Public News Service

Tennessee residents typically spend around $177 per month on electric bills, which amounts to an annual expenditure of $2,124. (ABCDstock/Adobe Stock)

TN bill would boost public's role in TVA decision-making process

Tennesseans want more say in how the Tennessee Valley Authority plans for their future electricity needs and a bill now in Congress could give the pub…

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency expects by the autumn of 2024 to develop national recommended ambient water quality criteria for PFAS to protect aquatic life and human health. (Eifel Kreutz/Adobe Stock)

Report: PFAS chemicals contaminate TN rivers, lakes

The latest research reveals alarming levels of contamination in northeastern Tennessee waterways, by the chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl …

The latest drinking water testing (from August 2022) in Nashville by Metro Water Services didn't show any reportable levels of the six types of PFAS that EPA is planning to regulate. (Elena Kharichkina/Adobe Stock)

Officials Take Comment on Tennessee Drinking Water Cleanup

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is accepting public comments on its proposed new drinking water regulations. The agency announced plans to …

Around 58% of waterways were rated poor for conditions related to chemical stressors such as phosphorus, nitrogen, salinity and acidification, according to the latest assessment of the nation's rivers and streams by the Environmental Protection Agency. (Adobe Stock)

Experts to Gather in TN at First National Stream-Restoration Conference

Water experts will gather next week in Nashville to talk about the state of stream restoration, at the first national stream restoration conference…

Manufacturing, processing and mining waste often are dumped on the sites that end up being listed for Superfund cleanup. (Flickr)

EPA Green-Lights Cleanup of TN Superfund Site

Tennessee soon will receive federal funding to clean up a 260-acre toxic-waste site in Shelby County. The Environmental Protection Agency recently …

There are an estimated 50 billion pieces of litter on roadways nationwide, according to Keep America Beautiful. (Adobe Stock)

TN to Embark on Litter Pollution Study

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Plastic bottles and cans line many of the state's roadways and rivers, and now the state is conducting a large research study to …

Flying Asian carp can jump out of the water and cause boating accidents. (Adobe Stock)

Asian Carp Barriers to be Erected on Tennessee, Cumberland Rivers

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- As the state continues its battle against invasive Asian carp, environmentalists say plans to erect new barriers to stop the carp …

Asian carp are filter feeders, meaning they consume the base of the aquatic food chain, starving out and outcompeting native fish species. (Adobe Stock)

Congress OKs $25 Million to Fight Asian Carp

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- Tennessee will receive federal funding to fight Asian carp as part of a $25 million budget appropriation recently passed by …

The Tennessee, Cumberland and Mississippi rivers are the three longest waterways running through Tennessee. (Adobe Stock)<br /><br />

Smaller TN Waterways Lose Protection Under New EPA Rule

NASHVILLE, Tenn. -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has finalized a new rule, saying it clarifies which types of waterways are protected …

The alligator snapping turtle is one of Tennessee�s at-risk species, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. (Adobe Stock)<br />

Proposal Would Boost Funding for Protecting TN Fish, Wildlife

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Congress is considering a bill that would direct nearly $1.4 billion to state fish and wildlife agencies. Introduced by …

A raccoon gnaws on a red plastic cup. Tennesseans have submitted hundreds of photos of trash across the state as part of a litter awareness campaign. (Eddie Johnson/Tenn. Wildlife Federation)

Tennesseans Snap Photos of Trash for Litter Awareness Campaign

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A new campaign aims to raise awareness of Tennessee's trash problem. Hundreds of people have sent photos of litter in …

Lake sturgeon are migratory fish, traveling an average of 62 miles to spawn. (Vladimir Wrangel/Adobe Stock)

Conservationists Release Endangered Sturgeon Into Tennessee River

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Scientists from the Tennessee Aquarium Conservation Institute and the state Wildlife Resources Agency have released 89 …

Some are questioning the Environmental Protection Agency's plans to relax pollution standards for coal plants. Ten years ago, a leak at Tennessee's Kingston Fossil Plant left 30 people dead and poisoned more than 250. (Brian Stansberry/Wikipedia)

Group Worries about Future Coal-Ash Protections

KENSINGTON, Tenn. - Not long after the 10-year anniversary of the largest coal-ash spill in U.S. history, parents across Tennessee are among those …

The Tennessee Aquarium has released 280 juvenile brook trout into Little Stony Creek, which flows through the Cherokee National Forest. (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service)

Funds Flow for Native Tennessee Trout Restoration

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Protecting the native brook trout population is an upstream battle for Tennessee conservation groups. But things are …

Coal-ash waste includes dangerous toxins that threaten public health. (Kate Ausburn/Flickr)

Trump EPA Weakens Coal-Ash Waste Protections

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Environmental groups in Tennessee are figuring out their next move after the Trump Administration this week rolled back some …

Many of the EPA regulations that Scott Pruitt scrapped or delayed as EPA administrator had not yet taken effect before his resignation. (Wikimedia Commons)

Government Watchdog Groups: Pruitt's EPA Exit "Long Overdue"

WASHINGTON – After allegedly overspending on everything from pens to lavish trips and accepting questionable deals from lobbyists, government …

After the Kingston coal ash slurry spill, the Tennessee Valley Authority moved to dry storage of their coal ash. (Appalachian Voices)

EPA Limits Scientific Studies as It Considers Reducing Coal-Ash Rules

KINGSTON, Tenn. — Tennessee knows more than most states the impact coal ash can have on a community - having been home to a coal fly ash slurry …

The EPA tested for PFAS between 2013 and 2016, but since its program ended, there is no ongoing nationwide testing of drinking water for those chemicals. (Joe Shlabotnik/Flickr)

What's In Your Water? Report Finds Toxic Chemicals Spreading

MURFREESBORO, Tenn. - Chemical compounds often used to make carpets, clothing and cookware are spreading into the country's water supply, including …

According to a new report by Food and Water Watch, 70 percent of water bottles aren't recycled. (Mr.TinDC/Flickr)

Report Charges Price Gouging by Bottled-Water Companies

NASHVILLE, Tenn. — Cases of water bottles can be found cheap at big box stores, and that's prompting people to buy them as routinely as milk …

The Tennessee Wilderness Act is now part of the Federal Land Mangement Act of 2017 and would protect almost 20,000 acres in the Cherokee National Forest. (John Iwanski/Flickr)

Tennessee Wilderness Act Passes Hurdle in Congress

ELIZABETHTON, Tenn. -- Tennessee is one step closer to protecting nearly 20,000 acres of public land in the Cherokee National Forest in the …

Hurricane Harvey flooded this parking garage in Houston, and rain from the storm's remnants is expected to hit Tennessee today. (R. Crap Mariner/Flickr)

TVA Prepares for Rain from Harvey as Storm Moves North

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Parts of middle and western Tennessee are waking up to heavy rain Thursday, as the remnants of Tropical Storm Harvey move …

The Regulatory Accountability Act could increase consumer exposure to known toxins, say opponents. (John Morgan/flickr.com)

Tennessee Consumer Safety Could Be at Risk, Bill's Opponents Say

MEMPHIS, Tenn. – The Regulatory Accountability Act (S-951) sounds innocuous enough, but consumer and public-health advocates say it's anything …

Environmentalists say Trump's first 100 days in office are

Trump's First 100 Days Creating Long Haul for Environment Say Advocates

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Coming on the heels of his 100th day in office, President Trump says his administration has "brought profound change to …

Scenes from Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga as well as interviews from experts involved with the research.

Study: Southeast Home to "Underwater Rainforest"

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. – Tennessee and the rest of the Southeast are home to thousands of aquatic species, many of which are unique to the region…

The Bellefonte Nuclear Generating Station in Hollywood, Ala., was never completed, and now the TVA this week at its board meeting is considering the sale of the land. (TVA)

TVA Considers Sale of Tennessee River Waterfront

BUCHANAN, Tenn. - The future of a 1,600-acre site on the Tennessee River could be decided this week. The Tennessee Valley Authority board of …

Tennessee's high rate of obesity is partially attributed to its traditional Southern fried and rich foods. (gracey/morguefile.com)

Tennessee Cities Top List: "Fattest Cities in America"

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - About one in three Tennesseans is classified as obese and a report released by survey company WalletHub names four Tennessee …

The Tennessee Wilderness Act of 2016 would offer protection to more than 7,000 acres of land in Carter, Johnson, Washington and Unicoi Counties. (Bill Hodge)

Tennessee Land Offered Protection by Bill in Congress

UNICOI, Tenn. – More than 7,000 acres of some of Tennessee's pristine wilderness is offered protection in legislation introduced in the U.S…

There is a bi-partisan bill expected to be introduced to the full U.S. Senate that would offer improvements to school lunches and breakfasts. (anitapeppers/morguefile.com)

Federal Bill Offers Improvement for TN School Lunches

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Washington is closed for business this week as the nation's capital digs out from a record-setting snowstorm. But before lawmakers …

Experts say successful New Year's resolutions mean working to create long-term, healthy habits instead of making short-term, drastic changes. (Pippalou/morguefile)

Resolve to Make New Habits, Not Lose Bad Ones

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Losing weight is the number one New Year's resolution, according to the Statistic Brain Research Institute. But it's estimated …

Inland flooding and extreme heat are among the concerns listed in a report which gives the state a

TN Faces Longterm Threat of Inland Flooding

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - Inland flooding poses the greatest risk to the Volunteer State in future years and earned the state a "D" for preparedness against …

The cooling towers of Watts Bar 1, which was completed in 1996. TVA recently received the operating license for Watts Bar 2. Credit: TVA.

Concern Over Old Design of New TVA Nuclear Plant

SPRING CITY, Tenn. – A Tennessee nuclear reactor more than 40 years in the making now has its operating license from the U.S. Nuclear …

The Brewly Noted Beer Trail features nine breweries in northeast Tennessee and southwest Virginia, and encourages people to visit all breweries on the trail. Pictured here is Ken Monyak (left) of Bristol Brewery and Andrew Felty (right) of the Brewly Noted Beer Trail. Credit: Rob King

Tennessee Economic Development "Hopping" on Craft Beer Wagon

KINGSPORT, Tenn. - Tennessee is home to an increasing number of craft breweries, with more opening every month across the state. While craft beer …

The Nuclear Regulatory Commission opted to cancel the cancer study of communities near U.S. nuclear facilities. Credit: public domain/wikimedia commons

Health Study of Tennessee Nuclear Fuel Plant Halted by Feds

ERWIN, Tenn. – The federal government is canceling a study of cancer risks near U.S. nuclear facilities, including Nuclear Fuel Services (NFS) …

A National Wildlife Federation poll shows hunters and anglers are willing to put aside their political differences in support of greater EPA protections for clean water, including small headwaters and wetlands. Photo credit: Shaun Quinlan/Morguefile.

Hunters, Anglers Support EPA Clean Water Policy

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Over half of Tennessee residents take part in outdoor recreation each year, according to the Outdoor Industry Association…

PHOTO: The Holston River is listed as the third

Two Tennessee Rivers Listed as "Most Endangered for 2015"

KINGSPORT, Tenn. - Tennessee is the only state in the nation to have two rivers listed as "endangered" by the environmental group American Rivers…

Photo: The American Heart Association is reminding people to take steps to improve their heart health this Valentine's Day, including improving their diet and increasing exercise. Photo credit: AHA

Have a Heart: A Valentine to Your Vital Organ

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Hearts are everywhere this week as Americans prepare to celebrate a holiday that is projected to gross a record-setting $18.9 …

PHOTO: Concerns are being raised all along the route over plans to repurpose a pipeline running from the Gulf Coast to the Northeast. Photo credit: Roy Luck

Opposition Mounts to Tennessee Gas Pipeline Conversion

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - Concerns are being raised by citizens and groups all along the route over plans to re-purpose the Tennessee Gas Pipeline…

PHOTO: As more farmers across the state and the country turn to cover crops, the latest trend of mixing species can have an even greater impact. Photo credit: Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Farmers Starting to Mix It Up: Cover Crop "Cocktails"

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The use of cover crops is having positive effects on the environment and also on the bottom line for farmers. It appears that the …

PHOTO: A lot of progress has been made in waste reduction since the first America Recycles Day in 1997, but much work remains, with only about one-third of trash in the U.S. recycled. Photo credit: M. Glasgow.

America Recycles Day: Keeping Tennessee Beautiful

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – This is America Recycles Day and, while there is much still to do to keep more trash out of landfills, there has been a …

PHOTO: The Tennessee Wilderness Act seeks to permanently protect 20,000 acres of the Cherokee National Forest and add the first new wilderness area in Tennessee in more than a quarter-century. Photo credit: Chris M. Morris

A Push for New Tennessee Wilderness Act on 29th Anniversary

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - With Congress back in session this week, a renewed push is on for passage of a new Tennessee Wilderness Act. Today marks the 29th …

PHOTO: An increase in fertilizer runoff from agriculture, along with more severe weather is leading to a larger number of reports of toxic algae blooms in the United States. The algae can make people ill and kill animals or pets. CREDIT: Ben Townsend

Report: Toxic Algae Problems More Common Across Nation

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – A growing scourge of harmful algae blooms is affecting lakes across the nation, according to a new analysis by the National …

PHOTO: Those who will be celebrating July 4th with outdoor activities can expect to have plenty of company in the form of mosquitoes. Credit: Dr. Relling.

Mosquitoes to Join Tennesseans at July 4th Activities

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. - Plenty of unwelcome guests are expected to join Tennesseans this weekend as they celebrate the July Fourth weekend with various …

PHOTO: The Tennessee Wilderness Act would protect 20,000 acres in the Cherokee National Forest and create the state's first new wilderness area since 1986. CREDIT: Aaron Headley

Tennessee Celebrates Earth Day With Push for Wilderness Act

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – This coming Monday will mark the 43rd anniversary of Earth Day, and a number of events are planned across Tennessee in the …

PHOTO: More and more these days, women are getting involved in outdoor recreation. Charity Rutter with R & R Fly Fishing will lead a clinic this month in conjunction with Tennessee Wild. Photo credit: Charity Rutter

Tennessee Outdoor Fun: Fly Fishing to Snorkeling

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - The nation just went through some of the toughest economic times in decades, but that didn't stop Americans from heading to the …

PHOTO: Trial is set to begin today in the civil case against BP for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. This photo was taken 2 years after the spill and environmentalists say the long-term impact is still unknown. CREDIT: Craig Guillot/NWF

Civil Trial Begins Today for BP's Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - There is a renewed call to make sure BP is held accountable, as the civil trial for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill disaster of 201…

PHOTO: It's estimated that the outdoor recreation industry in Tennessee generates $8.2-billion in consumer spending and supports 83,000 jobs. CREDIT: Ron Cogswell

Outdoor Recreation: A Boost To the Tennessee Economy

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - There are big bucks in outdoor recreation for the state of Tennessee. The Outdoor Industry Association has totaled up the …

PHOTO: Plans for road construction have landed Goforth Creek Canyon on this year's list of the most endangered places in the South. CREDIT: Sam Evans SELC

Goforth Creek Canyon: A Most Endangered Place

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - A new list of the top 10 places in the South that are facing immediate and potentially irreparable threats includes two areas of …

PHOTO: The Basel Action Network estimates 75 percent of the electronic waste that arrives in Lagos, Nigeria, is not reusable. BAN says too often, as in this photo, it ends up being dumped. Courtesy BAN.

Out with the Old: Recycling TVs, Laptops, Cell Phones...

NASHVILLE, Tenn. - “Out with the old, in with the new”' takes on a whole new meaning when the topic is electronic gear. Laptops…

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TN: Water