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Feb. 23, 1970 - A step closer to Ecology's creation
On Feb. 23, 1970, Gov. Dan Evans signed into law a bill creating Washington's new Department of Ecology, set to open July 1 of that year.
Feb. 12, 1970 – a landmark day for environmental protection
On Feb. 12, we're marking the 50th anniversary of the Legislature passing the bill that created the Department of Ecology.
From crashes to drug labs: A look inside Ecology's Spill Response Program
Our Spills Program responds to spill emergencies, inspects chemical storage facilities, and cleans up a range of contaminated sites across Washington. Responder Sam Hunn gives us an inside look.
Crews safely remove, detonate dangerous chemical device
Homeowner finds poisonous theft deterrent in old safe. Ecology takes the chemicals and detonates them for safety.
Floodplain redesign delivers downstream benefits for all
This deliberate logjam is one piece of a plan to restore a functional floodplain along a three mile stretch of the North Fork Touchet River in Southeast Washington.
Slime on river rocks is a forensics tool for environmental scientists
While most of us may not appreciate the slime that grows on river rocks, Dr. William Hobbs and his colleagues have found slime useful for investigating the sources of toxic chemicals in the water.
Looking upriver: What's next for the Walla Walla watershed?
In October, stakeholders from Washington and Oregon will refocus and build on the Walla Walla Watershed Management Partnership to create a long-term water strategy.
Dust buster: A plan to manage dust in and near Wallula
Near the Tri-Cities, southwest winds pick up dust and send it through Kennewick and into Wallula at times.
Use caution if your local lake has a colorful coating
Reports of toxic blue-green algae blooms are beginning to surface east of the Cascades.
Wait, how can there be a drought when it’s raining?
Residents of Spokane and the southeast experienced a relatively damp spring, while much of Western and Central Washington have seen warmer than normal temperatures and low precipitation since April.