Tuesday

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

• Beavers are good neighbors—Here’s why

• Sunset of the day in Arizona

• The benefits of home warranties

• A low-waste candle you can make today

• How to learn AI in 5 minutes a day

True or False?

Chocolate production can contribute to deforestation.

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

Beavers Are Good Neighbors—Here’s Why

Beavers are making a comeback in Wisconsin, and some landowners are learning that letting them stay, rather than chasing them off, has real upsides. While their dams can flood driveways or backyards, new tools are making it easier for people and beavers to peacefully share space.

In many places, folks are using simple water-control devices that prevent beaver ponds from getting too high. These low-maintenance systems keep dams intact while protecting homes and property from flooding. It's a smarter solution than trapping, which often just invites another beaver to move in.

And here’s the bigger picture: those ponds aren’t just for beavers. They slow floodwaters, store carbon, filter pollution, and create vital habitat for birds, frogs, and fish. Some reports say these wetlands can even cut peak flood levels by 60%. In a changing climate, that’s a big deal.

More people are starting to see beavers not as a nuisance, but as helpers. With the right setup, it turns out there's room for all of us.

Sunset of the Day in Arizona

This sunset came to us from The Canopy reader Diane, who shared a view of the desert sunset in southern Arizona.

This sunset is a reminder that beauty doesn’t have to be dramatic; sometimes it’s just a pause at the end of the day.

Thanks for sharing this lovely glimpse of Arizona, Diane! Have a sunset that gave you a reason to slow down? Send it our way—we love seeing the world through your lens.

Don’t Let a Broken Heater Break the Bank

Home repair costs have surged in recent years due to inflation and supply chain issues, making unexpected breakdowns a financial burden for homeowners. Fortunately, a home warranty could help cover the repair and replacement of your home appliances and systems for a reasonable monthly fee. Check out Money’s list of the Best Home Warranties and start protecting your essential appliances.

View List

Thank you to Money for sponsoring The Canopy.

A Low-Waste Candle You Can Make Today

If you’ve ever finished a candle and felt bad tossing the jar, you’re not alone. Making your own soy candles is one way to cut back on waste, and you don’t need fancy tools to start. Most materials can be found at a local craft store or right at home.

Soy wax burns cleaner than paraffin, and it won’t leave soot on your walls. You melt it down in a glass bowl over hot water, then stir in essential oils once it cools slightly. Think lavender, orange, or whatever scent makes you feel calm.

Pour it into a jar you already love—an old jam jar, a teacup, even a tin. Center the wick with a clothespin and let it sit overnight. The next day, trim the wick, light it, and enjoy the glow.

Store-bought candles are totally fine, too. But when you’ve got a free evening and an extra jar lying around, this is a low-waste, low-stress project with a beautiful payoff.

Learning AI Doesn’t Have to Be Hard

Thank you to The Rundown AI for sponsoring The Canopy.

Quick Picks:

From tiny bees to surprising garden allies, check out this week’s top eco-friendly finds:

• 🐝 New “Fairy Bee” species discovered—These tiny pollinators are bringing big excitement to the beekeeping world.

• 🏨 Vintage motel turned stylish apartments—A creative and sustainable transformation that blends old charm with new purpose.

• 🌿 Weeds you’ll actually want in your garden—Some so-called pests are great for pollinators, soil, and even your veggies.

Reflections:

🌎 True or False: True. Some cocoa farming practices clear tropical forests. Choosing sustainably sourced chocolate can help.

🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured!