July 2026
Clint Reilly, influential California political consultant, dies at 79
Reilly ran successful campaigns for California’s most recognizable politicians, including Dianne Feinstein, Barbara Boxer and Nancy Pelosi. He later turned his attention to real estate and local media
Some birds defy overall plunge in bird numbers
Bird multitudes are slipping away on a global scale, but a new study offers hope for how we can make life easier for them.
As North America grapples with destructive wildfires, ‘super’ El Niño may offer hope
With a very strong El Niño almost certainly on its way, the southern U.S. could see extra precipitation this winter, damping wildfire risk next summer.
Rescued eagle Jackie battles anemia, inflammation. ‘It’s too early to predict the outcome’
Rescued Big Bear eagle Jackie has anemia and kidney inflammation, and remains in critical condition. However, she is eating and even fighting with care staff, according to an educational nonprofit.
Coal mines say they cut their emissions. Scientists don’t believe them
A tweak in European Union rules for reporting methane has allowed open-pit mine operators to undercount their emissions.
HHS withholds $867 million in Medicaid payments to California as part of ‘crackdown on fraud’
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy jr. said Tuesday his agency will withhold $867.5 million in Medicaid payments to California over concerns about fraud.
Super pollutants — California sues Trump administration for ignoring climate-changing fridge chemicals
The Environmental Protection Agency moved in May to loosen restrictions on climate super pollutants used in refrigeration.
‘A five-alarm fire’: Western reservoirs that supply California fall to record low levels
The Colorado River’s largest reservoirs, Lake Mead and Lake Powell, have declined to the lowest combined levels on record. Researchers say this underscores the urgent need to cut water use.
Oystercatchers, with sharp bills and beady eyes, making a comeback, thanks to conservation
A shorebird known for its sharp, orange bill and beady eyes is making a comeback in North America, thanks to a yearslong conservation effort.
Newsom pushes California to crack down on sex trafficking — fast
Gov. Gavin Newsom signed an executive order calling major state agencies to come up with a plan within 60 days to work together to curb trafficking and help survivors.