Leave the Leaves
And leave most everything else, too
We had our first significant rainfall the first part of September, signaling (possibly) the beginning of the end of the dry months that are an … Continue reading
Outdoors
Southern Loop
While I like to explore far and wide, sometimes it’s just nice to find a good hike near home. At the suggestion of my friend … Continue reading
Day-hike the PCT to Rosary Lakes
Hike, check the views and weigh in on roadless areas
The Pacific Crest Trail can sound like a daunting undertaking, especially when taken all together. There’s no need to feel intimidated. I’m no through-hiker, but … Continue reading
Pollinators, Love and Free Plants
Late summer flowers are workhorses in the garden
By Cynthia Lafferty Greetings fellow plant lovers! As summer wanes and we earnestly wait for fall rains, let’s look at some of our summer and … Continue reading
Exploring Lakes Near John Day
Hiking on Oregon’s east side
There’s a whole world of forests and mountains in eastern Oregon to visit if you’re needing a change of scenery this summer. Visiting requires a … Continue reading
Think Spring!
Yes, spring seems so far away, but not for the gardeners!
Now is the time to think about new plantings, especially flower bulbs. Longtime gardening columnist Rachel Foster gives us the best bulb catalogues to order … Continue reading
Discover Yellow Jacket Glade
Off the beaten path, a hike, wildlife habitat, wildflowers and more
Don’t be turned off by the name of this lovely 5.6-mile loop trail — Yellow Jacket Glade is not named after the annoying wasps that … Continue reading
Where are the Birds?
It’s not the summer doldrums, but dietary needs of bird babies that reduce feeder counts this time of year
By Dan and Barbara Gleason Summer always brings change to bird activity and the variety of birds in your backyard. Bird activity in yards, especially … Continue reading
Gordon Lakes
The wildlands of the South Santiam beckon
Sandwiched between the Willamette Valley and the high Cascades, the “old Cascades” — ancient mountains now eroded into cliffs and plateaus — offer some of … Continue reading
Healthy Soil
Start with good soil to grow good plants
By Alby Thoumsin In my work as an arborist, a large portion of what I do is consult with tree owners and talk about the … Continue reading