Fall in Southern Utah: The Best Ways to Enjoy the Season
When the temperatures cool and the desert air turns crisp, fall brings a new kind of magic to Southern Utah. The red rock landscapes glow under golden light, local farms open their gates, and the community comes alive with seasonal events. Whether you’re exploring with family, friends, or simply soaking it all in, here are some of the best fall activities to enjoy across Southern Utah.

Red Hills Desert Garden Scarecrow Walk
Each October, the Red Hills Desert Garden in St. George transforms into a fall wonderland with its annual Scarecrow Walk. Dozens of locally made scarecrows line the pathways, creating a whimsical and festive experience for visitors of all ages. It’s a great way to enjoy the season while surrounded by native plants and red rock views.
Details: Free admission, open daily through October
Where: 375 Red Hills Parkway, St. George

Staheli Family Farm Fall Festival
A Southern Utah fall tradition, Staheli Family Farm is a must-visit. Located in Washington Fields, the farm offers a full lineup of seasonal attractions — from a pumpkin patch and corn maze to hayrides, petting zoos, and farm-fresh treats. For thrill seekers, the “Field of Screams” haunted maze brings nighttime excitement to life.
When: Late September through October
Tip: Bring layers for cool evenings and plan extra time for the corn maze!

The Farm Fall Festival at Fisher Family Farm
In Hurricane, the Fisher Family Farm Fall Festival is a community favorite. Visitors can enjoy live music, food trucks, a petting zoo, and a wide variety of locally grown pumpkins and crafts. This event is ideal for families and anyone who loves a true small-town autumn celebration.
Event Date: October 23, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.
Location: Fisher Family Farm, Hurricane, UT 

Cherry Hill Farms Corn Maze
Cherry Hill Farms offers a picture-perfect fall experience with its pumpkin patch, hayrides, and corn maze. Families can explore during the day or enjoy the maze after dark with festive lights and music. It’s a great way to make lasting memories with loved ones.
When: Throughout October, 5:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Tip: Bring a flashlight for evening visits and comfortable shoes for exploring. 

Thunder Junction Spook-Track-Ular
For a unique Halloween experience, head to Thunder Junction Park in St. George for the Spook-Track-Ular . This ghostly train ride offers a fun and spooky adventure for kids and adults alike, complete with eerie surprises along the track.
When: October 27 - 30, and  6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Where: Thunder Junction Park, 1851 S Dixie Dr, St. George

Tricks & Treats Night at Utah Tech University
Join Utah Tech University for their annual Tricks & Treats Night. This family-friendly event features trick-or-treating, a costume parade, a 1,200-pound pumpkin, live pumpkin carving, games, and activities. It's a perfect evening for families to enjoy the Halloween spirit in a safe and festive environment.
When: October 30, 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Where: Utah Tech University, 658 E 200 S, St. George, UT Admission: Free

Other Fall Highlights in Southern Utah

• Tuacahn Ampitheatre: Get your tickets and sit back and enjoy your favorite numbers, including Thriller, The Curse of the Mummy, Dem Bones, Frankenstein, Jason Jam, Salem’s Mass, The Lost Boys – plus a few new surprises.
• Kayenta Art Village Events: Browse seasonal art shows and markets in one of the area’s most inspiring creative communities.
• Zion Canyon Music Festival: Celebrate music, art, and local food set against Zion’s iconic landscape. 

Experience the Southern Utah Lifestyle
Fall is one of the best times to explore everything that makes Southern Utah special — from family farms and local festivals to the breathtaking beauty of red rock country. These experiences are part of the reason so many people choose to live, work, and play here. If you’re considering making Southern Utah your home, explore listings, market updates, and community highlights at SouthernUtahRealEstate.com. Because home isn’t just where you live — it’s where you experience life.

When most people think of the “hot” real estate season, spring and summer usually come to mind. Families are moving before the new school year, the weather is warm, and “For Sale” signs seem to pop up on every corner. But here in Southern Utah, fall can actually be one of the best times of year to buy a home—and here’s why.

1. Less Competition
By the time September rolls around, many summer buyers have already found their new homes. That means fewer competing offers and less pressure to rush into a decision. For buyers, this can translate into more negotiating power and a better chance of landing your dream home without a bidding war.

2. Motivated Sellers
Homes that didn’t sell over the summer may see price adjustments as sellers become more motivated to close before the holiday season. Sellers often want to wrap things up by the end of the year, which can create opportunities for buyers to get a great deal.

3. Perfect Weather for House Hunting
Southern Utah’s fall weather is mild and beautiful, making it a great time to tour homes. No need to worry about the scorching summer sun or winter chill—you can comfortably explore neighborhoods and picture yourself settling in.

4. Potential Year-End Tax Benefits
For some buyers, closing on a home before the end of the year can come with potential tax advantages. Mortgage interest, property taxes, and other deductions may provide financial benefits when it’s time to file. (Be sure to consult with your tax professional about your unique situation.)

5. Get Settled Before the Holidays
Buying in the fall gives you the chance to move in, decorate, and enjoy your new home just in time for the holiday season. Whether it’s hosting Thanksgiving dinner or decorating for the holidays, there’s something special about celebrating the season in a new place.

Final Thoughts
If you’ve been on the fence about buying a home, don’t overlook the fall season. Southern Utah’s housing market offers year-round opportunities, but autumn can give buyers a unique advantage. Whether you’re looking in St. George, Washington, Hurricane, or beyond, this might just be the perfect time to make your move.

The Washington County Board of REALTORS® (WCBR) is proud to announce that its June 2025 Golf Tournament raised an impressive $16,221 to support the REALTORS® REACH Foundation – Real Estate Assistance for Community Housing. This remarkable achievement was made possible thanks to the generous support of our members, affiliate partners, and sponsors who continue to champion housing opportunities throughout Southern Utah.

These funds are already at work. Thanks to the success of this year’s event and other donations, five $5,000 grants have been awarded to local homebuyers through the REACH program, which provides direct financial assistance to first-time and underserved buyers in Washington County.

The first round of grant recipients includes:

• Joshua Baum
• Celeste Juarez Cardenas
• Hannah Torres & Joshua Allsop
• Grant & Elizabeth Gunther
• (One additional recipient has chosen to remain private)

Three of these recipients are expected to close on their homes before the end of July, marking a major milestone in their journey toward homeownership. Each learned about the REACH program through their REALTOR® and submitted a formal application for review. Final selections were made by members of the WCBR Community Relations Committee, with approval from the WCBR Board of Directors.

The impact of this program is already being felt by recipients like Joshua Baum and Celeste Juarez Cardenas.
This program is about more than housing assistance—it’s about helping essential members of our community, like teachers, healthcare workers, young families, and first responders, and many others stay rooted in Southern Utah. By offering this kind of support, WCBR and the REALTORS® REACH Foundation are helping make homeownership a reality for those who might otherwise be priced out of the market.

The Washington County Board of REALTORS® is proud to serve as the local voice for real estate, private property rights, and community connection. Through its Community Relations Committee, WCBR leads a variety of initiatives that support and strengthen the region we call home.

The next round of REACH grant applications will open later this year. Homebuyers in need of down payment assistance are encouraged to apply. To learn more about eligibility or to submit an application, visit: www.RealtorsREACH.com

When people think about elections, their minds often go straight to the big ones—presidential races, congressional seats, or even statewide offices like governor. But if you want to see real, tangible change in your daily life, look closer to home. Municipal elections—those for city council, mayor, and local boards—affect your streets, your water bill, your housing options, and so much more.

From zoning laws and building permits to public safety budgets and sidewalk repairs, your city’s elected officials shape the policies that affect where and how you live. These decisions influence everything from housing availability and affordability to public transit, school funding, and even your property taxes and utility rates. In short, city leaders help decide what your community looks like—and how livable it is.

One of the most urgent issues facing cities today is housing affordability. Local leaders play a key role in determining how and where housing gets built. City councils decide what types of housing are allowed in your neighborhood, where developers can build, and how much red tape is involved in getting projects approved. They also determine whether to create incentives for affordable housing or to impose regulations that may restrict supply. Decisions around short-term rentals, zoning density, and infrastructure expansion all have a direct impact on how accessible housing is in your city.

If you're concerned about home prices, rising rents, or the availability of workforce housing, it's your local elections that have the greatest influence. These are the decision-makers who can make progress on—or stall—efforts to create more diverse and affordable housing options in your area.

Despite their enormous impact, municipal elections often suffer from low voter turnout. In many areas, fewer than one in four eligible voters participate in local elections. Yet these are the elections that can most directly improve—or disrupt—your quality of life.

To make your voice heard, it’s essential to be informed and engaged. Ballots for the municipal elections in Washington County will be mailed out beginning Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025 and it’s a good time to check your voter registration status to ensure everything is current. You can find official information on how to register, where to vote, and key deadlines by visiting https://vote.utah.gov/

In addition to checking your status, take time to learn about the candidates running for office and their positions on issues that matter to you—especially housing, growth, infrastructure, and public services. These local leaders will be the ones shaping the community your family lives, works, and grows in for years to come.

Your vote in a municipal election is one of the most powerful tools you have to influence your community’s future. If you care about the housing crisis, rising living costs, or whether your children will be able to afford to stay in Southern Utah, now is the time to act. Get involved, stay informed, and make your vote count. Because meaningful change doesn’t just happen in Washington, D.C.—it starts right here, at home.

If you're a homeowner in today’s market, you may have noticed your insurance premiums going up—sometimes significantly. Rising insurance costs are becoming a major factor in the overall expense of owning a home, especially as inflation, natural disasters, and limited competition drive prices higher.

Whether you’ve owned your home for years or are considering buying in Southern Utah, understanding why rates are climbing and how to manage them is key to protecting your investment.

What’s Driving the Increase?
Several national and regional trends are causing insurance companies to raise premiums:

Higher Building Costs
Inflation continues to affect nearly every industry—including construction. When materials, labor, and repair services cost more, it becomes more expensive for insurers to settle claims. That cost gets passed on to homeowners through higher premiums.

Extreme Weather and Disaster Risk
Severe weather events—like wildfires, hurricanes, and flooding—are becoming more common. Even if your area isn’t currently impacted, insurers factor national trends into rate calculations. In high-risk areas, premiums can be four times higher than average. While Southern Utah isn't at the highest risk, wildfire zones and water damage concerns still influence pricing.

Labor Shortages
A nationwide shortage of skilled labor has made home repairs slower and more expensive. The longer and costlier it is to complete claims, the more insurers need to charge to cover their risk.

Reduced Competition
Some insurance companies have pulled out of high-risk markets altogether. When there are fewer insurers in your area, you may have fewer options—and that limited competition often leads to higher prices.

What You Can Do to Save on Insurance
While you can’t control national trends, there are several ways to reduce your individual insurance costs:

Stay on Top of Maintenance
Regular upkeep can help you avoid filing claims in the first place. Fix small problems early—like leaky roofs or faulty wiring—to reduce the risk of major damage that insurers flag as costly.

Shop Around
Even in a tightening market, it’s worth comparing quotes from different providers. Review not only the price but also what’s covered, deductibles, and claim satisfaction ratings. If you’ve been claim-free, that’s a great bargaining chip for negotiating better terms.

Bundle Your Coverage
Many companies offer discounts if you bundle home, auto, or other types of insurance together under one provider.

Adjust Your Deductible
Raising your deductible (the amount you pay out of pocket before insurance kicks in) can lower your monthly premium. Just be sure you can comfortably cover that amount if you ever need to file a claim.

Make Safety Upgrades
Adding security features like smoke detectors, sprinkler systems, or smart home monitoring tools can reduce your risk—and potentially your premium. In fire-prone areas, fire-resistant landscaping or roofing may also lead to discounts.

Keep Your Credit Healthy
Many insurers factor in your credit score when setting rates. A strong score may help you qualify for better pricing, so keep up with payments and manage debt responsibly.

Own a Rental Property?
Here's What You Should Know If you own an investment property in Southern Utah, it’s essential to have the right coverage. A standard homeowners policy won’t protect you from tenant-related issues. You’ll need landlord insurance, which covers property damage, liability, and loss of rental income due to covered events.

It’s also wise to require your tenants to carry renters insurance. It protects their belongings and limits your liability if something goes wrong.

The Bottom Line
Home insurance is more expensive than it used to be—but that doesn’t mean you’re powerless. With regular maintenance, smart upgrades, and a proactive approach to reviewing your coverage, you can help keep your premiums manageable.

And when you’re ready to buy, sell, or invest in Southern Utah, make sure you work with a local Realtor® who understands the market—and how to protect your home in it.

Have questions? Connect with a trusted local Realtor® today!

For eight decades, the VA home loan program has helped open the door to homeownership for millions of Veterans. But despite its long-standing success, a surprising number of eligible service members are unaware of just how powerful this benefit can be—especially when it comes to skipping the down payment.

A Missed Opportunity for Too Many
A recent survey by Veterans United shows that only about 30% of Veterans know they could qualify to buy a home with no money down using a VA loan. That means the majority—7 out of 10—may not be aware of one of the biggest financial advantages available to them. With home prices rising, this knowledge gap could be keeping many from owning a home sooner than they thought possible.

What Sets VA Loans Apart?
VA loans aren’t just about skipping a down payment—they’re packed with other benefits designed specifically for Veterans and active-duty service members. Here’s what makes them stand out:

• No Down Payment: Qualified buyers often don’t need to save for a down payment at all, making homeownership more attainable.
• No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): VA loans waive PMI requirements, unlike most other low-down-payment loans. That can save you hundreds of dollars each month.
• Lower Closing Costs: The VA restricts what you can be charged in fees, helping you keep more money in your pocket at closing.
• Competitive Interest Rates: VA-backed loans tend to offer some of the lowest average interest rates on the market.

Why This Matters 
Buying a home is a major step—but for Veterans, it doesn’t have to be as financially challenging. The VA loan program was created to thank you for your service by making it easier to build stability, invest in a future, and provide for your family. And with no down payment needed, you may be closer to that goal than you realize.

Start with the Right Team
The best way to take full advantage of a VA loan is to work with professionals who understand the process. A VA-savvy lender and a local Realtor® can help you explore your options, determine eligibility, and walk you through every step toward owning a home.

If you’ve served, you’ve earned benefits that can make buying a home more affordable—and more possible—than ever. Don’t let misinformation or uncertainty hold you back. Reach out to a local real estate expert and trusted lender today to see how a VA loan can work for you.

Selling your home can be both an exciting and intimidating journey. With so many factors to consider, it’s crucial to remember that one of the most important steps to ensure a successful sale is accurately pricing your home. The right price at the right time can lead to a smooth, quick sale with an optimal return on your investment. When you get it right, you're more likely to attract motivated buyers, generate interest, and find the perfect offer in the busy Southern Utah market.

Several factors influence your home’s price, including location, size and condition of the property, as well as current market conditions. According to the National Association of REALTORS®, it's important to have a good understanding of the market in your area. Whether it’s a seller's or a buyer's market, an experienced REALTOR® can help guide your pricing decisions and strategy.

To make sure your price is competitive and accurate, a REALTOR® will compare your home to similar homes in your area—often referred to as “comps.” This process includes looking at recently sold homes that are comparable in size, age, and location, which allows you to list for a price that best reflects the true value of your property. But what about that kitchen or bathroom renovation, or the large open space out back? A REALTOR® will take those unique features into account to ensure your home is priced fairly.

While there are online options that can give you pricing estimates, those tools don’t capture the full picture, which is where the personal touch of a REALTOR® is invaluable. REALTORS® have access to the most accurate, up-to-date market data that is specific to communities in Southern Utah. They understand the nuances like schools, zoning laws, and city planning that affect pricing. They know how to adjust for your home’s unique features and are experts at evaluating market trends.

Pricing isn’t just about finding a number; it’s about strategy. REALTORS® know that setting your price just below a round number, for example, can make your home more attractive to potential buyers. Their knowledge and experience is the difference between a home that lingers on the market due to high pricing, as opposed to attracting the right buyers and encouraging competitive offers—leading to a quicker sale and potentially better offers. A well-priced home creates excitement, leading to strong, timely offers that help you move forward with confidence. With the guidance of a skilled REALTOR®, you’ll position your home to stand out in the market and achieve the best possible outcome.

In the end, pricing your home accurately is a key factor in making your selling experience as rewarding as possible. With the expert help of a REALTOR®, you can be confident that your home is priced right for the market, setting you up for a positive, smooth, and profitable experience.

When you’re ready to sell your home, one of the biggest keys to success is having a strong marketing strategy. A great Realtor® will guide you through the process, helping you showcase your home in ways that attract the right buyers — and the strongest offers. Here’s a closer look at what goes into marketing your home effectively:

What Does It Mean to Market a Home?
Marketing a home means using a variety of tools and techniques to promote your property to potential buyers. This can include professional staging, high-quality photography, online listings, social media promotion, yard signage, open houses, and — just as important — strategic pricing. When interviewing agents, be sure to ask about their marketing plan and what strategies they believe will work best for your home and your local market.

How Will Buyers Know My Home Is for Sale?
Exposure is everything. Simple steps like installing a “For Sale” sign in your yard can grab the attention of passersby. But your Realtor® will also list your home on the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), which is the main hub where buyers and other agents search for available homes. This listing ensures your property is visible across dozens of real estate websites, reaching a much wider audience.

Why Are Showings and Open Houses So Important?
Nothing compares to seeing a home in person. Private showings allow potential buyers to explore your home one-on-one, while open houses offer the chance to welcome multiple buyers at once. These opportunities help buyers envision themselves living there — an important emotional step toward making an offer.

How Are Showings and Open Houses Scheduled?
Your Realtor® will coordinate all the scheduling and logistics, making the process easy for you. They’ll also advise on how to prepare your home, from staging to timing. Hosting your first open house soon after your home hits the market can generate early buzz, but timing around local events and buyer behavior is key.

Does Staging Really Make a Difference?
Absolutely. A clean, decluttered, and beautifully staged home helps buyers picture themselves living there — and that emotional connection can drive stronger offers. Even simple updates like freshly cleaned carpets, sparkling windows, and neutral décor can make a huge impact. Many Realtors® offer professional staging services or can recommend trusted local experts.

What Is "Curb Appeal" and Why Does It Matter?
First impressions count. "Curb appeal" refers to how inviting your home looks from the street. Quick updates like trimming landscaping, painting the front door, or pressure-washing the driveway can make your home more appealing before a buyer even steps inside.

How Does Pricing Factor into Marketing?
Pricing your home competitively is a critical part of your marketing plan. The right price attracts more buyers, creates excitement, and can even spark multiple offers. Your Realtor® will help you find the perfect balance between maximizing your return and pricing strategically based on market conditions and your timeline.

Bottom Line:
Marketing your home is about more than just putting a sign in the yard — it’s about crafting the right image, telling a compelling story, and creating opportunities for buyers to fall in love with your home. A skilled Realtor® will be your expert partner through every step of the process. Ready to get started? Connect with a local expert who knows how to market your home and get it sold!

Purchasing a home is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a complex process—especially if you're a first-time buyer. From understanding your financial position to choosing the right home, each step requires careful planning. Whether you're buying your first home or upgrading to a new space, here’s a complete guide to help you navigate the process with confidence.

1. Choosing the Right Home for Your Lifestyle
Before you start visiting homes, take some time to define what you’re looking for. Consider:

• Location: Do you want to be close to work, schools, parks, or public transportation?
• Home Size & Layout: How much space do you need now and in the future? Think about bedrooms, bathrooms, and storage space.
• Amenities: Do you prefer a home with a backyard, a garage, or smart home features?
• Future Growth: Will your household be expanding, or are you looking for a long-term investment?

A home is a major commitment, so think beyond just today’s needs. A knowledgeable REALTOR® can help you weigh your options, provide market insights, and guide you toward homes that align with your lifestyle.

2. The Importance of Your Credit Score
Your credit score plays a major role in securing a mortgage. A higher credit score can mean:
- Lower interest rates
- Better loan options
- Higher chances of mortgage approval

To improve your credit score:

• Pay bills on time
• Avoid maxing out credit cards
• Keep old credit accounts open to maintain a long credit history
• Check your credit report regularly for errors

Even if your credit score isn’t perfect, there are loan programs available for buyers with less-than-ideal credit. A lender can help you understand your options.

3. Pre-Qualification vs. Pre-Approval: What’s the Difference?
Many buyers assume pre-qualification and pre-approval are the same, but they serve different purposes:

• Pre-Qualification: A quick estimate of how much you can afford, based on self-reported financial info.
• Pre-Approval: A lender verifies your income, credit, and assets, giving you a more solid loan estimate.

Why is pre-approval important?
- It gives you a clearer budget
- It strengthens your offer in competitive markets
- Some sellers require it before accepting an offer

4. Understanding Down Payment Options
The traditional rule of a 20% down payment isn’t always required. Many homebuyers qualify for lower down payment options, such as:

• FHA loans: 3.5% down (for buyers with credit scores 580+)
• VA loans: 0% down (for eligible military service members and veterans)
• Conventional loans: As low as 3% down (depending on credit and lender requirements)
• Down payment assistance programs: Available for qualified first-time and low-to-moderate income buyers

A smaller down payment can make homeownership more accessible, though it may come with private mortgage insurance (PMI).  A larger down payment can reduce monthly costs and help secure a lower interest rate. Talk to your lender about the best option for you.

5. Budgeting for More Than Just the Mortgage
Many buyers focus on the down payment and mortgage, but there are other costs to consider when purchasing a home:

• Closing Costs – Typically 2-5% of the home’s purchase price (includes lender fees, title fees, and more)
• Utilities & Maintenance – Monthly bills, upkeep, and repairs
• Homeowners Insurance – Required by lenders to protect against damage or liability
• Property Taxes – Varies by location but must be factored into the budget
• HOA Fees (if applicable) – Common in townhome or condo communities
• Special Insurance Needs – Flood, fire, or earthquake insurance may be necessary in certain areas

A REALTOR® can help you understand these expenses so you can budget realistically before buying a home.

6. How to Compete in a Fast-Paced Market
Homes in desirable areas can sell quickly, meaning buyers need to be prepared to act fast. To stay competitive:

• Get pre-approved before house hunting
• Work with a REALTOR® who understands local market trends
• Know your must-haves vs. nice-to-haves to make quicker decisions
• Be prepared to make a strong offer—sometimes above asking price in hot markets

If you're not ready to move fast, you could miss out on your dream home.

7. Homebuyer Resources to Help You Succeed
 Navigating the homebuying process can feel overwhelming, but there are resources available to guide you:

• Homebuyer Education Programs – Learn about budgeting, loans, and closing costs
• HUD-Certified Housing Counselors – Get financial advice and credit counseling 
• Local REALTOR® Associations – Find guidance and market insights
• Down Payment Assistance & Grants – Help reduce upfront costs for qualified buyers

A REALTOR® can connect you with these valuable resources and ensure you’re making informed decisions.

8. How Soon Should You Be Ready to Move?
The homebuying timeline varies for everyone. Some buyers take months to find the right home, while others may need to act within days.

-If you're in a competitive market, be ready to move quickly once you find a home you love.
-If your lease is ending or you're relocating, start searching early to avoid last-minute stress.

No matter your timeline, planning ahead will make the process smoother and less stressful.

Final Thoughts
Buying a home is an exciting journey, and being well-prepared can help you navigate it with confidence. Working with an experienced REALTOR® ensures you have expert guidance every step of the way, from finding the right home to making a successful offer. Ready to start your home search? Explore SouthernUtahRealEstate.com to start browsing homes and connect with a local REALTOR® today!

As we step into the new year, growth and progress are at the forefront of many minds, especially when it comes to life goals and increased financial stability. Real estate continues to be one of the best ways to build financial stability and improve your quality of life.

In today’s fluctuating real estate market, affordability and availability remain key concerns for many Washington County residents. While various housing and rental options might seem out of reach for some individuals and families, Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are emerging as an increasingly popular solution to provide more affordable housing options. These small, self-contained units, sometimes known as casitas, not only offer renters a cost-effective place to live, but they also give homeowners the opportunity to generate supplemental income by renting them out.

ADUs present a forward-thinking approach to solving both housing shortages and high costs, fostering financial independence and making them a win-win for renters and property owners alike. The market for ADUs is expanding due to their potential to alleviate housing demand without requiring large-scale new construction. Many areas, including Washington County, are adapting regulations to support their growth.

For both renters and potential buyers that might be considering this option, due diligence upfront is important. Even in an area that allows ADUs, zoning ordinances vary. Reach out to a local REALTOR® to become familiar with state and local area rules and regulations to prevent potential setbacks and navigate possible hurdles.

Push forward with a growth mindset and explore these options that are becoming a key tool to address affordability, promote wealth, and create more sustainable communities.