Archive | December, 2009

Recording Quarries

A quarry may be anything from a rock outcrop that has been quarried once to a highly prized and carefully managed source which may have been quarried over generations and to which access was tightly controlled. In general, Indigenous people preferred particular kinds of stone when making artifacts.

Very fine-grained stone not only makes the sharpest artifacts, but is also the easiest to knap successfully. Chert, mudstone, silcrete, quartzite and chalcedony were all preferred materials for stone artifacts and thus also for stone artifact quarries. Checklist for recording stone artifact quarries Record the following:. the material form of the quarry (Is it a rock outcrop? River cobbles?); the site location (e.g. is it on a hilltop?)

Beside a creek or river? On a slope?);. the particular features of the quarry (e.g. can you see pits from quarrying activity? Are there flaking or knapping floors there? Are there other imported raw materials at the site? Can you see flake removal scars on boulders?); if there is surface artefactual material, what the artifact density is; whether there are other stone artifacts present.

If so, what are they? What is the percentage of cortex on these artifacts?. If the site is an outcrop, an estimate of the percentage that is worked; any potential sources of damage to the site; if known, the distance to isolated artifacts or sites in the vicinity.

If it is a survey tree, note the surveyor’s mark. If possible, you should also try to attribute an origin to the scar: is it definitely Indigenous? Probably? Possibly natural? If you think that the scar is natural, note down what features might have caused the scarring (e.g. a fallen branch, lightning strike, poor/rocky soil, vehicle activity, etc.).

Dan has been writing articles for nearly 5 years. Come and take a look at his latest website over at http://kichleroutdoorlighting.info which helps people find the best Kichler Outdoor Lighting and info they are looking about Kichler Outdoor Lighting

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/recording-quarries-1635175.html

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Wooden Porch Swings

Wooden porch swings are for fun and relaxation and even though it is still winter, it is time to start thinking about them. Our wooden porch swings will be hanging on our front porches sooner than we think. When I was growing up I can remember visiting an uncle on the east coast who had a wonderful wooden porch swing. Today a hanging wooden swing on a front porch is a rare thing to see. Most new homes do not have front porches.

There are some realtors today think that having a wooden front porch swing is a valuable asset to selling your house. They bring across a feeling of fun and relaxation. Have you ever noticed how much fun people are having while sitting on porch swing? Even though most houses today do not have front porches, people would buy free standing swings and place them in their front yards. It does look like things are starting to change a little; many builders of new houses have started putting front porches back on the houses. I think we will start seeing more and more families using wooden front porch swings as a way of having more family time. The hanging type of swing, as you know, will need a sturdy front porch roof to secure the screws and chains for the swing.

Front porch swings have a way of being very cozy and they create an atmosphere of relaxation. They are comfortable place for reading the morning newspaper and having a cup of coffee or two to start the day. They are a pleasant place to listen to the rain on a balmy wet day. They are also a good way to visit with your neighbors on a warm spring day or a cool summer evening. On a lazy summer afternoon porch swings are romantic while swinging with a loved one. It is fun to add cushions to them and relax and gaze at the stars in the evening.

It is important to think about a few things before purchasing a wooden porch swing. Is it going to be hanging on a front porch or sitting in a garden? If you are going to purchase a hanging wooden porch swing you are going to need the proper hardware such as screws, and/or ropes and chains for hanging. A wooden porch swing does not mean it has to hang from a front porch roof; it can be a free standing model for a garden, a deck, or patio. You also need to decide if you are going to use cushions for your swing and what type of wood you prefer.

There are a number of wood types that are used for wooden porch swings and they are wicker, cypress, pine, cedar, teak and alder. Wicker porch swings are charming and old world and can easily be painted. Cypress porch swings hold paint longer that other woods; alder porch swings are also easy to paint. Both cypress and alder are very durable woods for swings. Cedar porch swings are very popular because it has the ability to withstand the weather and the natural oils it has helps prevent decay. Their color starts out as reddish brown and it will become silver gray as it ages.

Pine porch swings are very popular but because they are a soft and delicate wood they will need staining regularly. Pine also resists the insects, weather, and decay. Teak porch swings is probably the most popular wood and it has an aroma that is similar to rosewood. Teak also has natural oils that repel water very well. It does not need to be treated but you can stain it or seal it if so desired. This wood also will not rot. If teak can withstand being put on ocean going vessels it will certainly hold up quite well on your front porch or in your garden.

Also available for purchase are wooden porch swings that are free standing and porch glider swings. These swings do not need to be attached to a roof ceiling, patio cover, or tree limb. Some of the free standing wooden porch swings come with a roof already attached to it, and some glider swings have wooden floors attached. If you purchase a hanging wooden porch swing installation is very easy. You and a friend could have it installed in an hour or so. Your main concern is purchasing the wooden porch swing that suites your needs best.

Barbara enjoys the at home time now that she is retired and also working around the garden and landscaping. She is now considering the use of a wooden porch swing for relaxing in the evening. She enjoys sharing her findings so come visit the website Gardeners Garden Supplies for more tips.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/wooden-porch-swings-1641940.html

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Forest Fires in Texas

Fires have been with Texas forever – long before it became a state – and fires will be part of the ecology long after we’re gone.

 Historical records suggest that Texas was largely covered in grasslands prior to western settlements. Periodic fires sparked by lightning, dry conditions, or native Americans kept the trees limited to the wetter portions of the east Texas and near regular watering holes where animals kept grasses grazed down.

 Since Texas has been settled, wild fires have been suppressed by man and seen in a negative light. This suppression has been to our advantage in many ways and against our advantage in others. Protecting homes and livestock and controlling our environment have been largely beneficial for everyone. But allowing fuel to build up to the point that it has (especially since last year’s rainfall) is now a very dangerous situation.

 As I write this today, a total of 183, 735 acres burned yesterday alone. That amount of land going up in smoke in a single day staggers the imagination. We’ve just had a cold front blow thorugh with winds in the 20 to 30 mph range and gusts to 50 mph. Following last year’s record rainfall and a significant beginning to a drought this last winter, Texas is set up for another very active fire season.

 Two years ago, Texas fire departments reported 95,971 residential fires – that was one fire about once every 5 minutes – 24 hours a day! The fires resulted in 179 civilian deaths. 7888 civilian injuries, and over $470 million dollars in property lost.

 In the Texas Fire Incident Reporting System, a total of 1,368,080 fires were reported with many more thought to be not reported! James Hull, the TFS Director, stated that during 2006, more acres in Texas burned than the sum total of acres burned previously in his entire career of more than 30 years of service.

 As a single arborist, there isn’t much one can do about large-scale fires. However, we can by starting with everyone more aware of fire conditions and what they can do to make their houses more defensible in the event of a fire. Clearing the brush and tall grasses away from houses and out buildings, raising low limbs of trees, removing deadwood and flammable understory plants – all things that will help each house be a little more defensible in the event of a wildfire. 

 To get your community involved, go this web site for more information on how to become a FireWise Community.

 

http://txforestservice.tamu.edu/main/article.aspx?id=1602

Patrick Wentworth is an arborist and biologist that has been studying and working with the environment for the last 35 years. Find out more at www.austintreespecialists.com.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/forest-fires-in-texas-1635713.html

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Bamboo Fences, Bamboo Fence and Bamboo Fencing

Bamboo Fences, Bamboo Fence and Bamboo Fencing

Bamboo fences are as unique in design as they are daring. Created from the shoots of one of the world’s fastest growing grasses, these home improvement items are increasingly gaining popularity with people who want to keep their home looking peaceful and up-to-date.

Bamboo fences come in a variety of finishes ranging from natural, natural black, and mahogany. The height and length can be chosen according to your personal preferences. You may even prefer the look of split bamboo. No matter what your individual style may be, bamboo fences provide protection and can add unique flavor to your front or backyard.

Bamboo is one of the fastest growing varieties of grass. Its hollow design makes it lightweight while its tough exterior makes it durable. Adding natural beauty to landscaped areas, bamboo fences are easy to install and increase the appeal of your yard and garden.

You can go big and bold with bamboo or keep things subtle by choosing a more subdued color or finish. No matter what type of bamboo fence you select, you can take pride in knowing that you are purchasing a quality product that will last throughout the years.

Television shows emphasize the need for your home to have curb appeal. Purchasing the right type of bamboo fencing can help you achieve that goal. Whether you are trying to sell your home or just want to update its look, putting a little bit of money into your yard is a surefire way to keep the neighbors talking. In fact, it may inspire them to put up bamboo fences of their own.

If you are looking for a cost efficient way to spruce up your home, look no further. Bamboo fences can be found for sale at this website. The all-natural appearance of these items works side-by-side with your wildflower and vegetable gardens. In fact, Japanese people incorporate bamboo into their architecture. It is very common to see it used in structures and fountains throughout the country’s largest cities.

Environmentally-friendly bamboo fencing offer busy individuals options in terms of price and the amount of effort put into installing them. Grab your spouse and a couple of neighbors and get busy beautifying your home in one afternoon. The results will be instantaneous and very gratifying. Even the oldest house can look fresh and new with the right type of bamboo fence installed in its yard.

Bamboo patio furniture can be added to the fenced in area to create a cozy place to relax after a long day at the office. It will be impossible not to find tranquility in such a serene atmosphere. Play some tranquil music and enjoy a cup of green tea. You’ve earned it. Not everyone has put as much thought as you have into the benefits of installing a bamboo fence.

Come home to the type of setting that you love. Once installed, bamboo fencing are easy to clean and maintain. Designed to withstand even the harshest weather conditions, the best anecdote to preserving the beauty of bamboo is to constantly examine it for breaks and damage.

http://www.tikishackimporter.com/premium-bamboo-edging.html

 

 

Freelance writer and website owner.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/bamboo-fences-bamboo-fence-and-bamboo-fencing-1617067.html

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Grass Umbrellas and Sea Grass Umbrellas

Grass Umbrellas and Sea Grass Umbrellas

Throwing a party in the near future and not sure what type of decor you want to purchase? Why not take the natural beauty from your backyard and combine it with a few store-bought items to create an island affair worth remembering? It won’t take your friends or neighbors long to catch onto the fact that you were born to entertain. In fact, purchasing grass umbrellas will help you set the theme in decorating your backyard paradise. Made from all-natural materials, the lightweight accessories can be put up during pre-party preparations and taken down once the last guest has left for the evening.

Virtually effortless to keep up with, grass umbrellas add instant authenticity to any event you might have outdoors. Use them alongside your tiki hut or tiki bar and incorporate them into your next luau or Fourth of July barbecue. Your friends, neighbors, and family members will feel like they have been transported to a tropical island once they see your natural grass umbrella decorations.

Set alongside bold, beautiful flowers, a umbrella captures the essence of what Mother Nature intended for you to do. Help create a quiet, pristine sanctuary in the comfort of your own backyard. Relax in the pool or practice yoga underneath the shade of your new grass umbrellas. Dance the night away while a tiki torch burns brightly in the background and retreat to a patio table or lounge table with a fruity drink when you need to rest. Grass umbrellas are the obvious choice in fuss-free lawn and patio decor.

Prevent your furnishings from going up in flames by choosing fire retardant grass umbrellas. Specifically designed to resist the spread of fire, the material is included in select products sold throughout the world. It can make the difference between life and death in some cases. Due to the highly flammable nature of some products, you should always use extreme care when cooking close to your grass umbrellas and tiki hut thatch. To learn more about fire retardant product options, visit the following site.

Grass umbrellas are stylish and cost effective. They are long lasting and charming. How else do you expect to throw an island get together without them? Purchase one or a dozen and transform your yard into the ultimate vacation destination. You won’t even have to pack a suitcase or carry a passport to get some much needed rest and relaxation. Just pull up a lawn chair and catch some rays before planning your next big celebration. Grass umbrellas are great for summer events like picnics, barbecues, graduations, birthday parties, and anniversary celebrations.

You won’t believe how beneficial a grass umbrella will be until you try one out yourself. Pick the size to fit your needs and transform your backyard into a tropical retreat. Serve appetizers and Pina Coladas out of your newly built tiki bar. Everyone you know will be lining up outside your front door to get a glimpse of your new backyard entertainment area. Your collection of grass umbrellas may be the first thing to catch their eye!

http://www.tikishackimporter.com/palapas.html

Freelance writer and website owner.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/landscaping-articles/grass-umbrellas-and-sea-grass-umbrellas-1617093.html

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