Bats - Victims of Poor PR

It's difficult to think of Halloween without thinking of the classical monsters like Frankenstein and Dracula. Unfortunately, thanks to the good ol' Count, we have the wrong impression of bats.






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Autumn Colors - A Biochemical Symphony

Bright reds and purples are the hallmark of a stunning fall color display. While on the surface, trees my appear quiet and stationary, at the chemical level, there's a lot going on right now.
  
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Healthier Soybean Oil on the Horizon

In the not too distant future …trans fat in processed food could go the way of the dodo bird. Researchers with the USDA and the University of Missouri have bred a new soybean with health traits akin to olive oil.



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Backyard Bird Diverstiy Requires Green Corridors

Photo by Kurt Roehlke; Photo editing by Roger Meissen

Human activities like agriculture, rural development and urbanization can create islands of green areas surrounded by cropland, pastures or pavement. This isolates birds and mammals, eventually causing their downfall.  By understanding how wildlife use forest corridors, agriculture, rural areas and cities can continue to grow while maintaining healthy animal populations for future generations.


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When Temperatures Climb Your Body Needs More Water

Photo by Gokhan Okur

Soaring summer temperatures and high humidity means your body will need more fluids to keep it working properly, to maintain a healthy body temperature, and to avoid feeling fatigued.








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Synthetic Turf on Playing Fields Carries Hidden Dangers

During the hot, humid days of summer, playing fields covered with synthetic turf can bring unseen dangers.






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Brown Patches in Your Lawn Could be a Fungal Disease, Not a Lack of Water

You're out in your yard and you notice several patches of brown grass in your lawn.  Your first impulse may be to grab the garden hose and douse the area with water.  But, instead of helping, you could be making things much worse.






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