Work party

Celebrate National Public Works Week with us May 18-24, 2008. The celebration salutes the people who plan for, build and maintain some of our country's most valued infrastructure—roads, bridges, water and wastewater systems and treatment facilities. They make everything possible, from towns and cities to commerce and industry.

Join us at Washington Square this weekend, May 17 and 18 for the Public Works Fair. We'll have an informational booth featuring tips about how to live a watershed-friendly lifestyle. Handouts will include safe grease disposal, natural gardening, River Ranger giveaways for the kids and current information about our future water supply. We'll celebrate with Washington County's Department of Land Use and Transportation, Tualatin Valley Water District, Joint Water Commission, ODOT, Trimet and PGE.

Plast-ick?

Recent concerns have been raised about polycarbonate plastic water bottles and food containers and whether they are safe to use. Many of these hard, clear plastic containers contain an ingredient called bisphenol-a (BPA). According to the New York Times some animal studies have linked BPA to changes in the hormonal system and cancer. Nalgene, makers of plastic water bottles, have stopped using polycarbonate plastic because of the growing concern over BPA. The Oregon Environmental Council has made a list of plastics and how to identify which ones to avoid by their recycling number. Grist also has articles on the subject.

Livin' the stream life

Recent surveys show streamside property owners are passionate about the health of our local streams and the Tualatin River—and it shows. But while water quality has improved in the Tualatin River, new challenges have arisen and we all need to do our part. Streamsiders can now get a FREE copy of The Stream Care Guide: A Primer for Streamside Property Owners to help you enhance your property and protect your stream. Contact Ely Teragli via email or call (503) 681-4463 if you live on a stream in the Tualatin Basin.