Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

'Nellie' the Stuffed Swamp Rat Sells Congress on Wiping Out Nutria

Rep. Josh Harder brought a stuffed swamp rat nicknamed "Nellie" to the congressional floor Wednesday. And, the Turlock Democrat's show-and-tell presentation worked to perfection. The House, on a voice vote, passed Harder's legislation to make $12 million available each year until 2025 to battle an invasion of nutria. “Especially on...

Voracious Rodents in Central Valley Set Off Alarms

LOS BANOS — One of the most recent threats to California's environment has webbed feet, white whiskers, shaggy fur and orange buck teeth that could be mistaken for carrots. "Boy, they're an ugly-looking thing," said David Passadori, an almond and walnut grower. "And the way they multiply — jeez." The...

Valley Democrats Declare War on Invasive Swamp Rats

Rep. Josh Harder of Turlock put on waders and traipsed through the water in search of swamp rats recently. The goal: Publicizing a bill that he and three other California Democrats have introduced targeting nutria, an invasive species from South America creating havoc with irrigation canals and levees. What the...

Help continue the work that gets you the news that matters most.

Search