The interest in all things lunar continues as mankind’s March to knowledge grows exponentially everyday.
Category: Vegtable soup
Recent Texas flooding brings memory to the forefront.
Flash floods are among the deadliest natural hazards worldwide, responsible for a significant number of deaths and substantial economic losses. Their sudden onset leaves very little time for warnings, making them particularly dangerous. Climate change, rapid urbanization, and land-use changes are contributing to an increase in their frequency and intensity.
Here’s a breakdown of flash flood statistics:
Global Statistics (relevant to developing world)
* Fatalities: Flash floods cause over 5,000 deaths annually worldwide and account for 85% of all flood-related fatalities.
* Economic Losses: They result in economic losses exceeding $50 billion annually.
* Mortality Rate: Flash floods have the highest mortality rate among different classes of flooding (e.g., riverine, coastal).
* Developing World Impact: In tropical countries, as high as 90% of deaths from flash floods are due to drowning from rapidly rising waters. Developing countries often have limited infrastructure and early warning systems, making their populations more vulnerable.
* Examples:
* In 2022, flash floods in Pakistan killed over 1,700 people and displaced millions.
* When Hurricane Mitch struck Central America in 1998, it caused over 11,000 casualties and destroyed hundreds of thousands of homes due to flash floods, floods, landslides, and mudslides.
* From 1990 to 2022, floods recorded in 168 countries affected over 3.2 billion people, caused 218,353 deaths, and resulted in over $1.3 trillion in economic losses.
* China was the most affected country in terms of population (1.9 billion) and economic damage ($442 billion), and the second largest in deaths (30,890).
* India had the second largest population affected (629 million) and the largest number of deaths (46,506).
United States
* Fatalities: Flooding has caused an average of more than 125 deaths per year in the United States over the past few decades, with flash floods being the nation’s top storm-related killer.
* Recent Events:
* In July 2025, devastating flash floods across the Hill Country in central Texas left a staggering trail of destruction and claimed at least 120 lives (as of July 9, 2025), with many more unaccounted for.
* Hurricane Helene (September 2024) caused about 250 deaths, many due to massive inland flooding.
* Eastern Kentucky floods in 2022 led to 45 deaths.
* Hurricane Harvey (2017) caused over 300,000 structures to be damaged and an estimated $125 billion in damage, with nearly all deaths attributed to freshwater flooding.
* Overall Disasters (1980-2024): The U.S. has experienced 403 billion-dollar weather and climate disasters, claiming nearly 17,000 lives and resulting in more than $2.9 trillion in direct costs. The frequency and cost of these disasters have increased dramatically.
* The average number of billion-dollar disasters per year has grown from about three in the 1980s to 19 in the last 10 years.
* 2023 and 2024 shattered previous records with 28 and 27 billion-dollar disasters, respectively.
* Circumstance of Fatalities: 63% of flood-related fatalities are associated with vehicles.
Canada
* Costliest Natural Disaster: Flooding is the costliest natural disaster for Canadians.
* Frequency: Floods occur five times as often as wildfires in Canada. Between 1900 and 2005, there were 241 flood disasters. Statistics show the number of floods has almost tripled from the 1960s to the 1970s and continues to rise.
* Recent Events:
* In July 2024, torrential rain and flash floods in Toronto and southern Ontario caused over $940 million in insured damage.
* The 2024 year is already the costliest in terms of catastrophic weather-related insurance payouts, surpassing the 2016 Fort McMurray wildfire, with one life lost during the four largest weather catastrophes (wildfires, hail, floods) in the summer of 2024.
* The 2013 Alberta floods are considered the costliest natural disaster in Canada’s history.
* Historical Fatalities:
* Hurricane Hazel in October 1954 caused flooding in Toronto, resulting in more than 80 deaths and severe damage.
* The 2021 British Columbia floods, a once-in-500-year event, swallowed highways, washed away bridges, cut off railroads, and led to at least four deaths.
* In 1950, the Winnipeg flood affected one-sixth of the city, evacuating over 100,000 people and costing about $126 million (adjusted for 2020), damaging 10,500 homes.
These statistics highlight the escalating threat of flash floods globally and regionally, emphasizing the urgent need for improved early warning systems, resilient infrastructure, and adaptation strategies in the face of a changing climate.
May the recent flash flood in Texas be seen as a going forward opportunity rather than catastrophic loss doing no one some good.
When engaging in water activities, especially swimming, prioritizing safety is paramount. One of the most critical aspects of water safety is the “buddy system” – always swimming with another person.
Here’s a breakdown of why this is so important and other key water safety tips:
The Importance of the Buddy System
* Immediate Assistance: In an emergency, such as a cramp, exhaustion, or a sudden medical issue, a buddy can provide immediate help. This could mean pulling you to safety, calling for help, or performing CPR if they are trained. Even a few seconds can make a significant difference in a water emergency.
* Accountability: Knowing someone is watching out for you and vice-versa adds a layer of accountability. You’re less likely to take unnecessary risks when someone else’s safety is also a consideration.
* Reduced Panic: If you get into trouble, the presence of a calm and capable buddy can help reduce panic, which is often a major factor in drowning incidents.
* No One is Immune: Even strong swimmers can get into trouble. Unexpected currents, hidden obstacles, or sudden health issues can affect anyone.
* Supervision for Children: For children, the buddy system extends to constant, active adult supervision. A child should never be left unsupervised near water, even for a moment.
General Water Safety Tips:
* Learn to Swim: This is the most fundamental water safety skill. Enroll in swimming lessons if you don’t know how to swim or want to improve your skills.
* Choose Supervised Locations: Whenever possible, swim in areas with lifeguards. Lifeguards are trained professionals who can respond quickly to emergencies.
* Know Your Limits: Don’t overestimate your swimming ability. If you’re tired or unsure, get out of the water. Avoid swimming long distances in open water if you’re not properly trained.
* Check Water Conditions: Be aware of currents, tides, water depth, and potential hazards like rocks, weeds, or marine life. Look for signs indicating dangerous conditions.
* Never Dive into Unknown Depths: Always check the depth of the water before diving in. Many serious injuries occur from diving into shallow water or striking hidden objects.
* Avoid Alcohol and Drugs: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time, significantly increasing the risk of accidents in and around water.
* Wear a Life Jacket: If you are participating in boating activities, or are a weak swimmer in open water, always wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved (or equivalent national standard) life jacket.
* Sun Protection: While not directly related to drowning, prolonged exposure to the sun can lead to sunburn and heatstroke, which can impair your ability to react in an emergency.
* Enter Feet First: When entering unfamiliar water, go in feet first to avoid surprises.
* Emergency Preparedness:
* Know how to call for help.
* If you see someone in trouble, don’t just jump in unless you are trained in water rescue. “Reach or throw, don’t go.” Extend a rescue device (like a pole, rope, or life preserver) to the person.
* Learn CPR and basic first aid.
By following these guidelines, especially the crucial buddy system, you can significantly reduce the risks associated with water activities and ensure a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone.
Water safety is everyone’s concern.
Be safe you’re in control…
One thought, make it home to…
On this Day: August 26th 2002
The Earth summit 2002 begins in Johannesburg South Africa.
2025 Schedule https://www.facebook.com/share/v/UFE4QB146J2E9R5w/?mibextid=Dpxkx3
Thank you for your time in Merritt…
The Bass Coast Festival is happening this weekend in Merritt, British Columbia, from July 11-14, 2025.
Regarding proceeds and attendance:
Attendance:
Bass Coast Festival has capped its attendance at 6,500 people each year to maintain its community aspect and focus on the overall experience. This number includes artists, festival-goers, volunteers, and vendors.
Proceeds:
While specific overall proceeds for the 2025 festival aren’t publicly detailed, Bass Coast Festival is an independently owned and artist-run event. They have a strong commitment to community support, as evidenced by:
* Donations to the Nicola Valley Food Bank: Bass Coast has an annual fundraising compilation called “12 Days,” where 100% of proceeds from album sales are donated to the Nicola Valley Food Bank in Merritt. They also top up the amount to reach a specific goal (e.g., $2500 CAD in one instance, and a $22,000 donation in another).
* Donations to environmental organizations: Bass Coast has also donated Bandcamp proceeds to organizations like West Coast Environmental Law.
* Economic Impact: The festival significantly contributes to Merritt’s economy, generating an estimated $4 million for the local area.
Essentially, while the exact financial “proceeds” in terms of profit aren’t publicly disclosed, the festival is known for its community-focused approach and its positive economic impact on the host town, Merritt.
Warm and low water levels make for rapid toxicity.
As of late June 2025, there are current advisories and responses in place for algae blooms on Nicola Lake, near Merritt, BC. Here is a summary of the situation and the responses from local authorities:
Algae Bloom Advisories and Status:
* Current Advisories: BC Parks and Interior Health are currently advising the public about potential blue-green algae blooms on Nicola Lake. Visitors are urged to use caution and avoid direct contact with any visible blooms.
* Water Activity Discouragement: Water activities like swimming are discouraged in areas where blooms are present.
* Previous Closures: It’s important to note that Nicola Lake has a history of toxic algae blooms, with advisories and beach closures occurring in previous years. For example, advisories and closures were in place in July 2023 due to the presence of cyanobacterial toxins. These advisories were lifted once water samples tested negative for toxins.
* Monitoring: The First Nations Health Authority and Interior Health continue to monitor Nicola Lake, as well as nearby lakes like Douglas Lake and Chapperon Lake, for algae blooms.
Responses and Recommendations:
* Avoid Contact: The primary recommendation from health authorities is to avoid any contact with the water if you see a bloom. This includes swimming, boating, and waterskiing.
* Rinse Off: If you do come into contact with the water, rinse your body with clean water immediately.
* Drinking Water: If you use Nicola Lake as a source of drinking water, you should use an alternate source, such as bottled water. Boiling the water will not remove the toxins.
* Pets and Livestock: Use an alternate drinking water source for pets and livestock as well.
* Symptoms: Exposure to cyanobacteria toxins can cause symptoms such as dizziness, cramps, diarrhea, skin rash, and mouth blisters. If you or your pet show these symptoms, contact a physician or veterinarian immediately.
* Citizen Science: The BC Algae Watch program encourages the public to report algae bloom sightings, which helps experts monitor and understand their occurrence.
* Continued Monitoring: Interior Health and BC Parks continue to monitor the situation and will update the public as required. They have a public beaches website where they post current advisories and closures.
* Foreshore Management: In a long-term effort to improve the health of Nicola Lake, the Upper Nicola Indian Band and Living Lakes Canada have been collaborating on foreshore management and monitoring projects, using both scientific data and Indigenous knowledge to guide their work.
What is an Algae Bloom?
Algae blooms are a natural phenomenon, but their frequency and severity can increase due to factors like excessive nutrient loading and warmer water temperatures. The blooms in Nicola Lake are often caused by cyanobacteria, also known as blue-green algae. While some algae are harmless, cyanobacteria can produce toxins that are harmful to people, pets, and livestock. These blooms can look like pea soup, have a paint-like appearance, or form thick scums on the water’s surface, and they can produce a strong, unpleasant odor.
Dog death, Nicola Lake
There are reports of at least one dog’s death and its exposure was not that long and its contraction of bacteria fairly rapid. This is the recent weekend, first of July.
Red tide and red algae
Red algae, also known as Rhodophyta, are a diverse group of mostly marine macroalgae (seaweeds) that get their characteristic red color from pigments called phycobiliproteins, particularly phycoerythrin. This pigment allows them to absorb blue light, which penetrates deeper into the ocean, enabling them to photosynthesize at greater depths than most other algae.
They play crucial roles in marine ecosystems, including contributing to reef formation. Some species, like Nori (Porphyra) and Dulse (Palmaria palmata), are consumed as food, while others are used to produce industrial products like agar and carrageenan due to their gelling and thickening properties.
Toxicity: Red Algae vs. Blue-Green Algae
When discussing toxicity, it’s important to distinguish between “red algae” as the broader group (Rhodophyta) and “red tide,” which is a specific type of harmful algal bloom (HAB) often caused by certain dinoflagellates. While some red algae can be consumed safely, “red tide” blooms are often associated with toxins.
Here’s a comparison of toxicity between “red tides” (often caused by dinoflagellates, sometimes referred to as red algae due to their color) and blue-green algae (cyanobacteria):
* Blue-green algae (Cyanobacteria): These are a common cause of harmful algal blooms in freshwater environments (lakes, rivers). They produce toxins called cyanotoxins, which can affect the liver (microcystins), nervous system (anatoxins), or skin. Exposure can lead to symptoms like skin irritation, gastrointestinal issues, and in severe cases, liver damage or neurological problems. Animals and humans can get sick by touching, swallowing, or inhaling contaminated water.
* Red Tides (Dinoflagellates and some Diatoms): These are the most common cause of harmful algal blooms in saltwater environments. While they can sometimes be caused by dinoflagellates that are red or brown, they are not typically from the larger group of red algae (Rhodophyta). The toxins produced vary by species but can include:
* Brevetoxins (from Karenia brevis): Cause neurotoxic shellfish poisoning, leading to gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, and respiratory irritation when airborne.
* Saxitoxins (from Alexandrium species): Cause paralytic shellfish poisoning, which can be severe and life-threatening, affecting the nervous system and leading to paralysis.
* Domoic acid (from Pseudo-nitzschia species, a diatom): Causes amnesic shellfish poisoning, which can lead to gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, including memory loss.
Which is “more toxic”?
It’s difficult to definitively say which is “more” toxic as the severity of illness depends on the specific toxin, the concentration of the bloom, and the level of exposure. Both blue-green algae and the organisms causing red tides can produce highly potent toxins that can cause severe illness or death in humans and animals.
Key takeaways:
* Red algae (Rhodophyta), as a general group, are diverse, and many species are harmless and even consumed as food.
* “Red tide” refers to harmful algal blooms in saltwater, often caused by dinoflagellates or diatoms, which can produce dangerous toxins. These are distinct from the broader category of red algae.
* Blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) are a major concern for harmful blooms in freshwater and can also produce potent toxins.
In any case where there’s suspected algal bloom, it’s crucial to avoid contact with the water and follow local advisories, as you cannot tell if a bloom is toxic just by looking at it.
Stay safe…
Geopolitics
Canadian independence from the US, need and globalization has the agenda from ecology preservation – Suzuki.
New PM talking pipelines
Dr. Suzuki is concerned that the well-being of Canada’s been hijacked or is being hijacked and that the current government along with it has backed away from unnecessary emphasis on the environment.
Extinction of creatures, two generations.
A human generation is generally considered to be about 20-30 years, with recent research suggesting an average of around 27-30 years. Therefore, “two human generations” would refer to a period of roughly 40-60 years.
It’s incredibly difficult to give an exact number of creatures that have gone extinct in such a recent timeframe due to several factors:
* Many species are undiscovered: Scientists estimate there are millions of species on Earth yet to be identified, especially in lesser-explored environments like deep oceans or rainforests. Many could go extinct before we even know they exist.
* Difficulty in confirming extinction: It can take many years, even decades, of no confirmed sightings before a species is officially declared extinct.
* Varying definitions of “creature” or “species”: This can include everything from insects and fungi to large mammals, and the data available often focuses on more well-known or charismatic species.
However, scientific consensus indicates that we are currently in the midst of a sixth mass extinction event, driven primarily by human activities. The current extinction rate is estimated to be 1,000 to 10,000 times higher than the natural background rate.
While precise numbers for the last 40-60 years are hard to pinpoint, some reports highlight the alarming trends:
* Some estimates suggest that dozens to hundreds of species go extinct every day, though this often includes unconfirmed or localized extinctions.
* The World Wildlife Fund’s Living Planet Index reported a 73% decline in the average size of global wildlife populations in just 50 years (between 1970 and 2020), which indicates widespread biodiversity loss even if not all species are officially declared extinct.
* A 2019 UN report stated that around 1 million animal and plant species are now threatened with extinction, many within decades. It also noted that at least 680 vertebrate species had been driven to extinction since the 16th century.
In summary, while a precise number is elusive, the scientific community overwhelmingly agrees that a significant and alarming number of creatures have gone extinct in the last two human generations, and the rate of extinction is accelerating due to human impact.
What answers remain?
Deer in yard summer 2025
Income sources
Farm gate pricing can be a crucial component for supporting a family in British Columbia or Canada, but it’s often not sufficient on its own. Here’s a breakdown of the factors involved:
Farm Gate Pricing and Family Income:
* Potential for Higher Returns: Selling directly to consumers (farm gate sales) generally allows farmers to capture a larger share of the retail price, as they cut out intermediaries like wholesalers and retailers. This can lead to better margins per unit of product.
* Challenges to Viability:
* Scale and Volume: To generate enough income to support a family, a farm needs to produce and sell a significant volume of products. This requires substantial labor, land, and capital investment.
* Market Access and Demand: While direct sales offer better prices, farmers need consistent customer demand. This often means being located near population centers, investing in marketing, and building customer relationships.
* Off-Farm Income: A significant number of small-scale family farms in Canada, including BC, rely on off-farm income to supplement their farm gate sales and cover living expenses. This indicates that farm income alone is often not enough.
* Rising Costs: Farmers face increasing input costs (feed, fertilizer, fuel, equipment), high land values (especially in BC), and fluctuating market prices, which can squeeze profit margins even with direct sales.
* Labor and Time Commitment: Operating a successful farm with direct sales requires a huge time commitment, including production, processing, marketing, and sales. This can be challenging to balance with family life and other employment.
* Government Regulations: In BC, there are specific “Farmgate” and “Farmgate Plus” licenses for meat producers, allowing certain slaughter volumes for direct sales. This shows an attempt to support direct marketing, but there are still volume limits and other regulations to navigate.
Economies of Scale and Small Farms/Cooperatives:
* Traditional Economies of Scale: Historically, “economies of scale” in agriculture have favored large farms that can produce massive quantities at lower per-unit costs due to specialized machinery, bulk purchasing, and efficient distribution networks. This often puts small farms at a disadvantage.
* How Small Farms Can Achieve “Economies of Scope” or “Network Economies”: While true “economies of scale” (simply growing bigger to reduce per-unit costs) might be harder for individual small farms, they can achieve similar benefits through different strategies:
* Diversification (Economies of Scope): Small farms often diversify their crops and products. This allows them to spread risk, utilize resources more efficiently, and cater to diverse market demands, effectively creating multiple revenue streams from a similar asset base.
* Direct Marketing: Selling directly to consumers at farmers’ markets, farm stands, CSAs (Community Supported Agriculture), or online platforms helps small farms capture more of the retail dollar, effectively increasing their “scale” of profitability per unit.
* Value-Added Products: Processing raw agricultural products into higher-value goods (e.g., making jams from fruit, baked goods from grains, or prepared meals) can significantly boost revenue.
* Cooperatives and Economies of Scale: This is where cooperatives truly shine for small family farms. Cooperatives allow individual farms to achieve many of the benefits of larger-scale operations by:
* Bulk Purchasing: Buying inputs like seeds, fertilizers, and equipment collectively at discounted rates.
* Shared Equipment: Investing in expensive machinery that individual farms couldn’t afford on their own.
* Collective Marketing and Distribution: Pooling products to access larger markets, negotiate better prices, and streamline logistics (e.g., shared transportation, centralized storage facilities).
* Processing and Value-Adding: Establishing shared processing facilities to create value-added products that individual farms might not have the capacity for.
* Risk Management: Sharing risks associated with crop failure or market fluctuations.
* Knowledge Sharing: Members can share expertise and best practices, leading to improved efficiency and productivity.
* Access to Financing: Cooperatives may have better access to loans and grants than individual small farms.
* Increased Bargaining Power: Cooperatives give small farmers a stronger voice in the marketplace and with suppliers.
In Conclusion:
While farm gate pricing offers potential for higher returns, it’s often not enough on its own to support a family in British Columbia or Canada given the high costs and challenges of farming. However, when combined with strategies that mimic economies of scale, particularly through cooperatives and diversified direct marketing, small family farms have a much better chance of achieving economic viability and supporting a family. Cooperatives, in particular, empower small farms to collectively leverage resources and market power, providing a pathway to sustainable livelihoods in agriculture.
The reason to love is, that’s what you are …
Progress: July 6th 2025, 10 percent. 100,000.00 of million dollar goal.
924. 20 Kilometers 14 percent complete, arrived Calgary June 29th, departed July fifth.
“Sach In Motion” is a cross-Canada ultra-marathon run for mental health awareness. It’s an incredible initiative led by Sachin Latti, a former Canadian Border Services Agency Officer who has personally struggled with mental health challenges.
Here’s a breakdown of what “Sach In Motion” entails:
* The Mission: To raise awareness and funds for mental health support, particularly for Veterans, First Responders, and Emergency Personnel, as well as youth and men.
* The Challenge: Sachin Latti is running approximately 60-100 kilometers a day, aiming to cover around 7,500 kilometers across Canada over an anticipated 75-80 days. He aims to raise $1 million for various Canadian mental health charities.
* Community Engagement: Unlike a typical speed record attempt, “Sach In Motion” focuses on connection. Sachin runs into communities, slowing down to meet people, share stories, and create space for conversations around mental health.
* Inspiration: Sachin’s journey is one of trauma, recovery, and transformation. He hopes to inspire others to address their own mental health and break down the stigmas surrounding it.
* Impact: The funds raised support organizations like the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation, Together We Can, Their Opportunity, Wounded Warriors Canada, and Jack.org.
If you’re interested in following his journey or supporting the cause, you can:
* Follow “Sach In Motion” on social media (e.g., @sach.in.motion on Instagram).
* Visit the official “Sach In Motion” website (sachinmotion.ca) for more information and donation opportunities.
* If he’s running through your community, you can show up to encourage him or even run alongside him for a portion of the journey.
This initiative truly embodies the spirit of using physical endurance to inspire mental resilience and create positive social change.
Kevin Griffiths
percypaschal
The Proprietor Review 