Beat Update Week 3

EPA to Soon Decide on Mountaintop-Mining Permits
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is weighing whether or not to allow mountaintop -mining companies to dispose of debris in neighboring valleys. "Mountain-toping" is a controversial mining practice cited for causing a dead zone in the Gulf of Mexico. EPA administrator Lisa Jackson's possible decision to ban the practice could significantly limit coal mining in the Appalachian Mountains.

Congress' Approach to Energy Research: There's No Place Like Home
-Potential Story Idea: Congress earmarked $75.2 million for research at a handful of public universities, including Washington State University. An investigation into which Washington congressman designated the funds for WSU would be pertinent for students wanting to understand how public policy is shaped.