Humans have used spider silk for a number of uses for a long time. The Roman encyclopaedic Pliny tells us that spider web is excellent for sealing wounds and this is true as far as I know.
It has certainly been used by many people since then. The answer may lie in both its immunity from microbial attack and its strange combination of softness and strength.
Many people through the ages have also used spider web silk to make clothes from. When woven it is both strong and light. Although the weaving of spider silk has never become a commercial proposition it is still carried on by a few traditionalists in places such as Madagascar.
Spider silk is known to have been woven by primitive peoples to make simple bags, such as those once used to carry arrow heads by the natives of the New Hebrides and as such must be a skill that has been practised for a long time.
Spider silk was also regularly woven more technologically advanced places like India and China where it was worn by the richest people only. In 1896 a Chinese delegation to Europe presented Queen Victoria with a spider silk gown.
Spider silk never had a chance to compete with silkworm silk because spiders are much more difficult to raise in large numbers and because their silk lacks the lustre of silkworm silk.
Spider silk has found other uses however, in the early nineteenth century a family of painters in Innsbruck made a name for themselves by painting on cloth of spider silk. One of the interests of this is that the silk is so thin the image can be equally clearly from both sides.
Primitive peoples have found ways of using spider webs other than weaving them. The literature of several European explorers contain references, sometimes quite detailed, to the use by various native peoples in the Austropacific area of spider webs to make nets, both for fishing and for catching butterflies.
These nets were either made from several webs collected across the fork of a branch, or by bending and tying off a branch to make a metre wide hoop and then encouraging a spider to spin a web within the hoop.
As a slight digression I must mention that man and spiders are not the only animals to find a use for spider silk. Birds also like spider silk, it is in some ways the perfect substance for binding up the materials that make a small birds nest.
In Africa, the Americas, Asia Australia and Europe there are birds who not only enjoy spiders as a tasty meal but who also rob them of their webs. Some Hummingbirds make ropes of spider silk to suspend their nests from, and others build their nests almost entirely from spider silk.
No discussion of spiders and man, even as brief a one as this, would be complete without mention of the giant figures dug into the earth 's surface 2,000 years ago by the by the Inca people of Nazca Peru. Among the many animals depicted is a spider. By far the largest spider image in the world this incredible piece of art is 50 metres or 160 feet across. Nobody really knows why it was created.
However this is not the oldest, spider image in the world, that record belongs to a splotchy image drawn by an unknown prehistoric artist on the wall of cave in Gasulla Gorge Spain. This painting is not only interesting because of its great antiquity, but also because the spider is attended by 6 smaller blotches that some people interpret as flies.
Since these ancient times, spiders have often featured in human art works and now it is not unusual to find modern art and jewellery representing spiders and their webs. You can now easily buy clothing and wall posters decorated with spider motifs.
Wednesday, April 2, 2008
10 Myths About Spiders
There have been many myths about spiders that have propogated through the ages. Here I will explain the truth with regards to the ten most popular spider myths.
Myth 1: The daddy-longlegs has the world 's most powerful venom, but fortunately its fangs are so small that it can't bite you. Fact: This is a fully-fledged urban legend, with no basis in fact whatever. It is so widespread that many people believe it who should really know better, including some teachers and TV documentary producers.
Three different unrelated groups are called "daddy-longlegs." Harvestmen have no venom of any kind. None at all! Same with crane flies. Pholcid spiders have venom (like almost all spiders) but there 's nothing special about it. In fact a recent study showed that pholcid venom is unusually weak in its effect on insects.
Myth 2: Spiders are insects. Fact: I find it amazing that a vast percentage of people actually believe this to be the case. How often, in mass media, do we read or hear a phrase like "spiders prey on other insects"? Spiders belong to the class Arachnida and insects to the class Insecta. Arachnids are as distant from insects, as birds are from fish. It really is not a trivial distinction!
Myth 3: All spiders make webs.Fact: Technically a web is not just anything a spider makes out of silk, it is a silk structure made to catch prey. The truth is that only about half of the known spider species catch prey by means of webs.
Others actively hunt for prey (including members of the wolf spider, jumping spider, ground spider, sac spider, lynx spider, and other spider families), or sit and wait for prey to come to them (trap door spiders, crab spiders, and others). What is true is that all spiders have the ability to spin silk.
Myth 4: You can always tell a spider because it has eight legs. Fact: Not exactly. scorpions, harvestmen, ticks, and in fact all arachnids (not just spiders) have four pairs of legs. Insects have three pairs. Also, notice that I said "four pairs" instead of "eight." The number of leg pairs (one pair per leg-bearing segment) is more significant than individual legs, which can be lost.
Myth 5: Most spiders could not bite humans because their fangs are too small. Fact: That may actually be true of a few of the smallest spiders. However, there are well-documented human bite cases from spiders as small as 3 millimeters long. (The bites caused no ill effects, of course!)
It 's not that spiders can't bite, but that they don't bite except very rarely. And even on those rare occasions the bite almost always has only trivial effects on the human, who after all weighs from one to several million times as much as the spider!
Myth 6: Spiders are easy to identify. Fact: No such luck! The world holds over 50,000 species of spiders classified into over 100 families. In your local area there are likely at least 30 families and a few hundred species. Even identifying a spider to family is no trivial task.
All the many published guides to spider families are so organized that a beginner will get it wrong about half the time. At species level, one needs an expensive microscope, a library of hundreds of separate books, monographs and articles, and a few years of experience to understand the many microscopic details that identify a spider, their similarities, differences and variation.
Myth 7: A deadly exotic spider has been found lurking under toilet seats in airports and airplanes. Fact: This urban legend began in August 1999 as a deliberate Internet hoax, disguised as a news story. The original version refers to a spider allegedly called Arachnius gluteus, or South American Blush Spider. Nothing mentioned in the story is genuine; there is no such spider, no such airport, no such medical association, no such doctor, no such restaurant, and no such aeronautics board.
In October, 2002 a new version of the same hoax surfaced. This one mentions a real species, the south Asian jumping spider Telamonia dimidiata, but it is still a hoax. A jumping spider is one of the least likely to be found in such a situation - they are sun-lovers and in any case are no more than mildly toxic to humans.
Myth 8: Tarantulas are dangerous or deadly to humans. Fact: Outside of Southern Europe (where the name is used for a wolf spider, famous in medieval superstition as the alleged cause of "tarantella" dancing), the word tarantula is most often used for the very large, furry spiders of the family Theraphosidae.
Hollywood is mostly to blame for these 's piders are toxic-to-humans' reputation. Tarantulas are large, photogenic and easily handled and therefore have been very widely used in horror and action-adventure movies.
When some "venomous" creature is needed to menace James Bond or Indiana Jones to invade a small town in enormous numbers, or to grow to gigantic size and prowl the Arizona desert for human prey, the special-effects team calls out the tarantulas! In reality, the venom of these largest-of-all-spiders generally has very low toxicity to humans.
Myth 9: Spiders can lay their eggs under human skin in wounds created by their bites. Fact: In a surprisingly widespread urban legend, a nameless woman is bitten by a spider (usually on her cheek) while on vacation. She later develops a swelling, from which baby spiders emerge!
Somehow or other, the venom must have transformed into eggs. Spiders do not find the human body a suitable site for egg laying and no actual case anything like this can be found anywhere in scientific or medical literature.
Myth 10: Some spiders are deadly. Fact: There is no spider species anywhere that can properly be called "deadly." Obviously a few people have died from spider venom, but there is no species anywhere on earth capable of causing death in humans in as much as 10% of cases, even if untreated.
If the person bitten obtains medical aid, death from genuine spider bite is almost unknown in North America and a decided rarity worldwide. Deadly spiders that can incapacitate you in minutes? Only in the movies!
Myth 1: The daddy-longlegs has the world 's most powerful venom, but fortunately its fangs are so small that it can't bite you. Fact: This is a fully-fledged urban legend, with no basis in fact whatever. It is so widespread that many people believe it who should really know better, including some teachers and TV documentary producers.
Three different unrelated groups are called "daddy-longlegs." Harvestmen have no venom of any kind. None at all! Same with crane flies. Pholcid spiders have venom (like almost all spiders) but there 's nothing special about it. In fact a recent study showed that pholcid venom is unusually weak in its effect on insects.
Myth 2: Spiders are insects. Fact: I find it amazing that a vast percentage of people actually believe this to be the case. How often, in mass media, do we read or hear a phrase like "spiders prey on other insects"? Spiders belong to the class Arachnida and insects to the class Insecta. Arachnids are as distant from insects, as birds are from fish. It really is not a trivial distinction!
Myth 3: All spiders make webs.Fact: Technically a web is not just anything a spider makes out of silk, it is a silk structure made to catch prey. The truth is that only about half of the known spider species catch prey by means of webs.
Others actively hunt for prey (including members of the wolf spider, jumping spider, ground spider, sac spider, lynx spider, and other spider families), or sit and wait for prey to come to them (trap door spiders, crab spiders, and others). What is true is that all spiders have the ability to spin silk.
Myth 4: You can always tell a spider because it has eight legs. Fact: Not exactly. scorpions, harvestmen, ticks, and in fact all arachnids (not just spiders) have four pairs of legs. Insects have three pairs. Also, notice that I said "four pairs" instead of "eight." The number of leg pairs (one pair per leg-bearing segment) is more significant than individual legs, which can be lost.
Myth 5: Most spiders could not bite humans because their fangs are too small. Fact: That may actually be true of a few of the smallest spiders. However, there are well-documented human bite cases from spiders as small as 3 millimeters long. (The bites caused no ill effects, of course!)
It 's not that spiders can't bite, but that they don't bite except very rarely. And even on those rare occasions the bite almost always has only trivial effects on the human, who after all weighs from one to several million times as much as the spider!
Myth 6: Spiders are easy to identify. Fact: No such luck! The world holds over 50,000 species of spiders classified into over 100 families. In your local area there are likely at least 30 families and a few hundred species. Even identifying a spider to family is no trivial task.
All the many published guides to spider families are so organized that a beginner will get it wrong about half the time. At species level, one needs an expensive microscope, a library of hundreds of separate books, monographs and articles, and a few years of experience to understand the many microscopic details that identify a spider, their similarities, differences and variation.
Myth 7: A deadly exotic spider has been found lurking under toilet seats in airports and airplanes. Fact: This urban legend began in August 1999 as a deliberate Internet hoax, disguised as a news story. The original version refers to a spider allegedly called Arachnius gluteus, or South American Blush Spider. Nothing mentioned in the story is genuine; there is no such spider, no such airport, no such medical association, no such doctor, no such restaurant, and no such aeronautics board.
In October, 2002 a new version of the same hoax surfaced. This one mentions a real species, the south Asian jumping spider Telamonia dimidiata, but it is still a hoax. A jumping spider is one of the least likely to be found in such a situation - they are sun-lovers and in any case are no more than mildly toxic to humans.
Myth 8: Tarantulas are dangerous or deadly to humans. Fact: Outside of Southern Europe (where the name is used for a wolf spider, famous in medieval superstition as the alleged cause of "tarantella" dancing), the word tarantula is most often used for the very large, furry spiders of the family Theraphosidae.
Hollywood is mostly to blame for these 's piders are toxic-to-humans' reputation. Tarantulas are large, photogenic and easily handled and therefore have been very widely used in horror and action-adventure movies.
When some "venomous" creature is needed to menace James Bond or Indiana Jones to invade a small town in enormous numbers, or to grow to gigantic size and prowl the Arizona desert for human prey, the special-effects team calls out the tarantulas! In reality, the venom of these largest-of-all-spiders generally has very low toxicity to humans.
Myth 9: Spiders can lay their eggs under human skin in wounds created by their bites. Fact: In a surprisingly widespread urban legend, a nameless woman is bitten by a spider (usually on her cheek) while on vacation. She later develops a swelling, from which baby spiders emerge!
Somehow or other, the venom must have transformed into eggs. Spiders do not find the human body a suitable site for egg laying and no actual case anything like this can be found anywhere in scientific or medical literature.
Myth 10: Some spiders are deadly. Fact: There is no spider species anywhere that can properly be called "deadly." Obviously a few people have died from spider venom, but there is no species anywhere on earth capable of causing death in humans in as much as 10% of cases, even if untreated.
If the person bitten obtains medical aid, death from genuine spider bite is almost unknown in North America and a decided rarity worldwide. Deadly spiders that can incapacitate you in minutes? Only in the movies!
Sea Temperature Surprise For Monaco
Global warming and rising tea temperatures aren't playing to the script that environment campaigner Prince Albert of Monaco might have expected, according to recently released figures.
Since becoming Soverign of Monaco, Prince Albert has let it be known that the environment is a major concern of his, and early on in his reign made a visit to the North Pole to highlight global warming, and he has established a foundation to study among other things, ironically sea temperatures.
Rising sea temperatures is seen as a major contributor to the ice caps melting, and is seen as a controversial part of the green campaign on climate change as some scientists argue that sea temperatures would take hundreds of years to rise as a direct result of human activity. Quite what Prince Albert will make of the findings on his own doorstep isn't known yet.
The Mediterranean waters off Monaco caused concern four years ago in 2003 when the water temperature reached 28 degrees centigrade - 82 degrees farenheit - but this year saw temperatures cool considerably to 23 centigrade in July and 24 in August. Two other warm years apart from 2003 were 2001 and 2006.
Commenting on the findings, a local Monaco travel guide states 'There doesn't appear to be a consistent rise over the years in the water temperatures, and they vary year by year, sometimes rising, sometimes falling - which would appear fairly natural rather than anything that could be seen as particularly alarming with a need for action. Should temperatures rise consistently for a few years in succession perhaps that would indicate something really is going on in the Mediterranean around Monaco.'
An example of Monaco taking the environment seriously is the annual Monaco Yacht Show. To attain carbon neutral status last year, the organisers sponsored various projects in Europe and further afield to offset carbon emissions generated by the show. The show paid for wind turbines In New Zealand, generating enough electricity for 45,000 homes and in Brittany France paid for a heath to be planted with chesnut and oak trees to protect water catchments and provide a recreational area, while in the USA paid for a methane capture system, reducing the amounts being emitted by some 95 per cent.
The leadership for the move to a greener State has come from Sovereign Prince Albert, who has been successfully campaigning among world leaders since his inauguration two years ago to move the environment up the political agenda, and it has brought the issue to the fore at home.
Prince Albert signed the country up for the Kyoto Protocol shortly after becoming Sovereign, and a few months later left behind the comfort and glamour of his palace and Casino Square for the wilds of Antartica to see for himself the damage being caused to the glaciers because of global warming. Upon his return he established the foundation with his own money to study the impact of rising sea levels, and since then has been active in the attempts to publicise the need to cut CO2 emissions in the industrialised world.
In recent months he has met both Prince Charles and ex President Chirac of France to discuss global warming. Close to the Fontvieille harbour where the yacht show takes place, a new island is to be built, and the bidders have been told that a successful application must be environmentally friendly, and some proposals indicate that the island will be a floating one to avoid any disruption or damage to marine life.
Prince Albert has been active at the UN too, and is involved with a campaign to plant a billion new trees which is being welcomed by environmentalists. But like the sea temperatures, that hasn't been without controversy either, with a warning by some that in certain regions it could do more harm than good. While the campaign claims that each tree uses up 26 pounds of co2 emissions and in return produces enough oxygen for a family of four, planting the right trees is important to help the world improve her ecological and environment balance.
Since becoming Soverign of Monaco, Prince Albert has let it be known that the environment is a major concern of his, and early on in his reign made a visit to the North Pole to highlight global warming, and he has established a foundation to study among other things, ironically sea temperatures.
Rising sea temperatures is seen as a major contributor to the ice caps melting, and is seen as a controversial part of the green campaign on climate change as some scientists argue that sea temperatures would take hundreds of years to rise as a direct result of human activity. Quite what Prince Albert will make of the findings on his own doorstep isn't known yet.
The Mediterranean waters off Monaco caused concern four years ago in 2003 when the water temperature reached 28 degrees centigrade - 82 degrees farenheit - but this year saw temperatures cool considerably to 23 centigrade in July and 24 in August. Two other warm years apart from 2003 were 2001 and 2006.
Commenting on the findings, a local Monaco travel guide states 'There doesn't appear to be a consistent rise over the years in the water temperatures, and they vary year by year, sometimes rising, sometimes falling - which would appear fairly natural rather than anything that could be seen as particularly alarming with a need for action. Should temperatures rise consistently for a few years in succession perhaps that would indicate something really is going on in the Mediterranean around Monaco.'
An example of Monaco taking the environment seriously is the annual Monaco Yacht Show. To attain carbon neutral status last year, the organisers sponsored various projects in Europe and further afield to offset carbon emissions generated by the show. The show paid for wind turbines In New Zealand, generating enough electricity for 45,000 homes and in Brittany France paid for a heath to be planted with chesnut and oak trees to protect water catchments and provide a recreational area, while in the USA paid for a methane capture system, reducing the amounts being emitted by some 95 per cent.
The leadership for the move to a greener State has come from Sovereign Prince Albert, who has been successfully campaigning among world leaders since his inauguration two years ago to move the environment up the political agenda, and it has brought the issue to the fore at home.
Prince Albert signed the country up for the Kyoto Protocol shortly after becoming Sovereign, and a few months later left behind the comfort and glamour of his palace and Casino Square for the wilds of Antartica to see for himself the damage being caused to the glaciers because of global warming. Upon his return he established the foundation with his own money to study the impact of rising sea levels, and since then has been active in the attempts to publicise the need to cut CO2 emissions in the industrialised world.
In recent months he has met both Prince Charles and ex President Chirac of France to discuss global warming. Close to the Fontvieille harbour where the yacht show takes place, a new island is to be built, and the bidders have been told that a successful application must be environmentally friendly, and some proposals indicate that the island will be a floating one to avoid any disruption or damage to marine life.
Prince Albert has been active at the UN too, and is involved with a campaign to plant a billion new trees which is being welcomed by environmentalists. But like the sea temperatures, that hasn't been without controversy either, with a warning by some that in certain regions it could do more harm than good. While the campaign claims that each tree uses up 26 pounds of co2 emissions and in return produces enough oxygen for a family of four, planting the right trees is important to help the world improve her ecological and environment balance.
Drought Management - Survival In The Dry
Dealing with extended drought conditions can be a daunting affair. Not knowing when a drought will break not only tests farmers, the general community in towns and cities is also affected by subsequent water restrictions and higher food prices.
Drought And Hobby Farm
The hobby farmer is mostly insulated from the financial effects of drought since it is not the main source of income. However, personal pride and a desire to see the farm develop, rather than deteriorate into a dry and unappealing place to spend time, is enough incentive to be proactive in the face of drought conditions.
Special consideration is also required when farm animals are present. The presence of shelter and ample drinking water is paramount if animals are to be comfortable during hot and dry conditions.
Some tactics I have currently employed on my farm are outlined below. As well, general strategies for the future are also mentioned.
Soil Cultivation For Hobby Farming
When planting young trees and shrubs, ensure the soil is cultivated to reduce competition from weeds growing close to the seedlings. Deep ripping of the planting area also helps any rain to penetrate within the root zone of the seedling. Combined with heavy mulching around the seedling, it will have a greatly increased chance of surviving. Water storing crystals as well as products that enable water to penetrate water repellant soils are also available. Protection from strong hot winds will also reduce evaporation of moisture from around plants. Polymer films that are sprayed onto leaf surfaces can also be used in order to reduce evaporation from plants. These synthetic polymers are currently used when transplanting established plants as a measure to reduce transplanting shock.
Established plants may need to be pruned in order to reduce the level of transpiration from leaf surfaces. Young fruiting trees should have any fruit removed and not be fed with fertilizers which encourage tender growth.
Balanced Fertilizer
Fertilizers containing high levels of nitrogen should be used sparingly; however, a balanced fertilizer at the correct time-usually spring and autumn may be used with care. Foliar sprays extracted from an organic source such as seaweed are useful as they contain a range of micronutrients that strengthen plant cells. Plants treated in this manner are better suited to survive extreme conditions as the cell walls within plant tissues become thicker and stronger.
Long- term climatic trends are hard to predict, however, consideration needs to be given to issues such as climate change. I have planted native windbreak trees that generally have a lower rainfall requirement than currently received in our region. Should there be a general term trend towards reduced rainfall these plants once established should cope well. In the event of increased rainfall over subsequent seasons after a drought however, there may be problems due to an excess of water given that these types of plantings are normally suited to dry or very well drained soils.
Crops Selection
Selecting vegetable crops that have a shorter growing season, often the case with dwarf varieties will save on precious water. Ensuring the soil is well managed and carefully cultivated in order to protect its structure will allow plant root systems to become quickly established. Long term plantings such as fruiting trees and palms need to be carefully reviewed and not planted until conditions improve.
In extreme cases some plants will need to be sacrificed. More common plants and those that can be easily and quickly replaced may need to be removed in order to reduce competition for water. The most efficient methods of irrigation that deliver water close to the root system of the remaining plants also needs to be employed.
Water Harvesting System For Hobby Farm
Drought proofing my farm in the long term will also require an effective water harvesting system. Expenditure on tanks and soil contouring in order to channel excess moisture to storage areas will need to occur. This process will be constrained by the available finances, but should prove worthwhile in the long term.
This article is taken from Alf 's Hobby farm site at My Hobby Farm. Alf also writes in details on Small Farm Irrigation as well as farm machiney and implements covering Tractors, Tillers and cultivators.
Drought And Hobby Farm
The hobby farmer is mostly insulated from the financial effects of drought since it is not the main source of income. However, personal pride and a desire to see the farm develop, rather than deteriorate into a dry and unappealing place to spend time, is enough incentive to be proactive in the face of drought conditions.
Special consideration is also required when farm animals are present. The presence of shelter and ample drinking water is paramount if animals are to be comfortable during hot and dry conditions.
Some tactics I have currently employed on my farm are outlined below. As well, general strategies for the future are also mentioned.
Soil Cultivation For Hobby Farming
When planting young trees and shrubs, ensure the soil is cultivated to reduce competition from weeds growing close to the seedlings. Deep ripping of the planting area also helps any rain to penetrate within the root zone of the seedling. Combined with heavy mulching around the seedling, it will have a greatly increased chance of surviving. Water storing crystals as well as products that enable water to penetrate water repellant soils are also available. Protection from strong hot winds will also reduce evaporation of moisture from around plants. Polymer films that are sprayed onto leaf surfaces can also be used in order to reduce evaporation from plants. These synthetic polymers are currently used when transplanting established plants as a measure to reduce transplanting shock.
Established plants may need to be pruned in order to reduce the level of transpiration from leaf surfaces. Young fruiting trees should have any fruit removed and not be fed with fertilizers which encourage tender growth.
Balanced Fertilizer
Fertilizers containing high levels of nitrogen should be used sparingly; however, a balanced fertilizer at the correct time-usually spring and autumn may be used with care. Foliar sprays extracted from an organic source such as seaweed are useful as they contain a range of micronutrients that strengthen plant cells. Plants treated in this manner are better suited to survive extreme conditions as the cell walls within plant tissues become thicker and stronger.
Long- term climatic trends are hard to predict, however, consideration needs to be given to issues such as climate change. I have planted native windbreak trees that generally have a lower rainfall requirement than currently received in our region. Should there be a general term trend towards reduced rainfall these plants once established should cope well. In the event of increased rainfall over subsequent seasons after a drought however, there may be problems due to an excess of water given that these types of plantings are normally suited to dry or very well drained soils.
Crops Selection
Selecting vegetable crops that have a shorter growing season, often the case with dwarf varieties will save on precious water. Ensuring the soil is well managed and carefully cultivated in order to protect its structure will allow plant root systems to become quickly established. Long term plantings such as fruiting trees and palms need to be carefully reviewed and not planted until conditions improve.
In extreme cases some plants will need to be sacrificed. More common plants and those that can be easily and quickly replaced may need to be removed in order to reduce competition for water. The most efficient methods of irrigation that deliver water close to the root system of the remaining plants also needs to be employed.
Water Harvesting System For Hobby Farm
Drought proofing my farm in the long term will also require an effective water harvesting system. Expenditure on tanks and soil contouring in order to channel excess moisture to storage areas will need to occur. This process will be constrained by the available finances, but should prove worthwhile in the long term.
This article is taken from Alf 's Hobby farm site at My Hobby Farm. Alf also writes in details on Small Farm Irrigation as well as farm machiney and implements covering Tractors, Tillers and cultivators.
Micro-Environments - What The Plant Doctor Ordered
Plant culture aims to create the best growing conditions for crops. In order to achieve the best results farmers make small-scale changes to the growing conditions for plants.
Microclimates
Small-scale changes create modified climates called micro-climates or modified environments called micro-environments. Features such as temperature, humidity, moisture levels, sunlight and soil acidity can all be changed resulting in better growing conditions for plants.
Plant nursery operators regularly advise customers about the best way to look after a plant. For example, the location and type of soil will have a big influence on the level of success a gardener will achieve with any particular plant. In essence, gardeners are being advised on how to create the best microenvironment for that plant.
Keeping in mind the optimum requirements for a crop, the next challenge comes when providing the required conditions in a practical way. Matching the correct growing season when planting will help to provide the broad climatic needs for the plant.
Wind, Sunlight, Soil ...
Local conditions can then be modified further by making changes to factors such as exposure to wind, sunlight and humidity. Farm structures such as buildings will provide a range of environments allowing a wider range of plants to be grown successfully.
North facing walls in the southern hemisphere trap more sunlight and heat creating a warmer microclimate
Concrete or brick walls and paths will also radiate heat at night keeping a frost prone area warmer. Shelter spots behind walls and under trees will provide protection from excess heat in summer and suit plants requiring cooler conditions. The shape and density of windbreaks will also change the way in which wind moves around these structures. A solid brick wall for example will cause wind to swirl, while a more open structure composed of shade cloth or plant vegetation will provide a more gentle flow of air.
Frost Damage
Planting on hillsides will allow for an increase or decrease in the level of sunlight received depending on the aspect or direction chosen.
Hillside plantings generally have a reduced incidence of frost during cold weather. Locations near the sea or lakes will also have a reduced risk of frost damage due to the moderating influence of water on temperature.
Inland locations will usually have a wider range of temperature changes between day and night and may need more changes to the microenvironment for success.
Soil microenvironments
Soil cultivation and general cultural activities such as the application of organic matter, lime and gypsum will improve soils in relation the specified crop. Deep ripping of soil before planting trees will also break up compacted soils and rock layers allowing improved penetration of water and plant roots. These activities usually result in improvements to the soil microenvironment and lead to better plant growth.
Water and irrigation management, often necessary for summer crops, modifies levels of moisture and air in soil. Should there be an excess of moisture in winter provisions for drainage may be required modifications in order to prevent soil waterlogging and damage to plant roots.
Microenvironment And Hobby Farming
The range of modifications is endless and often takes time to achieve. Getting the right mix of microenvironments requires experience and patience. There is always a level of uncertainty regarding weather and climate, disasters will always occur, but good management can reduce these risks.
Getting the microenvironment right is well worth the effort. You will be rewarded with a wider range of healthy plants that may not normally grow in your area.
This article is taken from Alf 's Hobby farm site at My Hobby Farm. Alf also writes in details on Greenhouse and Small Farm Irrigation.
Microclimates
Small-scale changes create modified climates called micro-climates or modified environments called micro-environments. Features such as temperature, humidity, moisture levels, sunlight and soil acidity can all be changed resulting in better growing conditions for plants.
Plant nursery operators regularly advise customers about the best way to look after a plant. For example, the location and type of soil will have a big influence on the level of success a gardener will achieve with any particular plant. In essence, gardeners are being advised on how to create the best microenvironment for that plant.
Keeping in mind the optimum requirements for a crop, the next challenge comes when providing the required conditions in a practical way. Matching the correct growing season when planting will help to provide the broad climatic needs for the plant.
Wind, Sunlight, Soil ...
Local conditions can then be modified further by making changes to factors such as exposure to wind, sunlight and humidity. Farm structures such as buildings will provide a range of environments allowing a wider range of plants to be grown successfully.
North facing walls in the southern hemisphere trap more sunlight and heat creating a warmer microclimate
Concrete or brick walls and paths will also radiate heat at night keeping a frost prone area warmer. Shelter spots behind walls and under trees will provide protection from excess heat in summer and suit plants requiring cooler conditions. The shape and density of windbreaks will also change the way in which wind moves around these structures. A solid brick wall for example will cause wind to swirl, while a more open structure composed of shade cloth or plant vegetation will provide a more gentle flow of air.
Frost Damage
Planting on hillsides will allow for an increase or decrease in the level of sunlight received depending on the aspect or direction chosen.
Hillside plantings generally have a reduced incidence of frost during cold weather. Locations near the sea or lakes will also have a reduced risk of frost damage due to the moderating influence of water on temperature.
Inland locations will usually have a wider range of temperature changes between day and night and may need more changes to the microenvironment for success.
Soil microenvironments
Soil cultivation and general cultural activities such as the application of organic matter, lime and gypsum will improve soils in relation the specified crop. Deep ripping of soil before planting trees will also break up compacted soils and rock layers allowing improved penetration of water and plant roots. These activities usually result in improvements to the soil microenvironment and lead to better plant growth.
Water and irrigation management, often necessary for summer crops, modifies levels of moisture and air in soil. Should there be an excess of moisture in winter provisions for drainage may be required modifications in order to prevent soil waterlogging and damage to plant roots.
Microenvironment And Hobby Farming
The range of modifications is endless and often takes time to achieve. Getting the right mix of microenvironments requires experience and patience. There is always a level of uncertainty regarding weather and climate, disasters will always occur, but good management can reduce these risks.
Getting the microenvironment right is well worth the effort. You will be rewarded with a wider range of healthy plants that may not normally grow in your area.
This article is taken from Alf 's Hobby farm site at My Hobby Farm. Alf also writes in details on Greenhouse and Small Farm Irrigation.
How to Plant Evergreens
North, South, East or West - no matter where you live - there are evergreens for every garden. The luxuriance of their foliage, the different shades of green, their variety of forms, textures, and heights contribute lavishly to the planting design. Indeed, like old friends, they can always be depended on to give us real enjoyment through the years. Their easy upkeep, permanence, and the all-year-round green they provide make them all-important in garden-making.
In making a planting plan it is very important to select the right evergreen for the allotted space. This can hardly be overemphasized. For instance, avoid using tall-growing trees or shrubs directly in front of a window. All too often one sees houses literally smothered with towering evergreens placed in just such a location, shutting out the vista, the air, and the light. Furthermore, a planting of this kind spoils the architectural lines of the house, whereas actually one of the purposes of the planting is to set off these lines to best advantage.
Bear in mind the shape of the evergreen selected, and visualize how it will fit into the general planting scheme. Evergreens have definite forms, use the pyramidal and columnar types sparingly; in fact, these are especially adapted for accent purposes, and where space permits they are sometimes well placed each side of a doorway. The globular kinds are very distinctive, and they should also be used with much thought. Evergreens with a bushy habit of growth and the creeping species, such as some of the Junipers, can be used more freely than those with more formal lines.
Another factor that should be considered is whether the planting is to be made in the sun or in the shade. There are evergreens that thrive in every location, and it is an easy matter to find the right plant for the available situation. Some of those that are shade-tolerant include such favorites as Laurel, Oregon Holly-grape, Holly Olive, Cherry-laurel, and the evergreen species of Privet.
If your builder has given you an allowance for purchasing plant material, you are then a free lance. In spending this sum it is much wiser not to attempt to stretch the planting over too extensive an area, but rather to make each part perfect in itself. Be sure to buy your trees and shrubs from reliable sources. A good buyer looks over the plants carefully to make certain that each one is compact and vigorous.
It is important not to introduce too great a variety of evergreens in the planting scheme, but rather to have each kind well represented, otherwise the planting would be too heterogeneous, which would give a confused effect. This does not apply to plants that are columnar or globular in shape. These should be used sparingly.
Take care of the key planting first of all; this is usually along the foundation of the house. Evergreens are unsurpassed for tying the house to the ground; they give an exceptionally handsome setting - in fact they bring about a real metamorphosis. A touch of deciduous material introduced into the evergreen planting gives a light note. It adds interest and beauty because of the contrast in habit of growth and color of foliage that it provides. Flowering shrubs which are conspicuous for their blooms, berries, and autumn coloration are excellent for this purpose.
Along the boundary of the place a combination of the taller-growing and lower-growing evergreens gives more complete seclusion than any other kind of plant material, and provides an all-year-round line of demarcation. The taller-growing kinds are excellent for the background, and the dwarf types are used as facers.
In many suburban communities houses are built on small lots. Under these conditions landscaping is often difficult. When a good neighbor policy can be adopted, this sometimes turns out to be a solution to the problem of restricted space for garden-making. By co-operating in a plan with your next-door neighbor a landscape effect can be developed that will be of mutual benefit. This can be done by treating the two places as a unit in developing the planting plan. The result will be a more spacious, open garden.
Have fun with your gardening!
In making a planting plan it is very important to select the right evergreen for the allotted space. This can hardly be overemphasized. For instance, avoid using tall-growing trees or shrubs directly in front of a window. All too often one sees houses literally smothered with towering evergreens placed in just such a location, shutting out the vista, the air, and the light. Furthermore, a planting of this kind spoils the architectural lines of the house, whereas actually one of the purposes of the planting is to set off these lines to best advantage.
Bear in mind the shape of the evergreen selected, and visualize how it will fit into the general planting scheme. Evergreens have definite forms, use the pyramidal and columnar types sparingly; in fact, these are especially adapted for accent purposes, and where space permits they are sometimes well placed each side of a doorway. The globular kinds are very distinctive, and they should also be used with much thought. Evergreens with a bushy habit of growth and the creeping species, such as some of the Junipers, can be used more freely than those with more formal lines.
Another factor that should be considered is whether the planting is to be made in the sun or in the shade. There are evergreens that thrive in every location, and it is an easy matter to find the right plant for the available situation. Some of those that are shade-tolerant include such favorites as Laurel, Oregon Holly-grape, Holly Olive, Cherry-laurel, and the evergreen species of Privet.
If your builder has given you an allowance for purchasing plant material, you are then a free lance. In spending this sum it is much wiser not to attempt to stretch the planting over too extensive an area, but rather to make each part perfect in itself. Be sure to buy your trees and shrubs from reliable sources. A good buyer looks over the plants carefully to make certain that each one is compact and vigorous.
It is important not to introduce too great a variety of evergreens in the planting scheme, but rather to have each kind well represented, otherwise the planting would be too heterogeneous, which would give a confused effect. This does not apply to plants that are columnar or globular in shape. These should be used sparingly.
Take care of the key planting first of all; this is usually along the foundation of the house. Evergreens are unsurpassed for tying the house to the ground; they give an exceptionally handsome setting - in fact they bring about a real metamorphosis. A touch of deciduous material introduced into the evergreen planting gives a light note. It adds interest and beauty because of the contrast in habit of growth and color of foliage that it provides. Flowering shrubs which are conspicuous for their blooms, berries, and autumn coloration are excellent for this purpose.
Along the boundary of the place a combination of the taller-growing and lower-growing evergreens gives more complete seclusion than any other kind of plant material, and provides an all-year-round line of demarcation. The taller-growing kinds are excellent for the background, and the dwarf types are used as facers.
In many suburban communities houses are built on small lots. Under these conditions landscaping is often difficult. When a good neighbor policy can be adopted, this sometimes turns out to be a solution to the problem of restricted space for garden-making. By co-operating in a plan with your next-door neighbor a landscape effect can be developed that will be of mutual benefit. This can be done by treating the two places as a unit in developing the planting plan. The result will be a more spacious, open garden.
Have fun with your gardening!
Albert II Planning Second Polar Visit
The Arctic tundra may soon see a second visit from Prince Albert of Monaco. A Russian news agency announced in October that Albert II intends to visit the North Pole in a Russian airship next spring. The expedition will be led by Jean-Louis Etienne, a French explorer famous for becoming the first man to travel to the North Pole alone on foot in 1986. Not only does he have Arctic experience, he crossed the entire continent of Antarctica on foot in 1989 and 1990. He has also sailed around the world, rowed across the Atlantic Ocean and climbed Mount Everest.
Their intended vessel will be the Au-30 airship, a unique dirigible built in Moscow by the Russian manufacturer Avgur Russian Air Systems. A dirigible is a buoyant aircraft that is lighter than air. It is steered with rudders and pushed through the air via two 170-horsepower propeller engines. The Au-30 is a multipurpose airship, designed for long-term flights with the capacity for surveillance at low speed and low altitudes, making it an ideal ship with which to survey the North Pole. Other Au-30 airships are being used to survey Russian high-tension wires and Moscow traffic conditions.
The expedition will be the first dirigible flight to the North Pole since famed Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen made the journey in 1926 with Italian explorer, pilot and engineer Umberto Nobile.
Prince Albert previously visited the North Pole as a part of a dog sled expedition in April 2006. The purpose of his journey was to highlight the importance of research on global warming. He and seven others made a 57-mile trek to the pole, departing from an outpost in Barneo, although the prince noted that the trip was made considerably longer by the formation of ice hills that needed to be climbed along the way. He stated that the trip was very "physically challenging," according to BBC reports.
The voyage was more than just a publicity stunt, as the prince would prove. He established the Albert II Foundation upon his return. The organization is aimed to be "a permanent source of dynamic and innovative actions for environmental protection and sustainable environment," according to the prince.
The foundation aims to focus its efforts on three main areas: climate change, biodiversity and access to drinking water. The foundation feels that serious environmental warning signs "require each of us to act if we are to protect our planet for future generations. We all share the environment; its protection is our duty." Prince Albert stated, "Monaco may not be the biggest country in the world, but I am determined to show it can be among the most innovative in its approaches to the environment."
The 2008 spring expedition to the North Pole will be held in conjunction with the International Polar Year, as declared by the United Nations. The International Polar Year is organized through the International Council for Science and the World Meteorological Organization, and it will consist of over 200 projects involving thousands of scientists from over 60 nations.
The prince 's passion for the North Pole seems to run in the family. Prince Albert 's great-great-grandfather, Albert I, made four trips to the Arctic nearly a century ago. However, Albert II is the first head of state to make it to the North Pole while still in office.
The prince, age 49, became ruler of Monaco in July 2005 after the death of his father, Prince Rainier.
Their intended vessel will be the Au-30 airship, a unique dirigible built in Moscow by the Russian manufacturer Avgur Russian Air Systems. A dirigible is a buoyant aircraft that is lighter than air. It is steered with rudders and pushed through the air via two 170-horsepower propeller engines. The Au-30 is a multipurpose airship, designed for long-term flights with the capacity for surveillance at low speed and low altitudes, making it an ideal ship with which to survey the North Pole. Other Au-30 airships are being used to survey Russian high-tension wires and Moscow traffic conditions.
The expedition will be the first dirigible flight to the North Pole since famed Norwegian explorer Roald Amundsen made the journey in 1926 with Italian explorer, pilot and engineer Umberto Nobile.
Prince Albert previously visited the North Pole as a part of a dog sled expedition in April 2006. The purpose of his journey was to highlight the importance of research on global warming. He and seven others made a 57-mile trek to the pole, departing from an outpost in Barneo, although the prince noted that the trip was made considerably longer by the formation of ice hills that needed to be climbed along the way. He stated that the trip was very "physically challenging," according to BBC reports.
The voyage was more than just a publicity stunt, as the prince would prove. He established the Albert II Foundation upon his return. The organization is aimed to be "a permanent source of dynamic and innovative actions for environmental protection and sustainable environment," according to the prince.
The foundation aims to focus its efforts on three main areas: climate change, biodiversity and access to drinking water. The foundation feels that serious environmental warning signs "require each of us to act if we are to protect our planet for future generations. We all share the environment; its protection is our duty." Prince Albert stated, "Monaco may not be the biggest country in the world, but I am determined to show it can be among the most innovative in its approaches to the environment."
The 2008 spring expedition to the North Pole will be held in conjunction with the International Polar Year, as declared by the United Nations. The International Polar Year is organized through the International Council for Science and the World Meteorological Organization, and it will consist of over 200 projects involving thousands of scientists from over 60 nations.
The prince 's passion for the North Pole seems to run in the family. Prince Albert 's great-great-grandfather, Albert I, made four trips to the Arctic nearly a century ago. However, Albert II is the first head of state to make it to the North Pole while still in office.
The prince, age 49, became ruler of Monaco in July 2005 after the death of his father, Prince Rainier.
The Unknown World Of Giant Squids
The giant squid is one of the monstrous creatures still alive and always alluring many researchers around the world but till this time seems more mystifying as none of the giant squids are captured alive and the research is based on the corpses which are washed ashore.
This has led the scientists and researchers to study this mammoth sea creature from the carcasses washed ashore.
With limited samples, the researchers have been able to know some amazing facts about this mammoth sea creature and one such aspect is its intelligence. Yes! The giant squids are intelligent creatures and it is no myth. Most of the giant squid are highly intelligent and at times very gentle.
There is an alien intelligence existing beneath the deep waters, a bizarre life form that appears to be breeding by the hundreds in cold black waters far below the surface. This intelligence resides in the giant squids that have three hearts, primate-like stereoscopic eyes, blue blood and brains large enough to suggest they are among the smartest creatures on earth.
The giant squids are smart hunters and during their hunt for food they make use of this quality, the intelligence, very much. Giant squids have been called the most opportunistic killers in the sea. They have been observed employing cooperative hunting techniques, yet they will not vacillate to overeat upon one another should they sense the slightest possible opening.
It is being found that they will attack anything over which they sense an advantage, including humans.
Giant squids have been the most mystifying sea creature since a long time with more myths and tales than concrete scientific information. This has troubled the squid researchers as nothing was known about this giant creature.
But recent studies have generated some success and a few details are now known about this creature. The food habit of the giant squid have also been a great mystery for the researchers but some of the recent studies on these creatures show that giant squid eat deep-sea fishes, such as orange ruffie, and hokie.
They also eat some other species of squids, such as deep-sea squids, and not architeuthis, not the giant squid.
Another interesting factor about the giant squid is the eight arms it has which can grow up to 3 meters in length, but eventually none of them are used to grab prey. These two longer tentacles actually catch the prey. Giant squid have tentacles that may grow a length of 10-12 meters.
At the other end, away from the head, the tentacles expand to look like clubs. Both arms and tentacles are equipped with suckers, which are sub-spherical cups lined with sharp, finely jagged rings of chitin. Suckers use powerful suction to hold onto prey while the rings of chitin sink into the ill-fated animal.
The arms have suckers arranged in rows from the base near the mantle to the tips, whereas the tentacles are smooth from the base to near the club where there are small suckers
However, on records the largest squid found is Largest recorded giant squid was a female that washed ashore on a New Zealand beach in 1887 18 meters long (59.5 feet). Its mantle was 5 meters (16.4 feet).
It weighed 1 metric ton. Scientists and squid researchers have being trying their level best to capture or study a living giant squid but till this time their hard efforts have not bearded fruits.
This has led the scientists and researchers to study this mammoth sea creature from the carcasses washed ashore.
With limited samples, the researchers have been able to know some amazing facts about this mammoth sea creature and one such aspect is its intelligence. Yes! The giant squids are intelligent creatures and it is no myth. Most of the giant squid are highly intelligent and at times very gentle.
There is an alien intelligence existing beneath the deep waters, a bizarre life form that appears to be breeding by the hundreds in cold black waters far below the surface. This intelligence resides in the giant squids that have three hearts, primate-like stereoscopic eyes, blue blood and brains large enough to suggest they are among the smartest creatures on earth.
The giant squids are smart hunters and during their hunt for food they make use of this quality, the intelligence, very much. Giant squids have been called the most opportunistic killers in the sea. They have been observed employing cooperative hunting techniques, yet they will not vacillate to overeat upon one another should they sense the slightest possible opening.
It is being found that they will attack anything over which they sense an advantage, including humans.
Giant squids have been the most mystifying sea creature since a long time with more myths and tales than concrete scientific information. This has troubled the squid researchers as nothing was known about this giant creature.
But recent studies have generated some success and a few details are now known about this creature. The food habit of the giant squid have also been a great mystery for the researchers but some of the recent studies on these creatures show that giant squid eat deep-sea fishes, such as orange ruffie, and hokie.
They also eat some other species of squids, such as deep-sea squids, and not architeuthis, not the giant squid.
Another interesting factor about the giant squid is the eight arms it has which can grow up to 3 meters in length, but eventually none of them are used to grab prey. These two longer tentacles actually catch the prey. Giant squid have tentacles that may grow a length of 10-12 meters.
At the other end, away from the head, the tentacles expand to look like clubs. Both arms and tentacles are equipped with suckers, which are sub-spherical cups lined with sharp, finely jagged rings of chitin. Suckers use powerful suction to hold onto prey while the rings of chitin sink into the ill-fated animal.
The arms have suckers arranged in rows from the base near the mantle to the tips, whereas the tentacles are smooth from the base to near the club where there are small suckers
However, on records the largest squid found is Largest recorded giant squid was a female that washed ashore on a New Zealand beach in 1887 18 meters long (59.5 feet). Its mantle was 5 meters (16.4 feet).
It weighed 1 metric ton. Scientists and squid researchers have being trying their level best to capture or study a living giant squid but till this time their hard efforts have not bearded fruits.
Planning Your Wild Birds' Winter Menu
Feeding wild birds in winter is an enjoyable past time, makes our feathered friends happy, and keeps them coming back to our feeders. So what should be on their menu to help them through the cold days of winter?
Before we answer that, let 's get something out of the way. By attracting birds to our feeders, are we making them too dependent on a free source of food, and weakening their ability to find food on their own? Do we actually put birds at greater risk because of cats and flying into windows?
Studies have shown that feeding wild birds does not affect their ability to find food on their own. When feeders are removed - or they become empty - birds will simply move on to another set of feeders and/or forage on their own. They are remarkably resourceful that way.
Locate your feeders well off the ground and near cover to prevent predation from cats. If flying into windows is a problem, there are stick-on window decals that are almost invisible to humans, but birds can see them easily. Since birds can eat more at your feeder in a shorter period of time than they can foraging, they are actually at reduced risk of predation.
The next item you want in place is a water source. Birds need water all year long. The water supply should be kept clean and fresh, and should not be over 1/2 to 1 inch deep. In winter, freezing is a problem in most parts of the country, but heaters or devices that keep the water moving are available from most wild bird supply stores and Web sites. What ever you do, do not add anything to the water to keep it from freezing, such as antifreeze. Would you drink it? That stuff is poisonous to all animals.
Now for food. Like pizza is for teenagers, black oil sunflower seed is for birds. They love it, and most varieties of wild birds will stuff it down. The list of black oil sunflower seed connoisseurs includes finches, chickadees, titmice, cardinals, woodpeckers, blue jays, nuthatches, and others. Don't get the gray and white-striped sunflower seed because the shells are harder, and it doesn't have as much of the needed fat as does the black oil variety.
A real delicacy for finches is niger seed. Niger is seed is a tiny, black seed, but it is expensive, so you want to avoid waste. While many tube feeders will work with niger seed, you want one made specifically for niger seed. Such feeders will have tiny holes that help reduce waste.
Another good wild bird food is safflower seed. This is a small, white seed that is a favorite of cardinals, downy woodpeckers, titmice and chickadees. The best part is blue jays, grackles and squirrels won't eat it. Since squirrels won't eat it, you can use it in platform feeders without a lot of loss. It is available by itself as well as mixed with black oil sunflower seeds.
While planning your wild birds' menu, you will want to consider white millet. You can throw it on the ground to attract sparrows, juncos, and mourning doves. And it 's cheaper than sunflower seed.
Don't forget suet. Suet has a lot of fat, which birds love during periods of cold and high activity. It is readily available as is the special wire feeder. It is somewhat messy, however. So you might want to consider the new pelletized suets. They come in several varieties, with each pellet being about the size of a pencil eraser, so it won't work in tube feeders with small holes. But it is excellent for platform feeders and to throw on the ground or deck.
At first, most birds ignore the pellets, but after an hour or so, they really get into them. Squirrels seem to avoid it. The pellets are available in some bird supply stores and online.
Avoid mixed bird seed. While such seed appears inexpensive, it often consists of mostly filler, such as red millet that birds won't eat. Birds are no dummies. Like a six-year old picking through his food, birds will discard the filler, eating only what they like. The waste falls to the ground, making a mess on your yard, patio or deck. So any saving will be more than offset by the waste.
Do you want the convenience of mixed seed without the waste? Make you own mix. It 's easy. Try about 2 to 2 1/2 pounds of black oil sunflower seed for every 1 pound of white millet and 1 pound of cracked corn. The exact ratio is not critical. Put it all in a clean trash can and stir. Dinner 's ready.
Finally, place your feeders where you see them easily, load them with your special of the day, and enjoy the show.
There you have it. Hopefully this information will help you with your wild bird menu so that they will flock to your restaurant all winter!
Before we answer that, let 's get something out of the way. By attracting birds to our feeders, are we making them too dependent on a free source of food, and weakening their ability to find food on their own? Do we actually put birds at greater risk because of cats and flying into windows?
Studies have shown that feeding wild birds does not affect their ability to find food on their own. When feeders are removed - or they become empty - birds will simply move on to another set of feeders and/or forage on their own. They are remarkably resourceful that way.
Locate your feeders well off the ground and near cover to prevent predation from cats. If flying into windows is a problem, there are stick-on window decals that are almost invisible to humans, but birds can see them easily. Since birds can eat more at your feeder in a shorter period of time than they can foraging, they are actually at reduced risk of predation.
The next item you want in place is a water source. Birds need water all year long. The water supply should be kept clean and fresh, and should not be over 1/2 to 1 inch deep. In winter, freezing is a problem in most parts of the country, but heaters or devices that keep the water moving are available from most wild bird supply stores and Web sites. What ever you do, do not add anything to the water to keep it from freezing, such as antifreeze. Would you drink it? That stuff is poisonous to all animals.
Now for food. Like pizza is for teenagers, black oil sunflower seed is for birds. They love it, and most varieties of wild birds will stuff it down. The list of black oil sunflower seed connoisseurs includes finches, chickadees, titmice, cardinals, woodpeckers, blue jays, nuthatches, and others. Don't get the gray and white-striped sunflower seed because the shells are harder, and it doesn't have as much of the needed fat as does the black oil variety.
A real delicacy for finches is niger seed. Niger is seed is a tiny, black seed, but it is expensive, so you want to avoid waste. While many tube feeders will work with niger seed, you want one made specifically for niger seed. Such feeders will have tiny holes that help reduce waste.
Another good wild bird food is safflower seed. This is a small, white seed that is a favorite of cardinals, downy woodpeckers, titmice and chickadees. The best part is blue jays, grackles and squirrels won't eat it. Since squirrels won't eat it, you can use it in platform feeders without a lot of loss. It is available by itself as well as mixed with black oil sunflower seeds.
While planning your wild birds' menu, you will want to consider white millet. You can throw it on the ground to attract sparrows, juncos, and mourning doves. And it 's cheaper than sunflower seed.
Don't forget suet. Suet has a lot of fat, which birds love during periods of cold and high activity. It is readily available as is the special wire feeder. It is somewhat messy, however. So you might want to consider the new pelletized suets. They come in several varieties, with each pellet being about the size of a pencil eraser, so it won't work in tube feeders with small holes. But it is excellent for platform feeders and to throw on the ground or deck.
At first, most birds ignore the pellets, but after an hour or so, they really get into them. Squirrels seem to avoid it. The pellets are available in some bird supply stores and online.
Avoid mixed bird seed. While such seed appears inexpensive, it often consists of mostly filler, such as red millet that birds won't eat. Birds are no dummies. Like a six-year old picking through his food, birds will discard the filler, eating only what they like. The waste falls to the ground, making a mess on your yard, patio or deck. So any saving will be more than offset by the waste.
Do you want the convenience of mixed seed without the waste? Make you own mix. It 's easy. Try about 2 to 2 1/2 pounds of black oil sunflower seed for every 1 pound of white millet and 1 pound of cracked corn. The exact ratio is not critical. Put it all in a clean trash can and stir. Dinner 's ready.
Finally, place your feeders where you see them easily, load them with your special of the day, and enjoy the show.
There you have it. Hopefully this information will help you with your wild bird menu so that they will flock to your restaurant all winter!
Planting A Yew Hedge
Of all the plants used in hedges the most quintessentially British is yew hedging. It is the oldest living tree in the British Isles with yews in England and Wales that is over 3,000 years of age - the Fortingall yew in Perthshire is between 4-5,000 years old. The yew is inextricably linked with death and rebirth - every old churchyard has a yew tree to ward off evil spirits.
The tool of an English long bowman 's trade was made of yew, which was once feared upon through Europe and was the cornerstone of some of our most famous medieval victories (Agincourt, Crecy etc). To have a yew hedging that is part of English history, also as an integral part of an English garden is a wonderful thing and not difficult to do.
Preparation
Plan its location with care - yew hedge plants will grow in bright sunshine and deep shade, but it is capable of staying where you put it for hundreds of years. It likes any soil that drains and that has some nourishment (so stay away from clay and sand).
Before you start you will need a sprayer or watering can if you are going to use weed killer, a spade, a sharp knife, a few canes ,string, a bucket, a 1 metre long piece of wood and (on planting day) your plants.
Ground preparation is simple. Play around with bamboo canes and string until you are sure you have marked out exactly where the yew hedging will look best. It is not necessary but preferable to apply a non-residual weed killer (any one containing Glyphosate is fine) following the manufacturer 's instructions a minimum of 4 weeks before you intend to plant. Do this on a still, dry day when the temperature is above freezing.
Leave for 4-6 weeks to allow the weeds and grass to die and then remove the top 1-inch (2.5cm) of soil and dead weed, which can go straight into your compost heap. If you do not use a weed killer, remove the turf that you can put upside down on your compost heap. Take out a trench the depth of a garden spade and (if you are planting in a single row) 60 cms wide. Put the earth from the trench on a sheet nearby. Remove roots and stones and break up any large clods of soil. If the ground is poor, incorporate a little well rotted manure or compost.
The planting process
Take a bundle of plants out of their wrapping, cut the string and soak the roots in a bucket of water. Mark the planting line with 2 canes and a piece of string. Even spacing of plants in a formal hedge is important, so use a measuring stick with 33 cms markings to help you space out your plants accurately.
Make sure the yew hedge plants end up no deeper in the soil than the level they grew at before they were lifted - you can use the string as an indicator of soil level. If in doubt, it is better to plant too high than too deep. Hold each plant at the correct height and return the soil under and around the roots firming it as you go. Two people, one holding and one shoveling best do this.
Before you finally firm the ground double check the spacing of the plants and make sure they are upright. It is important with all bare-rooted plants that a good contact is established between the roots and soil as soon as they are planted. Without stamping, firm the ground around each plant using your full body weight. It is a good idea to hold the plant vertical whilst doing this. Do not forget to water your hedge after planting and during dry spells in the spring until it is well established.
Clip the side branches of the yew whenever you feel like it; the more clipping the better as this helps the plants become bushier. However, do not cut the growing tip until the hedge has reached the height you want. Once cut off, it will never grow upwards as fast as before.
The tool of an English long bowman 's trade was made of yew, which was once feared upon through Europe and was the cornerstone of some of our most famous medieval victories (Agincourt, Crecy etc). To have a yew hedging that is part of English history, also as an integral part of an English garden is a wonderful thing and not difficult to do.
Preparation
Plan its location with care - yew hedge plants will grow in bright sunshine and deep shade, but it is capable of staying where you put it for hundreds of years. It likes any soil that drains and that has some nourishment (so stay away from clay and sand).
Before you start you will need a sprayer or watering can if you are going to use weed killer, a spade, a sharp knife, a few canes ,string, a bucket, a 1 metre long piece of wood and (on planting day) your plants.
Ground preparation is simple. Play around with bamboo canes and string until you are sure you have marked out exactly where the yew hedging will look best. It is not necessary but preferable to apply a non-residual weed killer (any one containing Glyphosate is fine) following the manufacturer 's instructions a minimum of 4 weeks before you intend to plant. Do this on a still, dry day when the temperature is above freezing.
Leave for 4-6 weeks to allow the weeds and grass to die and then remove the top 1-inch (2.5cm) of soil and dead weed, which can go straight into your compost heap. If you do not use a weed killer, remove the turf that you can put upside down on your compost heap. Take out a trench the depth of a garden spade and (if you are planting in a single row) 60 cms wide. Put the earth from the trench on a sheet nearby. Remove roots and stones and break up any large clods of soil. If the ground is poor, incorporate a little well rotted manure or compost.
The planting process
Take a bundle of plants out of their wrapping, cut the string and soak the roots in a bucket of water. Mark the planting line with 2 canes and a piece of string. Even spacing of plants in a formal hedge is important, so use a measuring stick with 33 cms markings to help you space out your plants accurately.
Make sure the yew hedge plants end up no deeper in the soil than the level they grew at before they were lifted - you can use the string as an indicator of soil level. If in doubt, it is better to plant too high than too deep. Hold each plant at the correct height and return the soil under and around the roots firming it as you go. Two people, one holding and one shoveling best do this.
Before you finally firm the ground double check the spacing of the plants and make sure they are upright. It is important with all bare-rooted plants that a good contact is established between the roots and soil as soon as they are planted. Without stamping, firm the ground around each plant using your full body weight. It is a good idea to hold the plant vertical whilst doing this. Do not forget to water your hedge after planting and during dry spells in the spring until it is well established.
Clip the side branches of the yew whenever you feel like it; the more clipping the better as this helps the plants become bushier. However, do not cut the growing tip until the hedge has reached the height you want. Once cut off, it will never grow upwards as fast as before.
How To Grow Salvia Divinorum
There are two basic ways to grow the salvia divinorum herb. Salvia can either be grown from a seed, or from cuttings taken from a healthy plant. The easiest way to grow the salvia divinorum herb is from a seed. To make sure that it propagates correctly, you will want to be sure to implement all the necessary steps needed to grow it successfully.
To grow salvia from a seed, you will need to obtain the seed from a supplier. You can find several good ones online if there are none near you locally. Next, you will need to get a planting pot that will fit the growth of the herb. If possible, it would be best to use a hanging pot when planting the seed because the soil needs to be watered from the bottom as well as the top. If you cannot find a hanging pot to plant it in, then make sure to use a very good mister to keep the plant leaves and soil moist.
Once you have found your pot, simply burry the seeds about two or three milimeters deep. That would be roughly 0.1 inches. Place the pot in a place where there is no chance of it being knocked over as the seeds are very small and fragile. The salvia herb is slow growing at first, but after it has had a chance to gain some strength, it will take off and become strong like most other home grown plants. The seeds should germinate within about two to four weeks if they are viable.
You can also grow salvia divinorum from cuttings. To plant it this way, make a cut just below the node on the plant, with clean, sharp shears. The cuttings grow best when they are between two and eight inches in length. Place the cuttings in individual glasses, with about one and a half cups of water in each of them. Keep them seperate and they will grow better. In about two to three weeks, you should see them begin to grow roots, and at this point you can plant them in soil as already described.
After they have grown several small roots, and you have planted them in very loose soil, keep them well watered. Make sure that the soil is not soggy, but very well saturated. Keep the plants inside again for another two or three weeks until the root system has grown strong enough to sustain the winds, and other outside elements. Just in case something goes wrong, it is recommended that you attempt growing between six and twelve plants at one time. When done this way, you will be sure to have at least one prosperous salvia divinorum plant that survives and grows to be healthy.
It is also recommended that when first planting salvia, you try both methods. Use seeds to plant three to six plants, and then use cuttings to attempt growing another three to six plants. Upon observation, you will be able to determine which method works the best for you in order to grow the healthiest plant possible in the future.
You should begin fertilization about four weeks after the new plant has been placed in soil. For plants that you started from a seed, you can begin fertilization when they grow to about two inches in height. While the plants should be strong enough to sustain themselves without fertilizer, using it will only help the results.
Make sure to transfer the plants to new pots every few weeks as they enjoy lots of room for their root system to grow. The salvia herb does not need much direct sunlight, and grows best in shaded areas. Keep direct sunlight exposure limited to less than four hours per day. The ideal temperature for salvia to grow in would be any where between 60 and 80 degrees fehrenheit. After the plant has reached one meter in height, make sure that you give it the proper support needed to stand up straight. Salvia divinorum stems are not very strong, and if they do not have the proper support, they will fall over.
Practice using different soil, and potting strategies several times to find the best possible combination to grow healthy salvia plants in your area. After a few attempts, you will be well on your way to having your very own salvia garden!
To grow salvia from a seed, you will need to obtain the seed from a supplier. You can find several good ones online if there are none near you locally. Next, you will need to get a planting pot that will fit the growth of the herb. If possible, it would be best to use a hanging pot when planting the seed because the soil needs to be watered from the bottom as well as the top. If you cannot find a hanging pot to plant it in, then make sure to use a very good mister to keep the plant leaves and soil moist.
Once you have found your pot, simply burry the seeds about two or three milimeters deep. That would be roughly 0.1 inches. Place the pot in a place where there is no chance of it being knocked over as the seeds are very small and fragile. The salvia herb is slow growing at first, but after it has had a chance to gain some strength, it will take off and become strong like most other home grown plants. The seeds should germinate within about two to four weeks if they are viable.
You can also grow salvia divinorum from cuttings. To plant it this way, make a cut just below the node on the plant, with clean, sharp shears. The cuttings grow best when they are between two and eight inches in length. Place the cuttings in individual glasses, with about one and a half cups of water in each of them. Keep them seperate and they will grow better. In about two to three weeks, you should see them begin to grow roots, and at this point you can plant them in soil as already described.
After they have grown several small roots, and you have planted them in very loose soil, keep them well watered. Make sure that the soil is not soggy, but very well saturated. Keep the plants inside again for another two or three weeks until the root system has grown strong enough to sustain the winds, and other outside elements. Just in case something goes wrong, it is recommended that you attempt growing between six and twelve plants at one time. When done this way, you will be sure to have at least one prosperous salvia divinorum plant that survives and grows to be healthy.
It is also recommended that when first planting salvia, you try both methods. Use seeds to plant three to six plants, and then use cuttings to attempt growing another three to six plants. Upon observation, you will be able to determine which method works the best for you in order to grow the healthiest plant possible in the future.
You should begin fertilization about four weeks after the new plant has been placed in soil. For plants that you started from a seed, you can begin fertilization when they grow to about two inches in height. While the plants should be strong enough to sustain themselves without fertilizer, using it will only help the results.
Make sure to transfer the plants to new pots every few weeks as they enjoy lots of room for their root system to grow. The salvia herb does not need much direct sunlight, and grows best in shaded areas. Keep direct sunlight exposure limited to less than four hours per day. The ideal temperature for salvia to grow in would be any where between 60 and 80 degrees fehrenheit. After the plant has reached one meter in height, make sure that you give it the proper support needed to stand up straight. Salvia divinorum stems are not very strong, and if they do not have the proper support, they will fall over.
Practice using different soil, and potting strategies several times to find the best possible combination to grow healthy salvia plants in your area. After a few attempts, you will be well on your way to having your very own salvia garden!
Hanford Elk Herd Management Plan - State of Washington
The Hanford Elk Herd, also known as the Rattlesnake Hills Elk Herd, has been rapidly expanding in recent years, especially in the Fitzner-Eberhart Arid Lands Ecology (ALE) reserve of the Hanford site. This reserve is a restricted access area with unique habitats that is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS). This organization is currently developing a Comprehensive Conservation Plan for the management of this area. An important component of this plan will be the conflicting management issues that have occurred in relation to this herd. It will be a coordinated effort between the USFWS, the DOE (Department of Energy), and the WDFW to manage the elk in the long term.
Two major subspecies of elk reside in Washington State. Roosevelt elk are indigenous to the Pacific coastal region. Rocky Mountain elk live primarily in the eastern part of the state. Washington is sixth in ranking for population of North American continental elk. Around 62,000 elk reside in the state, split about equally between the two subspecies. The Hanford Elk Herd is made up of Rocky Mountain Elk. Historically, these animals inhabited arid shrub steppe habitats in the Columbia Basin. However, by 1850, they had been hunted to extinction. Modern Washington elk, including those that make up the Hanford herd, are descended from fifty individuals imported in 1913, from Montana, or from later transplants released in the Blue Mountains and Colockum areas.
In 1930 the elk population in the state was around 15,000. It peaked in 1970 at around 69,000. Recently, many populations have shown a trend towards population decline. However, the Yakima elk and populations of animals in northeastern Washington have not had this problem, and have shown continuous, dramatic increases in population through their histories. The Rattlesnake Hills, or Hanford Elk Herd, has particularly shown continual growth since its probably beginning in 1972, as an offshoot from the Yakima population.
In the past, liberal hunting seasons have been used in an attempt to control the size of this population. Between 1986 and the present day, the seasons have varied between thirty and nearly sixty days in length. In some cases, only bulls with visible antlers were considered legal animals. In other seasons, mixed sex hunting was permitted. Harvesting has, however, been inconsistent from year to year. This is because of the lack of hunting access in the ALE and poor access from private lands. Recent increased cooperation by landowners has increased the number of elk taken. However, hunting alone is not an effective solution to the growing population.
The expansion of this herd 's numbers poses a threat to the unique habitats of the ALE Reserve, through damage caused by these animals. In addition, nearby private lands are also at risk of suffering heavy crop and property damage. These dangers need to be addressed in any elk management plan for this area.
The current management plan for the Hanford Elk Herd is intended to provide basic information on the elk and their situation, to help discuss alternative actions and to set the direction for the elk population 's management, both on the ALE and on adjacent public and private lands. It has a number of major goals, which include the following:
Provision of background information about the elk population in Rattlesnake Hills and on the Hanford Site, as well as in Game Management Units (GMUs) 371 and 372.
Identification of problems that are associated with the Rattlesnake Hills elk population.
Identification of appropriate parties with which cooperation should be begun. These may include federal, state, and local agencies and governments, private landowners, local tribes who may function as co-managers, and other parties which have an interest in the management of the elk herd. Coordination and cooperation with each of these parties will be necessary for effective elk management.
Discussion of the various options and alternatives for the current management and future of this subpopulation of the larger Yakima Elk Herd is also important. It is also vital to ensure that any actions taken in this plan to not preclude the management options that are being developed by the USFWS.
Two major subspecies of elk reside in Washington State. Roosevelt elk are indigenous to the Pacific coastal region. Rocky Mountain elk live primarily in the eastern part of the state. Washington is sixth in ranking for population of North American continental elk. Around 62,000 elk reside in the state, split about equally between the two subspecies. The Hanford Elk Herd is made up of Rocky Mountain Elk. Historically, these animals inhabited arid shrub steppe habitats in the Columbia Basin. However, by 1850, they had been hunted to extinction. Modern Washington elk, including those that make up the Hanford herd, are descended from fifty individuals imported in 1913, from Montana, or from later transplants released in the Blue Mountains and Colockum areas.
In 1930 the elk population in the state was around 15,000. It peaked in 1970 at around 69,000. Recently, many populations have shown a trend towards population decline. However, the Yakima elk and populations of animals in northeastern Washington have not had this problem, and have shown continuous, dramatic increases in population through their histories. The Rattlesnake Hills, or Hanford Elk Herd, has particularly shown continual growth since its probably beginning in 1972, as an offshoot from the Yakima population.
In the past, liberal hunting seasons have been used in an attempt to control the size of this population. Between 1986 and the present day, the seasons have varied between thirty and nearly sixty days in length. In some cases, only bulls with visible antlers were considered legal animals. In other seasons, mixed sex hunting was permitted. Harvesting has, however, been inconsistent from year to year. This is because of the lack of hunting access in the ALE and poor access from private lands. Recent increased cooperation by landowners has increased the number of elk taken. However, hunting alone is not an effective solution to the growing population.
The expansion of this herd 's numbers poses a threat to the unique habitats of the ALE Reserve, through damage caused by these animals. In addition, nearby private lands are also at risk of suffering heavy crop and property damage. These dangers need to be addressed in any elk management plan for this area.
The current management plan for the Hanford Elk Herd is intended to provide basic information on the elk and their situation, to help discuss alternative actions and to set the direction for the elk population 's management, both on the ALE and on adjacent public and private lands. It has a number of major goals, which include the following:
Provision of background information about the elk population in Rattlesnake Hills and on the Hanford Site, as well as in Game Management Units (GMUs) 371 and 372.
Identification of problems that are associated with the Rattlesnake Hills elk population.
Identification of appropriate parties with which cooperation should be begun. These may include federal, state, and local agencies and governments, private landowners, local tribes who may function as co-managers, and other parties which have an interest in the management of the elk herd. Coordination and cooperation with each of these parties will be necessary for effective elk management.
Discussion of the various options and alternatives for the current management and future of this subpopulation of the larger Yakima Elk Herd is also important. It is also vital to ensure that any actions taken in this plan to not preclude the management options that are being developed by the USFWS.
The Shifting Hayward Fault or Our Worst Natural Disaster Coming Real Soon!
The first few days after the Loma Prieta earthquake in 1989, Santa Cruz was landlocked. Highway 1 was closed in both directions as were Highways 17 and 9. Highway 9 was the first to open and that 's what I used to get to San Jose and the Bay Area. It took several extra hours so I also spent the night in hotels. But the phones eventually worked and the power was fine and business continued if not somewhat altered. Altered is an understatement; after a major earthquake, nothing is the same.
The Loma Prieta quake was limited in scope even though it measured 7.1 on the Richter scale. Many of the hardest hit areas were in the unpopulated mountains. But who can forget the scenes of the collapsed 880 freeway at Oakland?
The Hayward Fault is a different fault and runs directly under Highway 880 in the East San Francisco Bay. What is important to remember is Highway 880 runs along the Bay and Highway 680 runs along the foothills. 880 and 680 are the only north south freeways in the East Bay. That 's it, folks. Although all communities are now planned, none seemed to plan for the Big One on the Hayward Fault.
If a major quake hits the Hayward fault, it will most certainly disable Highway 880, the main artery of the east bay. If in fact damage occurs also on Highway 680, there will be no north-south traffic. Millions of people will be stranded in their own shaking neighborhoods.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has showed that the economic loss from a 6.9 Hayward Fault shaker would be greater than that of Hurricane Katrina. An estimated 87,000 employers and one and a half million jobs will be directly at risk. Something around $100 billion dollars in wages. That 's almost a fifth more than the total damages of Hurricane Katrina. Hard to believe such a small area carries such a major economic clout.
The economics are there because the East Bay is filled with technology and related companies. Many of the jobs are highly skilled and well paying. There are many bigger companies that could withstand some damage but many smaller companies running on tight budgets would simply go bankrupt. The bigger picture problem is many of these smaller companies are the most innovative in the U.S. although they often run on a day to day cash flow.
The actual figures on the fault are alarming. Since 1315 it has had a major quake every 140 years and it 's been 139 years since the last big one. Statistically, it 's due. With each passing year the odds increase. It 's not a matter of if, but when.
The economic multiplier and waves of negative economic impact will spread afterward just as we locals saw after the Loma Prieta earthquake. Many regional service and small manufacturing companies will see their revenues drop drastically as wave after wave of economic impact hit in the post-earthquake region. In the after effects of the Loma Prieta quake, we could see three month interval negative economic waves hit, usually with a string of corresponding failures and bankruptcies.
Today 's managers know the fault will one day slip and the ground will turn liquid and violent. But it doesn't appear that there is an exodus out or alternative planning. Yet. That will of course change with a significant shift on the Hayward fault.
Let 's hope for the best and pull for the home team on this one because even if you don't live in California this one will affect you. We can hope that maybe instead of the Big One it will be a series of smaller ones that will gradually relieve the pressure on the Earth 's continental plates.
But don't count on it. The only certainty is that the ground will eventually move...
The Loma Prieta quake was limited in scope even though it measured 7.1 on the Richter scale. Many of the hardest hit areas were in the unpopulated mountains. But who can forget the scenes of the collapsed 880 freeway at Oakland?
The Hayward Fault is a different fault and runs directly under Highway 880 in the East San Francisco Bay. What is important to remember is Highway 880 runs along the Bay and Highway 680 runs along the foothills. 880 and 680 are the only north south freeways in the East Bay. That 's it, folks. Although all communities are now planned, none seemed to plan for the Big One on the Hayward Fault.
If a major quake hits the Hayward fault, it will most certainly disable Highway 880, the main artery of the east bay. If in fact damage occurs also on Highway 680, there will be no north-south traffic. Millions of people will be stranded in their own shaking neighborhoods.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics has showed that the economic loss from a 6.9 Hayward Fault shaker would be greater than that of Hurricane Katrina. An estimated 87,000 employers and one and a half million jobs will be directly at risk. Something around $100 billion dollars in wages. That 's almost a fifth more than the total damages of Hurricane Katrina. Hard to believe such a small area carries such a major economic clout.
The economics are there because the East Bay is filled with technology and related companies. Many of the jobs are highly skilled and well paying. There are many bigger companies that could withstand some damage but many smaller companies running on tight budgets would simply go bankrupt. The bigger picture problem is many of these smaller companies are the most innovative in the U.S. although they often run on a day to day cash flow.
The actual figures on the fault are alarming. Since 1315 it has had a major quake every 140 years and it 's been 139 years since the last big one. Statistically, it 's due. With each passing year the odds increase. It 's not a matter of if, but when.
The economic multiplier and waves of negative economic impact will spread afterward just as we locals saw after the Loma Prieta earthquake. Many regional service and small manufacturing companies will see their revenues drop drastically as wave after wave of economic impact hit in the post-earthquake region. In the after effects of the Loma Prieta quake, we could see three month interval negative economic waves hit, usually with a string of corresponding failures and bankruptcies.
Today 's managers know the fault will one day slip and the ground will turn liquid and violent. But it doesn't appear that there is an exodus out or alternative planning. Yet. That will of course change with a significant shift on the Hayward fault.
Let 's hope for the best and pull for the home team on this one because even if you don't live in California this one will affect you. We can hope that maybe instead of the Big One it will be a series of smaller ones that will gradually relieve the pressure on the Earth 's continental plates.
But don't count on it. The only certainty is that the ground will eventually move...
Caribbean Ecocide or Where Did the Cancun and Playa Del Carmen Beaches Go?
Looking out across the dark Caribbean night from Punta Allen one sees three equally sized glowing areas on the distant horizon to the north. The furthest out is Cancun, the next Playa del Carmen and the last Tulum.
Cancun has a bit less than a million people; Playa has 300,000 and Tulum now over 30,000. Playa Del Carmen is the fastest growing municipality in Mexico.
But from Punta Allen each lighted area appears to be the same size since Cancun is farther away than Playa and Playa is farther away than Tulum. The three groups of lights are a reminder of the environmental impact of civilization, including light pollution.
In the next 20 years these three lights will merge.
Biologists report the coral reefs are dead out from Cancun, dying off the coast of Playa Del Carmen and starting to die off Tulum. Progress, people and pollution are taking their toll.
If the reefs die, scuba diving will go soon thereafter and that is a major source of tourist dollars. Scuba diving, unlike snorkeling, is not cheap.
The turtles are also moving south. Cancun has too much activity so the turtles are moving down the Riviera Maya coast and eventually will all move into the Sian Ka'an biosphere reserve.
The turtles are of course protected and the cute critters even have a radical environmental group just to make sure they stay around.
But many other creatures, like the pink conch and the jaguar, are slowly dying off as well. Such is progress.
The beaches too are dying.
Hurricane Wilma devastated the beaches on the Cancun strip and the replaced sand was not white and had broken shells in it and was not pleasing to the tourists.
Playacar Resort in Playa del Carmen is now being overtaken by water as the beach has totally washed away. Que pasa?
Hurricanes and storms seasonally move through the coast causing widespread damage and beach erosion. At our favorite beach south of Akumal we could see a good 15 meters of beach erosion had occurred not far from Oscar and Lalo 's .
Speaking of Oscar and Lalo 's they are no longer at the beach after Hurricane Dean of August 2008. They are on the highway now. Somehow the ambience is not the same.
And in case you were wondering, it 's all taken now. The beaches from Cancun to Tulum are resorted out. There are no free beaches left. That 's it. That 's why in the not too distant future the lights from Cancun, Playa and Tulum will merge.
Ah Cancun. Time to go sunbathe on the rocks.
Below Tulum the Sian Ka'an reserve is nature 's last stand and it is getting hit as well. Entering the national park one is surprised at the number of luxury weekend homes with private access.
And big fences. Some like Yvette Mimeux' Casa Palancar, have guards and barbed wire fences. Some national park.
The Hotel Strip in Cancun is not the only place where beach access is limited...despite Mexican federal law.
The technicality is that one is allowed on the beach but access to the beach is considered trespassing and access denied. Unless Yvette gives you the password.
If you don't believe it, go out to the Cancun hotel strip and see how far you have to drive to find a public access beach. Go out on the strip and see how far you have to drive to find a place to park.
The big political concern is that the degraded beaches and environment in general will scare away the tourists. Duh. At some point, it certainly will have an impact.
Less than 20 years ago one could snorkel off the beach in Playa del Carmen and see coral and fish. No more. Now that same beach is a boat launch.
It 's true the snow birds will still come to the Riviera Maya because it 's just too cold back in Chicago in the winter. And the Germans will come to sunburn their posteriors.
But wise up developers. At some point even the insane Germans will begin to look at other, less spoiled areas. Belize, Honduras, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala and Nicaragua would love the business.
And they still have beaches.
Cancun has a bit less than a million people; Playa has 300,000 and Tulum now over 30,000. Playa Del Carmen is the fastest growing municipality in Mexico.
But from Punta Allen each lighted area appears to be the same size since Cancun is farther away than Playa and Playa is farther away than Tulum. The three groups of lights are a reminder of the environmental impact of civilization, including light pollution.
In the next 20 years these three lights will merge.
Biologists report the coral reefs are dead out from Cancun, dying off the coast of Playa Del Carmen and starting to die off Tulum. Progress, people and pollution are taking their toll.
If the reefs die, scuba diving will go soon thereafter and that is a major source of tourist dollars. Scuba diving, unlike snorkeling, is not cheap.
The turtles are also moving south. Cancun has too much activity so the turtles are moving down the Riviera Maya coast and eventually will all move into the Sian Ka'an biosphere reserve.
The turtles are of course protected and the cute critters even have a radical environmental group just to make sure they stay around.
But many other creatures, like the pink conch and the jaguar, are slowly dying off as well. Such is progress.
The beaches too are dying.
Hurricane Wilma devastated the beaches on the Cancun strip and the replaced sand was not white and had broken shells in it and was not pleasing to the tourists.
Playacar Resort in Playa del Carmen is now being overtaken by water as the beach has totally washed away. Que pasa?
Hurricanes and storms seasonally move through the coast causing widespread damage and beach erosion. At our favorite beach south of Akumal we could see a good 15 meters of beach erosion had occurred not far from Oscar and Lalo 's .
Speaking of Oscar and Lalo 's they are no longer at the beach after Hurricane Dean of August 2008. They are on the highway now. Somehow the ambience is not the same.
And in case you were wondering, it 's all taken now. The beaches from Cancun to Tulum are resorted out. There are no free beaches left. That 's it. That 's why in the not too distant future the lights from Cancun, Playa and Tulum will merge.
Ah Cancun. Time to go sunbathe on the rocks.
Below Tulum the Sian Ka'an reserve is nature 's last stand and it is getting hit as well. Entering the national park one is surprised at the number of luxury weekend homes with private access.
And big fences. Some like Yvette Mimeux' Casa Palancar, have guards and barbed wire fences. Some national park.
The Hotel Strip in Cancun is not the only place where beach access is limited...despite Mexican federal law.
The technicality is that one is allowed on the beach but access to the beach is considered trespassing and access denied. Unless Yvette gives you the password.
If you don't believe it, go out to the Cancun hotel strip and see how far you have to drive to find a public access beach. Go out on the strip and see how far you have to drive to find a place to park.
The big political concern is that the degraded beaches and environment in general will scare away the tourists. Duh. At some point, it certainly will have an impact.
Less than 20 years ago one could snorkel off the beach in Playa del Carmen and see coral and fish. No more. Now that same beach is a boat launch.
It 's true the snow birds will still come to the Riviera Maya because it 's just too cold back in Chicago in the winter. And the Germans will come to sunburn their posteriors.
But wise up developers. At some point even the insane Germans will begin to look at other, less spoiled areas. Belize, Honduras, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala and Nicaragua would love the business.
And they still have beaches.
A Guide to Austin 's Greenbelts
On the eastern edge of the Edwards plateau lies one of Austin 's greatest treasures: the Barton Creek Greenbelt. After millions of years, the runoff of rainwater carved a canyon into the plateau, and created one of Austin 's treasures.
The most popular of Austin 's greenbelts, the Barton Creek greenbelt is just shy of 8 miles long, and covers 809 acres. The greenbelt runs from Zilker Park downtown, to the rocky entrance of Camp Craft Road, just off of the Capital of Texas Highway, with several entrance points in between. Austinites looking for outdoor activities head to the greenbelt every day of the year.
The creek running through the middle of the greenbelt has attracted people to its waters for several years. The Tonkawa and Apache tribes were drawn to the abundant fresh water, as were other Native Americans for thousands of years. William Uncle Billy 's Barton settled in the area in 1837, and what was known as Spring Creek came to be known as Barton Creek.
Today, many are still drawn to the waters of Barton Creek and its several popular swimming holes, most looking to escape the harsh Texas sun. Though the busiest of the swimming areas is Barton Springs pool in Zilker park, places such as Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls offer not only cool waters, but beautiful sheer cliffs and a more secluded setting as well. The pool at Gus Fruh park gathers crowds of families with young children and dogs because of its section of ankle-deep water, and a younger crowd that enjoys its long, deep section that makes for good swimming, and a rope swing for the more adventurous types.
Closer to Zilker park lies Campbell 's hole, with its pebbly beach, and rumored to be visited by Robert E. Lee, and outlaws Bonnie and Clyde. During seasons of heavy rainfall, the current is strong and water level is high, which allows tubers to ride the creek through the city, a recreation usually only achieved out of town on much larger rivers.
The Barton Creek greenbelt also offers many trails throughout the area that differ in size from tight, rocky ledges to widths one could deem drivable. The trails wind through sycamore groves, along the creek bed, through limestone bluffs hiding many caves, and deep into forests of juniper and oak trees. Walkers, runners, and mountain bikers all share the same paths through an oasis that lies within walking distance of Mopac, while seeming very far removed.
The serious runners ascend the Hill of Life, the steepest hill on the trail, known to make runners stronger, and its rocky surface preps them for off road races. The limestone cliffs of the greenbelt beckon rock climbers from around the city, with at least six different areas, such as Seismic Wall, New Wall and Great Wall, set up as climbing zones, with routes bolted into the side of the rock.
The greenbelt is known for having a very sensitive ecosystem, and drinking alcohol within its borders was outlawed in 1997 by the Parks and Recreation department since the park staff picked up 18 cubic yards of garbage a week, with 75 percent of the trash turning up as beer bottles and cans.
Concerned citizens have done a good job at keeping city growth at bay by forming groups such as the Save our Springs Alliance to protect the quality of water coming off of development in the fragile Barton Springs watershed. Though the population of Austin is increasing dramatically, the Barton Creek Greenbelt has been relatively unharmed by the city 's rapid development, and welcomes all Austinites, new and old, to come play.
The most popular of Austin 's greenbelts, the Barton Creek greenbelt is just shy of 8 miles long, and covers 809 acres. The greenbelt runs from Zilker Park downtown, to the rocky entrance of Camp Craft Road, just off of the Capital of Texas Highway, with several entrance points in between. Austinites looking for outdoor activities head to the greenbelt every day of the year.
The creek running through the middle of the greenbelt has attracted people to its waters for several years. The Tonkawa and Apache tribes were drawn to the abundant fresh water, as were other Native Americans for thousands of years. William Uncle Billy 's Barton settled in the area in 1837, and what was known as Spring Creek came to be known as Barton Creek.
Today, many are still drawn to the waters of Barton Creek and its several popular swimming holes, most looking to escape the harsh Texas sun. Though the busiest of the swimming areas is Barton Springs pool in Zilker park, places such as Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls offer not only cool waters, but beautiful sheer cliffs and a more secluded setting as well. The pool at Gus Fruh park gathers crowds of families with young children and dogs because of its section of ankle-deep water, and a younger crowd that enjoys its long, deep section that makes for good swimming, and a rope swing for the more adventurous types.
Closer to Zilker park lies Campbell 's hole, with its pebbly beach, and rumored to be visited by Robert E. Lee, and outlaws Bonnie and Clyde. During seasons of heavy rainfall, the current is strong and water level is high, which allows tubers to ride the creek through the city, a recreation usually only achieved out of town on much larger rivers.
The Barton Creek greenbelt also offers many trails throughout the area that differ in size from tight, rocky ledges to widths one could deem drivable. The trails wind through sycamore groves, along the creek bed, through limestone bluffs hiding many caves, and deep into forests of juniper and oak trees. Walkers, runners, and mountain bikers all share the same paths through an oasis that lies within walking distance of Mopac, while seeming very far removed.
The serious runners ascend the Hill of Life, the steepest hill on the trail, known to make runners stronger, and its rocky surface preps them for off road races. The limestone cliffs of the greenbelt beckon rock climbers from around the city, with at least six different areas, such as Seismic Wall, New Wall and Great Wall, set up as climbing zones, with routes bolted into the side of the rock.
The greenbelt is known for having a very sensitive ecosystem, and drinking alcohol within its borders was outlawed in 1997 by the Parks and Recreation department since the park staff picked up 18 cubic yards of garbage a week, with 75 percent of the trash turning up as beer bottles and cans.
Concerned citizens have done a good job at keeping city growth at bay by forming groups such as the Save our Springs Alliance to protect the quality of water coming off of development in the fragile Barton Springs watershed. Though the population of Austin is increasing dramatically, the Barton Creek Greenbelt has been relatively unharmed by the city 's rapid development, and welcomes all Austinites, new and old, to come play.
Bamboo: The Ultimate Construction Product
In the U.S., most people probably think of bamboo in terms of a thin reed used for decorative purposes, such as a houseplant or rug for your living room. But the reality is that bamboo is a fine resource for use in construction. Bamboo is not really a tree; it 's a grass - a grass that can grow 120 feet tall and 13 inches thick. That 's quite an impressively growing grass, and one that can be used very effectively for building things.
Thick bamboo poles harvested from giant bamboo as described above are much stronger than comparably-sized wood - two to three times stronger, in fact. Even more impressive is the great multiple of building material that can be harvested from a single bamboo plant as compared to a wood tree. Whereas a tree generally requires anywhere from 10 to 50 years to become mature enough to harvest, a bamboo plant can be harvested in only 7 years, resulting in a total lifetime output of up to twenty times that of wood. In fact, in the time it takes a single bamboo plant to mature, its clump, which will include multiple stalks, can produce 200 poles. In the same size area of land, a bamboo crop can produce 20 times more timber than wood.
Bamboo can be used in the creation of flooring, structural beams, fencing, and wall paneling, among other construction-related items, not to mention its use for thousands of non-construction products, such as furniture, fuel, food, and musical instruments. One caveat to the use of bamboo in the U.S. for structural purposes is supplying materials that meet American building codes, which relate to issues such as having adequate strength to withstand wind, rain, and fire. In recent years, bamboo manufacturers have worked on new products that meet these standards. As technology continues to improve, the acceptance and use of bamboo as a structural material should only increase.
Building panels made from bamboo are sometimes reinforced with steel brace panels. These brace panels can be dressed with bamboo covers to hide the reinforcement. The steel plates are bolted to wood or concrete foundations. In addition, bamboo poles can be joined using mortise and tenon joinery, which involves two bamboo pins. The resulting structure, given bamboo 's increased strength relative to wood, is very strong and resistant to hurricanes and other forms of severe weather.
One interesting aspect of bamboo is that it can be molded much like a metal. A bamboo rod is normally very stiff, but if heat is applied evenly to a particular area, it can be gently bent. After cooling with air or water, the bamboo regains its stiffness with the new shape intact. This is definitely an art, as the heat must not be so great that it burns the plant fibers.
Though the focus of this article is on bamboo 's use in construction, it is definitely worth mentioning that bamboo is very good for the environment, generating 30% more oxygen than trees. Bamboo is an excellent resource for improving air quality, as it can reduce carbon dioxide by up to 12 tons per hectare (100 acres). So...bamboo is excellent for the environment, grows quickly and in abundance, and can be turned into building material that is much stronger than wood. Without question, in the coming years bamboo will grow in popularity as an environmentally friendly construction material in widespread use.
Thick bamboo poles harvested from giant bamboo as described above are much stronger than comparably-sized wood - two to three times stronger, in fact. Even more impressive is the great multiple of building material that can be harvested from a single bamboo plant as compared to a wood tree. Whereas a tree generally requires anywhere from 10 to 50 years to become mature enough to harvest, a bamboo plant can be harvested in only 7 years, resulting in a total lifetime output of up to twenty times that of wood. In fact, in the time it takes a single bamboo plant to mature, its clump, which will include multiple stalks, can produce 200 poles. In the same size area of land, a bamboo crop can produce 20 times more timber than wood.
Bamboo can be used in the creation of flooring, structural beams, fencing, and wall paneling, among other construction-related items, not to mention its use for thousands of non-construction products, such as furniture, fuel, food, and musical instruments. One caveat to the use of bamboo in the U.S. for structural purposes is supplying materials that meet American building codes, which relate to issues such as having adequate strength to withstand wind, rain, and fire. In recent years, bamboo manufacturers have worked on new products that meet these standards. As technology continues to improve, the acceptance and use of bamboo as a structural material should only increase.
Building panels made from bamboo are sometimes reinforced with steel brace panels. These brace panels can be dressed with bamboo covers to hide the reinforcement. The steel plates are bolted to wood or concrete foundations. In addition, bamboo poles can be joined using mortise and tenon joinery, which involves two bamboo pins. The resulting structure, given bamboo 's increased strength relative to wood, is very strong and resistant to hurricanes and other forms of severe weather.
One interesting aspect of bamboo is that it can be molded much like a metal. A bamboo rod is normally very stiff, but if heat is applied evenly to a particular area, it can be gently bent. After cooling with air or water, the bamboo regains its stiffness with the new shape intact. This is definitely an art, as the heat must not be so great that it burns the plant fibers.
Though the focus of this article is on bamboo 's use in construction, it is definitely worth mentioning that bamboo is very good for the environment, generating 30% more oxygen than trees. Bamboo is an excellent resource for improving air quality, as it can reduce carbon dioxide by up to 12 tons per hectare (100 acres). So...bamboo is excellent for the environment, grows quickly and in abundance, and can be turned into building material that is much stronger than wood. Without question, in the coming years bamboo will grow in popularity as an environmentally friendly construction material in widespread use.
When Disaster Strikes and Dealing with Emergencies
Did you know that most injuries during disasters are caused not by the actual event but by lack of planning and lack of appropriate management? This means that in any major event, individuals have a huge impact on whether and how they survive. Because most people will face an emergency situation at some point in their lifetime, learning how to deal with major disasters is an essential skill. Here are a few tips for dealing with natural and manmade disasters alike:
Remain Calm
However difficult this may be, it is most important that you remain calm during a major emergency. When people are panicked, they become irrational, making life-endangering decisions and major mistakes. If you find yourself feeling unstable, take a few deep breaths and try to remove yourself from the situation momentarily until you regain your composure. Always act logically instead of emotionally, and consider the consequences of your actions before taking any major steps.
Provide for Your Immediate Safety
Once you are calm, your next thought should be to provide a safe space for yourself and your loved ones. In some cases this may mean a different room of the house; in other situations, you may have to evacuate. Whatever your situation, you need to secure a safe space before thinking about anything else. If you must leave your home, plan your exit carefully, remembering that larger routes such as freeways may be clogged with other fleeing people. Bring along what pieces of your survival kit you can safely fit in your vehicle, but don't overload your vehicle at time you most need it.
Notify Authorities
If police, fire, and medical personnel have not been notified, now is the time to inform them. Sometimes this is as easy as calling 9-1-1; at other times, this may involve physically finding emergency personnel. Although you should not endanger yourself pursuing help in a disaster, relief workers and supplies will not be available until the appropriate agencies have been made aware of the situation.
Staying Alive
Once you are physically safe and help is on its way, you should provide for your most basic bodily needs. This includes shelter and warmth, clean food, clean water, and clean air. If you have a survival kit, this will be as easy as locating and opening it. Otherwise, you will have to be more imaginative and use whatever you can find around you. Don't be embarrassed to ask for help if you are in a public place. The key is maintaining calm and using creativity.
Protecting Property
At this point, you should tend to protect your property as well as you can. Turn off gas and utilities if you fear leaks. Shut off appliances that may malfunction. Keep in mind that common things like electricity can be deadly in a disaster situation. If you must leave home, lock the house securely. Although protecting and caring for property should come only after protecting and caring for people, it is still a wise decision. Remember that you will have a life after the disaster, and adjusting will be that much easier if you have not lost everything.
Communicating with Help
In a major emergency, communicating with help may be as easy as stepping outside your home. Otherwise, a hand-wound or battery-operated radio can help keep you informed. Keep the radio on at all times, as it is important to be aware of any new developments in an emergency. If you need help, a small whistle can attract attention and guide rescuers to your location. If you already have an emergency survival kit, both of these items should be included in it. Often phone lines will be clogged either from damaged systems or overuse, so do not count on having a cell phone or even a traditional phone to communicate.
Contacting Family and Friends
Do you know who to call in case of emergency? It is important before an emergency to establish a procedure for communicating during disasters. One way of dealing with this is to have a message person who will be responsible for keeping track of all family members involved. As soon as possible, contact loved ones to let them know you are okay so they do not endanger themselves looking for you.
The keys to surviving a disaster are remaining calm and being prepared. Maintaining composure will help you make life-saving decisions and find creative solutions to any challenges that arise. If you have already prepared yourself with a well-stocked survival kit, you can wait out the emergency with confidence and emerge physically and emotionally unharmed.
Remain Calm
However difficult this may be, it is most important that you remain calm during a major emergency. When people are panicked, they become irrational, making life-endangering decisions and major mistakes. If you find yourself feeling unstable, take a few deep breaths and try to remove yourself from the situation momentarily until you regain your composure. Always act logically instead of emotionally, and consider the consequences of your actions before taking any major steps.
Provide for Your Immediate Safety
Once you are calm, your next thought should be to provide a safe space for yourself and your loved ones. In some cases this may mean a different room of the house; in other situations, you may have to evacuate. Whatever your situation, you need to secure a safe space before thinking about anything else. If you must leave your home, plan your exit carefully, remembering that larger routes such as freeways may be clogged with other fleeing people. Bring along what pieces of your survival kit you can safely fit in your vehicle, but don't overload your vehicle at time you most need it.
Notify Authorities
If police, fire, and medical personnel have not been notified, now is the time to inform them. Sometimes this is as easy as calling 9-1-1; at other times, this may involve physically finding emergency personnel. Although you should not endanger yourself pursuing help in a disaster, relief workers and supplies will not be available until the appropriate agencies have been made aware of the situation.
Staying Alive
Once you are physically safe and help is on its way, you should provide for your most basic bodily needs. This includes shelter and warmth, clean food, clean water, and clean air. If you have a survival kit, this will be as easy as locating and opening it. Otherwise, you will have to be more imaginative and use whatever you can find around you. Don't be embarrassed to ask for help if you are in a public place. The key is maintaining calm and using creativity.
Protecting Property
At this point, you should tend to protect your property as well as you can. Turn off gas and utilities if you fear leaks. Shut off appliances that may malfunction. Keep in mind that common things like electricity can be deadly in a disaster situation. If you must leave home, lock the house securely. Although protecting and caring for property should come only after protecting and caring for people, it is still a wise decision. Remember that you will have a life after the disaster, and adjusting will be that much easier if you have not lost everything.
Communicating with Help
In a major emergency, communicating with help may be as easy as stepping outside your home. Otherwise, a hand-wound or battery-operated radio can help keep you informed. Keep the radio on at all times, as it is important to be aware of any new developments in an emergency. If you need help, a small whistle can attract attention and guide rescuers to your location. If you already have an emergency survival kit, both of these items should be included in it. Often phone lines will be clogged either from damaged systems or overuse, so do not count on having a cell phone or even a traditional phone to communicate.
Contacting Family and Friends
Do you know who to call in case of emergency? It is important before an emergency to establish a procedure for communicating during disasters. One way of dealing with this is to have a message person who will be responsible for keeping track of all family members involved. As soon as possible, contact loved ones to let them know you are okay so they do not endanger themselves looking for you.
The keys to surviving a disaster are remaining calm and being prepared. Maintaining composure will help you make life-saving decisions and find creative solutions to any challenges that arise. If you have already prepared yourself with a well-stocked survival kit, you can wait out the emergency with confidence and emerge physically and emotionally unharmed.
Tips on Going Green within the Home and hence Save Some Money
Why all this discussion about going green first of all you may be asking? Well simply put, more and more people these days are very concerned about doing what they can to lower their fuel bills, use energy more wisely and trying to reduce the amount of garbage that ends up in the landfill. The whole point of going green is to find some best practices, whether they are at home, at your place of business or simply in our everyday lives that will help us to achieve this goal. So here are a few random tips looking at cars and the home to get the reader started.
With respect to cars you can:
1. Keep the air filter clean:
o Just like humans, cars and vehicles need to breathe properly also. The dirtier the air filter the harder the vehicle will have to work thus burning more gas and hurting your wallet even more.
2. Car pooling with people who you like:
o Obviously if there is another passenger in your car, that is one less car off the road if he or she is accustomed to driving. Remember though to let your passengers know that they have to respect your vehicle, do not let them slam your car doors or let your doors slam against a wall, other cars or stationary objects. You might end up spending more money fixing the damages than what you might be trying to save by going green.
Also remember that with more people in your car, you will have higher gas expenses but considerably less gas will be used compared to having your passenger drive their own car. Ask your car pooling buddies if they will pitch in for gas, since gas seems to be going up all over the world and probably will not return to levels which we are used to.
3. Hand wash your own car:
o Many of us love our cars and some but not all, wash our cars at home. It is true there are car washes at your local garage or gas station but there are still many countries where it is not the custom to go to a car wash. So for those who still wash their own car by hand, try using a bucket and water instead of the hose.
In other words, fill the bucket with some water and get a sponge and wash the car yourself. You can use a scrub brush for the tires since that surface is tougher. You will be amazed at how far a bucket of water can go and you will not constantly have the water running when the hose is not in use.
In your home there are many possibilities but a few are as follows:
1. Recycle your glass and plastic bottles:
o Even if you are the one who does not go to the recycling center, there is nothing wrong with putting your bottles into separate bags and placing them by the trash. In many cities around the world, the less fortunate collect bottles and return them to the recycling center themselves to collect the few cents per dollar.
Help do your part by separating the bottles into their own bags, instead of having such people go through your garbage looking for bottles and causing a mess on the sidewalk or around your garbage collecting area.
2. Find creative ways to use items:
o Think of a way to reuse items before throwing them out. If you ship things frequently, maybe hold onto clean items such as egg boxes, cartons that are washed out or simply boxes that you may receive. These can be reused for shipping and packaging purposes.
3. Solar heating:
o Use a solar heating system for your water, if available in your country. In many developing countries such as certain islands in the Caribbean, they have been using solar heating for decades now. You basically have a tank of water on your roof, with solar panels connected to it and the heat from the sun heats the water which is stored in the tank.
True that in countries which have the winter season or where it is not hot all year around, some sort of backup system will have to be used. But the point is, for those few months of spring, summer and fall where it is possible to have the warmth of the sun to heat your water; this is a viable and cheap alternative.
Obviously, there are many other areas which you can look at whether it be with your electronics, personal self with respect to walking instead of driving, you can look at generating your electricity at home with the use of home based wind wills and even with the food you feed your pets.
I hope this article has allowed people to realize that it is the simple things which can allow all of us to get started on going green within the home and our businesses and that we can help create or leave behind a better Earth for future generations.
With respect to cars you can:
1. Keep the air filter clean:
o Just like humans, cars and vehicles need to breathe properly also. The dirtier the air filter the harder the vehicle will have to work thus burning more gas and hurting your wallet even more.
2. Car pooling with people who you like:
o Obviously if there is another passenger in your car, that is one less car off the road if he or she is accustomed to driving. Remember though to let your passengers know that they have to respect your vehicle, do not let them slam your car doors or let your doors slam against a wall, other cars or stationary objects. You might end up spending more money fixing the damages than what you might be trying to save by going green.
Also remember that with more people in your car, you will have higher gas expenses but considerably less gas will be used compared to having your passenger drive their own car. Ask your car pooling buddies if they will pitch in for gas, since gas seems to be going up all over the world and probably will not return to levels which we are used to.
3. Hand wash your own car:
o Many of us love our cars and some but not all, wash our cars at home. It is true there are car washes at your local garage or gas station but there are still many countries where it is not the custom to go to a car wash. So for those who still wash their own car by hand, try using a bucket and water instead of the hose.
In other words, fill the bucket with some water and get a sponge and wash the car yourself. You can use a scrub brush for the tires since that surface is tougher. You will be amazed at how far a bucket of water can go and you will not constantly have the water running when the hose is not in use.
In your home there are many possibilities but a few are as follows:
1. Recycle your glass and plastic bottles:
o Even if you are the one who does not go to the recycling center, there is nothing wrong with putting your bottles into separate bags and placing them by the trash. In many cities around the world, the less fortunate collect bottles and return them to the recycling center themselves to collect the few cents per dollar.
Help do your part by separating the bottles into their own bags, instead of having such people go through your garbage looking for bottles and causing a mess on the sidewalk or around your garbage collecting area.
2. Find creative ways to use items:
o Think of a way to reuse items before throwing them out. If you ship things frequently, maybe hold onto clean items such as egg boxes, cartons that are washed out or simply boxes that you may receive. These can be reused for shipping and packaging purposes.
3. Solar heating:
o Use a solar heating system for your water, if available in your country. In many developing countries such as certain islands in the Caribbean, they have been using solar heating for decades now. You basically have a tank of water on your roof, with solar panels connected to it and the heat from the sun heats the water which is stored in the tank.
True that in countries which have the winter season or where it is not hot all year around, some sort of backup system will have to be used. But the point is, for those few months of spring, summer and fall where it is possible to have the warmth of the sun to heat your water; this is a viable and cheap alternative.
Obviously, there are many other areas which you can look at whether it be with your electronics, personal self with respect to walking instead of driving, you can look at generating your electricity at home with the use of home based wind wills and even with the food you feed your pets.
I hope this article has allowed people to realize that it is the simple things which can allow all of us to get started on going green within the home and our businesses and that we can help create or leave behind a better Earth for future generations.
Tchaikovsky Would Have Loved My Mockingbird!
Yesterday I listened to the happiest mockingbird in creation. Perched on a limb in a spring time maple tree, he cast a spell on his audience below. We listened to song after song until he wearied of all the applause and left the stage. In a few moments he came back for a curtain call and once again was greeted with applause.
Enchanted by the musical ability of this particular bird, I and a friend sat beneath the tree for a half hour and absorbed every note he sang. He had to have realized that he had an enthralled audience for he performed as if it were a command performance for the queen!
This bird was loud! Everyone in the neighborhood must have heard it and marveled at the different sounds that he was singing. I commented to my friend that the bird had voiced at least 50 different sounds, including one wolf whistle. I learned later that a Mockingbird can master up to 180 different calls and up to 200 song types in only a few months.
Yesterday was one of those beautiful sunny early spring mornings that we have down here in the south during the month of March. Yellow Forsythia and white Bradford Pear blossoms decorated the back yard as if placed there by a master landscape engineer. On reflection I suspect that they were. Yellow, white and pastel daffodils stretched toward the sun as we listened to a concert by an artist that knew he had captivated his audience.
I assume that it was a male bird that was welcoming spring with such passion. Female Mockingbirds do sing, but not as loudly or with as much enthusiasm as the male bird. Males sing all through the day and sometimes during the night in the spring and fall, especially if they're unmated males.
Mockingbirds are everywhere in North America and they're famous for being able to imitate other birds and even some animals. Sounds of frogs, cell phone ringing tones and even the imitation of a barking dog has been part of their repertoire. My bird has even learned the sound of my car horn; at least I think that 's the sound I heard.
The Mockingbird in my back yard was putting on the performance of a lifetime just for me I thought, but I've learned differently. The endless songs during the spring are simply a vocal marking of his mating territory as he flies from tree to tree and serenades any female within hearing distance.
If the night is warm and there 's a full moon, you'll probably hear an unmated male bird sharing his enthusiasm with the world. The female sings too, though the male is much louder. The one I saw in the tree was obviously a male. He was loud, he was boastful and he had a beautiful voice!
When the Mockingbird finally finds a mate, they build a nest of grass, feathers, rags and just about anything soft. Their nest is never far from the ground and the 4 to 6 eggs the female lays are bluish green with spattered spots of brown. Bushes and small ornamental trees are favorite places to begin a family.
Mockingbirds do not like anyone to get too close to their home, especially if the nest is filled with eggs or newly hatched birds. A couple of years ago my cat Spike was listening to the chirping of baby birds coming from a holly tree, when he was dive bombed by an angry momma Mockingbird. I'm guessing it was the mother because it 's hard to tell the difference between the male and the female; they both look alike.
Spike lost all interest in the nest in the tree after being pecked hard on the top of his head by the protecting Mockingbird. He stills walks carefully around that part of the yard, even though that nest has been gone for a year.
Anyone who is familiar with Tchaikovsky 's 1812 Overture can hear the cheering crowds, bells ringing and the town 's people singing and rejoicing after the Russian Army turned back the French invasion of Russia at the Battle of Borodino. My Mockingbird would have fitted right in and no doubt would have made that piece of music even more recognizable than it is today!
Enchanted by the musical ability of this particular bird, I and a friend sat beneath the tree for a half hour and absorbed every note he sang. He had to have realized that he had an enthralled audience for he performed as if it were a command performance for the queen!
This bird was loud! Everyone in the neighborhood must have heard it and marveled at the different sounds that he was singing. I commented to my friend that the bird had voiced at least 50 different sounds, including one wolf whistle. I learned later that a Mockingbird can master up to 180 different calls and up to 200 song types in only a few months.
Yesterday was one of those beautiful sunny early spring mornings that we have down here in the south during the month of March. Yellow Forsythia and white Bradford Pear blossoms decorated the back yard as if placed there by a master landscape engineer. On reflection I suspect that they were. Yellow, white and pastel daffodils stretched toward the sun as we listened to a concert by an artist that knew he had captivated his audience.
I assume that it was a male bird that was welcoming spring with such passion. Female Mockingbirds do sing, but not as loudly or with as much enthusiasm as the male bird. Males sing all through the day and sometimes during the night in the spring and fall, especially if they're unmated males.
Mockingbirds are everywhere in North America and they're famous for being able to imitate other birds and even some animals. Sounds of frogs, cell phone ringing tones and even the imitation of a barking dog has been part of their repertoire. My bird has even learned the sound of my car horn; at least I think that 's the sound I heard.
The Mockingbird in my back yard was putting on the performance of a lifetime just for me I thought, but I've learned differently. The endless songs during the spring are simply a vocal marking of his mating territory as he flies from tree to tree and serenades any female within hearing distance.
If the night is warm and there 's a full moon, you'll probably hear an unmated male bird sharing his enthusiasm with the world. The female sings too, though the male is much louder. The one I saw in the tree was obviously a male. He was loud, he was boastful and he had a beautiful voice!
When the Mockingbird finally finds a mate, they build a nest of grass, feathers, rags and just about anything soft. Their nest is never far from the ground and the 4 to 6 eggs the female lays are bluish green with spattered spots of brown. Bushes and small ornamental trees are favorite places to begin a family.
Mockingbirds do not like anyone to get too close to their home, especially if the nest is filled with eggs or newly hatched birds. A couple of years ago my cat Spike was listening to the chirping of baby birds coming from a holly tree, when he was dive bombed by an angry momma Mockingbird. I'm guessing it was the mother because it 's hard to tell the difference between the male and the female; they both look alike.
Spike lost all interest in the nest in the tree after being pecked hard on the top of his head by the protecting Mockingbird. He stills walks carefully around that part of the yard, even though that nest has been gone for a year.
Anyone who is familiar with Tchaikovsky 's 1812 Overture can hear the cheering crowds, bells ringing and the town 's people singing and rejoicing after the Russian Army turned back the French invasion of Russia at the Battle of Borodino. My Mockingbird would have fitted right in and no doubt would have made that piece of music even more recognizable than it is today!
The Magnificent National Parks of Andalucia
Besides great sunshine, delicious cuisine and a rich monumental heritage, Andalucia also offers its visitors ample opportunities to revel in its diverse flora and fauna that abound in its two magnificent national parks, 23 natural parks and 31 assorted natural reserves. The two national parks; the Parque Nacional de Donana and the Parque Nacional de Sierra Nevada are designated as such because of their vast range of geological and climatic diversity that has given rise to unique ecosystems comprising of desert areas, woods, mountains, dunes and wetlands. With minimum man-made alterations, both parks possess great scientific, ecological and educational importance.
Parque Nacional de Donana
Declared a national park way back in 1969, Parque Nacional de Donana or The Donana National Park in Andalucia is one of Europe 's most important ecological systems. Of special importance are the wetlands and the marshes that are an important breeding and resting place for migratory and local birds.
This 507 kilometre park is situated mainly in the south eastern part of the Huelva province of Andalucia, with a small portion falling in the Sevilla province.
The Donna National Park has three predominating landscape forms - the marshlands or the marisma, the dry desert like heath with its fixed dunes or coto, and the area near the coastline with its moving dunes or the dunas moviles.
The vegetation that can be seen in the park is determined by its different ecosystems, depending on whether it is dunes, fresh water and lakes or sandy grounds. Rich in flora and fauna, the Donna National Park is home to a large number of unique species, including the Lynx pardina. This exotic carnivore is endemic to the Iberian-Peninsula and has been adopted as the emblem of the Park.
Parque Nacional de Sierra Nevada
Designated as a national park in 1999, the Parque Nacional de Sierra Nevada is the second national park in Andalucia. Almost eight percent of this mountainous National Park lies in the province of Granada and the rest in Almeria.
The snow-covered Mulhacen (3,482 m) and Veleta (3,392 m) two of the highest peaks of the Iberian Peninsula, lie in the middle of the majestic Sierra Nevada National Park. The extraordinary landscape of this area is a result of the erosion resulting from the melting of the glaciers on these mountain ranges as well as the forests and different areas of natural vegetation. While part of the mountainous zone is quite dry and arid, the rest, especially the wooded middle and the upper mountain regions of the park are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. In fact, more than twenty five per cent of the total species of plants found in Spain can be found in the Sierra Nevada National Park. Apart from this, the park is home to more than sixty plant species that are found only here and nowhere else. One of them is the spectacular Sierra Nevada violet.
The goose vulture, the falcon, the golden eagle are the main predatory birds found here while other feathered species like the great tit, the coal tit, the tomtit, the jaybird, the green woodpecker, larks and finches can also be found in abundance. The wooded region of the park is home to weasels, foxes, civets and badgers. The mountain goat is one of the most characteristic species found in the park.
Special vehicles are available for going up into the mountains while the more adventurous can join a trek on foot to reach the higher regions.
Both National Parks provide tourist facilities, including Visitor Information Centres, marked footpaths, paid camping sites, recreation areas with water and firewood, mountain bike tracks, marked footpaths, viewpoints, observatories and free camping sites.
Parque Nacional de Donana
Declared a national park way back in 1969, Parque Nacional de Donana or The Donana National Park in Andalucia is one of Europe 's most important ecological systems. Of special importance are the wetlands and the marshes that are an important breeding and resting place for migratory and local birds.
This 507 kilometre park is situated mainly in the south eastern part of the Huelva province of Andalucia, with a small portion falling in the Sevilla province.
The Donna National Park has three predominating landscape forms - the marshlands or the marisma, the dry desert like heath with its fixed dunes or coto, and the area near the coastline with its moving dunes or the dunas moviles.
The vegetation that can be seen in the park is determined by its different ecosystems, depending on whether it is dunes, fresh water and lakes or sandy grounds. Rich in flora and fauna, the Donna National Park is home to a large number of unique species, including the Lynx pardina. This exotic carnivore is endemic to the Iberian-Peninsula and has been adopted as the emblem of the Park.
Parque Nacional de Sierra Nevada
Designated as a national park in 1999, the Parque Nacional de Sierra Nevada is the second national park in Andalucia. Almost eight percent of this mountainous National Park lies in the province of Granada and the rest in Almeria.
The snow-covered Mulhacen (3,482 m) and Veleta (3,392 m) two of the highest peaks of the Iberian Peninsula, lie in the middle of the majestic Sierra Nevada National Park. The extraordinary landscape of this area is a result of the erosion resulting from the melting of the glaciers on these mountain ranges as well as the forests and different areas of natural vegetation. While part of the mountainous zone is quite dry and arid, the rest, especially the wooded middle and the upper mountain regions of the park are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. In fact, more than twenty five per cent of the total species of plants found in Spain can be found in the Sierra Nevada National Park. Apart from this, the park is home to more than sixty plant species that are found only here and nowhere else. One of them is the spectacular Sierra Nevada violet.
The goose vulture, the falcon, the golden eagle are the main predatory birds found here while other feathered species like the great tit, the coal tit, the tomtit, the jaybird, the green woodpecker, larks and finches can also be found in abundance. The wooded region of the park is home to weasels, foxes, civets and badgers. The mountain goat is one of the most characteristic species found in the park.
Special vehicles are available for going up into the mountains while the more adventurous can join a trek on foot to reach the higher regions.
Both National Parks provide tourist facilities, including Visitor Information Centres, marked footpaths, paid camping sites, recreation areas with water and firewood, mountain bike tracks, marked footpaths, viewpoints, observatories and free camping sites.
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