A zoo is a great place to have fun and learn something new about the fascinating creatures of our world. But imagine how exciting it would be to get up close and personal with your favorite zoo animals. No more nose squished against the glass, just you, and the zoo. Zoo To You is an animal rescue center in Paso Robles that offers this rather unique experience. They care for a variety of exotic animals such as a bald eagle, a tiger, a bear, and snakes.

Zoo To You can turn an ordinary event into a sensational and educational one by bringing some of these amazing creatures.  Along with the animals comes passionate experts who can tell you all about their furry (or scaly) friends. Zoo To You can do all types of events, and have many specialized programs catered to educating school children.They are the beneficiary of all $5 entry donations to our Thursday, June 21st Eco Expo At Avila Bay Athletic Club & Spa. For more information: www.zootoyou.com or call: 805-391-0604

If you have high hopes for your summer garden this year, a raised bed can give your crops a boost in a number of ways. 1) Precise control over what soil your plants are grown in. 2) Allows for loose, airy soil that provides great drainage and helps air get to the roots. 3) By installing chicken wire at the bottom of the bed gophers are easily controlled. 4) Usually better yield than conventional home gardens. 5) All around easier to work on.

Building a raised bed is as simple as making a four-sided frame, about one to two feet tall, and filling it full of good soil. The easiest and most durable way to build one would be out of recycled cement blocks, bricks, or rocks. But the most common way is to build a frame out of wood. When building a raised bed out of wood, remember that the sturdier it is, the longer it will last. Using four 4x4’s as vertical frames and nailing on 2x6’s as the siding would make a great raised bed.

The cotton used in most fabrics requires tons of pesticides and water for growth. There are several fabric alternatives to cotton that are more eco-friendly. Here are three popular ones:

1.      Hemp – Probably the most well known alternative fabric, hemp grows quickly, doesn’t require much water, and is very pest-resistant. It also grows densely, which eliminates weeds and the need for harmful pesticides.  Hemp has historically been used for rope making because it is extremely long lasting and durable.

2.      Bamboo – This versatile plant can be spun into an extremely soft, durable, anti-microbial material. It’s also moisture and odor resistant. Check out bamboo clothing, diapers, sheets, and more!

3.      Organic Cotton – Grown using far fewer pesticides and water, organic cotton is much better for the environment, if you want to stick to the old standard. Just make sure you’re buying certified organic, fair trade organic cotton treated with eco-friendly or natural dyes

Like most products claiming to be “eco-friendly,” it’s important to research your fabric and clothing companies before making a purchase. Make sure no harsh chemicals are used in the growing or manufacturing process.

Sources:

http://naturalhealthcare.ca/eco_and_environmentally_friendly_fashion.phtml

http://www.greenlivingonline.com/article/guide-natural-and-eco-friendly-fabrics

Grass-fed beef is slightly more expensive, but is much better for you because the cows are raised on pasture without the use of synthetic hormones, toxic pesticides, genetic modifications, cloning, or antibiotics. Aside from all of those glaring benefits, grass-fed beef also has four times the amount of healthy fats and omega 3’s.