After an earthquake struck Canada in 1946, hundreds of wooden stakes were unearthed from the mud, baffling people for years. However, archaeological research has recently found out their purpose; they were evidence of a large-scale sustainable fishing operation. The stakes formed a fish trap that would corral salmon in during high tide, and wooden panels kept them from swimming out. Once the people had their fill of fish, they would free the rest by removing the panels. Read full article here
Societal Issues
To curb drug deaths, communities turn to Reddit, texts and wastewater
With drug overdose deaths on the rise, authorities are attempting to curb the epidemic by tracking and sharing information in real time. In one unique effort, a nonprofit in New York City is using drug-testing equipment and stamping or marking habits of dealers to identify drug batches that may endanger users. Other approaches are also being used, such as monitoring drug-related chatter on Reddit and analyzing local wastewater for opioid and other drug levels. With the combination of these efforts, researchers hope to put a dent in the opioid crisis and reduce overdose deaths. Read full article here
Merv
June 1, 2023
