SUMMARY: Pete Taggard revitalized his health and lost over 100 pounds by returning to skateboarding after a Type 2 Diabetes warning. Inspired, he co-founded the Picayune Skatepark Project to build Mississippi’s Gulf Coast’s first permanent public skatepark, approved recently in Picayune. Alongside him, the Gulf Coast Skatepark Association is transforming community spaces in Biloxi and beyond through DIY skateparks and events promoting safe, inclusive areas for youth. Skateparks serve as vital “third places” offering exercise, belonging, and emotional support, especially to underserved kids. Their efforts aim to build more facilities, acknowledging skateboarding’s physical and mental health benefits and fostering vibrant local communities.

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SUMMARY: Smoky the Bear’s message “only you can prevent forest fires” evolved as we learned that in the southeastern U.S., fire-adapted pine forests rely on frequent, low-intensity fires to stay healthy. These fires occur naturally every 3-5 years, burning dead grass and pine needles without harming roots or mature trees. Fires release nutrients into nutrient-poor soils, help pine seeds germinate, and control hardwood growth that would reduce plant diversity. Longleaf Pines uniquely survive fires with fire-resistant needles and thick bark. Human interference disrupted this cycle, causing catastrophic wildfires, so forest managers now use controlled prescribed burns to mimic natural fires safely.

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SUMMARY: In 2022, Limpkins—a rare, medium-sized wading bird native to Florida—were spotted across the eastern and central U.S., including Mississippi and southern Canada. Their range expansion is linked to the spread of invasive apple snails, which serve as a key food source. Limpkins feed on mollusks using their long, curved bills and nest in marshes. While their predation on invasive snails may help control that invasive species, concerns arise about potential impacts on endangered freshwater mussels and wetland ecosystems. Changes caused by Limpkins might facilitate further spread of snails and their parasites. Continued observation is crucial to understanding these ecological shifts.

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The post When the Limpkin Came to Mississippi: A Birding Mystery Unfolds appeared first on ourmshome.com