Written by AV's Intern Team

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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.

Proposed Stream Protection Rule Released

By Erin Savage The agency responsible for regulating…

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Alabama Coal: Strip Mine Proposal Halted on Mulberry Fork

By Kimber Ray Even to those familiar with…

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Scientists implement bioremediation techniques in an effort to reduce the volume of PCBs at the overflow pond in Altavista, Va. Photo by Kevin Sowers

Virginia Town Tests Natural Pollution Treatment Techniques

Using natural methods to remove toxic material from soil and water is an ancient practice that has not been well-studied. A series of projects in Altavista, Va., could be the first to show that bioremediation can be a successful, cost-effective way to treat PCB contamination.

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A view of the Blue Grass Chemical Agent-Destruction Pilot Plant. Photo courtesy Blue Grass Chemical Stockpile Outreach Office

Disposing of a Chemical Past

Rockets and projectiles containing more than 500 tons of nerve gas and other chemical weapons from World War II and the Vietnam War era are stored near Richmond, Ky. If all goes according to plan, those weapons will be destroyed over the next few years in a multi-billion facility in final stages of construction.

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In the Neighborhood: Living with Coal Ash

By Sandra Diaz Tracey Edwards, a lifelong resident…

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A Deluge of Dam Removals

A torrent of dam removals have occurred across the country in the past decade, and Appalachia is no exception. We take a look at why some dams stand tall, and others are ready to fall.

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The Big Sandy crayfish, which is currently considered endangered by Virginia officials, may also be listed as federally endangered. Photo by Zachary Loughman, West Liberty University

Mounting Threats Imperil Two Appalachian Crayfish

There are more than 300 different species of crayfish in the southeastern United States, and two West Virginia species of these adaptable freshwater crustaceans may be declared federally endangered.

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A resident of Big Island, Va., wades into the swimming hole on the Devil’s Fork Trail, which hikers encounter before reaching the Devil’s Bathtub. Photo by Joe Tennis

Cooling off in the Devil’s Bathtub

Hikers flock to the cool swimming spots along the Devil’s Bathtub Trail in southwest Virginia, though the trail can be challenging.

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Photo courtesy Trout Unlimited

Trout Introduction Efforts Show Promise in Southwest Virginia

A southwest Virginia effort to boost trout fishing has led to the introduction of tens of thousands of trout into two area streams, and local classrooms are also getting involved.

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Train Fire Sparks Evacuations, Water Concerns

A train carrying a carcinogenic chemical derailed near Maryville, Tenn., leading to the evacuation of 5,000 citizens and fish deaths that might be linked to the spill.

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