Environment

New Leaf Energy is bypassing Santa Cruz County in its effort to seek approval for a new battery energy storage facility in Watsonville. For Monterey County Supervisor Glenn Church, who represents Moss Landing, that’s the worst-case scenario.

The Santa Lucia Conservancy is training a local workforce focused on reducing wildfire risk, Santa Cruz County expands language services ahead of the June 2 primary election, a retired Navy commander who started a volunteer otter monitoring project, and more in this week's local news roundup.

A civil grand jury report finds gaps in emergency radio communications in Monterey County. And, who’s in the race for California Insurance Commissioner.

A new resiliency plan for the Pajaro River Watershed addresses climate concerns. Plus, tourism spending in Monterey County shows a potentially encouraging trend.

How a volunteer otter monitoring project changed scientists’ understanding of the animals.

Santa Cruz Parks and Recreation Department is inviting residents to plant trees for Arbor Day. And, a new study from UC Berkeley finds California community college students who consistently receive CalFresh food benefits do better academically.

The Santa Lucia Conservancy works to train up a local workforce focused on reducing wildfire risk on the Central Coast. And, primary election candidates in Santa Cruz County discuss their plans for housing.

A U.S. Department of Agriculture judge ruled that the agency erred when it terminated a Cal State Monterey Bay grant last year. And, a preview of May Day events on the Central Coast.

The Marina Coast Water District is reviving an old desalination plant to boost water supply. And, the International Olympic Committee is reintroducing a mandatory genetic test for athletes competing in women's sports at the 2028 LA Games.

New UC Santa Cruz research shows climate change puts many California native tree species at risk. Plus, a state bill could help seniors and people with disabilities harden their properties against wildfire.