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Droughts are having increasingly significant economic impacts. A new report shows that without effective adaptation, the costs associated with climatic events could surge by at least 35% by 2035.    The global land area affected by drought has doubled since 1900. In recent decades, nearly 40% of the planet experienced increased frequency and intensity of…

Wildfires devastate forests and watersheds leaving behind contaminants that continue to pollute rivers and streams longer than previously estimated. A new study offers the first large-scale assessment of post-wildfire water quality. It analyzed water quality in over 500 watersheds, aiming to identify trends in post-wildfire water quality across the entire US West.    Fire ash…

Storms coming from atmospheric rivers bring vital moisture to the US West Coast. However, they also cause most of the region’s floods. Storm size alone does not always predict flood risk, ground conditions also play a critical role.    New research explores the drivers of floods, by analyzing decades of atmospheric river storms. It examined…

Columbia River tribes have long recognized the importance and drastic decline of the Pacific lamprey.  Years ago, they began raising alarms, initiating action, and collecting data. This groundwork led to the development of the first Pacific Lamprey Restoration Plan in 2011.   After years of dedicated work, a new, more in-depth plan has arrived. This…

Complex environmental challenges demand integrated solutions. Multi-benefit projects, such as realigning levees to reconnect floodplains, can be powerful tools to help us address water challenges. They tackle climate adaptation, water management, and ecosystem restoration all at once. However, securing funding for these comprehensive initiatives often proves difficult. Traditional funding sources typically support single-purpose projects.  …

Irrigation (at some level) is essential for much of the US’s agricultural production. In the Great Plains region irrigation is used to supply water during dry periods, encourage crop growth, and maximize yields. A new study looks at how irrigation may affect summer heat stress (a combination of temperature and humidity) and public health impacts.…

Increasing water scarcity has resulted in more agricultural fields being left unplanted in California. The fallowed farmlands are now the state’s top source of human-caused dust. New research shows they account for 88% of anthropogenic dust events, especially in the Central Valley. Dust storms from these areas threaten public health, road safety, and long-term water…

A new algae system could revolutionize farming practices in Arizona, helping farmers achieve better crop yields with significantly less water. This approach – developed through a collaboration between Arizona State University and Phoenix-based soil health company MyLand – offers a vital solution for regions facing water scarcity. The aim is to create “more crop per…

New research from Colorado State University and Cornell University shows that solar arrays can actively reduce drought stress in Colorado’s grasslands. By casting partial shade, the panels boost moisture levels and drive plant growth, especially in dry years. The study strengthens the case for using solar arrays to stabilize ecosystems while producing renewable energy.  …