This issue delves into the forces that shape our energy system – from corporate profit motives, to the individuals with solar panels on their roofs. These decisions affect our ability to mitigate climate change, which is also touched on in this issue from the Southwest’s songbirds struggling with increased heatwaves, to volunteer firefighters battling more wildfires.
A monsoon stream of dear friends
We welcome a new staffer, and the return of another.
When solar eclipses coal
A solar eclipse comes to the West as solar energy surges past coal.
Hunting for feral figs
The gem-like fruit are best when found free in the urban wilds.
Global Bullying
My heart broke when I read about Chris Apassingok, the young Yupik whale hunter from Gambell, Alaska (“Death Threats,” HCN, 7/24/17). A couple of decades ago, I would have agreed with Paul Watson of the Sea Shepherd Society — although not as vehemently or with malice — on the principle that it’s not necessary to…
A human head for a bear’s snack; lost in the wild; a dog returns home
Mishaps and mayhem from around the region.
Jeffers and Brower
Thank you, Brian Calvert, for sharing your deep dive into the spirit (“Down the Dark Mountain,” HCN, 7/24/17) and writing personally of a journey so many of us are making. As you discovered, poet Robinson Jeffers preceded us on that journey, and his works deserve a new generation of readers. He deeply inspired “archdruid” David…
Jeffers far from forgotten
Brian Calvert’s piece “Down the Dark Mountain” (HCN, 7/24/17) was good, beautifully written, but … Robinson Jeffers a “forgotten” poet? While I’m glad Jeffers’ work and life have been brought to the attention of HCN readers, as one of those readers myself I have to tell you I’m a little peeved. You would have a…
Latest: Malheur occupiers sentenced
Ten other participants still await their punishment.
The mystery of owls, revealed
A deep look at 53 owl species, their habitats, mating rituals and more.
Sage grouse changes; Superfund funding; Sacrificial sea lions
HCN.org news in brief.
What a doctor learns after a life’s work
A pediatrician reflects on his work in Navajo Nation.
Solace and obligation
I’ve read Brian Calvert’s essay “Down the Dark Mountain” (HCN, 7/24/17) twice now, and will read it again, along with some of Robinson Jeffers’ poetry. I can’t recall a more intriguing and exhilarating piece of environmental journalism. Rare is the environmentalist who will acknowledge that we do not appear able to avert an ecocide, and confronting…
Countering the takers
I was moved by Brian Calvert’s eloquence, his personal soul-searching, and his finding solace and hope in the words of Robinson Jeffers. I was less impressed by his conclusions centering on beauty and justice and his referencing Douglas Tompkins’ quote, “If anything can save the world, I’d put my money on beauty.” It seems clear…
In solar scuffle, big utilities meet their match
Solar advocates win a surprising victory in Nevada.
U.S. House moves to streamline water projects
A controversial bill would weaken states’ control over water.
Desert songbirds struggle with more frequent heat waves
The number of days Southwestern birds face deadly dehydration may be increasing.
What would the rural West do without volunteer firefighters?
Small-town firefighters are often first responders to some of the biggest blazes.
Latest: Utah counties claim access to old roads
A convoluted legal battle takes a step forward.
Legal scholars dispute whether monuments are permanent
Courts likely will decide the fate of designations threatened by Trump’s review.
Under Trump, tribal land ownership is not a priority
Hearings and Interior statements signal a step back for tribes trying to acquire lands.
One grid to rule them all
And in the darkness, bind them: The West’s bid for one big electric grid.