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Energy

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U.S. continues wind energy boom

Wind power additions rebounded in 2014, with 4,854 megawatts of new capacity added in the United States, representing $8.3 billion in new investments, the U.S. Department of Energy reported. The wind industry grew to 65.9 gigawatts …

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Bacteria, toxic algae prompt warnings at 15 state beaches

With Iowa’s swimming season still in prime time, 15 state parks beaches have posted warnings due to high levels of fecal bacteria or toxins from algae. Saylorville Lake’s beaches are closed because of blue-green algae, …

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City eyes closer look at Des Moines River flooding

The threat of a rising Des Moines River has had a lot of study over the years, and it could get some more if the Des Moines City Council agrees to spend $1.3 million as …

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USDA announces $63 million for energy-efficiency projects

The U.S. Department of Agriculture will provide $63 million in loans and grants for 264 renewable energy and energy-efficiency projects nationwide through its Rural Energy for America Program (REAP), according to a release. A total …

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Partnership plans new water work group

The Greater Des Moines Partnership in the next few weeks plans to form a new work group on water issues.

 

CEO Jay Byers said the group is likely to develop draft legislation to propose …

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DuPont seed science facility opens in Johnston

DuPont has opened its Integrated Seed Science Center in Johnston. The facility is for developing and testing seed treatment formulations, applications and seed handling techniques. “The Johnston Integrated Seed Science Center ultimately helps us make …

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CF Industries to merge with OCI

CF Industries Holdings Inc. said today it has reached a deal to acquire the European and North American assets of Netherlands fertilizer maker OCI NV in an all-stock deal valued at $8 billion, MarketWatch reported. The deal …

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Gulf of Mexico ‘dead zone’ bigger than expected

The annual summertime dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico off Louisiana and Texas was bigger than expected, scientists reported this week.

 

That means efforts to cut the flow of nitrogen and phosphorus — …

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EPA raises bar on Iowa carbon cuts; wind expected to help

The Obama administration’s final carbon-emissions rule calls for Iowa to cut emissions a bit more than previous versions, but many say the state shouldn’t have too much trouble. That’s because the major utilities already have …

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Movie features ‘talking’ bonobo, scientist with D.M. ties

A new movie, to be shown at a Des Moines fundraiser Aug. 27, takes the real-life work of bonobo conservationist Claudine Andre and adds fictional touches, including talking bonobos. Andre, who visited the bonobo-housing Great …