Air Quality: Vermont DEC issued an air quality alert for Bennington, Rutland, Windham and Windsor counties Thursday, with Canadian wildfire smoke pushing the Air Quality Index to “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.; officials warn older adults, kids, pregnant people, outdoor workers, and anyone with heart or lung conditions to limit time outside as haze and a smoky smell linger. Wildfire Smoke Across the Region: Multiple outlets report air quality alerts spreading across New England and beyond as smoke from hundreds of Canadian fires moves south, with maps showing where Vermont is most affected today. Clean Energy in Vermont: Essex Resort & Spa and sister properties partnered with SunCommon on four solar projects totaling about 750,000 kWh—aimed at cutting fossil fuel reliance and stabilizing electricity costs. Land & Water Conservation: Vermont’s FPR completed three voluntary land conservation deals adding nearly 400 acres to state forests, boosting public access plus clean water, flood resilience, and wildlife habitat. Community Climate Resilience: In the Sawkill Watershed Project, community “stream stewards” gathered creek data for art-mapped storytelling meant to strengthen local relationships with waterways. Composting Skills: UVM Extension opened registration for a six-week backyard composting course, including bear-country best practices and guidance for Vermont’s universal recycling law. Local Governance & Safety: Bennington Police Chief Paul Doucette clarified that “white boxes” on Northside Drive are traffic sensors—not Flock license-plate cameras—installed to help cycle lights faster when cars wait.