Environment

When it comes to water in Texas, unless you’re a farmer, most people in the state don’t care.

A public opinion poll conducted by faculty members at the University of Texas in association with the Texas Tribune found that the economy, immigration and education are top of mind for most, yet water registers as a top issue with only 4 percent.

For Huyen Hoang and his identical twin brother -- who also has the same name -- the plight of the Asian rhinoceros was all but unknown, until one day a news report featured images of a Javan rhino poached for it’s horn.

Like many of us, the Portland State University undergraduate was unaware of the increasing black market for rhinoceros horn, and the keratin inside it. The price has jumped so high it at times rivals gold; by some estimates reaching $65,000 a kilogram.

CPS Energy is looking for new applicants to its Casa Verde energy-efficiency program, a weatherization program designed to help families in need reduce their monthly utility bills.

CPS Energy provided no-cost home improvements to 800 CPS Energy customers last year.

CPS Spokesman Albert Cantu says the program offers free energy recommendations for the customer’s individual needs and home, and even sends workers to replace or upgrade items on the list: