Written by Contributing Writers

Contributing Writers
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.
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.
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.
Endangered Tiny Tarantula Faces Habitat Loss
An endangered, tiny tarantula living in moss in the Appalachian Mountains is losing more of its habitat.
10 New Spider Species Discovered in Appalachia
Researchers have discovered 10 new spider species that have adapted to the subterranean habitat of Appalachian caves.
Activists Rally Over Pending Fracking on Ohio’s State Lands
A governor-appointed commission could begin approving fracking leases on Ohio’s state lands as early as next month. A rally to oppose the leases will be held Friday, Oct. 27 at noon at the Ohio Statehouse.
Bewitched Botany
Discover the sinister beauty of four toxic plants that call the mystical Appalachian Mountains home: pokeweed, dolls’ eyes, climbing nightshade and jimsonweed.
Report: Blue hydrogen hype not backed up by science
According to new research, making hydrogen from natural gas, so-called “blue hydrogen,” is not much better than burning fossil fuels, and would waste billions in federal government spending while worsening climate change.
Chasing the Light of Bioluminescence
Something enchanting lives in Appalachia’s forests. From green glows to bright sparks, bioluminescent lights glow in the summer nights.
Fate of Mountain Valley Pipeline’s North Carolina extension still unclear
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper raised concerns about the Southgate project, which has drawn opposition from local governments and elected officials who say it threatens private property rights and tourism efforts.