Written by Contributing Writers

AVMountainBorder-frontporch1

Contributing Writers

Fern Way Bridge, North Carolina. Photo credit: Rev. Rob Morris, Executive Director, Christmount.

Community efforts to repair private roads and bridges underway in NC, hopeful for FEMA funding

Hurricane Helene washed out or damaged thousands of private roads, driveways and bridges in late September across multiple states, but many families are still waiting for help to rebuild access to their homes.

Read More
graphic of valley so low cover

In “Valley so Low,” an environmental disaster creates a crisis for cleanup workers – and restitution proves elusive

“Valley So Low” explores 15 years of harm to the workers who cleaned up the Kingston Coal Ash Spill and their pursuit of justice.

Read More

‘We are deserving of a voice:’ How Native American culture and connection fuel Venus Evans’ advocacy

Venus Evans’ desire for community among other Appalachian Native Americans has grown into advocating for tribes across Kentucky to be seen, recognized and supported.

Read More
A depression in a rock ridge is filled with water. Clouds fill the valley below and sunrise colors the sky.

Seven Geological Wonders of Appalachia

The Appalachian Mountains are abundant with magnificent natural wonders. Here’s a sampling of stunning geological features within the region.

Read More
A man points to a machine while speaking.

‘Every Stick:’ SWVA Biochar Uses Local Waste to Create Quality Soil

A Southwest Virginia company’s biochar product is carbon-negative and has applications in agriculture.

Read More
A woman holds a spotted skunk.

Why Appalachia’s Spotted Skunk is so Rare

The eastern spotted skunk was not always as rare as it is today. Find out what researcher Emily Thorne has learned about this master of malodor.

Read More

New Effort to Reduce ‘Forever Chemicals’ in Drinking Water

The Environmental Protection Agency set stricter limits on the levels of certain PFAS chemicals in drinking water and is providing funding to test and treat public water systems and private wells.

Read More

Study Predicts Five-fold Increase in Regional Wildfires

A recent study warns of a dramatic increase in the amount of land burned by wildfires in southern Appalachian forests, and provides information for fire and land management strategies.

Read More

Pisgah View, North Carolina’s Newest State Park, Moves Forward

A 1,300-acre land acquisition advances North Carolina’s newest state park to the master planning stage.

Read More
A couple sits atop the grassy summit of Max Patch, taking in the views under a beautiful blue sky dotted with white cumulous clouds.

How Max Patch Bald is Finally Healing

After overuse forced the closure of Max Patch Bald, efforts by the U.S. Forestry Service and trail groups to restore the area show dramatic progress.

Read More