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Use changes after recreational marijuana legalization

After recreational marijuana legalization, past-year cannabis use disorder among 12-17 year-olds increased from 2.18% to 2.72%. Frequent marijuana use among 26+ year-olds also increased, from 2.13% to 2.62%, and those with cannabis disorder rose from 0.90% to 1.23%. No association found among 18-25 year-olds.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Psychiatry·DateNov 13, 2019

Another casualty of climate change? Recreational fishing

New research from North Carolina State University and Oregon State University predicts a decline in recreational fishing participation due to climate change, with temperature extremes having the greatest impact. The study forecasts a 2.6% decline by 2080 under stringent mitigation efforts, but warns of a 15% drop if no action is taken.

SourceNorth Carolina State University·JournalJournal of the Association of Environmental and Resource Economists·DateOct 7, 2019

Private boats in the Mediterranean have extremely high potential to spread alien species

A study by the University of Pavia found that Mediterranean private boats have a high potential to spread alien species through biofouling. Boats traveling to new marinas were likely to be transporting alien species, with visible biofouling in niche areas such as ladders and propellers being key predictors of high species richness.

SourceBritish Ecological Society·JournalJournal of Applied Ecology·DateSep 25, 2019

Marijuana legalization reduces opioid deaths

A new study published in Economic Inquiry reveals that marijuana access leads to significant reductions in opioid-related deaths. The research found a decrease of 20-35% in annual opioid mortality rates following recreational marijuana legalization in the US.

SourceWiley·JournalEconomic Inquiry·DateAug 7, 2019

Legalized recreational marijuana a substitute for alcohol, but not tobacco

A new study finds that recreational marijuana legalization leads to a 8% increase in online searches for tobacco products, while searches for alcohol drop by 11%. However, the study also reveals that teenagers lose interest in cannabis after its legalization, contradicting common concerns about increased teen usage.

Fishing for fun, not food: Study takes stock of recreational fishing impacts

A study suggests that policymakers must recognize the growing role of recreational fishing in affecting fish populations and aquatic ecosystems. The authors propose five suggestions for guiding reform, including integrating angling targets into management and improving monitoring to moderate impacts on fish stocks.

SourceYale School of the Environment·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 19, 2019

Resource-based communities: Not just all work and no play

Researchers found that traditional leisure options are well-regarded by residents, but additional investment in tertiary recreation is beneficial for greater municipal investment. Fort McMurray's response to community facilities suggests a need for adaptable approaches to providing recreation and leisure.

SourceUniversity of Alberta·JournalCanadian Geographies / Géographies canadiennes·DateNov 28, 2018

Limiting children's recreational screen time to less than 2 hours a day linked to better cognition

An observational study of over 4,500 US children aged 8-11 found that limiting recreational screen time to less than two hours a day is associated with improved cognition. Half of the children met only one guideline, while those who met all three (sleep, screen time, and physical activity) had better cognitive development.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Child & Adolescent Health·DateSep 26, 2018

Do bats adapt to gates at abandoned mines?

A new study found that most gates installed at abandoned mine entrances do not impede bat usage, with species adapting over time. Factors like elevation, portal area, and bat agility influenced bat behavior around gates.

SourceWiley·JournalJournal of Wildlife Management·DateJun 20, 2018

Protecting the wild: Baylor professor helps to minimize recreation disturbance to wildlife

A Baylor University professor and his team have developed a method to measure recreation disturbance across large landscapes, enabling better understanding of its impact on wildlife. The study aims to provide recreation managers with a tool to mitigate negative effects on wildlife while allowing for responsible recreation use.

SourceBaylor University·JournalFrontiers in Ecology and the Environment·DateNov 3, 2017

58 million Americans are exposed to loud, frequent noises, including firearms, at work and home

A recent study published in The Laryngoscope found that substantial noise exposures occur in occupational and recreational settings, with only a small percentage of those exposed wearing recommended hearing protection. Firearms use is a significant contributor to noise exposure, with only 58% of gun owners using hearing protection.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalThe Laryngoscope·DateMar 16, 2017

Predicting how bad the bends will be

Researchers created a new model to predict decompression sickness severity after deep-sea dives. The model estimates both the risk and severity of symptoms, allowing divers to better plan their ascents and prevent painful and potentially fatal results.

SourceDuke University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateMar 15, 2017

Lollipop or edible?

A new study conducted by RTI International found that many edible marijuana products lack clear labels, making it difficult for consumers to know what they are consuming. The study suggests improvements such as web-based education and graphics on labels can inform buyers and the public about safe consumption practices

SourceRTI International·JournalInternational Journal of Drug Policy·DateFeb 22, 2017

Strategies designed to reduce excessive body temperature during exercise are explored

Researchers have found that heat-dissipating compression clothing offers no temperature-controlling benefits during exercise in physically active young people. However, for older individuals, the use of these garments can increase body temperature and cardiovascular stress. The study suggests that athletes should avoid using heat-dissi...

SourceElhuyar Fundazioa·JournalJournal of Aging and Physical Activity·DateJan 23, 2017

Rural, low-income moms rely on nature activities for family health but don't always have access

Research shows that spending time in nature promotes health and well-being among rural, low-income mothers and their families. Despite living in areas with abundant natural spaces, these mothers often lack access to safe and accessible outdoor recreation resources due to financial constraints and geographical barriers.

New study suggests angler education can benefit sharks

A new study found that recreational anglers who received education on shark conservation were more supportive of management and conservation efforts. The researchers surveyed 158 anglers in South Florida, revealing that many catch-and-release anglers recognized the post-release mortality risks for sharks.