IndyStar's 'Scrub Hub' wraps up 3 years of answering questions about environmental issues
Three years, 81 editions — and one huge thank you.
Those numbers sum up the first three years of IndyStar's question-and-answer feature Scrub Hub, which debuted August 11, 2020. The thanks go to our readers who've engaged with reporters Sarah Bowman and Karl Schneider to explore a variety of topics about Indiana’s environment.
Now entering a fourth year, the dedicated articles that appear online every other Monday grew from your questions on environmental topics shared via email, voicemail or our Facebook group, The Scrub From IndyStar.
The questions have been profound, insightful and full of one of our most valued traits: curiosity of how the natural world works. As much as we want to show our gratitude for your continued support, we also wanted to highlight some of the work we’ve done in the past year (that’s 27 editions!). It’s never an easy proposition to pick “the best” or “our favorites,” so instead we'll share links to some past Scrub Hubs covering a range of topics:
Creatures of Indiana
Can wildlife crossings save animals from vehicles? Indiana doesn’t have the large animal populations that some other states have, so what’s the best route here?
Are lightning bugs disappearing from Indiana's night skies? It’s a bit complicated considering the different species of fireflies, but overall the populations seem to be dwindling.
How can you stop the invasive Spotted Lanternfly? If you see it, stomp it! At least that's what invasive species specialists recommend.
Alternative energy and its Indiana impacts
How do snow and winter weather impact my solar panels? What are the major factors that impact the efficiency of solar panels?
Why do some wind turbines spin while others don’t? We tell you why and how fast does the wind need to be blowing to push a turbine?
Are green jobs growing for Hoosiers? The expanding renewable energy market is creating new jobs.
Hoosiers looking to make their homes energy efficient
How can the Inflation Reduction Act help Hoosiers save money? There’s a good chunk of money available for energy-saving tax breaks.
Are heat pumps better for the environment and my wallet? Heat pumps are difficult to explain, but proven to save homeowners some money.
How do I spot and avoid solar scams? Keep an eye out for financing schemes and extra fees.
The Scrub Hub: Your questions. Our answers.
Do you have questions about the environment? IndyStar environmental reporters Sarah Bowman and London Gibson want to hear from you.
Gardening for a better environment
Should I consider using rain barrels? Rain barrels can thwart dry spells by saving up to 1,300 gallons during the summer.
Are Indiana homeowners planting trees the wrong way? How do I make sure I’m doing it right? Bonus: Don’t volcano mulch!
How can I attract butterflies to my yard or garden? A good pollinator garden needs good habitat and food sources.
The changing climate affecting Indiana
Is the brain-eating amoeba expanding its range north into Indiana and Midwest? While cases of brain-eating amoeba affecting people are rare, they’re nearly always fatal.
Is climate change making poison ivy even more of a pain in the rash? How much faster is it growing?
What were Indiana’s top carbon emitters in 2022? Three industries topped the list of the state’s largest carbon emitters: electric power production, industry and transportation.
Call IndyStar reporter Sarah Bowman at 317-444-6129 or email at sarah.bowman@indystar.com. Follow her on Twitter and Facebook: @IndyStarSarah. Connect with IndyStar’s environmental reporters: Join The Scrub on Facebook. Karl Schneider is an IndyStar environment reporter. You can reach him at karl.schneider@indystar.com. Follow him on Twitter @karlstartswithk
IndyStar's environmental reporting project is made possible through the generous support of the nonprofit Nina Mason Pulliam Charitable Trust.
This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Scrub Hub: Hoosiers environmental Q&A turns 3
