A publication of Appalachian Voices


A publication of Appalachian Voices

Clearing the Air on How Wood Pellet Factories Affect Their Neighbors and the Climate

The wood pellet industry is growing in the American South, but communities near wood pellet plants are seeing damages to air and water quality. As new facility proposals from wood pellet companies like Enviva continue, local residents and regional climate activists are speaking out.


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.


Nuclear Company Pursues Plans to Refine Uranium in Erwin, Tennessee

As Nuclear Fuel Services, Inc., pursues plans to begin producing refined uranium in Erwin, Tenn., local environmental and safety advocates are objecting.


Black Lung Resurgence Drives Push to Protect Coal Miners Against Silica Dust

Silica dust is behind a dramatic increase in the number of miners becoming ill with the most severe form of black lung disease.


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.



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.


Journey to Rainbow Falls at Jones Gap State Park

This South Carolina state park boasts a 100-foot waterfall, a wide variety of wildflowers and more.


Lions and Trails and Foragers, Oh My!

Dandelions are complex, nutrient-rich plants with a distinct appearance that makes them ideal for novice foragers.


Contaminants Found in East Tennessee Springs

Springs are often assumed to be a safe, clean source of drinking water. But they can harbor a number of health hazards, as new research published in the journal Geosciences shows.



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Special Notes

The Appalachian Voice shifts to online-only

We are ceasing the print publication of The Appalachian Voice for the time being due to the impact of the pandemic, but we will continue to publish new stories online. Read more.


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The Appalachian Voice is a publication of Appalachian Voices
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