The Blue Ridge Mountains and the coast of Virginia are home to quite a few state and federal endangered species, such as the Shenandoah salamander, the bog turtle, Carolina northern flying squirrel, and several sea turtles.  The habitats for these species and other important species of concern in the mountains and along the coast are severely threatened.  These threats include development, poor water quality, invasive species, etc.  Another significant threat, even where land may be protected through protected area designations, is climate change.  Warming temperatures and sea level rise could decimate these populations, especially ones that will not be able to migrate to new areas or are not found in other regions, such as the Shenandoah salamander.

It is important to help protect species that we quickly recognize as endangered species; however, there is much we can do in our own backyard.   First, learn about what species are endangered and threatened in your state and your region; then look at what local groups are helping to do to protect what is important in your area.  You could become a member or give a donation, but you could also look for volunteer opportunities to restore habitat or teach others about endangered species.

For more information on species in Virginia and climate change, please visit: www.bewildvirginia.org

Even worse, the bill basically restricts state officials from using standard water quality testing – the Director cannot do standard toxicity testing on pollution discharges that are not already known to be toxic. This will have serious ramifications for human health and our natural resources in the state.

As was documented by the journal Science last year, mountain top removal extraction for coal involves clear cutting forests, stripping top soil, and disposing the “mine spoil” into adjacent streams. Not only does this have major human health implications, but the tons of heavy metals poured into Virginia’s streams will put Virginia’s cherished fish and wildlife heritage in jeopardy. Southwestern Virginia is a paradise for hunter and anglers, especially trout fishing. Yet, the General Assembly in Virginia has moved to weaken protection for our valued resources.

It is amazing mountain top removal is still implemented and even given a green light by the legislature as is destroys so much more than it produces.

Click here for more information:  http://wiseenergyforvirginia.org/accountability/