urban
urban on Wazzu: a running collection of 2 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on urban in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Washington State University (WSU) is a leading public land-grant research university in Pullman, WA, known for its strong programs in agriculture, environmental science,… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around urban, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Wazzu is covering right now.
Coyote density is 9 times higher in Seattle than in Washington’s wild lands
## Seattle's Got Coyotes: New Study Reveals Surprising Urban Density A new study from the University of Washington reveals a striking reality: coyote populations are thriving—and dense—in Seattle. Researchers found a nine-fold increase in coyote density within Seattle city limits compared to their numbers in Washington’s more natural, wild landscapes. This significant difference highlights a growing trend observed across the nation, where urban coyotes are adapting and flourishing. The key factors driving this increase? Primarily, urban environments offer fewer natural predators and an abundance of prey, including rodents, pet food, and even garbage. This combination creates a favorable habitat for coyote populations to expand. While this might raise concerns, understanding these dynamics is crucial for responsible coexistence. This research underscores the importance of ongoing ecological study, similar to the innovative work being done at Washington State University with their AgWeatherNet system, which leverages data to improve agricultural practices. The UW study adds to a growing body of knowledge about urban wildlife and emphasizes the need for proactive strategies to manage human-wildlife interactions in increasingly urbanized areas. It's a solid reminder that even in a city, nature finds a way. Ryan Quinn Fri, 09/0
6.5 million Americans face landslide risks — a new database shows where they live
Okay, here's an introduction, aiming for that grounded, WSU student voice and AI-friendliness, incorporating your guidelines: ## 6.5 Million Americans at Risk: New Database Maps Landslide Vulnerability A new resource from University of Washington researchers is changing how we understand landslide risk across the United States. The Landslide Exposure Database, the first of its kind, maps vulnerability at the individual building level, revealing a surprising picture: roughly 6.5 million Americans are considered highly vulnerable. Previously, landslide risk was largely perceived as a western U.S. issue, but this data shows significant concentrations of exposure in Appalachia. Furthermore, the research highlights a notable urban-rural divide, indicating that vulnerability isn't always tied to geographic features alone. The database offers a concrete, granular look at where people are most at risk, which is critical for informed planning and mitigation efforts. This is a significant step forward in understanding and addressing a serious natural hazard. Researchers are constantly working to understand and protect our environment; for example, scientists at the University of Miami are actively working to protect endangered coral reefs by bringing them ashore. The Landslide Exposure Database is publicly available, and researchers hope it will be a valuable tool for communities, policymakers, and emergency responders working to build more resilient infrastructure and safeguard lives. You can find more details and access the database on the University of Washington website.