Public health advocates are calling for a federal ban on paraquat dichloride, a toxic herbicide linked to Parkinson’s disease and other severe health issues. The EPA will decide in January 2025 whether to renew the herbicide’s license. Farmworkers emphasize the need for safer agricultural practices to protect public health. Continue reading Health and farmworker advocates urge ban of herbicide linked to Parkinson’s
Twenty-four Republican-led states, led by Nebraska’s Attorney General Mike Hilgers, are urging the EPA to reject California’s request for stricter truck emissions regulations, claiming it overreaches and could increase costs for consumers. They argue rural areas lack infrastructure for electric vehicles and would bear the brunt of higher logistics costs. Continue reading 24 attorneys general challenge California regulation on big trucks
The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has distributed over $6 million in aid to South Dakotans after late-June storms, with Union County receiving the largest share. Many residents are facing challenges with home repairs and finding temporary housing. The U.S. Small Business Administration has also approved over $2.5 million in disaster loans. The application deadlines for both FEMA and SBA aid are approaching. Continue reading FEMA approves $3.5 million for Union County, which includes McCook Lake
The Iowa Department of Natural Resources is investigating a diesel spill in a tributary of Willow Creek in Monona County. The spill occurred when a pickup truck carrying red diesel crashed, causing the contents to empty into the water. Booms have been deployed to contain the spill, and the driver is cooperating with the authorities for cleanup. Continue reading Diesel spill near Mapleton reaches Willow Creek
The South Dakota Supreme Court ruled that Summit Carbon Solutions has not proven its right to take private land for its carbon-capture pipeline project. The company plans to appeal, claiming it qualifies as a common carrier. Landowners and lawmakers see the ruling as a victory, anticipating further legal battles over the project’s impact. Continue reading Court ruling complicates carbon pipeline company’s push for land
The Bailing Out Benji organization reported Federal inspectors citing several Iowa breeders for regulatory violations, including inadequate veterinary care and sanitation issues. Violations were also found in 16 other states. Iowa-based breeders were among those cited, with five cited in the second quarter of 2024. Violators include Dunroven Farms, Century Farm Puppies, Coldwater Kennel, New Designs Kennel, and Riverside Kennels. Continue reading Puppy mill update: Five Iowa breeders cited for violations
Victims of the June 23 flood in McCook Lake feel abandoned by government officials, with uncertainty about federal aid. The flood destroyed 40 homes and caused infrastructure damage. South Dakota’s disaster declaration process delayed FEMA assistance. State officials defended the assessment process and contractors, while some officials expressed confidence in aid approval. Continue reading McCook Lake victims still ‘in the dark,’ waiting for FEMA help nearly seven weeks after flood
Climate change is expected to drive a mass migration from coastal areas due to rising sea levels and extreme weather. This presents an opportunity for rural Midwest communities like Nebraska to revitalize and attract new residents. Initiatives such as enhancing quality of life and promoting soil health hubs are seen as ways to prepare for potential climate migrants. Continue reading Nebraska pitched as possible destination for ‘climate migrants’
By Jared Strong, Iowa Capital Dispatch Underground drainage tiling apparently failed and formed a sinkhole in a corn field in northwest Iowa that allowed manure to flow into a creek, where it killed small fish for miles, according to the … Continue reading Farm field drainage failure leads to creek contamination, dead fish
Victims, scientists, and researchers in South Dakota call for recognition of climate and land use changes following a devastating flood. The outdated flood mitigation plan led to destructive consequences in McCook Lake, highlighting the need for updated plans and infrastructure to address the increasing frequency and severity of floods. Urban development and changing river flows are contributing factors, requiring updated zoning laws and design standards to mitigate future flood hazards. Continue reading McCook Lake catastrophe shatters complacency around old flood plans
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