Local briefs for March 13

The Gresham Outlook, Mar 12, 2010, Updated Mar 12, 2010

Check alarms when changing clocks

Residents are urged to check their smoke alarms when changing their clock for daylight-saving time Sunday, March 14. Many people have smoke alarms with 10-year batteries, so changing the batteries may not be necessary.

Checking the alarm includes testing the battery, vacuuming the alarm to get rid of dust and cobwebs, and inspecting the alarm to determine if it is 10 years old or older. If so, the entire alarm should be replaced.

Rain garden grants available to homeowners

Gresham homeowners who are planning to landscape this spring could be eligible for a grant of up to $100 for installing a rain garden.

The city of Gresham and the East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District are offering 10 grants to encourage the building of rain gardens, which are designed to absorb rainwater runoff from roofs, driveways, walkways and compacted lawns. Rain gardens can support a variety of shrubs, flowers and grasses, and they prevent runoff from flowing untreated into streams and creating pollution.

Rain garden grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis for applicants who meet the criteria. The application and rain garden information is available at greshamoregon.gov/watershed or by calling Jamie Stamberger at 503-618-2793. The city also offers free rain garden assistance and home visits.

Residents can learn how to build a rain garden at a free workshop that will be from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, March 27, at Gresham City Hall, 1333 N.W. Eastman Parkway. Register in advance at emswcd.org or call 503-935-5383.