VIDEO/AUDIO

Mississippi Timber: Balancing Economic Growth and the Environment

Forests account for 65% of Mississippi’s total land use, generating $12.79 billion in revenue and creating more than 70,000 jobs, according to the state’s Department of Forestry. NewsWatch Ole Miss reporter Cody Farris profiles a family-owned timber company in Greene County, Mississippi, as they balance the need for profits with environmental protection.

Mississippi’s Record Drought Raises Questions

In 2023, the U.S. drought monitor indicated Mississippi experienced some of the driest conditions since 2016. Reporters Celeste Lay and Julieanna Jackson explored the impact of the drought on farmers and the businesses that support them.

Drought affects more than agriculture, but as reporters Olivia Wright and Hallie Grace Withrow discovered some Mississippi communities have yet to feel the impact.

Processor To Plate: Mississippi Seafood Industry Struggles

A combination of drought and extreme weather has led to a dramatic decrease in crawfish availability, impacting the economy and culture in the souther United States. Mississippi State University’s Raylen Ladner explores this issue in this Rising Tides, Rising Temperatures podcast episode.

Solar, Wind Projects Power Energy Efficiency

Fossil fuels, such as coal, petroleum and natural gas have long been the primary sources of power in homes across the U.S. Now, renewable energy is changing the energy landscape in Mississippi. NewsWatch Ole Miss reporter Celeste Lay takes you to Sunflower County where you’ll find the largest solar farm in the state.

Mississippi Agriculture Adapts to Changing Climate

Crop diversity isn’t just about adapting to climate change; it can also help mitigate its impact. Mississippi State University’s Taylor Howard has more in this Rising Tides, Rising Temperatures podcast episode.

Climate Change in Mississippi: A Growing Concern For All

In the aftermath of a catastrophic weather event, a housing crisis often develops. Reporter Celeste lay explores how some of Rolling Fork’s residents are struggling to find a permanent home more than six months after an EF-4 tornado destroyed much of the town.