To the editor: After a long and dreary winter, it's time for outdoor spring projects to start. NW Natural reminds contractors, homeowners and landscapers to call 811 when a project involves digging 12 inches or lower.

To the editor: Due to the oil train disaster in Mosier, there has been much uproar among the public, but no one has provided any solutions. Their view is to shut down the rail oil tank car traffic in the Columbia Gorge corridor, without seeking alternatives. I am offering a solution that can resolve safety concerns.