The latest North State and California news on our airwaves for Tuesday, Dec. 20.
6.4-magnitude earthquake strikes Humboldt County
A significant earthquake this morning off the coast of Humboldt County left residents there without power and damage to infrastructure. The United States Geological Survey says a 6.4-magnitude earthquake struck around 2:30 a.m. about 7 miles southwest of Ferndale. Residents throughout the North State reported feeling the temblor.
— Andre Byik, NSPR
State firefighters to wait years for shorter workweek
California’s state firefighters will have to wait another two years for the shorter work weeks they’d asked for to relieve job-related stress. That’s despite reporting that revealed widespread fatigue and trauma in departments across the state. The latest Cal Fire contract does include immediate pay raises. It doesn’t, however, give firefighters the 56-hour workweek they wanted, but a compromised 66-hour shift. Read the full story.
— Julie Cart, CalMatters
State Sen. Wiener introduces bill to decriminalize psychedelics
A state bill to decriminalize the possession and use of psychedelic drugs came back to the Legislature Monday after it failed last year. State Sen. Scott Wiener is reviving an effort to decriminalize the use and possession of psychedelics, such as magic mushrooms.
— Madi Bolaños (KQED), The California Report
Group makes progress protecting giant sequoia groves
Massive wildfires have threatened California’s giant sequoia population. In 2021, a group of tribes and government agencies came together to help keep them safe. Over the last year, the Giant Sequoia Lands Coalition has treated thousands of acres of forest land, focusing on areas around groves of giant sequoias. They’ve used methods like prescribed fire and forest thinning. Of the 80 giant sequoia groves the group is targeting, they’ve treated 36.
— CapRadio Staff
Stories from NPR partner stations are edited by NSPR Staff for digital presentation and credited as requested.
In case you missed it
- Chico State provost resigns amid revelations of professor’s prohibited affair, alleged threats — NSPR
- Community organizers call for more shelter beds for unhoused residents in Oroville — NSPR
- Organic dairy farms struggle to stay afloat amid rising costs — CapRadio
- How to survive a power outage guide: North State residents and officials share their advice — NSPR
- Chico State Academic Senate mulls resolution linked to professor’s sex case — NSPR
- Public health officials see uptick in flu activity — NSPR
- California air board outlines approach to climate action — CapRadio
- Butte County supervisors explore outdoor warning sirens for the foothills — NSPR
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