The IMPACT

A dispute over the water rights controlled by a soon to be shuttered power plant highlight the competing needs of at-risk fish and growing communities. Interviews: Centralia Public Works Manager Kim Ashmore and Earthjustice Attorney Janette Brimmer.

An overview of 2023 highway fatality trends with Washington Traffic Safety Commission Director Shelly Baldwin. Plus, a look at new legislation that expands the authority of local governments to use ticketing cameras to regulate intersections and enforce speed limits.

Ten years after the first charter school in Washington opened its doors in Seattle, a look at the tumultuous early steps and the most recent report card for charters. Guest: Jessica de Barros, Executive Director of the Washington Charter School Commission

An election focused panel discussion covering the contests to watch, the implications of redistricting, a wave of retirements, and a slate of ballot initiatives. Guests: Paul Queary, The Washington Observer and Jerry Cornfield, the Washington State Standard

A one-on-one sit down with Assistant Secretary Steve Nevey, the new head of Washington State Ferries, about his plans for the nation's largest ferry fleet and a system struggling with limited staff, mechanical problems, and construction delays for new ferries.

A detailed look at the forest wrecking caterpillars behind an emergency eradication campaign. Then a broad overview of efforts to stop invasive threats of all shapes and sizes, from plants that can cause serious sunburns to mussels that create a razor sharp blanket of shells. Q&A with Sven Spichiger, Pest Program Manager, Plant Protection Division, Washington State Department of Agriculture & Stephanie Helms, Executive Coordinator for the Washington State Invasive Species Council.

Why hospitals are hemorrhaging money, the Medicaid/long-term care conundrum, the consolidation debate, and the implications for healthcare delivery in Washington. Guest: Cassie Sauer, President and CEO of the Washington State Hospital Association

Are gray wolves heading to your neck of the woods? We dig into the latest numbers and dispersal trends for Washington's growing gray wolf population. Plus, a look at the federal government's plan to reintroduce grizzly bears to the North Cascades. Guest: Julie Smith, WDFW Endangered Species Recovery Section Manager

Inflation and job market trends in 2024. Q&A with Chief Labor Economist for the Employment Security Department, Anneliese Vance-Sherman.

What toxic chemicals are hiding in your household products? What about your car? A look at the state's efforts to reduce or eliminate high concern chemicals in consumer goods and the Safer Products for Washington Program. Guest: Marissa Smith, Senior Regulatory Toxicologist, Washington State Department of Ecology.