Environment / Public News Service

New Mexico's snowpack is significantly below normal for this time of year, with levels at 36% across the state. (Photo courtesy Isabelle Jenniches)

Monday, May 12, 2025

NM groups work to improve soil health, mitigate effects of changing climate

New Mexico's decades-long drought combined with climate change have more farmers and ranchers embracing the six healthy soil principles, tailoring …

All cattle and calves on Florida farms and ranches as of January 1, 2024, including dairy cattle, totaled 1.56 million head, down 50,000 head from 2023, according to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. (Pixabay)

Monday, May 12, 2025

FL researcher exposes meat and dairy industry’s misinformation tactics

By Nina B. Elkadi for Sentient.Broadcast version by Trimmel Gomes for Florida News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service …

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's PFAS action plan focuses on tackling the most pressing compliance issues and responding to concerns from Congress and drinking water systems regarding national primary drinking water regulations for specific PFAS chemicals. (Somphong/AdobeStock)

Monday, May 12, 2025

Will the EPA’s PFAS plan improve Tennessee drinking water?

An environmental group is voicing concern about the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's efforts to tackle PFAS pollution. The EPA recently …

Consumer advocates are asking the California Legislature to allow needy families to defer utility payments during times of hardship. (Golib Tolibov/Adobe Stock)

Monday, May 12, 2025

Consumer groups press for reform to limit electricity costs

Supporters of the Campaign for Affordable Power are pressing state lawmakers to pass a series of reform bills aimed at big investor-owned utilities li…

Many municipalities are now testing drinking water for PFAS but contamination is often widespread and difficult to remove. (show999/Adobe Stock)

Monday, May 12, 2025

MSU study highlights long-term impact of PFAS in drinking water

A new study from Michigan State University researchers revealed lasting PFAS effects in a Michigan community's drinking water near an old paper mill l…

Friday, May 9, 2025

A push for renewed climate solutions in AZ, across US

Nonprofits, businesses, organizers and leaders have signed a letter calling for more climate solutions in Arizona and around the country. They claim …

The National Wildlife Federation said managed grazing is one of the top conservation practices used by South Dakota farmers and ranchers. (Adobe Stock)

Friday, May 9, 2025

Poll, online map show conservation is 'big win' for SD farmers

A new mapping tool shows South Dakota is a big player on the farm conservation scene. The online feature coincides with a new poll, revealing most …

A hunter stands in the Minnesota Heritage Forest Project area, which is protected from heavy industrial use under a new land deal covering nine counties. (Photo courtesy of Jay Brittain)

Friday, May 9, 2025

Mighty Mississippi in MN gets extra shield thanks to land deal

The Mississippi River is the drinking water source for 20 million people and its starting point in northern Minnesota has new protections following co…

Michigan plans to build 100,000 vehicle charging stations for 2 million electric vehicles by 2030. (Mike Mareen/Adobe Stock)

Friday, May 9, 2025

MI 'clean fuels' backers speak out as Congress could end EV tax credits

A Michigan group is speaking out after a top congressional leader's comment that lawmakers will most likely scrap the $7,500 federal tax credit for bu…

The Sierra Club said pollutants can worsen heart conditions, asthma and other respiratory illnesses, especially on days when air quality drops. (Adobe stock)

Friday, May 9, 2025

New Sierra Club dashboard tracks IN coal pollution

Indiana residents now have a new way to track pollution from coal plants across the state. The Sierra Club's new online national dashboard shows how …

North Dakota Game and Fish Department officials say zebra mussels, an aquatic nuisance species, have been detected in larger lakes near Jamestown and Grand Forks. They hope to prevent it from spreading to the central and western parts of the state. (Adobe Stock)

Tiny zebra mussels, if ignored, could be a big problem for ND lakes

Compared with other states, North Dakota has yet to see a big invasion of aquatic nuisance species. But officials are not letting their guard down…

A global survey of 130,000 people across 125 countries found that 89% say their government should do more to fight climate change. (Adobe Stock)

9 in 10 surveyed in CO, across globe back climate action

Nine in ten people in Colorado and across the globe are worried about climate change and want governments to do something about it, according to a …

The Biden administration's Inflation Reduction Act included tax credits and incentives to promote electric vehicle adoption in New Mexico. (See Less/Adobe Stock)

U.S. veterans who hold elective office want environmental investments restored

A bipartisan group of current and former elected officials said the continued use of fossil fuels threatens global security and they want funding for …

Nebraska emitted about 81 million metric tons of greenhouse gases in 2021, 26th highest in the country, according to the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy. (Adobe Stock)

New report stresses EVs for Nebraskans' lung health

A new report from the American Lung Association found air pollution continues to be a problem even as Congress stymies efforts to bolster the electric…

More than three in four Utahns polled believe current oil and gas development fees on national public lands should not be reduced. (Adobe Stock)

House panel eyes boosting oil, gas drilling; most Utahns don't agree

This week, the U.S. House Natural Resources Committee is considering overhauling Biden-era restrictions on oil and gas leasing which could affect …

The nonprofit Elected Officials to Protect America is holding a two-day Energy Security Summit this week in Washington D.C. (Benjamin Wong)

CA elected officials, advocates decry proposed cuts to climate programs

Elected officials spoke out Tuesday at an energy security summit in Washington D.C., calling on Congress to protect federal climate investments and …

Pollution in PA worsens amid ongoing clean-vehicle policy debate

Air pollution in Pennsylvania is getting worse, according to a new report citing transportation emissions as the primary culprit. The American Lung …

As WA air quality worsens, Congress rolls back protections

Air pollution in Washington is getting worse, according to a new report citing transportation emissions as the primary culprit. Eight of the 12 …

A number of Virginia cities in rural parts of the state, such as Charlottesville, Lynchburg and others, rank nationally for high air quality and low air pollution levels. (Adobe Stock)

Report: Resistance to stricter vehicle emissions will affect air quality

A new report found the country needs cleaner vehicles to combat worsening air quality across Virginia but Republican lawmakers are looking to repeal s…

Almost three in four Nevada voters polled believe current oil and gas development fees on national public lands should not be reduced. (Adobe Stock)

Poll: Nevadans oppose ramping up oil, gas development

The U.S. House Committee on Natural Resources will consider reversing Biden-era restrictions on oil and gas leasing in states like Nevada on Tuesday…

In a new survey, 71% of Montanans said they believe oil and gas drilling should be restricted to areas of public land that are highly likely to contain fossil fuels. (Adobe Stock)

House Committee takes up 'drill, baby, drill' budget today

Today, the Republican budget package on the nation's energy policy gets a closer look from the House Natural Resources Committee in Congress…

Davis, Duchesne, Salt Lake, Tooele, Uintah, Utah and Weber counties all received a letter grade of

Multiple UT counties get 'F' in clean air report

Utah counties are struggling when it comes to clean air, according to a new report from the American Lung Association and advocates said Utahns will …

The Agriculture Enterprise Area Program, under the Farmland Preservation program, offers additional financial incentives for communities who commit to keeping land in agriculture use for a specified period. (Adobe Stock)

WI ag conservation program yields farmers' savings

Wisconsin's investment in preserving its agricultural land is offering some solace to farmers and landowners while helping them save money amid a clim…

Bloomington, California, residents protest a warehouse project proposed for their neighborhood in September 2024. (Concerned Neighbors of Bloomington)

Environmental groups fight plan to add warehouses in CA's Inland Empire

A big warehouse project proposed for the Inland Empire is being challenged in court Wednesday by a coalition of environmental justice groups…

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, passenger vehicles emit about 4.6 metric tons of carbon dioxide per year, on average. (Chris Ahern Photo/Adobe Stock)

Detroit area pollution worsens, as 'clean vehicle' debate rolls on

Air pollution in the Motor City area is getting worse, according to a new report citing transportation emissions as the primary culprit. The …

According to a new poll, 93% of Wyomingites agree oil and gas development on public lands should proceed with caution, especially in relation to drinking water and wildlife habitat. (Adobe Stock)

WY poll: 81% say 'don't drill where there isn't oil or gas'

Today, the Republican budget package on the nation's energy policy gets a closer look from the House Natural Resources Committee in Congress…

Air pollution harms everyone's health but is a particular danger to babies, the elderly, people with heart or lung disease and people who work outside. (mmg1design/Adobe Stock)

13 CA counties get 'F' in new clean air report

California has some of the dirtiest air in the nation, according to the American Lung Association's new State of the Air report. Researchers looked …

Advocates say the first year of the Inflation Reduction Act's tax credits for individuals, businesses and nonprofits benefited 160,000 Pennsylvanians and saved more than $260 million. (Adobe Stock)

New map reveals IRA investments boost clean energy projects in Pennsylvania

A new interactive map reveals how recent federal investments from the Inflation Reduction Act are driving clean-energy and climate-resiliency projects…

The Florida Solar Rights Act protects homeowners' rights to install solar energy systems. (Pixabay)

FL solar advocates urge Congress to keep tax credits

As Congress prepares to vote this week on a budget bill which would repeal solar energy tax credits, Florida solar advocates warned the move would …

Churchill, Clark and Washoe counties all have received a letter grade of

NV gets poor grades for air quality. Advocates urge strong emission standards

Nevada's counties have ranked as having some of the poorest air quality, according to a new report by the American Lung Association and advocates …

The American Lung Association lists asthma triggers as smog, vehicle exhaust, burning leaves, cigar, cigarette, or pipe smoke, and wood-burning fireplaces. (Adobe Stock)

Report shows air quality is poor for Hoosiers with asthma

May is Asthma Awareness Month and a new American Lung Association report shows that Indiana's air is harmful for those with the condition. Between 2…

Maricopa, Gila, Pima and Pinal counties all received a letter grade of

AZ has some of nation's dirtiest air. Tailpipe pollution is part of problem

Arizona is ranked as having some of the worst areas for polluted air, according to a new report by the American Lung Association and advocates said …

Experts say Wildfire Community Preparedness Day on Saturday is a good time to move fuels and flammable materials away from homes. (Adobe Stock)

Neighborhood action is more effective for wildfire prep, experts say

Montana's wildfire risk is 74% higher than other states, so experts are encouraging Montanans to think ahead Saturday on Wildfire Community …

Environmental experts say you shouldn't stress out about the carbon footprint from grilling because it is meant to be an enjoyable experience. Still, they urge trying

Health experts teach Marylanders to keep grills safe this summer

That unmistakable smell of hamburgers or steak on outdoor grills will soon be making its way through Maryland neighborhoods. With weather warming up…

Marian University's David Benson spotting birds at the Nina Mason Pulliam EcoLab. Enrique Saenz/Mirror Indy

As rare birds pass through IN, more Hoosiers look up

By Enrique Saenz for Mirror Indy. Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Mirror Indy-Free Press Indiana-Public …

Environmental experts said you should not stress out about the carbon footprint from grilling, because it is meant to be an enjoyable experience. Still, they urged trying eco-friendly ways of grilling, including the cleaning products they use. (Adobe Stock)

Grill cleaning can be a dirty mess, but for air quality, it doesn't have to be

The unmistakable smell of hamburgers or steak on outdoor grills will soon be making its way through Minnesota neighborhoods and with the weather warmi…

According to Food and Water Watch, animals raised for food in the United States generate about 941 billion pounds of manure each year from a population of 1.7 billion. (Adobe stock)

Indiana water at risk as manure fuels hidden contamination

By Nina B. Elkadi for Sentient.Broadcast version by Joe Ulery for Indiana News Service reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Collaboration …

New clean energy manufacturing plants, including for EV batteries, solar panels, and wind turbines, are being built across states like Michigan, Georgia, and Ohio. (Steve/Adobe Stock)

Policy changes could derail Michigan’s clean energy goals

By Alyssa Burr for the Michigan Independent.Broadcast version by Chrystal Blair for Michigan News Connection reporting for the Michigan Independent-Pu…

The average driver in Nebraska's 2nd Congressional District travels 9,300 miles and spends $1,398 on 430 gallons of gasoline annually, according to a report by Coltura. (Adobe Stock)

Congress could roll back Nebraska's choice on emissions standards

Congress could vote today on a measure to eliminate Nebraska's ability to set its own auto emission standards, which are among the most stringent in …

Ohio has seen a 14% year-over-year increase in residential solar installations, with rural counties among the fastest-growing adopters, according to UNPREDICTABLEcity's 2024 report. (Adobe Stock)

Reports: Ohio communities lead on solar growth

A pair of new reports shows Ohio communities are quietly leading the way on clean energy, from urban centers to small towns, with solar power playing …

The U.S. Secretary of Agriculture announced in March the Food Safety and Inspection Service will extend waivers allowing pork and poultry producers to process meat at a faster pace than the previous time limits prescribed. (Photo courtesy Sentient)

USDA moves may compromise safety for MN meatpacking workers

By Whitney Curry Wimbish for Sentient.Broadcast version by Mike Moen for Minnesota News Connection reporting for the Sentient-Public News Service Coll…

NASA describes natural gas, or methane, as a powerful greenhouse gas releaseing carbon dioxide during combustion. (Adobe stock)

IN redefines clean energy with natural gas push

Indiana now classifies natural gas and propane as clean energy under a new state law. Gov. Mike Braun signed Senate Bill 178, granting the fuels …

A recent Supreme Court ruling narrowed the scope of which U.S. bodies of water are protected under the Clean Water Act. A wetlands protection advocacy group said a proposed EPA rule would narrow the definition even further, leaving millions of acres of wetlands across the country unprotected. (Adobe Stock)

New EPA rule could put remaining IL wetlands at risk

Protected wetlands across Illinois could be at risk as the Trump administration considers changes to the Clean Water Act. The Environmental …

Elise Ketcham, communications director for the Arizona Wildlife Federation, said Arizona's ephemeral and intermittent streams are also crucial in diverting water for flood control. (Adobe Stock)

Proposed EPA rule could put Arizona's water resources at stake

Arizona has a unique relationship with water and a proposed rule by the Environmental Protection Agency could further complicate it. It was only two …

Feds fast-track Wyoming energy projects through environmental permitting

The Trump administration has announced what it terms "emergency permitting" for energy projects, streamlining a sometimes yearslong process down to 28…

The Grand Coulee Dam on the Columbia River in Washington is the largest in the Bonneville Power Administration system. (Will/Adobe Stock)

BPA urged to focus on salmon, clean energy in market choice

A major player in the Northwest's energy landscape is considering changes in the future as extreme climate events make power delivery in Washington mo…

The Bonneville Dam is located on the Columbia River near Cascade Locks, Oregon. (Martina/Adobe Stock)

Bonneville Power energy market choice impacts NW environment

A major player in the Northwest's energy landscape is considering changes in the future, as extreme climate events make power delivery in Oregon more …

According to a study by Harvard University, nearly 25 million Americans live in areas without enough dentists. Dental experts warned taking fluoride out of water in areas with few dentists could lead to more tooth decay. (JackF/Adobe Stock)

Some AR communities without fluoridated water also experience dentist shortage

By Brett Kelman for KFF Health News.Broadcast version by Freda Ross for Arkansas News Service reporting for the KFF Health News-Public News Service Co…

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Environment

NM groups work to improve soil health, mitigate effects of changing climate

FL researcher exposes meat and dairy industry’s misinformation tactics

Will the EPA’s PFAS plan improve Tennessee drinking water?

Consumer groups press for reform to limit electricity costs

MSU study highlights long-term impact of PFAS in drinking water

A push for renewed climate solutions in AZ, across US

Poll, online map show conservation is 'big win' for SD farmers

Mighty Mississippi in MN gets extra shield thanks to land deal

MI 'clean fuels' backers speak out as Congress could end EV tax credits

New Sierra Club dashboard tracks IN coal pollution

Tiny zebra mussels, if ignored, could be a big problem for ND lakes

9 in 10 surveyed in CO, across globe back climate action

U.S. veterans who hold elective office want environmental investments restored

New report stresses EVs for Nebraskans' lung health

House panel eyes boosting oil, gas drilling; most Utahns don't agree

CA elected officials, advocates decry proposed cuts to climate programs

Pollution in PA worsens amid ongoing clean-vehicle policy debate

As WA air quality worsens, Congress rolls back protections

Report: Resistance to stricter vehicle emissions will affect air quality

Poll: Nevadans oppose ramping up oil, gas development

House Committee takes up 'drill, baby, drill' budget today

Multiple UT counties get 'F' in clean air report

WI ag conservation program yields farmers' savings

Environmental groups fight plan to add warehouses in CA's Inland Empire

Detroit area pollution worsens, as 'clean vehicle' debate rolls on

WY poll: 81% say 'don't drill where there isn't oil or gas'

13 CA counties get 'F' in new clean air report

New map reveals IRA investments boost clean energy projects in Pennsylvania

FL solar advocates urge Congress to keep tax credits

NV gets poor grades for air quality. Advocates urge strong emission standards

Report shows air quality is poor for Hoosiers with asthma

AZ has some of nation's dirtiest air. Tailpipe pollution is part of problem

Neighborhood action is more effective for wildfire prep, experts say

Health experts teach Marylanders to keep grills safe this summer

As rare birds pass through IN, more Hoosiers look up

Grill cleaning can be a dirty mess, but for air quality, it doesn't have to be

Indiana water at risk as manure fuels hidden contamination

Policy changes could derail Michigan’s clean energy goals

Congress could roll back Nebraska's choice on emissions standards

Reports: Ohio communities lead on solar growth

USDA moves may compromise safety for MN meatpacking workers

IN redefines clean energy with natural gas push

New EPA rule could put remaining IL wetlands at risk

Proposed EPA rule could put Arizona's water resources at stake

Feds fast-track Wyoming energy projects through environmental permitting

BPA urged to focus on salmon, clean energy in market choice

Bonneville Power energy market choice impacts NW environment

Some AR communities without fluoridated water also experience dentist shortage