Written by Contributing Writers
Contributing Writers
Who Cleans Up Environmental Mess Bankrupt Coal Leaves Behind?
As more coal companies file for bankruptcy, it remains unclear what will happen to hundreds of thousands of acres of unreclaimed mine land in eastern Kentucky and the rest of Appalachia.
Solar program aids Virginia parishes, schools as environmental stewards
“It is the best of both worlds. We can save money and care for the environment,” said Father Jonathan Goertz, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Danville, one of the churches joining the effort.
Snorkeler Casper Cox Explores Appalachia’s Diverse Freshwater Life
Snorkeling Appalachia’s rivers and creeks puts adventurers face-to-face with a diverse and colorful array of fish.
“Succession School” to Help Ohio’s Elder Generation of Farmers
Young farmers can have trouble accessing land, and often the direct descendants of older farmers are becoming less interested in taking up the torch. An Ohio program aims to help older farmers with the succession process.
Public Hearing on Kentucky Utilities’ Coal Ash Cleanup Plan
Critics say a plan developed by Kentucky Utilities to address groundwater pollution from an unlined coal-ash pond seeping into Herrington Lake is inadequate.
Red Bird Mission Adds Solar
A partnership between Eastern Kentucky organizations recently brought solar panels — and substantial utility bill savings — to Red Bird Mission.
Trailblazers
Three projects show how mountain biking is helping shape development and protect private lands from pavement in Appalachia.
Hemp Finds a Home
A hempcrete house high in the mountains of West Virginia demonstrates that industrial hemp is a viable alternative for homebuilders.
Pristine Waters At Bottom Creek Gorge
The Bottom Creek Gorge Preserve in Montgomery County, Va., contains more than 5 miles of trails and the second-highest waterfall in the state.
Betting the Farm on a “Wild West” Hemp Economy in Appalachia
Ever-changing laws and regulations, a saturated CBD market and high operating costs are stressing the region’s industrial hemp farmers.
