Feds Award Millions for Environmental Projects

June 22, 2011–There is local news in these USDA and USFWS grants. These on-the-ground projects involve specific groups and individuals, offering prime examples of programs you can investigate to see whether federal tax dollars are being effectively and efficiently spent.

Parties Near Deal on Endangered Species Listing Speed-Up?

May 25, 2011–While it's not a done deal, the US Fish and Wildlife Service and WildEarth Guardians have agreed on a list of 251 species that warrant the most immediate attention. Not all environmental groups support the choices, though.

Report: Assessing Public Lands and Survival of Birds

May 25, 2011–Prepared by a large coalition of government agencies and NGOs, the report generally focuses on the condition of bird species in each of the broad habitat types, as well as the roles of various federal and state agencies and the relationships of species survival on public vs. private lands.

The Lizard King: The True Crimes and Passions of the World's Greatest Reptile Smugglers

April 15, 2011–

Local Hunting, Fishing, and Recreation Projects Get Funded

March 2, 2011–States and territories have just been allocated about three-quarters of a billion dollars for their use in building facilities, providing services, and conducting planning and research related to fishing, hunting, wildlife conservation, and recreational opportunities. This is a gold mine for local environmental stories.

Governments and NGOs Band Together To Help Turtles

February 16, 2011–2011 is the "Year of the Turtle," orchestrated by Partners in Amphibian and Reptile Conservation. A USA Turtle Mapping Project and other resources offer opportunities to cover turtle declines and related issues.

Oyster Populations Have Plummeted in US and Globally

February 16, 2011–Down about 85% from their levels around 130 years ago, according to researchers from the US, China, Italy, Uruguay, and Australia, the decimation of native oysters — a contributor to healthy ecosystems and an indicator of ecosystem health — has largely been caused by overharvesting, disease, and introduction of exotic species.

Private Forest Development Can Affect Thousands of At-Risk Species

February 2, 2011–A US Forest Service report indicates 4,600+ threatened species live in more than 90% of the country’s watersheds, discusses problems as well as a number of plausible solutions, and includes several maps that allow you to quickly determine if at-risk species are in your audience area.

SEJ Launches New Diversity Task Force To Promote Discussion, Diversity

January 15, 2011–

Small, Sometimes Invisible Invaders Draw Increasing Attention

December 22, 2010–Two recent studies — one examining problems in urban and natural forests, and the other on microbial pests in various settings — reveal the latest knowledge on insect and microscopic invasive species.