ScienceDaily (Feb. 26, 2008) — Tiny particles of pure silica coated with an active material could be used to remove toxic chemicals, bacteria, viruses, and other hazardous materials from water much more effectively and at lower cost than conventional water purification methods, according to researchers writing in the current issue of the International Journal of Nanotechnology.

Erosion-control holdouts being sought for project

In the Lake Tahoe Basin, the letters "BMP" can bring about various reactions.

Short for "best management practices," BMPs are methods prescribed by the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency to help developed properties function more like natural, undisturbed forest and meadowland. The TRPA believes that water conveyed to a lake by an undisturbed watershed usually is quite pure, because the watershed's soils and plants act as a natural water-purification system.

BMPs prescribed for residential properties usually fall into the following categories: vegetating and mulching bare, disturbed soils; infiltrating stormwater runoff from impervious surfaces; paving dirt driveways and roads; and stabilizing or retaining steep slopes and loose soils.

But for some of the 38,000 property owners in the basin who have not retrofitted their land for BMPs, the requirements can be harsh and expensive.

Electric Cooperatives of Northeast Arkansas

Turn down the thermostat especially when leaving your house and at night. Consider installing a timer so you don't have to remember to do it yourself. Set the temperature as low in the winter and as high in the summer as your comfort allows. Replace traditional incandescent light bulbs with energy-efficient compact fluorescent bulbs which are up to four times more energy efficient than incandescent bulbs and provide the same light levels. They also last up to nine times longer than standard incandescent bulbs. Turn off lights in any room you're not using, or consider installing timers, photo cells or occupancy sensors to reduce the amount of time your lights are on. Clean or replace filters on your furnace, air conditioner and heat pump regularly. Wash full loads of laundry using cold water when possible.