"The wildfires that ravaged Los Angeles in January incinerated more than 16,000 structures and unleashed tons of toxic material into the air, water and soil. Many Pacific Palisades and Altadena homeowners who lost everything hoped the government debris-removal process would at least offer a fresh start for the land where their houses once stood."

"The White House unveiled a preliminary fiscal 2026 budget Friday, outlining a plan for Congress’ Republican majorities to try to slash funding for climate programs, renewable energy, vulnerable communities and other Democratic-aligned priorities." "The preliminary funding proposal outlines cuts the administration wants for myriad clean energy, climate and environment programs."

"For the first time, a federally recognized Indigenous tribe in the U.S. has led research using DNA to show their ancestral history."

"In California's water-stressed Central Valley, farmers are fallowing land and installing solar, providing financial stability and saving water."

"House Republicans passed a measure Thursday that would repeal the government’s decision to place California’s longfin smelt, a finger-sized fish, on the endangered species list."

"Farm groups were cheering moves announced this week by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) that will alter endangered species protections to allow for easier use of certain pesticides in agriculture."

"Proponents of regenerative farming say the practice can mitigate harmful climate change, reduce water pollution, and make foods more nutritious as farmers focus on improving the health of soil, water, and ecosystems." "But all that momentum comes with a dirty dark side, according to a new report that highlights  what is becoming an increasingly contentious debate over the merits of regenerative agriculture."

"Florida is poised to outlaw fluoride in drinking water under a bill approved Tuesday by the state legislature, adding the state to a growing backlash against a long-standing public health measure."

"More than 20 bills introduced among at least 12 states. Fears, farm damage vie with waste control practicalities."