Oregon Field Guide — Opal Creek, Stormwater Management, Backyard Bird-Feeding, C.A.S.T.

Episode 912

Opal Creek: For years, Opal Creek symbolized the battle between loggers and those opposed to cutting old growth trees. The 35,000 acre watershed (including the Little North Santaim river) contains the largest intact low elevation old growth forest on the west coast. But the area also has a rich history and stunning scenery. Friends of Opal Creek take us on a tour of this now protected jewel east of Falem in the foothills of the Cascade mountains.; Read More and Watch this story

Stormwater Management: Find out how a local company is using leaves to help keep our streams and waterways clean. The EPA has identified non-point source pollution, primarily oil, grease and heavy metals from trucks and automobiles as a major source (75%) of pollution in our nation's rivers. Engineers Jim Lenhart and Bill Jabs have developed a filtering system to address the needs of stormwater management.; Read More and Watch this story

Backyard Bird-Feeding: Feeding has no real impact on wild birds, neither harming nor helping them. It's really for the humans who love to watch the nuthatches, jays, chickadees and finches. Meet some enthusiasts for whom one or two birdfeeders are not enough.; Read More and Watch this story

C.A.S.T.: For some families, a fishing trip is too hard to do on their own. Catch a Special Thrill (C.A.S.T.) makes it possible for kids who have disabilities or are seriously ill to get out on a boat and go fishing.; Read More and Watch this story