Front Porch Blog
Updates from Appalachia
The “Fox Guarding the Henhouse” cabinet
Many of Donald Trump’s Cabinet appointees take positions that threaten public health, air and water quality, and our natural heritage, and that accelerate climate change. Appalachian Voices is joining with clean energy advocates, climate activists and public health proponents across the country in urging the Senate to stand for our health and environment and reject these nominees.
Congress takes aim at stream protections
In December, the Obama administration released the final Stream Protection Rule knowing it would be a likely top target for the incoming Republican-controlled Congress. And it is, indeed, in the crosshairs — but members of Congress should understand they’re gambling with Appalachia’s health and economic future, all for a risky bet on coal’s unlikely comeback.
Aww shucks, y’all …. thanks!
We’re doing a little victory dance today! Blue Ridge Outdoors’ readers voted Appalachian Voices the Best Environmental Organization in 2016. Aww shucks — thanks everyone. We’re committed to living up to the honor in 2017, and beyond.
Zach Galifianakis’ “Democracy for Sale” screens in North Carolina
A new documentary by Zach Galifianakis digs into how North Carolina has been transformed by the growing tidal wave of political spending. Screenings of “Democracy for Sale” will take place in numerous North Carolina towns throughout January and February.
Gov. Cooper nominates new environmental secretary
Gov. Roy Cooper has appointed Michael Regan as the next secretary of the N.C. Department of Environmental Quality. Regan pledged to develop greater transparency at the agency. That alone could signal a shift from the prior DEQ leadership’s approach to public engagement on environmental issues.
