Monarch butterflies face mounting threats from habitat loss, advocates say

Summer brings new challenges, from trail running to climbing Mount Shasta

Snow-covered Mount Shasta rises above pine trees and rocky terrain as seen from the Bunny Flat trailhead in Northern California. [https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/57edd9d/2147483647/strip/false/crop/3840x2743+0+0/resize/739x528!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F42%2F82%2Fbc2483374c479f96f7c177f81bc0%2Fmount-shasta-as-seen-from-bunny-flat-1.jpg]Mount Shasta rises above Bunny Flat, a popular trailhead and staging area for climbers attempting to reach the 14,179-foot summit.(Frank Schulenburg / Wikimedia Commons) As summer arrives in Southern Oregon and Northern California, runners are hitting the trails while climbers prepare for Mount Shasta's busy season. Local outdoor enthusiasts say both activities offer physical challenges, personal rewards and opportunities to connect with the region's mountains. RUNNING FOR MORE THAN COMPETITION A number of trail-running events are scheduled across the region this summer, ranging from family-friendly fun runs to some of the West Coast's most demanding trail races. One of the most popular events is the Mount Ashland Hill Climb, a 13.5-mile race that gains roughly 5,600 feet in elevation. Other events include the Headwaters Trail Run near Mount Shasta and the new Lemurian Ascent Trail Run at Mount Shasta Ski Park. But longtime runner Nicole Larsen said the appeal of running extends beyond competition. "Running for me has really turned into more of a meditative practice and time alone in the mountains," Larsen said. Larsen said her priorities have shifted over time. In her 20s, she focused on speed and training. Later, she concentrated on improving performance. Today, she runs primarily for enjoyment and time outdoors. Jennifer Bray said running provides an opportunity to clear her mind and work through life's challenges. "I like the time to myself," Bray said. "I work through things in my head." She said endurance running often becomes as much a mental exercise as a physical one. "You can do one step farther," she said. The runners emphasized that trail running does not require expensive equipment. A good pair of shoes, gradual training and proper planning can help newcomers get started. They also encouraged runners to research routes ahead of time, carry water when appropriate and let someone know where they are going before heading into remote areas. For those looking for community, local organizations such as the Rogue Valley Runners and Siskiyou Mountain Runners host group runs and volunteer at regional races. A small dirt trail amongst a variety of different types of trees. Some mountains are visible in the distant, covered in trees. [https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/978bfd7/2147483647/strip/false/crop/2048x1365+0+0/resize/792x528!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F83%2F39%2Ffc5b6d5340f39bd7afa39d82ac81%2F50857654287-b272d090f2-k.jpg] The view of the Applegate Valley from the Sterling Mine Ditch Trail, January 17, 2021(Kyle Sullivan / Medford BLM ) THE LONG CLIMB TO THE SUMMIT For some athletes, trail running serves as a gateway to mountaineering. Chris Carr, owner of Shasta Mountain Guides [https://shastaguides.com/about], said running is one of the best ways to build the endurance needed for mountain climbing. "Running is a great training tool for the activity of climbing mountains," Carr said. But he cautioned that mountaineering requires a different level of preparation. Climbers on Mount Shasta travel across snowfields, loose rock and steep terrain using specialized equipment such as crampons and ice axes. "There are no trails to the summit of Mount Shasta," Carr said. The mountain rises to 14,179 feet and dominates the surrounding landscape. Carr said many first-time climbers underestimate both its size and the challenges posed by elevation, weather and route-finding. Summit attempts [https://shastaguides.com/articles/whenisthebesttimetoclimbmtshasta] often begin around 1 or 2 a.m. and can involve 12 to 14 hours of travel. Carr said most climbers should spend several months training before attempting the peak. Those without an established fitness base may need even longer. The risks of mountaineering became clear during Carr's first attempt to climb Mount Shasta more than 30 years ago. He chose to climb in November, when little snow covered the mountain and rockfall was common. During the ascent, a falling rock passed so close to Carr that it brushed his ponytail. Today, he points to that experience as an example of why preparation and timing matter. Among the region's best-known climbing events is Climb Against the Odds, a fundraiser supporting breast cancer prevention. Participants spend months preparing before joining a guided, multi-day climb of Mount Shasta. Bray, who has participated several times, said the experience creates strong bonds among climbers and often becomes deeply emotional. "We started calling it 'Cry Against the Odds' because it's so emotional," she said. For Carr, one of the most important lessons in mountaineering is knowing when not to continue. Weather, snow conditions and other hazards can force climbers to turn around before reaching the summit. "The mountain's not going anywhere," he said. EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES Trail running * June 6: Ashland Turtle Trot [https://runsignup.com/Race/OR/Ashland/TurtleTrot] (family-friendly; welcomes children and strollers) * June 7: Mount Ashland Hill Climb [https://www.ashlanduphillraces.com/] (13.5 miles and roughly 5,600 feet of elevation gain; registration may be full) * June 13: Redding Health Expo 5K Run/Walk [https://www.reddinghealthexpo.com/next-expo/] (family-friendly event on the Sacramento River Trail) * June 20: Headwaters Trail Run [https://www.headwaterstrailruns.net/] (10K, 34K and 52K options; considered one of the West Coast's most rugged trail races) * June 27: Lemurian Ascent Trail Run [https://www.skipark.com/ski-park-events/lemurian-ascent-trail-run] (at Mount Shasta Ski and good for both first-time and experienced runners) * July 4: Mt. Shasta Fourth of July Fun Run [https://mountainrunners.org/] (registration deadline June 10) * July 10-12: Siskiyou Outback Run Festival [https://siskiyououtback.com/] (multiple races, live music and food) Mountaineering * June 11: History of Mountaineering [https://www.mtshastamuseum.com/] (presentation by Chris Carr at the Mount Shasta Museum) * June 15-19: Climb Against the Odds [https://www.bcpp.org/get-involved/events/climb/] (a multi-day Mount Shasta fundraiser benefiting breast cancer prevention) Running clubs * Southern Oregon Runners Club [https://www.sorunners.org/] * Rogue Valley Runners Club [https://ultrasignup.com/groups.aspx?gid=317] * Mountain Runners Club [https://mountainrunners.org/about-us] GUESTS * Nicole Larsen, outdoor guide * Jennifer Bray, outdoor guide * Chris Carr, owner, Shasta Mountain Guides [https://shastaguides.com/]

Why Dunsmuir, California, claims to have the best water on earth

Dunsmuir is a historic town of approximately 2,800 residents in northern California. It features a dozen waterfalls through its canyons along the Sacramento River. It also boasts an active Amtrak rail station and a local airport for firefighting support and prevention. [https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/fe3d3f0/2147483647/strip/false/crop/1341x892+0+0/resize/792x527!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F2b%2Fec%2Fe77d3d874220994c5bb0fa61a847%2Fdunsmuir-waterfalls.png]Dunsmuir is a historic town of approximately 2,800 residents in northern California. It features a dozen waterfalls through its canyons along the Sacramento River. It also boasts an active Amtrak rail station and a local airport for firefighting support and prevention. (https://www.ci.dunsmuir.ca.us/explore.) A small city along the upper Sacramento River is leaning into its natural assets — from spring-fed drinking water to fly fishing — as it works to balance tourism with long-term sustainability. Dunsmuir, in northern California’s Siskiyou County, has about 2,800 residents and sits along Interstate 5 and the Union Pacific Railroad. Situated in a canyon, it draws visitors for its scenery and access to outdoor recreation. Dunsmuir boasts the "best water on earth," sourced from underground volcanic flows. "Our water comes from a volcanic tube that never sees the light of day until you turn the tap water on," Mayor Juliana Luchessi said. The untreated water is bottled at a city-owned, plastic-free facility. Water also shapes the local landscape, including nearby landmarks such as Hedge Creek Falls and Mossbrae Falls. Juliana Luchessi serves as the assistant city manager of Yreka, CA and also mayor of Dunsmuir, CA ... a neighboring town. [https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/0b2740c/2147483647/strip/false/crop/557x561+0+0/resize/524x528!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fd5%2F85%2F84ffe6ae45f988a4323fc6bf52ab%2Fjuliana-luchessi-yreka-dunsmuir.png]Juliana Luchessi serves as the assistant city manager of Yreka, CA and also mayor of Dunsmuir, CA ... a neighboring town. (Juliana Lechessi ) Tourism drives much of the local economy, particularly fly fishing and river-based recreation. Luchessi said the city caters to visitors looking for a slower pace, where people can “settle, enjoy the cool air and the water.” Despite its size, Dunsmuir functions as a regional transportation hub, with an active Amtrak station and a small airport used mainly for emergency services and wildfire response. The city is currently working on a safe, legal trail to Mossbrae Falls by 2030. Visitors currently reach the falls by walking along active railroad tracks, which is both dangerous and illegal. The city has also invested in wildfire preparedness, including a dedicated resilience planner and green waste programs. Luchessi said she wants Dunsmuir to remain a place where families can put down roots. "What I want for the city is to flourish and be a place where people can raise their families who can enjoy the natural beauty of the outdoors while being really close to community," she said. Local events, including Second Saturday art walks [https://www.dunsmuirsecondsaturday.com/]and the River and Rails Brewfest [https://www.riverandrailsbrewfest.com/], help reinforce that sense of community. * Juliana Luchessi, Mayor, Dunsmuir, CA

Northwest news: Snowy plovers, queer wrestling and a mammoth dig

Princesa Payaso taps out while Certified Public Asskcicker, top, has them in a hold as Clemente Danger officiates at House of Danger, a queer variety show that includes wrestling, comedy, karaoke, and magic, on April 29, 2026 at the Swan Dive in Portland, Ore. [https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/a0fa882/2147483647/strip/false/crop/963x681+0+0/resize/747x528!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2Fb5%2F5f%2F8b9a02634f72bede11187cde9d47%2Fportland-queer-wrestling.png]Princesa Payaso taps out while Certified Public Asskcicker, top, has them in a hold as Clemente Danger officiates at House of Danger, a queer variety show that includes wrestling, comedy, karaoke, and magic, on April 29, 2026 at the Swan Dive in Portland, Ore. (Eli Imadali / https://www.opb.org/article/2026/05/23/southeast-portland-queer-wrestlers-performers/ ) Oregon’s seasonal partial beach closures help rejuvenate the once-threatened snowy plover [https://www.klcc.org/environment/2026-05-26/oregons-seasonal-partial-beach-closures-help-rejuvenate-the-once-threatened-snowy-plover] Restrictions on some Oregon beaches are helping a once-threatened shorebird make a comeback. Western snowy plovers nest in dry sand along the coast, where human activity can disturb nests and chicks. Since the species was listed as threatened in 1993, the breeding population in Oregon has grown from 45 adults to 546, aided by seasonal beach closures and habitat restoration efforts. Queer wrestlers and performers build community one body slam at a time [https://www.opb.org/article/2026/05/23/southeast-portland-queer-wrestlers-performers/] House of Danger is a monthly queer wrestling variety show in Portland. Created by local performers who wanted more opportunities to practice wrestling, the event has become a space for queer and trans wrestlers to develop characters and perform storylines. Beyond the body slams, the show fosters deep community ties, even hosting real-life milestones like a recent in-ring marriage proposal. Work on a mammoth dig site is underway [https://www.nwpb.org/local/2026-05-20/on-the-outskirts-of-the-tri-cities-work-on-a-mammoth-dig-site-is-underway] Near Kennewick, Washington, scientists and volunteers are continuing a yearslong excavation of a Columbian mammoth that died about 17,500 years ago. The Coyote Canyon dig site has become both a research project and an educational destination, where students help uncover clues about Ice Age floods, ancient ecosystems and the environment that surrounded the mammoth's remains.

After 28 seasons at OSF, Scott Kaiser completed Shakespeare's canon

Scott Kaiser leads a theatre class at Southern Oregon University. He recently released his latest book, a memoir titled, "Conquering The Canon: A Life In Shakespeare." [https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/d37e013/2147483647/strip/false/crop/1482x770+0+0/resize/792x411!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F46%2Fb4%2F99a2e5bf4226a279afbf76190e22%2Fscott-kaiser-osf-actor-and-author.jpg]Scott Kaiser leads a theatre class at Southern Oregon University. He recently released his latest book, a memoir titled, "Conquering The Canon: A Life In Shakespeare."(https://news.sou.edu/) Scott Kaiser's interest in Shakespeare began when he was cast in "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at age 15. "It was a great way to meet high school girls," Kaiser said. More than four decades later, Kaiser has performed, coached or directed every play in Shakespeare's canon during 28 seasons at the Oregon Shakespeare Festival. In his new book, "Conquering the Canon: A Life in Shakespeare [https://www.kaisershakespeare.com/upcoming]," Kaiser reflects on that experience and offers a behind-the-scenes look at bringing Shakespeare's works to the stage. Rather than literary criticism, Kaiser describes the practical challenges of rehearsing, performing and teaching Shakespeare. He also weighs in on debates over which plays belong in the canon. Kaiser defines Shakespeare's canon as 38 plays and rejects efforts to expand the list. "That's the number I've stuck with, and I'll probably go to my grave with that number," Kaiser said. Kaiser remains a defender of Shakespeare's language and rhetoric. He argues that modern productions often cut up to 30% of the text from plays such as "Love's Labour's Lost" to accommodate shorter attention spans. "Modern audiences do not have the listening ability that they even had 25 years ago," Kaiser said. Kaiser said he built his career in Ashland because the Oregon Shakespeare Festival's repertory company provided an environment where actors could learn from one another over many years. He compared the camaraderie of a repertory ensemble to the Marines, saying performers support one another onstage and off. Looking ahead, Kaiser sees opportunities to use technology to help audiences engage with Shakespeare's language. One possibility, he said, is using screens to provide real-time definitions of obscure Shakespearean words, including "honorificabilitudinitatibus," one of the longest words Shakespeare used. "I think ultimately Shakespeare is probably going to go that way," Kaiser said. GUEST * Scott Kaiser, author, Conquering The Canon: A Life In Shakespeare [https://www.kaisershakespeare.com/upcoming]

Why a Southern Oregon vineyard had to add a disclaimer to its orange wine

Two young girls sit in a lavender field at Dos Mariposas Vineyards and Lavender Farm in Southern Oregon. One girl holds a sprig of lavender while rows of purple flowers surround them. [https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/fc3b34b/2147483647/strip/false/crop/2560x1920+0+0/resize/704x528!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F21%2F2e%2Fafc6728144adb806c7407ce15133%2Fgirls-in-the-lavender-2019-original-scaled.jpg]Amelia and Adeline, the daughters of owners Mark and Terri Rennick-Deering, sit among lavender plants at Dos Mariposas Vineyards and Lavender Farm. "Dos Mariposas" means "two butterflies," a reference to the sisters. ( Dos Mariposas) A Southern Oregon vineyard known for its lavender fields is introducing two orange wines this summer, including a sparkling version that required an unusual federal disclaimer after regulators worried consumers might mistake it for wine made from oranges. Dos Mariposas Vineyards and Lavender Farm [https://dosmariposasvineyards.com/], located in the Rogue Valley, is releasing a still, skin-fermented sauvignon blanc and a sparkling wine called Mariposa Naranja. Unlike traditional white wines, orange wines are made by fermenting white grapes with their skins, giving them a deeper color and more tannic flavor. For owner Terri Rennick-Deering and her family, the venture began with a leap of faith. They moved from the Twin Cities and purchased the property sight unseen, hoping to find a warmer climate and a place where multiple generations of the family could live together. "We decided starting a vineyard with no experience whatsoever at owning or running a small business or doing any farming would be a great idea," Rennick-Deering said. The idea has proven successful, she said. The sparkling wine's label became an unexpected hurdle. Federal regulators worried consumers could confuse the grape wine with a fruit wine made from oranges. "We finally came upon a solution," Rennick-Deering said, referring to the lengthy disclaimer now required on the label. After extensive discussions, the vineyard and regulators settled on a label that includes a lengthy disclaimer explaining the wine is made from grapes, not oranges. Rennick-Deering said the wine has a bright earthiness and more acidity and tannins than a typical white wine. The vineyard is also known for its lavender fields, which thrive in a climate Rennick-Deering compares to Southern France. Rennick-Deering said lavender has a wide range of uses, including culinary and wellness applications, and pairs well with wine. That combination comes together in the vineyard's Mimosa-posa, made with sparkling wine and lavender lemonade. Visitors can experience the vineyard during Lavender Festival weekends in June and July. The event includes U-pick lavender bundles, live music and demonstrations of lavender oil distillation. Rennick-Deering said there is something especially relaxing about sipping wine while listening to bees buzz across a field of purple blooms. GUEST * Terri Rennick-Deering, owner, Dos Mariposas Vineyards and Lavender Farm [https://dosmariposasvineyards.com/] Rows of grapevines grow in front of the tasting room at Dos Mariposas Vineyards and Lavender Farm. Large trees and low hills rise behind the vineyard under a clear blue sky. [https://npr.brightspotcdn.com/dims4/default/cb4b218/2147483647/strip/false/crop/4096x2304+0+0/resize/792x446!/quality/90/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnpr-brightspot.s3.amazonaws.com%2F4d%2F5f%2F7fdc28074c4f8c21995c3ba176c5%2F1000005715.jpg]Rows of grapevines stretch across Dos Mariposas Vineyards and Lavender Farm in the Rogue Valley. The family-owned vineyard recently released two orange wines, including a sparkling wine called Mariposa Naranja.(Natalie Golay / JPR)