July 22, 2015
Stream "Protection" Rule Falls Short
The Obama administration says its draft rule to mitigate the water quality impacts of surface coal mining represents a "balanced approach to energy development." But there's nothing balanced about blowing the tops off ancient mountains and jeopardizing the health of thousands of Americans.
Va. City First to Support POWER+
The City of Norton in southwest Virginia has voted unanimously to support a federal budget proposal that would steer billions of dollars for economic development to coal-impacted communities, including in Virginia. It's the first such local resolution in the nation supporting the White House's "POWER+ Plan." Appalachian Voices championed the resolution with Norton's leaders, and we commend them for leading the way on this vital issue.
Searching for Answers on Coal Ash Safety
Duke Energy has done little to provide peace of mind to North Carolinians living near coal ash ponds who have been told their water is unsafe to drink. So citizens and local officials are stepping in to help residents find answers.
[ Read more ]
Golden Opportunity in Disguise
Abandoned mine lands are a scourge on nearby communities, polluting water sources and scarring the land. But with key fixes, a federal program for restoring these sites could result in thousands of jobs in Central Appalachia and hundreds of millions in economic benefit -- plus cleaner streams and a healthier future for residents.
APCo Seeing the (Cleaner) Light
Appalachian Power Co., which serves much of western Virginia, plans to tap a lot more sunshine and wind for energy sources in the future. That's good news, but the utility has got to ramp up its energy efficiency, which accounts for a paltry 1% of energy needs by 2029.
[ Learn more about ApCo's latest plan ]
We're Off to FloydFest!
It's not too late to join us in Floyd, Va., for one of the best music and arts festivals in the area! Come for one day, an overnighter, or multiple days -- there are a few tickets left, so hurry now!
Ask the Experts: Economic Solutions
Join our upcoming webinar, "Community-driven Economic Solutions in Appalachia," on Tuesday, July 28 at 2 p.m., to learn about three projects that are empowering local residents to create more diverse and sustainable economies. We'll take a look at a range of solutions, from downtown revitalization to outdoor recreation and brownfield redevelopment.
Scientists Go to Bat for the Bats
In less than 10 years, more than 5.7 million bats have succumbed to the fungal disease known as white-nose syndrome. But scientists have found bright spots in the fight to protect bats from the disease, and a cure may now be within reach.
[ Full calendar ]
