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

Blaine Gunkel: Transforming Trees into Masterpieces and Giving Back to the Community

Blaine Gunkel in retirement  has found a remarkable second act as a chainsaw artist, turning dead trees into stunning sculptures that bring joy to communities across the Pacific Northwest. Since moving to Ocean Park, Washington, four years ago, Blaine has … Continue reading Blaine Gunkel: Transforming Trees into Masterpieces and Giving Back to the Community

Navigating Holiday Blues: Understanding Depression and Resources in Pacific County

The holiday season, often portrayed as a time of joy and togetherness, can paradoxically lead to feelings of sadness, loneliness, and depression for many individuals. The “holiday blues” can be triggered by a variety of factors, including financial stress, grief … Continue reading Navigating Holiday Blues: Understanding Depression and Resources in Pacific County

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

The Spirit of Christmas in Pacific County: Gratitude, Service, and Selfless Giving

In Pacific County, Washington, encompassing communities like Long Beach, Ilwaco, South Bend, Raymond, ocean Park and others, Christmas is a season to reflect on the values of kindness, gratitude, and giving back. While the holidays bring joy and celebration, they … Continue reading The Spirit of Christmas in Pacific County: Gratitude, Service, and Selfless Giving

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.