Indigenous Affairs Native nations lead salmon restoration efforts in Columbia Basin The number of returning adult salmon and steelhead has doubled since the 1990s, but is still only halfway to the NWPCC’s goal of 5 million. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Underscore + ICT / February 10, 2025
Indigenous Affairs Cowlitz Tribe youth help lead this year’s First Salmon Ceremony “It’s what we do to thank the salmon for what they give,” said Lydia Hodges, 15, part of the new generation carrying on the sacred ritual. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Underscore + ICT / June 24, 2024
Indigenous Affairs Yakama Nation’s new public safety campus gives justice room to grow The tribal court system, which had occupied a cluster of trailers since the ’50s, plans to add services like a mental health or a veterans court. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Underscore News and ICT / January 9, 2024
Equity Snoqualmie Tribe starts land protection sales tax at Salish Lodge The 2% tax will preserve ancestral sites such as Snoqualmie Falls, and could be a model for other Indigenous nations. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Underscore/ICT / July 17, 2023
News The Washington mental health lifeline made for and by Native people The Native and Strong Lifeline provides connection and culturally specific care to callers in crisis. by Nika Bartoo-Smith Indian Country Today and Underscore News / June 19, 2023
Environment Closing a highway to save Washington salmon Washington state road crews will make large-scale improvements to roads to help promote fish survival. by Eilís O'Neill EarthFix/KUOW / September 13, 2018
Environment Despite climate threats, Seattle's swallowtail butterflies thrive As Seattle summers heat up, swallowtail butterfly sightings have become more common. by Eilís O'Neill EarthFix/KUOW / July 30, 2018
Environment What’s lurking in WA lakes — and should you swim in it? It's hot outside, but toxic algae blooms have some wondering about swimming in local lakes. by Eilís O'Neill EarthFix/KUOW / July 17, 2018
Environment For rural WA kids, asthma is the norm, not the exception UW, along with Yakima Valley Farm Workers’ Clinic, is trying to address uncontrolled asthma in farm worker communities. by Eilís O'Neill EarthFix/KUOW / April 27, 2018
Environment The ‘salmon-safe’ food label — and what it means Ever wonder about that 'salmon-safe' label on your eggs, wine and cheese? by Eilís O'Neill EarthFix/KUOW / April 23, 2018