Environmental Reporter Special Features

Sewage Sludge, September 27, 2002
Wastewater agencies like the Philadelphia Water Department used to dump their solid waste into the ocean... But now treated sewage sludge is spread on farmland and abandoned mines instead. This approach has caused a divide between many environmentalists and environmental agencies. One promising alternative, compost toilets, may offer a different route, with the added bonus of conserving water.

The Skies are Alive, September 18, 2002
Each year, about 20-thousand hawks, eagles, and other birds of prey fly over Pennsylvania on their way to warmer climates. And between August and December, nearly 70-thousand people will climb to the top of a bird sanctuary at Hawk Mountain in Eastern Pennsylvania to get a good view of those birds.

Community Action , August 16, 2002
Americans produce more trash today than ever before... and large corporate-run landfills have replaced most small town dumps. But while Pennsylvania requires landfills to meet strict environmental safety regulations, people living in the shadow of landfill often complain about the sights, smells, and possible health risks.

Grass-fed Beef, August 12, 2002
Pennsylvania has strong beef and dairy industries, fueled by the 800-thousand adult cattle living on farms and feedlots across the state. Most of those cows spend their lives fattening up on corn and other grains before becoming dinner themselves... but there's a growing number of organic farmers looking at grass-fed cows as a healthy alternative.

Drilling the Trenton Black River, July 31, 2002
On August 8th, the state will hold one of the largest ever auctions for gas and oil drilling rights in Pennsylvania state forest land. Originally scheduled for May, the auction for gas and oil exploration was postponed following protest from environmental groups. The state does plan to move forward, but not without making some changes.

Removing small dams, July 25, 2002
More than 30 small dams have been removed from Pennsylvania rivers and streams in recent years, with many more planned for the future. An ongoing study of one project in Pennsylvania (Pottstown) is providing evidence that dam removal can improve the health of waterways by returning them to their natural state.

A bird's best friend, July 12, 2002
Owls, eagles, hawks, and other birds of prey have it rough in the modern world. They have to navigate electric wires, cars, and loss of habitat — problems that aren't always treated gracefully.

Wandering Ash , June 19, 2002
This summer, 3,000 tons of incinerator ash are on their way back to Pennsylvania. After more than fifteen years, and a trip around the world, the municipal waste ash will be buried in a landfill...

Paddlefish , June 4, 2002
A prehistoric fish may be on its way back to western Pennsylvania. Paddlefish -- so called because of their long paddle-shaped nose -- haven't been seen in Pennsylvania waters since 1919...

BioBlitz, May 23, 2002
Thousands of plants and animals inhabit Pennsylvania, many thriving even in urban settings. A team of researchers from the Carnegie Museum of Natural History recently headed out to Highland Park...

Primary Environmental Concerns, May 15, 2002
The next governor will likely have several major environmental challenges to deal with, but so far, little debate has taken place on these issues...

Trout Fishing in Pennsylvania, April 11, 2002
Trout season in Pennsylvania opens this Saturday. But while the brook trout is Pennsylvania's state fish, only a small portion of the state's waterways support wild trout....

Taking out the Trash, March 26, 2002
Pennsylvania state parks and forests are littered with illegal dumpsites. More than a hundred locations throughout the state have been filled with...

Exeter Coal Fire, February 28, 2002
Home to many active and abandoned mines, Pennsylvania is dotted with coal and coal refuse which can catch fire and burn for extended periods of time...

Green Buildings, February 19, 2002
Principles of sustainable design, or "green building" have been around for years. These are designs that, among other things, reduce energy use and create more comfortable working environments...

A Flurry of Concern, February 4, 2002
As drought conditions persist throughout Pennsylvania, it is possible that the ski resorts dotting Northeast Pennsylvania's Pocono Mountains will be effected...

Nine Mile Run, January 18, 2002
Cities across the state are struggling for ways to keep their tax-bases strong. Pittsburgh's taking a novel approach in adding value to the city, by placing a housing development on a Brownfield Site...

More Zoom, Less Plume, January 10, 2002
At least two auto manufacturers are highlighting hybrid vehicles this week during the annual Philadelphia International Auto Show...

Generating Interest, December 28 through January 2
A package of renewable energy bills pending in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives would greatly help open the market for wind and solar power...