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Friday, October 20, 2006

Teaching about West Nile Virus

With the recent discovery of seven local crows, dead from West Nile virus, now is an excellent time to bring the study of animal-borne diseases into the classroom.

West Nile Virus Hits Washington State
Health officials say West Nile found in seven more dead crows
10/14/06 Seattle Times
Seven dead crows from Seattle, Kent, Everett and elsewhere in Washington were infected with the West Nile virus, health officials said Friday. The discoveries are a good indication that the mosquito-borne virus finally has established itself in the state --- just as mosquito season is winding down.

Local West Nile Virus Information
Seattle & King County Public Health


CDC's Info on West Nile Virus

The Buzz-z-z on West Nile Virus (for kids)
This CDC article is geared toward kids.

What's West Nile Virus (for kids)
English/Spanish article geared toward kids from KidsHealth.

Bye Bye Birdie (for kids)
An excellent series of illustrated article geared toward kids. From the Why Files.


Wednesday, October 11, 2006

RainCatchers System in the News

Seattle RainCatchers

Some of you may have already been following the wonderful series in the Seattle-PI this week. The series, "The Sound of Broken Promises," is about failures and successes to protect the health of Puget Sound. If you haven't seen the series, the first three parts are available online, and more will appear as the week continues.

One of today's stories features stormwater management and rain harvesting systems around the Puget Sound. The article features the rain garden and cistern system in our Ballard yard that were installed as part of a RainCatchers pilot project with Seattle Public Utilities. You might enjoy taking a peek at the article and learning about other systems being used around the city.

You can check out the article here:
Low-impact methods have high impact on ecosystems:
Rain barrels, green roofs play a key role in saving orcas



The photos show the progression of our rain garden. First, you'll see the weedy patch of sod being removed by employees of the Seattle Conservation Corps.


The next photo shows the installation of the rain garden, which is a 4' deep hole backfilled with crushed rock. Then layers are formed with landscape fabric, compost and mulch. An underground drainage pipe diverts rainwater from our downspouts into the rain garden.

The last photo shows the rain garden last year, when the native plants were first installed. You should see how they have grown!



Tuesday, October 03, 2006

Fall for Salmon 2006


Fall for Salmon
September to November 2006

Visit King County's Department of Natural Resources and Parks' website for salmon watching information, volunteer opportunities, and tips on living a salmon friendly lifestyle.

http://dnr.metrokc.gov/wlr/pi/fall4salmon/