A source of between a quarter to one third of the irrigation water used across eastern Washington is shrinking right beneath our feet, according to recent research conducted by Washington State University.
The incomprehensible challenge is how to generate enough greenhouse gas-free electricity for our growing demands without nuclear power production and by taking out major hydropower projects.
Nuclear proponents acknowledge that not all tribes are necessarily on board with SMR development in the region. But they added that the ability for the tribes to achieve other environmental goals, such as removal of the power-generating Snake River dams, could be facilitated by SMRs coming online.
Local government officials hope a $1.2 million federal grant will lead to the revitalization of vacant lots and dilapidated buildings in areas across the Mid-Columbia.
These Pasco hay farmers diversified their farm 20 years and now grow thousands of ornamental trees for landscapers, contractors, nurseries and retail customers.
The Tri-Cities is home to two local renewable natural gases projects, with a third one expected to come online later this summer. Already the first two projects, which started up a little over a year ago, have generated enough power to meet the needs of thousands of homes.
The latest state salmon report highlights some bright spots in salmon and steelhead populations, and local officials hope it helps initiate conversations that lead to a more unified and broad approach to recovery efforts.
Lawsuits challenging the decision by former Gov. Jay Inslee and a state agency to site a wind energy facility in the Horse Heaven Hills are headed to the Washington Supreme Court.
As energy demand continues to grow, state officials are hoping those interested in building and operating large-scale carbon-free power sources will take advantage of some legwork done ahead of time.
