Yosemite has declared the start of its 2026 fire season and is urging visitors to follow campfire, smoking and parking rules as fuels dry. Park officials warn restrictions could tighten as conditions worsen.

Mentor’s council narrowly approved a $1.2M design contract to study shoreline protections at Mentor Lagoons. Officials say the design work will shape any future $40M construction ask to voters.

From the Yolo Causeway to downtown bridges, experts estimate about half a million bats stream out each night — a spectacular natural pest‑control force and a conservation challenge.