The term atmospheric river sounds poetic, but it was chosen for a very practical reason. Scientists studying global weather patterns discovered that most of the planet’s water vapor does not move evenly through the atmosphere. Instead, it travels in long, … Continue reading Why They’re Called Atmospheric Rivers—and Why They’ve Become So Destructive
Instead of a Christmas tree that’s thrown away in January, imagine giving a living Christmas tree that becomes working infrastructure—one that protects your home, your community, local waterways, and future generations. A single $50 live tree planted each year for … Continue reading The best gift you can give this season isn’t under the tree—it is the tree
A heartfelt thank-you to every Surfside resident who took the time to vote in this independent community poll. Your participation shows how deeply our community cares about transparency, health, safety, and the future of our tree canopy and waterways. This … Continue reading Surfside Independent voting
Real estate developers are increasingly discovering that one of the most powerful drivers of return on investment isn’t granite countertops or smart-home features — it’s trees. From boosting home values to lowering operating costs and shaping desirable communities, strategic landscaping … Continue reading How Developers Use Trees to Boost Neighborhood Appeal—and Profits
Recent national studies have placed Portland, Oregon and Seattle, Washington at the very top of the list of thirty five cities comparing America’s cleanest cities — a recognition that reflects decades of environmental commitment, strong public policy, and forward-thinking urban … Continue reading Portland and Seattle Named America’s Cleanest Cities — A Triumph of Urban Forestry and Civic Stewardship
In Pacific County, the policies that enforce tree height restrictions through topping are not protecting our homes from fire—they are making the danger worse. Topping trees, a practice where the upper portion of a tree is cut back to enforce … Continue reading Topping Trees: Creating Fire Hazards in Pacific County
In Surfside, WA, the true strength of the community lives in its mothers and grandmothers. These women—caregivers, teachers, nurses, leaders—are the soul of our neighborhoods. Since living in Surfside, I have learned valuable lessons from their lifetime of wisdom. They … Continue reading A Tribute to the Mothers and Grandmothers of Surfside, WA — Stories of love and compassion
Microplastics, small plastic particles measuring less than five millimeters in size, have emerged as one of the most urgent environmental threats of the 21st century. These minuscule pollutants, often resulting from the breakdown of larger plastic waste or originating from … Continue reading The Canary in the Mine: Microplastics in the Air and Lungs of Birds, a Wake-up Call for All
There is no greater act of love for our children and future generations than planting a tree today. Trees are more than majestic giants of the natural world—they are lifelines, guardians, and givers. They provide the air we breathe, filter the pollutants we create, and protect us from the elements. In planting a tree, we plant hope, resilience, and a legacy of life for generations yet to come. “We must protect the forests for our children, grandchildren, and children yet to be born. We must protect the forests for those who can’t speak for themselves, such as the birds, animals, … Continue reading A Legacy Rooted in Love: Planting Trees for Future Generations
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
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