Author

Richard Bednarski

Richard Bednarski is a freelance multimedia journalist living on the eastern slope of the northern Sierra Nevada. With a master’s degree in journalism, he mainly focuses on local stories centered around the environment, climate change, agriculture, and social justice. He is currently working on a book about conservation and Wilderness in Nevada. Beyond writing and photography, Richard was the cinematographer and editor for the award-winning short documentary film Piconland.

He can be found riding his bike, gardening, and raising two daughters when not creating stories.

Richard's Latest Articles

To Rewild the Truckee River: The Rock-McCarran Flood Project

The Truckee River is the spine of the greater Reno community, threading through neighborhoods, open spaces, and industrial areas alike. While there are a few pockets of underdeveloped land along its bank, one project hopes to restore a natural flood plain.

Robust water system eases drought concerns

Coming into this winter, northern Nevada and parts of northern California were abnormally dry and nearing moderate drought. But a late winter storm in March helped create a healthy water outlook for the Truckee Meadows.

A photo of a person holding Donald Trump memorabilia, money with Trump's face on it.
Ally Audio: John Does, Data Centers, and Tariffs…oh my!

Check out the latest edition of Sierra Nevada Ally's podcast

Data Centers: Economic benefit or environmental boondoggle?

The city of Reno, Nev. is approving more local data center projects. Are they worth the environmental cost?

An aerial photograph showing the confluence of Steamboat Creek into the Truckee River, showing a darker brown Truckee compared to the cleaner, clearer Steamboat.
Ally Audio: What do the agencies targeted by Trump’s latest executive order do?

Check out the latest edition of Sierra Nevada Ally's podcast

Getting Sparks “Unstuck” from its Land Problem

Within just a couple years, the city may not have residential developable land left, leaving it unable to collect additional property taxes needed to provide services. Local and federal officials are working to change that.

Facing growing pains, Sparks looks towards a possible toll road

The new road, connecting Spanish Springs to USA Parkway, would be the only toll road in the state.

Can Nevada cyclists benefit from the Idaho Stop?

Lawmakers propose a new law that allows cyclists to yield rather than stop. But will the measure help public safety for riders and drivers?

Photos: All Eyes on Carson City as Legislative Session Begins

Lawmakers and lobbyists are in Carson City as the 2025 Legislative Session kicks off Monday.

Aerial view of an area that experienced a landslide following a wildfire
After wildfires, wet storms and burn scars join forces in elevating landslide risk

Atmospheric rivers are here to stay. What impact do they have on fire stricken landscapes?