I find it difficult to ignore the issue of climate change. I believe the scientist who claim the climate of the earth hospitable to humans is on a downward trajectory and we are approaching a point at which without some miraculous new technology the future becomes very bleak.
If you are of such a mind, it is easy to see signs around you. Some regard events such as a cold winter, mighty storms bringing torrential rains as contrary indicators. However, the examples they bring forward are misinterpreted. Everything is not about warming, but rather intensity displayed in extremes that are coming with increasing frequency. We had a record snowfall in Minnesota this winter. Sure, snow melts into water, but the amount does not offset the dry and even drought-level summers we are experiencing. It is the frequency of such records that is concerning. The number of records exceeds what one would expect statistically by a substantial margin.
We are presently in a very dry period. The same thing happened last summer. I gave up on my lawn last summer and focused the watering on my garden. This summer has already been very similar, but starting earlier. Record temps and a dry May and June. I still water the grass trying to salvage an investment in a new seeing required because of grub damage last year.
I noticed today walking through the park just how dry everything that is not irrigated has become. Sobering signs I cannot ignore.
