Next year California will put into effect a "cap and trade" system to control greenhouse gas emissions.

"Residents of Hinkley, made famous by 'Erin Brockovich,' weigh an offer by PG&E to buy homes near chromium-tainted water. Animosity is high between residents wanting to sell and those opting to stay."

"An intense advertising blitz, funded by Monsanto Co and others, has eroded support for a California ballot proposal that would require U.S. food makers to disclose when their products contain genetically modified organisms."

"El Dorado County environmental health officials are urging residents and visitors to take precautions after a chipmunk found in the Lake Tahoe Basin last week tested presumptive positive for the bacteria that causes the plague."

"Gov. Jerry Brown calls for the immediate release of a cheaper, but less environmentally friendly, blend of gasoline in an effort to bring down pump prices."

"Utility is hoping to bring Unit 2 back into service at 70% capacity for five months before taking it offline for further inspections."

"Cutbacks leave rangers outnumbered in dealing with car burglaries, drug deals, gold prospectors and rowdy parties along the mountain creek."

Climate change and warmer temperatures are already hurting agriculture in California.