The Advocate — Issue #154

Utility-scale solar is necessary, but has challenges

There are many proposals for large solar projects in Virginia. This blog post explores some of the potential impacts.

Kingston coal ash workers fight for justice

Over a decade after TVA’s massive ash spill, cleanup workers take their fight for justice to the Tennessee Supreme Court

Dandelions are small plants with big potential

Common dandelions are rich in nutrients —  perfect for novice and experienced foragers.

TVA’s decision to stick with fossil fuels isn’t final

Appalachian Voices staff member Angie Mummaw writes about growing up near TVA’s Cumberland Fossil Plant.

Congress considers coal-related bills at June hearing

During a June U.S. House Natural Resources subcommittee hearing, three Appalachian residents, including Erin Savage of Appalachian Voices, testified about acid mine drainage, mine cleanup and ongoing mountaintop removal coal mining.

In Case You Missed It…

• We’re seeking a tech-savvy and collaborative IT Specialist to support our staff in advancing our region’s clean energy transition. Learn more!
• At the first in-person “Hands Across the Appalachian Trail” event since the pandemic, more than 65 people fighting the Mountain Valley Pipeline gathered to celebrate the treasured Appalachian Trail.
• Alongside partners across the country, we’re calling on President Biden to appoint a director to the federal agency that oversees coal mining and cleanup. Read about the petition delivery!

• A new report reviews five years of data to analyze the economic and environmental impact of the Abandoned Mine Land Economic Revitalization Program.

CALENDAR

Red Wing Roots Music Festival
June 24-26: This festival features an amazing lineup of more than 50 acts across five stages. Natural Chimneys Park and Campground in Mt Solon, Va. Visit our table!

Doe River Snorkeling Excursion
June 25, 1-3 p.m.: Join in a high-elevation snorkeling adventure with Roan Mountain State Park Ranger Phil Hylen along the Doe River in Tennessee.

Elegba Folklore Society Juneteenth Commemoration
June 26, 4-9 p.m.: Elegba Folklore Society will present Juneteenth 2022: A Freedom Celebration at the African Burial Ground, 1540 East Broad Street, in Richmond, Va.

BACKWARDS Climate March
July 1, 12 p.m.: Join a march around the Virginia State Capitol to protest Gov. Glenn Youngkin’s policies that would move Virginia backwards on climate action.

North Carolina Utilities Commission Carbon Plan Meetings

July 11, 12 and 27, 7 p.m.: The utilities commission will take public comments on the plan at the Durham County Courthouse (July 11), the New Hanover County Courthouse (July 12) and the Buncombe County Courthouse (July 27)

Southwest Virginia New Economy Network Meeting
July 20, 6 p.m.: Join us for snacks and chats about the local economy at the first in-person meeting in quite some time. Big Stone Gap Visitor Center.

Virginia Highlands Festival

July 22-31: Arts and crafts show, antiques markets, concerts, outdoor adventures and more are featured at this week-long festival in Abingdon, Va.

Celebrating the resistance to Appalachian pipelines webinar

July 25, 7 p.m.: Join Appalachian Voices in part of our 25th anniversary celebration as we discuss the challenges, the people, and the incredible resistance against the Mountain Valley Pipeline and learn about new pipeline threats in the region.

Floydfest

July 27-31: Enjoy the sounds and sights of the region’s premier music festival, and stop by the Appalachian Voices table! Floyd, Va.

Offices in:

Boone, NC • Charlottesville, VA

Knoxville, TN • Norton, VA • Durham, NC

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