Houses on Sandy Slopes: How Trees Help Stabilize Slopes on coastal homes

Building homes on slopes offerscomes with challenges—especially when those slopes are composed of sand. In coastal communities in Washington, where sandy hills and dunes are common, erosion and slope instability are significant concerns for homeowners. Trees, however, provide a natural solution to stabilizing sandy slopes, offering both practical and ecological benefits. Challenges of Building on Sandy Slopes Sandy slopes are inherently less stable than other soil types due to their granular structure. Unlike clay or loam, sand particles have minimal cohesion, making them prone to erosion and sliding, especially when exposed to water or added weight from structures. Houses built … Continue reading Houses on Sandy Slopes: How Trees Help Stabilize Slopes on coastal homes

The Woman Who Fed Raccoons in Poulsbo, Washington: A Lesson in Wildlife Coexistence

In Poulsbo, Washington, a quaint town known for its Scandinavian heritage and serene natural surroundings, an unusual story unfolded involving one woman and a growing population of raccoons. For 35 years, this local resident regularly fed raccoons near her home, … Continue reading The Woman Who Fed Raccoons in Poulsbo, Washington: A Lesson in Wildlife Coexistence

How Tree Canopy Initiatives and Government Policies Have Evolved Since the 1960s to protect our environment.

Since the 1960s, government policies on environmental protection have transformed, with tree canopy initiatives at the forefront of efforts to combat climate change, improve urban livability, and enhance public health. Beyond their aesthetic and ecological value, tree canopies have become … Continue reading How Tree Canopy Initiatives and Government Policies Have Evolved Since the 1960s to protect our environment.

Surfside Members Approve Motion to Increase Tree Heights: Will the Board Honor Their Vote?

Three motions passed regarding trees and the environment. Surfside HOA members recently voted to approve a motion to increase tree height limits in areas with 16 and 20 feet to 24 feet. The motion, carefully vetted for legal compliance, addressies … Continue reading Surfside Members Approve Motion to Increase Tree Heights: Will the Board Honor Their Vote?

Tsunami and Earthquake Warning Centers links. A 7.0 California quake

On December 5, 2024, a powerful 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck near Ferndale in Humboldt County, California, shaking the region and being felt as far as Southern Oregon. Centered near the seismically active Mendocino Triple Junction, the earthquake disrupted power for … Continue reading Tsunami and Earthquake Warning Centers links. A 7.0 California quake

Candace Carteen and Triskele: A Story of Resilience and Love for Nature

In the tranquil yet embattled community of Surfside, Washington, two symbols of resilience stand out—a three-legged deer named Triskele and a passionate advocate for the environment, Candace Carteen. Candace, a celebrated contributor to the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, … Continue reading Candace Carteen and Triskele: A Story of Resilience and Love for Nature