The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2017 Toxics Release Inventory National Analysis indicates that since 2007, releases of toxic chemicals by manufacturers declined, despite a growing economy.

The Environmental Integrity Project report shows groundwater contamination at 242 coal plants.

Economists say severe weather helped cause job losses.

Underground compact-equipment maker The Toro Company announced it will acquire its major competitor, Charles Machine Works, for $700 million in cash.