Play structure has something for everyone

The Perfect

warm-weather project for do-it-yourselfers with kids or grandkids, this play structure has something for everyone. While kids see the obvious fort, treehouse, jungle gym, castle and pirate ship all rolled into one, grown-ups will appreciate the project’s subtler aspects—namely, it’s a safe, sturdy and creative place for kids to play, and it even looks nice.

The project’s built-in ladder leads to a six-foot-square platform (about five feet off the ground) covered by a colorful canvas top. There’s a smooth hardboard slide with a sandbox at the bottom, and another sandbox underneath the platform, in the shade.

The structure is built mostly from standard 4-by-4’s, 1-by-8’s and 1-by-6’s, and requires only basic tools. Although it’s not a small project, simple and sturdy postand-platform construction keeps it within the scope of most woodworkers. And with similar play structures going for up to $2,000 in stores, do-it-yourselfers willing to put in the work will enjoy big savings. and meadows have on the environment. Lawns make the largest irrigated “crop” in the country, and the adverse impact of their ecological footprint is staggering. Meadows offer the opposite effect, providing myriad ecological benefits including ongoing sequestering of carbon and significantly increased biological diversity. Meadows are more affordable than lawns, and with the right know-how they’re long-last- ing, low-maintenance and very beautiful. Owen will discuss the benefits of native meadows, explain how to create thriving meadowscapes, and share strategies drawn from research and over 20 years of experience. Cost $15 members, $20 nonmembers;

The completed play structure stands a little more than 10 feet tall (at the peak of the gable).

The Play Structure plan, No. 839, is $9.95 and includes complete step-bystep directions with photos, traceable patterns, construction diagrams and a shopping list and cutting schedule. Please include $3.95 per order for postage and handling and allow about two weeks for delivery.

To order by mail, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o (insert name of publication here), 741B Olive Ave., Vista CA 92083. To order by credit card, visit U-Bild on the web at u-bild.com.

• Friday, Feb. 18, 5 to 6 p.m., “26th annual Winter Lecture: Discovering Tokachi.” Midori Shintani, head gardener of Tokachi