The Appalachian Voice
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.
Read MoreCitizens 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.
Read MoreResponse 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.
Read MoreVirginians 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.
Read MorePreliminary 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.
Read MoreThe 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.
Read MoreNew 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.
Read MoreMeet The Elusive American Woodcock
Characterized by a long bill, short and stout stature, extravagant mating display and a nickname like timberdoodle, the American Woodcock would seem to be a bird that stands out. But that is not the case.
Read MoreFarming and Fracking
How uncertain property rights affect agriculture in West Virginia By Dave Walker This year will be Steve Vortigern and his wife Sunshine’s tenth year of farming in Preston County, W.Va. On 41 acres, they grow more than 40 different varieties of organic vegetables and raise grass-fed beef for local customers at Round Right Farm. In…
Read MoreOwning the Mountains: Appalachia’s history of corporate control
By Elizabeth E. Payne Throughout the history of the United States, Appalachia has attracted the attention of outside investors hoping to profit from the region’s valuable commodities. First timber, then coal and now natural gas are all highly valued. To ensure access to these resources, early investors bought large parcels of land in Appalachia. “By…
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