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Nestled between the Coast Range and the Cascade Mountains in Oregon, the Willamette Valley is a productive agricultural region. As the largest producer of cool-season grass seed in the world, it has earned the title as the Grass Seed Capital of the World. The area produces almost two-thirds of the total production of cool-season grasses…Read More

Spring is finally here! Along with all the benefits of spring, like the warmer weather, flowers and Salem Saturday Market, spring also brings one downside—allergies. Spring allergies, or hay fever, affect between 40 and 60 million Americans. For some, hay fever may only cause the occasional sneeze. However, for others, it can lead to severe…Read More

If you’re dealing with a pet allergy, you are not alone. Up to 30% of people in the U.S. are allergic to cats or dogs. Symptoms of pet allergies include a runny or stuffy nose, itchy or watery eyes, sneezing, shortness of breath, itchy skin, coughing and hives. Fortunately, there are several steps you can…Read More

Researchers are no longer in the dark about the effects of artificial light sources on trees and woody plants. Evidence shows that the bright lights of big cities are altering urban plants’ normal seasonal rhythms, leading to earlier and longer allergy seasons and exacerbating everything from allergies to asthma to other breathing issues. Details of…Read More

Dry, itchy eyes are an unfortunate side effect of allergy season. When you encounter irritants like pollen, dust mites, pet dander or other substances you’re sensitive to, your immune system overreacts and releases histamine. Histamine is a chemical in your body that triggers the allergy inflammation responsible for dry, red or itchy eyes. Let’s take…Read More