Written by AV's Intern Team
AV's Intern Team
Every year, Appalachian Voices is fortunate to assemble a phenomenal team of rockstar interns from numerous Appalachian and East Coast universities. Enjoy these posts from our interns.
Trash Trouts are Collecting Litter and Data on Waterway Pollution
These floating devices use a catch-and-release system to trap trash in small tributaries before it reaches main rivers and help gather information on microplastics in waterways.
Lions and Trails and Foragers, Oh My!
Dandelions are complex, nutrient-rich plants with a distinct appearance that makes them ideal for novice foragers.
Black Lung Advocate Judith Riffe is Making Change (and Quilts) in West Virginia
Judith Riffe of the Wyoming County Black Lung Association uses her quilt-making talents to fundraise for the chapter and is spearheading the installation of a statue to bring attention to the role of women miners.
Residents Near Proposed Lambert Compressor Station Push Back, Cite Environmental Racism
A Pittsylvania County community is urging the Virginia Air Pollution Control Board to deny a permit for Mountain Valley Pipeline’s proposed Lambert Compressor Station, which would pressurize and pump natural gas, emitting air pollution in the county’s historically Black Banister District.
From the Rockies to Appalachia: Virginia can look to Colorado for electric co-op reform
Undemocratic governance at Virginia’s electric cooperatives is a serious issue that has left co-op members across the state frustrated and ready for reform. Closed-door board meetings and unfair voting practices are two of the issues members hope to change in 2022.
Potential Federal Action Would Address Common and Harmful “Forever Chemicals”
Congress and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency could soon take steps to protect communities from an incredibly common but little-known family of man-made chemicals that have been accumulating in waterways and in people’s blood for decades.
Clean Up Your Local Creek With Tips From The Pros
Organizing a river or lake cleanup is a fun, effective way to improve local water quality and make a tangible difference. Three river cleanup pros share their tips!
New Clinch River State Park Showcases Biodiversity
Supporters of Southwest Virginia’s newest state park hope that it will foster a conservation mindset and bring awareness to the Clinch River’s rich biodiversity.
Miners with black lung call on Congress to protect benefits
In an August webinar, advocates and representatives of the Black Lung Association discussed the critical importance for the passage of a permanent 25% increase to the Black Lung Excise Tax on coal companies.
Utility disconnection protections: Let’s make it permanent
Shutting off electricity and other vital utilities of families who can’t afford their bills is unjust. During a pandemic, it’s barbaric. Appalachian Voices offers solutions.
