The Appalachian Advocate — Issue#121

September 24, 2019

Trail hikers and nature lovers: Join Hands Across the AT!

Both the Mountain Valley and Atlantic Coast fracked-gas pipelines are proposed to cross the treasured Appalachian Trail on U.S. Forest Service lands, but can’t thanks to longstanding protections under federal law. As these issues unfold through numerous legal cases, more must be done to protect the AT and stop these pipelines for good.

[ Join trail hikers and enthusiasts for the Hands Across the AT events Sept. 28 (Giles County and Augusta County, Va) and Sept 29. (Loudoun County, Va)! ]

Also, share why you love the AT and why you don’t want the Mountain Valley or Atlantic Coast fracked-gas pipelines. On your favorite social media platform, be sure to use #noMVP, #noACP, #stopworknow, #HandsAcrosstheAT, #protecttheAT, #Thruhikersagainstpipelines

A decision point for abandoned coal mines

A centuries-long legacy of coal mining supported the development of the United States, but also left an immense amount of mined land in need of reclamation. This week we released an interactive web map and accompanying analysis that examines the Abandoned Mine Land inventory, sheds light on the scope of the problem, and identifies where funds need to be directed and how much funding is necessary to reclaim these abandoned former mine sites.

[ View the Abandoned Mine Lands story map ]
[ Read our in-depth report ]

We respond to Gov. Northam’s 100% zero carbon by 2050 promise

This week, Gov. Ralph Northam signed an executive order setting a goal for Virginia to achieve 100 percent zero-carbon electricity by 2050. While we applaud that pledge, some of Virginia’s current energy policies contradict that very commitment.

[ Read our statement and learn more about Executive Order 43 ]

Bankrupt mines and reclamation problems

Virginia regulators have initiated bond forfeiture for five mine permits owned by recently bankrupt coal companies. This is the strongest tool regulators have for dealing with chronic mine reclamation problems, but as our Willie Dodson explains, the path forward is anything but certain. Meanwhile, people living downhill from one of these mines are threatened by runoff and debris from the mine site above.

[ Read more ]
[ Blackjewel’s black lung problem ]

Saving Appalachia’s lost heirloom apples

For the past two decades Tom Brown has worked to rescue the lost heirloom apples of Appalachia, traveling the region on the hunt for little-known apple varieties such as Cannon, Sheepnose Sweet, Fort’s Prize and Junaluska which he then grafts, raises and sells at his nursery. To date he has recovered more than 1,000 different varieties.

[ Learn about Tom’s quest ]
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Attend a National Solar Tour event near you!

Throughout October, more than 700 homes, businesses and institutions across the country will open their doors to showcase their solar installs and engage communities around the power of solar energy. In addition, 70 multi-site tours will take place, including a tour in Wise County, Va., on Oct. 19 hosted by Appalachian Voices, the Southwest Virginia Solar Workgroup, and other partner groups!

[ Check for locations near you or join us for the Wise County tour!]

Appalachian Voices is committed to protecting our land, air, water, and communities. Join the fight and become a member today!

JOIN NOW!

Now hiring!
Appalachian Voices is seeking to hire an individual with strong organizing skills and a keen interest in social and environmental justice as our Energy Democracy field coordinator in Virginia. Learn more and apply!