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Kansas State University Warns of Fall Armyworm Threat to Lawns

Kansas State University Warns of Fall Armyworm Threat to Lawns

Kansas State University has issued a warning to lawn owners about the presence of fall armyworm moths across the state, particularly in south central Kansas. These pests are known to cause significant damage to lawns and crops by creating dry patches. The university advises residents to look for signs of armyworm activity, such as caterpillars and jagged feeding marks on grass blades. Experts recommend preventive measures, including using a mixture of water and soap to detect the worms and applying pesticides for long-term protection.

Return of Flesh-Eating Parasite Raises Concerns in the U.S.

Return of Flesh-Eating Parasite Raises Concerns in the U.S.

The New World screwworm, a parasitic fly eradicated from the U.S. nearly 60 years ago, has re-emerged, with cases reported in Texas and New Mexico. The parasite lays eggs in open wounds, and the larvae feed on living tissue. The USDA has launched a $25 million initiative to curb its spread, including releasing sterile male flies to prevent reproduction. While the risk to North Carolinians is low, experts advise vigilance, especially for those traveling to affected areas. The USDA's protocols aim to prevent the parasite from spreading further.

Cincinnati Enquirer

Which Ohio city has the worst bed bug problem? Terminix and Orkin disagree

Which Ohio city has the worst bed bug problem? Terminix and Orkin disagree

Two bed bug rankings put Ohio near the top but don't agree on which city is the worst. Here's how the lists compare.

Orange County Braces for Potentially Worst West Nile Virus Season Amid Rising Mosquito Activity

Orange County Braces for Potentially Worst West Nile Virus Season Amid Rising Mosquito Activity

Orange County officials are warning residents about an unprecedented level of West Nile virus activity in mosquitoes, suggesting this could be the worst season on record. The Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District reports a significant increase in virus-positive mosquito samples, particularly in the northwestern areas like Fullerton, Anaheim, and Buena Park. Despite the heightened mosquito activity, no human cases have been confirmed yet. The virus is transmitted when mosquitoes bite infected birds and then humans. Residents are urged to use mosquito repellent and eliminate standing water to reduce mosquito breeding.

Utah Residents Report Increased Pest Activity Amid Hot Summer Months

Utah Residents Report Increased Pest Activity Amid Hot Summer Months

Residents across Utah have reported a noticeable increase in pest activity during the hot summer months. Reports include sightings of ants, black widow spiders, ticks, and orb weavers. A Facebook post in the Hurricane Utah Community group highlighted the issue, with many residents noting ants invading their homes despite regular pest control efforts. Entomologist Trent Frazer attributes the unusual black widow activity to a warmer winter, which allowed these spiders to become active earlier and produce more egg sacs. While black widows are venomous, bites are rarely fatal, but caution is advised. Additionally, ticks have been reported near Orem City Center Park, prompting health officials to remind the public about the potential for tick-borne diseases. Visitors to Antelope Island State Park are also seeing the return of western spotted orb weavers, which are harmless and help control insect populations.

Utah Sees Surge in Pest Complaints Amid Hot Summer Months

Utah Sees Surge in Pest Complaints Amid Hot Summer Months

Utah residents are experiencing an increase in pest activity this summer, with reports of ants, black widow spiders, and ticks on the rise. The hot weather has led to more sightings of these pests, particularly in areas like Orem City Center Park. Health officials have issued reminders about the potential diseases carried by ticks and advised residents to use insect repellent and avoid tall grass. Additionally, the return of western spotted orb weavers at Antelope Island State Park is noted, as these spiders help control insect populations. The increase in pest activity is attributed to the warmer temperatures, which typically lead to heightened insect and spider activity during the summer months.

Canadian Town Finally Removes Foul Fish Sauce Smell After 20 Years

Canadian Town Finally Removes Foul Fish Sauce Smell After 20 Years

The small town of St. Mary’s in Newfoundland and Labrador is finally addressing a long-standing issue of a foul smell caused by abandoned tanks of fermented fish sauce. The Atlantic Seafood Sauce Company left behind 110 tanks, each holding 3,000 gallons of fish sauce, over 20 years ago. The town's volunteer mayor, Steve Ryan, described the smell as extremely unpleasant, likening it to the worst rotted fish smell imaginable. A cleanup operation has begun, funded by the provincial government, to remove the sauce and eliminate the odor.

EPA Holds Public Meeting on Eighteen Mile Creek Cleanup Efforts

EPA Holds Public Meeting on Eighteen Mile Creek Cleanup Efforts

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conducted a public meeting in Lockport, New York, to discuss the ongoing cleanup of Eighteen Mile Creek. This site, which has been under investigation for nearly a decade, is contaminated with lead and PCBs (Polychlorinated biphenyls). The EPA is focusing on removing contaminated soil from residential properties along the creek. The project, which spans 18 miles, is part of a broader effort to address industrial pollution dating back to the mid-1800s. The EPA assured residents that there is no immediate public health risk and emphasized ongoing communication with affected property owners.

House Digest Glance

Harder To Repel: How The U.S. Accidentally Developed More Resistant Mosquitoes

Harder To Repel: How The U.S. Accidentally Developed More Resistant Mosquitoes

America's mosquito-control efforts had an itchy side effect. Here's how resistance developed and what homeowners can do to protect their yards.

The Commercial Appeal

What was happening in Memphis history on July 31? A look back through the years

What was happening in Memphis history on July 31? A look back through the years

From housing for the elderly at the St. Peter Home for Children to the Courthouse being closed on Saturdays, here's what was making headlines.

Chicago's Rat Problem Persists Despite Current Abatement Efforts

Chicago's Rat Problem Persists Despite Current Abatement Efforts

A recent audit by Chicago's Office of Inspector General has found that the city's current rat abatement program is unlikely to achieve long-term control of the rat population. The report criticizes the Department of Streets and Sanitation for focusing on reactive measures, such as poisoning, rather than proactive solutions like monitoring sanitary conditions and addressing root causes. The audit suggests adopting Integrated Pest Management practices to improve effectiveness. Despite a slight decrease in rat complaints, the city remains one of the 'rattiest' in the U.S.

NBC Nightly News Covers Pope Leo XIV’s Slavery Ancestry and Fauci’s Fifth Amendment Testimony

NBC Nightly News Covers Pope Leo XIV’s Slavery Ancestry and Fauci’s Fifth Amendment Testimony

NBC Nightly News featured a segment on July 29, 2026, covering various topics including an interview with Pope Leo and a hearing involving Dr. Anthony Fauci. Pope Leo discussed his family's history with slavery, providing a personal perspective on historical injustices. Meanwhile, Dr. Fauci was noted for pleading the fifth during a COVID-19 hearing, a move that has drawn attention and speculation. The broadcast also covered severe weather events impacting the East Coast, showcasing the diverse range of issues addressed in the news.