The Rural Blog

A digest of events, trends, issues, ideas and journalism from and about rural America, by the Institute for Rural Journalism, based at the University of Kentucky. Links may expire, require subscription or go behind pay walls. Please send news and knowledge you think would be useful to benjy.hamm@uky.edu.

The Rural Blog

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Silicone wristbands can monitor exposure to 'forever chemicals' over time

Is organic farming possible for large agricultural operations? In Iowa, it has been successful, and the trend is growing.

As seasons change, mosquitoes will still be busy spreading deadly diseases. Awareness and precautions can help.

A new EPA app helps journalists who are looking for local water quality data that's easy to understand and share

Tips for reporting on 'forever chemical' can make a tricky job easier

Colon cancer is up among young adults; many don't think they're susceptible to it, and thus don't get screened for it

Railroad employee, working solo, got warnings but says he was too busy to notice before derailment; safety bill stalls

International group of scientists says Earth is in danger zone for 7 of 8 ecological measures, almost there on air pollution

Shampoos, cleaners, and mothballs all have volatile organic compounds; study sees need for 'national action' for safety

N.C. reporters and a freelancer for a nonprofit win this year's Thomas Stokes Award for energy and environment reporting

Experts: Soap, water again 'sufficient for regular cleaning'

Railroad accidents have been increasing, especially at Norfolk Southern, but have decreased along some big lines

Derailments and explosions aren't only worries for railroads' neighbors; noise and vibrations can cause health issues

'Boot camp' for cities under 150,000 is aimed at helping them win infrastructure grants; second round starts in April

Repurposing sewage can be environmentally friendly, but it's objectionable to some, and has to be carefully managed

Collected research on health effects of fracking prompts physicians and advocates to call for stricter regulations

'There's no nitrogen police.' When farming regulation fails to protect our water

3M factory creates Post-It adhesives and harmful PFAS chemicals, tainting drinking water in the area, EPA says

So many dairy farmers getting paid for 'forever chemicals', USDA is short of money, and other sectors may need it

Roundup maker is on courtroom winning streak, giving it leverage as it tries to resolve tens of thousands of claims