Just as we thought the haze and smoke in the air was due to clear out last week, a fresh wave enveloped us this week. It’s not just a problem in the Puget Sound region — the entire Pacific Northwest and much of the West is experiencing unhealthy air quality. That means you may have […]
The Outdoors
Local outdoor aficionados share tips and information about outdoor recreation, from fishing to bird watching.
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Get Ready for Boating Season at Boating Safety Event in Gig Harbor
The boating season opening is just around the corner, and just in time for you to get ready, you can get your boat inspected for free. The Gig Harbor Police Department Marine Services Unit will offer free boating safety vessel inspections and educational seminars from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, April 29. You can […]
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9 Reasons to Plant a Tree this Spring
Did you know that planting a tree is one of the easiest and most powerful things you can do to have a positive impact on the environment? Trees clean the air, prevent rainwater runoff, help you save energy and even combat global warming. And they’re a snap to plant! No horticultural degree required. With Arbor […]
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Interesting Winter Bird Flocks
Pine siskins, American goldfinches and common redpolls are cousins, members of the large finch family. During the winter months, they frequently flock together in the search for food. Flocks of pine siskins can grow into the hundreds at this time. You have to look at them carefully if you want to find a species other […]
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Song Sleuth with Sibley
Wildlife Acoustics, maker of the Song Sleuth bird-identifying app, has announced the launch of a birding sweepstakes. It is presented by L.L. Bean Co., maker of outdoor wear and gear. David Sibley, renowned artist and author of “Sibley’s Guide to Birds,” is the prize. The winner of the sweepstakes will have the opportunity to enjoy […]
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10 Steps to Winterizing Your Outdoor Power Equipment
If you’re done aerating and getting your lawn ready for the winter, you’re probably ready to put your outdoor power equipment away. Did you know that outdoor power equipment needs to be winterized before it is stored for the fall? That helps avoid problems in the spring. The Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) recommends for […]
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What’s Contributing More to Climate Change, SUVs or Our Dinner Plate?
It may surprise you to learn the global impact of the humble cheeseburger. The climate impact of food has not been discussed as much as driving or deforestation, but there is an increasing awareness of the role that our food plays in climate change. Food production; the clearing, growing, harvesting, transporting, packaging and processing of […]
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September Is the Month for Migrants
Two bird-related events make September one of the most exciting and interesting months for bird watching. Bird population numbers are the highest they will be for an entire year due to all of the young birds raised this year. The other reason for the month’s excitement is that migrating bird numbers reach their peak in […]
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Fun Facts about the Great American Eclipse — and Where You Can See It
Are you still hoping to get a peek at the “Great American Eclipse” on Aug. 21? Millions of Americans will only have to drive 60 or 70 miles to see the total eclipse, according to the GreatAmericanEclipse.com website. NASA says that the totality path, “where the moon will completely cover the sun and the sun’s […]