Editor’s Letter
Amanda Burden is founder, publisher, and editor of edible Reno-Tahoe magazine. A longtime journalist and passionate supporter of local food, she shares stories that celebrate the people, places, and flavors that shape Northern Nevada and the Sierra region.
Are you feeling the heat? Signs of climate change are all around us, from hotter, longer-lasting heat waves and rampant, deadly wildfires to drought. (For the first time in recorded history, dating back to 1893, Reno received zero precipitation in January, giving another meaning to โdry January.โ) The decrease in rainfall is particularly troubling to our local farmers and ranchers who need the vital substance to maintain crops and animals, and drought impacts us all.
Wildfires โ terrifying to those directly in their path and destructive to our forests and wildlife โ and smoky summers seem to be the new norm. I long for a summer in which I donโt have to check the Air Quality Index each day, reduce my outdoor activities, and breathe wildfire smoke.
While this news is depressing, Iโm heartened by the efforts of green-minded residents here. To tie in with Earth Day, in this issue we offer a plethora of stories on earth-conscious initiatives. They give me hope for the future.
First of all, donโt miss our important story on regenerative agriculture. Reno writer Barbara Twitchell explains how this practice actively improves and restores the soil to the natural balance that Mother Nature intended. Youโll meet three local farmers/ranchers who utilize the methods and have experienced amazing, measurable results. They should be examples for all farmers and ranchers.
Next, read about how local restaurants are going green, including buying from local farmers to cut their carbon footprints, recycling, and designing (or redesigning) with the earth in mind (including adding energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and more). Learn how to green your own kitchen by reducing food and packaging waste. Check out great composting tips from the folks at Keep Truckee Meadows Beautiful. Another way you can help the environment is by planting your own food. To get started, see our story on spring seedlings and seedling sales.
What will you do to help the earth today?
More From This Issue
Bon Vivant of the Comstock
The name Lucius (aka Luscious) Beebe may not ring a bell unless youโre a railroad buff. But if culinary and…Seedling Satisfaction
One major lesson weโve learned from the pandemic is food systems are fragile. A single misstep in the climate, growing…Blended Benefits
A pinch of this. A sprig of that. Add some tea leaves. Voilร ! Home brewers are catching the trend of…
