Environment Washington’s gray wolf populations are making a strong comeback “Recovery is happening right before our eyes.” The species grew by 20% in WA last year, but advocates warn against declaring victory too early. by Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / April 26, 2024
Environment A decade after the Oso landslide, WA works to improve preparedness The Snohomish County disaster killed 43 residents in 2014. Today, geologists can better help people get out of harm’s way due to boosts in tech and funding. by Tom Banse Washington State Standard / March 20, 2024
News What WA leaders are watching for in the Manuel Ellis police trial Members of law enforcement, community organizers and more weigh in on the trial of three Tacoma officers charged in the 2020 death of Ellis. by Jerry Cornfield & Laurel Demkovich & Grace Deng & Bill Lucia Washington State Standard / October 4, 2023
Politics Housing, homelessness loom large in the minds of Washington voters Tacoma, Spokane and Bellingham each have ballot measures on these issues, and both voters and candidates have cited them as top priorities. by Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / October 31, 2023
News Is housing a form of health care? A Washington program says it is Apple Health and Homes has distributed $41M from Medicaid to shelter and support those with behavioral or other health issues. by Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / September 15, 2023
News ‘A partial solution’: A closer look at the new WA Cares Fund The long-term care tax program has already stoked controversy, with critics saying the $36,500 benefit is too small to be meaningful. by Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / November 23, 2023
Environment Washington cities, counties now required to plan for climate change Starting in 2025, local governments will need to consider emissions and natural disasters in their long-term planning. Some already do. by Laurel Demkovich Washington State Standard / August 8, 2023
Environment A proposed San Juans sanctuary may offer hope for captive orcas — and risks for wild ones Nonprofit advocates think sea pens will improve the retired killer whales' quality of life. SeaWorld vets disagree. by Tom Banse Northwest News Network / July 17, 2019
Environment Salish Sea's 'humpback comeback' is a good sign, but concerns remain More whales mean greater risk of ship strikes and fishing line entanglement. by Tom Banse Northwest News Network / August 16, 2019
Environment These giant rats failed mine-sniffing school. Now they have a new career in Tacoma While their relatives are saving lives around the world, Point Defiance's adorable African giant pouched rats are ambassadors for rodents everywhere. by Tom Banse Northwest News Network / July 24, 2019