From global warming, to climate change, to stem cell research, to biotechnology, to many other technological innovations, independent voters aren’t interested in the usual partisan spin on science issues. Independents want to explore all sides of the scientific debate so they can make informed decisions at the ballot box. Science and technological innovation, when applied in an efficient, ethical, and transparent manner, can serve as vital tools in improving the economy, enhancing our quality of life, and crafting effective public policy. Science is all about questioning the consensus and maintaining an open mind, no matter where the facts may lead.
All four Senators from California and Nevada, one Republican and three Democrats, are jointly sponsoring the Lake Tahoe Restoration Act of 2010. A new report by UC Davis scientists using 100 years of data and computer models of the future shows why immediate action is needed.
A new report from the Energy Biosciences Institute in Berkeley says biofuel from algae may be commercially viable within ten years. While some say this assessment is discouraging, I find it optimistic.
The Justice department issued an appeals court briefing last Friday that has the potential to change the face of patent law and reshape the biotech industry as we know it.
It’s harvest time for many California agricultural products. Although wet weather has delayed the harvest of several crops and potentially damaged one, specialty crop output should be plentiful overall.
Last winter’s bountiful snowfall in the Sierras pulled California out of its four-year drought and provided much-needed water to farms, homes and businesses. This past summer was unusually cool and wet, bringing some changes in the growth pattern of vegetation. So what’s on tap for the coming winter season?
Weeks after a federal judge issued an order to halt the commercialization of genetically engineered (GE) sugar beets pending an environmental impact study, the USDA has broken the law and permitted farmers to continue planting the controversial seed.
A massive voter push back is underway as powerful pharmaceutical lobbying forces target dietary supplement manufacturers.
Both Farmers’ Almanacs (yes, there are two of them) are predicting a La Nina this winter, while the NOAA Climate Prediction Center says we’ll have an El Nino.
A US-Dutch team of scientists has found that the rate of melting ice in Greenland and the western Antarctic is only about half what was previously thought. The error occurred when the scientists failed to take into account movements in the crust of the earth that occur as tons of ice melts. 
A federal judge has revoked the Agriculture Department’s approval of genetically modified sugar beets until their effect on other plants is more thoroughly studied. The anti-GMO movement is hailing last Friday’s ruling as a major victory for consumers and the environment.
