Rural Health
News by Topic: Environmental health
Nov 29, 2023 - Highlights the potential connection between environmental contaminants in water and health, particularly pediatric cancer, in rural Nebraska and other parts of the Midwest. Discusses the current standard for nitrates, efforts to re-evaluate the standard, and the potential impact on rural communities.
Source: WVPE
Nov 3, 2023 - Notice from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) amending the September 14, 2023, notice inviting applications for loans and grants under the Rural Economic Development Loan and Grant (REDLG) Programs for fiscal year 2024. This notice adds a third option to request Priority Points under the Addressing Climate Change and Environmental Justice category. USDA Rural Development will work with any applicants who have previously applied for FY 2024 funding to ensure they have the opportunity to utilize this option.
Source: Federal Register
RBS: Notice of Solicitation of Applications for the Intermediary Relending Program for Fiscal Year 2024; Correction
Federal Register
Nov 3, 2023 - Notice from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Rural Business-Cooperative Service (RBS) amending the September 14, 2023, notice inviting applications for the Intermediary Relending Program (IRP) for fiscal year 2024. This notice adds a third option to request Priority Points under the Addressing Climate Change and Environmental Justice category. USDA Rural Development will work with any applicants who have previously applied for FY 2024 funding to ensure they have the opportunity to utilize this option.
Source: Federal Register
Oct 31, 2023 - Announcement of funding for rural-related investments in the areas of agriculture and climate, infrastructure, jobs and economic development, high-speed internet, and energy. Part of the Administration's Investing in America agenda.
Source: The White House
Oct 24, 2023 - Highlights an Iowan environmental health officer's efforts to test and treat private well water using government funding. States that these wells are at risk of contamination from nearby farms and industrial sites, putting well water users at risk of long-term health issues. Notes that potentially more than one-fifth of private wells are contaminated, but most are not required to receive regular testing.
Source: KFF Health News, USA Today
Oct 13, 2023 - Highlights disparities in waste water and sanitation for Black communities in rural AL. Discusses how a lack of municipal sewage treatment facilities and the prevalence of old, broken, and leaking septic systems has created a health issue for rural Black residents of Lowndes County.
Source: NPR