Yellowstone's Biscuit Basin ~ NPS National parks are often seen as timeless, unchanging landscapes—places where visitors can experience nature at its most pristine. However, the recent events at Yellowstone’s Biscuit Basin, Glen Canyon’s Double Arch, and the North Cascades’ Pioneer Fire reveal that these environments are anything but static. These parks are dynamic, continually shaped by natural processes that define their character and beauty. The National Park Service (NPS), tasked with preserving these treasures "unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations," faces the challe ..read more

Every year on July 31st, we celebrate World Ranger Day to honor the brave men and women who protect our natural treasures and cultural heritage. Established by the International Ranger Federation (IRF) and The Thin Green Line Foundation, this day commemorates rangers who have lost their lives or been injured in the line of duty while celebrating the essential work rangers do globally. History of World Ranger Day World Ranger Day was established to acknowledge the vital role of rangers in conserving biodiversity and cultural sites. It also serves as a reminder of the dangers rangers face dail ..read more

Mount Rainier ~ NPS Mount Rainier, towering at 14,411 feet above sea level, is a majestic sight in Washington state, drawing thousands of visitors annually. However, beneath its serene snow-capped peaks lies a dormant threat that could pose significant danger to surrounding communities. Recent studies and increased monitoring have heightened awareness of Mount Rainier's potential for volcanic activity, specifically the risk of lahars—devastating volcanic mudflows that could impact nearby towns and cities. The Lahar Threat A lahar is a mixture of volcanic ash, rock, and water that flow ..read more

Feral Pigs ~ NPS Invasive species are non-native plants, animals, or pathogens that cause harm to the environment, economy, or human health. Their presence in national parks threatens native biodiversity, disrupting ecosystems and outcompeting indigenous species. The National Park Service (NPS) actively works to manage and remove these invasive species to preserve the natural integrity of these protected areas. Common Invasive Species in National Parks Emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennis): The emerald ash borer is a bright green beetle that feeds on ash trees. Since 2002, it ..read more

Juneteenth Reenactors ~ NPS Juneteenth, celebrated on June 19th, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. This significant holiday marks the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War, declaring that all enslaved people were free. This announcement came two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation, which had officially outlawed slavery in the Confederate States. Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is a time to reflec ..read more

In a historic move reflecting America's growing environmental consciousness, President Joe Biden has Tule Lake ~ USFWS  set an ambitious goal to conserve 30% of the United States' land and waters by 2030. This target, known as the "30x30" plan, is a critical component of Biden's broader environmental agenda aimed at combating climate change, preserving biodiversity, and ensuring the sustainability of natural resources for future generations. This initiative marks a significant shift from the previous administration's policies under Donald Trump, who emphasized development over c ..read more

World War II Memorial ~ NPS As we mark the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landing, it's crucial to reflect on the pivotal moment that altered the course of history and heralded the beginning of the end of World War II. On June 6, 1944, Allied forces launched a daring invasion of Normandy, France, in what was the largest seaborne invasion in history. Codenamed Operation Overlord, this monumental undertaking involved thousands of troops, ships, and aircraft from various nations united in a common cause – to liberate Europe from the grip of tyranny. The significance of D-Day cannot be ove ..read more

Denali~NPS Recently, a rumor circulated claiming that the superintendent of Denali National Park had ordered the removal of American flags from contractor vehicles. This story, which garnered attention and stirred controversy, has been thoroughly debunked. The National Park Service (NPS) unequivocally denied these allegations, affirming that no such directive was ever issued. The Origin and Spread of the Rumor The false narrative began circulating on social media and was quickly picked up by certain outlets that presented it as fact. The claim suggested that the Denali National Park s ..read more

Visitors taking a Selfie ~ NPS In an era where social media has become integral to daily life, its influence extends far beyond virtual interactions, impacting real-world behaviors and trends. One notable area experiencing this digital influence is national park visitation. A recent study highlighted in Men's Journal reveals that social media significantly drives increased visitation to national parks. The Digital Hike: Social Media’s Role Social media platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok are no longer just for sharing selfies or keeping up with friends; they have be ..read more

Dolores Canyons, Cawright2007 In a recent development that has stirred excitement and controversy, President Biden has announced plans to designate approximately 400,000 acres of land around the Dolores Canyons in Colorado as a national monument. This decision marks a significant step in preserving this iconic landscape's natural beauty and cultural heritage while igniting debates surrounding land use and conservation policies. The Antiquities Act: Empowering Presidential Action To understand the significance of President Biden's move, it's essential to delve into the history of the A ..read more