MEMPHIS, Tenn., March 1, 2011 – Each spring, Ducks Unlimited announces its Sweet 16 listing of top-producing college chapters throughout the nation. The following list of chapters made it into the elite group out of nearly 120 DU collegiate chapters.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued final approval for a new refrigerant for use in motor vehicle air conditioning systems that does not deplete the ozone layer, which helps protect the environment and people’s health. The new chemical, HFO-1234yf, may now be used in air conditioning for new cars and light trucks. When used appropriately, this chemical can reduce the environmental impact of motor vehicle air conditioners and has a global warming potential that is 99.7 percent less than the current chemical (HFC–134a) used in most car air conditioners.

Since August, the 4th grade class at New Mountain Hill Elementary School in Harris Co. has recycled 607 pounds of paper, 592 pounds of magazines, and 121 pounds of newspapers, yet it's more than awards and recognition that makes this project so successful. Last month students unveiled a brand new community wide recycling center.

Auburn University has put together a task force to help save the oak trees at Toomer's Corner. The group brings together experts in horticulture, agronomy, civil engineering, forestry, chemistry and landscape services.

President Barack Obama today announced the administration’s action plan, under the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative, to achieve lasting conservation of the outdoor spaces that power our nation’s economy, shape our culture, and build our outdoor traditions. This initiative seeks to reinvigorate our approach to conservation and reconnect Americans, especially young people, with the lands and waters that are used for farming and ranching, hunting and fishing, and for families to spend quality time together.

Ducks Unlimited, along with other conservation organizations, is opposing proposed spending cuts in conservation programs released this week by the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee. The cuts would affect wetlands conservation to the tune of nearly $2 billion, including the loss of $47 million in funding forNorth American Wetlands Conservation Act grants.

On Monday, February 28, the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Task Force will hold its next meeting in New Orleans. The meeting will further the task force’s ongoing commitment to supporting the conservation and restoration of resilient and healthy ecosystems in the Gulf of Mexico

Come learn about some of Georgia’s amazing aquatic habitats through interactive lessons from Georgia Native Waters and Project WET. The workshop will include a combination of hands-on activities from the two curricula, exhibit tours, and group discussion to promote awareness, conservation, and appreciation of Georgia’s natural habitats.

For an entire month, Auburn University students living on-campus are competing to see which residence hall can conserve the most water, electricity, and who can increase recycling.

February 12

Nature walks begin at 8 AM on the second and fourth Saturdays of each month from September through May. Join CSU staff for a leisurely walk along the trails at the Oxbow Meadows.

Professor Rich McWilliams of Thomas University in Thomasville, Ga. will leads visitors into the canyons and back in time to discover the geological history of the canyons. The floors of the canyons are often wet and muddy, so be sure to wear appropriate footwear. Bring water and your camera. Register in advance. $5 plus $5 parking. 229-838-4706.

Five WasteWise partners in the southeast were recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for outstanding achievements as 2010 WasteWise award winners. Nationally, there were twenty-four winners, with awards in categories including business, government, and educational sectors.