Category Archives: Public Health
Japanese Beetle eradication update
The Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) is a serious invasive insect pest that threatens Oregon and the western United States. The largest infestation of Japanese beetles ever found in the state was detected in 2016 around Cedar Mill, Bonny Slope, Oak Hills, and Bethany.
Let’s hear it for these teams!
To the people of our community, my Cedar Mill neighbors and I hope that other residents of the area—and around our region—will find a way to express our gratitude to the caregivers of Oregon.
Gardening in the drought
Looking around my garden, I am noticing the plants that are damaged from the heat event that we all endured recently. My water bill increased several times the last few months since I turned on my sprinkling system.
WashCo News August 2021
• BCC gives green light to develop comprehensive substance use treatment center
• What is Middle Housing?
Seniors speak out!
There seems to be a universal human drive to make connections with each other and find meaning in our daily experiences and challenges. In the days before the pandemic, people met in coffee houses, meeting rooms, and living rooms to share ideas and learn from each other. But even though COVID-19 changed the location of those gatherings, it didn’t stop people from coming together.
Public Safety News August 2021
• FEMA Grant-funds safety gear
• Mental Health Response Team expanding
Meet Jess Fong
We have been publicizing recycling events at Sunset High School for several months, and we got curious to learn more about one of the students behind this great community service.
Updated vaccination access for Washington County
For the latest information on how and where to get your COVID vaccination, visit the Washington County page here. See below if you don’t use a computer or need other help in scheduling your vaccination.
Earth Month editorial
With some effects of climate change already upon us, we challenge Washington County to view all their actions through the lens of climate.
If we don’t stop contributing to the problem, our efforts at achieving equity will be meaningless. The powerful will find ways to avoid the consequences, and the rest of us will have to adapt to a planet that may not support the life we want for ourselves, our children, and our grandchildren.
Washington County should establish a Climate Challenge Task Force to advise all county divisions on how to establish goals, make climate friendly decisions, and implement sustainable practices. The Task Force needs to include representatives from commerce, industry, development, science, and community organizations.
We understand that it will take time and effort, but we must begin now. If you agree, send a message to your Washington County Commissioner and to the Chair.
Why get vaccinated? Here’s what our neighbors say
The head of the CDC challenged us all to do our part to make sure we conquer COVID by getting folks vaccinated. I’ve included updated vaccination information above, but I’d also like to share some reasons to do it. Sometimes we’re motivated by knowing what our neighbors care about.
Dining out safely in Washington County
• What is the county’s responsibility in restaurant safety?
• How is HHS getting the updated guidance to county restaurants?
• Does it need to be translated? How many languages? Or are restaurant owners responsible for making sure all employees understand?
• Are there any regulations or guidance about ventilation in the indoor dining spaces?
• About mask wearing while dining and drinking?
• What enforcement powers does HHS have?
• How many staff can do that work?
• What’s the public’s role in reporting? Best practices?
• Aside from you and the state websites, are there other resources for restaurant owners that you know about? Professional groups, unions, etc?
Continuing the “Beetle Battle”
The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) is continuing its multi-year effort to eradicate the Japanese beetle, an invasive and destructive insect pest in your neighborhood in 2021. Thanks to your support and cooperation, we have had success in reducing the Japanese beetle populations in Oregon, but more efforts are required.
