The proposed construction of six new coal-fired power plants in Montana has citizens rightly concerned about the human and ecological risks posed by the mercury emissions of these new plants. Like all environmental issues, this one is scientifically complex and highly emotional. And unfortunately, there are no perfect solutions. Much of the problem is beyond […]

The 21st Century will be the century of biology. Breakthroughs in rDNA technologies allow the precise manipulation of genetic material. This holds great promise for human and ecological well-being. Applying these molecular tools builds on the oldest and most widespread of human inventions — traditional selective breeding. It is through this method that we created […]

Three decades ago, it was rare to get three summer cuttings of hay at our ranch — now this is the norm. Global warming is a plausible explanation. Barbra Streisand, Al Gore, and many scientists have proclaimed consensus: global warming is occurring, we are causing it, and the consequences are significant. But the question remains: […]

Gallatin Gateway, MT, July 3rd. Late last night Ramona and I returned from academic conferences in Europe. I had lectured on land resources at the University Cezanne in Aix en Provence, France. Folks from eleven nations attended and I identified myself as a Montanan and Ramona as an MSU professor emeritus. I was asked about […]