Harmful Algae Alert: RIDOH and RIDEM say Brickyard Pond in Barrington has harmful algae blooms and urge people to avoid swimming, fishing, boating, and kayaking, plus not to drink untreated water or eat fish from the pond. Invasive Species Watch: Rhode Island Division of Fish and Wildlife reports a northern snakehead caught in Asa Pond, South Kingstown—an illegal, predatory fish that can spread—urging anglers to humanely kill any snakehead and contact DEM. Water Scarcity Pressure: A drought and outdoor water ban are pushing South County officials and URI researchers to rethink the state’s water-hungry turf culture, with calls for a statewide study. Renewables Debate: A new look at renewable portfolio standards argues they can distort electricity markets and obscure costs—an issue that matters as Rhode Island heads toward very high renewable targets. Heat Risk: Forecasters warn the blistering heat returns midweek, with humidity driving heat index values near 100. Local Governance & Environment: North Kingstown residents are publicly debating “the right direction,” with environmental worries tied to development, traffic, and the loss of town character. Clean Energy Infrastructure: Hopkinton is studying an ordinance to prohibit data centers, citing rural environmental impacts. Tech Emissions: Microsoft says greenhouse gas pollution rose about 25% last year, driven largely by expanding data centers. Wildlife & Community Science: A URI-led tick-risk roundup highlights shifting tick threats as temperatures and land use change. Weather: Today looks sunny and warm in Rhode Island, with highs near 87°F.