Using mulch in your garden or landscape helps conserve water and prevent weeds. This new UC IPM video explains how to prepare the site, describes various types of organic mulch available, and demonstrates useful techniques for effective weed control.

For more information on mulch, see the UC IPM website about using mulch in the garden.

See UC IPM's pages on weed identification and control:

• Weed Management in Landscapes
• Weed...

The following press release was distributed on Sept. 20, 2016 by San Joaquin County agricultural officials.

Insect that carries disease deadly to citrus trees found in San Joaquin County.

The San Joaquin County Agricultural Commissioner, in cooperation with the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) and the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), has already begun an extensive survey in response to the detection of three Asian Citrus Psyllids (ACP) within the City of Manteca.

The three ACPs found in Manteca were detected on September 13, 2016 near N. Union Road and Lathrop Road.

These finds were adjacent to an existing...

If you plan to camp this summer, remember to wait until you arrive at your destination before you purchase firewood. Why?

If you bring your own firewood to a campground, you could unknowingly spread invasive pests and diseases that can harm local trees. New infestations of tree-killing insects and diseases are often found in campgrounds and parks as a result of campers moving firewood.

Once you arrive at your destination, pests can emerge from the firewood and spread to the trees and forests where you camp. Invasive and hard-to-control pests kill several million native trees every year, causing environmental and economic problems.

Ways You Can Help

• Buy it where you burn it! Purchase firewood...