Written by Molly Moore
Molly Moore
Molly is passionate about sharing the environmental and cultural stories of our region. She has worked with Appalachian Voices since 2011 and currently serves as AV's Director of Program Communications and Editor of The Appalachian Voice publication.
Student Influences State Reptile Selection and other shorts
An 11-year-old influenced the selection of Virginia’s official state snake, 17-year cicada brood is expected in northern West Virginia and Ohio, Tennessee legislators push for wilderness designation in the Cherokee National Forest and more.
Regional Solar Updates
North Carolina ranked second in solar growth for 2015, and a Virginia solar project is moving forward after an initial roadblock from state regulators.
Citizens Show Strength at NC Coal Ash Hearings
Throughout the month of March, the North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality held a series of public hearings to gather input on cleanup of the state’s nearly 150 tons of coal ash. Our team worked with local residents to drive high attendance and call for stronger cleanup plans.
Response to Spill Leads to Action Against Coal Polluter
Our Appalachian Water Watch team was able to document the spill of acidic water on Pine Creek as it occurred in real-time, spurring public outcry and state action against the mining company.
Virginians Call on McAuliffe for a Bold Clean Power Plan
Virginians gathered for a Day of Action on April 2 to remind Governor McAuliffe of his commitment to cut carbon and focus on renewable energy job creation for the Commonwealth.
Preliminary Draft Plans For Nantahala and Pisgah National Forests Published
The National Forest Service publishes the draft foundations of the Pisgah and Nantahala National Forests long-term management plans.
The Butterfly Highway: Creating a Pollinator Pathway
The new “Butterfly Highway” in North Carolina will create a series of stopover points with milkweed and other native, flowering plants for migrating monarch butterflies.
New Park, Scenic Loop Passed by Virginia Legislature
The Virginia legislature passed funding for a Clinch River State Park and designated a new scenic drive loop for the area in an effort to celebrate the natural beauty of the state’s southwest region.
Homeowners near mine struggle with blasting damage
From The Appalachian Voice: Karen and Jerry Kirk live in a home that they believe was damaged during blasting for a nearby surface coal mine. Despite years of frustration, they have been unable to get compensation for the damage to their property.
