Tag Archive: environmental

Straw Wattle – Stream Bank Restoration – Utah

Straw Wattle - Stream Bank Restoration - Utah

A picture of straw wattle placed along a stream in northern Utah, to prevent erosion, and restore vegetation to the stream bank.

Straw wattles are an effective tool in stream restoration projects, helping to stabilize banks, reduce erosion, and promote vegetation growth. These biodegradable, tube-shaped bundles of straw are placed along streambanks and slopes to slow water runoff, trap sediment, and encourage the establishment of native plants. By reducing soil displacement, they prevent further degradation of stream channels and contribute to improved water quality.

In stream restoration efforts, straw wattles are commonly used in combination with other erosion control measures, such as native plantings, rock reinforcements, and bioengineering techniques. They are particularly useful in newly restored or disturbed areas, where soil is vulnerable to erosion. As the wattles decompose over time, they enrich the soil and provide a stable foundation for long-term ecological recovery. Their cost-effectiveness and ease of installation make them a practical choice for conservationists, engineers, and land managers seeking to restore and protect aquatic ecosystems.

Midas Creek No Dumping Sign – South Jordan, Utah

Midas Creek No Dumping Sign - South Jordan, Utah

Midas Creek, part of the the Jordan River Watershed, originates in the Oquirrh Mountains near the former town of Lark and draws its name from a particular mine. It flows through the towns of South Jordan, Riverton and Herriman, in the Salt Lake Valley, which is part of the Wasatch Front.

No dumping signs are meant to prevent the disposal of trash, chemicals, or other pollutants into the water, which can harm aquatic ecosystems, endanger wildlife, and contaminate water supplies for nearby communities.

Dumping waste into rivers contributes to significant environmental problems, including water pollution, habitat destruction, and the disruption of natural ecosystems. Many areas enforce strict penalties for illegal dumping to protect these vital natural resources. Such signs often accompany educational campaigns or cleanup efforts to encourage environmental stewardship and raise awareness about the importance of keeping waterways clean.

An EV Charging Station – Wasatch Front – Utah

An EV Charging Station - Wasatch Front - Utah

An EV (electrical vehicle) charging station located in Murray, a city in the Salt Lake Valley of Utah, along the main metropolitan corridor of the Wasatch Front from Ogden to Provo.

Electric vehicle (EV) charging stations are critical components of the growing infrastructure supporting the transition to sustainable transportation. These stations provide the power needed to recharge the batteries of electric vehicles, enabling drivers to travel efficiently and with minimal environmental impact. Charging stations are typically categorized into three levels: Level 1, which uses standard household outlets and provides a slow charge; Level 2, which offers faster charging and is commonly found at homes, workplaces, and public locations; and Level 3 or DC fast chargers, designed for rapid charging along highways and in urban areas. As the demand for EVs increases, governments and private entities are investing heavily in expanding the network of charging stations, incorporating renewable energy sources, and integrating smart technologies to optimize charging efficiency and reduce grid strain. This infrastructure not only supports the adoption of electric vehicles but also plays a vital role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and fostering a cleaner, greener future.