Dozens of speakers urged the board to stop permitting lithium battery energy storage systems (BESS) in the county, citing the Moss Landing fire, water and soil contamination risks, and calls for non‑flammable alternatives and more public hearings on siting and safety.

At a Jan. 2 study session, South 32 president Pat Reisner said a single monthly grab sample above the 6 ppb antimony limit was retested and is being addressed with a plant modification; residents and local hydrogeologists pushed for clearer ADEQ reporting, broader monitoring and stronger community protections.

Local residents express fears over water depletion from South 322 Hermosa Mine operations.

County leaders review successful election, budget discussions, and local sports achievements.

Interns emphasize the importance of community involvement in reducing littering in Santa Cruz County.

Students conduct cleanup and education efforts to combat litter and its health impacts.

Interns present media projects and cleanup efforts to promote litter reduction initiative.

South32 reveals plans for local workforce training and environmental monitoring initiatives in Patagonia

Conflicting interests emerge in Phoenix area as tourism and mining plans clash.