Emmy Berger

North Carolina’s hemp industry has largely been unregulated, but that may soon change, and this multi-billion-dollar sector of our state’s economy hangs in the balance. A federal law banning intoxicating hemp products is scheduled to go into effect in November and the General Assembly is considering its own prohibitions. A look at what this may mean for the industry and the 16,000 people working in it.

The General Assembly passed its long-awaited budget last week with bipartisan support — the first in more than two years. The $34 billion plan includes teacher pay raises and additional money for Hurricane Helene recovery, but it also contains a provision that would force Charlotte and other governments to repay money already spent on the rejected I-77 toll lanes.

North Carolina’s outdoor industry continues to grow and contributed nearly $18 billion to the state’s economy in 2024. We explore what’s behind this boom, how to increase accessibility and participation, and practical tips for staying safe outdoors — including how to avoid interfering with wildlife and what to do if you do.

Mosquito-eating bats eat nearly their entire body weight in insects every night, but bats are under threat of extinction. This Halloween season, we look at efforts to reverse the trend.

Mosquitoes — these tiny blood suckers can be annoying and drive you away from enjoying the outdoors. But they can also be dangerous. More than 900 cases of tick- and mosquito-borne illnesses were reported statewide last year, including West Nile Virus. As we head into the peak of mosquito season here, we look at how to protect yourself and what may happen as the climate continues to warm.

Mosquito-eating bats eat nearly their entire body weight in insects every night, but bats are under threat of extinction. We look at efforts to reverse the trend.