climate change Data centers are guzzling California’s water. We have no idea how much By Rachel Becker | CalMatters | May 17, 2026 Data centers are the ganglia of artificial intelligence — and they are spreading to regions reliant on overtapped groundwater.
Bay Area California has 6 weeks of gas supply. After that, it gets expensive By Alejandro Lazo | CalMatters | May 15, 2026 At an average of $6.15 a gallon, California drivers are paying the highest gas prices in the nation.
Environment California’s new plastic recycling rules spark fights from all sides By Alejandra Reyes-Velarde | CalMatters | May 13, 2026 Plastic producers have until 2032 to make all their packaging recyclable or compostable.
environment Buzzkill: Why West Marin’s scenic ranchlands have become a ‘food desert’ for honey bees By Ruth Dusseault | Bay City News | May 11, 2026 Bees and cows want different things.
Environment Lost sea lion named ‘Sierra’ rescued near busy Highway 101 in Brisbane By Pete Young | Bay City News | May 10, 2026 The young pup was taken to the Marine Mammal Center in Marin County.
Environment Oakland couple hit with nearly $1M fine for cutting down 38 protected trees By Kiley Russell, Bay City News | May 7, 2026 The council voted 5-3 to impose a record fine of over $915,135.40 on property owners Matthew Bernard and Lynn Warner for removing the protected trees in 2021 and 2022.
Around Town Flower Moon and more: Introducing The Exedra’s Monthly Almanac By David Thigpen | May 1, 2026 A compendium of useful information for local residents.
Around Town Annual ‘Bringing Back the Natives’ garden and green home showcase returns May 2-3 By Kathy Kramer | Reader Submission | April 27, 2026 Visit over 25 native gardens, including some electrified homes, in the Oakland-Berkeley-Piedmont area (FREE registration required).
Bay Area Cashless payments expand to 5 East Bay regional parks this Wednesday By Gabe Agcaoili | Bay City News | April 27, 2026 Ardenwood Farm and the Temescal Regional Recreation Area are among the parks shifting to cashless operations.
Bay Area Who wants to be California’s insurance commissioner? Your guide to the candidates By Levi Sumagaysay | CalMatters | April 27, 2026 CalMatters interviewed five leading candidates who want to regulate one of the world’s biggest insurance markets. Here’s what they said.