Data Center Trust Fight in St. Louis: A local editorial says public support for data centers is being undermined by secrecy and behind-the-scenes political pressure, after a planning commission meeting was reportedly disrupted by an unnamed elected official texting the commission chair to reconsider tighter rules. Severe Weather Outlook: NOAA is forecasting a warmer-than-average fall for much of the U.S., with El Niño strengthening and Missouri among states in “equal chances” territory—meaning heat could linger longer into autumn. Water Quality in Missouri: A report says 85% of Missouri recreational waterways have potentially unsafe fecal contamination, raising public health concerns for swimmers and families. Wildlife & Pollinators: Missouri’s baby squirrel season is back, with rescuers urging people to keep healthy babies with their mothers, and a separate push encourages counting bees to help protect pollinators. Prescribed Fire Education: The Southeast Dakota Prescribed Burn Association is hosting a field demonstration focused on managing woody encroachment and boosting native grasses and wildflowers with fire. Renewables Grid Build: Survey work is set to begin for the Big Stone South to Alexandria 345-kilovolt transmission line, including environmental and geotechnical checks along a route designed to limit impacts on farmland.