In today's newscast:
Climate change puts native trees at risk
New research from UC Santa Cruz shows climate change is a greater threat to California’s native trees than previously thought.
The study estimates in the next 30 years some species may lose as much as half of their habitat.
Lead author Blair McLaughlin says the rising temperatures and droughts that come with climate change increase water stress.
"It can also lead to higher vulnerability to pests and disease," she said. "And it can also lead to more frequent and severe wildfires."
In some places, this could create what’s called "zombie forests," where hardier adult trees remain but can’t produce seedlings.
Joshua trees, certain oaks and madrones are a few of the vulnerable species.
McLaughlin says maintaining groundwater levels and careful planning can help prevent loss.
" For example, that would be to do things like make sure that we aren't putting new developments in the limited areas that are likely to support these threatened species into the future," she said.
She adds addressing climate change and supporting ecosystem stewards like indigenous tribes and ranching communities is vital.
State bill would help fund home-hardening against wildfires
A bill advancing in the state legislature would help seniors and people with disabilities pay to harden their homes against wildfires.
Dan Okenfuss is with the California Foundation for Independent Living Centers, which supports the bill.
"Thousands of our consumers in the independent living centers network live in high fire risk zones, and unfortunately they don't have the ability—either physically or financially—to harden their homes and property to reduce their exposure," he said. "This is why the pilot program will help bridge that affordability gap so these consumers can hire contractors to make these protective modifications."
If approved, the bill would appropriate a million dollars from the state's general fund to create a pilot grant.
CapRadio contributed reporting.
