Front Porch Blog
Updates from Appalachia
One fish, two fish … Dead fish
A study from researchers at the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) published this month provides strong new evidence that mountaintop removal coal mining in Appalachia is devastating downstream fish populations.
Fortunately, the Obama administration has an opportunity to take meaningful action to protect Appalachian streams.
Parallels between New England whalers and Appalachian coal miners
Nick Mullins, a former Va. coal miner, discovers the parallels between New England whalers from two centuries ago and the current conundrum facing Appalachia’s coal mining community. Nick and his family are journeying around the east this summer on the “Breaking Clean Tour” to raise public awareness of mountaintop removal mining, and learn about more sustainable paths to prosperity.
Stories from South Central Regional Jail, WV
The January spill of the coal-processing chemical MCHM in West Virginia poisoned the tap water of some 300,000 people. Stories are now emerging that some of them were inmates at the regional jail who were denied access to ample, clean water.
Mountain Justice Summer – 10 Years Strong!
Mountain Justice Summer Camp, a week-long gathering of Appalachian advocates, celebrated its 10th anniversary this month. Appalachian Voices Grassroots Organizing Intern Chloe Crabtree reflects on the experience and what it means to act.
The Power of Energy Efficiency — Building a Stronger Economy for Appalachia (Part 4)
This is the fourth installment in a five-part series illustrating the need for greater investments in residential energy efficiency as an economic driver in rural Appalachia. In this post, we explore the history and role of rural electric cooperatives, and explain why they should be doing more to help their members reduce their energy bills, and how they can overcome any barriers they face.
