tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-67799368616164126472024-03-12T16:25:54.855-07:00Cascadia's Conservation ConversationCascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.comBlogger144125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-86054158607293931612018-07-16T13:17:00.000-07:002018-07-16T13:17:29.981-07:00Last Hoorah!!<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uzoeVBJ2pVQ/W0z8GzwPP1I/AAAAAAAABlY/g4mzNcJO0u8tOmZEOCZLLOVqQ8UnbmsRQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG-2234.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uzoeVBJ2pVQ/W0z8GzwPP1I/AAAAAAAABlY/g4mzNcJO0u8tOmZEOCZLLOVqQ8UnbmsRQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG-2234.JPG" width="240" /></a>The last few projects I worked on here have been truly
inspiring to be a part of, such as our volunteer project at the Entiat National
Fish Hatchery. We were able to coordinate a service project with 16 of our
incredible volunteers to go out to the hatchery and help with some trail
maintenance on over 4.5 acres over the course of the day. I was so impressed by
the positive attitudes and work ethic that every single one of our volunteers
had. We were able to get so much more done than I could have hoped for. By the
end of the day we were all exhausted and as I walked the trail making sure we
had all the materials and that everyone was starting to head back, there were
two volunteers that asked if they could stay just a bit longer so that they
could get around to the next corner. Now this has taken place after hours of
hard work, trimming, weeding, pulling snags, and raking. I did not anticipate
having volunteers asking to stay longer and it caught me off guard for a
moment, and then I had a sense of pride over how hard and how much they cared
about what they were really doing. So, we all grabbed some rakes, pruners and
threw our gloves on to help them to finish that last bit. I could not be more
proud of the teams of volunteers I have worked with this year.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kW8vFr69p7w/W0z8Gg_gaLI/AAAAAAAABlU/wa39dx1NTbQGsP40sl_jr2bhqhaXePdugCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG-2254.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kW8vFr69p7w/W0z8Gg_gaLI/AAAAAAAABlU/wa39dx1NTbQGsP40sl_jr2bhqhaXePdugCLcBGAs/s320/IMG-2254.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wo3BygkrJ78/W0z8Fz0KXHI/AAAAAAAABlQ/eUjso3Fzw9AVBc2_VXRbp1UM2G0TXHPnQCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG-2246.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wo3BygkrJ78/W0z8Fz0KXHI/AAAAAAAABlQ/eUjso3Fzw9AVBc2_VXRbp1UM2G0TXHPnQCLcBGAs/s320/IMG-2246.JPG" width="320" /></a>Working with selfless people who
care about their environment and their communities is so rewarding, and it was
a great way to close out my service. Out volunteers are vital to so many of our
programs success, and throughout this year I have been impressed by the
selfless people who donate their time, knowledge, and skills to our programs
whether it is our Native Plant Sale, after school extended learning, Kids in
the Creek, or any other various volunteer projects. There is a true sense of
community that I have found when I am working with our volunteers and it is
inspiring to see that many people take time from their busy days to help out
their communities and their environment.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Joining Americorps and moving out
to Washington State to serve with Cascadia Conservation has been a true life
changing experience. I have been a part of so many amazing programs throughout
the year and have learned a great deal about conservation, natural resource
management, teaching, non-profits and so much more. This year has not been
easy, but it has been worth every minute. I have encountered so many new
challenges that have prepared me for my next step as I move on with my career
in the conservation world with Sauk County back in Wisconsin as a Conservation
Coordinator this August. I will be missing Washington and my Cascadia team
deeply as I move back, but I am incredibly excited to start this new chapter,
and I know that Americorps has given me a strong foundation and invaluable
experience in which I will continue to pursue conservation and education.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-35322777372662743752018-06-25T11:04:00.002-07:002018-06-25T11:05:12.177-07:00Busy Busy Spring and Summer in Chelan County<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> My position of Natural
Resource Education Coordinator with Cascadia means that I get to help to
coordinate, organize and facilitate many of our environmental education
programs that we provide within Chelan County. We have taught formal lessons to
more than 2,479 K-12 students in Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan County. We have
taught programs on soil health and conservation, wildfires and forest ecology,
agriculture in Washington, and stream health just to name a few.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Spring with Cascadia Conservation District
has become my new favorite season. It is filled with a number of amazing events
and hands on lessons in some of the most beautiful parts of the world. I have
gotten the chance to teach in the shadows of mountains and along the banks of
raging rivers, but most importantly the students have gotten out of the
classroom and have been able to experience all of this as well. Seeing the
excitement in students that have never been to these areas or watching them develop
a new interest and passion for conservation is the most rewarding experience
for me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">In early May we hosted the 25<sup>th</sup>
successful Kids in the Creek program at the Entiat Fish Hatchery. All the
planning and coordinating that went into preparing for this program paid off
when 240 high school students were able to come out to the hatchery for our
field days. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NTuRk31lPrY/WzEtwLUs1rI/AAAAAAAABk8/0o54fBp3D-EX74hZCmuiqwcAK0AP0Yu_ACLcBGAs/s1600/DataCollectingTeamwork.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NTuRk31lPrY/WzEtwLUs1rI/AAAAAAAABk8/0o54fBp3D-EX74hZCmuiqwcAK0AP0Yu_ACLcBGAs/s320/DataCollectingTeamwork.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students Collecting Samples from the Pond at the Entiat Fish Hatchery</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 0.5in;"> </span><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt; text-indent: 0.5in;">We worked with a number of partner
organizations such as US Fish & Wildlife, Forest Service, the City of
Wenatchee, Chelan Co. PUD, and Cascade Columbia Fisheries Enhancement Group to
put this program together. With 40 volunteers from all of these organizations,
and many more, we were able to provide a vast network of professionals for the
students to learn from. The students were able to get a hands on, real life
look into field work and also various professions within the conservation field
at six different field stations. They learned about riparian zones, water
quality, stream habitat, invertebrates, watersheds, water flow and so many more
concepts and ideas taught by local resource specialists. By the end of the day,
a number of students are exhausted but still using every last minute to ask the
station leads more questions about everything from the material they just learned
to specifics on their careers and jobs.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nseH6bQbWd0/WzEt9xFWreI/AAAAAAAABlA/IZSL-hiXhmgSc8DCJUtvhftYaGuR4GlVwCLcBGAs/s1600/IcicleCreekOutreach.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1067" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nseH6bQbWd0/WzEt9xFWreI/AAAAAAAABlA/IZSL-hiXhmgSc8DCJUtvhftYaGuR4GlVwCLcBGAs/s320/IcicleCreekOutreach.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cascadia is an organization I would figuratively <br />
and <i>literally</i> climb a mountain for!!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><span style="mso-tab-count: 1;"> </span>During my service with Cascadia
Conservation District, I have learned a great deal about conservation and
natural resource management, teaching and how to share my passion for
stewardship with others in an effective way, but I have also learned a great
deal about myself and the skills that I possess. This service has given me the
foundation for a career in the conservation world that I cannot wait to
contribute further to.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br />Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-71103428578923563312018-03-22T12:23:00.003-07:002018-03-22T12:23:52.591-07:00Spring with Cascadia Conservation<br />
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Spring is in the air! Everyone is getting
ready to begin their spring planting as this warmer weather looks like it is
here to stay. To celebrate the coming spring we have our Native Plant Sale
going on here at Cascadia. Along with our plant sale we hosted our 8<sup>th</sup> annual
Native Planting 101 Workshop on Saturday February 24th at the Wenatchee Valley
College.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5xiNgHKCteU/WrQAz4yv1yI/AAAAAAAABj8/J9-ySkvDfHk4TM_UqNxdCUoF0JG9GWw5gCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1269.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5xiNgHKCteU/WrQAz4yv1yI/AAAAAAAABj8/J9-ySkvDfHk4TM_UqNxdCUoF0JG9GWw5gCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1269.JPG" width="320" /></a> This
workshop features local experts that present on the benefits and the importance
of incorporating native plants into landscapes, restoration projects,
pollinator gardens, and yardscaping. This year we reached our capacity with 45
participants. We received donations of cookies from Sure to Rise Bakery in
Cashmere, coffee from Starbucks, and apple slices from Crunch Pak in Cashmere.
Thanks to the support of these amazing local businesses we were able to offer
some delicious refreshments to all in attendance, making it a little easier to
stay inside on a sunny Saturday afternoon. During our workshop I had the
opportunity to speak with many people who were looking for ways to make their
properties more firewise. It was inspiring to see so many people who care not
only about their properties but about their communities and environment.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UEr1T-cqSX0/WrQAGPdoc9I/AAAAAAAABjw/7TEZqfFbWk8FZreZ1qwv4ufcQU5o8sdeACLcBGAs/s1600/P1010237.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UEr1T-cqSX0/WrQAGPdoc9I/AAAAAAAABjw/7TEZqfFbWk8FZreZ1qwv4ufcQU5o8sdeACLcBGAs/s320/P1010237.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yIE-Hj8lchw/WrQAAq7t13I/AAAAAAAABjs/6tFKu1Q6NH4EMkdkR7rSHRU5BQUWL0LXwCLcBGAs/s1600/P1010261.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-yIE-Hj8lchw/WrQAAq7t13I/AAAAAAAABjs/6tFKu1Q6NH4EMkdkR7rSHRU5BQUWL0LXwCLcBGAs/s200/P1010261.JPG" width="150" /></a> Following
the Native Planting Workshop I helped with our after school urban agriculture
program. For one of the final lessons with this group of 26 fourth graders, we
went to the Wenatchee Valley College greenhouse to plant some starts for salsa
container gardens they will take home in the spring. The kids had so much fun
exploring the greenhouse and planting their tomatoes, peppers, and onions.
After planting our seeds, we got to investigate some different invertebrates,
hydroponics, and vermicomposting. One student, Gabe, was inspired by the worms
from the vermicomposting project. At first he didn’t want to even touch a worm,
the idea of getting close to them made him squeal. After we talked about the
importance of worms (and that they don’t have teeth) Gabe ended up spending 15
minutes investigating the worms and was proudly holding more than 50 red
wigglers by the end, showing them off to his classmates with pride and
informing them on his recently learned worm facts.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Being
a part of a team involved in so many amazing programs that help educate and
inspire people of all ages is what I hope to be doing every day. Joining
Americorps and serving with Cascadia Conservation has been such an honor. Every
week I encounter a new challenge and meet new people who care about their
communities and the environment. I consider myself extremely fortunate because
of this opportunity.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I would like to thank Crunch Pak,
Starbucks, Sure to Rise Bakery, our Native Planting 101 presenters: Bob
Gillespie, Julie Sanderson, Ted Alway, and Connie Mehmel, and all of our
volunteers that have been crucial to the continued success of these programs.
The support, whether it is the time put in by our amazing volunteers or the
donation of goods by local businesses, shows just how much the people and
businesses care about our community, the environment, and one another. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xGR0lpute_0/WrQCX-aNUMI/AAAAAAAABkI/bMXd7VZ9OV4Vj8VYWgGXtX1SW8khlQOqgCLcBGAs/s1600/IMG_1351.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xGR0lpute_0/WrQCX-aNUMI/AAAAAAAABkI/bMXd7VZ9OV4Vj8VYWgGXtX1SW8khlQOqgCLcBGAs/s320/IMG_1351.JPG" width="320" /></a>If you are interested in getting
involved with Cascadia Conservation District as a volunteer, send me an email,
americorps@cascadiacd.org or call our office at 509-436-1601. You can also go
to our website and sign up to be a part of our volunteer team. Follow the link
below:<o:p></o:p></div>
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http://cascadiacd.org/volunteers_227.html<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-47548022172712690442018-01-22T14:56:00.000-08:002018-01-23T08:45:32.726-08:00Washington Agriculture<br />
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k-yhhiCuIuo/WmZh7gxuetI/AAAAAAAABiY/CEiG75S_pJQ98i8cm84oEsrZm8EomlQrQCLcBGAs/s1600/WSDAAgInfographic-WEB.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1036" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-k-yhhiCuIuo/WmZh7gxuetI/AAAAAAAABiY/CEiG75S_pJQ98i8cm84oEsrZm8EomlQrQCLcBGAs/s400/WSDAAgInfographic-WEB.png" width="258" /></a>As the new Americorps Intern at Cascadia Conservation District, I have taken over teaching our
environmental education programs, Wheat Week and the Water on Wheels, in the schools throughout Chelan, Douglas and Okanogan Counties. I
really enjoy being able to get out and teach these lessons, not only because
they are educating students about crucial environmental concepts, but also
because they are teaching the students about farming. Farming is something we have
become further removed from as the number of small family farms have decreased
across the country.<o:p></o:p></div>
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However there
is hope! In Washington, 89% of our farms are small farms. This is much higher
than the national average where only 49% of farms are considered small farms.
This impressive figure helps to bridge the gap between the production of food,
fuels, and fibers and the consumer. Being aware of what goes into the
production and the hard work, dedication, and care put in by farmers is
extremely important. This is one of the many concepts I try to teach and convey
to my students. It is not just going to the grocery store. I try to get them to
think on a larger scale.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Between
crops and livestock, Washington agricultural products were valued around $10.7
billion for 2015. That figure represents only the products that are grown and
raised here in Washington, it does not include the food processing industry
that is also crucial, contributing more than $20 billion to the economy. Apples
are a huge part of the agriculture industry here. Washington produces 70% of
the apples in the USA. Here in Wenatchee, the apple capital of the world, we
have rich volcanic soils combined with irrigation fueled by the Columbia River basin,
providing quality growing conditions for ample yields.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Farmers
are not just growing the food that will end up on our tables, they are growing
the fuel we use and the fibers we need. Farmers are crucial to our society and
we are lucky to have as many amazing farmers as we do in our state. We depend
on the agricultural industry not only to provide us with the food, fibers, and
fuel for our day to day lives but we also rely on them for environmental
stewardship, as they are caring for and managing many acres of land. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Taking
good care of the land is critical to farmers. They depend on healthy
productive lands to grow their crops and keep their operations sustainable into the future. By implementing environmentally sound
practices more commonly referred to as “Best Management Practices” or BMPs,
farmers are protecting our soil, water, and even the air we breathe. </div>
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If you are a famer and are
interested in making improvements to your land by implementing some more Best
Management Practices, check out our landowner assistance page on our website, http://cascadiacd.org/landowner-assistance_239.html
and see if any of the cost share programs might be for you and your land.
Contact Sandy Letzing at (509) 436-1601 or sandyl@cascadiacd.org if you have
any questions regarding the landowner assistance programs.<o:p></o:p></div>
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If you are missing the
amazing farmers markets that we have here in Washington, check out <a href="http://wafarmersmarkets.org/washingtonfarmersmarketdirectory/">http://wafarmersmarkets.org/washingtonfarmersmarketdirectory/</a>
for more information on where to find farmers markets during the year and look forward to the spring to come.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank you for reading, please
leave any comments, questions, or concerns below!<o:p></o:p></div>
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-Justine </div>
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<td height="1" width="330"><div style="text-align: right;">
<div style="text-align: right;">
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YNd32G_2hXI/WmZpo1g3ibI/AAAAAAAABjU/re4CtPC46agEPlgWZtx-zddDlieP0cX_gCLcBGAs/s1600/worldapple.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="349" data-original-width="362" height="305" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YNd32G_2hXI/WmZpo1g3ibI/AAAAAAAABjU/re4CtPC46agEPlgWZtx-zddDlieP0cX_gCLcBGAs/s320/worldapple.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><h3>
Did you Know?</h3>
<h3>
<br />The modern domestic apple originated from what is now Kazakhstan in the Tien Shan Mountains.</h3>
<div>
<br /></div>
<h3>
The only apple native to North America is the crab apple.</h3>
</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
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Works Cited<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://agr.wa.gov/aginwa/">https://agr.wa.gov/aginwa/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.appleorchardtours.com/hist14.htm">http://www.appleorchardtours.com/hist14.htm</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://theplate.nationalgeographic.com/2014/07/22/history-of-apples/">http://theplate.nationalgeographic.com/2014/07/22/history-of-apples/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/kazakhstan/7978486/Kazakhstan-the-home-of-the-apple.html">http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/asia/kazakhstan/7978486/Kazakhstan-the-home-of-the-apple.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://bestapples.com/washington-orchards/crop-facts/">https://bestapples.com/washington-orchards/crop-facts/</a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<td></td>
<td><br /></td></tr>
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Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-72533194648395526032017-12-18T15:18:00.000-08:002017-12-18T15:18:20.590-08:00Americoprs Story of Service<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q-ko36zVQXM/Wjf5fuyw3xI/AAAAAAAABiA/hHv_uKCkIs8o0Zu7yr9iFlvCNiy8biz2gCLcBGAs/s1600/teaching.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="171" data-original-width="229" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-q-ko36zVQXM/Wjf5fuyw3xI/AAAAAAAABiA/hHv_uKCkIs8o0Zu7yr9iFlvCNiy8biz2gCLcBGAs/s1600/teaching.png" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">I was drawn to Washington for the natural
beauty and the vast number of environmental education, conservation, and
research positions that are here in order to protect and ensure that future
generations will be able to experience and appreciate all that Washington has
to offer. I have always wanted to see Washington and the Cascades, I never
really imagined I would be able to live and serve here as a part of the team
working to improve and promote the environmental stewardship of these areas. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="mso-pagination: none; text-indent: .5in;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> I am serving through Washington Service Corps
as the Americorps Intern with Cascadia Conservation District in Wenatchee WA. A
portion of my service includes going out to schools across Chelan, Douglas, and
Okanogan counties to teach an environmental education program called “Wheat
Week” to 4</span><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 8.0pt;">th</span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> and 5</span><sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 8.0pt;">th</span></sup><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"> grade classes.
The program uses wheat as the teaching tool in order to talk about greater
environmental issues we face such as storm water runoff, pollution, erosion
& soil conservation, and energy production. I am extremely happy to be a
part of this program and have the opportunity to teach it, programs like this
one are the reason I moved from Wisconsin to Washington with Americorps.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wdiHPHmVeZI/Wjf5fqLnpbI/AAAAAAAABiI/QnvC_VJDjFQNaJImm3bho-iK6RHkaPi8gCLcBGAs/s1600/terrariums.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="238" data-original-width="317" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wdiHPHmVeZI/Wjf5fqLnpbI/AAAAAAAABiI/QnvC_VJDjFQNaJImm3bho-iK6RHkaPi8gCLcBGAs/s1600/terrariums.png" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">This past week I
got the chance to teach at Columbia
Elementary in Wenatchee. I met some awesome teachers and enthusiastic
future scientists (maybe)! The students here really looked forward to our daily
Wheat Week lessons, they could hardly wait to investigate their terrariums and
see how their wheat was changing and growing each day. Every day I would have
multiple students run up to me and show off the new roots growing or a stem
emerging from the little cup of soil. We recorded these observations in our
“Kernel Journals” every day. They are so excited that they remember the names
of the different parts of the plant that we labeled on the very first day, I
have never heard “look! root hairs” shouted with such enthusiasm before. They
took such pride in growing their terrariums and taking care of their wheat
plants.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">The vast majority
of the students I teach are far removed from farming and the ideas and issues
brought up during our Wheat Week lessons. When presented to them, these are awe inspiring</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"> for many of the students who have never realized how much work goes into
farming or the amount of effort that many farmers put into being responsible
stewards for their lands. At the very end of our week we write postcards to the
Washington Wheat Farmers. Reading through the postcards before I send them out
is one of my favorite things. The kids write about their favorite parts of
wheat week, tell the farmers what they learned, and ask questions about being a
wheat </span></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">farmer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2uWLI8c43b0/Wjf5ft7On9I/AAAAAAAABiE/pWr6U8758P4-MqXvMysT5HhO_IV8dNroACLcBGAs/s1600/postcard.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="203" data-original-width="290" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-2uWLI8c43b0/Wjf5ft7On9I/AAAAAAAABiE/pWr6U8758P4-MqXvMysT5HhO_IV8dNroACLcBGAs/s1600/postcard.png" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">Seeing the
excitement and the enthusiasm that the students have is what motivates me. I
see every classroom as an opportunity to advocate for and educate people about
the importance of preserving the natural world and the environment. There is
always a balance between us and the environment, which I do my best to explain
to the kids. I hope that maybe one of them will find an interest or passion for
environmental sciences and maybe someday help to solve some of the issues we
face.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">For
more information about Wheat Week, check out Franklin Conservation District’s
website!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;"><a href="https://www.franklincd.org/wheat-week">https://www.franklincd.org/wheat-week</a></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">If
you are interested in having this program at your school for 4<sup>th</sup> and
5<sup>th</sup> grade and you are located in Chelan or Douglas counties send an
email to </span><a href="mailto:americorps@cascadiacd.org"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt;">americorps@cascadiacd.org</span></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">. </span></div>
Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-36544792254987099712017-11-30T10:06:00.002-08:002018-01-23T14:19:33.721-08:00Are LEDs a Bright Idea?<!--[if gte vml 1]><v:rect id="_x0000_s1026" style='position:absolute;
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JgYWaaUNUKA/WiBIJDMTsxI/AAAAAAAABho/xiTPszqlC9Q2UKAEInJ9Ul-hUBSFFvv_gCLcBGAs/s1600/GreenBulbs.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="376" data-original-width="298" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JgYWaaUNUKA/WiBIJDMTsxI/AAAAAAAABho/xiTPszqlC9Q2UKAEInJ9Ul-hUBSFFvv_gCLcBGAs/s320/GreenBulbs.png" width="252" /></a></div>
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<span lang="en-US">As we settle into winter, the temperatures begin to drop, the sun starts setting earlier and our days get shorter and shorter. With the decrease in sunlight, we begin to rely more and more on our lightbulbs to make up for the shortened days and lack of natural light. LED bulbs are a great way to keep energy costs down and increase the efficiency of your home or business, making it more environmentally friendly. The Dept. of Energy (DOE) has conducted research into solid state lighting or SSL, which includes Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) and Organic Light Emitting Diodes or (OLEDs). According to the research done by the Dept. of Energy, “switching to SSL could reduce national lighting energy by 75% in 2035”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US"> LEDs or Light Emitting Diodes are the most efficient light bulb available on the market today. Using a semiconductor to convert electricity into light, they are able to use 95% of the energy they use to create light, wasting only 5%. This process decreases energy draw by around 80% when compared to incandescent light bulbs. Very little heat is lost from LEDs in comparison to incandescent bulbs, which can lose 90% of their energy as heat. The LED bulbs can actually benefit from cooler temperatures as well; the DOE found that they were 5% more efficient at -5 degrees Celsius than 25 degrees Celsius. Not only are LEDs better in terms of efficiency, but they last much longer than other light bulbs.Depending on the LED bulb, a good quality one will last 25,000 hours or more.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US"> If you have concerns regarding the variety, size, color or light quality, not to worry!! LEDs are one of the most compact lighting options available on the market, they are extremely durable, come in a number of colors and are very adaptable lighting options. The market is expanding as more and more people are making the switch to LEDs.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US"> Another benefit of these beautiful bulbs is that, unlike compact florescent lights, LEDs do not contain any mercury and do not need to be disposed of as hazardous waste. Though florescent lights are more efficient than the standard incandescent bulbs, they contain small amounts of mercury, less than 5 milligrams generally. However, even this tiny amount of mercury can poison thousands of gallons of water or pose a threat to people that come into contact with it. Despite the energy savings that the florescent bulbs presented, their disposal and the mercury they contained created another issue. The bulbs must be recycled at a facility that is qualified to handle florescent bulbs, which are limited. These bulbs should not be thrown out in the trash due to the mercury they contain. Mercury does not decompose or dissipate, it remains in the environment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vr683kmBKVQ/WiBIJaRvU9I/AAAAAAAABhs/E4Q0w0jmIZA8G5oG8zkZYCtR1yGbjE8XwCLcBGAs/s1600/LEDbulbs.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="362" data-original-width="479" height="150" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Vr683kmBKVQ/WiBIJaRvU9I/AAAAAAAABhs/E4Q0w0jmIZA8G5oG8zkZYCtR1yGbjE8XwCLcBGAs/s200/LEDbulbs.png" width="200" /></a><span lang="en-US"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US"> Generally, the upfront cost of LED bulbs is a little higher the florescent or incandescent; however, you will be saving money as they last far longer and are much more energy efficient. Consider LED bulbs a good investment for the winter, and one that will continue to benefit you for years to come. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">-Justine<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="en-US">Works Cited<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://energy.gov/energysaver/led-lighting"><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "calibri";">https://energy.gov/energysaver/led-lighting</span></a><span lang="en-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.12vmonster.com/blogs/product-questions/the-10-benefits-of-switching-to-led-light-bulbs"><span lang="en-US" style="font-family: "calibri";">https://www.12vmonster.com/blogs/product-questions/the-10-benefits-of-switching-to-led-light-bulbs</span></a><span lang="en-US"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-61880109016995335522017-11-07T11:32:00.001-08:002017-11-07T11:44:33.720-08:00Leaf them be<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z73glRPp-nQ/WgIHpW54_CI/AAAAAAAABg8/OT7ENHqeEXUGS_8JxZdik9KMSef3vOgygCLcBGAs/s1600/leaves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" data-original-height="501" data-original-width="752" height="213" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z73glRPp-nQ/WgIHpW54_CI/AAAAAAAABg8/OT7ENHqeEXUGS_8JxZdik9KMSef3vOgygCLcBGAs/s320/leaves.jpg" width="320" /></a>Now that the colors are changing and those leaves are
falling, many people are beginning the fall chore of raking their leaves, the
good news is that this isn’t necessary! Skip the raking and bagging and enjoy a
game of football or go for a hike instead. The leaves that you pack up and
leave curbside to go to landfills are filling up space in the landfills and
contributing to the production and release of methane, a formidable greenhouse
gas.<br />
<span style="text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;"><br /></span>
<span style="text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">According to the EPA landfills
accounted for 18% of the total methane emissions in the United States and
globally more than 60% of methane emissions are due to human activity. Methane
only makes up about 0.00017% of our atmosphere, which may make methane look
less important than it really is to us. The problem we face is how powerful
methane is, pound for pound the impact of methane is 25-28 times greater than
Carbon Dioxide over a 100 year period (EPA), this makes Methane the 2</span><sup style="text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">nd</sup><span style="text-align: center; text-indent: 0.5in;">
most important greenhouse gas behind Carbon Dioxide. We have made a difference
and we can continue to make a positive impact on our methane emissions, the
lifetime of methane is much shorter than that of Carbon Dioxide a primary
greenhouse gas. This shorter lifespan of atmospheric methane means that it can
be removed from the atmosphere via chemical reactions in 9-12 years, this means
that we can reduce the amount of methane in our atmosphere.</span></div>
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<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/TL2K_Oh4THM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/TL2K_Oh4THM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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When we place organic materials
into our landfills they undergo anaerobic decomposition, meaning they are not
exposed to oxygen while they decompose and thus produce methane. When
composting, our organic material experiences aerobic decomposition, breaking
down in the presence of oxygen. Because of this access to oxygen, carbon
dioxide (carbon from the organic material and oxygen from the air) is produced
rather than methane. Now this is still a greenhouse gas, but composting done
correctly has produces a negligible amount of greenhouse gasses when compared
to anaerobic decomposition that takes place in landfills. Plus we can reap many
benefits from our compost that we do not see when we take our leaves curbside for
the landfills. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a>Once your compost is ready, it can
be added to your soil and gardens as a replacement for chemical fertilizers.
Compost is rich in carbon and when distributed back into the soil, it not only
provides valuable organic material to your dirt but it also helps to sequester
carbon and create what is called a “sink” an area that takes in or absorbs
carbon from the atmosphere. If that is not enough of a reason to stop throwing
your leaves away and start mulching or composting, they can also help to reduce
your water bill! With the added organic matter from those leaves/compost,
happily absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere in your soil, they are
also increasing the soils capacity to hold and store water, reducing the need
or the frequency with which you have to water or irrigate your soil. It helps
to reduce soil compaction, making for wonderfully workable soils. The healthier
the soil, the less the risk of erosion as well, which will in turn help to
reduce the amount of sediments in our storm water <!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype
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the water quality.<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ydX1Qiir54I/WgIHq1H3mJI/AAAAAAAABhA/nDUjsmU_JxYAPWWM_XQMsdx7t5rqQFcsgCLcBGAs/s1600/composting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="522" data-original-width="508" height="200" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ydX1Qiir54I/WgIHq1H3mJI/AAAAAAAABhA/nDUjsmU_JxYAPWWM_XQMsdx7t5rqQFcsgCLcBGAs/s200/composting.jpg" width="194" /></a></div>
If you have a new found love of
composting or want to try it out this fall, our Urban Ag. program has some
great information for how to get started with composting in an urban setting.
Contact Sandy Letzing at <a href="mailto:SandyL@cascadiacd.org">SandyL@cascadiacd.org</a>
or call into the office at 509-436-1601 for more information or with questions
regarding composting.<br />
<br />
<br />
-Justine<br />
<br />
<br />
Works Cited:<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.nwf.org/en/Magazines/National-Wildlife/2015/OctNov/Gardening/Leave-the-Leaves">https://www.nwf.org/en/Magazines/National-Wildlife/2015/OctNov/Gardening/Leave-the-Leaves</a><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.globalmethane.org/documents/gmi_factsheet.pdf">http://www.globalmethane.org/documents/gmi_factsheet.pdf</a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/02/080225072624.htm">https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/02/080225072624.htm</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/reducing-impact-wasted-food-feeding-soil-and-composting"><span style="font-size: x-small;">https://www.epa.gov/sustainable-management-food/reducing-impact-wasted-food-feeding-soil-and-composting</span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
</div>
Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-35148498423327849022017-11-06T08:53:00.002-08:002017-11-07T08:02:46.881-08:00New Americorps Member<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Hello!! My name is Justine Bula and I am the new
Americorps Intern here at Cascadia Conservation. I have moved out to Wenatchee
for this position from Baraboo Wisconsin. I completed my undergraduate degrees
in Geography and Spanish with minors in Environmental & International
Studies at the University of Wisconsin La Crosse. My interest in the natural
world and the balance between environmental and humanitarian work are what
brought me to Americorps and are what inspired my undergraduate degrees. I have
a background in agriculture, growing up and helping to run our diversified
family farm back in Baraboo, WI. Travel is another passion of mine, and a part
of the reason why I have chosen to come to the beautiful Chelan County to
volunteer for the year. There is so much to see, experience, and learn about
the world and I am very excited to be able to join Cascadia Conservation
District and start my next adventure here in Wenatchee.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">-Justine</span></div>
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</div>
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<br /></div>
Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-56233146625012836722017-07-14T14:53:00.001-07:002017-07-14T14:53:28.114-07:00Farewell <div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">This past
year I have been able to volunteer with and lead a variety of restoration
events for the benefit of the environment. More recently I have been completing
the acreage required for the environmental stewardship portion of my
performance plan. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-104r8PxVaCs/WWk8y6lIBVI/AAAAAAAABgo/yGCHteBYnN88Iz0xRJ0wtgQdpEmHS5AoQCLcBGAs/s1600/19488581_10155099540874342_7832661541959277112_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-104r8PxVaCs/WWk8y6lIBVI/AAAAAAAABgo/yGCHteBYnN88Iz0xRJ0wtgQdpEmHS5AoQCLcBGAs/s320/19488581_10155099540874342_7832661541959277112_o.jpg" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">I assisted a work party of 10 individuals over three
weeks at Leavenworth’s Ski Hill, where we cleared brush and improved mountain
bike trails. The lead agency for the work we were doing was the Evergreen
Mountain Bike Alliance. We also assisted with pulling out non-native plant
species. I also had the opportunity to lead four weekly volunteer trail crews
at the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery. The hatchery received donations of
wood chips from the Chelan County Natural Resources Department. The Chumstick
Wildfire Stewardship Coalition organized a few days for free brush disposal at
the Dryden Transfer Station this past Spring, so all of the wood chips came from
those events. The chips had to be used within the apple maggot quarantine area,
so the hatchery was a great fit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Once we acquired the wood chips, we worked hard to
distribute them on the public access horse trails around the hatchery. I also
spent some time helping with maintenance efforts at a few of the sites that
Cascadia works on. One of the publicly accessible sites is the Cashmere Sportsman’s
Association club, where a restoration project has been ongoing for a few years.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> All of these
events have been a satisfying way to give back to the community that I have
called home for the last 11 ½ months. I’ve worked to remove tires from
embankments, planted dozens of native species in riparian areas, pulled noxious
weeds, improved and maintained bike and horse trails, and have educated the
public on the importance of native plants. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know
this area and hope to continue living here and appreciating everything this
valley has to offer. Thank you. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMoCTBt5hUs/WWk8ywJTKRI/AAAAAAAABgk/XdRq-1WItb4pnAImghZ4fRmzPluX1Th3ACLcBGAs/s1600/19620523_10155099540964342_3512567745223326102_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TMoCTBt5hUs/WWk8ywJTKRI/AAAAAAAABgk/XdRq-1WItb4pnAImghZ4fRmzPluX1Th3ACLcBGAs/s640/19620523_10155099540964342_3512567745223326102_o.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<o:p></o:p>Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-87767353689810252362017-06-02T14:17:00.001-07:002017-06-02T14:17:57.573-07:00Spring Festivities<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> Spring is our busiest time with
community outreach, due to the sunnier weather and the multitude of Spring
festivals. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: 12pt;">This year, I had the opportunity to attend
and provide outreach at the Entiat Swallowfest, Chelan Earth Day Fair,
Leavenworth Earth Day Community Fair, Entiat Earth Day at the elementary
school, Apple Blossom Youth Day, and Touch-a-Truck. Each festival varied in
size, but we reached 75-200 community members at each event. This year we
partnered with Team Naturaleza, which allowed us to bring kids arts and crafts
as well as educational material to each event.</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t_i6XenBzjc/WTHU0OPC_9I/AAAAAAAABgM/LIiZxQ7eqAoRQ_afbK7KzAIzcysHo_RkwCLcB/s1600/IMG_1985.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t_i6XenBzjc/WTHU0OPC_9I/AAAAAAAABgM/LIiZxQ7eqAoRQ_afbK7KzAIzcysHo_RkwCLcB/s320/IMG_1985.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> As a part of Earth Day, I reinvigorated
our district’s Earth Day essay contest. It was open to students in grades 6-8
and I had 37 students from three schools participate. This year’s theme focused
on encouraging the students to reflect on an experience they’ve had in nature
that inspires them to care for the Earth. The top three essay winners each
received student memberships to the Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural
Center, as well as hand painted nature journals from local naturalist Heather
Wallis Murphy. Prizes were presented at the Leavenworth Earth Day Community
Fair. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tIJRsLt79vc/WTHU2mM3aaI/AAAAAAAABgQ/dJl-IeCdxssDhHOlfkv6DcWELCuZbINdQCEw/s1600/FullSizeR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="600" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tIJRsLt79vc/WTHU2mM3aaI/AAAAAAAABgQ/dJl-IeCdxssDhHOlfkv6DcWELCuZbINdQCEw/s400/FullSizeR.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%;">
<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 150%;"> Educational outreach is critical to all
of our programs. For example, at the Chelan fair I had three groups of people
sign up for fire risk assessments for their properties, which is part of our
Firewise program. The festivals give us a chance to meet with and talk to the
community about all of the programs and services we have to offer. It also
gives us a chance to address any concerns or questions that individuals may
have. I have learned through the outreach that often times individuals do want
to help their land improve, thereby improving their environment, but they don’t
know where to begin. That is when we can help bridge that gap by connecting our
resource professionals to the concerns and problems facing a particular area. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-62070167483520136772017-04-24T15:12:00.002-07:002017-04-24T15:12:30.196-07:00Earth Day Winning Essay<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I feel
the warmth of the rising sun on my oversized T-shirt. My eyes are closed but I
can see what I want to see. I see myself standing on the rocks of the staggered
cliff, arms in the air, with a slight breeze combing through my messy brown
hair. I see the Columbia River with its gentle current at the bottom of a
series of large warm rocks that I just happen to be standing on. The water is
the brightest, most shocking blue I’ve ever seen. I see the park, our beautiful
park. And I see the world, or at least a small portion of it. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t want
what I see in my imagination to fade so I hesitate on opening my eyes, but I’ve
been here enough times to know that when I open my eyes, I won’t be
disappointed. My warm eyelids open to see what I imagined, but better. The
river is the kind of blue that makes you wonder if anything else should even be
considered a blue. The large trees on the other side of the water provide just
enough shade to attract a few families along the water line. Bikers and joggers
zoom behind me on the public trail. This… this is paradise. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I look down at
the my torn up sneakers, and at my blue bike with the chipped paint. There is
no other place on earth I would rather be. I mean the smell of a warm day is
just exhilarating. The buzz of bike tires whizzing by is more than a sound, it’s
a way of life, and as far as I’m concerned, that’s the only life for me. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This park, <i>our</i> park, in the small town of Wenatchee
is my favorite place on earth. That’s why I need it to stay here. That’s why I
want other people to see exactly what they imagined when they open their eyes.
I want that water to stay that blue, and I want the smell of a hot day to fill
the lungs of others the way it fills me with hope. I want the feeling of sun on
your back to become not only the feeling of warmth, but a mindset. And that’s
why I want to help in anyway I can with keeping our park beautiful, by picking
up trash, encouraging others not to litter, and staying confident that we can
change our world, no I said that wrong, and we <u>will</u> change our world for
the better. So let’s work together to keep our parks beautiful, and better yet
lets keep our world beautiful. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy Earth
Day, Scarlette.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ru-aOy2hYgo/WP52ppmBcMI/AAAAAAAABf4/tnUxzn4XZwkUVoA-0w7MPJskJgqEhvuegCLcB/s1600/Earth%2BDay%2BEssay%2Bcontest%2Bwinner%2B2017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ru-aOy2hYgo/WP52ppmBcMI/AAAAAAAABf4/tnUxzn4XZwkUVoA-0w7MPJskJgqEhvuegCLcB/s320/Earth%2BDay%2BEssay%2Bcontest%2Bwinner%2B2017.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Heather Murphy, Scarlette, and Ava Izdepski pose for a photo at the Leavenworth Earth Day Community Fair. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-15481578212215711232017-03-17T15:25:00.001-07:002017-03-22T12:53:00.540-07:00Community Supported Agriculture<div class="MsoNormal">
Community Supported Agriculture.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The idea is simple. Get community members to pay farmers the
cost upfront for receiving a weekly box full of the harvest’s bounty. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i_ZGlnOgDA8/WMxh0N28CgI/AAAAAAAABfQ/6J8Q8Z0EUxQ5bjPB7uDToaZQqYgQagiIQCLcB/s1600/9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-i_ZGlnOgDA8/WMxh0N28CgI/AAAAAAAABfQ/6J8Q8Z0EUxQ5bjPB7uDToaZQqYgQagiIQCLcB/s400/9.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Of course, there is a shared risk factor involved in
anything to do with farming. If a crop gets damaged or fails to produce
anything, the consumer and the farmer are both negatively impacted. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The original CSA format, promoted by Robyn Van En, called
for community members to participate in the labor on the farms using the share
model approach. Now, with more and more members joining from cities and
urban centers, there has been a shift to what is known as a subscription based
model.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the plus side, community members receive a substantial
amount of locally produced, farm fresh products that allow them to eat healthy
and cost-effectively. For the farmer, they receive money upfront, which helps
with their cash flow through the growing season. Also, they help build a
community bond with their neighbors by sharing what they do. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Benefits include local variety, introduction of new
vegetables, economic viability for the farmer, opportunity for a living wage
for farmers, local distribution of food (>100 mile radius) decreases
transportation and carbon costs, community celebrations like harvest festivals,
and donations of excess produce to food banks. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The subscription CSA model can involve a single farm, but it
is becoming increasingly common to have multiple farms participate. This way,
if a crop does not do well on one farm, the box can be supplemented with
produce from a different farm.One of the biggest challenges that CSA farmers face is in
getting land security for farms that are closest to urban centers.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On the consumer side, cost can be the biggest determining
factor. Asking individuals or families on tight budgets to submit a lump
payment, before the season begins, is not a feasible option. Some CSA’s are
tackling this problem by offering a sliding scale option that can even accept
SNAP benefits through certain USDA grants (Solomon). These are known as
Agriculture Supported Communities (ASC). (Celebrate CSA). The weekly payment
format is more accessible for low-budget families or for individuals on fixed
income. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Everyone wants to eat healthy, locally grown produce. The
issue is the cost and availability of such products. If you want to support
your local farmers, while also being sustainably healthy, look below for some
different choices. Spend time investigating the best fit for you and your
family. There are lots of options!<o:p></o:p></div>
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In the Wenatchee valley, here are some options for joining a
CSA:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://csa.farmigo.com/join/rhubarbmarket/2017">https://csa.farmigo.com/join/rhubarbmarket/2017</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.radixfarm.com/csa-membership.html">http://www.radixfarm.com/csa-membership.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.ohyeahfarms.com/csa/">http://www.ohyeahfarms.com/csa/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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If you’re in the Seattle area, check out <a href="http://www.seattletilth.org/about/stcsa">http://www.seattletilth.org/about/stcsa</a></div>
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Or visit <a href="http://www.pugetsoundfresh.org/find-csa">http://www.pugetsoundfresh.org/find-csa</a>
to find a CSA near you. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Farmer’s markets are a great choice as well, and may take
less time and money to participate in. </div>
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Below are some links to farmer’s markets
coming in to season soon:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://wenatcheefarmersmarket.com/">http://wenatcheefarmersmarket.com/</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://leavenworthfarmersmarket.org/market-calendar/">http://leavenworthfarmersmarket.org/market-calendar/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Cascadia Conservation District will be hosting a Backyard Gardening workshop on Saturday, April 15th. Come on over to the Community Education Garden to learn more about composting, gardening, and even backyard chickens!!!<br />
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WvhryjhUWRc/WNLV5iYKVaI/AAAAAAAABfg/RQBfNe69y9sU9anfNwgx4r07diYEc-w4gCLcB/s1600/Backyard_Workshop_17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WvhryjhUWRc/WNLV5iYKVaI/AAAAAAAABfg/RQBfNe69y9sU9anfNwgx4r07diYEc-w4gCLcB/s640/Backyard_Workshop_17.jpg" width="494" /></a></div>
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~ Ava</div>
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Works Cited</div>
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<span class="MsoHyperlink">"Community Supported Agriculture.” Complied by
AFSIC Staff, Alternative Farming Systems Information Center, National
Agriculture Library, U.S. Department of Agriculture. Reviewed Feb. 2017. </span><a href="https://www.nal.usda.gov/afsic/community-supported-agriculture">https://www.nal.usda.gov/afsic/community-supported-agriculture</a></div>
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Local Harvest. “Community Supported Agriculture.” <a href="http://www.localharvest.org/csa/">http://www.localharvest.org/csa/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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McFadden, Steven. “The History of Community Supported
Agriculture, Part II.” February, 2004. Rodale Institute Dig Deeper Blog. <a href="http://rodaleinstitute.org/the-history-of-community-supported-agriculture-part-ii/">http://rodaleinstitute.org/the-history-of-community-supported-agriculture-part-ii/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Rodale Institute. “Celebrate CSA Day with Rodale Institute.”
Dig Deeper Blog. 22 Feb. 2017. <a href="https://rodaleinstitute.org/celebrate-csa-day-with-rodale-institute/">https://rodaleinstitute.org/celebrate-csa-day-with-rodale-institute/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Solomon, Nicole. “CSA aims for affordability.” Mother Nature
Network. 26 Aug. 2009. <a href="http://www.mnn.com/your-home/organic-farming-gardening/stories/csa-aims-for-affordability">http://www.mnn.com/your-home/organic-farming-gardening/stories/csa-aims-for-affordability</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-1558165339856864102017-02-27T16:17:00.001-08:002017-02-27T16:17:22.603-08:00Earth Day Essay Contest <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jD47i1WPvMU/WLTAr-fHJYI/AAAAAAAABe4/_if56D1aNow05R8zXnIQiXanEkk4a96jACLcB/s1600/youthwriting-web-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jD47i1WPvMU/WLTAr-fHJYI/AAAAAAAABe4/_if56D1aNow05R8zXnIQiXanEkk4a96jACLcB/s320/youthwriting-web-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cascadia Conservation District is pleased to announce our
6th annual <b>Earth Day Essay Contest</b>! </div>
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The essay contest is open to
students who live or attend school in Chelan or Douglas counties and who are in
grades 6th-8th. <o:p></o:p></div>
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This year, the essay question is: </div>
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<b><i><span style="font-size: large;">Describe an experience you have had in nature, and how you connected
with that experience personally. How does that make you want to be more
environmentally responsible? </span></i><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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As students begin to think about this question, please
encourage them to consider their connection to nature and their local
environment. This activity is meant to encourage stewardship and integrate
creative thought and writing with science. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The top three essays will get hand painted field journals
created by local artist Heather A. Wallis Murphy and a student membership to
the Wenatchee Valley Museum and Cultural Center!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Here are the particulars:<o:p></o:p></div>
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•The essays should be 500 words or less, size 12 Times New
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• Typed essays are preferred, but hand written essays will
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• Word count should be included in the bottom, right corner
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• Essays must be turned in with completed entry form that can be found <a href="http://cascadiacd.org/files/documents/2017_Essay_Entry_Form.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.<o:p></o:p></div>
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• <b>Essays are due Friday April 7th, 2017. </b>Essays
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• Winners will be announced on our website and notified by
Saturday, April 22nd.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Submissions should be mailed or turned in to: <o:p></o:p></div>
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Cascadia Conservation District <o:p></o:p></div>
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14 N Mission St. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Wenatchee, WA 98801 <o:p></o:p></div>
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~ Ava</div>
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<o:p></o:p>Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-63338201466858790472017-02-14T11:00:00.001-08:002017-02-14T11:00:48.382-08:00Native Planting 101 Recap<br />
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Last Saturday, February 11th, Cascadia Conservation District, with the help of AmeriCorps member Ava, hosted a Native Planting 101 workshop. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AmeriCorps member Ava introducing speakers.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Connie Mehmel's Presentation </td></tr>
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It was a 4 ½ hour workshop with four presentations covering pollinator gardening, yardscaping, restoration, and weed management.</div>
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We had 46 adults attend, in addition to two volunteers and four speakers. </div>
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Our 2017 Native Plant Sale is still accepting orders through March 1st!</div>
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All 11 species are still available. </div>
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Download an order form <a href="http://cascadiacd.org/files/documents/2017_plant_sale_order_form_-_1107.pdf" target="_blank">HERE!</a></div>
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You can access some of the information presented on our website at <a href="http://cascadiacd.org/native-planting-101-workshop_335.html">http://cascadiacd.org/native-planting-101-workshop_335.html</a></div>
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<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: "georgia" , serif; font-size: 11.0pt;"><i>If you missed this year’s workshop, look for
next year’s workshop info in Cascadia’s winter newsletter.</i></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ted Alway's Presentation </td></tr>
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Listed below are some wonderful resources to get
you started on planning your natural yardscape:</div>
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<u><span style="color: #c45911; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Native Plants</span></u><o:p></o:p></div>
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<ul>
<li>Washington Native Plant Society <a href="http://www.wnps.org/">www.wnps.org</a></li>
<li>WTU Herbarium Image Collection: Plants and Lichens of
Washington <a href="http://www.biology.burke.washington.edu/herbarium/imagecollection.php">www.biology.burke.washington.edu/herbarium/imagecollection.php</a></li>
<li>USDA-NRCS Plants
Database <a href="http://www.plants.usda.gov/java">www.plants.usda.gov/java</a></li>
<li>Chalker-Scott, Linda. <i>Sustainable Landscapes and Gardens</i><i>: Good Science- Practical Application</i>.
GFG Publishing, 2009.</li>
<li>Fitzgerald, Tonie, Eve Carroll and Michael Terrell. <i>Landscaping with Native Plants in the Inland
Northwest.</i> Publication MISC 0267.
WSU Cooperative Extension, and
US. Dept. of Agriculture, 2000.</li>
<li>Kruckeberg, Arthur R.
<i>Gardening With Native Plants of the
Pacific Northwest</i>. University of Washington Press, 1996.</li>
<li>Link, Russell. <i>Landscaping for Wildlife in the Pacific
Northwest</i>.<i> </i>University of Washington Press, 1999.</li>
<li>Tallamy, Douglas W<i>.
Bringing Nature Home: How You Can Sustain Wildlife with Native Plants.</i>
Timber Press, 2007.</li>
<li>Taylor, Ronald J. <i>Sagebrush Country: A Wildflower Sanctuary.</i>
Mountain Press Publishing Company, 1992.</li>
</ul>
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<u><span style="color: #c45911; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Weeds<o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<ul>
<li>Washington State
Noxious Weed Control Board <a href="http://www.nwcb.wa.gov/">www.nwcb.wa.gov</a></li>
<li>Chelan County Noxious
Weed Control Board <a href="http://www.co.chelan.wa.us/noxious-weed">www.co.chelan.wa.us/noxious-weed</a></li>
<li>Washington Invasive
Species Council <a href="http://www.invasivespecies.wa.gov/">www.invasivespecies.wa.gov</a> </li>
<li>Burrill, Larry C.,
Steven A. Dewey, David W. Cudney, and B. E. Nelson. <i>Weeds of the West.</i> Western Society of Weed Science, 1999.</li>
</ul>
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<tr><td></td><td></td></tr>
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<u><span style="color: #c45911; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Yardscaping</span></u></div>
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<ul>
<li>WSU Gardening in
Washington <a href="http://www.gardening.wsu.edu/">www.gardening.wsu.edu</a></li>
<li>Plant Native How To
Naturescape Guide <a href="http://www.plantnative.com/how_intro.htm">www.plantnative.com/how_intro.htm</a></li>
<li>Weston, Shann. <i>Naturescaping: A Landscaping Partnership
with Nature</i>. Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, 2001.</li>
</ul>
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<u><span style="color: #c45911; font-size: 14.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Pollinator Gardening <o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<ul>
<li>The Xerces Society
for Invertebrate Conservation <a href="http://www.xerces.org/">www.xerces.org</a></li>
<li>Puget Sound Beekeepers Association <a href="http://www.pugetsoundbees.org/">www.pugetsoundbees.org</a></li>
<li>Natural Resources Conservation
Service Insects and Pollinators <a href="http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/plantsanimals/pollinate">www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/main/national/plantsanimals/pollinate</a></li>
<li>National Wildlife
Federation “Garden for Wildlife” <a href="http://www.nwf.org/Garden-For-Wildlife.aspx">www.nwf.org/Garden-For-Wildlife.aspx</a></li>
<li>Northwest Center for
Alternatives to Pesticides
<a href="http://www.pesticide.org/pests_and_alternatives">www.pesticide.org/pests_and_alternatives</a></li>
<li>Pollinator
Partnership Ecoregional Planting Guides <a href="http://www.pollinator.org/guides">www.pollinator.org/guides</a></li>
<li>US Forest Service
Gardening for Pollinators
<a href="http://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/pollinators/gardening.shtml">www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/pollinators/gardening.shtml</a></li>
<li>The Xerces Society<i>. Attracting Native Pollinators: Protecting
North America’s Bees and Butterflies.</i> Storey Publishing, 2011. </li>
</ul>
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~ Ava<br />
<br />Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-46852877727037091352017-01-20T16:27:00.001-08:002017-01-20T16:27:52.792-08:00Why Are Native Plants Important?<div class="MsoNormal">
Native plants are an integral part of a healthy landscape.
There are a number of reasons why that is, including but not limited to that
they are naturally low maintenance because they often require less water than
traditional sod. They do not require large amounts of
fertilizer or pesticides that plants from other places may need. If the plants are
native to your area, they have even coevolved with the wildlife as well. That means
that many native bird species also rely on native plants as a food
source.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eLg0BMs-5a8/WIFXWF3qGnI/AAAAAAAABd0/lzjPlpl-UacGeJx7gaKgYWjFzey66a3SACLcB/s1600/Native_plant_demonstration_garden_%252816478793148%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eLg0BMs-5a8/WIFXWF3qGnI/AAAAAAAABd0/lzjPlpl-UacGeJx7gaKgYWjFzey66a3SACLcB/s320/Native_plant_demonstration_garden_%252816478793148%2529.jpg" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 107%;">By Akos Kokai
(Native plant demonstration garden) [CC BY 2.0
(http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Non-native plants, otherwise known as invasive species, can
wreak havoc on a delicate ecosystem.</div>
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Below is a list of a few reasons why invasive plants are worse than native plants for your landscape.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DG_I31v2c9c/WIFYDjSyRFI/AAAAAAAABd8/yg79Pcapc38LExVl2-tKCoYSJ6ur0pFaQCLcB/s1600/invasives.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="379" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DG_I31v2c9c/WIFYDjSyRFI/AAAAAAAABd8/yg79Pcapc38LExVl2-tKCoYSJ6ur0pFaQCLcB/s640/invasives.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 107%;">http://solveoregon.org/why-we-care/invasive-plants<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b>Air, Noise, Water
Pollution <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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In terms of water conservation and the precious value that water is in an ever growing world, using water wisely is of paramount importance. Unfortunately, watering lawns can contribute to waste of a natural resource, “30 percent of water consumed on the East Coast goes to
watering lawns; 60 percent on the West Coast. (Redesigning the American Lawn)”
(National Wildlife Federation). Invasive species also require an increased amount of
pesticide use that can pollute waterways. </div>
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<b>Harm to Biodiversity <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Native plants also provide critical habitat to a variety of
pollinators. Certain insects have coevolved to only eat certain plants,
and if invasive species have taken over then there is less and less food for
those insects to eat. That in turn causes there to be less food for the birds that
feast on insects. Check out an excerpt of a film about the important impacts that native plants can have on a landscape:</div>
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<b>Consumption of
Natural Resources <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Invasive plants often outcompete native plants because they usually lack their natural enemies in a foreign environment. As a result, invasive plants can strangle a hillside or choke a waterway easily. Alternatively, native plants natural abundance is due in part to the fact that they
are native to your climate, and thus have adaptations for the amount of water
and the soil moisture in your particular area (Backyard Conservation...). <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b> Impacts to Public Health and Safety <o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Invasive species do require an increased amount of maintenance. Increased chemical use can lead to harmful effects in wildlife and humans (Benefits of Naturescaping). Extra fertilizer may also be required to maintain a green lawn. If you use native plants, and decide to compost in a natural garden, your soil will not
need as many chemicals to provide good nutrients to your plants!<br />
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<b>Cost and Labor Intensive
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The cost of upkeep for a traditional lawn is about $700 per
acre per year, as opposed to the care of a wildflower meadow at $30 per acre
per year (About Native Plants). The equipment used in the upkeep of a typical suburban lawn
includes lawn mowers, leaf blowers, and the occasional chain saw. These pieces
of equipment emit as much hydrocarbon in one hour as a typical auto driven 50
miles. (National Vehicle and Fuel Emissions Lab, Ann Arbor.) Every year, a
typical lawn requires 40 hours of maintenance, which is the equivalent of a
one-week vacation (Benefits of Naturescaping). The noise pollution from a lawnmower alone can be enough to
make anyone upset on an early Sunday morning.</div>
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<b>Boring Landscapes<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Avoid monoculture! Aesthetic concerns aside, native plants offer a wide variety
of shapes, colors, and textures for your yard.</div>
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Why spend all of that time maintaining an unnatural
landscape? Instead, give native plants a try. You won’t be disappointed!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Below is a preview of an excellent documentary film focused on the dangers of invasive species in Oregon. Washington state deals with a lot of the same resource problems as Oregon, and it is an informative piece on various issues in the Pacific Northwest. </div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/UkVNK4QtnFw/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/UkVNK4QtnFw?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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Convinced that native plants are the way to go? Don't know where to start? Come learn more at Cascadia's FREE Native Planting 101 Workshop!!!</div>
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RSVP today for our native plant workshop, Saturday,
February 11<sup>th</sup> from 12:00-4:30 pm at the Wenatchee PUD auditorium!</div>
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Our plant sale ends by March 1<sup>st</sup>, so place your
order today to ensure you get what you want. <o:p></o:p></div>
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To order native plants, download a form <a href="http://cascadiacd.org/files/documents/2017_plant_sale_order_form_-_1107.pdf" target="_blank">HERE!</a></div>
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Cheers!</div>
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~ Ava</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Works Cited</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">"About Native Plants." <a href="http://www.nwf.org/Garden-For-Wildlife/About/Native-Plants.aspx">http://www.nwf.org/Garden-For-Wildlife/About/Native-Plants.aspx</a>. National Wildlife Federation. Accessed 1/13/17. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<div>
"Backyard Conservation Tip Sheet." <a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/home/?cid=nrcs143_023590">https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/home/?cid=nrcs143_023590</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">“Benefits of Naturescaping.” <a href="http://www.plantnative.org/how_benefits.htm">http://www.plantnative.org/how_benefits.htm</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Green, Danielle. “Greenacres: Landscaping with Native Plants.”
US EPA. <a href="https://archive.epa.gov/greenacres/web/html/index.html">https://archive.epa.gov/greenacres/web/html/index.html</a> Last updated on 2/21/2016. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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Idaho Native Plant Society. Landscaping with Plants of the Intermountain Region. <a href="https://www.blm.gov/style/medialib/blm/id/publications.Par.71153.File.dat/Landscaping-small.pdf" style="font-family: inherit;">https://www.blm.gov/style/medialib/blm/id/publications.Par.71153.File.dat/Landscaping-small.pdf</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">“Let’s stop these silent invaders.” </span><a href="http://solveoregon.org/why-we-care/invasive-plants" style="font-family: inherit;">http://solveoregon.org/why-we-care/invasive-plants</a>. Accessed 1/13/17. </div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">“Why Native Plants Matter” Audubon society </span><a href="http://www.audubon.org/content/why-native-plants-matter" style="font-family: inherit;">http://www.audubon.org/content/why-native-plants- matter</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">. Bird Friendly Communities Blog. Accessed 1/13/17.</span></div>
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Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-74013742009124135412016-12-20T11:52:00.001-08:002016-12-20T11:52:19.094-08:00Winter is Here! <div class="MsoNormal">
This is my absolute favorite time of year. Why? Snow, of
course!<o:p></o:p></div>
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I think snow is fantastic. I love being in the snow and
being outside during the winter months. I enjoy sledding, skiing (downhill,
Nordic, and now backcountry), snowboarding, etc. I love it. Then there are the
sports that I want to try and haven’t experienced yet, like snowmobiling and
ice fishing! <o:p></o:p></div>
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We are lucky to live in an area that has such an abundance
of outdoor recreational activities available. The outdoors during winter can
also be especially dangerous though, for those who adventure unprepared. The
good news is that there are a multitude of ways to get more information about
snow data that can help predict weather and climate. <o:p></o:p></div>
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I’m personally a total data geek, and I wanted to talk about
some of the ways scientists can use data to measure different outcomes. The
information can be utilized for a few different pursuits ranging from water
resource management to backcountry skiing. This valuable
information can inform and empower a variety of stakeholders ranging from
mayors to private landowners to city planners. It’s called SNOTEL (Snowpack
Telemetry)! The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) has designed two
delightful infographics that highlight parts of the program. </div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-45kEE1crI9k/WFmG-fL_7cI/AAAAAAAABdQ/I462lyO4du8VsqXfrnS4CgBsKduBffnAACLcB/s1600/snotel1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-45kEE1crI9k/WFmG-fL_7cI/AAAAAAAABdQ/I462lyO4du8VsqXfrnS4CgBsKduBffnAACLcB/s640/snotel1.jpg" width="387" /></a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/water/snowsurvey/?cid=stelprdb1246667"><span style="font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 107%;">https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/water/snowsurvey/?cid=stelprdb1246667</span></a><u><span style="color: #0563c1; font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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Another way to predict weather can be from studying a climatic pheomena called ENSO (El Niño-Southern Oscillation.) Now, I am not a climate scientist so I do encourage you to check out</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5vfnhH1wv_U/WFmHF5iU6yI/AAAAAAAABdU/LK4GdM3rCjc1b5RuasRwAJYY2TInkM0ywCLcB/s1600/snotel2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5vfnhH1wv_U/WFmHF5iU6yI/AAAAAAAABdU/LK4GdM3rCjc1b5RuasRwAJYY2TInkM0ywCLcB/s640/snotel2.jpg" width="387" /></a></td></tr>
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<a href="https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/water/snowsurvey/?cid=stelprdb1246667"><span style="font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 107%;">https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/national/water/snowsurvey/?cid=stelprdb1246667</span></a><u><span style="color: #0563c1; font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"><a href="https://www.climate.gov/news-features/blogs/enso/what-el-ni%C3%B1o%E2%80%93southern-oscillation-enso-nutshell" target="_blank">https://www.climate.gov</a> </span></div>
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for more information. </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;">The video below explains the process of predictions and </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 16px;">some of the limitations that exist when trying to predict seasonal forecasting. </span></div>
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/BAFUG4bRRd0/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BAFUG4bRRd0?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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<span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">I can say, though, that the Earth is experiencing a
weak La Niña this year. The video below explains more about the predictions for
Winter 2016-17.</span></span></div>
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/KF8YwYUcB_E/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KF8YwYUcB_E?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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<span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="color: windowtext; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">If video isn’t your thing, here is an image outlining
the GENERAL trend that weather might show this year across the globe.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D1FBAJYizvw/WFmI0iroWDI/AAAAAAAABdc/lh2maolZT605EQ3m8YxZifSIRQ9JNVy0wCLcB/s1600/lanina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-D1FBAJYizvw/WFmI0iroWDI/AAAAAAAABdc/lh2maolZT605EQ3m8YxZifSIRQ9JNVy0wCLcB/s640/lanina.jpg" width="600" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 9.0pt; line-height: 107%;">https://www.climate.gov/sites/default/files/Nina_winterandsummer_620.jpg</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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If you notice, even in a weak La Niña year, the Northwestern
United States does tend to receive an increased amount of cool, wet weather.
This has led some to believe that there may be increased snowfall in the NW
associated with La Niña. I certainly hope so!</div>
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Cheers to a solid snowpack this winter, and Happy Holidays!<o:p></o:p></div>
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~ Ava <o:p></o:p></div>
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Works Cited</div>
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Dewitt, Dave. Predicting El Niño and La Niña Events. Online
video clip. YouTube. October 7, 2016. <a href="https://youtu.be/BAFUG4bRRd0">https://youtu.be/BAFUG4bRRd0</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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ENSO Blog. Science and Information for a Climate-Smart
Nation. <a href="https://www.climate.gov/news-features/department/enso-blog">https://www.climate.gov/news-features/department/enso-blog</a><u><span style="color: #0563c1; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;">. </span></u><o:p></o:p></div>
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<u><span style="color: #0563c1; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;"><br /></span></u></div>
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Gratz, Joel. “Whats a Snotel Site and How Does it Work?” <a href="http://www.onthesnow.com/news/a/584877/what-s-a-snotel-site-and-how-s-it-work-">http://www.onthesnow.com/news/a/584877/what-s-a-snotel-site-and-how-s-it-work-</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Halpert, Mike. NOAA Climate Prediction Center’s 2016-17
winter outlook. Online video clip. YouTube. October 20, 2016. <a href="https://youtu.be/KF8YwYUcB_E">https://youtu.be/KF8YwYUcB_E</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
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L’Heureux, Michelle.<span style="color: #2e74b5; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font: major-fareast; mso-themecolor: accent1; mso-themeshade: 191;"> </span>“<span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">What
is the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) in a nutshell?” May 5<sup>th</sup>,
2014. </span><span style="font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="https://www.climate.gov/news-features/blogs/enso/what-el-ni%C3%B1o%E2%80%93southern-oscillation-enso-nutshell">https://www.climate.gov/news-features/blogs/enso/what-el-ni%C3%B1o%E2%80%93southern-oscillation-enso-nutshell</a></span><span style="color: #333333; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Miller, Spencer. “Measuring the Value of Snow. March 14<sup>th</sup>,
2014. <a href="http://blogs.usda.gov/2014/03/14/measuring-the-value-of-snow/">http://blogs.usda.gov/2014/03/14/measuring-the-value-of-snow/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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NOAA National Centers for Environmental Information. “La Niña
Outlook, Impacts for Winter 2016-17.” <a href="https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/news/la-nina-outlook-impacts-winter-2016-17">https://www.ncdc.noaa.gov/news/la-nina-outlook-impacts-winter-2016-17</a><u><span style="color: #0563c1; mso-themecolor: hyperlink;"><o:p></o:p></span></u></div>
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NRCS National Water and Climate Center. “SNOTEL Data
Collection Network Fact Sheet.” <a href="http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/factpub/sntlfct1.html">http://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/factpub/sntlfct1.html</a><o:p></o:p></div>
Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-74643370675635428202016-12-08T15:01:00.000-08:002016-12-08T15:01:14.438-08:00Little Chumstick Creek Community Tire Clean-Up Day<div class="MsoNormal">
In the summer of 2016, a property was foreclosed adjacent to
Little Chumstick Creek. During the clean-up process, a non-local
contractor avoided dumping fees by disposing of 300-350 tires directly into
Little Chumstick Creek. After several months of frustrated neighbors
working with the bank that owns the offending property, and pressuring the
responsible contractor to remedy the problem, the neighborhood had little
success. During the recent implementation of a Cascadia Conservation
District stream restoration project on adjoining property, the neighbors
reached out to see if the CD could assist with removal and disposal of the
tires.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tires illegally dumped in creek</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Volunteers hauling tires out of creek</td></tr>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNrsT_Q9D-E/WEngTKpNdoI/AAAAAAAABcw/dk-Sei6Plugq7mskCMlbZ5-1-OASmDxSACLcB/s1600/blog4a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kNrsT_Q9D-E/WEngTKpNdoI/AAAAAAAABcw/dk-Sei6Plugq7mskCMlbZ5-1-OASmDxSACLcB/s320/blog4a.jpg" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AmeriCorps member Ava is keeping track of signing in volunteers</td></tr>
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Little Chumstick Creek is a tributary of Chumstick Creek,
which has been identified as critical steelhead and salmon habitat in the
Wenatchee River Watershed. Streams were re-opened to fish passage in 2012
after 13 fish barriers were removed and replaced with cast concrete
bridges. Following the barrier removal, endangered steelhead and spring chinook have increased use of the creek which offers protection to juveniles
during high water events in the Wenatchee River, and cold water for spawning
during peak summer temperatures. <br />
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Most of this ~15 mile watershed has been
utilized for agriculture throughout the 20<sup>th</sup> century, which has
resulted in severally degraded habitat throughout much of the watershed.
Cascadia Conservation District has partnered with Washington Department of
Ecology to make stream restoration a priority in the Chumstick watershed, and
this project area represents an excellent example of an area in need of
restoration and clean-up to improve habitat as well as water quality and
quantity.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdTxW9qvaT8/WEngTG3SOiI/AAAAAAAABcs/glLg_J8nQK8SG9xaSTJjQp6yNUwH9dfcwCLcB/s1600/blog4b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-rdTxW9qvaT8/WEngTG3SOiI/AAAAAAAABcs/glLg_J8nQK8SG9xaSTJjQp6yNUwH9dfcwCLcB/s320/blog4b.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Semi-trailer used to haul tires away from site</td></tr>
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The district hosts 1-2 volunteer clean up days in each of
the Chelan County Watersheds each year. Our efforts are directed towards
building relationships within the community we serve, as well as local by-in to
continue implementing restoration projects in the area. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QuXE_E3FNCE/WEngTTlSy_I/AAAAAAAABc0/tCcQqm2JNV4V0rEhlIwK6E4b05tS70dWgCLcB/s1600/blog4d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QuXE_E3FNCE/WEngTTlSy_I/AAAAAAAABc0/tCcQqm2JNV4V0rEhlIwK6E4b05tS70dWgCLcB/s400/blog4d.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crew after helping to remove tires from the creek</td></tr>
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On Saturday, December 3rd, Cascadia hosted the tire clean-up day. To make the clean-up possible, Chelan County Solid Waste
donated use of a 28 foot semi-trailer to haul out tires and pay for the cost of
disposal. We had about 18 volunteers attend the event and were able to remove
about 350 tires in only two hours! We look forward to continue making progress
in habitat restoration throughout Chelan County. </div>
<o:p></o:p>Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-19760561730949639502016-11-14T08:25:00.001-08:002016-11-14T08:25:55.809-08:00Clean Water Campaign<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TA0RrCEsYrc/WCni3ztGQ5I/AAAAAAAABb4/IlEPTN7j63gZ1w8tQ4R_IGQj8423KwjnwCLcB/s1600/CCCWC%2BLogo%2B-%2Bnew.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TA0RrCEsYrc/WCni3ztGQ5I/AAAAAAAABb4/IlEPTN7j63gZ1w8tQ4R_IGQj8423KwjnwCLcB/s640/CCCWC%2BLogo%2B-%2Bnew.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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This year, our
Picture Chelan County Photo Contest received 75 entries from 19 photographers.
The winning photographs are featured in our 2017 stewardship calendar. You can
purchase yours today for $10 at our office! <o:p></o:p></div>
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One of the goals of
the contest is to spread awareness about our clean water campaign. Chelan
County still has many water bodies that do not meet water quality standards. You can always access an updated water quality factsheet for the Wenatchee
River and its tributaries at <a href="http://cascadiacd.org/landowner-assistance_239.html">http://cascadiacd.org/landowner-assistance_239.html</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Clean water is
essential to healthy habitats for animals, as well as for clean drinking water
sources.</div>
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There are ways for
you to help! Below are just a few of the changes you can make to create a
better future for yourself, your family, your community, and your environment. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MQjlOR-KKN4/WCnjUA229vI/AAAAAAAABcI/trit-5DoTdQF3t6U49EeKBEf2sru1DyjACEw/s1600/House.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MQjlOR-KKN4/WCnjUA229vI/AAAAAAAABcI/trit-5DoTdQF3t6U49EeKBEf2sru1DyjACEw/s200/House.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b>In Your Home<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<i>Use low or no phosphorus detergents and soaps.</i> One pound of phosphorus can grow 700 pounds
of algae. Too much algae reduces the amount of oxygen available for fish and
aquatic life. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Conserve water!</i> Use it wisely. There is the same amount of
water on earth for all 7.5 billion of us. Only 1% of all of the water is fresh,
liquid water that we (humans) can use for drinking, cooking, and many other uses.
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<i>Properly maintain your septic system.</i> Without regular maintenance, septic systems
can fail or overflow. Spills or leaks from a septic tank can cause raw sewage
to pollute drinking water supplies and nearby rivers and streams. For more
information and a list of qualified service providers, contact the
Chelan-Douglas Health District at (509)886-6450 or visit <a href="http://www.cdhd.wa.gov/">www.cdhd.wa.gov</a>. Visit the USDA Rural Development website <a href="http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/Home.html">http://www.rurdev.usda.gov/Home.html</a> for information on septic system repair programs.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sjx1gwrK5z8/WCnjWNSvozI/AAAAAAAABcM/_BeGxtyUnL40r0fKCdnHuZBH4rh_vuAsACEw/s1600/Tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-sjx1gwrK5z8/WCnjWNSvozI/AAAAAAAABcM/_BeGxtyUnL40r0fKCdnHuZBH4rh_vuAsACEw/s200/Tree.jpg" width="172" /></a></div>
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<b>In Your Yard</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Many of us use
fertilizers, weed killers and pesticides to keep our lawns green and our
gardens productive. When we treat yard care as an all-out war, the ‘arsenal’ of
modern chemicals can take a toll on beneficial insects, wildlife and fish, not
to mention children and pets. When storm water flows over our yards and gardens
it takes pesticides, herbicides and fertilizers with it all the way to rivers,
lakes and streams. These chemicals poison wildlife and absorb oxygen from the
water. By using natural alternatives, such as compost, in place of chemical
fertilizers and limiting pesticide use to judicious, targeted applications, you
can have a beautiful backyard without causing collateral damage. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Keep Invasives at Bay.</i> Noxious, or invasive, plant species can
outcompete native plants. They can destroy native plant and animal habitat,
damage recreational opportunities and clog waterways. Controlling noxious weeds
is good stewardship and it’s the law. To learn more, consult the Chelan County
Noxious Weed Board (<a href="http://www.co.chelan.wa.us/noxious-weed">http://www.co.chelan.wa.us/noxious-weed</a>), the Washington State
Noxious Weed Control Board (<a href="http://www.nwcb.wa.gov/">www.nwcb.wa.gov</a>), or the Nature Conservancy (<a href="http://www.invasive.org/gist/esadocs.html">www.invasive.org/gist/esadocs.html</a>). Our native plant workshop will be a free informational event on
February 11<sup>th</sup>, 2017. If you are interested in purchasing native
plants, check out our native plant sale going on through March 1<sup>st</sup>,
2017: <a href="http://cascadiacd.org/files/documents/2017_plant_sale_order_form_-_1107.pdf">http://cascadiacd.org/files/documents/2017_plant_sale_order_form_-_1107.pdf</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Restore Riparian Areas.</i> Let us help you figure out how to create
healthier streamside habitat in the Wenatchee Valley. If you are a streamside
landowner, we may have funding to help create a project. Benefits of riparian
plantings and restoration projects include: bank stabilization, weed control,
shading, and flood attenuation, as well as providing habitat for fish and
wildlife. For additional information, contact Sandy Letzing at <a href="mailto:sandyl@cascadia.org">sandyl@cascadia.org</a> or (509) 436-1601.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>With Your Vehicles<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aOLpnuroBlU/WCnjXTSSMPI/AAAAAAAABcQ/0FQ_Hm9wMyAZHsBcFlAWyXB4sPb8rXkiACEw/s1600/Truck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="94" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aOLpnuroBlU/WCnjXTSSMPI/AAAAAAAABcQ/0FQ_Hm9wMyAZHsBcFlAWyXB4sPb8rXkiACEw/s200/Truck.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<i>Use a commercial car wash.</i> Washing your car at a commercial car wash
ensures that the pollutants like oil and other chemicals on your car go into a
sewer system and get treated at a wastewater treatment plant, instead of
washing directly into streams and rivers through storm drains. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Keep your car in working order.</i> Fix car leaks quickly and dispose of fluids
properly. Oil and other substances that leak from our cars onto roads,
driveways, and parking lots are washed into waterways by rain and melting snow.
That oil is toxic to people and wildlife. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>With Your Animals<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hJCJxGT9aV0/WCnjYoKeyfI/AAAAAAAABcU/VP6K3oho2okqnY0Eas_E34IndErh1oZWwCEw/s1600/Dog.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hJCJxGT9aV0/WCnjYoKeyfI/AAAAAAAABcU/VP6K3oho2okqnY0Eas_E34IndErh1oZWwCEw/s200/Dog.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<i>Keep livestock out of waterways.</i> A 1,400 pound cow and 1,200 pound horse
produce roughly 88 and 60 pounds of waste per day, respectively. Left exposed
to the weather, this manure can contribute problematic bacteria and nutrients
to nearby waterways. By fencing your livestock out of streams and properly
composting manure you can reap the benefits of this natural fertilizer without
negatively impacting water quality. For more information on livestock exclusion
fencing and manure management contact the Cascadia Conservation District at
(509)664-9370 or visit <a href="http://www.cascadiacd.org/">www.cascadiacd.org</a>. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Pick up after your pets.</i> Dogs and other pets produce waste with lots
of toxic bacteria. If that bacteria gets into the water, the water becomes
increasingly unsafe to drink for animals and humans. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Next year’s photo
contest launches May 1<sup>st</sup>, 2017 and closes October 1<sup>st</sup>,
2017. <o:p></o:p></div>
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To learn more about
water conservation in our community, look at <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://cascadiacd.org/chelan-county-clean-water-campaign_231.html">http://cascadiacd.org/chelan-county-clean-water-campaign_231.html</a> <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.chelanpud.org/conservation/water-conservation/indoor-water-conservation">http://www.chelanpud.org/conservation/water-conservation/indoor-water-conservation</a></div>
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~ Ava</div>
Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-60464232420326123312016-11-02T15:48:00.002-07:002016-11-10T15:38:35.732-08:00Environmental Education and STEM<div class="MsoNormal">
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""> A large part of
what I do at Cascadia is educate the youth in our district’s schools. Recently,
the city councils of Chelan and Wenatchee voted to join our district! This is
very exciting news for us, because it now means that the district may help in
all areas of Chelan County, no exclusions! In relation to my role, we have
traditionally still taught in school districts within the city limits of Chelan
and Wenatchee. Today I wanted to talk more about why environmental education is
important, what my history has been with environmental education, and how that
shapes what I want to do.</font-family:></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""> We’ve seen a
major push, in the last 10 years or so, towards STEM education. President
George W. Bush introduced the American Competitiveness Initiative in 2006 to
essentially double federal funding for STEM education in schools (Bush). In
2009, President Barack Obama introduced the Educate to Innovate initiative to
not only provide additional funding, but to also encourage businesses to
participate and be a part of STEM education (Educate to Innovate).</font-family:></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""> The increased focus and attention on STEM
education is not too surprising, considering the shift in our daily lives and
how much technology can play a role in it. Education can be slow to change, but
these initiatives are trying to speed up that process. I do believe everyone
should have access to the same education, but there are many barriers to that
goal. Public and private sectors are beginning to come together to face these inequities,
but there is still a long ways to go. Some examples include CoSTEM:<o:p></o:p></font-family:></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif="">"The </font-family:><span style="color: #7e5d8e; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/administration/eop/ostp/nstc/committees/costem">Committee on STEM Education (CoSTEM)</a></span><span style="color: #030a13; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">, </span>comprised of 13 agencies including all of the mission-science agencies and the Department of Education are facilitating a cohesive national strategy, with new and repurposed funds, to increase the impact of federal investments in five areas: 1) improving STEM instruction in preschool through 12th grade; 2.) increasing and sustaining public and youth engagement with STEM; 3.) improving the STEM experience for undergraduate students; 4.) better serving groups historically underrepresented in STEM fields; and 5.) designing graduate education for tomorrow's STEM workforce." (Educate to Innovate)<br />
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<a href="http://www.ed.gov/sites/default/files/stem-infographic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="342" src="https://www.ed.gov/sites/default/files/stem-infographic.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.ed.gov/stem"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 107%;">http://www.ed.gov/stem</span></a><span style="color: #333333; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 8.0pt; line-height: 107%;">.
“Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math: Education for Global Leadership.” <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif="">The nonprofit Changing the
Equation is backed by business and has support from the federal government.
Below are some figures of how data collected shows both inequities in resources
and how job opportunities are projected to change in the coming years in our
state:<o:p></o:p></font-family:></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P-dQVAvRvEU/WBpkiwJJTQI/AAAAAAAABbU/Bnt6-oRisoUl2kyFqYrEbW5n9y0A91dNQCEw/s1600/blog2a.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="303" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-P-dQVAvRvEU/WBpkiwJJTQI/AAAAAAAABbU/Bnt6-oRisoUl2kyFqYrEbW5n9y0A91dNQCEw/s400/blog2a.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 8pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""><a href="http://vitalsigns.changetheequation.org/state/washington/print">http://vitalsigns.changetheequation.org/state/washington/print<o:p></o:p></a></font-family:></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4spPEw1W6Lg/WBpkvNbN5BI/AAAAAAAABbU/R65AlKCvj0wqJ2g9mq9Cf6sikx6DZljMwCEw/s1600/blog2b.png" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4spPEw1W6Lg/WBpkvNbN5BI/AAAAAAAABbU/R65AlKCvj0wqJ2g9mq9Cf6sikx6DZljMwCEw/s400/blog2b.png" width="387" /></a></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 8pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""><a href="http://vitalsigns.changetheequation.org/state/washington/print">http://vitalsigns.changetheequation.org/state/washington/print</a><o:p></o:p></font-family:></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""> Before I began volunteering with the Ocean
Discovery Institute, they had just received an award from the Obama
administration for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics,
and Engineering Mentoring. Their mission is to “empower young people from
underserved urban communities to transform their lives, their community, and
our world as scientific and conservation leaders” (By Engaging In All Action).<o:p></o:p></font-family:></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oWAmbw2Bo7A/WBpla6oX6VI/AAAAAAAABbg/j53Pq0hGKKQwqyCNWFsGfHLs81cJ0h_mwCEw/s1600/blog2c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oWAmbw2Bo7A/WBpla6oX6VI/AAAAAAAABbg/j53Pq0hGKKQwqyCNWFsGfHLs81cJ0h_mwCEw/s400/blog2c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""> In my role, I volunteered in the Ocean
Science Explorers program. During my time there, I really enjoyed assisting the
students use tools like microscopes for the first time. We would take the
students on field trips to parts of San Diego to get them outside. When the
buses pulled up to the tide pools in La Jolla, the students were amazed to
explore the vast abundance of marine life literally in their backyard. Another
field trip was taking them to our headquarters, which was a series of trailers
in Pacific Beach. There we would allow the students to create their own robotic
hydroplanes and test their creations in the pool. Our goal was not just to
teach facts and figures, but to show the students what all of their efforts
could lead to. Our focus was to inspire them to imagine a career path in STEM,
which for many of the students would result in a vast departure from what other
members of their families may be doing or have done. <o:p></o:p></font-family:></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""> During my time at USD, I made an effort to
actively participate in social justice causes and try to experience something
different from what I knew. I reflected a lot on the differences between the
opportunities I have been exposed to, and how they differ from the opportunities
these students may have. I went to public school K-12, and had the opportunity
to take physics, calculus, AP Biology, AP Chemistry, and go to my community
college through Running Start if my school didn’t offer what I needed. Having
those classes prepared me to go on to a private school college education and
major in a degree that included several science courses. <o:p></o:p></font-family:></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""><br /></font-family:></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""> Being a self-proclaimed environmentalist,
I also must reflect on my hypocrisy on a daily basis. It’s easy to think that
our education system is doomed and that we’re using outdated techniques and
technology. However, I think there are a lot of reasons to be really positive
and optimistic! Sal Khan is the founder and director of Khan Academy, a web
based collection of YouTube videos that can be used to refresh a set of skills
or as a supplemental learning tool. It is one of the prime examples today of
what open source education can look like. <o:p></o:p></font-family:></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6779936861616412647" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><font-family: -0.3pt="" 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" letter-spacing:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif="">“We have all these doom-and-gloom arguments about
America losing its primacy and all this stuff about our math scores. But if you
take a serious look over the last 30 or 40 years, if you said, “What are the
most innovative companies in the world? Where is the innovation happening?” And
if you just follow and ask that question, year after year after year, it’s
getting more and more focused in America” (Education for Everyone). <o:p></o:p></font-family:></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""> With all of the advances in technology and
innovation happening, it’s time to realize how important science education can
be and how transformative it can be for students. With the conservation
district, I have the opportunity now to offer free science education lessons to
local schools. The curriculum is provided by the Franklin Conservation
District. I offer a week long option, aptly named Wheat Week, where I use Wheat
as a teaching tool to showcase lessons about soil conservation, the water
cycle, and watersheds. I also offer Water on Wheels lessons, which offer a
variety of environmental science lessons that are interactive and engaging to
students grades K-6<sup>th</sup>. <o:p></o:p></font-family:></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif=""> I really appreciate the opportunity to
bring science education to classrooms that otherwise might not get the chance
to explore the material in depth. Hopefully, even if they don’t retain the
information I teach them, it ignites a spark in them that motivates them to
want to take an interest in math, science, or engineering. I’m not teaching
robotics or molecular biology, but just getting our youth familiar and
comfortable with basic scientific concepts may actually allow them to seek out
advanced science education and not write it off as boring or too difficult. It’s
not a cure all, but it is a step in the right direction. <o:p></o:p></font-family:><br />
<br />
To learn more about STEM in Washington State, look at <a href="http://vitalsigns.changetheequation.org/state/washington/overview">http://vitalsigns.changetheequation.org/state/washington/overview</a></div>
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For more information about the programs I help implement through Cascadia, check out <a href="http://franklincd.org/wheatweek.aspx">http://franklincd.org/wheatweek.aspx</a> If you're a teacher in Chelan, Douglas, or Okanogan counties and want to have me come to your classroom, send me an email at cascadia-americorps@conservewa.net.<br />
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Thanks for reading!<br />
<br />
~ Ava</div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">Bush, George W. <i>American
Competiveness Initiative. </i>2 February 2006. </span><a href="https://georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/stateoftheunion/2006/aci/index.html"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;">georgewbush-whitehouse.archives.gov/stateoftheunion/2006/aci/index.html</span></a><span class="MsoHyperlink"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<font-family: 107="" 12pt="" arial="" font-size:="" line-height:="" quot="" sans-serif="">By Engaging in All Action with Curiosity and Commitment, We
Can Ignite a Passion in Each Person That Collectively Will Benefit Our World.
"Home." <i>Ocean Discovery Institute</i>. www.oceandiscoveryinstitute.org<o:p></o:p></font-family:></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">"Education for
Everyone: An Interview with Sal Khan."<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>McKinsey & Company.<span class="apple-converted-space"> September 2013.</span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><a href="http://www.mckinsey.com/industries/social-sector/our-insights/education-for-everyone-an-interview-with-sal-khan"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-decoration: none;">www.mckinsey.com/industries/social-sector/our-insights/education-for-everyone-an-interview-with-sal-khan</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">"Educate to
Innovate."<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span>The White House. The White House. </span><a href="http://www.whitehouse.gov/issues/education/k-12/educate-innovate"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%; text-decoration: none;">www.whitehouse.gov/issues/education/k-12/educate-innovate</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"> </span><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12.0pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">"Franklin
Conservation District." Franklin
Conservation District. </span><a href="http://franklincd.org/wheatweek.aspx"><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; text-decoration: none;">franklincd.org/wheatweek.aspx</span></a><span style="font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-39195514146398594712016-09-26T15:25:00.001-07:002016-09-26T15:27:22.080-07:00Cascadia's New AmeriCorps Member <br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Hello!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">My name is Ava Izdepski, and I am
the new AmeriCorps member serving at Cascadia Conservation District. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">I am originally from Edmonds. I went
to college at the University of San Diego, where I was an Environmental Studies
major. During my time in San Diego, I was a volunteer with the Ocean Discovery
Institute. While volunteering, I was given the chance to help teach
environmental education lessons to students in elementary schools. I recently
moved back to Washington to be closer to family.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I am looking forward to continuing to teach
environmental education with Cascadia, as well as participate in and bring
value to the other programs the district implements. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Since starting my term of service, I
have had the opportunity to demonstrate our Enviroscape model at the Chelan
County Fair, work at the Rolling Rivers display during Salmon Festival in
Leavenworth, and complete Wheat Week training in Quincy. I am very excited to
continue to learn and grow throughout this year of service. I look forward to
taking advantage of all the opportunities this area has to offer! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Thank you for viewing the blog and
be sure to stay in touch with questions and/or comments throughout the year. I
am looking forward to using the blog to encourage conversation about a variety
of topics. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;">Our Picture Chelan County Photo
Contest is still in full swing and accepting submissions until this Saturday,
October 1<sup>st</sup>. You can submit photos of Chelan County for six
categories including plants, wildlife, agriculture, recreation, landscapes, and
water. You can upload your photos to </span><a href="http://cascadiacd.org/photo-contest_347.html"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"><span style="color: #0563c1;">http://cascadiacd.org/photo-contest_347.html</span></span></a><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"> for a chance to be included in the 2017 natural resources
stewardship calendar! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "times new roman" , serif; font-size: 12pt;"></span><br />
~ Ava</div>
Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-57740461729341033222016-02-24T13:33:00.005-08:002016-02-24T15:47:44.455-08:00Let's Get (Native) Planting!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ldOiPKzxz-M/Vs4hSf-adHI/AAAAAAAABao/ON-ju_zWvx0/s1600/huck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ldOiPKzxz-M/Vs4hSf-adHI/AAAAAAAABao/ON-ju_zWvx0/s200/huck.jpg" width="131" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black Huckleberry</td></tr>
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Spring is definitely in the air- little bits of green life
are starting to make their brave entrance into the world, the piles of snow
that once towered are shrinking by the minute, and we at Cascadia are starting
to think about our springtime projects. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The main one I want to touch on today is our Native Plant
Sale and Workshop. This year we are offering nine different species of Native
Plants. These plants are grown from Eastern Washington seed stock by the
Washington Association of Conservation Districts Plant Materials Center in
Skagit County. Plants offered include Ponderosa Pines, Vine Maples, Black
Huckleberry and Red Osier Dogwood, among others. These plants are commonly used
for restoration, soil stabilization, and some are considered to be fire
resistant. A brochure describing the uses and benefits for each plant is linked
to our website, along with an updated plant listing, and order form. Plant
orders are due by March 4<sup>th</sup> and can be mailed into the Cascadia
Conservation District office with a deposit. Once ordered, you can pick up your
plants on April 16<sup>th</sup> from 10am to 1pm at the Stemilt Growers
Warehouse in North Wenatchee. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ARyefQjLfmY/Vs4hV9lAjYI/AAAAAAAABas/I3EExz9tN9I/s1600/Ponderosa_Pine_Pinus_ponderosa_needles_cones.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ARyefQjLfmY/Vs4hV9lAjYI/AAAAAAAABas/I3EExz9tN9I/s200/Ponderosa_Pine_Pinus_ponderosa_needles_cones.jpg" width="157" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ponderosa Pine</td></tr>
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If you are interested in ordering Native Plants, but have no
idea how to best utilize them on your property then you may be interested in
attending our Native Planting 101 Workshop. This FREE workshop is taking place on
March 5<sup>th</sup> from 12 to 4:30 pm at the PUD Auditorium on N. Wenatchee
Avenue. This workshop is perfect for landowners in our district who are
interested in learning techniques to effectively use native plant species to
encourage pollinators, restore damaged areas, and create a low maintenance yardscape.
It may be particularly useful for property owners who lost vegetation in last
summer’s fires or for those who are seeking to become more FireWise. The
workshop features presentations on Yardscaping, Pollinators, Restoration, and
Integrated Weed Control Methods by local plant and natural resource experts.
Workshop attendees will have an extended deadline of March 11<sup>th</sup> for
ordering plants from the Native Plant Sale. You can register for this free event
on our website!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvEcuWkuF5M/Vs4hYv9zInI/AAAAAAAABaw/-Nuj9moyWDY/s1600/Serviceberry-Tree2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bvEcuWkuF5M/Vs4hYv9zInI/AAAAAAAABaw/-Nuj9moyWDY/s200/Serviceberry-Tree2.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Serviceberry</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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If you are interested in either of these events you can find
more information on our website, cascadiacd.org. Our Native Plants are selling
out quickly, so if you haven’t already had a chance to make your plant
selections, I strongly urge you to do so as soon as possible! We are also
looking for more volunteers for both of these events- if you are interested in
volunteering send an email to <a href="mailto:americorps@cascadiacd.org">americorps@cascadiacd.org</a>. <o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
-McKenzie</div>
Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-9458575023488503272015-12-23T13:45:00.000-08:002015-12-23T18:21:53.164-08:00Let it snow!<div class="MsoNormal">
Continuing in the tradition of the last few years of
AmeriCorps blogs- I’m here to talk about snow! While the aforementioned element
of fire has strongly affected my life, of equal importance is the element of
water, specifically in the form of snow. As long as I can remember I’ve always
had a deep connection to snow. Winters growing up in the Entiat Valley were
always full of sledding, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing. After my family’s
home burnt down in 1994, we lived in a yurt while re-building on our property.
That was the winter of 1996-97, I was three years old and it snowed upwards of 5
feet. We couldn’t be happier as our yurt turned into an igloo and the landscape
found relief in the added moisture. When I was six years old, my mom woke me up
to show me that it had snowed overnight and I began to cry because I found it
so beautiful. And at 14, I fell in love with the sport of alpine skiing at
Mission Ridge and have been incredibly hooked on the sport since. I can’t quite
put my finger on it; what snow brings that is so magical. Perhaps it is the
peacefulness- the muffling of loud sounds, the necessity of moving slower
through our day’s errands. Perhaps it is the nostalgia of feeling like a child
again- the ageless feeling we get when playing in the snow. For me it is the
coldness of the air that brings a sense of clarity and the endorphins I get
from skiing, hiking, and playing in the snow. And obviously, it is the holidays
that bring us all together- the break from work and school, the importance of
reflection and gratitude we feel during this time of year. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1I7kUvg1v5E/VnsUYAWwRuI/AAAAAAAABaU/lzbzYRLCfdo/s1600/drought.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="306" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1I7kUvg1v5E/VnsUYAWwRuI/AAAAAAAABaU/lzbzYRLCfdo/s400/drought.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The percentage of area in drought status is still higher right <br />
now that it was one year ago.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Besides the joyous wonders of a white holiday season- the
effects of a snowy (or dry) winter last long into the summer. Last winter we
saw an incredible lack of snow and the ecological and economic effects of that
hit hard over the summer. The effects of the biggest wildfire ever in our state’s
history led to lack of tourism and loss of important infrastructure. The lack
of water led to a weakness in our defense against those fires, it was hard
hitting on orchardists and farmers, habitat for important species suffered, the
list goes on and on. Although we are
still currently in a drought- the Department of Ecology recently stated that the
Drought Emergency Declaration will be ending at the end of the year due to snow
levels being at or above 100% of normal for this time of year. For the
emergency declaration to be made water supply levels must be below 75%. The month
of December has been so good to our area with snow falling up high and a
mixture of rain and snow falling down low. I am eager to see where this El Nino
season takes us and am hoping that the trend of snow continues. And if it does,
I am eager to see the effects of that come summertime. <o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KX6hrb0j6-g/VnsUWlfh9TI/AAAAAAAABaQ/YNobqpCCH48/s1600/wa_swepctnormal_update.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="305" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KX6hrb0j6-g/VnsUWlfh9TI/AAAAAAAABaQ/YNobqpCCH48/s400/wa_swepctnormal_update.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our region is currently at 126% of normal <br />
snow water equivalent.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As a person whose happiness strongly depends on the ability
to ski in the winter months I will say that I’ve learned to do it while you
can. Mission Ridge is at ~70 inches of snowfall for the month, close to their
~100 inch December snowfall record. Who knows what the rest of the season will
bring us- hopefully more of the same, but possibly not. Until it changes, that’s
where you’ll find me (and a few others from the Cascadia office)! <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
As always thanks for stopping by, on behalf of the Cascadia
staff, we wish you a very joyous holiday season! Let me know in the comments what
your favorite part of a snowy holiday season is!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
-McKenzie<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Sources:<br />
ftp://ftp.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/data/water/wcs/gis/maps/wa_swepctnormal_update.pdf<br />
http://www.ecy.wa.gov/drought/index.html<br />
http://droughtmonitor.unl.edu/Home/StateDroughtMonitor.aspx?WA<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
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Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-2178388868768914462015-11-20T13:18:00.002-08:002015-11-20T13:30:51.070-08:00Living with Wildfire<span style="font-family: "calibri";">One of the most defining elements in my life has been
wildfire. It started at 18 months old, when my family’s home up the Entiat
Valley was one of thirty five destroyed by the Tyee Fire. While I have no memory of
that actual day, the scars from that fire are still very real. Growing up, it
meant that my first phrase was “burnt trees” and playing outside always ended
with charcoal covered clothes. Now, it means not having access to my parent’s
record collection, my dad’s climbing gear, old family photo albums. While
frustrating- I can quite easily live without those things. What I really
struggle with now, are the more frequent, higher intensity fires, and the
advances the fires have made into more populated areas and the Glacier Peak
Wilderness- my favorite playground. The thought of backpacking into places that
were once a wonderland but are now turned to a crisp, puts knots in my stomach.
It is a destruction that I have a really hard timing coming to terms with,
because it is so personal to me.</span><br />
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">One really powerful thing that growing up in an area that
has been so harshly affected by a natural disaster did to me, was allowing me to
witness and appreciate the rebirth. Looking across the valley outside my
parent’s front window (of the house they rebuilt a few years after the fire)
one person might only see the hundreds of blackened trees- but I see an equal amount,
if not more, 10-15 foot tall trees that have grown since. I literally got to
grow up at the same time as the plants in my valley- and that is pretty
special.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">Living in an environment where natural disaster is so
prevalent can definitely make someone want to give up- and usually around July
of every summer when the air is thick with smoke and plumes dot the horizon, I
do want to. However, I do believe it is a fight worth fighting- I am far too
connected to these landscapes to give up and walk away. In college, I fought
the fight by working for the Forest Service- my base job was working as a
member of the Recreation Crew- but in my second season I earned the
certifications needed to work at dispatch. That season and the next I worked 75
hours a week, with nearly zero days off, managing the equipment, crews,
supplies, and overhead personnel needed to fight the 500,000 plus acres of Central
Washington land that was on fire.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ugV94W1xI6c/Vk-MmAaaqbI/AAAAAAAABaA/E0Kiik4fWH0/s1600/squilchuck.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ugV94W1xI6c/Vk-MmAaaqbI/AAAAAAAABaA/E0Kiik4fWH0/s320/squilchuck.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">In my current position as an AmeriCorps doing environmental
education, I am fighting the fight by teaching future generations how to
understand and respect the fine balance needed to live in peace in a wildfire
ecosystem. Through the Wenatchee Valley Museum’s exhibit ‘Wildfires & Us’
and their educational program they have designed to go along with it, I have
the opportunity to teach 3<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">rd</span></sup>-10<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup> graders about wildfire
ecology and history in our area. An especially poignant moment each time that I
teach this lesson is when I hold up a section of a tree that was killed in the
Tyee fire and use it to explain the history of fire in our country. On this
tree cookie (a 4 inch thick section of a tree), you can clearly see the Pith of
the tree- when it was born in 1810- and all the subsequent tree lines that show
it survived eight fires between 1810 and 1929, and then was eventually killed
in 1994 by the Tyee fire. I explain to the students that because there were
semi-frequent, low-intensity fires in the first 119 years of its life, the tree
was able to survive. But due to the exclusion of fire in the later 65 years of
its life, because of policies developed following the 1910 Big Burn- like the
10 AM policy developed in 1935- ground and ladder fuels were allowed to build
up leading to the subsequent death of the tree in 1994. This is usually an
“ah-ha!” moment for many students and allows me to bring the lesson of wildfire
ecology full circle. We are teaching them that wildfire management is still
being developed- we thought we had the answer for the last century, but have
now realized that we were doing it wrong, and it is time to look for new
solutions. I strive to inspire the students to think about solutions to the
epidemic of overcrowded, weak, dying, and thus flammable trees. We talk about
Department of Ecology policy regarding controlled burns, Mountain Pine Beetle
infestations, and tactics to reduce fuels. My hope is that the students come
away with an understanding of the recipe for a firestorm, what a healthy forest
should look like, and a spark to the question of “what’s next?”</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I believe there is power in developing policy at a high
level in an effort to incentivize actions that would reduce risk of loss from
wildfire. But, I also strongly believe in the power of educating future
generations so that they grow up with an understanding of the issues and are
that much more motivated and prepared to work towards a solution when they
enter the workforce. It is apparent that the Wenatchee Valley realizes there is
a problem- and I look forward to seeing solutions arise in upcoming years!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">If you hadn’t had a chance to check out the Wildfires &
Us exhibit at the Wenatchee Valley Museum- today is the last day it is being
shown, and I strongly urge you to check it out. It combines the talented
photography of John Marshall and the extensive knowledge of Paul Hessburg and
is extremely informative about wildfire ecology historically and looking into
the future. Additionally, check out these amazing videos made by North 40
Productions that were shown at the Wildfires & Us Summit last week. They
detail last summer’s fires and the educational program at Squilchuck: https://vimeo.com/north40productions.</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">I would love to read your thoughts on the summit or exhibit
if you were able to attend, or attempt to answer any questions you might have
regarding life in a wildfire ecosystem. As always, thanks for stopping by!</span></div>
<div style="margin: 0in 0in 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">-McKenzie</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "calibri";"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: "calibri";">P.S. If you were affected by last summer's fires and are wondering what steps you should be taking now, on Tuesday, November 24th, at the Chelan Fire Station from 6:30-8:30, there will be an After the Fires Community Meeting. Representatives from local agencies as well as experts on post fire recovery will be present to answer questions. We hope to see you there!</span></div>
Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-58938277422930429822015-10-12T16:15:00.000-07:002015-10-13T09:38:12.889-07:00Engaging in Environmental Education!<div class="MsoNormal">
One of my main responsibilities as the AmeriCorps intern for
Cascadia is to provide environmental education in the district’s local schools.
Depending on a teacher’s schedule and planned curriculum, I get to spend
anywhere from 1-5 hours with a group of students aged 5-12. In that time I have
the opportunity to shape our valley’s young people’s understanding of
ecosystems and help them understand the ways in which humans can influence
those ecosystem functions. This is a responsibility I do not take lightly,
especially in a time where funding for education is getting tighter and the
need for a society with an understanding of our planet’s functions and needs is
becoming direr. And fortunately, through Cascadia’s partnerships with other
organizations and conservation districts, I have access to fun, free science
curriculum that incorporates hands-on learning opportunities in every lesson. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wGI0-3WjJQQ/VhwtyiryT5I/AAAAAAAABZc/q7xkYUcMGIg/s1600/wow.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="112" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wGI0-3WjJQQ/VhwtyiryT5I/AAAAAAAABZc/q7xkYUcMGIg/s320/wow.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Water on Wheels Lessons</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The main curriculum that I teach is called Wheat Week. This
is a five day program created by the Franklin Conservation District (FCD). Wheat Week uses the wheat plant as a tool to educate 4 <sup>th</sup> and 5<sup>th</sup>
graders about systems, water, soil, pollution, and energy. During this week,
students get to build their own terrariums and grow a wheat plant, experience
the water cycle as a water droplet, investigate the different types of soil,
create a watershed model, and thresh a wheat plant. Another program I teach,
also created by FCD, is called Water on Wheels. This program consists of eight
different lessons, which can be taught as a series or individually depending on
a teacher’s needs. These lessons educate students, in varying levels of depth
depending on their grade level, about soils, the water cycle, animal habitats,
and watersheds. Each lesson involves a different science experiment, game,
craft, or environment model. All of the FCD’s curriculums meet a number of
science and social studies Washington State learning standards. They also incorporate
GLAD strategies. GLAD – which stands for Guided Language Acquisition Design- is
a program that originated in California and is in its first phase in the
Wenatchee School District. It strives to “promote an educational setting that
produces effective, literate citizens of a global society.”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
I also have opportunities to work with local schools at
events like Salmon Fest where we host the Rolling Rivers exhibit, at the
Wildfires & Us Field experience put on through the Wenatchee Valley Museum,
and at Kids in the Creek where we work with our partner agencies to get kids
outside in the Entiat River doing science. Additionally, I coordinate Native
Planting 101 (planned for March 5<sup>th</sup>, 2016!) a workshop open to the
public, where anyone of any age can come and learn about effective landscaping
and plant care in the Wenatchee area. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My week of in-class training with the FCD is done and I am
currently filling my schedule in with lessons. If you are interested in
volunteering at an event, know a teacher who might interested in lessons, or
have a question, comment, or nugget of advice- all are welcome in my inbox (<a href="mailto:americorps@cascadiacd.org">americorps@cascadiacd.org</a>)!<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
Thanks for stopping by!<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
-McKenzie</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p>Resources:</o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://sites.google.com/a/conservewa.net/wheat-week/home/wheat-week-standards">https://sites.google.com/a/conservewa.net/wheat-week/home/wheat-week-standards</a><o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://begladtraining.com/">http://begladtraining.com/</a><o:p></o:p></div>
Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6779936861616412647.post-90316190862055243282015-09-23T11:03:00.000-07:002015-09-23T11:05:44.373-07:00A Sweet HomecomingGreetings! My name is McKenzie Selden, and I am the new AmeriCorps member serving at Cascadia Conservation District. I've spent my first half hour of work this morning looking back at previous members' blogs and have been thoroughly inspired and excited for the projects and challenges that will be coming my way this year.<br />
<br />
I hail from the tiny town of Entiat, about 15 miles north of Wenatchee on the highway, and then another 14 miles up a rural county road. It was a childhood filled with farm animals, dirty fingernails, backpacking trips into the Glacier Peak Wilderness, and homemade applesauce. Growing up here really instilled in me an appreciation for the natural, wild world and left me wondering what I could do to keep it that way. And so, when I found myself at Western Washington University, I chose to focus my studies on learning tactics for regulation of things contributing towards climate change. I also focused my learning on how to communicate the importance and immediacy of a need for action; I majored in Environmental Policy with a minor in Communication Studies.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: right;">
</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K-LikZd5dmE/VgLnoIOzf8I/AAAAAAAABZE/01-rnPsIxfE/s1600/costta.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-K-LikZd5dmE/VgLnoIOzf8I/AAAAAAAABZE/01-rnPsIxfE/s200/costta.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La Catarata de la Fortuna,<br />
Costa Rica</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My last semester of college was spent abroad, studying Sustainable Development with the School for Field Studies in Costa Rica. It was an amazing whirlwind of a semester where I learned how to think critically about tourism, was chased by capuchin monkeys, and made lifelong friends that taught me more, possibly, than any of my actual courses that semester. However, as a girl who lives for Eastern Washington winters, all I could think about at the end of the semester, was how badly I <em>needed</em> to ski. So, I (somewhat reluctantly) returned to the Wenatchee Valley with high hopes of being a ski bum- only to be met with the worst winter in my lifetime. Nonetheless, I worked at Mission Ridge and fell back in love with the valley. I spent my summer working my 3rd season for the Forest Service on a recreation crew and then for interagency dispatch once the fires took over.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_9npZZ3KAd0/VgLmFgoZ51I/AAAAAAAABY0/ZlQMrtE0ims/s1600/salmonfest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_9npZZ3KAd0/VgLmFgoZ51I/AAAAAAAABY0/ZlQMrtE0ims/s320/salmonfest.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Students from Entiat Elementary School<br />
create their own watersheds at Salmon Fest</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Heading into my first fall since I had graduated from college, I was still searching for my purpose in the valley. How would I make my time here valuable? That's when I saw the opening for this job. I had always planned on doing a year of service but I had no idea where, how, or when I would do it. Being the AmeriCorps for Cascadia has already served to be rewarding and nostalgic to me. I feel so fortunate to have the opportunity to serve the community that raised me, and perhaps to inspire the minds of young people growing up in this community right now.<br />
<br />
My first week, I participated in Salmon Fest where Cascadia hosts the Rolling Rivers exhibit. It was great to dive right into teaching and hands on activities with kids.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
One of my duties as the AmeriCorps is to update this blog, so thank you for reading! Please post any conservation related questions or topics you might be interested in reading about and I'll do my best to address them in upcoming posts!<br />
<br />
-McKenzie<br />
<br />
P.S. A quick reminder that there is only one week left in our Clean Water Campaign photo contest! Photos taken anywhere in Chelan County having to do with recreation, water, plants, wildlife, agriculture, or landscapes can be submitted for a chance to be included in our 2016 natural resources stewardship calendar. Submit your photos by October 1st at cascadiacd.org!Cascadia Conservation Districthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18226879474755137783noreply@blogger.com1