Community Notes 08-17-2011

1. TCEQ Computer Recycling. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality now provides people with free options to recycle their computers. These options are listed on their website at TexasRecyclesComputers.org. State law requires computer manufacturers to offer their consumers a free and convenient recycling program for personal and home-business computers. To read more about the program, visit http://www.tceq.texas.gov/news.
   
2. Sustainable Communities Grant. The US Department of Housing and Urban Development announced its Sustainable Communities Grant Program, which supports local efforts to build more livable and sustainable communities. The program involves working to expand housing choices, improving connections between employment centers and homes, and reducing barriers to achieving affordable, economically vital, and sustainable communities. For more information, visit http://lgean.org/news.
3. Watering Trees. The drought is taking a toll on the trees. The most important thing you can do for the trees in your yard is to water them. Texas Forest Service tree experts have compiled a list of watering tips that include:
• Check for and follow local water restrictions.
• Mature trees should be watered every week or two of a major drought.
• Water deeply – 6 to 8 inches into the soil under the foliage of the tree.
• Use a hose or sprinkler for the easiest way to give your tree a deep soak.
• Newly planed tree should be watered three times a week.
• Reduce watering needs by removing plants that surround your trees.
• For a full list, visit http://www.guidrynews.com/.
4. Texas Outdoor Recreation Plan. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department is conducting a survey to determine the extent of the issues facing recreation providers and the kinds of outdoor recreation activities that are needed. This survey will help develop the Texas Outdoor Recreation Plan (TORP) 2012-2017, which development of the Texas Outdoor Recreation Plan (TORP) 2012-2017. The TORP ensures that Texas continues to receive federal Land and Water Conservation Fund grants for acquisition and development of parks. To take the survey, visit http://TakeSurvey.
   
5. Air Quality Forecast. http://www.tceq.state.tx.us/compliance/monitoring/air/monops/forecast_today.html
• August 18: Orange–Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups–Ozone. Winds may be light enough and incoming background levels high enough for ozone levels to reach “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” on the north side of the Houston area.
• August 19: Orange–Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups–Ozone. Winds may be light enough and incoming background levels high enough for ozone levels to reach “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” on the north and northeast side of the Houston area.
• August 20: Yellow–Moderate–Ozone. Winds may be light enough for ozone to reach “Moderate” levels on the north and northwest side of the Houston area.