Herring-loss
A Judge has overruled Federal Fisheries Minister Gail Shea’s decision to open the Vancouver Island Herring fishery after hearing that Shea refused to listen to the recommendations of the scientists in her own department to keep the fishing closed to protect the threatened species.
Harper Conservatives may soon top the “Endangered Species” list
The Canadian Conservative Environment Minister and Fisheries Minister were chastised by the courts for breaking the law by failing to enforce the “Species at Risk Act” and missing statutory deadlines by up to 6 years.
Angry Birds!
“Doves of Peace”, released by Pope Francis in front of the crowds in St Perter’s Square, became sitting ducks for predatory crows and gulls
Sochi Security Breach?
Russia’s plans to display 2 captured Orcas at the Sochi Olympics have provoked international outrage
“Are you working for Enbridge?”
Yet another train derailment spills hazardous materials into Burnaby creek. CN says beavers are partly to blame.
Couch-Surfing!
Large winter waves have eroded beaches at Oahu’s North Shore surfing mecca, Haleiwa, causing some houses to collapse
Enbridge CEO to Harper “At least we don’t have to contend with elves”
A massive road construction project in Iceland was halted as locals protested that it was disrupting an important elf church. Meanwhile in Canada, Harper seems determined to push through approval of the Enbridge Pipeline despite many real environmental concerns.
New Year, New Meaning to “Penguin Plunge” in Antarctica
“I assume the Penguin Plunge will be a spectator sport this year!” Travellers on a Russian research ship stuck in ice at Antarctica since Christmas Eve will have to wait at least until New Year’s Day for rescue.
Jackpine Oil Sands expansion: “Acceptable Risk”
Canada’s environment minister, Leona Aglukkaq approves Royal Dutch Shell’s oil sands expansion saying that though it will “cause significant adverse environmental effects” the risks “are justified in the circumstances”
Hung, Drawn and Cultured 