Environment PFAS in Washington’s well water could make you sick ‘Forever chemicals’ linked to ailments from high cholesterol to cancer are in our clearest aquifers — but steep costs pose cleanup challenges. by Andrew Engelson / February 14, 2024
News Puget Sound transit and riders navigate post-pandemic commutes With more people working in-office, local agencies try to make light-rail and bus services more consistent. But they face staff shortages and delays. by Andrew Engelson / March 22, 2024
News WA’s new drug law could help needle exchanges — or restrict them The possession bill passed this year includes $63M for treatment centers. But it also gives local governments the power to regulate them. by Andrew Engelson / November 2, 2023 / Updated at 5 p.m. on Nov. 7
News High grocery costs challenge Washington families, food banks Nearly 29,000 households in King County don’t have enough income to cover household basics, according to data from the University of Washington. by Andrew Engelson / November 21, 2023
Equity When a Washington woman fought tribal disenrollment, she became a target How a burglary, social media and politics led to the bullying of a Nooksack Tribal councilwoman out of office. by Jane C. Hu High Country News / February 6, 2020
Environment COVID-19 and wildfire smoke are a deadly combo for Seattle With smoke shelters shuttered, public health officials worry thousands could suffer from unhealthy air. by Jane C. Hu High Country News / July 29, 2020
Environment Tribes worry a Canadian mine could poison Washington salmon Across the border in British Columbia's Skagit River headwaters, a proposed open-pit mine has drawn protests from Native tribes, environmentalists and politicians. by Andrew Engelson / February 21, 2020
Environment Coronavirus cuts off a Washington border town from two countries Point Roberts residents used to cross through Canadian land daily. When the pandemic caused the border to close, they found themselves stranded. by Jane C. Hu High Country News / August 11, 2020
News Wilderness rescuers face a busy winter complicated by COVID The pandemic has driven an increase in outdoor activity and rescues, while limiting training and volunteer opportunities. by Jane C. Hu High Country News / November 16, 2020
Environment How COVID reshaped Seattle, season by season Disaster researchers take a Prius-eye view of how COVID-19 is changing the city. by Jane C. Hu High Country News / December 21, 2020