products and is the market leader in Japan. The outdoor-product range comprises mainly brush cutters, chainsaws, trimmers and blowers. Sales for this operation in 2005/2006, the latest fiscal year, amounted to approximately JPY 19 billion (approximately USD 170m), of which about half in Japan. The number of employees was approximately 700. Production is based in Japan and China.
The acquisition will strengthen Husqvarna's position in the global market for professional forestry equipment as well as portable lawn and garden equipment, and will also strengthen the Group's presence in Asia.
A final agreement is expected to be signed before year-end, subject to due diligence and approval by the relevant authorities. The acquisition is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2007. The operation will be integrated in the Group's Professional Products business area.
"Komatsu Zenoah has a strong product offering and extensive expertise in two-stroke engines. This provides a good fit with Husqvarna's operations, and we see substantial opportunities for achieving synergies in several areas. The acquisition will also strengthen our position in Asia in terms of both market presence and production", says Bengt Andersson, President and CEO of Husqvarna.
For more information, please contact Åsa Stenqvist, Senior Vice President, Corporate Communications and Investor Relations, tel. +46 8 738 64 94
Husqvarna is the world's largest producer of chainsaws, lawn mowers and other portable petrol-powered garden equipment such as trimmers and blowers. The Group is also a world leader in diamond tools and cutting equipment for the construction and stone industries.
Net sales in 2005 were SEK 28.8 billion and the average number of employees was 11,700.
The emerald ash borer (EAB) (Click for info), a serious invasive insect that feeds on and kills ash trees, has been detected in Prince George’s County. The Maryland Departments of Agriculture and Natural Resources have partnered to develop and implement an EAB eradication plan, and late last week DNR introduced an online In Focus page to help educate citizens about the pest. To help control the spread of EAB, Maryland citizens and visitors are asked to strictly comply with an established quarantine that prohibits the transport of firewood from the infested area to any other area, and to refrain from bringing firewood into Maryland from other states. To access DNR’s In Focus, click here.
April 2006
Washington, D.C.– U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced today that it has received a sufficient number of petitions to reach the congressionally mandated H-2B cap for the final six months of Fiscal Year 2006 (FY 2006). USCIS is hereby notifying the public that April 4, 2006 is the “final receipt date” for new H-2B worker petitions requesting employment start dates prior to October 1, 2006.
The “final receipt date” is the date on which USCIS determines that it has received enough cap-subject petitions to reach the limit of 33,000 H-2B workers for the second half of FY 2006.
USCIS will apply a computer-generated random selection process to all petitions, which are subject to the cap and were received on April 4, 2006. This process will select the number of petitions needed to meet the cap. USCIS will reject all cap-subject petitions not randomly selected. USCIS will also reject petitions for new H-2B workers seeking employment start dates prior to October 1, 2006 that arrive after April 4, 2006.
Petitions for both current and returning H-2B workers do not count towards the congressionally mandated bi-annual H-2B cap. “Returning workers” are exempt from H-2B cap limitations. In order to qualify, the worker must have counted against the H-2B numerical cap between October 1, 2002 and September 30, 2005. Any worker not certified as a “returning worker” is subject to the numerical limitations for the relevant fiscal year. Petitions received after the “final receipt date” which contain a combination of “returning workers” and workers subject to the H-2B cap will be rejected with respect to non-returning workers, and petitioning employers will receive partial approvals for those aliens who qualify as “returning workers” if otherwise approvable.
USCIS will continue to process petitions filed to:
- Extend the stay of a current H-2B worker in the United States;
- Change the terms of employment for current H-2B workers and extend their stay;
- Allow current H-2B workers to change or add employers and extend their stay; or
- Request eligible H-2B “returning workers.”
More information about the H-2B work program is available at www.uscis.gov or by calling the National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283.
March 2006
"Don’t believe everything you read on the Internet!"
That is the message Commissioner of Agriculture and Forestry Bob Odom is stressing to the public as an email rumor about Formosan termite-infested mulch is circling the globe.
The email warns consumers not to purchase “cheap” wood mulch at major home improvement chains because it may be infested with Formosan termites.
“The email is not accurate and doesn’t even mention the quarantines this department put in place last fall to keep Formosan termites from spreading,” Odom said. The Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry issued quarantines following the hurricanes for woody debris in Cameron, Calcasieu, Jefferson, Jefferson Davis, Orleans, Plaquemines, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. John, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa and Washington parishes. Woody debris cannot be moved out of these areas without first submitting a plan for treatment to the department.
“I’ve had my people out looking into these claims to make sure there are no violations of the quarantine. I’ve also had our invasive pest expert contact the stores mentioned in the email and we’ve yet to find any validity to the claims in the email,” Odom said.
“In my opinion, someone is using the Internet to cause hysteria about a problem that doesn’t really exist. If there are people out there who know about someone violating the quarantines, then they need to report it to us. We’ll shut the culprits down real quick but it has to be reported,” Odom said. “I think the quarantines doing the job, though. We’ve worked with the debris contractors, the Corps of Engineers and FEMA to handle the debris and quarantines.”
For more information about this popular email hoax, and many others, visit
http://www.snopes.com/inboxer/household/termites.asp
February 2006
The U.S. consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with Makita and Dolmar, has announced a voluntary recall of 3,400 and 1,300 of the companies’ chain saw units, respectively, after learning that the flywheels on some of the chain saws can come apart during use, which could cause serious personal injury. The companies have received three reports of the flywheel coming apart. There have been no reports of injury. The recall involves Makita DCS6401 and DCS7901-model chain saws in three serial number ranges, and the Dolmar PS6400 and PS7900-model saws in two serial number ranges.
The saws were sold by power equipment distributors and industrial contractor supply houses nationwide from October 2004 through August 2005 for between $520 and $750.
February 2006
 SherrillTree Supply Company named Alma Hill as president. Hill previously served as director of operations. She will report directly to Tobe Sherrill, former company president and newly named CEO.
Hill will oversee national and international marketing, sales and distribution. "(Hill) has played a key role in the success of our company and her 22 years of experience in management and distribution will provide the leadership we need to maintain our role as the leading provider of high quality tree care supplies," said Tobe Sherrill.
February 2006
Virginia Beach, Va. – Power equipment manufacturer STIHL Inc. announced today that it will be expanding operations in Virginia Beach with a capital investment of over $78.4 million. Slated for completion in 2007, the initial two-phased expansion will create in excess of 150 new jobs, which is part of an overall corporate plan to add up to 300 new positions in the next year.
“We are pleased to be able to continue to add jobs here in support of the local and national economies in lieu of outsourcing,” stated Fred Whyte, president of STIHL Inc. “Although we export to over 80 countries, the United States is still the largest single market for our products. Consequently, expanding manufacturing here in Virginia Beach has repeatedly proven to be a sound business decision for STIHL.”
“I met with members of the STIHL management board during a trade trip two years ago, and I am pleased to have an opportunity to announce this expansion and the creation of 150 new jobs before my term as governor ends," Governor Warner said. “This project marks the largest single facility investment in the history of STIHL Incorporated, and it is clear Virginia Beach has provided the company with the tools for success."
In phase one, a new 60,000-square-foot facility on London Bridge Road will house manufacturing operations for STIHL guide bars, which are used on chain saws. This will be the first time that guide bars will be manufactured in the U.S. for STIHL and will represent an investment of over $20 million by the company. In phase two, an investment of more than $58.4 million will expand one warehouse by 88,000 square feet and convert other existing warehouse space into manufacturing for additional crankshaft and machining operations.
“We are extremely proud that STIHL Incorporated is making the largest single manufacturing capital investment in Virginia Beach history,” said Mayor Meyera E. Oberndorf. “For more than 30 years, the City of Virginia Beach has enjoyed an excellent relationship with STIHL and its world-class workforce. Throughout the years, we’ve witnessed tremendous growth both for STIHL and the City itself. Just three years ago, STIHL expanded by $60.8 million and 200 employees. This further expansion of one of the world’s finest manufacturing operations by $78.4 million in capital investment and 150 new high-paying jobs not only is a testament to Virginia Beach’s pro-business attitude and economic development strategy, but it is also critical to the economic vitality of our outstanding community.”
Significant increases in demand for STIHL guide bars have led to the new production facility in the U.S. The new Virginia Beach facility will primarily provide guide bars to markets in North and South America.
January 2006
Release #06-063 Firm’s Hotline: (800) 610-6677
Consumer Product Safety Commission Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772
CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908
WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.
Name of Product: Stihl-brand MS 192 T Chain Saws
Units: About 23,500
Manufacturer: Stihl Inc., of Virginia Beach, Va.
Hazard: These chain saws can leak fuel, posing a fire hazard. A connection in the ignition grounding system could loosen and create a spark, posing a fire hazard. Also the springs in the clutch assembly could come out of position allowing a spring of the clutch to be projected from the saw housing resulting in injury to the user.
Incidents/Injuries: None reported.
Description: The recalled Stihl-brand chain saws have model number MS 192 T, located on the side of the chain saw’s starter housing. They include serial numbers 264371702 through 266087005, which is located on the top/front of the chain saw’s housing.
Sold at: Authorized Stihl dealers nationwide from January 2005 through July 2005 for about $280.
Manufactured in: United States
Remedy: Consumers should stop using these chain saws immediately and return them to an authorized Stihl dealer for a free repair.
Consumer Contact: Call Stihl Inc. at (800) 610-6677 between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit Stihl’s Web site at www.stihlusa.com.
January 2006
 Continuing a tradition of volunteer service at the U.S. National Arboretum, Bartlett’s Mid-Atlantic Division used its annual training and skills workshop as an opportunity to help preserve some of the site’s mature maples, conifers and oaks. The workshop enabled Bartlett employees to hone their pruning skills following the latest ANSI A300 Tree Care Standards while also applying new techniques like the use of the Cambium Saver. All of the day’s training was conducted with an emphasis on safety procedures and the proper use of personal protective equipment.
Some of the projects included pruning a group of oaks and sweet gums near the Arboretum’s Azalea Collection, as well as Japanese maple, dogwood, crape myrtle, birch and redwood trees located in the Conifer Collection. In total, employees completed services valued at nearly $20,000 to help enhance and preserve the Arboretum’s beauty.
January 2006
 The Pacific Northwest Chapter of the ISA presented the Utility Arborist award to Rod Soderstrom, vice president and general manager of Davey Tree Services, a division of the Davey Tree Expert Co.
The award, presented at the chapter’s annual meeting in Victoria, B.C., was in recognition of Soderstrom’s more than 35 years of service to the industry. During that time, Soderstrom helped with the leadership of the Certified Utility Arborists apprenticeship program in B.C. and Alberta, and the municipal arborist volunteer project.
Soderstrom joined Davey in 1986 when Davey Tree acquired his organization, High Tree Services Ltd. Soderstrom founded High Tree in 1969.
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