environment

A new study published last week shows Earth’s ecosystems are fast losing their ability to soak up extra carbon from the atmosphere. Scientists collected data about how plants take up carbon all over the globe and found the warming planet could reach a critical tipping point in the next two or three decades, when many ecosystems no longer act as “sinks” for carbon and become sources instead. KNAU’s Melissa Sevigny spoke with lead author Katharyn Duffy of Northern Arizona University about her findings.

A tribal group in Arizona has filed a lien and temporary restraining order to try to block a federal land exchange. They say a proposed copper mine threatens a sacred site on the Tonto National Forest. KNAU’s Ryan Heinsius reports.

The U.S. Forest Service has released a long-awaited management plan for Fossil Creek in central Arizona, a popular recreation site which is home to many rare and threatened species. KNAU’s Melissa Sevigny reports.

Friday morning the three smokestacks at the now-closed Navajo Generating Station will be demolished. It marks an end to the most striking visual reminder of coal power generation in the area. KNAU’s Ryan Heinsius reports.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has determined the monarch butterfly merits protection under the Endangered Species Act, but it won’t be listed immediately. KNAU’s Melissa Sevigny reports.

A controversial federal land exchange to build a copper mine on the Tonto National Forest could take place a year ahead of schedule. It’s one of several expected federal acts during the final weeks of the Trump administration. KNAU’s Ryan Heinsius reports.