The increase in tree "fluff" is likely a stress response from poplars, aspen and willows reacting to the dry conditions from the past few years, according to the N.W.T.'s department of Environment and Climate Change.

Over the past five days, Mongolia’s National Emergency Management Agency reports that 12 of 22 recorded forest and steppe wildfires across multiple aimags have been fully extinguished, with four fires still active.

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game has closed the Ninilchik River to all sport fishing from June 23 through July 15 to help meet king salmon escapement and broodstock collection goals.

Anchorage is experiencing the highest tree pollen counts in nearly a decade, with counts reaching thousands of grains per cubic meter from birch, poplar, cottonwood, aspen, willow, and alder, triggering widespread allergy symptoms.

The red-headed woodpecker has been observed for the past week.

A bloom of non-toxic Noctiluca algae is lining Saanich Inlet’s shoreline; safe for swimmers and shellfish consumption so far. Scientists say the bloom is not producing toxins yet, but could as the water gets warmer. “This one is a bit early!” said Galbraith.