News Stories - Page 432

UGA Extension offices distribute radon test kits. CAES News
Radon invades homes, silently kills
Gail Dobbs has never smoked. But last spring her doctor diagnosed her with lung cancer. With help from University of Georgia Cooperative Extension, the Walton County resident tested her home for radon and found her cancer may be caused by the air in her home.
Mushrooms in Sarah Workman's hands. CAES News
Mushroom gardening new backyard craze
Sarah Workman loves mushrooms, so much so that she grows them on her property in Watkinsville, Ga. She uses the homegrown fungi in recipes, sells them at local farmers markets and pays her property taxes with the profits.
Blueberries sit in baskets at the UGA organic research farm. Photo taken July 23, 2008 in Watkinsville, Ga. CAES News
Gassy vegetables could naturally fuel the produce industry
University of Georgia researcher Gary Hawkins looks at rotting fruits and vegetables differently than most people. Where they may see useless balls of moldy fuzz, he sees fuel.
Photo of elderly lady bundled up for the winter. CAES News
Hypothermia risk higher for seniors
When temperatures dip into the teens, weather can be more than cold – it can be deadly. The threat of death from hypothermia is greatest for the elderly population.
Upright freezer with doors open CAES News
Powerless appliances lose helpfulness quickly
For many Georgians, the ritual preparations for freezing temperatures and possible snowfall include a trip to the grocery store to stock up on milk, bread and other basics. But University of Georgia experts say to keep in mind that frost, ice and snow often result in loss of power. Without power to keep appliances working, food stored in refrigerators and freezers can quickly begin to go bad.
Snow coats leaves in March 2009 in Athens, Ga. CAES News
Tender plants need winter protection
Don’t box up those old Christmas tree lights just yet. Along with old blankets, quilts and cardboard boxes, they could be the key to keeping tender plants from freezing this winter.
CAES News
Register now for 2010 landscape update, certification training
The University of Georgia College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences will hold the 2010 landscape updates and trainings January 15 and February 26 in Perry. The trainings will cover weed and insect control, soil compaction and thatch, small engine maintenance, cost management and pesticide recertification credits.
A bowl of AA batteries. CAES News
Use care when purchasing or disposing of batteries

During the holidays, we scour the stores for the newest gadgets and electronics to give as gifts. But, some people forget new animatronic animals and game system remotes need batteries to operate.

Sweet Vidalia onions in a basket at a roadside stand in Tattnall County, Ga. CAES News
UGA looks for better onion handling, storage and disposal
The Vidalia onion is Georgia’s official state vegetable and No. 1 fresh vegetable crop. Like any major crop, it has its fair share of problems – ones University of Georgia researchers want to fix.