: News

Dry Spell Hampers Region

Play associated audio
Horticulturist Barbara Bullock says the D.C. area is in need of some big rain falls.
http://www.flickr.com/miajudkins
Horticulturist Barbara Bullock says the D.C. area is in need of some big rain falls.

By Matt Laslo

With the rain gently falling there's a ting of optimism in the air at the National Arboretum, but horticulturists here say don't let the rain fool you. Some leaves are already falling early and some branches on bushes and trees have died because it's been so dry. Horticulturist Barbara Bullock says the area is in need of some big rain falls.

"This month in September we have not even had a full inch - we've only had just .66 - six tenths of an inch all month. And the rainfall we are receiving today is not even measurable. It's not even reaching our collector," Bullock said.

Experts say the region could get fall early and possibly with less vibrant colors than usual. Farmers have taken the brunt of the dry spell, with farm experts saying yields in the region are at an eight year low.

NPR

Where's Jimmy Hoffa? Everywhere And Nowhere

FBI agents believe they have a credible lead on the whereabouts of Jimmy Hoffa's body. If they're right, it will solve a longstanding mystery, which will also deflate Hoffa's resonance in popular culture.
NPR

The Mystery Of the Ridiculously Pricey Bag Of Potatoes

Did a 10-pound bag of potatoes really cost $15 back in 2008? We get to the bottom of some puzzling numbers in the lawsuit alleging America's potato growers have become a spud cartel.
NPR

House Passes Bill That Would Ban Abortions After 20 Weeks

The legislation is one of the most far-reaching abortion bills in decades and follows the May murder convictions of Philadelphia abortion doctor Kermit Gosnell. The bill, which would ban nearly all abortions starting 20 weeks after fertilization, is unlikely to ever become law.
NPR

Amazon Cuts Ties In Minnesota Ahead Of New Sales Tax

Amazon ends the contracts of people and businesses that are paid for sending customers to the retailer. The company has taken similar steps in other states that have passed laws like Minnesota's new sales tax legislation.

Leave a Comment

Help keep the conversation civil. Please refer to our Terms of Use and Code of Conduct before posting your comments.