Train your dog to deal with distractions

"When we think of environmental action, we draw upon images from the disaster of Love Canal or from A Civil Action - stories of lone activists fighting the government or some corporation against all odds. In their provocative essay, Sabel, Fung, and Karkkainen demonstrate that an effective alternative is emerging. Before environmental disasters occur, citizen groups are collaborating with experts, business leaders, and local and federal governments to figure out what is best for their own neighborhoods. These examples point to more than successful environmental action: they represent a model of grassroots democracy that can be applied to the needs of any community"--Back cover.

Jason Offutt's new book, What Lurks Beyond, is a study of strange and otherworldly phenomena of a truly varied, disturbing, and ominous nature that have occurred within 100 miles of Jason's home. Encompassing engrossing tales of time travel; encounters with aliens from far-off realms; shadowy entities that lurk in the darkened corners of our world; near-death experiences; and much more, this is a book that takes a fresh, new approach to its subject matter. And it's one that will definitely have you looking over your shoulder as you read it!---Nick Redfern, author of Science Fiction Secrets and There's Something in the Woods Unearthing fresh information about classic cases and all-new tales of paranormal happenings, Jason Offutt has done a masterful job of peeling back the otherworldly veneer from the esoteric and bringing it much closer to home. He dispels the notion that high strangeness is "somewhere out there" and shows that it exists all around us, in small towns, big cities, and, more often than not, right around the corner. A fun and entertaining read that serves as a veritable grab bag of paranormal genres, What Lurks Beyond is a worthwhile addition to any esoteric enthusiast's library.---Tim Binnall, host of Binnall of America Ghosts, aliens, a time traveler, and a mind-reading dog could be fiction, but Jason Offutt investigates true tales of these and other paranormal events that happened within 100 miles of his home. Offutt introduces ordinary folks who have encountered unexplained phenomena in everyday places and presents engaging account of their experiences. Getting a glimpse of this hidden world around us may prompt us to look---really look---in our own backyard.

When you're ready for the next step, Backyard Chickens Beyond the Basics shows you the realities of raising productive flocks that are happy and healthy. A must-have for every backyard chicken keeper, Backyard Chickens Beyond the Basics goes beyond introductory lessons and explores the realities of raising a flock for eggs -- and entertainment, of course! From odd eggs and molting, to feeding and preparing for the seasons, this book covers the subjects beginner books don't adequately address and re-examines common knowledge that may not actually hold true. It's a resource to turn to time and again. Author Pam Freeman draws on her years of experience fielding reader questions to identify and clearly explain many common - and some not-so-common - issues in chicken keeping, including: How do you add new chickens to your flock? What is the pecking order and how can you change or control it? Is it better to raise chicks by hand or with a broody hen? What do you do when you collect eggs? In Backyard Chickens Beyond the Basics, readers will find not just answers, but a book full of "coop truth" that helps them continue on their journey. Because as every chicken owner knows: Chickens are individuals and real-life chicken keeping often takes you far from the beaten path.

In this eloquent plea for compassion and respect for all species, journalist and gardener Nancy Lawson describes why and how to welcome wildlife to our backyards. Through engaging anecdotes and inspired advice, profiles of home gardeners throughout the country, and interviews with scientists and horticulturalists, Lawson applies the broader lessons of ecology to our own outdoor spaces. Detailed chapters address planting for wildlife by choosing native species; providing habitats that shelter baby animals, as well as birds, bees, and butterflies; creating safe zones in the garden; cohabiting with creatures often regarded as pests; letting nature be your garden designer; and encouraging natural processes and evolution in the garden. The Humane Gardener fills a unique niche in describing simple principles for both attracting wildlife and peacefully resolving conflicts with all the creatures that share our world.

From the bestselling author of The Small House Book, comes a collection of designs for tiny homes with “instant curb appeal.” (The New York Times) From internationally recognized small living expert Jay Shafer, who has been featured on CNN, Oprah, Fine Homebuilding, and This Old House, a revised edition of his bestselling book, Tumbleweed DIY Book of Backyard Sheds and Tiny Houses. Ranging in size from 100 to 120 square feet, these tiny backyard buildings can be used as guest cottages, art or writing studios, home offices, craft workshops, vacation retreats, or full-time residences. This book is filled with photos, elevation drawings, and door/window schedules for constructing six of the handsome little buildings, plus an extensive how-to set of instructions that can be applied to any backyard building project. This revised edition contains many new photos of buildings designed by Jay Shafer. Praise for Jay Shafer and Tumbleweed Tiny Houses: "... guru of the small house movement." —John Blackstone, CBS "Move-in ready gems." —Better Homes and Gardens “Astounding." —Oprah Winfrey "A visionary designer ..." —Domino Magazine "100 square feet of bliss." —Thelma Guiterrez, CNN

Self-sufficiency doesn't have to mean getting off the grid entirely. That level of independence isn't practical for most people. A backyard farm can provide an abundance of inexpensive food as well as additional income which can bring you real independence. Whether you're a first-timer who wants to start growing vegetables or an experienced gardener looking to expand a small plot into a minifarm, The Everything Backyard Farming Book has all you need, from growing fruits and vegetables to raising animals to preserving and storing food. With this common-sense guide, you will be able to take control of the food you eat - in an urban or suburban setting.

Backyard Idea Book showcases hundreds of creative, practical ideas for planning and decorating inviting yet functional backyard spaces. From porches, patios, and decks to pools and retreats to kids' spaces and storage, this book is filled with fresh ideas to help you create a beautiful backyard that reflects and enhances your lifestyle. "Fabulous. It works like a reference manual for homeowners and professionals alike." -- Lynette Jennings, creator and host of Lynette Jennings Design About the author Lee Anne White is a landscape designer, garden photographer, and writer. She is the former chief editor of Fine Gardening magazine, the editor of numerous books on garden design (including Pool Idea Book and Taunton's Front Yard Idea Book), and the recipient of three Quill & Trowel Awards from the Garden Writers Association of America.

"Along with artist and critic Genevieve Allison, Ross set out in February 2017 on a five-month journey to travel the length of the border, taking photos and collecting stories along the way"--Daily Beast article by Evan Siegel from 3/30/19.

Ideas for turning a backyard into an outdoor living area.