StateImpact Oklahoma

Fridays at 6:45 a.m., repeated throughout the morning at 7:45 a.m. and 8:45 a.m.

StateImpact Oklahoma reports on education, health, environment, and the intersection of government and everyday Oklahomans. It's a reporting project and collaboration of KCCU, KOSU, KWGS and KGOU, with broadcasts heard on these NPR Member stations.

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Oklahoma is seeking part of a $50 billion rural health fund. Could it transform care amid other cuts?

Alongside the passage of billions of dollars in Medicaid spending reductions over a decade, Oklahoma is also vying for an opportunity available to all 50 states to fund sustainable rural health care initiatives.Mentioned in this episode:Social Media tags
As a deadly disease imperils North American bats, researchers say Oklahoma’s population is hanging on

Flying mammals of the night have been under threat of white-nose syndrome in the U.S. for years. Oklahoma researchers are tracking their populations and finding positive results.Mentioned in this episode:Social Media tags
Despite loss of federal protections, lesser prairie chicken conservation persists on private land

The ground-dwelling bird’s preferred grassland habitat overlaps with agricultural and energy-rich regions, putting the species’ future in the hands of private landowners. In the second installment of a two-part series, StateImpact’s Chloe Bennett-Steele reports on continued conservation efforts for the species.Mentioned in this episode:Social Media tags
What's next as Oklahoma's highway system strains against growth?

Inflation compounds an already tough situation for Oklahoma’s highway infrastructure.Mentioned in this episode:Social Media tags
‘Isn’t that wonderful?’ Intergenerational programs combat loneliness, create purpose for seniors

Intergenerational programs are working throughout the state in small numbers to bring different age groups together through ongoing, mutually beneficial activities. As Oklahoma’s aging population grows, officials are looking to expand the model to accomodate them.Mentioned in this episode:Social Media tags
Migrating monarchs return to Oklahoma amid concerns over population decline

The beloved orange butterfly is imperiled due to habitat loss, insecticides and climate change. Growing certain plants along their route can help.Mentioned in this episode:Social Media tags
Oklahoma regulators to balance costly nuclear potential with projected wave of energy demand

Elected state officials voted to require the Oklahoma Corporation Commission to investigate whether the Sooner State could generate nuclear energy or hold off on welcoming the industry.Mentioned in this episode:Social Media tags
Crossroads Mall has sat largely empty for years. A new nonprofit wants to turn it into a community hub

Crossroads Mall – a once dominant shopping destination in South Oklahoma City – has sat relatively empty for years. A new faith-based nonprofit is hoping to change that and serve an entire community with a resource hub. Mentioned in this episode:Social Media tags
4-H students await judgment as Oklahoma State Fair starts

The Oklahoma State Fair officially starts Thursday. But for young 4-H members from across Oklahoma, Wednesday was the most important day of the year.Mentioned in this episode:Social Media tags
The sun is setting on federal solar tax credits. Here’s how one Oklahoma tribal nation used them

Federal incentives to lessen the financial burden of solar panel installations are ending earlier than originally planned after the July 4 passage of the tax and spending law. Mentioned in this episode:Social Media tags