It's no secret that Seattle has many gorgeous

parks. But if you haven't visited one of the city's Environmental Learning Centers, you're missing a

big part of what they have to offer.

The four centers--located at Carkeek Park, Seward Park, Discovery Park and Camp Long--provide environmental education for all ages. Classes range from birdwatching treks to nighttime hikes to movie screenings.

But we especially love the Living Green classes at Carkeek Park. "People can come here and actually see residential-scale demonstration projects for what they can do in and around their own homes," says Beth Miller, education specialist for Seattle parks and public utilities.

• Ever heard of a waterwall? Learn more at "Natural Water Catchment for the Home" on Oct. 27.
• Want to breathe easy this winter? Learn simple, low cost ways to curb indoor pollution at "What's Good for You is Good for the Watershed" on Nov. 8.
• Do you really need that disinfectant? Demystify your cleaning products at "Greener (and Healthier) Household Alternatives" on Nov. 13.

"We are all having impacts on Puget Sound that we can change," Miller says. "These classes give you a chance to chat with local experts so that you can find out how to make specific changes to your life."

Want to check out an ELC class for yourself? Many are free or low cost. Download the Fall 2007 brochure here, and register online with SPARC.