Hemlock trees are endangered and critical for supporting wildlife ecosystems in the United States and Canada. However, there has been a decline in their numbers due to invasive species, logging, climate change, and habitat destruction. The hemlock woolly adelgid (HWA) is also a significant threat as it weakens and kills hemlock trees. To address these threats, conservation efforts have been…
Cypress Park, located along the Los Angeles River, has reopened to the public after a 10-month renovation project. The park now has expanded walking paths and bike lanes, new playgrounds and exercise equipment, enhanced landscaping and green space, new benches, picnic tables, and shade structures, and more. The project was a collaborative effort between the City of Los Angeles and…
Birch has been identified as an ingredient that could revolutionise the skin care sector due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and collagen-stimulating properties, according to a report by Business World. The ingredient is high in antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin E and betulinic acid, which can neutralise the free radicals that cause damage to skin cells leading to premature ageing. Birch…
Technology is playing an important role in the maple syrup industry, allowing producers to streamline their operations and improve yield. Reverse osmosis machines can remove up to 75% of the water from sap before boiling to extract syrup, while tubing systems collect sap with minimal damage to trees. The use of evaporators is also increasing efficiency, adding environmental and economic…
Spruce forests provide a range of benefits to the environment, economy, and society. They act as carbon sinks, support biodiversity, prevent soil erosion and flooding, and provide products such as timber, mushrooms, berries, wild herbs, and game. The industry creates jobs and generates revenue for local communities, and the forests also promote tourism and recreational activities. In addition, spruce forests…
California is facing an unprecedented wildfire season due to a record-breaking heatwave and scarcity of rainfall. More than a dozen active wildfires are burning across the state with the largest being the Dixie Fire in the northeastern part of the state. The tireless efforts of thousands of firefighters from California and other states have been critical in containing the fires…
Cedar trees may offer a sustainable and natural treatment option for Alzheimer’s disease, according to recent studies. A compound called thujone, found in the essential oil of cedar trees, has the potential to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which are connected to the development of the disease. Thujone may also prevent the formation of beta-amyloid plaques, which…
Oak trees, which support biodiversity, soil health, and the carbon cycle, are facing numerous threats globally. Development, climate change, and harmful pests and pathogens are the main threats. Climate change causes drought and threatens regeneration, leading to population decline, while floods and storms damage trees. Several conservation efforts are being undertaken to protect these trees, including promoting oak habitats, utilizing…
Pine tree farms in the US are struggling to thrive due to climate change, which has caused a reduction in pine tree yield and profits. This is due to high temperatures, droughts, wildfires, and changes in insect infestations, as well as unpredictable weather patterns. Pine tree farms also face environmental risks such as an increased risk of wildfires, water scarcity,…
The Bark Campaign is a new initiative launched by a group of animal behaviorists and welfare experts to raise awareness of canine mental health issues. Studies have shown that up to 50% of dogs may experience some form of mental distress and the causes can be numerous. The campaign’s aim is to help educate the public about the mental health…