Matthew Russell

Matthew Russell

Matthew Russell is a West Michigan native and with a background in journalism, data analysis, cartography and design thinking. He likes to learn new things and solve old problems whenever possible, and enjoys bicycling, spending time with his daughters, and coffee.

Articles by Matthew Russell

Half a Million Gallons of Wastewater a Day Could Push a Protected Lagoon Past Its Limits

Half a Million Gallons of Wastewater a Day Could Push a Protected Lagoon Past Its Limits

One of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America is already fighting to recover. Now, a plan to release nearly half a million gallons of industrial wastewater each day could...

Half a Million Gallons of Wastewater a Day Could Push a Protected Lagoon Past Its Limits

One of the most biodiverse estuaries in North America is already fighting to recover. Now, a plan to release nearly half a million gallons of industrial wastewater each day could...

Dolphins splashing playfully in the water, creating waves and spray.

South Carolina Dolphins Are Dying at the Shoreline and Multiple Factors are to Blame

A dolphin on the sand is never just an isolated tragedy. Along South Carolina’s coast, strandings are revealing a complex mix of disease, pollution, risky feeding behavior, and growing human...

South Carolina Dolphins Are Dying at the Shoreline and Multiple Factors are to Blame

A dolphin on the sand is never just an isolated tragedy. Along South Carolina’s coast, strandings are revealing a complex mix of disease, pollution, risky feeding behavior, and growing human...

Medical professionals consult with a soldier in a healthcare setting.

Veterans Face Longer Waits as VA Prepares To Cut 35,000 Health Care Positions

The Department of Veterans Affairs is preparing to eliminate as many as 35,000 health care positions, a move that could reshape how millions of veterans receive care. The plan focuses...

Veterans Face Longer Waits as VA Prepares To Cut 35,000 Health Care Positions

The Department of Veterans Affairs is preparing to eliminate as many as 35,000 health care positions, a move that could reshape how millions of veterans receive care. The plan focuses...

Close-up of a rider's boot in a stirrup on a gray horse.

Did New York Lawmakers Take a Secret Ride And Leave Horses Paying the Price?

New York lawmakers step into racing carts and disappear behind the gates of Yonkers Raceway. No cameras. Little notice. Real horses running at full speed.

Did New York Lawmakers Take a Secret Ride And Leave Horses Paying the Price?

New York lawmakers step into racing carts and disappear behind the gates of Yonkers Raceway. No cameras. Little notice. Real horses running at full speed.

A gorilla raises its hand beside a frog grasping another frog in water.

Frog Battle and Gorilla High Kick Captivate In Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards 2025

A young gorilla leaping through a forest clearing. A pair of frogs locked in a dramatic mid-pond struggle. A fox ready to “hit the dance floor.” This year’s Comedy Wildlife...

Frog Battle and Gorilla High Kick Captivate In Comedy Wildlife Photo Awards 2025

A young gorilla leaping through a forest clearing. A pair of frogs locked in a dramatic mid-pond struggle. A fox ready to “hit the dance floor.” This year’s Comedy Wildlife...

Two children joyfully interact with dogs in a park setting, showcasing companionship and happiness.

Holiday Adoption Rush Gives Hundreds of Pets a Final Shot at Safety

Some survived neglect. Some simply ran out of time. All of them want warmth, safety, and a place to call home as winter closes in.

Holiday Adoption Rush Gives Hundreds of Pets a Final Shot at Safety

Some survived neglect. Some simply ran out of time. All of them want warmth, safety, and a place to call home as winter closes in.