Publication archives

Washington, D.C. - Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns said Wednesday that the Bush administration would negotiate with Congress on ways to cut agriculture spending. But he said the administration isn't giving up on its proposed cuts, which included new limits on subsidies to large farms.

From the Duluth News Tribune, by John Myers A northern Minnesota loggers' cooperative has gained an environmental stamp of approval by becoming the first such group to become certified for sustainable forestry. The 11-member Forest Management Systems cooperative, based in Aurora, announced Wednesday that it has received certification from the SmartWood program.

From the Washington Post, by Justin Blum A House panel yesterday backed drilling for oil in Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge, advancing a key element of the Bush administration's energy plan.

From Reuters, VANCOUVER, British Columbia - Forestry firms Tembec Inc. and Domtar Inc. unveiled separate agreements with environmental groups on Tuesday, including one campaigning to curb logging in Canada's boreal forests.

From the Environmental News Service Oil and gas drilling and mining interests control land in or near more than two-thirds of national parks, forests and wilderness areas, a computer analysis of 1,855 taxpayer owned public properties in the West reveals.

Brazilian pop star Gilberto Gil broke into song at the famed door of no return, through which millions of slaves left for the Americas - a poignant touch to a tour on which Brazil's leader has underscored common roots and urged a joint fight for more democracy in world trade and at the United Nations.

From the Associated Press, via the Washinton Post, by Amanda Shorey WILLIAMS, Ariz. - Three of Arizona's national forests will soon be providing a smorgasbord for weevils, flies, moths, beetles and sheep.

From the Winona Daily News, By David Krotz Don't look now, but lawns are beginning to disappear. They are being devoured, one chunk at a time, as perennial beds and native trees take bites out of the edges of turf.