My Oregon Beaches

One type of pollution is the contamination of bodies of waters including seas, oceans, lakes and even the water deposited under the ground. This unnatural and potentially harmful occurrence is commonly known water pollution. Although water is naturally subject to an acceptable amount of contamination as part of the normal processes of nature, the ecological status of water is the main gauge of the effects of water pollution. Overall, when a stream, a sea or a lake becomes unlivable for marine organisms and the use of it by human is harmful and undesirable; then it is considered to be contaminated beyond tolerance.

Below is a list of the undesirable effects of water pollution:

1.    It is harmful to the normal marine flora and fauna living in its beds. Bodies of waters are one of the richest ecosystems of the earth. It is home to a diversity of plants and animals living in harmony of co-existence. It also a very rich source of food being home to schools of fishes, a wide array of shell food, edible seaweeds, and even to the delectable squids and its family. Without it, not only are people deprived from foods rich in iodine and other nutrients but also subject to a shortage beyond belief as food choices is limited.

2.    It is harmful to the human body when ingested. The human body is seventy percent liquid in composition owing to water being part of the daily needs of man. A man will never last for days without water. If the water sources like dams start to be contaminated, the people are prone to develop a variety of diseases caused by microorganisms and contaminants.

3.    It affects various jobs and occupations. Farmers will not be able to grow plants with dirty water as irrigation. Fish folks will not be able to catch fishes and other seafood without it. Power plants that house and employ a number of the populace will not be able to continuously run its engines without water thereby causing a halt on production and the overall functionality of the plants. In short, no one will live or work without it.

A number of reasons causing these drastically harmful effects of water pollution have been pinpointed. The culprits are bacteria and microorganism from sewage, organic compounds and chemical wastes from power plants, rampant throwing of garbage, insecticides, herbicides and fertilizer residues being washed out by running water, and heavy metals from industrials plants and even silt. All of these alter the normal chemical composition of water causing these unforeseen effects harmful to any living organism. With collective effort from everyone, it can still be prevented. It is not yet too late to reverse and even halt the occurrence of these harmful effects. Everybody should act now and save all the bodies of water.

One minute I’m cruising around this really cool new website about the Oregon coast (www.beachconnection.net), and the next I’m cruising around Highway 101, taking in all the clean air, the beautiful sights, gobbling some wowing food and visiting a lot of funky secret spots I found online. It’s a wondrous trip that’s hard to forget.

It begins with this site Oregon Coast Beach Connection: rather new, but already huge and all-encompassing in its coverage of the upper half of the coast. I started by goofing around the virtual tours (not all of them are completed), which have on average 60 different stops along various areas of the coast. I found some interesting hidden beaches near Cannon Beach, down in Newport and near Manzanita.

The site has this awe-inspiring, sprawling news section, where I discovered some great restaurants and hotels. I used their weather page to check the forecast just before I left on this really sunny weekend in February - and just like one of their stories about “winter weather secrets” said it would be - it was exceptionally warm in February. See their news section at www.beachconnection/news.

So I head out for the coast, first gobbling up insane seafood on the scenic, pristine Tillamook Bay at Pacific Oyster. They have this cioppino to die for. It’s thick, hearty and so stocked full of a variety of fish it puts a hatchery to shame. The oysters are like tender little chunks of beef: extremely rich and flavorful, quite powerful for their miniscule size. The smoked salmon burger was wonderful as well, and the view of the bay was magnificent. 5150 Oyster Drive. (503) 377-2323.

That night, I stayed at the Old Wheeler Hotel: a wildly romantic hotel in the tiny town of Wheeler that was carved out of an old building once ready to fall apart. This was totally amazing to discover, as the place has an extremely manicured, old world charm, with hard wood floors, chandeliers, clawfoot bathtubs and views of the untouched and pure Nehalem Bay. It’s been nicknamed the “Westin-Benson of the Oregon Coast.” I’m addicted and will be back. Hwy 101 and Gregory. www.oldwheelerhotel.com. 877-4theview.

Practically next door, it’s pure pizza heaven at a fairly new eatery called Guido’s Ristorante. The staff here was constantly hilarious - a little like watching the cast of “Seinfeld” interacting. But it’s the grub that was the real star of the show, with a thick, even juicy crust beneath a forest-like covering of innovative ingredients. The main chef there (he called himself Guido, but I think that was part of the gags of the evening) said he’d help me decide on my pizza selection and just make something up for me.

I shyly asked about meatballs on my pie, and he not only said “yes” but eventually brought me a masterpiece with various kinds of cheeses, a delicious marinara sauce drizzled on the meatballs and some kind of garden of vegetables which I can’t even remember. This place also had an outstanding view of the bay. 675 Hwy 101, Wheeler. (503) 368-7778.

The next day, I wander up just north of Manzanita to check out one of the incredible hidden spots I’d found at www.beachconnection.net. A set of grandiose cliffs and a small mountain hovers over the sleepy little beach resort, and on its north face lie some wild, weird slopes. The website said it resembled Ireland in some spots, and scenes from “Planet of the Apes” in others. Somebody nailed it on the head. You walk down these steep, grassy areas to come across a strange seascape of jagged, freaky rock structures and boiling surf. It was absolutely remarkable.

I again follow the website to a place called Hug Point, near Cannon Beach. I’d been here before, actually, but never seen the array of veiled pleasures and interesting details tucked away in one rocky area or another. There’s a waterfall, a few sea caves (one has some intricate structure inside that’s fun to crawl), and this rather mysterious road going around the point. According to Beach Connection’s site, the state had dynamited this road out of the rock in the early part of the century so old horse ‘n’ buggies and Model T’s could make their way around during high tides.

The area is a geologist’s wonderland too - but that’s another story.

Next up, I wander Cannon Beach and wind up in this tiny little wonder called Fultano’s Pizza. I ordered the penne pasta with meat sauce - and meatballs, of course. These meatballs are exceptional, with a marvelously multi-layered taste to them, like the subtleties you find in fine wine. The meat sauce is partially responsible for this, also with a few layers of goodness all its own. This place is a truly gourmet discovery, yet not only is it totally kid friendly but thoroughly has a romance element as well.

I came back here for dinner too, having this seriously delectable pizza with a sauce made from mashed grapes. This was fabulous, and I must say I’ve never had anything like it. 200 N. Hemlock and Second Street. (503) 436-9717.

That night, I bed down at a real charmer of a motel called the San Dune Inn in Manzanita, where I’m joined by my lady friend and her dog. This place is super dog friendly.

They have a large selection of movies, as well as other unique things I’ve never seen at a motel, like bikes for use of guests, volleyball gear, beach balls and other beachy equipment. Wow. We had a blast biking down to the beach (only a few blocks) and laughing as we got stuck in the sand. That night, after drinks at Guido’s beautifully hip little retro bar (just a few miles away), we dragged the bikes out again - although I’m not sure if this what the owners had in mind for these. 428 Dorcas Lane. www.sandune-inn-manzanita.com. 888-368-5163.

Verdant forest, picturesque coastal scenes, rocky cliffs, sandbank, sound of waves on the beach etc all these are attraction of Oregon coast. There are many activities which person can do that is fishing, windsurfing, hiking and further long list. Other attractions of Oregon coast are art galleries, theaters, festivals, parks and off course its aquariums. Mere a thought of being on the Oregon coast with your partner or family creates an excitement and this excitement doubles or even triples when you accommodate in Oregon coast vacation rental.

While accommodating at Oregon coast vacation rental, you will be welcomed as if you are accommodating in your home town. You have other options also where you can accommodate while holidaying at Oregon coast. The reason as to why Oregon coast vacation rental is recommended is just because it offers a comfort of home. It is also seen vacating at Oregon coast vacation rental is cheaper than any other means. So, in this way you can save an amount of money which you can use on some other activity on Oregon coast.

As said it gives an environment of home so, you can also cook while holidaying either the local yummy sea food to international cuisine. After your cooking you can relax in the living room while watching television or even can enjoy on the shore various activities. Sometimes big vacation rental also have swimming pools, gyms and every other service which is needed by you in your daily routine.

Oregon coast has abundant of vacation rental with different sizes and location. It totally depend on your choice which location and size you prefer to live in. there are varieties of Oregon coast vacation rentals available such as condos, apartments, bungalows, villas, small cottages etc. The rates or rent of the Oregon coast vacation rental depends on the location, size and type of vacation rental you choose. Lastly, make sure that your choice of vacation rental must be made by considering your pocket.

There are number of sources available from where you can book Oregon vacation rental that is from traveling agency or directly from the owner. It is seen that booking directly from owner involves comparatively low cost.

Whether you go to an agent or traveling agency or directly to an owner then you are generally asked to fill an application which ask certain personal and location preference detail. Then an agency will provide you with all the information and location of the Oregon coast vocational rental. And, the last step will be yours that is packing your bag and leave your home town for holidaying at Oregon coast vacation rental.

About The Author

Sylvestor Johnson is offering loan and rental advice for quite some time. He is working as financial consultant for ThinkRentals. To find Oregon Coast Vacation Rental, Cabin rentals, Condo rentals, Rental homes, Vacation rentals, Beach house vacation rentals at cheap rates that best suits your needs visit http://www.thinkrentals.com.

Fresh air and friendly people make Salem, Oregon a refreshing and peaceful place to visit. Located at the center of the fertile Willamette Valley in Oregon, the city is Oregon’s second largest, boasting a population of a mere 140,000 people. Salem is situated between Portland and Eugene at the junction where Interstate Highway 5 and Oregon Highway 22 converge.

History of Salem, Oregon

Long before the first Westerners showed up on the scene, Native Americans lived in the rich and fertile valley now known as Willamette Valley. The first Western settlers of Salem dubbed it a new Eden. They came on the Oregon Trail beginning in 1843, and there were thousands of them.

During the gold rush, Salem and the rest of the Willamette Valley shipped their wheat, timber, and other goods by steamboat through Portland to California, jumpstarting their long history of being a top agricultural producer in the country. In fact, the Willamette Valley is considered one of the most fertile locales of the country. It’s no surprise that as such, the area is among the most agriculturally active regions on earth. Indeed, Salem, Oregon is a major agricultural processing city.

Salem, Oregon City Facts

Salem is also one of Oregon’s oldest cities, having been incorporated in 1857. In 1864, less than a decade later, the state’s capitol city was shifted from Oregon City to Salem. Twice, in 1961 and 1982, Salem, Oregon has held the honor of being selected as the All-American City by the National Civic League. Unswervingly dedicated to urban forestry, Salem has also garnered the acclaim of being named Tree City USA by the National Arbor Day Foundation, a distinction the city has claimed for an amazing thirty consecutive years. The world’s smallest city park, Waldo Park, which consists of a lone tree, is located in Salem, Oregon.

Salem, Oregon is a Capitol City Full of Attractions

Many of Salem, Oregon’s interesting things to see are related to the fact that it’s the capitol city of Oregon. Its impressive capitol building is the city’s third, constructed subsequent to the fires that destroyed the first two. The building is topped with a dome on which perches a gold-plated pioneer statue. Directly in front of the capitol building is a fountain that’s a popular summer destination for kids trying to cool down.

Parks, replete with their own gardens and generous fountains, surround the capitol building. The Saturday Market, held between May and October, goes on every week just north of the capitol. Selling local products such as fresh produce and meat, bakery items, and crafts, the Market is a living tribute to the rich offerings of the Willamette Valley. In addition, Salem, Oregon offers all kinds of festivals, fairs, performing arts, and wine and other agricultural activities that keep visitors entertained for days. Many landmarks, historical homes, museums, covered bridges, and festivals or other cultural events also keep Salem’s history and lore alive.

Salem’s lodging facilities are wide-ranging and plentiful, catering to the visitors that are sure to be attracted by the region’s many charms. In addition to motels, hotels, and quaint bed and breakfasts, Salem, Oregon also offers a nice selection of RV parks and campgrounds where visitors can immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty.

Fishing in Oregon is Great for the Whole Family

Oregon has a reputation for having some of the best fishing in the country. Fishing in Oregon is great for groups of adults, but if you have a young family, you can still take advantage of Oregon’s beautiful scenery and enjoy fishing together. Fishing in Oregon is a great way to extricate yourselves from the business and overstimulation typical of everyday life and immerse yourself in the quiet of nature with loved ones. An inexpensive pastime, fishing is a wonderful family activity that you and your family will remember as treasured moments together. It’s a great daytrip option and can also become a family tradition. Fishing is a low-key sport, suitable for men, women, and children of all ages. When fishing in Oregon, you can soak in the beautiful lake surroundings, not only while fishing, but also while you enjoy a picnic together in the great outdoors. Or why not make a camping trip out of it and roast up some of the day’s catch?

Various Kinds of Fishing in Oregon

Fishing in Oregon offers an array of places to explore, each with its own unique characteristics. Information and ideas can be obtained through the Oregon Department of Fish and Game, which is the perfect resource for fishing enthusiasts.

Fishing in Oregon is a possibility basically wherever there is a body of water. Rivers, estuaries, streams, and lakes, all of which are plentiful in Oregon, house an impressive range of fish species including salmon, many types of trout, sturgeon, bass, shad, and crappie. The Sandy and Columbia Rivers are among the most popular places to fish for salmon and steelhead. The Rogue River, Coquille River, and Coos River offer some of the finest salmon fishing in Oregon. The McKenzie River and Tillamook Bay are also Oregon fishing hotspots. Sturgeon, another sought-after variety of fish, also available in Oregon rivers as well as Oregon bays and the Pacific Ocean. Oregon fly fishing, specifically trout fly fishing, and salt water fishing are other possibilities when it comes to fishing in Oregon.

Ways to Go Fishing in Oregon

Various boats are another way that fishing in Oregon varies. For instance, you can fish from a powerboat or you can go on a trip involving drift fishing or back trolling. In addition to researching and navigating your own fishing trips in Oregon, you can also consider hiring a guide. Often these guides enable hassle-free experiences of fishing in Oregon, especially for those who may be a little less experienced. For instance, they often include gear such as fishing flies, tackle, and bait as well as raingear.

Things to Keep in Mind When Fishing in Oregon

Make sure to make arrangements for fishing licenses when you are planning to go fishing in Oregon. Resident and non-resident day licenses are necessary for those age fifteen and older. Fishing in Oregon, of any variety, requires a license, so make sure not to overlook this important step before you enjoy the sport, experience of nature, and world-class fish that go along with fishing in Oregon.

About the Author:

Visit http://www.fishingrevieworegon.com/ to find more information about family fishing in Portland, Oregon.

If you want to see the most fascinating scenery, visit Oregon. This place is full of unique and exciting places to visit, and great outdoor opportunities. It has a beautiful seacoast, impressive mountain vistas, lush greenery, inland waterways and even deserts and prairies.

The whole Pacific Coastline is public land and offers hiking, scuba diving, surfing, fishing, cycling activities, historic lighthouses, breathtaking viewpoints and stunning state parks.

It stretches 362 miles from Astoria to the Columbia River to Brookings near the California border, is also a breathtaking feature of the state. The coast also includes sites such as the Oregon Coast Aquarium, National Scenic Area and lighthouses. Seaside is the closest major coastal city in Oregon to Portland. With three miles of sandy beach and two miles of manicured, ocean front boardwalk, it is also a popular destination for tourists and travelers. Seaside is a national landmark with rich historical past. The end of the Lewis and Clark trail is commemorated with a statue. Cannon coastline is also a very scenic place of the area.

The Cascade Range is the interior range of the Pacific Northwestern United States. It stretches over 700 miles across Northern California, Oregon, Washington, and Southern British Columbia, running parallel to the Pacific, about 100-150 miles inland. The Oregon Cascades region is legendary for its recreational opportunities. The region is home to seven different national forests and is best known for Oregon’s highest mountain, Mount Hood, and the nearby recreation area, the Columbia River Gorge.

The historic Columbia River Highway is a good way to view the nice vistas and waterfalls. It has several wilderness areas and national forests. Crater Lake National Park has the deepest lake in the United States and the seventh-deepest in the world. Crater Lake is a stunning and special natural treasure, evolved more than 7,700 years ago. It has unbelievably blue water, according to Scientists, the water is completely clear to a depth of 123 feet and part of its blueness is a reflection of the sky. Rim Drive encircles Crater Lake and there are some spectacular view points on the 33 mile long road. The Oregon Cascades region is also known for the highest mountain in Oregon: Mount Hood. The area is very rainy, that’s why Oregon has magnificent natural beauty and fresh, rain-scented air. The summers are quite warm, but never muggy. In wintertime there are many skiing and snowboarding activities available.

Portland, the “City of Roses”, known for its world famous parks and vivid nightlife. The city adopted the rose as a symbol of its renewal and growth. Every year they celebrate the Portland Rose Festival. The city is Oregon’s cultural center with large collections of museums, galleries and art centers. This special city and Salem, the capital city of Oregon - is located half way between Portland and Eugene – are both memorable places of the state.

About the Author:

Fruzsina Csery wrote this article to Real Estate Listings in Oregon

When the call of the outdoors becomes overwhelming and you simply cannot fight the urge to explore a vast wonderland of recreation, make your way to Oregon for a vacation filled with fresh air and endless opportunities for excitement. Whether you prefer the coastal regions and the water activities that abound or the inland region and the stunning mountains that tower above, a trip to Oregon can accommodate all of your outdoor needs with its stunning and plentiful natural beauty.

The coastal region of Oregon is one of the most beautiful areas for a vacation due to the breathtaking blue waters and amazing rocky hills that frame the terrain. Imagine driving through a lush, dense forest and suddenly emerging on a dramatic cliff that points down to the waves below, and you have an idea of what a coastal vacation is all about. One of the best places to visit along the coast is Lincoln City, which claims seven miles of sandy beaches and is the perfect place for the active outdoor traveler.

Lincoln City is known for its constant winds along the shore that make it the ideal place for a run across the sand with a kite or a windsurfing adventure over the waves. While these are great ways to enjoy the surreal environment, other popular activities for visitors include boating, water skiing, jet skiing, fishing, and knee boarding in the refreshing waters of the Pacific Ocean. Nearby Devil’s Lake State Recreation Area is better suited for more mellow activities, including kayaking, canoeing, or fishing for freshwater fish such as perch, bluegill, and large mouth bass.

While Central Oregon lacks the drama of the coastline, it is the perfect place to escape from stress and commune with nature. One of the best cities to seek out is Sunriver, which lies along the Cascade Mountains and the Deschutes River and allows for any kind of relaxing outdoor activity possible. The fresh mountain air is an invigorating alarm clock for any homebody and will push visitors outward on a hiking or exploration adventure. The river runs for five miles along the city, so visitors have ample opportunity to bike along its shores or cast in a fly fishing line while adoring the unfettered beauty of Oregon.

When you simply cannot get enough of the outdoors and want to spend every minute of your vacation engulfed by some of the most breathtaking, underrated surroundings in the country, make your way to the Mount Hood region of Oregon. The snow-covered peak of Mount Hood stands above everything, providing a stunning picture of the best the great outdoors has to offer. Throw in the second highest year-round waterfall in the United States, Multnomah Falls, and you have a veritable wonderland of outdoor amazement.

If you are interested in the local history of this gorgeous area, hope aboard the Mount Hood Railroad for a four hour journey through the amazing scenery combined with information about key points of interest. Another great activity is booking a whitewater rafting adventure with one of the numerous companies that takes tourists down the Deschutes and other nearby rivers for a memorable excursion. Whether you are looking for a half-day of excitement, a five day expedition, or something in between, there is bound to be a trip that can meet your needs.

No matter which part of Oregon stands out to you as being the most scenic and adventurous, there are accommodations in that area that can make your trip more exciting than you ever imagined. Oregon vacation rentals are situated throughout the state and make it easy to enjoy the great outdoors with their breathtaking views from balconies, patios, and just about every window. Begin your search for the perfect home away from home today and get back to nature in every way possible with a vacation rental that is surrounded by the wondrous beauty of Oregon.

About the Author:

http://www.GreatRentals.com has the most comprehensive selection of vacation rental homes on the Internet. For an alternative lodging option, consider Oregon vacation rentals for your next trip to the Pacific Northwest.

What is more romantic than cuddling around a fire on a rainy day with lush green landscape out the window? Romantic destinations in Oregon are all about this image, so read on for top destinations.

A beautiful state located on the upper West Coast, Oregon is a lovely place to visit. Home to some of the most interesting mountain terrain in the United States, as well as gorgeous coastal areas that are perfect for water lovers, this state is a good destination for nature lovers. The terrain here is more widely varied than anywhere else in the US, and includes volcanoes as well as forests and other areas of interest. Romantic destinations in Oregon can be great for couples that enjoy the great outdoors.

One area of the state that holds many romantic retreats is the southern end of Oregon. Here, in towns such as Ashland and Medford, many bed and breakfast establishments are waiting to cater to your romance needs. This area of the state is home to such attractions as Grants Pass and Klamath Falls State Park, which are locations that allow couples who enjoy activities such as hiking and exploring forest areas a place to enjoy their hobbies. Ashland, Oregon has several inns and b and b’s itself, making it easy to find the perfect spot for your vacation.

The Arden Forest Inn is a bed and breakfast that’s located on an acre of beautifully landscaped gardens – and the Inn considers itself a perfect spot for theater lovers, due to the nearby “Tony” award winning Shakespeare Festival. There are five guest rooms at the Arden Forest Inn, each of them decorated and appointed in a manner that is sure to please any visitor. All rooms include private baths and a large array of personal care and bathing products. Complimentary sherry and biscotti are included in your room upon arrival, and a delicious gourmet two course breakfast is also part of your stay. To make your trip truly romantic, add the Inn’s “As You Love It” package, which includes wine, chocolates and flowers in your room.

Other romantic destinations in Oregon can also be had in the town of Ashland. The McCall House Bed and Breakfast is housed in a building dating back to 1883, and it is located just one block away from the theaters of the Shakespeare Festival. This b and b includes some of the original McCall family furnishings, as well as other Italianate antiques to round out the inn’s style. There are nine guest rooms available at the inn, ranging from suites to more modest twin bed accommodations. Deliciously prepared breakfasts are served each morning, along with afternoon snacks and other delights to make your stay comfortable. For an even more special time with your loved one, book the Romantic Couples package which includes chilled champagne, chocolates, and roses in your room.

Oregon is one of the West Coast’s least explored treasures – but if you are looking for a different place for your next romantic trip, it is definitely a state worth looking at.