Drought

 Recent California news reports have highlighted tragic cases of fatal mushroom misidentification. These cases involved species such as the highly toxic Amanita phalloides (commonly known as “death cap mushroom”) and can naturally spark fear. However, these headlines focus on worst-case scenarios and…

 Not only is Valentine’s day around the corner, but February is American Heart Month. While nutrition related trends come and go, research on heart health has consistently pointed to dietary patterns that prioritize plant-based, minimally processed foods. You may have heard of the Mediterranean diet,…

Kick Off the New Year with an Active Outdoor LifestyleFor many of us, the new year inspires goals to be more active and spend more time outdoors. But with chilly temperatures and limited daylight, finding the motivation to get outside can be tough. Still, even short bouts of outdoor movement—like walking or…

The winter holidays are filled with traditions — cozy gatherings, comforting foods, and the joy of giving. But from a mental wellbeing perspective, the way we give gifts can either nurture connection or add unnecessary stress.The Capitalist Crunch Every year, “Black Friday creep” starts earlier,…

You may be thinking about Thanksgiving Turkey this month, but November is also World Vegan Month. More Plants, Less Meat“Vegan” refers to a lifestyle that does not use any animal products, which includes following a plant-based diet. Plant-based diets have been associated with numerous benefits, both…

“The word itself ‘research’ is probably one of the dirtiest words… it stirs up silence, it conjures up bad memories, it raises a smile that is knowing and distrustful.”-Decolonizing Methodologies, Linda Tuhiwai SmithA problematic pastAs Dr. Linda Tuhiwai Smith, an Indigenous scholar and activist,…

It hasn’t been a terrible summer, yet it’s been some time since we have seen rain in our area, and some of your plants may be suffering. While you might not be able to save them all, you can take precautions in your garden that will save the plants it makes sense to save, define your gardening priorities,…

Why Smart Irrigation Matters Now More Than Ever As Southern California enters the peak of summer, water agencies, utilities, and residents are turning their attention to one of the region’s most pressing challenges—sustainable water use. July is officially recognized as Smart Irrigation Month, a…