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
Growth Newcomers fleeing expensive housing are finding it again in Spokane. Now they want protections A slate of measures intended to support low-income residents and reduce homelessness awaits a vote by the city council. by Carl Segerstrom High Country News / January 14, 2020
Environment Amid pandemic meat shortage, a stampede for local beef Washington's small slaughterhouses see a boom as COVID hits big meat processors. Will it last? by Carl Segerstrom High Country News / May 26, 2020
Politics WA prison officials push back on bill to limit solitary confinement Lawmakers and the Department of Corrections agree that the practice is harmful, but the latter balked at the proposed regulations by Mari Kanagy / February 24, 2022
Politics WA proposed budget funds stipends to attract low-income board members $50,000 is allocated for constituents to help shape boards and commissions with their lived experiences. by Mari Kanagy / February 18, 2022
Politics Bill aims to boost incentives for filming in Washington If 'Twilight' is set in Washington, it should have been shot in Washington, legislators say. by Mari Kanagy / February 7, 2022
Environment WA's endangered pygmy rabbits bounce back from the brink Recovering the endangered rabbits will test society’s willingness to let nature reclaim a landscape. by Carl Segerstrom High Country News / June 10, 2019
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