The Nature, Wildlife and Pet Photography Forum - Fine Art Landscape Photography

March 2012 National Park News

Posted By: James Morrissey

March 2012 National Park News - 03/01/12 10:15 PM

March 1 started off as a bit of a slow news day. Here are some headlines:

Denali National Park News:
NPS May Allow Limited Harvest Of Certain Items In Parks (Note - not sure if this is limited to Denali or if this is a larger plan. Right now, I am leaving this in the 'Denali' section until we get further info).
The National Park Service is considering allowing subsistence harvest of plant and animal parts like birch bark and shed antlers.
http://www.alaskapublic.org/2012/02/28/nps-may-allow-limited-harvest-of-certain-items-in-parks/
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Grand Canyon National Park News:
National Park Service report shows economic contribution of visitors to Grand Canyon
A new report shows visitation at the Grand Canyon hit nearly 4.4 million in 2010, pumping more than $415 million into the regional economy.
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/05d40b7924ad4181ba62d5106266c35b/AZ--Grand-Canyon-Visitors/
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Olympic National Park News:
$103 million spent by Olympic National Park visitors in 2010, study says
Visitors to Olympic National Park contributed $103 million to the economy of the Olympic Peninsula in 2010, according to the National Park Service.
http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/articl...s-in-2010-study
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Outside the US/Canadian Park System:
Kruger National Park Poaching Arrests Made
South African wildlife officials say a ranger is among four Kruger National Park workers arrested on rhinoceros poaching charges.
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/02/29/kruger-national-park-poaching_n_1309194.html
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park NEws:
Appeal of Yellowstone snowmobile rule rejected
A federal appeals court says Wyoming can't sue the federal government over a 2009 rule that slashed how many snowmobiles were allowed in Yellowstone National Park.
http://trib.com/news/state-and-local/app...l#ixzz1nuElwqxL
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Posted By: James Morrissey

03/02/2012 National Park News - 03/02/12 08:34 PM

Everglades National Park News:
Man’s best friend thwarts environmental enemies in the Florida Everglades
Burmese pythons, released into the Florida Everglades by irresponsible pet owners, have become a serious threat to birds and mammals.
http://www.foxnews.com/us/2012/03/01/man...t#ixzz1nzeeITTY
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Glacier National Park News:
Glacier NP hiker to recount 734 mile trek
Kalispell native Jake Bramante hiked every trail in Glacier National Park last summer, all 734 miles. He will share everything he went through on his journey Thursday evening as part of a fundraiser for the Glacier National Park Fund.
http://www.kaj18.com/news/glacier-np-hiker-to-recount-734-mile-trek/
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Grand Canyon National Park News:
More Canyon air tours backed
Ahead of National Park Service proposals this spring that could cut some of the air traffic over the Grand Canyon, U.S. Sen. John McCain has introduced an amendment to limit the scope of any new restrictions.
http://azdailysun.com/news/local/more-ca...l#ixzz1nzeZ07uD
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Misc. National Park News:
Feds Plan to Strip Endangered Species Act Protection from Gray Wolves Across United States
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service recommended removing federal protections from gray wolves that remain on the endangered species list after wolves in the northern Rocky Mountains and upper Midwest had their protections stripped last year.
http://www.infozine.com/news/stories/op/storiesView/sid/50985/
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
Yellowstone National Park Winter Season Concludes
It is a sure sign that spring is on its way: Yellowstone National Park is about to conclude its winter season.
http://www.kulr8.com/news/local/Yellowstone-National-Park-Winter-Season-Concludes-141126543.html

Yellowstone, Grand Teton visitor studies highlight major economic impacts
It’s no surprise Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks make significant economic impacts on surrounding communities. Just how much of an impact is what has park officials stunned.
http://trib.com/news/state-and-regional/...l#ixzz1nzfJnMGw

Wolves, Bison win, snowmobiles lose in Yellowstone fight
Wyoming's fight to open up Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks to more snowmobile use, a classic battle over Western land rights, has been killed by a federal court, opening the door to even tighter restrictions.
http://washingtonexaminer.com/politics/w...ne-fight/327326
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Zion National Park News:
Zion National Park takes wilderness permit system online
Zion National Park has changed its wilderness permit system to allow visitors to reserve last minute slot canyon day use permits via an online reservation system. This new system will eliminate the need for visitors to wait in line at the visitor center for permits.
http://fox13now.com/2012/03/01/zion-national-park-takes-wilderness-permit-system-online/
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/5/2012 National Park News - 03/05/12 06:40 PM


Acadia National Park News:
Bar Harbor man preparing for approval of horse-drawn carriage service
Bar Harbor is considering an ordinance that would allow horse-drawn carriages to operate as taxis this summer.
http://bangordailynews.com/2012/03/03/ne...ice/?ref=latest
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Big Bend National Park News:
Big Bend Sierra Club will focus on Big Bend National Park's haze issue
Due to Spring Break, the March 15 meeting of the Big Bend Regional Sierra Club will be held in the Rio Grande Room of the Holland Hotel, 209 Holland Ave. in Alpine. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m.
http://alpinedailyplanet.typepad.com/alp...haze-issue.html
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Everglades National Park News:
Controlled fire burn for Everglades National Park
A controlled fire is expected to burn just over 30,000 acres from Everglades National Park.
http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/03/05/2675997/controlled-fire-burn-for-everglades.html#storylink=cpy
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Grand Canyon National Park News:
Grand Canyon National Park = visitors, money and jobs for local economy
A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that almost 4.4 million visitors spent more than $415 million in Grand Canyon National Park and in gateway regions around the park in 2010. In addition, visitor spending supported 6,167 jobs in the local area. The four economic/job sectors most impacted by this visitor spending were lodging, restaurants, retail trade, and entertainment/amusement.
http://www.nps.gov/grca/parknews/2012-02-28_economics.htm
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Great Smoky Mountain National Park News:
Park facilities in Smokies to start opening Friday
Feel the mountain breeze! The Great Smoky Mountains National Park will be starting opening roads facilities Friday. The park services announced the Spring schedule Monday.
http://www.wbir.com/news/article/209209/2/Park-facilities-in-Smokies-to-start-opening-Friday

Small rock slide cleared on US 441 near entrance to Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Highway crews have cleared a rock slide that had closed on northbound lane of the Spur between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge.
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/27a3f09b6a7d4c26ae51a861f10cb1c9/TN--Smokies-Rockslide/
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Misc. National Park News:
Should Corporations Bankroll National Parks?
Sure our parks are strapped for cash, but the idea of a Coke banner over Mt. Rushmore is a tad bit creepy.
http://motherjones.com/environment/2012/03/corporations-national-parks-coca-cola
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
2012 opening dates for Yellowstone lodges announced
The opening dates for the lodges inside Yellowstone National Park were announced earlier this week giving travelers an opportunity to start booking their accommodations well in advance of any planned visits later this year.
http://www.gadling.com/2012/03/04/2012-opening-dates-for-yellowstone-lodges-announced/

Gazette opinion: Let's protect Yellowstone to keep money flowing
Yellowstone Park is the crown jewel of our region’s tourism industry. Just how much is that jewel worth?
[url=ttp://billingsgazette.com/news/opinion/editorial/gazette-opinion/gazette-opinion-let-s-protect-yellowstone-to-keep-money-flowing/article_4a7a94f2-594c-529d-96ff-8c40c323c117.html#ixzz1oGk8wGPs][url=ttp://billingsgazette.com/news/opinion/editorial/gazette-opinion/gazette-opinion-let-s-protect-yellowstone-to-keep-money-flowing/article_4a7a94f2-594c-529d-96ff-8c40c323c117.html#ixzz1oGk8wGPs][url=ttp://billingsgazette.com/news/opinion/editorial/gazette-opinion/gazette-opinion-let-s-protect-yellowstone-to-keep-money-flowing/article_4a7a94f2-594c-529d-96ff-8c40c323c117.html#ixzz1oGk8wGPs]ttp://billingsgazette.com/news/opinion/editorial/gazette-opinion/gazette-opinion-let-s-protect-yellowstone-to-keep-money-flowing/article_4a7a94f2-594c-529d-96ff-8c40c323c117.html#ixzz1oGk8wGPs[/url][/url][/url]

Yellowstone Bison Really Two Distinct Populations
The American Bison is an iconic species that conjures up visions of the wide-open prairies characteristic of the Wild West. The spirit of this amazing animal lives on at Yellowstone National Park, home to one of the few populations of bison known to have continually persisted on their current landscape since Pre-Columbian times.
http://www.kbtx.com/national/headlines/Y..._141431783.html

Yellowstone opening dates for spring announced
Yellowstone lodges, restaurants and activities start opening for summer season in late April
http://www.newsday.com/news/yellowstone-opening-dates-for-spring-announced-1.3579052
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/6/2012 National Park News - 03/06/12 09:59 PM

Bryce Canyon National Park News:
Challenge to coal mine expansion near Bryce Canyon heard at Utah Supreme Court
Environmental groups said Utah regulators erred in approving a strip mine near Bryce Canyon National Park in arguments held Monday before the Utah Supreme Court.
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/256802da60ce4b65987309b80b2908e0/UT--Coal-Mine-Bryce-Canyon/
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Everglades National Park News:
Controlled Fire in Everglades National Park
Over 30,000 acres being burned in Everglades
http://www.nbcmiami.com/news/local/Controlled-Fire-in-Everglades-National-Park-141416183.html
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Glacier Bay National Park News:
Brown bear exfoliates using rock as a tool
A wild brown bear has been photographed using a barnacle-covered rock to exfoliate in the first recorded act of tool use by the species.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/nature/17264679
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Great Smoky Mountain National Park News:
Park to host NPS Academy for college students
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is partnering with the Student Conservation Association to host a National Park Service (NPS) Academy for college students from March 12-16. The program is designed to introduce diverse college students to career opportunities with the federal government through hands-on field activities and in-park internships.
http://theonefeather.com/2012/03/park-to-host-nps-academy-for-college-students/
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Rocky Mountain National Park News:
Colorado snowpack up, but not enough
Forecasters say February snowstorms helped increase snowpack in Colorado, but not enough to solve the state's water problems.
http://www.reporterherald.com/news/larimer-county/ci_20112006/colorado-snowpack-up-but-not-enough
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
Man killed by Yellowstone grizzly claimed to be bear expert
A man killed by a grizzly bear in Yellowstone National Park had been warned about the danger the animals presented but said he was a grizzly "expert" who didn't need the standard safety lecture, according to a report released on Monday.
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/sns-rt-us-grizzly-attack-yellowstonetre8241ww-20120305,0,4710524.story
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/7/2012 National Park News - 03/07/12 10:35 PM


Acadia National Park News:
Selectmen approve cell tower moratorium
By a March 5 vote of 4 to 1, the Mount Desert Board of Selectmen approved a 180-day moratorium on the construction of cell towers in Mount Desert. The move comes on the heels of news that joint negotiations between the MDI League of Towns, Acadia National Park and AT&T remain ongoing.
http://mdi.villagesoup.com/news/story/selectmen-approve-cell-tower-moratorium/489118
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Big Bend National Park News:
Nature hits hard
Drought, predators decimate relocated herd
More than three-fourths of 80 pronghorn antelope died after being relocated from the Dalhart area to the Trans-Pecos region last year, researchers said Tuesday.
http://amarillo.com/news/2012-03-06/nature-hits-hard-drought-predators-decimate-relocated-herd
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Carlsbad Caverns National Park News:
Carlsbad Caverns National Park supports jobs in New Mexico
A new National Park Service (NPS) report shows that more than 428,524 visitors in 2010 spent over $23 million in Carlsbad Caverns National Park and in communities near the park. That spending supported more than 346 jobs in the area.
http://www.lcsun-news.com/las_cruces-new...jobs-new-mexico
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Glacier National Park News:
Romantic fundraiser to help Glacier National Park
You can enjoy a romantic evening full of moonlight, dinner and skiing all while helping out Glacier National Park. The fifth annual Moonlight Dine and Ski for Glacier, that's hosted by Whitefish Mountain Resort, is just around the corner.
http://www.ktvq.com/news/romantic-fundraiser-to-help-glacier-national-park/
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Great Smoky Mountain National Park News:
Great Smoky Mountains National Park To Institute Backcountry Fees
Those who head off into the backcountry of Great Smoky Mountains National Park for a night or two will have to pay for the privilege beginning in 2013 under a plan approved by the National Park Service.
http://www.nationalparkstraveler.com/201...ountry-fees9579

Smokies campgrounds begin opening Friday
Spring officially arrives at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on Friday, the day campgrounds and secondary roads reopen after being closed for the winter.
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/mar/06/smokies-campgrounds-begin-opening-friday/
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
Wyoming passes wolf bill while lawsuits loom
The Wyoming Legislature has sent Gov. Matt Mead a bill to change the state's wolf-management law — a critical step toward ratifying the agreement the governor reached with the federal government last year over how to end Endangered Species Act protections for the animals.
http://billingsgazette.com/news/state-an...l#ixzz1oTCT3vIY
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/8/2012 National Park News - 03/08/12 10:17 PM



Glacier National Park News:
Obama proposes $29M in Montana land conservation projects
Montana acreage ranks high on President Barack Obama’s wish list for 2013 landscape conservation initiatives, including possible additions to Glacier National Park, conservation easements in the Blackfoot Valley and the Rocky Mountain Front, and completion of the Montana Legacy Project.
http://missoulian.com/news/local/obama-p...l#ixzz1oZAUnRvV
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Great Smoky Mountain National Park News:
Rangers checking on late boaters in Smokies
Rangers in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are trying to find three people who failed to arrive on schedule from a boating trip.
http://www.wbtv.com/story/17111580/rangers-checking-on-late-boaters-in-smokies
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Yellowstone National Park Wolf Population Numbers Down
Wolf numbers in Yellowstone National Park at the end of 2011 were far off their peak of 174 counted back in 2003, a decline attributed to disease and a smaller prey base.
http://www.nationalparkstraveler.com/201...umbers-down9580

Work continues on Yellowstone winter use plan; public comments due Friday
For the past decade, litigation and court rulings have stymied creation of a Yellowstone National Park winter use plan—which would dictate how many snowmobiles and snowcoaches are allowed in the park each day.
http://www.bozemandailychronicle.com/new...19bb2963f4.html

BREAKING NEWS: Rangers recover skiers' bodies
1:52 p.m. - Six men carried one body to the Teton County Coroner’s sport-utility vehicle parked in Grand Teton National Park. Seven men carried the second body.
http://www.jhnewsandguide.com/article.php?art_id=8329
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/12/2012 National Park News - 03/12/12 09:42 PM

Big Bend National Park News:
Sen. Hutchison Expresses Concern About Unmanned Border Crossing at Big Bend National Park
Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) expressed concern about security risks posed by an unmanned border crossing at the Big Bend National Park, now under construction by the U.S. National Park Service.
http://politicalnews.me/?id=12531&keys=SECURITY-RISKS-BORDER-UNMANNED
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Denali National Park News:
Small quake recorded in Denali park
A small earthquake was recorded Saturday afternoon 31 miles southwest of Kantishna in Denali National Park and Preserve.
http://newsminer.com/bookmark/17840962-Small-quake-recorded-in-Denali-park

Park Service to start clearing Denali road
In what is one of the first signs of spring in the Interior, the National Park Service will begin clearing the road into Denali National Park and Preserve today in preparation for summer tourist traffic.
http://newsminer.com/bookmark/17840949-Park-Service-to-start-clearing-Denali-road
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
Grand Teton National Park Rangers, Exum Mountain Guides Recognized for Valor By Interior Secretary
Climbing rangers from Grand Teton National Park and guides from Exum Mountain Guides have been recognized for their valor in connection with a search-and-rescue operation in the Tetons when 17 climbers were caught up in a lightning storm.
http://www.nationalparkstraveler.com/201...r-secretary9586

Teton slide kills 2 in Wyoming
An avalanche on 11,355-foot Ranger Peak in Grand Teton National Park on Wednesday killed ski pioneer and blogger Steve Romeo and Jackson Hole Mountain Resort tram maintenance manager Chris Onufer.
http://www.summitdaily.com/article/20120312/NEWS/120319972/1078&ParentProfile=1055
Posted By: James Morrissey

3/13/2012 National Park News - 03/13/12 08:32 PM


Great Smoky Mountain National Park News:
Work planned on U.S. 441 in Smokies
Workers on Monday began removing unstable debris from a March 5 rock slide on the northbound spur (U.S. 441) between Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, Tenn., according to a statement from the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
http://www.citizen-times.com/article/20120313/NEWS01/303130019/Smokies-rock-slide-cleanup-jams-traffic-US-441?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Frontpage
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North Cascades National Park News:
North Cascades National Park Ranger, Helicopter Pilot Honored For Rescue Of Injured Climber
A ranger from North Cascades National Park] and a helicopter pilot have been honored by Interior Secretary Ken Salazar for their efforts in rescuing an injured climber in July 2009.
http://www.nationalparkstraveler.com/201...red-climber9588
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Yosemite National Park News:
Yosemite National Park Ranger Receives Valor Award (Note: Annoying Drop-Down Banner Ad)
(Press Release) Secretary of the Interior Ken Salazar presented several prestigious Department of the Interior Valor Awards and the Citizen’s Awards for Bravery to National Park Service rangers, staff and citizens at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. last week. Among the recipients was James Daniel (Dan) Abbe, a Park Ranger at Yosemite National Park.
http://www.ksee24.com/news/local/Yosemite-National-Park-Ranger-Receives-Valor-Award-142393805.html
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/14/2012 National Park News - 03/14/12 09:23 PM

Glacier National Park News:
Cameras snap wolverines' playful side
These wolverines may not be the superhero variety found in the comic books.
http://www.calgarysun.com/2012/03/13/cameras-snap-wolverines-playful-side
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Grand Canyon National Park News:
Grand Canyon Uranium Mining Ban Defended by Havasupai Tribe, Conservation Coalition
Arizona’s Havasupai Tribe joined conservation groups joined in filing legal papers on Monday to defend the U.S. Department of the Interior’s 20-year ban on new uranium mining claims across 1 million acres of public lands adjacent to the Grand Canyon.
http://www.enewspf.com/latest-news/scien...-coalition.html
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Great Smoky Mountain National Park News:
Injured Smoky Mountain bear survives to be a mom
Jay Carr, biological science technician, and Carrie Gilbert, wildlife management intern, hold a tranquilized black bear and her three cubs recently at a den site in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Last Thanksgiving the mother bear was seriously injured after being struck by an automobile in the park. After treating the bear with antibiotics, park officials released her not knowing if she'd survive. Two weeks ago they tracked her radio collar signal to her winter den, where they discovered the injured bear almost fully recovered, and with three healthy cubs. (National Park Service)
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/mar/13/injured-smoky-mountain-bear-survives-to-be-a-mom/
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Misc. National Park News:
Senate ready to pass highway programs overhaul; includes allowing states to toll interstates
The Senate is poised to pass an overhaul of highway and transit programs that gives states greater flexibility over how they spend federal aid, streamlines environmental regulations to get projects built faster and seeks to generate greater private investment in transportation projects.
http://www.thetrucker.com/News/Stories/2...nterstates.aspx
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Rocky Mountain National Park News:
Rocky Mountain National Park means income to Longmont and region
Recreation at the nation's national parks means big money to surrounding regions, according to a recent National Park Service report.
http://www.timescall.com/opinion/editori...me-longmont-and
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/152012 National Park News - 03/15/12 09:41 PM

National Park News:

Cuyahoga National Park News:
Shale gas developers looking for leases near Cuyahoga Valley National Park
The shale gas well boom that is transforming rural eastern Ohio has shown up in Northeast Ohio.
http://www.cleveland.com/business/index.ssf/2012/03/shale_gas_developers_looking_f.html
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Denali National Park News:
A piece in the New York Times Sunday magazine explores the loss of silence in our busy world and efforts to restore it in natural spaces, with a look at acoustic studies in surprisingly noisy Denali National Park.
http://www.alaskadispatch.com/article/efforts-restore-quiet-clash-din-denali-national-park
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Grand Canyon National Park News:
Jets not affected by rules for Grand Canyon tours
New rules planned for air tours of the Grand Canyon would not affect commercial aircraft flying over the park, under a measure approved by the Senate.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/arti...b18204c59db785d
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Misc. National Park News:
National Parks for Sale? (Editorial)
A powerful Republican chairman in the House of Representatives just shared with his constituents his desire to begin selling our national parks. Rep. Cliff Stearns of Florida was caught on video in a local town meeting. Here is what he said:
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bill-meadows/national-parks-sell_b_1343208.html
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/19/2012 National Park News - 03/19/12 04:18 PM

National Park News:

Glacier (and Waterton) National Park News:
Ecologists hope to add more land to Peace Park
Conservationists are urging government leaders to add a 100,000-acre piece of Canadian wilderness to the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park.
http://www.greatfallstribune.com/article...land-Peace-Park

Oil company drops plans for exploratory wells near sacred tribal site
A Denver-based oil exploration company says it will keep looking for oil reserves along the Rocky Mountain Front. But a site that's sacred to the Blackfeet Tribe won't be on that list of sites.
http://www.ktvq.com/news/oil-company-drops-plans-for-exploratory-wells-near-sacred-tribal-site/
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Great Smoky Mountain National Park News:
Search continues for missing man in the Smokies
A spokesman with the Great Smoky Mountains National Park says dog teams will be joining rangers in the search Monday morning for a man believed to be missing.
http://www.wbir.com/news/article/211793/2/Park-rangers-look-for-missing-man-in-the-Smokies?odyssey=tab|topnews|bc|large
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Misc. National Park News:
Fuzzy math determines Delaware Water Gap national park visitor totals
Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area gets more visits than the Grand Canyon, the Statue of Liberty, Yellowstone National Park or Mount Rushmore, according to the National Park Service.
http://www.poconorecord.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20120319/NEWS/203190303/-1/NEWS01

Climate: Loss of glaciers linked to diminished biodiversity
The rapid melting of glaciers from the northern Rockies and other parts of the world won’t just impact tourism in places like Glacier National Park — it’s also likely to have a profound effect on regional ecosystems, resulting in significant loss of biodiversity in glacier-fed streams.
http://summitcountyvoice.com/2012/03/19/climate-loss-of-glaciers-linked-to-diminished-biodiversity/
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Outside the US/Canadian Park System:
Kidepo National Park oldest elephant lives on local brew
Elephants might be herbivores that consume only plant life, but a rare species at Kidepo Valley National Park takes kwete, a local brew, and residues of a local potent gin, ajon, for food.
http://www.monitor.co.ug/News/National/-/688334/1368934/-/ax9pspz/-/
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Saguaro National Park News:
Saguaro National Park Using New Technology to Deter Cactus Rustlers
Saguaro National Park is using some new technology to help deter an old-time problem—cactus poachers. Operation PIT Tag inserts tiny micro-chips into cacti to allow positive identification of saguaro cacti which have been heisted from the park. The program makes those plants less attractive targets for rustlers, since it's easy to verify that a tagged cactus is "stolen goods."
http://www.nationalparkstraveler.com/201...us-rustlers9569
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/20/2012 National Park News - 03/20/12 09:13 PM

Acadia National Park News:
Nesting Of Peregrine Falcons Leads To Temporary Closure Of Precipice Area At Acadia National Park
It's a good sign of spring, and a great sign that a once-endangered species is doing well: the return of nesting peregrine falcons to Acadia National Park has led to the temporary closures of the Precipice and Valley Cove Cliffs areas of the park.
http://www.nationalparkstraveler.com/201...tional-park9623

Previously identified in Maine, white-nose syndrome confirmed in bats at Acadia National Park
The National Park Service says a mysterious ailment that has killed millions of bats in the eastern United States has been discovered in Maine's Acadia National Park.
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/5208234c2b7049bba00a59a7ff6a4949/ME--Bath-Deaths-Maine/
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Rocky Mountain National Park News:
Beetles, fungus endanger high mountain pines
University of Alberta looking at epidemic
Called the jewels of the forest, Alberta's iconic whitebark pines are on death watch.
http://www.calgaryherald.com/technology/...l#ixzz1ph4qWkUp
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
APNewsBreak: Yellowstone bison headed to Fort Peck after deal signed between tribes, Montana
Sixty-five bison from Yellowstone National Park were due to arrive at northeast Montana’s Fort Peck Reservation on Monday under a long-stalled initiative to repopulate parts of the West with the iconic, genetically pure animals, a tribal official said.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/...5GNS_story.html

APNewsBreak: Yellowstone bison arrive at Fort Peck
Sixty-four bison from Yellowstone National Park were shipped almost 500 miles to northeast Montana's Fort Peck Reservation on Monday, under a long-stalled relocation initiative meant to repopulate parts of the West with the iconic animals.
http://www.ajc.com/news/nation-world/apnewsbreak-yellowstone-bison-arrive-1390658.html
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/22/2012 National Park News - 03/22/12 06:30 PM




Big Bend National Park News:
Texas Suspends Wild Burro Killing Policy
The 300 feral burros living in Big Bend Ranch State Park in Texas are considered to be a destructive nuisance. Since 2007 park rangers have been authorized to shoot and kill the animals. On Tuesday Texas suspended that policy, thanks to an offer from the Humane Society of the United States to develop a humane plan to remove the animals.
http://www.care2.com/causes/texas-suspends-wild-burro-killing-policy.html#ixzz1ps6PM2Ae
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Everglades National Park News:
How big is Florida's python problem?
Debate smolders over whether invasive snakes are a national threat or trouble for just one state
http://www.avma.org/onlnews/javma/apr12/120401a.asp
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Grand Canyon National Park News:
HAI Meets With Sen. McCain on Grand Canyon Issue
HAI President Matt Zuccaro and Government Affairs Vice President Ann Carroll on Thursday met with Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.)to discuss concerns of air tour operators, especially those who operate over Grand Canyon National Park.
http://rotor.com/Publications/RotorNewssupregsup/tabid/177/newsid1237/75125/mid/1237/Default.aspx
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Great Smoky Mountain National Park News:
A second person disappears at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
A second person has gone missing at the Great Smoky Mountains National Park.
http://www.volunteertv.com/home/headlines/143645896.html
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Joshua Tree National Park News:
Hazmat teams called to Joshua Tree National Park after several employees get sick
Authorities are trying to determine what made several employees at Joshua Tree National Park suddenly become ill.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/h...H6SS_story.html
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Misc. National Park News:
Bat disease hits two more national parks
White-nose syndrome has been found in Acadia and Great Smoky Mountains national parks, just days after it was first confirmed in Alabama.
http://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/animals/blogs/bat-disease-hits-two-more-national-parks
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
Bears in Grand Teton National Park are emerging from hibernation; Males usually 1st to wake up
Officials at Grand Teton National Park say bears are ending their winter hibernation and park visitors should be alert for their presence.
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/fb8f07b1f725430d97eff866de20f5f7/WY--Bears-Hibernation/

Yellowstone bison return to tribal land
The transfer of 63 genetically pure bison from Yellowstone National Park to the Fort Peck Indian Reservation prairie will help heal some of the wrongs inflicted on Native Americans by the U.S. government over past centuries, tribal leaders said Wednesday.
http://www.greatfallstribune.com/article/20120322/NEWS01/203220313/Yellowstone-bison-return-tribal-land?odyssey=tab|topnews|text|Frontpage
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Posted By: James Morrissey

03/23/2012 National Park News - 03/23/12 07:24 PM


Glacier National Park News:
Legislation would allow pipeline work in Glacier Park
Montana Sens. Max Baucus and Jon Tester are pushing legislation that would affirm the National Park Service’s authority to permit maintenance of a natural gas pipeline that parallels U.S. 2 on the southern boundary of Glacier National Park.
http://www.dailyinterlake.com/news/local_montana/article_0547b7fe-7491-11e1-9f58-001871e3ce6c.html

Baucus pushes Rocky Mountain Front wilderness bil
Supporters of the Rocky Mountain Front Heritage Act had their day in Congress on Thursday when U.S. Sen. Max Baucus led off testimony on the bill.
http://missoulian.com/news/state-and-reg...l#ixzz1pyAodfgy
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Grand Canyon National Park News:
Navajo Nation wants to build aerial tram into Canyon
The Navajo Nation and a Scottsdale developer are weighing plans for an aerial tram ride down to the Colorado River on the eastern boundary of Grand Canyon National Park.
http://azdailysun.com/news/local/navajo-...l#ixzz1pyAFAyht
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Great Smoky Mountain National Park News:
Smokies to begin first major scenic vista clearing project in decades
When roads through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park were originally constructed, the forests had been extensively logged and often burned, leaving unobstructed views in every direction.
http://www.therepublic.com/view/story/dde03625fd284c36b7ac012f066ea522/TN--Scenic-Vistas/
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Rocky Mountain National Park News:
Ammonia from extra cows causes concern over Rocky Mountain National Park
A Leprino cheese plant in Greeley has been open and operating for months now, and in the coming years, it's expected that Leprino's demand for milk there will lead to an increase in cows. That could mean 50,000 more heads of cattle in the area. That has some people concerned about cow emissions and how they might be hurting Rocky Mountain National Park.
http://www.9news.com/news/local/article/258021/222/Ammonia-from-extra-cows-causes-concern-over-RMNP-
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Saguaro National Park News:
Saguaro National Park in Tucson to stop selling disposable plastic bottles by vending machines
Saguaro National Park in Tucson is discontinuing the sale of disposable bottled water or soda by vending machines on site.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/...KbTS_story.html
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Theodore Roosevelt National Park News:
Elk reduction plan at national park meets goal early
Officials at Theodore Roosevelt National Park said they aren’t planning a third elk hunt this fall because the herd’s population objective has been met.
http://bismarcktribune.com/news/state-an...l#ixzz1pyAaNmO2
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
Mont. judge blocks more Yellowstone bison moves
A Montana judge granted a restraining order Thursday blocking further relocations of Yellowstone National Park bison following objections from ranchers and property rights groups.
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/arti...0d6db19ba090c16
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/26/2012 National Park News - 03/26/12 06:15 PM


Misc National Park News:
Study: Guns no more effective than pepper spray in bear encounters
As bears begin to emerge from dens in the greater Yellowstone National Park ecosystem, a new study says carrying a gun into bear country doesn’t make you any safer.
http://trib.com/news/state-and-regional/...l#ixzz1qFREpJz3

App Review: Field Guide, Tips For Photographing The American Wilderness
Buying the best camera gear on the market will not turn you into the best photographer on the planet. It will move you in that direction, but if you don't alter your thinking when framing pictures, you'll remain lost in the void.
http://www.nationalparkstraveler.com/201...-wilderness9665

Nature Valley Offering 'Street View' for Hiking U.S. Parks
For many, Google Street View has become a way to virtually explore the world. Nature Valley hopes that Trail View can do the same for our nation's parks.
http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2402065,00.asp
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
Yellowstone National Park opens to bicyclists
Here's another sign of springtime in Yellowstone National Park: Portions of the park now are open to people on bicycles.
http://missoulian.com/news/state-and-reg...l#ixzz1qFQvIVcf

Grand Teton National Park Foundation Provides Nearly $1 Million For Projects At Grand Teton National Park
Nearly $1 million worth of projects, ranging from teen trail crews, bear boxes, and wildlife research, were underwritten at Grand Teton National Park during the past year by the Grand Teton National Park Foundation.
http://www.nationalparkstraveler.com/201...tional-park9648
Posted By: James Morrissey

3/27/2012 National Park News - 03/27/12 08:02 PM

Everglades National Park News:
The Everglades Foundation on Monday released a report showing that 76 percent of phosphorous pollution entering the Everglades comes from agricultural operations while that sector pays 24 percent of the cost.
http://www.thefloridacurrent.com/article.cfm?id=27114012
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Glacier National Park News:
Whitefish Mountain to close Hellroaring Basin so grizzly bears can roam
Hellroaring Basin at Whitefish Mountain Resort will close April 1 to provide critical spring habitat to grizzly bears emerging from their dens, Flathead National Forest officials announced Monday.
http://missoulian.com/news/state-and-reg...l#ixzz1qLgvwmJn
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Great Smoky Mountain National Park News:
Visitation picking up in Smokies
Visits to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park are running ahead of last year's traffic.
http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-501843_162-57404456/visitation-picking-up-in-smokies/

Trees getting in the way at Great Smoky Mountains National Park
An estimated 85 percent of visitors to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park in East Tennessee experience the park primarily from their vehicles.
http://www.bizjournals.com/nashville/morning_call/2012/03/trees-getting-in-the-way-at-great.html
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Misc. National Park News:
If you're visiting southern Arizona's Saguaro National Park this spring and don't bring along your own thirst quenchers, take note: The park is discontinuing on-site vending machine sales of disposable bottled water and soda.
http://travel.usatoday.com/destinations/...ottles/656381/1
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
Grand Teton National Park Roads Open to Traditional Spring-time Activities
Grand Teton National Park road crews will soon complete their annual spring plowing of the Moose-Wilson Road from Granite Canyon to Death Canyon and the Teton Park Road from Taggart Lake parking area to Signal Mountain Lodge. Consequently, non-motorized activities such as hiking, biking, and inline skating will be allowed starting Saturday, March 24.
http://www.nps.gov/grte/parknews/news-release-12-17.htm
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/28/2012 National Park News - 03/28/12 07:22 PM


Everglades National Park News:
JAVMA Probes Whether Burmese Pythons Are Mere Hype or Slithering Destructive Force
Despite the string of national headlines, television specials, a federal ban, and grotesque photographs, it's becoming increasingly unclear whether Burmese pythons are permanently wrecking the Everglades or if they're just an overhyped nuisance.
http://blogs.browardpalmbeach.com/pulp/2012/03/javma_burmese_pythons.php
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Rocky Mountain National Park News:
Ammonia from extra cows causes concern over Rocky Mountain National Park
A Leprino cheese plant in Greeley has been open and operating for months now, and in the coming years, it's expected that Leprino's demand for milk there will lead to an increase in cows. That could mean 50,000 more heads of cattle in the area. That has some people concerned about cow emissions and how they might be hurting Rocky Mountain National Park.
http://www.9news.com/rss/story.aspx?storyid=258021
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National park News:
Yellowstone Park elk population declines 80 percent since 1992
A major elk herd that migrates between Yellowstone National Park and Montana suffered another steep decline last year due to a hard winter, predator attacks and hunting, state and federal scientists said Tuesday.
http://www.greatfallstribune.com/article/20120328/NEWS01/203280313/Yellowstone-Park-elk-population-declines-80-percent-since-1992?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Frontpage|s

Grand Teton National Park is seeking public comment on its environmental assessment of a plan to replace the wastewater system at Moose and to upgrade other deficiencies in the community’s water systems.
http://www.yellowstonegate.com/2012/03/g...ystem-overhaul/

Yellowstone elk decline continues; wolves only partially responsible
A major elk herd that migrates between Yellowstone National Park and Montana suffered another steep decline last year due to a hard winter, predator attacks and hunting, state and federal scientists said Tuesday.
http://www.spokesman.com/blogs/outdoors/...ly-responsible/
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Posted By: James Morrissey

03/29/2012 National Park News - 03/29/12 08:00 PM

Acadia National Park News:
Maine prepares for presidential visit
Preparations are under way for a visit by President Barack Obama to Maine.
http://www.seacoastonline.com/articles/20120329-NEWS-120329693
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Denali National Park News:
Sen. Murkowski to host roundtable in Anchorage
Sen. Lisa Murkowski will host a roundtable discussion on economic growth and employment opportunities in and around Alaska’s national parks.
http://newsminer.com/bookmark/18026197-Sen-Murkowski-to-host-roundtable-in-Anchorage
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Great Smoky Mountain National Park News:
Smokies park working with Trail Conservancy to raise awareness on missing man
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is working with the Appalachian Trail Conservancy to alert hikers of a missing Louisville, Tenn., man whose vehicle was found in the park earlier this month.
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2012/mar/28/smokies-park-working-with-trail-conservancy-to/
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Isle Royale National Park News:
Are Wolves At Isle Royale National Park On Their Last Legs?
The nine wolves now roaming Isle Royale National Park represent the lowest total ever counted since annual observations of wolves and moose on the Lake Superior island began in 1958, raising concerns that the predators might soon be gone from the park.
http://www.nationalparkstraveler.com/201...r-last-legs9651
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Outside the US/Canadian Park System:
Kenya authorities shoot dead 6 suspected poachers
Kenya Wildlife Service rangers shot and killed three suspected poachers in a national park in the latest in a series of poacher killings amid a rise in elephant deaths, an official said Wednesday.
http://www.businessweek.com/ap/2012-03/D9TPJHM80.htm
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
What's killing Yellowstone -area elk?
Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks' Region 3 Citizens' Advisory Committee will meet in Bozeman on Thursday, March 29, at the FWP Regional Office (1400 S. 19th Ave.) from 12:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. The public is welcome and encouraged to attend.
http://www.lonepeaklookout.com/news/article_4734c88a-791b-11e1-98db-001a4bcf887a.html
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Posted By: James Morrissey

3/30/2012 National Park News - 03/30/12 06:29 PM


Glacier National Park News:
Green Technology Cleans Natural Gas Fracking Water
Ecosphere Technologies, Inc. (OTCBB: ESPH) seems to have a technology that cleans the water used for natural gas fracking, which could solve one of the problems related to the controversial practice.
http://www.sustainablebusiness.com/index.cfm/go/news.display/id/23553
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Misc. National Park News;
Montana State study compares growth around Yellowstone, Glacier and other national parks
The land around Yellowstone and Glacier national parks might look like it's filling up with people and houses, but it's nothing compared to the rate of development around some other U.S. national parks, according to a new Montana State University study.
http://www.sciencecodex.com/montana_stat...nal_parks-88858
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Yellowstone (and Grand Teton) National Park News:
62 Yellowstone Bison Freed on Indian Reservation in Montana
After five years in quarantine captivity, 62 Yellowstone bison, one of the most important biological and cultural species in North America, will live on the tribal lands of the Assiniboine and Sioux tribes. The Fort Peck Reservation is home to two separate American Indian nations, each composed of numerous bands and divisions.
http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/mar2012/2012-03-29-092.html

While Yellowstone and Grand Teton thrive, visits to most national parks declining
A national parks and travel industry insider has hailed the work of Yellowstone Gate readers in sharing information about Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, but cautions that visitation is declining at most parks over the long term.
http://www.yellowstonegate.com/2012/03/w...arks-declining/

Rebounding Grizzlies Still Face, and Pose, Risks
Yellowstone’s rebounding grizzly bear population is an undeniable success. But figuring out how to manage the threatened omnivores—in light of potential food shortages and deadly human-grizzly interactions—isn’t so easy.
http://www.audubonmagazine.org/articles/conservation/rebounding-grizzlies-still-face-and-pose-risks
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