THE DIRT is a weekly look at some of the most pressing outdoor news issues from around the Blue Ridge and Beyond.
President Obama Announces Clean Power Plan
On August 3rd the United States Environmental Protection Agency released the final version of its Clean Power Plan. The plan marks the first ever national rule limiting the amount of carbon pollution that power plants can expel into the atmosphere. The aim of the plan is to protect public health while simulatenoutly curbing climate disruption.
“Today’s announcement marks a critical opportunity to shift toward cleaner, more sustainable ways to power our lives and in turn create a major economic boost to our region,” said Tom Cormons, Executive Director of Appalachian Voices, an environmental advocacy group based in Boone, North Carolina. “Tens of thousands of clean energy jobs are already a key part of North Carolina’s economy. Not only are the Clean Power Plan’s goals for North Carolina achievable, but we’re well on our way to reaching them.”
Pisgah Wildfire Expands to 900 Acres
A wildfire burning in the Pisgah National Forest of Western North Carolina has expanded to 900 acres and is expected to continue growing. According to the U.S. Forest Service, the fire has continued to build despite a recent inch of rainfall. The fire was first reported on July 17 in an area known as Bald Knob just north of Lake James in McDowell County, North Carolina. Firefighters are actively working to contain the blaze. Learn more here.
Man Claims to Have Spotted Bigfoot in Western North Carolina
Eric Walters was staying in a cabin outside of Asheville, North Carolina when he reported to ABC 11 that he had an encounter with the legendary Bigfoot. Walters was walking his dog when he made this video which features a figure he claims is the elusive upright primate known as sasqautch.
Beyond the Blue Ridge: Man Killed by Grizzly in Yellowstone
A Yellowstone National Park employee is dead after a run in with a sow grizzly and her cubs on a popular hiking trail near the Lake Yellowstone Village. The Elephant Back loop trail, the trail where the attack occurred, is popular among tourists and employees in the Lake Yellowstone area of Yellowstone National Park. Learn more here.
