🐝 Everything you should know about bees

High Snowpack, But Where’s All the Water?

Runoff from Utah’s snowpack provides 95% of the state’s water supply. But despite a higher-than-average snowpack, we’re not seeing a higher-than-average runoff. That’s because extreme droughts between 2020-2022 dried out our soil, so the melted snow gets absorbed. The pace of snowmelt also impacts runoff efficiency. A quicker melt means more water makes it downstream; a slower, more sporadic melt means more time for the soil to dry out in between and more water gets absorbed. [KUER]

• Related: The problem with too much snow. [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧]

Save the Tortoises

According to an environmental study, a proposed highway in southern Utah could have some nasty consequences; like spreading noxious weeds, increasing the chance of wildfires, and endangering the Mojave desert tortoise. Local officials argue that the highway is essential for reducing traffic, but environmental groups are asking for alternative solutions. You can submit a public comment on the highway until June 24. [Salt Lake Tribune 🔒]

Monster Jam World Finals

The Monster Jam World Finals will be held for the first time at Salt Lake City’s Rice-Eccles Stadium in 2025. The event will take place over Fourth of July weekend and will feature monster trucks and drivers competing for championships in racing, freestyle, high jump, and two-wheel skills. It’s projected to bring in $100 million for Utah’s economy, paving the way for the 2034 Winter Olympics. [ABC 4]

• Related: Can Salt Lake really pull off another Olympics? [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧]

What’s the Buzz?

Honeybee populations are at an all-time high (more on that below), which is great news for us in the Beehive State. As bees help pollinate approximately 75% of the fruits, nuts, and vegetables grown in the U.S. Except we might have saved the wrong bee. It stings! But here’s how we can right our wrongs. [City Cast Salt Lake 🎧]

This “you are here” sign is inside the Salt Palace near the Visit Salt Lake office, which means they have two counting the one displayed outside their doors.

This week, where can you find this curated bookshelf? Hint: You’ll find this at a place where you get your morning cup of joe.

Is the Honeybee a Utah Villain?

National headlines proclaim we saved the bees. That’s great news for us in the Beehive State, but we might have saved the wrong one. Bee researcher Jesse Margolies joins host Ali Vallarta to mythbust which bees need saving and share ways Salt Lakers can support local pollinators.