Environment / Public News Service

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency said Lake Erie is exposed to the greatest stress from urbanization, industrialization and agriculture, and leads in the amount of liquid waste from sewage treatment and plants. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, February 6, 2025

OH group wants federal accountability for Lake Erie phosphorus reduction

Legal action continues in efforts at cleaning up a portion of Ohio's waterways. The Ohio EPA has been added as a defendant, along with the U.S. EPA…

Osprey, bluefish, red drum and cobia rely on menhaden populations for food. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, February 6, 2025

MD menhaden conservation may benefit from VA bill

Atlantic menhaden weigh less than a pound and measure little more than a foot long but the small fish has big consequences for the Chesapeake Bay ecos…

Some $45 million in tax credits for home energy and efficiency upgrades have benefited more than 21,000 Mainers, according to the Natural Resources Council of Maine. (Adobe Stock)

Thursday, February 6, 2025

ME benefits from $2.2 billion in federal clean energy investments

Conservation groups in Maine are calling on the state's congressional delegation to protect federal funding for clean energy technologies. A new …

The Lower Umatilla Groundwater Management Area was designated in 1990, after nitrate contamination was identified in northern Umatilla and Morrow counties. (Miljan �ivković/Adobe Stock)

Thursday, February 6, 2025

Report: Nitrate levels continue to rise in eastern OR groundwater

A new study by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality found nitrate levels have continued to rise across the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater …

Smart agriculture began to emerge in the United States in the early 2000s, with the introduction of GPS technology, sensors and automated systems. (Kaspars Grinvalds/Adobe Stock)

Thursday, February 6, 2025

MI professor spotlights 'smart agriculture'

Some experts predict arable land per person will shrink by two-thirds by 2050. To combat it, Michigan students are being trained in "smart" …

A University of Connecticut study found a growing concentration of certain neonicotinoid pesticides along the state's coast, suggesting potential accumulation and transport of the insecticides. (Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Report: Harmful pesticides found in CT rivers, groundwater

A new report showed a growing problem of harmful pesticides in Connecticut waterways. The University of Connecticut study analyzed 20 years of data…

The Outer Banks is a 200-mile stretch of barrier islands spanning three counties. (oldmn/Adobe Stock)

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Outer Banks officials want to make tourism more sustainable

By Taylor Haelterman for Triple Pundit.Broadcast version by Eric Tegethoff for North Carolina News Service reporting for the Solutions Journalism Netw…

There is a shortage of more than 78,000 rental homes deemed

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Advocacy groups tee up their priorities for NV Legislature

The Nevada Legislature has kicked off this week and progressive groups are sharing their top priorities. Many are asking Gov. Joe Lombardo to work …

Proponents of factory farms argued moving millions of livestock off pastures and into high-density operations, where in many cases animals cannot even move around, conserves valuable farmland. (Adobe Stock).

Wednesday, February 5, 2025

Factory farm advocates’ blind spot on food system reforms

Recent editorials in The New York Times and Washington Post defending factory farms make one critical mistake, according to environmental advocates: …

The Environmental Protection Agency estimates Indiana has more than 265,000 customer-owned lead water service lines currently in use. (Adobe Stock)

Tuesday, February 4, 2025

Indiana steps up to get the lead out

Indiana is working to eliminate lead pipes under the Environmental Protection Agency's Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, which require most lead …

According to Edmunds, EVs and PHEVs combined made up 8.5% of the vehicles sold in May 2024, while gas-powered vehicles made up 82.4% of the market that same month. (Wikimedia Commons)

Monday, February 3, 2025

Survey: NC drivers want carmakers to keep improving fuel efficiency

Americans continue to say improved fuel economy is the most significant change they want from vehicle manufacturers when they offer new products…

In Nevada's disadvantaged communities, companies have announced $1.53 billion in investment and the creation of 1,050 good-paying clean-energy jobs, according to Climate Power. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, February 3, 2025

Trump's federal funding freeze threatens NV's clean energy future

A federal judge will hold a court hearing today on the legality of President Donald Trump's recent executive order to freeze federal grants and loans …

Infrastructure experts say there is a $1 trillion dollar need for drinking water, stormwater and wastewater improvements over the next 20 years in the United States. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, February 3, 2025

MN cities dig deep for safe drinking water, but can they meet goals?

An Environmental Protection Agency rule, finalized near the end of the Biden administration, calls on states and cities to replace all lead pipes in …

Houses are most likely to catch fire from the top down because of falling embers. (Jamie Hooper/Adobe Stock)

Monday, February 3, 2025

Simple ways to protect OR homes from wildfires

As Los Angeles starts to recover, residents across the Pacific Northwest are being reminded of the risks wildfires pose. Timothy Ingalsbee, …

Nationwide, electric vehicle sales are expected to hit 50% within a decade, increasing the demand for charging infrastructure. (Graham/Adobe Stock)

Monday, February 3, 2025

MI invests millions to install EV chargers at multifamily properties

As electric vehicle demand grows in Michigan, a new $5 million program will expand charging station access to places like apartments and condos…

A planned battery system in Texas would reduce carbon emissions by more than 150,000 tons per year. (Adobe Stock / AI)

Monday, February 3, 2025

Possible funding freeze sparks uncertainty in TX energy projects

The back and forth over President Donald Trump's federal funding freeze raises questions about Biden-era investments in energy infrastructure in 23 st…

Iowa is home to more than 25 million pigs, making it the largest pork producer in the United States. (Adobe Stock)

Monday, February 3, 2025

Watchdog group asks lawmakers for more Iowa CAFO oversight

Environmental advocates in Iowa want state lawmakers to tighten regulations on large livestock feeding facilities, which they say will help protect …

Unhealthy concentrations of fine particle matter can threaten vulnerable groups like children, the elderly and people with heart or lung disease, according to the National Institutes of Health. (Adobe Stock)

NH air monitoring project grows with help from citizen scientists

By Elijah de Castro for Keen Sentinel. Broadcast version by Kathryn Carley for New Hampshire News Service, for the Solutions Journalism Network-…

We Don't Waste serves more than 100 hunger relief organizations across Denver, and has so far saved 220 million servings of food. (Galatas)

Denver nonprofit tackles food waste, hunger

By Taylor Haelterman for Triple Pundit.Broadcast version by Eric Galatas for Colorado News Connection reporting for the Solutions Journalism Network-P…

Worldwide economic losses from extreme weather events in 2022 totaled $313 billion, according to the University of Nebraska, where climate researchers work to predict dangerous weather patterns. (Adobe Stock)

Nebraska climatologists collaborate for better weather prediction

The University of Nebraska's High Plains Regional Climate Center in Lincoln is working with weather experts in nearby states to collect and use climat…

Experts say potential health impacts from exposure to nitrates from farm runoff include thyroid problems, adverse pregnancy outcomes and certain types of cancer. (Adobe Stock)

New lawsuit says MN needs tougher action on nitrate pollution

The State of Minnesota faces a new lawsuit over the connection between harmful nitrates from farm fields and the threat they pose to natural resources…

Just 27% of Americans agree automakers care about lowering fuel costs for their customers, according to Consumer Reports. (Adobe Stock)

Arizona drivers prioritize better fuel economy

Spending less money at the gas pump is important for Arizona drivers, according to a new survey. Chris Harto, senior policy analyst for …

Researchers in industries from food production to textiles to technology are using microbes to make products like bioplastics, biofuel, metals and animal feed. (Adobe Stock)

WI researchers use microbes to transform wastewater

By Carolyn Beans for the Proceedings of the National Academy of Science.Broadcast version by Judith Ruiz-Branch for Wisconsin News Connection reportin…

Duke Energy Carolinas said a quarter of additional energy demand will come from data centers by 2028. (kwarkot/Adobe Stock)

Report: Data centers drive gas power plant building in NC, Southeast

Data centers are driving the building of gas-powered plants in the Southeast but it will leave ratepayers on the hook if higher energy needs do not ma…

The major sources of groundwater contamination in Ohio are due to volatile organic compounds and heavy metals, according to a 2024 Ohio Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Report. (Adobe Stock)

Turning sludge from Ohio streams into art

By Amy Felegy for Arts Midwest.Broadcast version by Terri Dee for Ohio News Connection reporting for the Arts Midwest-Public News Service Collaboratio…

Less than 10% of forests in the lower 48 remain untouched by logging or development. (Bob/Adobe Stock)

U.S. Forest Service ditches amendment to protect OR old growth forests

Earlier this month, the U.S. Forest Service announced it would not be following through with the National Old Growth Amendment, which would have …

In 2023, the Biden-Harris administration invested $5.3 million in environmental justice related projects benefiting communities throughout Pennsylvania. (kardaska/Adobe Stock)

PA pollution, flooding concerns rise as Trump ends 'Justice40' initiative

Black communities affected by industrial pollution in South Philadelphia are among those watching a Trump administration rollback of health protection…

Numerous studies have found a link between exposure to long-term air pollution and a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes. (24Novembers/Adobe Stock)

Wayne State study links type 2 diabetes and air pollution

A new study from Wayne State University showed breathing in air pollution, especially benzene, can raise the risk of developing type 2 diabetes…

No current offshore oil and gas drilling leases were affected by outgoing President Joe Biden's order to restrict new drilling, according to the U.S. Department of the Interior. (Garth Weals / Wikimedia Commons)

VA coastline protections: Are they safe in the Trump era?

Days before the end of his term, President Joe Biden announced sweeping protections for the nation's coastlines but President Donald Trump has …

Chronic Wasting Disease was first detected in Wyoming in 1985. According to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department, as of 2023, the disease had been identified in 92% of the state's mule deer herds and 49% of its elk herds. (Adobe Stock)

After Wyoming's new feedground management plan, CWD elk death 'hits home'

A dead elk found east of Pinedale tested positive for Chronic Wasting Disease earlier this month, marking the first such death inside a Wyoming …

Small streams account for a very small percentage of total surface area, yet a study found they contribute 20% to 30% of total nitrous oxide emissions, making them

IL research shows high greenhouse gas levels in farm streams

By Gabriella Sotelo for Sentient.Broadcast version by Judith Ruiz-Branch for Illinois News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service C…

Panelists at the 9th annual NC BREATHE Conference explored issues like hazardous environmental toxins and the climate crisis. (CleanAIRE NC)

Report explores environmental health issues, solutions in NC

A new report highlights steps North Carolina can take as it faces pressing environmental health issues. The report lays out conclusions from the 9th …

Water districts in Los Angeles are working to reduce the region's reliance on water imported from Northern California by recycling more wastewater and encouraging greater conservation. (Craig Dietrick/Wikimedia Commons)<br />

Conservation groups slam Trump’s executive order on CA water policy

President Donald Trump's new executive order on California water policy is drawing criticism from many water conservation advocates. The order …

Nebraska raised about 10.5 million chickens in 2023, a 13% increase from 2022. (Adobe Stock)

Protecting Nebraska workers from avian flu

A bill has been introduced in Lincoln to protect workers in the agriculture sector from dangerous workplace practices and get ahead of a potential avi…

Hurricane Helene swept through 8.9 million acres of Georgia's forestlands on September 26, 2024, causing an estimated $1.28 billion in timber losses. (Adobe Stock)

Georgia's timber industry eyes sustainable aviation fuel to secure its future

Georgia is the nation's top forestry state, grappling with overproduction and the aftermath of severe storms which damaged timber supplies. Industry …

Ohio has nearly 750,000 lead service lines, the third-highest number in the U.S. out of over 6 million such lines still in use nationwide, according to the EPA. (PikePicture/Adobe Stock)

Ohio communities look to update water systems

Lead contamination in drinking water continues to be a significant concern in Ohio. With new federal regulations to tackle the issue, local water …

Factory farms are responsible for between 11% and 20% of global greenhouse emissions, according to the group World Animal Protection. (By Larry Rana-USDA, Public Domain/Wikimedia Commons)<br />

UN Green Climate Fund invests in KY factory farming, report finds

By Sophie Kevany for Sentient.Broadcast version by Nadia Ramlagan for Kentucky News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collabor…

Road deicers, usually a form of salt applied on wintry roads, can eventually be swept away by rain or thaw, forming a bad brew for local waters. (Chesapeake Bay Foundation)

Road salts are hazardous to PA rivers, streams and critters

Just like overindulging in salt is bad for your health, so too is the excessive use of road salt on the environment. Since 2020, PennDOT reported …

According to the state's energy secretary, Indiana is retiring power plants faster than replacing them, jeopardizing energy production and prompting her support for House Bill 1007. (Adobe stock)

Indiana debates nuclear energy for power grid

Indiana lawmakers are advancing a plan to bring nuclear energy to the state. House Bill 1007 would establish a framework for investing in advanced …

The City of Dallas code states landlords must provide - and maintain in working order - heating equipment capable of maintaining an indoor temperature at least 15�F warmer than the outdoor temperature. (Nimur/Adobe Stock)

TX looks at ways to protect apartment tenants during extreme weather

Extreme weather has hit Texas over the last few weeks bringing snow to many parts of the state. During cold weather, landlords are required to …

Are MD coastline protections safe in the Trump era?

Days before the end of his term, President Joe Biden announced sweeping protections for the nation's coastlines. President Donald Trump has vowed …

Iowa produces around 2.5 billion bushels of corn annually, making it the nation's top corn-producing state, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. (Adobe Stock)

Iowa farmers on board with corn-based jet fuel

A company working to create sustainable energy sources is investing in corn to make jet fuel, which it said burns far cleaner than the traditional…

The Climate-Smart Program includes participating farmers from Wisconsin, Iowa, Minnesota and South Dakota. (Adobe Stock)

New program shows environmental impact of green farming

Some Wisconsin farmers are now able to see the environmental effects from their sustainable farming practices through a new conservation program that …

Under the Agricultural Water Optimization Program, the maximum grant amount for irrigation/canal companies is $1,000,000, according to the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food. (Adobe Stock)

Utah program incentivizes farmers to optimize water use

A Utah grant program is aiming to incentivize farmers to optimize their water use. Historically, Utah agriculture has accounted for up to 80% of the …

Peatlands store up to 30% of the world's terrestrial carbon despite occupying just 3% of its land surface. (Photo courtesy Minnesota DNR)

MN's little-known emissions-fighting tool at a crossroads

Minnesotans have until next Tuesday to offer their thoughts on the state's next Climate Action Framework. Those tasked with protecting a distinct …

Larger livestock operations have become a flashpoint in Midwestern states, with backers saying they are modernized to feed the world at lower costs. But some local communities and environmentalists remain skeptical, with air and water quality concerns. (Adobe Stock)

SD pushes to keep certain CAFO details nearly out of reach

Larger livestock operations can be a thorny issue in rural areas and South Dakota lawmakers are proposing restricting feedlot details with more commun…

The hottest year on record was 2024, as average global temperatures continue to rise due to the use of fossil fuels. (Adobe Stock)

Worker's coalition aims to address climate emergency, economic inequality

As President Donald Trump abandons a promise the U.S. made in Paris nearly a decade ago, organized workers across Colorado are joining forces to …

A study found water loss from evaporation at four eastern Washington dam reservoirs will grow by 3.4% over the next three decades. (davidrh/Adobe Stock)

Study finds 'hidden cost' of WA lower Snake River dams

Dams on the lower Snake River in Washington state are losing water to evaporation at a rapid rate, according to a new study. The reservoirs created …

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Environment

OH group wants federal accountability for Lake Erie phosphorus reduction

MD menhaden conservation may benefit from VA bill

ME benefits from $2.2 billion in federal clean energy investments

Report: Nitrate levels continue to rise in eastern OR groundwater

MI professor spotlights 'smart agriculture'

Report: Harmful pesticides found in CT rivers, groundwater

Outer Banks officials want to make tourism more sustainable

Advocacy groups tee up their priorities for NV Legislature

Factory farm advocates’ blind spot on food system reforms

Indiana steps up to get the lead out

Survey: NC drivers want carmakers to keep improving fuel efficiency

Trump's federal funding freeze threatens NV's clean energy future

MN cities dig deep for safe drinking water, but can they meet goals?

Simple ways to protect OR homes from wildfires

MI invests millions to install EV chargers at multifamily properties

Possible funding freeze sparks uncertainty in TX energy projects

Watchdog group asks lawmakers for more Iowa CAFO oversight

NH air monitoring project grows with help from citizen scientists

Denver nonprofit tackles food waste, hunger

Nebraska climatologists collaborate for better weather prediction

New lawsuit says MN needs tougher action on nitrate pollution

Arizona drivers prioritize better fuel economy

WI researchers use microbes to transform wastewater

Report: Data centers drive gas power plant building in NC, Southeast

Turning sludge from Ohio streams into art

U.S. Forest Service ditches amendment to protect OR old growth forests

PA pollution, flooding concerns rise as Trump ends 'Justice40' initiative

Wayne State study links type 2 diabetes and air pollution

VA coastline protections: Are they safe in the Trump era?

After Wyoming's new feedground management plan, CWD elk death 'hits home'

IL research shows high greenhouse gas levels in farm streams

Report explores environmental health issues, solutions in NC

Conservation groups slam Trump’s executive order on CA water policy

Protecting Nebraska workers from avian flu

Georgia's timber industry eyes sustainable aviation fuel to secure its future

Ohio communities look to update water systems

UN Green Climate Fund invests in KY factory farming, report finds

Road salts are hazardous to PA rivers, streams and critters

Indiana debates nuclear energy for power grid

TX looks at ways to protect apartment tenants during extreme weather

Are MD coastline protections safe in the Trump era?

Iowa farmers on board with corn-based jet fuel

New program shows environmental impact of green farming

Utah program incentivizes farmers to optimize water use

MN's little-known emissions-fighting tool at a crossroads

SD pushes to keep certain CAFO details nearly out of reach

Worker's coalition aims to address climate emergency, economic inequality

Study finds 'hidden cost' of WA lower Snake River dams