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Rachel McDevitt, Reporter / StateImpact Pennsylvania

I report on energy and the environment for StateImpact Pennsylvania at WITF.

My work focuses on responses and solutions to climate change in the state legislature and communities around the state. I trace my interest in these issues back to my time as a Girl Scout and this episode of Rocko’s Modern Life.

I look forward to winter just for the chance to ski a few times each season. I try to keep myself from doom-scrolling on my phone by keeping my hands busy knitting and learning to play the piano.

I grew up in Cambria County, Pa. and graduated from Temple University. I started at WITF just after Christmas in 2014.

Latest by Rachel McDevitt


Pennsylvania weighs how to manage power-hungry data centers

Utility regulators are bracing for a surge in electricity demand driven in large part by the opening of new, power-intensive data centers in Pennsylvania.

By Rachel McDevitt/StateImpact Pennsylvania

Farewell, StateImpact Pennsylvania

StateImpact Pennsylvania is ending after 13+ years.

By Rachel McDevitt/StateImpact Pennsylvania

Lancaster rejoins worst in nation in latest ‘State of the Air’

The report found that 25 million more people are living in areas with unhealthy air, compared to last year’s report.

By Rachel McDevitt/StateImpact Pennsylvania

Suspect in Pa. governor’s residence arson denied bail

Pennsylvania State Police say Cody Balmer was hospitalized due to a medical event not connected to the incident or his arrest.

By Rachel McDevitt/StateImpact Pennsylvania

State parks attracting more campground reservations as federally-run sites close

State parks are seeing a nearly 30% increase in campsite reservations made in March for the rest of the year, compared to reservations made in March 2024.

By Rachel McDevitt/StateImpact Pennsylvania

York County landfill found liable for 419 water pollution violations over 4 years

Republic Services’ Modern Landfill is liable for 419 violations of the Clean Water Act between July 2019 and April 2023.

By Rachel McDevitt/StateImpact Pennsylvania

Environmental group plans to sue York County scrap yard over pollution in Codorus Creek

The Lower Susquehanna Riverkeeper Association on Monday filed a notice of intent to sue J&K Salvage in York.

By Rachel McDevitt/StateImpact Pennsylvania



Pennsylvania launches Center for Plant Excellence in Lancaster County

The Center for Plant Excellence’s goal is to advance research, innovation, and business growth in Pennsylvania’s plant-based agriculture sector.

By Rachel McDevitt/StateImpact Pennsylvania
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