Across Appalachia
Environmental and cultural news briefs
NC Groups Challenge Laws Favoring Industrial Hog Operations
Several N.C. environmental and community groups filed a challenge against laws that limit lawsuits against industrial hog operations, claiming that the facilities violate individual property rights and that the laws discriminate against minority groups.
Endangered Mussels to Get Protection
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service agreed to grant critical habitat for four endangered mussel species in 18 states by 2024.
Fire Destroys Office at Highlander Center, White Supremacy Sign Found
The main office of the historic Highlander Research and Education Center in New Market, Tenn., burned down in March. A symbol associated with white supremacy was found spray painted outside the racial, social and economic justice organizing center.
Clinch Coalition Draws Attention to ATV Impacts on Streams
Southwest Virginia environmental watchdog group The Clinch Coalition is expressing concerns about damage to streams and wetlands from some of the Spearhead Trails network’s off-road vehicle trails.
Plans for Development at Tennessee’s Rocky Fork State Park Meet Opposition
Conservation advocates claim that the state’s plans to build build a visitor center, parking lot, bridge and two-lane road at the rustic state park would endanger wildlife habitat.
