Category Archives: Environment

Inner NE Sewer Extension Construction Update: June 27, 2014

Posted on by

sewerage

 

Environmental Services is constructing 3,100 feet of new public sewer pipe and 1,450 feet of sewer laterals that will provide 65 properties with direct and independent connections to the public sewer. This work is part of the City of Portland’s effort to provide properties with sewer connections that comply with city code. The project will also help protect public health, property, and the environment by increasing the capacity of the public sewer system, reducing the potential for basement backups, and reducing the likelihood of emergency maintenance work in the future. Continue reading →

Summertime Water Conservation tips.

Posted on by

Waterwise Gardening: 10 Simple Ways to Save Water and Money this Summer

 

Landscapes add value, beauty and livability to our homes. With water use often doubling in the dry summer months due to outdoor watering, lawns and gardens also offer great potential to save time, money and water by making simple waterwise improvements.

In the Portland area, we receive 90 percent of our rainfall October through May. That means we use the most water during the very same months that we get the least rain. Being efficient with your water use makes sound economic and environmental sense, and helps our region meet its long-term water supply needs.

Waterwise gardening doesn’t have to look like a typical southwest cactus and rock landscape. Rather, waterwise gardening practices that incorporate efficient watering tips can create beautiful landscapes that are multi-colored, vibrant and bountiful, even during the hottest summer days. Continue reading →

Tadpole Tales for Tykes

Posted on by

57_20130115_102725Children aged 3-5 with their parents are invited to a short story and guided nature walk. Watch birds fly overhead, search for hidden animal homes, and learn about local trees and flowers. Topics will vary each week at each location. Topics include: pond life, birds, dirt and worms, and mammals. Routes are accessible to strollers. Families are welcome to bring a snack. Advanced registration required by emailing intern@columbiaslough.org or calling 503-281-1132

Appropriate for what ages? 3-5
Day/Date: Wednesdays, March-May

Time: 10 -11 AM

Cost: $3 admission/donation per child, no charge for adults.

Location/Address: Locations change each month…
• March: Whitaker Ponds Nature Park, 7040 NE 47th Ave, Portland
• April: Columbia Children’s Arboretum, 300 NE Meadow Ln., Portland 97211
• May: Columbia Slough Water Quality Facility, 19595 NE Sandy, Portland

Phone Number (for general public for more information): 503 281-1132

Web site: http://www.columbiaslough.org/calendar_detail.aspx?calendar_id=231

Friends of Trees needs you–and your pickup truck

Posted on by

FOT_logo_colorVolunteer with your truck…and help plant trees in your neighborhood!

How to Get Involved:
Can you volunteer at the King Tree Planting?
February 9, 2013 8am-1pm
Yes? Great! Contact your Neighborhood Coordinator:
Irek Wielgosz (503) 828-6943

Want to volunteer with your truck at another planting?
Contact Friends of Trees at 503-282-8846 x18 or visit www.FriendsOfTrees.org/Volunteer. We need your help moving young trees to their new planting sites at your neighbors’ homes. Breakfast and lunch are included with this morning volunteer opportunity!

http://www.friendsoftrees.org/volunteering/drive-your-pick-up-truck-for-us

Conduct a Tree Inventory in your Community in 2013

Posted on by

treinvApplications are due January 15!

Walking around your neighborhood, do you see areas available for tree planting, street trees in need of maintenance, and neighbors who are concerned but don’t know where to begin? Urban Forestry is helping Portlanders take action to improve their community’s street trees by conducting tree inventories and creating neighborhood tree plans.

Communities begin by forming tree teams and gathering volunteers to conduct a street tree inventory. Volunteers are guided by Urban Forestry staff, who provide training and tools. Together, information is collected on tree species, size, health, site conditions, and available planting spaces. Data is analyzed and findings are presented to neighborhood stakeholders. Achievable strategies are set by the collective body to improve existing trees, identify opportunities for an expanding tree canopy, and connect the neighborhood with city and non-profit resources. The result is a Neighborhood Tree Plan. The plan identifies the current status and health of neighborhood street trees and provides recommendations for neighborhood action.
Continue reading →