Reporter

A Globe staff writer since 1999, Abel has written extensively about Latin America, national security, higher education, poverty, travel, and many other subjects throughout New England. He now covers the environment for the Globe.
Officials announced they would make a network of trails over a century-old system of aqueducts accessible to hikers, bikers, or anyone seeking a stroll in the woods.
The unusual trails, a secret to many people, run through 14 communities -- along the grassy tops of old aqueducts that once brought water to Boston. Now state officials say they are going to make those trails more accessible to the public. Massachusetts Energy and Environmental Affairs Secretary Rick Sullivan and Massachusetts Water Resources Authority Executive Director Fred Laskey today announced the new policy.
Environmental officials are considering new regulations that would require the state to review potential noise issues before wind turbines are built.
Officials have recommended shutting down a Falmouth wind turbine because of elevated noise levels that they described as unacceptable to local residents.