Images by Chris Begley

The 8th episode of RISE focuses on a proposed US Forest Service logging project in the Jellicos, part of the Cumberland Mountains in the Daniel Boone National Forest on the Kentucky-Tennessee border. As proposed, the controversial project would clear cut stands of old-growth trees on 10,000 acres over 40 years. With white oak in heavy demand from a rapidly expanding Bourbon industry and climate change underscoring the ability of trees to absorb and store co2, the project pits timber interests against forest preservation activists. Presenting voices of support and opposition, this episode highlights the issues prior to a U.S. Forest Service public comment period in late summer.

Letters of opposition and support 

 About the Series

RISE is a documentary series which airs periodically as part of 88.9 WEKU’s Eastern Standard weekly radio show/podcast. It came about in response to unprecedented flooding experienced by many southeastern Kentucky communities in July of 2022. The first six episodes, which aired for six consecutive weeks, explored what contributed to the disaster, how communities responded and the leadership, programs and resources needed to address the challenges and opportunities ahead. 

The RISE series is produced by a team of reporters, producers, and external collaborators, including Dynamix Productions in Lexington. The team is led by Tom Martin, who is the host and senior editor of Eastern Standard. The team’s goal is to explore important policy issues affecting a region that is in transition due to shifting economic, social, environmental, and political realities. 

Since the first six episodes aired, the RISE team has continued to produce occasional episodes focused on specific issues of importance to Eastern Kentucky. RISE is also available on Apple and Spotify.