Ventura, California — Santa Ana winds pushed a wildfire from rural hills into parts of the Southern California city of Ventura overnight with a violent speed, destroying several buildings and forcing thousands of people to evacuate.
By Tuesday morning, in 13 hours, the fire had burned nearly 45,000 acres, and some homes were ablaze in the northern part of Ventura — a city of more than 100,000 people along the Pacific coast.
The fire forced sheriff’s deputies to warn residents to evacuate at night. About 150 buildings had been destroyed by Tuesday morning.
Firefighters try to put out a blaze which destroys homes early Tuesday in Ventura.
At least 10 homes and numerous palm trees were burning in one neighborhood, sending thick smoke and dangerous embers into the air.
What Has Happened So Far with This California Wildfire?
- The brush fire, called the Thomas Fire, was first reported at Steckel Park, just north of Santa Paula. Authorities received this report at around 6:30 p.m. local time, according to the Ventura County Fire Department.
- About 27,000 people were under mandatory evacuation in Ventura County as fire officials warned the powerful winds could push flames further into the city of Ventura.
- “The fire is still out of control and structures are threatened throughout the fire area,” the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office said on a local emergency preparedness website. “Due to the intensity of the fire, crews are having trouble making access, but there are multiple reports of structures on fire.”
- A dead animal was found at a car crash site near the evacuation zone Monday night, Ventura officials said. Initially, authorities reported that a person had died there, but they later clarified that no human body had been found.
Neighborhoods are Without Power
The fire also burned down power lines, at one point leaving more than 260,000 homes and businesses without power. Businesses and homes in Ventura County and neighboring Santa Barbara County dealt with this problem.
By early Tuesday, power was back for all but 20,000 customers. However, more outages are possible because flames were burning along power transmission paths.
As the fire spread, the nearby hills glowed a fiery orange. Residents in Santa Paula threw a few of their belongings into cars to evacuate, according to a video footage.
Heavy winds and darkness are the reason that authorities are struggling. They couldn’t immediately use air tankers and helicopters to help battle the wildfire.
“We’ll have them as soon as the light is out, and they can safely fly,” Ventura County Fire chief Mark Lorenzen said.
They survived the California fires. Now, the crisis is finding housing
About 1,000 firefighters are battling the blaze or heading to the area to help Tuesday morning.
Ventura County fire engineer Richard Macklin estimated that one stretch of flames extended 5 to 6 miles Tuesday morning. He said he’d never seen a fire spread as fast at such a distance in his 30-year career.
Officials shut State Route 150, between Ojai and Santa Paula, due to the fires. All students at the Thomas Aquinas College, a private Catholic college in Santa Paula, evacuated Monday night, the school said on Twitter. The college and the Santa Paula and Ventura school districts announced their closures Tuesday.
The state opened two evacuation centers for residents who had to leave their homes and evacuate due to the California wildfire.
Hours into the disaster early Tuesday, California’s Office of Emergency Services secured a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency to fight the fire.


Although it’s lately become fashionable to market “green” causes, you might not know that a major fine jewelry company is one of the best examples of an ecologically aware brand. The management and employees of John Hardy take being environmentally conscious as seriously as they do their sterling silver and gold jewelry designs. But they don’t advertise the fact.
It’s all about authenticity, says Damien Dernoncourt, president. “When we at John Hardy speak about our marketing, the emphasis is on great design and handmade quality of our artisans and craftspeople. Yes, we are a green company and trying to be an even better one, but it’s not something we advertise.”
Although a small logo on John Hardy advertising refers to “sustainable luxury,” a concept that includes giving back when spending resources for business, the company’s efforts aren’t touted in advertising and marketing materials. “The fact is, being green is really part of our brand DNA,” says Dernoncourt, who points to other successful green friendly brands, such as Patagonia, which has been a model of authentic environmental activity.
Dernoncourt led a management buyout of John Hardy last June. John Hardy, the company’s founder, and his partner, his wife Cynthia, left to pursue their own philanthropic endeavors, many in Bali, their Indonesian island home where the studio and workshop are located. Dernoncourt says Hardy’s vision continues to inspire employees in the company’s offices in Bali, Hong Kong, and New York. Indeed, Dernoncourt says he hopes to triple John Hardy’s current $150 million in annual sales in just three years, “while staying true to the key concept of sustainable luxury.” Dernoncourt calls Hardy, “my mentor. It’s because of him and what the brand stands for that I joined the company.”
One of the company’s first initiatives involved planting bamboo, the long-lived, fast growing perennial grass that can grow to mammoth size. John Hardy, a seasoned environmentalist, initiated the planting of bamboo in Nusa Penida, an island near Bali where deforestation had ruined the tropical landscape.Bamboo also has a role in the making of John Hardy jewelry. The company’s workshop, Kapal Bamboo, which is situated amid rice fields, is made entirely of bamboo and alang-alang grass. No hardwood, which takes years to grow and is endangered in many tropical rainforests, was used. Designed by Malaysian architect Cheong Yew Kuan, the workshop cost only about $6,000.
The bamboo collection is carried through in the company’s sustainable advertising program, which is funded by a limited edition collection of sterling silver bamboo jewelry which is available on its web site, www.sustainableadvertising.com. Each piece of bamboo jewelry is inscribed inside with the number of bamboo seedlings that will be planted as a result of the sale of the jewelry. In 2008, the bamboo jewelry collection will be rolled out to about 20 doors.
The idea has been to plant the bamboo to “make up” as it were the amount of paper generated by John Hardy’s advertising. As of December 2007, the results of John Hardy’s sustainable advertising has been more than 17.5 acres of mixed bamboo species planted on Nusa Penida island. Such plantings can result in conserving soil, water, and wildlife that has been dwindling due to natural forests being cleared. Going forward, more seedlings will be planted with participating farmers having more water to keep the plants green during the dry season.


Fleas pose a hazard to your pet as well as to your home. You can begin to keep them way by keeping your pet well-groomed. This includes combing his or her fur regularly and drowning any fleas that you find in soapy water. Treating your pets with a flea control product, which your veterinarian can help you to select, is also a very important part of keeping your animals and your home free of fleas.
Vacuum regularly to pick up tiny flea eggs, and keep your pet's bedding area clean. Place eucalyptus leaves throughout your home and yard. Just a few leaves in each room and outside can give off enough of a smell to discourage fleas from entering the space. Furthermore, because the microscopic nematode worm eats the larvae of fleas, a spray of these organisms outside can significantly reduce the present flea population.


Drinking water or potable water tanks must be kept in good condition, be correctly installed and designed to ensure the water quality is maintained, and is fit for human consumption.
If you rely on tank fed water for your drinking water, then it should meet the following requirements:
- Correctly sized so stagnation does not occur, and fresh water is replenished frequently.
- Constructed of a WRAS approved material e.g. plastic (polyethylene) and have a close-fitting lid.
- Has a lid which excludes light and is tightly fitted and securely fastened to prevent birds, rodents and dust from getting into the tank.
- Has a lid vent and overflow with a screen to prevent dust, insects, birds and vermin getting into the tank.
- The tank must be insulated to keep temperature below 20 degrees.
- Inspected visually at least annually to make sure there has not been a build up of scale or sludge and the lid and screens are all securely in place.
- Cleaned and disinfected annually or sooner if microbiological monitoring indicates deterioration or if visual inspection shows sludge, scale or corrosion.
- Microbiological samples should be taken at intervals of not more than 6 months if there is a change in water quality, the tank is not adequately protected, it leaks or is corroding.
Dantek can offer advice to correctly identify potable water tanks and then monitor those tanks to ensure the water quality remains fit for human consumption. For a free consultation about your cold-water storage tanks please call 01454 417920 today.


Whilst travel is restricted during Scotland’s lockdown, we still need to consider the wider impact of different types of travel on the environment.
We should get back on public transport only when coronavirus travel restrictions ease. And there are a great many reasons why. First and foremost, more people using public transport decreases the amount of greenhouse gas emissions that enter the atmosphere, helping tackle climate change and getting Scotland closer to its target of net zero emissions.
Net zero means the amount of greenhouse gas emissions we put into the atmosphere and the amount we’re able to take out will add up to zero.
Find out more about current coronavirus travel rules and restrictions
Consider your transport choices and your need to travel on a daily basis. Try to leave the car at home for your journeys when you can, for example when traveling to work or school, and use public transport, or walk, wheel or cycle instead. Replacing car journeys with public transport can help reduce CO2 emissions by 42% if using the bus and 73% if using the train. It all helps with creating a cleaner, greener Scotland.
Replacing car journeys with public transport can help reduce CO2 emissions if using the bus
Take Action Starting Now
To achieve net zero by 2045, we must take action now. Start here to find ways that you can make changes in your life at home and on the go.


Where to recycle now
On August 23, 2018
A couple times a week, Missy VanWinkle drives 25 minutes to Indianapolis to drop off her recycling.
The choice was one she had to make after the Johnson County Recycling District closed all six of its recycling drop-off sites last month due to a significant increase in costs and illegal dumping.
VanWinkle is passionate about recycling, but she doesn't think she should have to drive to another county to do something that's good for the environment, she said.
Unfortunately, she does. So does every other Johnson County resident whose trash service provider doesn't offer recycling services, as well as those who would rather not pay for it.
Since closing the free recycling sites around the county last month, the county recycling district has received calls from residents asking what their options are. The short answer is: they don't know yet.
The recycling district is looking for a solution, but three weeks isn't enough time to come up with one, executive director Jessie Biggerman said.
"There is no quick fix to this problem, as things will get worse for the industry before it gets better," she said.
Biggerman was at a waste management conference this week in Nashville, Tenn., trying to find answers to problems recycling districts all over the country are facing.
The industry is changing. China, which was a major buyer of recyclables, has handed down several restrictions on what the country will and will not accept from the United States.
"China wants to become completely independent. So back in March, they decreased the percentage of contaminants allowed in the recycling that's imported. Now, they have basically banned import of all recyclables," said Terry Guerin, who serves on the board of the National Waste and Recycling Association and chairs the state board.
"That's really wreaking havoc on the market here in the United States. At first, the east and west coasts were impacted. But it's like a domino effect, and it's finally hitting the Midwest."
With fewer buyers, the value of recyclables has gone down, which has significantly increased the cost of collecting them.
Illegal dumping is another reason for the sudden change. Residents dumping trash in local recycling bins was the reason at least one site in Johnson County had to close.
"What people need to understand is that much of what they were disposing of wasn't recyclable, and education and understanding is going to be the key component in being able to bring sustainable recycling back to Johnson County," Biggerman said.
"This is not just a collection problem. Many people think if something goes to a bin, someone will figure out how to recycle it. That is not the case, and it just contaminates whatever good material may be in the bin. The chances are greater of all of that material ending up in the landfill."
Even though they collected more than 1,400 tons of recycling last year, it wasn't feasible or responsible to continue operating the sites, she said previously. In Johnson County, the cost to ship recycling would have more than doubled - averaging $174 per ton - had they signed a new contract.
For now, Biggerman said the recycling district is telling residents to contact their trash service provider to see if they are willing to add a subscription-based recycling route, especially in areas with a lot of homes.
But prices for curbside recycling are rising, too. Republic Services, which some communities in Johnson County use, recently raised its annual rate to $99 from $48.
Guerin, who is also the governmental affairs representative for Best Way Disposal, another major trash service provider in central Indiana, said on-the-ground management at the South Side Landfill, which services Johnson County, reported they are seeing an increase in curbside recycling subscriptions. The majority of requests received in the past month have come out of Johnson County, he said. They are not seeing an increase in garbage though.
Best Way serves landfills in Indiana, Kentucky and Michigan, and Guerin represents all of them. So far, Johnson County is the only county he is aware of that has done away with its free drop-off recycling service completely. But he certainly understands why they did it, he said.
"The true problem at work here is contamination," Guerin said. "I can tell you that individuals in your area ... let's just say we're going to have to do a much better job at educating them."
In fact, Johnson County's move is being talked about nationally, he said. He was recently at a board meeting in Washington D.C., when someone shared with him a news article about the county ending recycling services. The board included that article in a newsletter that was distributed to waste and recycling state associations around the country, he said.
Johnson County may have been the first to make this move, but it certainly won't be the last, he said.
"We'll work our way through this, but it's going to take several years probably," Guerin said.
VanWinkle, a Franklin resident, knows that Indianapolis taxpayers are funding her recycling habit, since the drop-off site she is taking her items to is in Marion County. But she doesn't know what else to do.
Her trash service provider, D&L Trash Removal, a small, locally-owned company based in Trafalgar, does not offer recycling services, she said.
She called the mayor's office. She reached out to county commissioners. She contacted other area trash service providers and the local landfill transfer site. But she still doesn't have an acceptable answer, she said.
A booth operator at Franklin's Transfer Station, which feeds into the South Side Landfill in Indianapolis, said he has received several calls about it in the past couple of weeks.
"I don't know what to tell them. The only recycling facilities I know of are up in Indianapolis," said Ralph Skaggs, scale master.
And that must be what they're doing, he said, because the transfer site has not received an increase in trash. They are still averaging about 300 tons a day.
VanWinkle, who spent the past couple of weeks playing phone tag, eventually ended up right back where she started: the Johnson County Recycling District. They told her they are considering opening a manned site, but were vague about when that might happen or where it might be located.
VanWinkle lives about a mile west of the Shelbyville line in Franklin. Up until July 31, she would drive 10 minutes to the site in downtown Franklin to drop off her recycling, she said.
"It's frustrating. I've been recycling forever. For three years, I drove it into town," she said.
She refuses to stop, she said. So for now, she will continue to haul several bins of recycling to a parking lot in Franklin Township - near the intersection of Franklin and Southport roads - a couple times a week. It is the closest site she could find, she said.


Folha Imperial Eau de Cologne and Bar Soaps Kit
The Folha Imperial collection, in a limited edition, celebrates all the richness of the Atlantic Forest and invites us to reconnect with nature and raise awareness of its preservation. Together with Fundação SOS Mata Atlântica, Granado embraces and supports the Forests of the Future project, dedicated to the preservation and reforestation of the largest Brazilian biome, by donating part of the profit from product sales to this project.
The bar soap for the body and hands is formulated with vegetable glycerin, leaving an intense scent, gently cleansing and leaving the skin fragrant for longer. And all of Granado's fragrances are made with extra neutral alcohol, which results in a high degree of purity and does not interfere with the result of the fragrance. In addition, the perfume undergoes a maceration process, a practice carried out by a select group of perfumeries in the world, which ensures greater harmonization and maturation of the fragrance's olfactory notes.
The illustration, handmade in gouache, conveys the exuberance of the forest, highlighting the foliage and some of the animals native to the Atlantic Forest, such as the capuchin monkey, the sloth, the anteater and the ocelot. No product is tested on animals.
Contents: 1 eau de cologne and 1 bar soap 150g.
About the Forests of the Future project
An initiative of the SOS Mata Atlântica foundation, the project aims at reforestation with native species and the recovery of river basins and sub-basins. The environmental restoration project, which has the support of civil society, the private sector, landowners and public authorities, brings together 40 million seedlings planted in 9 states and 550 municipalities and 23,000 hectares restored.


The highest court in the Netherlands ruled Friday that the nation’s government must cut greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by the end of next year. The landmark case marks the first time a country has been held responsible by its courts to take action against climate change.
“The lives, well-being and living circumstances of many people around the world, including in the Netherlands, are being threatened” by climate change, Presiding Judge Kees Streefkerk, said in the decision. “Those consequences are happening already.”
The government was attempting to appeal earlier rulings that it must cut emissions by at least 25% by the end of 2020 from 1990 levels. The Supreme Court upheld the rulings that humans have a fundamental right to be protected from the potentially catastrophic effects of climate change by their government, because “there is a serious risk that a dangerous climate change will occur that threatens the lives and well-being of many in the Netherlands.”


The artwork “Annihilation” by Eugénie Bérubé depicts the head of a fish placed on a fork, held by a hand. In the fish’s eye, one can perceive a subtle scene of a fisherman in a canoe. This artwork highlights the destructive impact of human activity on wildlife and flora.
Analysis of the artwork: The title “Annihilation” is well chosen as it evokes the destruction and disappearance of nature caused by humans. The artwork denounces the detrimental consequences of human activity on the environment, such as overfishing and ocean pollution.
This artwork holds particular significance in Eugénie Bérubé’s artistic journey as it demonstrates her mastery of drawing and coloring techniques. Although most of her works are contemporary and depart from realism, it does not imply an inability to create art. On the contrary, Eugénie Bérubé proves in this artwork her ability to express her artistic vision in an original and powerful way.
By using graphite and Prismacolor on Bristol paper, Eugénie Bérubé creates a striking contrast between the delicacy of the fish and the harshness of the fork, thereby highlighting the contradiction between the beauty of nature and how it is often exploited and destroyed by humans.
The fish’s eye, where one can perceive a subtle scene of a fisherman in a canoe, reinforces the artwork’s message by showing that the impact of human activity on nature is visible even in the smallest details.
Beyond its ecological dimension, “Annihilation” is also a reflection on the complex relationship between humans and nature, and on humans’ responsibility towards their environment. The artwork encourages the viewer to become aware of their role in nature conservation and to question their actions and behaviors towards the environment.
In conclusion, “Annihilation” by Eugénie Bérubé is a powerful and impactful artwork that denounces the destructive impact of human activity on nature. It showcases the artist’s talent and ability to express strong messages through her art.


Mars Panorama - Curiosity rover: Martian solar day 2082
High resolution 360° panorama https://goo.gl/K1N2LD 🔎
Image credit: NASA/JPL-Caltech/MSSS/Andrew Bodrov
This panorama combines 83 exposures taken by the rover's Mars Hand Lens Imager (MAHLI) during the Sol 2082 of Curiosity's work on Mars (June 15, 2018)
A Martian dust storm has reduced sunlight and visibility at the rover's location in Gale Crater.
You can find all interactive panoramas of Mars by NASA's Curiosity Rover here: http://www.360cities.net/sets/curiosity-mars


In today’s fast-paced world, where technology continually evolves, it’s no surprise that even the way we heat our homes has undergone a transformation. Enter EcoHeat, a groundbreaking heater device designed to provide warmth, comfort, and energy efficiency like never before. In this article, we will delve deep into the Heat, exploring its features, benefits, and how it contributes to a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
What Is EcoHeat?
It is a heater device that stands at the forefront of energy-efficient heating solutions. It’s designed to provide warmth and comfort while minimizing energy consumption and environmental impact. This cutting-edge device is a game-changer in the world of heating technology.
EcoHeat utilizes advanced heating elements and smart technology to efficiently generate and distribute heat. Its compact and sleek design makes it suitable for various settings, from homes to offices. But what sets Heat apart is its commitment to eco-friendliness.
How Does EcoHeat Work?
EcoHeat operates on a simple yet ingenious principle. It combines a ceramic heating element with a powerful fan to evenly distribute warm air throughout the space. Here’s how it works:
- Heating Element: The heart of Heater is its ceramic heating element. When activated, it rapidly heats up, producing a consistent source of warmth.
- Fan System: The built-in fan disperses the heated air efficiently, ensuring that every corner of the room receives an even and comfortable temperature.
- Temperature Control: EcoHeat comes with user-friendly temperature controls, allowing you to adjust the warmth according to your preferences. It maintains a consistent temperature, eliminating the need for constant adjustments.
- Safety Features: Safety is a priority with EcoHeat. It includes overheat protection and a tip-over switch, ensuring worry-free operation.
Key Features of Ecoheat
EcoHeat boasts a range of features that make it a standout choice for heating needs:
- Energy Efficiency: It’s innovative design minimizes energy consumption, reducing your heating bills and carbon footprint.
- Portability: Its compact size and lightweight construction make it easy to move from room to room.
- Silent Operation: You’ll hardly notice it is running, thanks to its whisper-quiet fan.
- Oscillation: The device can oscillate to distribute heat evenly in all directions.
- Timer Function: Set the timer to have Heat turn off automatically, adding convenience and energy savings.
- Digital Display: The digital display provides real-time temperature and settings information.
Benefits of Ecoheat
Investing in EcoHeat offers a plethora of benefits:
- Cost Savings: By consuming less energy, Heat significantly reduces your heating costs, making it an economical choice.
- Environmental Friendliness: The device’s low energy consumption contributes to a greener planet by reducing your carbon footprint.
- Quick Heating: EcoHeat heats up rapidly, so you can enjoy a warm and cozy space in no time.
- Customized Comfort: With adjustable temperature settings, you can create the perfect atmosphere for your needs.
- Safety: It’s safety features ensure a secure heating experience, giving you peace of mind.
- Versatility: Whether in your living room, bedroom, or office, EcoHeat adapts to any space.
Q: Can I use EcoHeat for large rooms?
A: Yes, It is effective in heating large spaces, thanks to its oscillation feature and powerful heating element.
Q: Is It safe to use around children and pets?
A: Absolutely, It is designed with safety in mind. It includes features like tip-over protection and overheat protection, making it safe for families with children and pets.
Q: Does EcoHeat come with a warranty?
A: Yes, It’s typically comes with a manufacturer’s warranty, providing added peace of mind to your purchase.
Q: How does EcoHeat compare to traditional heaters in terms of energy efficiency?
A: It is significantly more energy-efficient than traditional heaters, making it a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice.
Q: Is It easy to clean and maintain?
A: Yes, It is designed for easy cleaning and maintenance, ensuring its longevity and performance.
In conclusion, It is a heater device that combines cutting-edge technology with energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. It’s more than just a heater; it’s a solution for your heating needs that promises cost savings, comfort, and peace of mind.
Experience the future of heating with EcoHeat, and join the ranks of satisfied users who have embraced this innovative device. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to upgrade your heating experience while contributing to a greener world.


Solar covers are one of the smartest investments a pool owner can make. That’s because for the (very affordable) price of what’s essentially a really big piece of bubble wrap, a pool can be kept both warm and debris-free all summer long.
Solar covers work by simply floating on the surface of the pool and transferring the sun’s rays into the water, allowing the pool to be mildly heated with no effect on your electric bill. At night, the solar cover traps whatever heat has built up during the day in the water. It does all this while keeping leaves or any other debris out.
Because solar covers are smaller and lighter than full wintertime covers, they are easy to put on and take off every day during the swimming season. It’s very important, however, to properly care for the solar cover. Simply pulling it off and throwing it in the shed every day can damage the cover and defeat its purpose. Here are a few tips that will extend the life of your solar cover and help keep your pool in tip-top shape.
1. Use a container
You should have a separate container for your solar cover, one that you keep it in each day. Too many pool owners
toss their cover aside or put it somewhere that’s out of the way but doesn’t protect the cover. Debris, insects, and damage are a threat on every lawn and in every shed, so do yourself a favor and use a large, clean rubber or plastic container. This way, there’s no chance of any dirt, debris or living things adhering to the cover and ending up in your pool. There’s also no chance of the cover getting snagged, stepped on, or otherwise damaged. In addition, make sure not to keep your solar cover together with pool chemicals such as chlorine. These chemicals can damage the cover and should be stored separately.
2. Keep it clean
There’s no need to do it daily, but every once in a while during the season, hose off the cover. Obviously, when any visible dirt or debris finds its way onto the cover, it should be removed. As the season wears on, there will be some inevitable build up. Roll and fold it neatly. It’s tempting just to jam the cover into its container (you do have a container, right?) and get right to the cannonball competition, but a few short minutes spent neatly rolling/folding the cover will extend its life and effectiveness. Roll or fold the cover neatly but loosely, so as not to pop any of the bubbles, and to lessen the chances of its getting snagged or damaged.
3. Store it properly
When the pool season ends
, take the time to put it away for the winter carefully. Lay the cover out and hose it down thoroughly. Do not use any chemical cleaners; water alone will do. Make sure that before you put it away it is completely dry. You can leave it out to dry, but ideally a leaf blower can be used to dry the cover quickly before there’s any chance of new debris finding its way onto it. Fold it up neatly (but loosely) and place it into a container with a secure lid. By following these simple steps, your solar cover will heat and protect your pool for years to come.


Cadder Church: Eco Congregation
We are an Eco congregation and seek to care for God's Creation. As Christians we believe that the world around us was created by God and that we are here to care for it to ensure that it is here to support future generations.
We do this through Eco related worship, e.g. Creation Time Services, the care and maintenance of the church grounds,
recycling, by making our buildings more efficient and so reducing our carbon footprint,
by supporting Fair Trade
by building partnerships with others, including Meadowburn Primary School,
and supporting the Climate Change Lobby.
In December Eco-Congregation Scotland is taking the baton promoting climate change justice to Paris, where the Conference of the Parties of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is taking place.


The Behavioural Economics Aiding Sustainable Transition (BEAST) project is funded by the Irish Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and aims to generate essential information and analysis from the behavioural sciences to inform actions on climate change. The lead researcher is Dr Leonhard Lades. Feel free to get in touch if you are interested in this project (firstname.lastname@example.org)
On November 5th, Leonhard presented insights from the project in Cluj, Romania at the Cluj 2.1 | Innovation Fund - Urban Conversations Event. Some pictures are available at the Cluj Culture Center here.
We are happy to announce a workshop on Behavioural Science, Subjective Well-Being and the Environment funded by the project. It takes place on Friday November 16th, 12.00 pm to 3.00 pm in the UCD Geary [...]
Leonhard presented data on well-being and self-control in the Irish population at the Institute of Banking. We conducted this study with Amarach Research (https://amarach.com/) and asked almost 1000 Irish individuals to tell us about [...]


Scott Creek Trail in October – Riding Mountain National Park
Did you know that Fall is our favorite season up here in Riding Mountain National Park?
Here is our Family’s Top 10 Reasons why Fall is a great time to visit RMNP:
- The sounds and smells of crisp, golden autumn leaves crunching beneath our feet while hiking on one of Riding Mountain’s many beautiful trails.
- Listening to the flocks of Canadian Geese flying overhead in their V-shaped formations
- Watching the sunset over Clear Lake while sipping a warm, autumn beverage
- Spending a warm Fall day playing on an uncrowded beach
- Taking a day-trip out to the Bison enclosure and enjoying the colorful fall foliage along Lake Audy Road
- Watching the Northern Lights dance vividly above the waters of Clear Lake
- Hearing the bugling call of the big antlered elk as they call out to their prospective mates
- Roasting marshmallows around a warm, crackling campfire
- Breathing in the crisp air on an early morning autumn walk along the Lakeshore Trail to Deep Bay and back
- Watching the very busy beavers stockpile their lodges in preparation for a long winter while strolling along the Ominik Marsh Trail
Thunderbird Bungalows is open until the end of October with low, off-season rates.
Contact us to book your Fall adventure today!


As the string of record-breaking global temperatures continues unabated, June 2016 marks the 14th consecutive month of record-breaking heat.
According to two US agencies – Nasa and Noaa – June 2016 was 0.9C hotter than the average for the 20th century, and the hottest June in the record which goes back to 1880. It broke the previous record, set in 2015, by 0.02C.
The 14-month streak of record-breaking temperatures was the longest in the 137-year record. And it has been 40 years since the world saw a June that was below the 20th century average.
The string of record-breaking monthly temperatures began in April 2015, and was pushed along by a powerful El Niño, where a splurge of warm water spreads across the Pacific Ocean.
But the effects of El Niño have receded, and the effects of global warming are clear, said Nasa’s Gavin Schmidt.
“While the El Niño event in the tropical Pacific this winter gave a boost to global temperatures from October onwards, it is the underlying trend which is producing these record numbers,” he said.
Nasa’s Walt Meir said the global temperatures have been exacerbated by extreme temperatures over the Arctic. Warm temperatures there are pushing up the global average, as well a causing record-low amounts of sea ice.
“It has been a record year so far for global temperatures, but the record high temperatures in the Arctic over the past six months have been even more extreme,” Meier said. “This warmth as well as unusual weather patterns have led to the record-low sea ice extents so far this year.”


Small Portable Indoor Garden Plant PVC Greenhouse
Our exclusive small greenhouse was created plants just the right amounts of protection needed to grow safely & flourish. Not only is this indoor greenhouse ideal for experienced gardeners, but it’s also perfect for new gardeners looking to give their garden a new look.
Equipped with about 7 feet in length and 3 feet in width and height, the portable greenhouse accommodates a large number of plants with ease. Plus, this backyard greenhouse is perfect for seeding, vegging, or simply for protecting plants against intruders or the weather.
Best part of all, the transparent green cover provided ensures that the plants and flowers consistently get just the right amount of sunlight. Grow all of your plants and flowers with ease with our tear-resistant home greenhouse!
HEAVY DUTY - Simply put, the plant greenhouse was built to last. The tear-resistant and virtually unbreakable exterior ensures that the plants and flowers within the PVC greenhouse stay safe at all times.
PORTABLE - Although the bars are coated with a steel frame, the overall outdoor greenhouse is extremely light weight and easy to carry. In addition, walk in greenhouse can fit easily within a room in the home or in the backyard.
EASY ENTRY - With the three zipped wall doors on one side, this indoor greenhouse is basically a walk-in small greenhouse. Stroll right in and view all of the plants and flowers with ease. The zipped design also helps with air ventilation.
Dimensions: 180 x 90 x 90 cm (L x W x H)
Frame: Powder-coated tubular steel Green tear-resistant covering
Fabric: PVC: 100%
1x Portable Backyard Greenhouse
Domestic Shipping (USA): Your pvc greenhouse will be packaged and shipped within 3 days of ordering. Keep in mind our items are custom made and shipped from warehouses across the globe which means it may take them 7 to 22 business days to arrive after shipment (most of the time closer to 12).
International Shipping: The portable greenhouse will be packaged and shipped within 5 days of order. We do ship worldwide! Please be patient and note that delivery times will vary depending on your location. Majority of the countries will have the product delivered within 2 to 5 weeks!


What is the purpose of Vos Nippon’s activities ?
Vos Nippon is a certified NPO that began operating in March 2001. The ocean covers two-thirds of the Earth’s surface, and is in direct contact with the atmosphere: because of this, for example, it absorbs CO2 from the atmosphere; the heat of the oceans warms the atmosphere; and large quantities of rain clouds are created. Of course, the effects go the other way, too. The use of private commercial vessels to carry out long-term monitoring of the ocean surface, which is also the boundary between the ocean and the atmosphere, can contribute to a more accurate understanding of changes in the global environment, including climate change and changes in the water cycle. Gaining the cooperation of private vessels engaged in economic activities as voluntary observation vessels in order to collect accurate data over a long period of time, is a role well suited to an NPO. The activities of Vos Nippon do not directly resolve the challenges facing society. However, we are convinced that the understanding of basic oceanic data as a socially-owned asset will enable the construction of the foundations of an affluent society.
The progress of Vos Nippon so far
The principle behind the activities of Vos Nippon is to contribute to the understanding of changes in the ocean environment by providing society with basic oceanic data that anyone can use freely; and on the basis of this principle, Vos Nippon has installed equipment to measure water temperature and salinity on a freighter sailing in Asian waters between Japan and the Gulf of Thailand from August 2001 to August 2014, and on a coal carrier sailing in the North and South Pacific between Japan and Australia from July 2002 to February 2017, and has published on the web the data gathered at one-minute intervals while sailing on the open sea, on the principle that its use should be free of charge and unlimited. From September 2017, Vos Nippon began to gather and publish data on water temperature, salinity and pH using a RoRo ship sailing the coastal waters between Tokyo and Hokkaido.
Compared to the land, the infrastructure for observations at sea is very limited; and the creation of a mechanism for the efficient gathering of oceanic data with the cooperation of those engaged in maritime transportation brings great benefits to society as a whole. We believe that Vos Nippon plays an important role in making this mechanism work, and we will continue to do so in the future.
What kind of data does Vos Nippon collect ?
Salinity and water temperature are the basic physical quantities of the ocean. Water temperature and salinity are measured by all our vessels operating in the Asian sea area, in the sea area between Japan and Australia, and in the coastal area between Tokyo and Hokkaido. It is well known that since seawater has the property to store heat, the climate of land areas facing the sea is milder than that of inland areas. Due to the wind, differences in the density of the seawater determined by temperature and salinity, and the rotation of the Earth, seawater is moved and mixed and transports the heat energy and substances such as CO2 that are dissolved in it.
From June 2002 to November 2005, the vessel in the Asian seas measured florescence intensity. Florescence intensity is an indicator of the amount of phytoplankton present. Phytoplankton take in carbon dioxide through photosynthesis and produce organic matter, and some of the organic matter produced eventually sinks to the ocean floor thus transporting carbon from the ocean surface layer to deeper areas. It can be said that the amount of phytoplankton present, taking chlorophyll-a as an indicator, is the basis of information on the carbon cycle in the ocean.
From November 2018, the vessel sailing the coastal waters between Tokyo and Hokkaido have been measuring pH. As concentrations of CO2 in the atmosphere rise and increasing amounts are absorbed by the oceans, the seawater becomes more acidic. The acidification of seawater is of particular concern with regard to the impact on organisms that have calcium carbonate shells, and pH data provides information that is useful in understanding complex marine ecosystems.
Profile of VOS Nippon
|Profile of VOS Nippon
||VOS Nippon is a Not-for-profit organization registered and verified under the Japanese law.
||On March 13, 2001
On April 16, 2008 Obtained status for the income tax deduction for donors (in Japan).
||M's Tower 1001, 18-7, Sakaecho 1-chome, Odawara,
Kanagawa, 250-0011 Japan
Tel: +81 465 21 6105 Facs: +81 465 21 6109
(Click here for the map)
||(1) Full Members
To include persons who support the objectives of this organization, possess specialized skills, experience, and/or knowledge, and can actively participate in its activities. This class of membership will have full voting powers.
(2) Supporting Members
To include both individuals and organizations which support our objectives. They will be asked to pay membership dues, as separately provided, but will not be eligible to vote at general meetings.
|5. Board members and auditor
||T. Kaneko, Board member
N. Nakajima, Board member, Chairperson
Y. Tanaka, Board member
Y. Uemura, Board member
Y. Tejima, Auditor
||One fulltime and 1 non-fullltime staff
|7. Objectives and Programme
||In order to benefit all persons interested in the marine environment and bio-production, VOS Nippon thus collects and analyzes the observation data gathered by private voluntary vessels for widespread dissemination, both in Japan and abroad. This organization was set up to shed light on the physical environment on the earth's surface as well as the production mechanism for living marine resources, while promoting interest in and understanding of the oceanic environment among the general public. Our activities cover the following areas:
(1) Acquisition, validation, analysis, and dissemination of observation data on the surface layer of the world's oceans.
(2) Development of continuous, automated observation equipment for ship-borne use.
(3) Recruitment of voluntary observing ships for participation in the observation program.
(4) Public awareness activity to disseminate information relating to the marine environment.
(5) Other activities as necessary to the attainment of the above objectives.
|8. Operational plans for
Apr. 2019/Mar. 2020
|(1) Collecting and publicly releasing data
(2) Maintaining sensors
(3) Ocean monitoring
The operation of VOS Nippon is supported by grant and contributions from both individuals and organizations acknowledging our mission, as well as assistance from specialists in variety of fields. The operating budget for the fiscal year 2019 is about Yen 2.37 million.


NUCLEAR & ENVIRONMENTAL INDUSTRY PROJECTS
We’ve worked in the nuclear and environmental sectors for over 15 years particularly focussing in the area of nuclear waste disposal and the environmental monitoring linked to this work. The company’s strong background in Earth Sciences has been an important factor in our participation in these large-scale investigations and enables us to bridge the knowledge gap from scientific and engineering disciplines to high end IT development and the design of powerful database driven systems which have contributed to the success of these projects.
Rock Characterisation Facility - Long-term Groundwater Monitoring System
NIREX* - Sellafield - Cumbria
The NIREX Rock Characterisation Facility (RCF) study began in 1992 at Longlands Farm, close to the nuclear facility at Sellafield, Cumbria. Among the aims of the project was the desire to study a range of properties present in the geosphere at that location and assess these with a view to the suitability of the site for deep radioactive waste storage.
As part of the study a large network of deep boreholes was developed into 23 of which were installed arrays of groundwater pressure monitoring probes providing 482 measurement ports in total. Data from these monitoring arrays was collected and stored in an Oracle/UNIX Long-term Groundwater Monitoring System (LTMS). The system was required to store large datasets, perform data manipulation and output data for use in geosphere modelling; at its peak the database contained over 76 million readings. In addition to the groundwater measurements the system held meteorological data from regional weather stations, flow data from watercourses and geological data derived during the investigation.
Planning permission to construct the RCF was refused by the Local Council and in 1997 the appeal to overturn the decision was rejected following a Public Enquiry. However, the LTMS continued to be operated and from early 1998 the management and administration of the LTMS was provided by Brooks Gamble Ltd, until it’s termination in 1999. Post closure reporting extended the project into 2000.
*NIREX is now integrated into the Nuclear Decommissioning Agency, NDA
Dounreay Groundwater Monitoring System – Data Management & Visualisation
Dounreay Site Restoration Limited - Dounreay - Caithness
Dounreay Site Restoration Limited (DSRL) is the site licence company responsible for the closure programme at Britain's former centre of fast reactor research and development. DSRL has held the site licence since April 1, 2008. Prior to this date the site was managed by the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA).
As part of the site restoration works, DSRL must deal with the presence of Intermediate Level Waste (ILW) contained inside a shaft some 5m diameter and 65m deep, excavated within rock adjacent to the shore. The project to retrieve this material is well underway, however, prior to commencement of the works a groundwater monitoring system (GMS) was installed to measure and record groundwater pressures in and around the shaft area. Data from the GMS was used to model hydrogeological conditions and advise the design of shaft isolation works.
Having experience of a similar environmental monitoring system as part of the NIREX RCF project, Brooks Gamble Ltd were engaged to design and build the GMS at the Dounreay site. The system was required to store and manipulate time-series pressure data from an array of underground monitoring probes as well as atmospheric, tidal and shaft water level data and comprised Oracle/UNIX with PV-Wave data visualisation software. Tasks included data conversion, storage, quality assessment and graphical output of the data suite, and continues to-date with tidal, shaft water level and post isolation works groundwater monitoring boreholes .


I have actually done a couple reviews or Ozeri now. They are a great company with great products. This time I got a small green earth frying pan to review.
About this pan: Utilizing GREBLON -- an ultra-safe ceramic coating from Germany, the Green Earth Pan by Ozeri is one of the world's first frying pans to achieve non-stick perfection while remaining absolutely free of PTFE, PFOA and other harmful chemicals.
Why is this pan better for you? Conventional cookware and other ceramic cookware brands achieve their non-stick performance through a coating of PTFE (PolyTetraFluoroEthylene), a synthetic substance that has waxy properties. At very high temperatures, PTFE begins to decompose and release fumes which are documented to be lethal to birds and small pets, and which can be harmful to humans. In addition, traditional pans incorporating PTFE are often manufactured with the aid of PFOA (PerFluoroOctanoic Acid), which the EPA has classified as a persistent pollutant of the environment'.
With the Green Earth Pan's GREBLON ceramic from Germany, even under high temperatures, no harmful toxic fumes are ever released into the environment. This is because the Green Earth Pan utilizes a 100% ceramic coating inspired by nature - not a laboratory.
With better non-stick properties, the Green Earth Pan allows you to saute, fry, bake, boil and braise with as little as half the amount of oil normally used, and cleaning is a breeze. The Green Earth Pan by Ozeri is made of the highest quality die-cast aluminum that allows for even cooking and fantastic browning without hot spots. It boasts a magnetized bottom for rapid heat transfer on induction stoves, and a heat resistant silicone coated handle. This version of the Green Earth Pan features a textured ceramic cooking surface. The elevations of the textured cooking surface create air pockets which distribute heat underneath food to enhance cooking performance.
What we thought; I love this pan. It's my go to pan for a lot of things now. My favorite thing to cook in it is a piece of fish or chicken breast. NOTHING sticks. You can cook eggs, veggies, meat, everything. This is my favorite pan. I need one in every size. I love the textured bottom of the pan. Everything cooks so evenly and perfectly. I highly recommend this pan. I will be buying more!
You can find Ozeri on Facebook and Twitter as well!


Maui is located right in the middle of the inhabited part of the Hawaiian island chain, with five nearby islands in plain sight. Its location may be one of the reasons for its appeal. Maui, the middle child, is surrounded by ohana, family, and perhaps, for this reason more than any other residents say they feel protected and safe here. It is intangibles like this that make up “sense of place,” and the feelings engendered by this island seem to arise from subtleties and nuances like this.
It has been said that Maui is actually part of a larger geological formation called Maui Nui (Great Maui), which is comprised of the islands of Maui, Lanai, Molokai and Kahoolawe. If sea levels were to drop only 300 feet, say geologists, these four islands would stand joined together as Maui Nui. Today this ancient geopolitical entity is still conjoined, collectively known as “Maui County”.
Maui, with its 727.3 square miles, is the second largest island in the Hawaiian archipelago. After Oahu, Maui is also Hawaii’s second most visited island in the state, welcoming about 2 1/2 million people each year. Twice already it has been named “best island in the world” in the annual Conde Nast Traveler reader’s poll. Maui simply is “No Ka Oi,” The Best.
Within it’s relatively small bit of space are contained three cloud wreathed peaks more than a mile high, thousands of tumbling waterfalls and sparkling pools, remote valleys and rain forests with plants and indigenous creatures not seen anywhere else in the world, intensely brilliant rainbows that stack up two and three high sometimes, stark raw lava fields looking like a moonscape, 120 miles of shoreline and more than 80 sandy beaches (including two that are more than a mile long), and coral reefs and waves that go on for days. There’s a lot of nature and natural wonders packed into this little place.
In the east, one of those mountains, 10,023 foot high Haleakala, or “House of the Sun”, is a shield volcano with a crater so big and so deep that it can swallow up the island of Manhattan whole. Haleakala is a mountain range all by itself, and even makes its own weather.
The summit of the second shield volcano making up The Valley Isle is 5,788 foot high Puu Kukui, which is also the second rainiest peak in Hawaii with about 400 inches of rainfall a year. This volcano is twice as old as Haleakala and has weathered into the deeply carved and eroded mountain range known as the West Maui Mountains.
Between the two volcanoes is the valley-like isthmus formed by their lava flows. The last one was Haleakala’s 1790 eruption. The flat, fertile isthmus which link the two volcanoes give the island its nickname, “The Valley Isle.”


On the list of the world’s most romantic destinations, the Seychelles are about as close as you can get to the top. Located in the Indian Ocean, off the coast of East Africa, the cluster of 115 topical islands is a mix of populated ports and never-inhabited coralline islets. Exotic plants and wildlife, including indigenous Seychelles black parrots and towering palms make this destination a standout. Travelers visit the Seychelles for the culture of its capital city of Victoria, and the pristine beaches only reachable by private yacht. Clichéd or not, travelers often refer to the ‘Garden of Eden’, when speaking about their vacation in the Seychelles…once you have felt the sand between your toes here, beach holidays will never be the same again.
The Seychelles archipelago is a destination where white sandy beaches are as pure as the driven snow, where frothy turquoise waters harbor colorful coral reefs and bountiful marine life, where secret coves allow you to have your very own Robinson Crusoe moment, with only birds and tortoises for company. Mahé may be the biggest (and the busiest) of the islands, but it has a fair share of secluded bays. Together with its sisters Praslin and La Digue, it attracts the lion’s share of visitors.
More adventurous travelers, on the other hand, may prefer to take a flying boat to more remote islands, such as Fregate, or Bird Island, to enjoy secluded beaches all to themselves. These islands are especially popular with birdwatchers and nature lovers, due to their abundance of wildlife. The absence of people on many of the islands means that rare plant life has thrived at this Indian Ocean archipelago. Tropical life abounds below the waves as well – best viewed by scuba diving and snorkeling.
When it comes to ethical, eco-conscious tourism in the Indian Ocean, the Seychelles sets the standard. This is not a place where you find mega-resorts, or mass tourism, instead you’ll find an emphasis on local ventures focused on protecting the country’s remarkably diverse landscape and wildlife.
With a population of just 92,000, Seychelles is small in size but it’s a big player when it comes to wildlife conservation. As a matter of fact, Seychelles was the first nation to include conservation efforts and targets in its constitution. Today, almost 60 percent of its land mass is protected, the highest percentage of any country in the world. The country is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites: the easily accessible Vallée de Mai, one of the world’s last remaining stands of coco-de-mér palm trees, and the extremely isolated Aldabra Atoll on Seychelles’ farthest reaches, where more than 150,000 giant tortoises live in undisturbed peace.
The North Island of Seychelles was the recipient of the National Geographic World Legacy Award for Conserving the Natural World. National Geographic annually collaborates with the international tourism trade fair ITB Berlin to acknowledge five outstanding sustainable franchises within the ecotourism industry. The five World Legacy awards include Destination Leadership, Earth Changers, Engaging Communities, Sense of Place and Conserving the Natural World.
The North Island Resort’s fundamental philosophy involves prioritizing the natural ecosystem of the island while providing a sustainable getaway for tourists. The North Island was privately owned as a copra plantation until it was sold in the 1970’s. Invasive species introduced earlier in the century radiated throughout the island, disrupting endemic species until the island was purchased with the intent of establishing an eco-tourism resort in 1997. The Seychelles North Island resort aligned with the ‘Noah’s Ark’ project to ensure that the island would become a haven for native species once again. Scientists working for the ‘Noah’s Ark’ project facilitate the reintroduction of endemic species, while also observing temperature, migration, and the effects of climate change to gain a comprehensive understanding of the island’s ecology. As a result, North Island is once again supporting native species such as the Seychelles Sunbird and the Vulnerable Seychelles White-eye.
It’s not all about nature, though. The Seychelles are a veritable melting pot of cultures; its inhabitants descend from African, Asian, and European immigrants, who have all brought their customs and traditions with them to the islands. This heady mix is particularly pleasing on the palate, thanks to the archipelagos’ fabulous fusion food. Creole cuisine features the subtleties and nuances of French cooking, the exoticism of Indian dishes, and the piquant flavors of the Orient. Grilled fish or octopus, coated with a sauce of crushed chilies, ginger and garlic are national favorites, along with a variety of delicious curries, lovingly prepared with coconut milk, and innovative chutneys made from local fruits, such as papaya and golden apple.
For being such a small country, the Seychelles have a vibrant art scene that encompasses painters, sculptors, writers and poets, artisans of many types, musicians and dancers. Painters have traditionally taken inspiration from the richness of the Seychelles’ natural beauty to produce a broad collection of works, using mediums ranging from water colors to oils, acrylics, collages, metals, aluminum, wood, fabrics, gauche, varnishes, recycled materials, pastels, charcoal, embossing, etching, and giclée prints. Music and dance have always played a prominent role in Seychelles culture and in all kinds of local festivities.
The people in Seychelles live a simple and unsophisticated island life, and tourism is carefully controlled to protect the unspoiled charm of the islands. Before the international airport was opened in 1971, the islands could be reached only by sea, and since they are miles from anywhere, visitors were few and locals were little influenced by the outside world. They developed their own language and culture – which, like so many things on the Seychelles – are unique.
The nation’s focus on conservation is reflected in its wide range of ecotourism offerings, and a Seychelles holiday represents the best of both worlds: luxury-resort indulgence plus remarkable wildlife experiences you’ll remember for the rest of your life.
When to go to the Seychelles?
Travelers planning to visit the Seychelles should consider the effect that two monsoon seasons have on the area’s climate. The southeast monsoon season hits each May through September and brings with it cool breezes and cloudy skies. The northwest monsoon season means clear skies and clear waters, along with high temperatures and, at times, rain. Seychelles travel reaches a peak during July and August and during the winter holiday season through the New Year. Many travelers, however, choose to visit the Seychelles in November and April for a mix of both seasons.
AirlinePros partner Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of Seychelles, offers international flights to Abu Dhabi, Antananarivo, Johannesburg, Mauritius, Mumbai, Düsseldorf and Paris. Air Seychelles also operates daily domestic flights, as well as charter services throughout the archipelago.


Raccoons in Southern Ontario have adapted to urban life and are commonly seen or encountered in parks, neighborhoods or yards. Raccoons may carry diseases that can be spread to people and pets, including raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris), leptospirosis, and rabies. They can also cause serious scratch and bite injuries to people and pets.
Though they look cute and cuddly, raccoons are related to bears and have a similar temperament-especially when cornered or around their young. If you have one living in your home, in your yard or anywhere else on your property, contact City Wildlife Control to have our professionals humanely remove the animal.
Preventing diseases from raccoons
- Discourage raccoons around your residence.
- Never feed raccoons
- Feed pets inside and store pet food inside
- Keep pets inside at night
- Prevent raccoons from entering your house through pet doors or other openings
- Keep garbage cans inside and use locking or secured lids outside
- Clean barbecue grills after each use
- Use secure bins for food composting
- Avoid contact with raccoon feces and safely clean up areas where raccoons defecate (raccoon latrines) on your property.
- Avoid direct contact with water, soil and vegetation contaminated with raccoon urine.
- Vaccinate cats, dogs and ferrets to protect them against rabies; consider vaccinating dogs for leptospirosis.
Raccoons in Southern Ontario
- Cause damage to attics and roofs
- Chew through wires;
- Damage wooden joists;
- Tip over garbage cans
- Steal pet food and bird seed
- Cause further problems under decks, front porches, decks, and other concrete slabs
- Spread diseases, including rabies, to humans and pets
- Carry fleas, ticks and other parasites, leading to even more diseases
- Alarm dogs, cats and other pets with their presence during the night due to their nocturnal habits
Why you need City Wildlife Control Service
Raccoons weigh between 10-20 lbs. (sometimes up to 50), are crafty and can get out of most traps sold in stores. There are no effective raccoon repellents. While cute, a raccoon’s bear-like temperament makes it unsuitable for close contact or being a pet. Infested attics need to be cleaned and decontaminated to avoid infection by disease or bacteria.
If you would like advice on choosing the correct solution for your Raccoon problem, please call us at City Wildlife Control 905-972-9453 or email email@example.com


Specifically targeted alkaline Solubility
Our core competence lies in the specific design of our polymers for the defined solubility in aqueous alkaline solutions. They can be dissolved in diluted or weak alkaline solutions starting from a pH value of 9.
The type and duration of the dissolution process are affected by the following factors:
- Alkaline concentration and pH value
- Polymer composition
- Layer thickness
Combinations of this wide rang of variables enable them to match to match the properties to the specific needs and conditions of each process.
This simplifies the processing conditions considerably – or makes them possible in the first place. Major quality enhancements and cost reductions can be achieved as a result.
BELLAND®Polymers do not influence the bacteria population in waste water treatment plants. The local regulations for the discharge of alkaline solutions into the waste water streams need to be observed.


Help support the effort to restore native fish runs to Idaho's Snake and Salmon River basins with purchase of the Grand Salmon Short-Sleeve Eco T-Shirt. All proceeds from the sale of this 100% recycled-fabric tee will be donated to Idaho Rivers United to fund wild salmon and steelhead conservation efforts.
- The Grand Salmon Eco T-Shirt features original artwork celebrating the source-to-sea journey of four women from the headwaters of Idaho's Salmon River to the Pacific Ocean in 2022.
- Libby Tobey, Brooke Hess, Alia Payne and Hailey Thompson will travel over 1,000 miles, following the natural migration path of anadromous fish from the rivers of central Idaho to the Pacific Ocean.
- The 100% recycled Recover™ Eco T-shirt is made with a soft blend of post-consumer polyester and upcycled cotton.
- 100% of proceeds go to benefit Idaho Rivers United, a Boise-based nonprofit that has worked to restore wild salmon and steelhead to Idaho for over 30 years.
- Learn more about the Grand Salmon Project at salmonsourcetosea.com and follow @salmonsourcetosea on Instagram.
|Fabric: || |
- 40% Post-consumer PET plastic
- 60% Upcycled cotton
|Weight: ||4.4 oz |
|Gender Sizing: ||Men |
|Features: || |
- Soft Material
- Vintage look and feel


NAT Vent Attenuator
The NAT Vent Attenuator has been designed for low energy buildings to overcome the clashes between natural ventilation and acoustics. It allows the flow of air into and through a building, while preventing the spread of noise.
The NAT Vent Attenuator can be easily incorporated into the facade of a building to provide natural ventilation and increase its acoustic performance, irrespective of environmental noise levels. It can also be incorporated into partitions for cross ventilation.
Simple. Cost efficient. Flexible. Customisable. Plus, its exceptional performance means it complies with BB93, HTM and other key acoustic standards.


Casa del Mar is an eco aqua villa built over the Caribbean sea in Dolphin Bay, on Isla Cristobal in the archipelago of Bocas del Toro, Panama.
The villa is situated on a mile long coral reef in a remote location approx. 20 minutes by boat from Bocas town/airport.
Our goal is to offer guests an intimate experience with nature where you can relax in comfort while at the same time minimizing the impact on the environment through off grid living.Read More...
Dolphin Bay & Finca Buena Vida
Casa and Casita del Mar, perched on the south tip of Isla Cristobal overlooking the calm protected waters of Dolphin Bay, home to approx. 80 year-round resident Bottlenose Dolphins. On clear nights the bioluminescence in the water are stunning. The mile-long coral reef in front of the villas is home to an abundance of sea life including ray, tropical fish, barracuda, crab, lobster and puffa fish to name just a few.
Casa and Casita del Mar are located in the Beautiful neighborhood of Finca Buena Vida aka “The Good Life” situated on 80 lush acres and 15acres of common trails for hiking and nature walks. The well-marked trails take past magnificent grandfather trees, through orchards, banana groves, past a lagoon and the top of a mountain lookout. You will have the opportunity to see monkeys, sloth, toucan, many birds, reptiles and wildlife.Read More...
Casita Del Mar is a eco Aqua Over the Water Villa
Completed May 1st 2017, we are proud to offer our Casita del Mar, an eco aqua villa built over the Caribbean ocean in Dolphin Bay, on Isla Cristobal in the archipelago of Bocas del Toro, Panama.
It is the sister villa to Casa del Mar which was built in 2012 which is located 3 lots over and can accommodate bigger groups of up to 8 guests. Both Villa's can be rented together to accommodate 15 guests total.Read More...


The first IWC sanctuary was established in the Antarctic in 1938, south of 40°S between longitudes 70°W and 160°W. The original reason for this was that in this sector commercial whaling had not hitherto been prosecuted and it was thought highly desirable that the immunity which whales in this area had enjoyed should be maintained. This sanctuary was continued by the IWC from its inception until 1955, when the area was opened initially for three years as a means of reducing the pressure of catches on the rest of the Antarctic whaling grounds.
The Indian Ocean Sanctuary was established by the IWC in 1979, extending south to 55°S latitude, as an area where commercial whaling is prohibited. The Indian Ocean Sanctuary was initially established for 10 years and its duration has since been extended twice.
At the 46th (1994) Annual Meeting the IWC adopted the Southern Ocean Sanctuary as another area in which commercial whaling is prohibited. The northern boundary of this Sanctuary follows the 40°S parallel of latitude except in the Indian Ocean sector where it joins the southern boundary of that sanctuary at 55°S, and around South America and into the South Pacific where the boundary is at 60°S. This prohibition will be reviewed ten years after its initial adoption and at succeeding ten year intervals, and could be revised at such times by the IWC.
At the 54th meeting in 2002 the Scientific Committee established a Working Group to review existing IWC sanctuaries and sanctuary proposals and carried out a review of the Indian Ocean Sanctuary. A Committee Steering Group was established and produced a list of evaluation criteria to facilitate the review (JCRM 2003, Appendix 3, pp. 418-419). After extensive discussions within the Committee there was little consensus in the overall evaluation of the sanctuary regarding its objectives, aside from agreement that since its establishment, whales have been protected from commercial whaling within its boundaries. Subsequently, the Commission agreed to continue the prohibition but did not discuss whether or not it should set a time when the Sanctuary should be reviewed again.
Note: The Southern Ocean Sanctuary was due for review at the 2004 meeting.
Two additional proposals for the establishment of sanctuaries in the South Atlantic and South Pacific have been submitted to the Commission for a number of years. To date, both have failed to achieve the three-quarters majority of votes needed to change the Schedule and become designated IWC Sanctuaries.


On June 13th and June 14th, 2019, Ambassador Masato Watanabe visited the Bulgarian city of Varna. After attending the opening ceremony of the “18th Varna International Festival of Red Cross and Health Films” on June 13th, he visited on the following day the wind power plant of Kaliakra Wind Power (KWP) located in the municipality of Kavarna and learned more about the current condition of the plant by the explanation of the executive director Mr. Petkov. KWP is a project developed jointly by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. and its Bulgarian partner - INOS-1, Ltd. The KWP wind power plant has been in commercial operation since 2008.
Visit of Ambassador Watanabe to the wind power plant of Kaliakra Wind Power
July 4, 2019


Japanese Knotweed is a big problem in the United Kingdom and in North America. This rugged plant has robust growth habits and is very nearly impossible to kill. In this article, we will describe this offensive intruder and explain why it is so important to get the help of a Japanese Knotwood Specialist to eradicate it. Read on to learn more.
If you live in Japan, the UK, Mexico or North America, you are sure to have seen it; although you may have heard it referred to by one of its other names. This invasive pest has two botanical names: Polygonum cuspidatum and Fallopia japonica. It is also commonly called:
* Japanese Knotweed
* Japanese Bamboo
* Mexican Bamboo
* Godzilla Weed
Even though the plant has canes like a bamboo plant, it is not actually bamboo. It is really a type of buckwheat. While the plant does have some uses as an animal feed, its rampantly invasive nature makes it a true pest that has worn out its welcome completely.
How Did It Get Out Of Japan?
Like many invasive plants, this easy-to-grow, individually attractive plant was purposely introduced to the UK as a novel addition to English gardens and as a potential source of animal feed. In the mid-1800s, a gentleman by the name of Philippe von Siebold brought innocent-looking cuttings of the plant to the UK and began selling them to individuals.
The plant reproduced quickly, became popular and was available for general sale to the public around 1870. This availability promoted wide spread of the plant, and around the turn of the century people began to see just what a horrible pest it really is.
Why Is Japanese Knotweed Considered A Pest?
This plant can grow so rapidly you can almost watch it! It can spread a full yard every day. It grows from rhizomes which spread aggressively through the soil to a depth of about two meters. They are so vigorous that they actually cause damage to plumbing, the foundations of houses, roadways and other structures. In fact, having Godzilla Plant near your home can significantly reduce the value of your home.
Its destructive nature has caused purposeful growth of it to become a criminal offense. The Wildlife & Country Act of 1981 makes it illegal to introduce it into wild areas. If you have the plant on your property and do not take steps to remove it or control it, you could be served with an ASBO (Antisocial Behaviour Order).
What Can You Do?
Getting rid of and/or controlling this invader is difficult. Whatever you do, don’t try to eradicate it by digging it up. You will never get all the roots, and digging just encourages it to spread. It is possible to contain it by digging a deep trench around it and inserting a root barrier to a depth of three meters; however, the barrier must be installed correctly to work. Also, bear in mind that if you disrupt the rhizomes when you dig, you run the risk of spreading the plant rather than eradicating it.
There are a number of above-ground techniques you could try, including spraying it with herbicide or injecting an herbicidal solution into its stem; however, this takes a long time to work, and it is very expensive. In very humid areas, some types of insects may help with natural control of the plant; however, bear in mind that this is a very vigorous plant, and it is highly likely to develop defenses against both artificial and natural attempts to control or eradicate it.
A Japanese Knotweed Specialist Can Help You Devise A Plan
Understandably, control of Godzilla Weed is a big business in the UK, and those who specialize in battling this horticultural threat are held to high standards of performance and accountability. A true specialist will take great care in mapping out your problem and developing a solid plan to deal with it. He or she will keep accurate records of the progress of your eradication project. When there are canes and rhizomes to be disposed of, you can count on them being handled as controlled waste products to eliminate the risk of spread. Best of all, when you contract with a specialist, you will be the first to know when new methods of dealing with this threat are developed.


Midwest Biodiesel Products, LLC is an Illinois based fuel company that produces one of the cleanest, safest and more efficient fuels on the market – biodiesel. Biodiesel creates a new and better energy source that will help our economy, help our farmers and lessen our dependency on foreign oil.
The inspiration of Midwest Biodiesel Products, LLC was to find a safer fuel alternative for the environment.
Content copyright . Midwest Biodiesel Products, LLC 7350 State Route 111 South Roxana, IL 62087 618-254-2920. All rights reserved.


The pyrolysis system demonstrates:
• Stable operation for a broad range of waste quality
• Emissions from the system are well below the limit values
• Flexibility in design and operation achieved by a modular design
• Effective initial waste volume reducing
• Efficient recovery of the materials and energy from the process
• Low operational costs; no supplementary external fuel supply for the normal operation, i.e.significant reduction of running costs
The pyrolysis system is designed for treatment of variety of different wastes such as municipal solid waste (MSW), sewage and oil
sludge, automotive shredder residuals (ASR or car fluff), e-waste, rubber and tyres, medical waste, plastics, agricultural waste,
as well as cleaning of the contaminated soil. Dozens of the commercial pyrolysis facilities for treatment of different feedstocks
were designed and built so far.
The pyrolysis facility can operate as stand-alone waste-to-energy plant as well as the part of big power plants. In the last case the pyrolysis process thermally treats the waste and generates fuel, namely pyrolysis gas and pyrolysis char.
These fuels are then co-fired in the power plant boiler unit. Pyrolysis process in this configuration disposes waste, simultaneously replacing part of the fossil fuels, consumed by the power plant.


I originally started this blog back in 2008 to chronicle my time working on organic farms in Pennsylvania, California, and Hawaii through WWOOF (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms). After my short foray into farming, I got my Masters in Library and Information Science and started working as a librarian.
I live in Kalamazoo, Michigan with my family. Though I never became a farmer, I love growing things, especially flowers. I’m interested in maximizing the growing season, even in our northern climate, and growing plants that support birds and butterflies.
Last, I acknowledge that the land my family and I live on and garden is historically Pottawatomi land, specifically the traditional land of the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish band of Pottawatomi. Pottawatomi comprise one part of the historic Three Fires Confederacy, an alliance between the Pottawatomi (Bodewadmi), Ottawa (Odawa), and Chippewa (Ojibwe). For more information please see the website of the Match-E-Be-Nash-She-Wish Band of Pottawatomi Indians (Gun Lake Tribe) and the Land Acknowledgment of Kalamazoo College.


Most of New York City is situated on islands. Manhattan, Staten Island, and Brooklyn and Queens—which are part of Long Island—are all surrounded by water. The newly developed Pier 35 offers an immersive experience of that nautical environment. The waterfront oasis on the Lower East Side provides a tangible sense of tidal choreographies and biodiversity, along with striking views of Brooklyn, great picnicking spots and space for contemplative pursuits like tai chi. To top it all off, there are porch swings.
The pier is the final piece in the redevelopment of the East River Waterfront Esplanade, a 2-mile-long stretch of gathering space, walkways, bikeways and other amenities. Designed by the architecture firm SHoP in collaboration with landscape architects Ken Smith Workshop, Pier 35 is a showcase for new thinking in urban sustainability.
In addition to a tidal estuary that is helping to restore habitat for mussels, the park space is bordered by a massive green wall that will be the largest such installation in the City. “We hope that, with this project, and the rest of our work on the East River Waterfront Esplanade, we can inspire a dialogue about the different ways to incorporate public space, and green space, into our communities,” says Cathy Jones, the lead architect for the project. Below, check out our guide to Pier 35’s key features.
This area, so named “Mussel Beach” because of its role in restoring habitat for ribbed and blue mussels, is visible through an extensive cutout in the pier construction, close to the entrance, where a metal footbridge spans the concrete bed that slopes downward toward the river. The water noticeably rises during high tide and recedes during low tide (you can find timing predictions here).
Landscape designer Ken Smith notes that while some of the design touches—the pier’s dunes, lawns and folded metal screen at the back of the site—were devices for making the pier’s space feel bigger, “Mussel Beach makes the time feel bigger” because of the way it focuses visitors’ attention. “Normally in Manhattan, if you see the edge of the river at all, it’s static,” he says. “You don’t see it moving up and down.”
This is one of many areas in the development that exemplify its planners’ “prototyping” approach, in which smaller projects serve as tests for ideas that, once tested and proven effective, can be more widely implemented. If the mussels thrive at this estuary, says Smith, there could be “more robust installations elsewhere up and down the river.”
Mussels, oysters and other mollusks once were populous denizens of the Hudson River and surrounding areas until their numbers diminished in the early 20th century because of overharvesting, pollution and habitat degradation. In recent years, they’ve made a comeback as local groups have spearheaded restoration efforts like the Billion Oyster Project and the River Project on the Hudson River. Mussels, like oysters, remove toxins and pollutants from the water while helping to restore habitat for other marine creatures. They have an affinity for those liminal areas between dry land and open ocean, making the estuary an ideal habitat. According to the scientist tracking the Pier 35 site, the mussels have begun to repopulate there. Working in collaboration with an ecologist, Smith’s team made sure the underlying concrete was given a ridged texture that mussels like, and they carefully placed boulders on top so as to allow ideally sized crevices where the creatures would attach.
At over 300 feet long and 35 feet high in some places, the green wall is a showcase feature of Pier 35. Smith carefully chose the varieties of plants so they would be hardy enough to survive urban conditions and sufficiently aggressive to engulf the metal screen that forms their climbing wall—a process that will take an estimated two years. Smith selected Virginia creeper and Boston ivy—typically the plants that cover buildings on college campuses—for their mettle, adding in honeysuckle vine for fragrant flowers and trumpet vine for its pretty blossoms. The evergreen English ivy will be a constant as other vines change colors and fade during the fall and winter. The wall has several practical roles; its foliage moderates the air temperature here and hides the still-active DSNY building on the pier’s northern side.
Near the East River side of the pier, on a raised platform, are four metal porch swings suspended from a canopy. The elevation allows for spectacular views of the water, the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, across the river into Dumbo and Williamsburg, and south along the esplanade. The swings have already proven to be a popular attraction. “We think of the area that houses the swings as the City’s ‘front porch,’” says Jones. “Since you are above grade and above obstructions such as railings, you get the feeling that you’re suspended in the middle of the river.”
The nighttime lighting at Pier 35 was designed to enhance the location’s comfort and fit into the site’s sustainable design. The lights are highly efficient, long-lasting LEDs. Lighting installations subtly integrated into the wood bench seating provide the area with a warm glow, highlighting spaces to gather and sit. Brighter LED floodlights are used to light the green wall, and the strategic absence of light in some spots is as notable as its presence. Instead of the “pedestrian poles” typically used along the waterfront’s perimeter—as they are on the Hudson River side—the lights at the pier are all located away from the water’s edge, ensuring that viewers will have gorgeous, unobstructed views when looking out.


I loved inchworms as a child. They are a beautiful shade of green and, as kids, we were fascinated by the way they move. It’s still pretty cool to watch.
Whenever an inchworm would hitchhike into our house via my dog (Honey J. Dog) we would always sing this song:
Measuring the marigolds
Seems to me you’d stop and see
How beautiful they are
After a choral acknowledgement of the little green guy, we’d carefully catch the inch worm and release it outside.
Where we live now, the inchworms are out in full force. They are hanging from trees like noiseless wind-chimes, swaying softly in the humid breeze.
According to AsktheExterminator.com, inch worms have the ability to spin a web similar to a spider’s web. When threatened, they drop from the tree and swing on a single thread until the risk is over. The thread eventually hardens and the inchworm climbs back to its food supply. Amazing.
As an adult I’ve learned that inch worms are a pest in the garden. Even though they have a cool way of moving and an amazing talent for avoiding danger, they are a nuisance. They devastate my plants, eating the leaves off my vegetables and my fruit trees.
They are feasting on my lemon trees at this moment. I find dozens in our house every day. No longer charmed by inchworms, I still sing to them. I can’t help it. Loud and strong, I break into the inchworm song before I release the silk-spinning wonders.
My garden will be happy when inchworm season is over. Come to think of it, so will my husband.


In 2016, the Colorado Chapter of the American Planning Association (APA Colorado) partnered with the University of Colorado Denver’s Colorado Center for Sustainable Urbanism (CCSU) to investigate opportunities to advance opportunities to advance the relationship between human health and the built environment. The Colorado Chapter’s Executive Board identified a project steering committee to oversee this collaborative effort. The Committee agreed to build on work already underway within the College of Architecture and Planning and titled this work, Creating Healthy Places through Transformational Education and Design. That work, funded by a grant through the Colorado Health Foundation, had already developed draft evaluation tools for assessing how a local community can make human health and wellness more foundational in scoping, developing, and implementing planning and design projects and programs.
PLAN4Health Colorado Final Report
Using a working draft of the Health Assessment Lens, the PLAN4Health Colorado project partnered with local staff in the communities of Brush, Durango, and Westminster to apply health assessment provisions in each place. As a result, a set of findings and recommendations was prepared for the three communities to carry forward in near term and future work.


For events on the Cam, see the Cam Conservancy Events Diary
new events coming soon...
World Rivers Day Festival was held last Sunday 25th September 2011
World Rivers Day, 25th September 2011 on Jesus Green, Cambridge.
Below is a short description of the things which we will be doing. We are hoping to make it a very local hands on participatory festival which will promote local groups as well as promote an appreciation of the river. Proceeds will go to Water Aid.
World Rivers Day held on the last Sunday of September is a global celebration of the world's rivers and waterways. It highlights many of the values of rivers, strives to increase public awareness and improve stewardship.
World Rivers Day has been endorsed by various agencies of the United Nations and is intended to complement the broader efforts of the United Nation'sWater for Life Decade.
The Cambridge River Festival on the 25th September 2011 from 10am to 6pm will celebrate our own river whilst following the aims of World Rivers Day.
The World Rivers Day Festival will be a festival which encourages local community cohesion and engagement. It will emphasize the cultural, ecological, historical, aesthetic and recreational importance of rivers. In an atmosphere of celebration the festival will encourage, educate and help facilitate positive actions so that the community will learn to live in a more environmentally sound manner, be more culturally tolerant, and be more
appreciative of our local rivers. It is a festival about engaging in theactivities and events rather than merely watching.
Workshops, taster and demonstration sessions.
These will include rowing, fishing, canoeing and punting.
The public will be shown how locks work and be able to work a boat through the whole process using Jesus Green lock. In addition there will be workshops and community stalls covering personal well-being through yoga, massage, herbalism etc.
Art and craft projects and a variety of children's activities.
These will include the making of community murals, children's art, poetry and writing exhibitions, activities on the City Council's new ChYPPS play boat, recycled art projects run by the City Council's Scrapstore, willow
weaving, face painting etc. The history of the traditional “Roses and Castles” art, which is particular to narrowboats, will be presented through a treasure hunt style activity.
An introduction to the boating community and the history of boating on the river.
Residential and historic boats will be open to visitors so the public can learn about this way of life, it's cultural history and also the history of the way boats and the river Cam are linked. In addition there will be short films about river life
Low carbon, low water and sustainable lifestyles being shown and discussed.
A variety of local community stalls covering environmental issues, such as water conservation, alternative energy forms and sustainable living will be present. In addition boats will be open to demonstrate their low environmental impact lifestyle.
The natural history of rivers and their conservation.
This is being presented through talks, films, posters, and community stands such as RSPB, Cambridge Mammal Group, Cambridge Fish Preservation and Angling Society and Cambridge Past Present and Future, Water Aid, Oxfam etc.
Music and theatre.
To add to the mix there will be music and theatre with various bands, storytelling, music groups and more.
A variety of stalls.
Stalls selling local produce, crafts, clothes and refreshments with an emphasis on sustainable produce as far as is feasible.


There is one number you should remember when it comes to figuring out if deer ticks are active, 32, the number indicating if the temperature outside is freezing.
If it is above 32 degrees, it is considered to be above freezing, and at this temperature or higher, deer ticks can be active. According to some, 35 degrees is the magic number when it comes to ticks being active.
We know this is not good news. For so long, it was thought that deer ticks died during colder temperatures. To learn that they only become dormant is quite distressing. We want any insect that can cause life-altering, physically devastating illnesses like Lyme disease to die, die, die.
But, just because deer ticks can be active during colder months, you don’t have to stay locked up in your house to avoid an encounter with one of them.
Understand What Dormancy Means
When you hear the word dormant, you may think of hibernation, a unique form of dormancy.
Bears are an excellent example of something that hibernates. They spend months eating food and preparing themselves for winter. Once it arrives, bears enter a den or cave and fall into a sleep stage that can last for months. They do this by lowering their body’s temperature, metabolism, and breathing rate.
Hibernation allows animals to survive through colder months when food is not as easily accessed. They stay in hibernation no matter how often the temperatures vary outdoors.
Dormancy is a period of inactivation. It’s like a nap compared to hibernation. For deer ticks, dormancy means they put their bodies in an inactive mode temporarily. As soon as the temperature rises, they jump back into action. Ticks can become dormant and active many times throughout the colder months.
This means you can still get Lyme disease during the cold months of the year.
Still, you do not need to prepare to stay indoors during the winter if the temperature is above freezing. So, how can you stay safe?
Protect Your Body
No, you do not need to wear full-body armor to enjoy activities outside during the winter. On the other hand, you must cover parts of your body with the right clothing. Even for those who are hot, no matter what the temperature is outside, you must wear protection — no more wearing flip flops in mid-December to take a quick hike on a nearby trail.
Start with the top of your body, the head. If you are going outdoors in the winter, wearing a hat is recommended. A hat can pull double duty, retaining heat and protection from insects. The rest of your body should be covered as well, including your feet.
The idea is that your clothing provides a barrier between you and any insects, like the deer tick, that latch onto you when you are outside.
Protect Your Clothing
You can take protection one step further by protecting your clothing with a repellant. Many environmentally safe insect repellants on the market do an excellent job of deterring ticks from latching onto your clothing.
Look for EPA-registered products. Choose a repellant that was developed specifically for deer ticks.
Don’t just spray your shoes with a repellant. For best coverage, before you dress, take your clothes outside and spray them thoroughly with repellant. Also, pay attention to how long the repellant is effective. You may need to respray depending on how long you will be outdoors.
Keep Up With Landscaping
Even when it gets cold outside, grass can continue to grow when the weather fluctuates. Those spring-like temperatures that happen in late November can encourage lawn growth. Deer ticks live in tall, brushy grass areas.
Pay attention to your lawn and if the grass is high, mow it. If you have many trees in your yard that have all lost their leaves, get rid of the leaves. Ticks love leaf litter. Do what you can to eliminate thriving habitats for ticks.
Be Aware of the Location You Visit
If you know where you will be outdoors, you can better prepare. If you plan to ski at your favorite resort, understand what lies beneath the snow. Why? Because as soon as the snow begins to melt, temperatures have risen to a point where ticks can become active again.
If you are walking on a trail near your home, stay away from higher grass areas. Walk the center of the trails instead.
If you are flying cross-country to visit a relative, check to see if they are in a high-risk area for deer ticks. For example, if you fly from Arizona to Connecticut, you may want to investigate tick activity in that State, where Lyme disease was first discovered.
Protect Your Pets
If you have pets that go outside for any reason, you must protect them from the dangers of deer ticks. Pets can also get Lyme disease when bitten by a black-legged deer tick, even in the winter months.
Use FDA approved repellants for your pets. The symptoms of Lyme disease can be just as devastating for your pet, including joint swelling and pain, digestive issues, and more.
You could be the world’s best at protecting yourself from ticks, and yet somehow, one of those tiny devils finds its way onto your body. Even when this happens, there is still time to prevent getting Lyme disease through post-outdoor checks.
As soon as you re-enter your home from the outdoors, do a check of your clothing, body, and pets. Humans have thousands of body parts. You can check them all within a minute or two.
Check your pets’ body parts too.
Do not let a small insect control your outdoor activity. Take these steps to prevent a tick bite and the possibility of contracting Lyme disease and enjoy the outdoors all year.