January is National Radon Awareness Month

Did you know that radon is the leading cause of lung cancer deaths among nonsmokers in America and claims the lives of 21,000 Americans each year? Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms when uranium in the earth’s surface begins to breakdown. Radon is all around us and normally isn’t a problem. However, if your home is sitting on soil that is emitting high amounts of radon gas, you and your family could be at risk. Radon gas moves from the soil into a home through pores in concrete as well as gaps in walls and flooring. Any
house, of any age, in any state, can have elevated radon levels. Testing your home is the only way to know.

Making Healthy Choices Instead of New Year’s Resolutions

As the calendar turns to a new year, many of us are drawn to the tradition of setting New Year’s resolutions. These resolutions often focus on lofty goals like losing weight, getting fit, or adopting a healthier lifestyle. While the intention is good, resolutions can sometimes feel like a temporary fix or lead to frustration when they aren’t fully realized. Instead of committing to resolutions that may fizzle out by February, why not focus on making healthy choices every day?

Healthy choices, unlike resolutions, are not dependent on a specific date or unrealistic expectations. They are practical, sustainable, and integrated into your daily life. Here’s why making healthy choices is a more effective and fulfilling way to improve your well-being, and how you can start incorporating them into your routine today.

How to Care for Poinsettias: A Guide to Keeping Your Holiday Plant Healthy

Poinsettias are most recognizable with the holiday season, their vibrant red, white, pink, or speckled bracts (often mistaken for flowers) adding a festive touch to homes and offices. Native to Mexico, these plants, scientifically known as Euphorbia pulcherrima, thrive during winter with proper care. Here’s how to keep your poinsettias healthy and vibrant throughout the holiday season and beyond.

Monarch Butterfly Proposed for Listing Under the US Endangered Species Act

The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service announced on December 10 that they are proposing to list the monarch butterfly as a threatened species under the U.S. Endangered Species Act.

Scientists estimate that monarch populations have declined by about 80% in the eastern U.S. and 95% in the western U.S. since monitoring began several decades ago. Last winter, the eastern monarchs’ overwintering site in Mexico shrank to a mere 2.2 acres, down from almost 45 acres in the late 1990s.

NC Farm Succession School Registration Is Now Open

Farmers and farm families across North Carolina are invited to take part in the NC Farm Succession School, a full-day workshop focused on helping farm families plan for the future. With over half of North Carolina’s farmers over the age of 65 and the USDA estimating that nearly 70% of farmland will change ownership over the next two decades, many farm families will be facing transition issues in the upcoming years.

Caring for Livestock During Winter

As temperatures drop and winter sets in, the needs of livestock change dramatically. Ensuring the well-being of animals during the cold months is crucial for maintaining their health and productivity. Proper preparation and ongoing care can make a significant difference in their comfort and survival. Here are some essential tips for caring for livestock during winter.

Tidying Up Your Garden in Winter

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, many gardeners hang up their tools and wait for spring. However, winter is an excellent time to tidy up your garden and prepare it for a healthy, thriving growing season. With a little effort, you can protect your plants, improve soil health, and even set the stage for new growth.