As I begin this article, the ticker on www.reuseit.com shows that 293,651,720,000 plastic bags have been consumed this year. Since the plastic bag first found its way into the back seats, kitchen cupboards, and spare space under the sink in American households, we have been consuming them at an alarming rate. Worldwide plastic bag consumption falls between 500 billion and 1 trillion bags annually. That breaks down to almost 1 million every minute.

Is Your Local Creek Dirty?
How Data Collection Can Save a Creek

A deadline is approaching. It isn't one most of us have heard about. August 30th is the last day the California State Water Resources Control Board will accept data submissions for the 2012 303(d) List. The what?

What's in Your Watershed?
The Brazen Burrowing Owl

Sighting an owl is a rare and thrilling experience given their nocturnal behavior--they're silent, reclusive characters that only come out at night in search of prey. Or so you thought. In fact, right here in the Bay Area we live alongside a curious little fellow you're likely to see in the daytime! But sadly, the Western Burrowing Owl, Athene cunicularia hypagaea, is no longer a common sight during the night or day. As grassy prairies turn to urban sprawl, their numbers dwindle. Thankfully, concerned bird lovers are taking action to rebuild burrowing owl habitat. Learning a bit about these unorthodox owls might motivate you to join in!

Growing Up in the Bay's Murky Waters
Eelgrass Plays a Key Role in Subtidal Ecosystem

Have you ever been walking along the shoreline and seen green patches of vegetation in the water? That's most likely eelgrass, Zostera marina, an underwater flowering plant that lives directly in the bay. Eelgrass is not simply another plant though; its effects on the San Francisco Bay are vital for a healthy ecosystem.

The Watershed Project • 1327 South 46th Street #155 • Richmond, CA 94804 • www.thewatershedproject.org

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The Watershed Project
1327 South 46th Street
155 Richmond Field Station
Richmond, CA 94804

Is Your Local Creek Dirty? How Data Collection Can Save a Creek

Is Your Local Creek Dirty?
How Data Collection Can Save a Creek