Scientists are working to save the "living fossil" Wollemi pine, a species thought to have disappeared 2 million years ago, by planting them in secret locations in Australia's Wollemi National Park. Threatened by a pathogenic water mold and wildfires, the trees are being reintroduced to the wild, with over 500 saplings planted in 2021. However, challenges such as drought, bushfires, and reduced rainfall due to climate change pose significant obstacles to the species' long-term survival, making the restoration effort a multi-generational endeavor.
Scientists are planting "living fossil" Wollemi pines in secret locations to save the species from extinction, with only around 60 remaining in Wollemi National Park due to threats from a pathogenic water mold and wildfires. The slow-growing trees, which were rediscovered in 1994, are being reintroduced to their natural habitat, but face challenges such as drought, bushfires, and climate change. The effort is multi-generational, as it will take decades, if not centuries, for the translocated populations to become self-sustaining and produce second-generation seedlings.
A powerful coastal storm has left nearly 600,000 customers without power across New England, with Maine being the most affected state. Power companies are warning that it could take several days to restore electricity as crews work to repair the damage caused by high winds and heavy rain. The storm has also caused power outages in Canada, affecting nearly 175,000 homes. The severe weather conditions have led to school closures, disrupted healthcare services, and transportation delays in the affected areas.
Central Maine Power is reporting that about 350,000 customers are without power following a powerful storm on Monday, which is more than half of their customer base. The high winds and tree damage are causing delays in the repair efforts, as many large trees need to be removed before line crews can restore power. CMP has brought in additional line and tree crews to assist with the restoration, but it is expected to be a multi-day effort. Some residents are hopeful to have power restored before Christmas.
FirstEnergy spokeswoman Lauren Siburkis estimated 115,000 people without power as of 9pm Saturday due to severe storms and strong winds. Restoration efforts are expected to take days as crews prioritize clearing downed wires and poles before restoring service. Safety concerns have prevented crews from using bucket trucks to restore power.
