Water

Affordability Analysis of Bakersfield's Proposed 2026-2031 Sewer Rate IncreasesLaljeet Sangha, Ph.D. UC Cooperative Extension Advisor– UCCE KernKey TakeawaysBakersfield needs to invest in its aging sewer system. That is not in question.At the proposed FY 2030-31 rate of $875/year, an estimated 33,700…

Can reconnecting with one’s traditional culture be an important key to healthy habits? A recent community-based study evaluated the impact of a culturally-grounded intervention designed to improve beverage consumption habits among young Navajo children. Between 2021 and 2023, 74 families participated in…

 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…

 Advancing Water Equity Across CaliforniaWater systems are both technical and social infrastructures. Across California, disparities in access, affordability, infrastructure reliability, water quality, and exposure to environmental risk continue to affect communities differently. Addressing these…

 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,…

A new study in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine reports findings from a randomized controlled trial—the gold standard study design in health research—showing that promoting drinking water in elementary schools can help prevent overweight and reduce sugar-sweetened beverage intake among…

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…