The U.S. Coast Guard’s most recent recreational boating report (pdf) counted 4,291 accidents that involved 658 deaths, 2,629 injuries and approximately $46 million of damage to property as a result of recreational boating accidents. Sadly, only 14 percent of the boat operators in fatal accidents had formal safety training, and 81 percent had no training […]
The Outdoors
Local outdoor aficionados share tips and information about outdoor recreation, from fishing to bird watching.
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The Thrill of the Grill — Why Do You Do It?
Americans have a long-standing love affair with grilling. This relationship started many years ago. Our ancestors first learned to cook over an open flame, and today grilling has become a year-round lifestyle choice, with many preferring to cook outdoors on the grill. Why do Americans love grilling so much? The reasons are wide ranging. Some […]
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How to Get Your Lawn Ready for Your Easter Egg Hunt
Easter morning will be here before we know it. Families will be in their yards and seeking perfect Easter photo opportunities. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) has some tips on how to make sure you have an enjoyable and safe hunt. “You want to spruce up your lawn before the kids are out there […]
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Public-Private Partnership Will Protect 430 Acres on Hood Canal
A recently formed public-private partnership will protect Camp Hahobas on the shores of Hood Canal near Belfair. Working in collaboration, The Trust for Public Land, Great Peninsula Conservancy, Washington State Department of Natural Resources and U.S. Navy have protected important lands in the unique Hood Canal ecosystem for multiple public benefits, including habitat conservation, recreation, […]
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Mayo Clinic’s 10 Tips for Avoiding Falls
During the winter season, you may need to pay closer attention to watching your step. But fall prevention is something you should work on year-round. Even if you’re active, healthy and full of life, statistics show that you have a greater chance of taking a debilitating fall as you age. Mayo Clinic notes that some […]
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7 Benefits of Walking for Seniors
With a fresh new year underway, many of us are making resolutions to begin a healthier lifestyle. If you are a senior, you might want to consider a regular walking routine to improve your overall wellbeing and to put yourself on track for successful aging in the future. Walking, by nature, is a low-to-moderate exercise. […]
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Is Your Dinner Contributing to Plastic Pollution in the Ocean?
Did you know that the choices your local grocery store makes can have a global impact on the environment? From the types and brands of seafood sold to the way foods are packaged and carried out of the store, oceans worldwide are affected by the operations of grocers near you. Fortunately, supermarkets across the country […]
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Wasp Numbers on the Rebound — Avoiding the Stings
Ask any gardener, hiker or picnicker — the region’s wasp population got its sting back. “Compared to recent years, the number of wasps is considerably up,” said Richard Zack, Washington State University entomologist. Equipped with sharp stingers, craving sugar and searching for water sources in a parched landscape, yellow jackets and paper wasps have been […]
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Best Hikes With Kids around Western Washington, Part 1
Editor’s note: While the weather is still gorgeous, are you trying to pack in as much outdoor times as possible? If you have little ones, hiking can be a challenge. This excerpt was adapted from hiking expert Susan Elderkin’s book, “Best Hikes With Kids: Western Washington” (Mountaineers Books, April 2018), recommends several hikes around our […]