Written by Contributing Writers
Contributing Writers
Bewitched Botany
Discover the sinister beauty of four toxic plants that call the mystical Appalachian Mountains home: pokeweed, dolls’ eyes, climbing nightshade and jimsonweed.
Report: Blue hydrogen hype not backed up by science
According to new research, making hydrogen from natural gas, so-called “blue hydrogen,” is not much better than burning fossil fuels, and would waste billions in federal government spending while worsening climate change.
Chasing the Light of Bioluminescence
Something enchanting lives in Appalachia’s forests. From green glows to bright sparks, bioluminescent lights glow in the summer nights.
Fate of Mountain Valley Pipeline’s North Carolina extension still unclear
North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper raised concerns about the Southgate project, which has drawn opposition from local governments and elected officials who say it threatens private property rights and tourism efforts.
Saving the Tiny Bog Turtle Could Have a Big Impact on Conservation
A petition to protect southern bog turtles under the Endangered Species Act could also help protect their mountain bog homes. But with diminishing habitat and other threats, time could run out for North America’s smallest turtles.
Landfill Remediation Raises New Concerns
As remediation of the troubled Bristol landfill begins, community advocates are petitioning for an alert system, increased air quality monitoring and relief measures for residents who experience strong airborne pollution at home.
Are We Really Recycling?
A look at our recycling systems reveals less of our plastic is actually being recycled than one might think.
Bills Aim to Help Miners with Black Lung and Surviving Family Access Benefits
Miners with black lung disease face a difficult process to obtain modest benefits, as do their widows. Two bills in Congress aim to help miners with the disease and their bereaved families, including by tying benefit levels to inflation.
Fighting for Black Lung Benefits for Miners and Families
Kathryn South’s husband, Mike South, was diagnosed with black lung disease at age 35. As they grappled with his disease, the couple also navigated the arduous legal process to obtain federal black lung benefits, a fight that Kathryn continued even after Mike’s passing.
The Root that Shaped a Region
Luke Manget, author of the book “Ginseng Diggers: A History of Root and Herb Gathering in Appalachia,” discusses the complex and impactful history of ginseng and root digging.
