Yanqi Xu, Flatwater Free Press, Author at Investigate Midwest

Pillen’s promises: Economic boom and little harm for neighbors. They haven’t always panned out.

by Yanqi Xu, Flatwater Free Press and Sky Chadde, Investigate Midwest July 10, 2024July 12, 2024 Why you can trust Investigate Midwest

As he grew Nebraska’s largest hog operation, Jim Pillen made economic and environmental assurances to residents of small communities where he was looking to build. Some residents profited. Others say Pillen Family Farms prospered while they suffered.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen’s office, industry groups crafted bill easing ag permitting process, emails show

by Yanqi Xu, Flatwater Free Press April 4, 2024April 4, 2024 Why you can trust Investigate Midwest

Water’s worth: It sits beneath Nebraska’s farmland and has serious value. But who owns it?

by Yanqi Xu, Flatwater Free Press March 4, 2024March 4, 2024 Why you can trust Investigate Midwest

Who’s Buying Nebraska? Corporations, investors grabbing giant chunks of Nebraska farmland

by Yanqi Xu, Flatwater Free Press and Destiny Herbers, Flatwater Free Press November 20, 2023November 27, 2023 Why you can trust Investigate Midwest

Pillen’s Water: High nitrate detected on hog farms owned by Nebraska’s governor

by Yanqi Xu, Flatwater Free Press September 7, 2023September 7, 2023 Why you can trust Investigate Midwest

Pillen’s Rise: After building pork empire, Nebraska’s governor stands at intersection of state and ag power

by Sky Chadde, Investigate Midwest and Yanqi Xu, Flatwater Free Press August 31, 2023December 13, 2023 Why you can trust Investigate Midwest

Agribusiness, Region

Our Dirty Water: Nebraska’s nitrate problem is growing worse. It’s likely harming our kids.

by Yanqi Xu, Flatwater Free Press October 31, 2022November 3, 2022 Why you can trust Investigate Midwest

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