Permian Basin Community Seeks Fix for Radium in Its Drinking Water
Utilities serving thousands of Texans exceed legal limits for radium.
Environment
A New Generation of Industries Emerges in Texas from Federal Push for Mining Revival
The United States doesn’t produce the minerals and metals needed for renewable energy, microchips, or military technology. Authorities want to change that as quickly as possible.
Where the Water Reached
One photographer’s view of the July 4th Hill Country flood, the state’s deadliest in more than a century
Editor’s Letter: Introducing Our May/June 2025 Issue
A note from the editor-in-chief
Corpus Christi Launches Emergency Water Projects as Reservoirs Dwindle and Industrial Demand Grows
This Texas city has struggled to develop a seawater desalination plant, but its efforts have lagged as thirsty industries arrive and drought persists.
Texas Uranium Mining Portends Nuclear Revival
State leaders want nuclear reactors to provide power to large industrial facilities. But South Texas locals worry that a uranium boom could affect their groundwater.
How Texas Diminished a Once-Rigorous Air Pollution Monitoring Team
Former employees say the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality weakened the unit in the years following the onset of the fracking boom. The operation never returned to what it was before.
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A Texas Pipeline Giant Is Backing a Regulatory Disaster
Energy Transfer owns the pipeline that caught fire recently near Houston, and it’s setting another fire at the National Labor Relations Board with the help of right-wing jurists.
Confessions of a Beaumont Vegan
The only justification for animal suffering is that it is necessary or doesn’t matter. I have concluded it is not necessary and does matter.
How Can You Tell If Soil Is Healthy? Just Listen to It.
First-of-its-kind research shows how "ecoacoustics" can help scientists monitor the health of soils—using underground critter concerts.