THE INSIDE SCOOP ON INDOOR AIR

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Many private businesses have also voluntarily modified the way that they make their furniture products. But the unfortunate fact is that far more continue to use formaldehyde-based glues indiscriminately. Why? Says Ikramuddin, "They don't think it's a problem!"

For more information about formaldehyde and other indoor air pollutants, as well as what you can do to limit your exposure, contact Mothers & Others at 40 West 20th St., New York, NY 10011, 888-ECO-INFO, or visit the Web at www.mothers.org . You can also call the EPA's indoor air quality information hot line, 800-438-4318, or visit the EPA/IAQ Web site at www.epa.gov/iaq .

Backyard Conservation

A national initiative is under way to encourage America's homeowners — whether rural, suburban, or urban — to make one million backyards a "friendlier place for nature."

A joint effort of the Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC), the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD), and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the Backyard Conservation project is designed to educate private homeowners — who control some 92 million acres of developed land in the U.S. — about simple, inexpensive conservation measures they can put to work in their own backyards. "It's amazing what a few of the right plants or trees will do for nesting birds and other wildlife," says WHC President William W. Howard.

At the center of the Backyard Conservation project is a 28-page booklet, mailed free upon request, that gives basic how-to advice on ten specific topics: tree planting, wildlife habitat, backyard ponds, backyard wetlands, composting, mulching, nutrient management, terracing, water conservation, and pest management. The booklet also describes how the nation's farmers and ranchers have used these practices for decades to help ensure clean air and water, fertile, productive land, and no- or low-chemical pest control.

To receive a copy of the Backyard Conservation booklet, dial 888-LAND-CARE. Not only is the booklet brimming with helpful hints, it also contains some of the most stunning, vibrant photographs of backyard wildlife you'll ever lay eyes on. The authors also provide a list of contacts for more in-depth information on each of the topics covered.

For more information on the Backyard Conservation project, visit the Web at http://nrcs.usda.gov . — ML.

A Hidden Deal in Medical Insurance

The one good thing to come of the Clintons' failed attempt to nationalize health insurance is the federal Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act. Among other things, the act allows self-employed individuals and those working in small companies to set up a special tax-free medical savings account (MSA) to pay the first $2,000 or so of medical expenses and have any added costs covered by low-cost major medical insurance.

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