This week USU’s Ecology Center hosted Dr. Margaret Walls for their monthly seminar series. Walls is an economist and senior fellow at Resources for the Future, an environmental nonprofit focused on environmental policy solutions.

Walls’ Wednesday seminar discussed environmental justice and federal funding for conservation.

The recent United States Census means it’s time for redistricting in Utah. Congressional, state and school board maps are being redrawn to better reflect the changing population. It’s a process that Utah State political science professor Michael Petersen said is very important.

Reports of cougar sightings have increased across Utah this year. This may be related to both the ongoing drought, as habitat conditions deteriorate, and increased outdoor activity, as humans seek solace from COVID-19. With the onset of fall hunting, fishing, hiking and camping, the chance of encountering a cougar may also increase.