Investigations New Washington energy chair’s industry ties raise ethics questions Former energy consultant Kurt Beckett now heads the agency tasked with permitting his ex-clients’ wind and solar plants. by Brandon Block / April 30, 2025
Environment Podcast | It's not easy going green A new Northwest Reports series digs into the tensions, backlash and bureaucracy around building wind and solar energy facilities in Washington. by Sara Bernard & Maleeha Syed & Brandon Block / March 26, 2025
Investigations The obscure state agency that referees WA’s green energy battles The Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council has power to overrule local zoning laws – putting it at the center of a backlash to renewable energy. by Brandon Block / March 4, 2025
Investigations Washington counties, tribes get more than $110M in federal land aid A small part of the American Rescue Plan provides direct, flexible dollars to compensate for untaxable national parks or other federally owned lands. by Brandon Block / June 13, 2023 / Updated at 12:15 p.m.
News Bisected by highways, a Spokane neighborhood shapes what's left The final stretch of North Spokane Corridor construction reopens old wounds in East Central — and sparks a pilot program to address historical damage. by Brandon Block / August 8, 2022
Environment The San Juans are GMO-free. Is Washington next? Members of GMO-Free San Juans celebrate their win at the ballot box. From left, Ken Akopiantz, Council member Jamie Stephens and Marney Reynolds. by Amy Pennington / January 22, 2013
Culture Storefront mushroom farm opens in Pioneer Square [storefront] Olson Kundig Architects, home to the Mushroom Farm by Amy Pennington / February 28, 2012
Culture Winter eating: beyond kale sandwiches Rainbow chard grows all winter in the Northwest and can be used liberally in omelets, pastries, stirfries and more. by Amy Pennington / December 28, 2011
Culture Best of 2011: Farmers to Monsanto: Save our seeds Four generations of Robinettes on Lazy R Ranch. Maurice Robinette is top right. by Amy Pennington / December 23, 2011
Culture The hidden savings in organic meat Forget the well-being of chickens. Sustainable meat keeps you (and everyone else) healthy. Why and how to eat organic, grassfed meat without breaking the bank. by Amy Pennington / November 13, 2011