Yellowstone Park News

They're Here

2012-01-10T08:53:00.000-07:00

SnoBear on left, Grizz on right.

Note the heavy track system and suspension on the skis of the Grizz.

Photo from SnoBear Facebook Page.

A Bit Of Information

2012-01-06T11:17:00.002-07:00

SnoBear SEEN IN WEST YELLOWSTONE

ALL DECKED OUT IN COMMERCIAL COLORS AND TOUTING AVAILABLE USES

.. FACT: There is a new SnoBear dealership in West Yellowstone.
.. FACT: There are two SnoBear vehicles in the neighborhood.
.. FACT: One vehicle is in Mammoth, Yellowstone National Park, and areas nearby with enough snow to use it.
.. FACT: One vehicle is in West Yellowstone, Montana and occasionally on Hebgen Lake, Parade Rest Guest Ranch, and environs.
FACT: The vehicles are light, nimble, clean, quiet, modern, and initially designed for ice fishing.
FACT: Aircraft-design windows do not fog up when in use.

RUMOR: Yellowstone National Park is exploring the possibility of buying a fleet of these vehicles, (or a larger custom-built model,) to replace or augment their aging fleet of van-conversions and Bombardier vehicles.
RUMOR: A custom built, (to Park specifications,) vehicle should arrive in Mammoth within a month, or six weeks at the latest.
RUMOR: A ski shuttle business is in the offing for back country areas around West Yellowstone and perhaps in Yellowstone National Park.
RUMOR: These vehicles are cleaner and quieter than any winter use vehicle currently mandated by Yellowstone National Park for winter over-the-snow tourism.
RUMOR: These vehicles provide comfort and convenience that is light-years beyond that of any vehicle currently being used for winter tourism in Yellowstone National Park.
RUMOR: Yellowstone National Park officials believe that the winter visitor experience will be greatly enhanced by the use of these vehicles.
RUMOR: Winter-stressed animals do not even look up as these vehicles pass them.
SPECULATION: The introduction of these vehicles into the winter travel mix in Yellowstone National Park could be as revolutionary as the banning of Snow Planes, or the mandate for only commercial travel on all roads except the road to Cooke City.
SPECULATION: Yellowstone National Park is using the vehicles for VIP tours.
SPECULATION: These vehicles are being tested in an effort to comply with any current or future EIS winter-use requirements.

Does The Park Have One???

2012-01-04T01:16:00.001-07:00

Yellowstone Volcano Videos

2011-11-26T07:48:00.000-07:00

NEED VOLCANO DATA ?

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NEW YELLOWSTONE DATABASE

2011-10-30T06:49:00.000-06:00

     The Wyoming State Geological Survey has completed their Yellowstone Geologic GIS Database that explores the geological wonders of Yellowstone National Park
   A note in the WYOMING BUSINESS REPORT details the scope and intent of the newly compiled database. A new website has been launched to showcase the data. It includes interactive sections and is well worth a click: HERE.
     This is a compilation of resources from many research entities and is provided in a single "searchable" database. As with any new website there are a couple of broken links and "page not found" errors.
     On the whole this is a very valuable GIS database and includes integrating links to Wyoming Geology and even provides a media gallery.

Winter Use Plan

2011-01-28T23:40:00.001-07:00

LINK

Native Fish Conservation

2010-12-25T13:52:00.004-07:00

20 YEAR EFFORT

Comment Now

no whiners

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.. The NATIVE FISH CONSERVATION PLAN is designed as a major effort to respond to the diminished stocks of native fish in Yellowstone National Park.
.. The Environmental Assessment is now open for public comment.

.. Mark your calendars; only two public meetings are scheduled:

* Bozeman, Montana: January 5th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the Comfort Inn, 1 370 North 7th Avenue
* Cody, Wyoming: January 6th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m., at the Holiday Inn, 1701 Sheridan Avenue.

.. Written comments may be submitted through the project web site, in person, by mail, or at either of the scheduled public meetings. Comments will not be accepted by phone, fax, or e-mail. All public comments must be received or postmarked by midnight, January 31, 2011.
.. Here are the important Links:
==> Project Home Page,
==> Project Plan Process,
==> Meeting Notices,
==> Project Links,
==> Document List,
==> Comment Form.

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.. The scoping meeting in West Yellowstone last April was poorly attended. No feather merchants were present, one local guide was present, and a handful of concerned fishers attended.
.. Input by these few interested parties helped shape the current document that is now open for review.
.. The EA addresses Lake Trout in Yellowstone Lake, other invasive species throughout the rivers in the park, the effects of climate change on native species, and disease.
.. Conservation efforts addressed include: increased gill netting in Yellowstone Lake, establishing barriers and weirs, removing non native species, restoring native populations, and a host of other actions including poisoning fish populations.
.. The key concept is conservation. The actions taken to implement this can be extensive, varied, and vast.
.. It's important that input at this time be concise, reasoned and rational. It will help steer the project and will certainly affect the fishscape of the future.
.. Please understand that, at base, this addresses the question of "What Is The Purpose Of Yellowstone National Park." Several guides have remarked that it does no good to replace one trout with another. They are just concerned with catching any fish.

.. Many guides and fishers of the park will be voicing opinions that catching fish, (the more - the better,) is what the park should provide.
.. There are others that feel it's important to remove all invasive species such as Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout and Brook Trout to foster the recovery of native Cutthroat Trout & Grayling(?).
.. Many feather merchants feel that the role of Yellowstone National Park is to provide fishing opportunities for recreational fishing, (and an economic base for their enterprise.)
.. Some conservationists believe that the only way to enable preservation of native fish is to "restore" the park to "natural" conditions, including removal all planted stocks of fish, (which is a large segment of the current fishable populations.)
.. Definition of terms and concepts will be argued and explored at the public meetings and in the submitted comments. Many oxen could be gored by this project.

.. The subtext of comments will be interesting to observe, as will the rationale behind the proposed actions in those comments.
.. Some fishers of Yellowstone have opined that since Brown Trout have been in the rivers for over 100 years that they are "native."
.. Does that make Lake Trout native if they survive another 70 years?
.. In another 100 years what will the descendants of those fishers say about Rock Snot, New Zealand Mud Snails, and other yet unforeseen invasive species?

.. As the waters warm will we see Yellowstone become a trophy fishery for Carp and Chubs and Largemouth Bass?
.. What will happen if some fool decides to dump Northern Pike or Muskellunge or Lake Trout in Hebgen Reservoir, right at Yellowstone's door?
.. Your input is necessary for the decision making process. We're talking about the future and how history will view the legacy that we leave.
.. Make no mistake about it, this is a significant project. It will last for 20 years, (1/5 of the next 100 years.) It will significantly affect the definition of Yellowstone National Park and it's role in species conservation and recovery.
.. It will also determine who fishes where and for what in the park. It is an historic effort that demands you input and your concern for how Yellowstone is defined: a fun and profitable fishery for visitors seeking "non-native," invasive trout or a refuge for indigenous species - or both.

Madison Idyll

2010-11-09T10:57:00.003-07:00

Gibbon River Bridge - Finished !

2010-10-22T23:25:00.006-06:00

THE PAVING IS FINISHED

The Bridge Is Beautiful
many perfect pull-outs

we're a bit sad

Just 60 Feet To A Beautiful Riffle And Run Stretch
On The Gibbon River: We Can Handle It!

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.. Final approval from the Division Of Federal Highways is expected on Wednesday - or so. The Gibbon River Bridge Project is about finished. It looks like a picture book.

New Picnic Area.

.. Rock work along the roadway blends with the native stone and is artistically done. The bright yellow and white paint on the roadway sets off the road like nothing else can. It won't be beautiful for long, but it will be ohhh sooo much nicer to travel.
.. The volcanic potholes are gone. The off-camber diminishing radius curves are a thing of the past. The abrupt shoulders are just a bad memory.
.. The lack of parking or pull-outs along the road between Gibbon Falls and Tuff Cliff has been remedied by the addition of at least 15 new, (and very spacious,) wide spots.
.. It's been over a decade in planning and construction. It's hard to describe the change. Simply put; it's a modern road, well designed and competently constructed.
.. There is no more fear for the impending disaster of an approaching motor home. Room for the contemporary condominiums on wheels was adequately provided for: now then, about the dotards behind their steering wheels.
.. We were treated to a brief tour of some of the improvements, (thanks guys,) and have a pile of images to show you.
.. We suspect that the fishing pressure along the Gibbon River, (below the falls,) will increase mightily because of the wonderfully placed parking areas. The neighbors are already planning where and how!

Wide Access & Stop Signs.

.. The old picnic area at the base of the falls is now a scenic pull-out with small hills and a twisty one way road, (paved just yesterday.)
.. There is a new picnic area up-grade from Gibbon Falls at Iron Springs. We haven't had the legs to climb to this area in over 30 years - nice to visit old friends.
.. There is now a monstrous parking area for vehicles above the falls and a nicely paved walking and viewing area with powder-coated handrails and giant boulders for sitting and decoration.
.. The overlook is just as spectacular and far safer than the old disaster area. There are traffic separators and the congestion that was so common in this area should be greatly reduced.
.. We're going to miss the easy access to the narrow canyon riffles above the falls. However, the person in charge of restoration of this section understands the needs of crippled old farts and has assured us that the walk along our favorite riffles will not be too strenuous.
.. We did have time to visit with the river about sundown, (just a pleasant 60 feet from our trusty horse,) and danced with a small Brown Trout. We are going to save full exploration of the new access points for next season, (it'll get us through the winter with sneaky planning.)
.. Enjoy the images below. They are fairly sizable and a click will fill your screen.

Brand New & Pretty As A Picture.

Beautiful, Strong, Unobtrusive Rock Work - CCC? WPA?

We Get To Inspect A New Fishing Access
At The Revamped Picnic Area Below Gibbon Falls - Woot, Woot!

Beautiful, Unobtrusive & Dead Straight - SAFE!

Plenty Of Room For "Hippos Of The Highway."

Lots OF Room & Good Visibility.
Note Silt Dam Along The River's Edge.

Just An Easy Cast From The Road.
Does It Get Any Better?

New Webcam

2010-10-01T03:55:00.000-06:00

GREAT WHEN UP

YVO SCORES

.. The Yellowstone Volcano Observatory is monitoring remote locations with a mobile, (Repeat "MOBILE") web cam.
.. The camera is subject to infrequent breakdowns and because of it's remote locations may be down for awhile when it poops out.
.. It's "UP" as we post this!

CURRENT JPG,
LOCATION MAP,
YVO PAGE.

LET'S HAVE $27,000.000

2010-09-01T10:07:00.003-06:00

REALISTIC VIEW

From New York

.. With the opening of the "Visitor Education Center" at Old Faithful comes an interesting and insightful note in the New York Times.
.. Try it - see if you like it.
.. The project, according to the FAST COMPANY, has given us the "Greening of Yellowstone." Now that's just dandy. Given the visitation it needs it.

Three Active Fires

2010-07-21T05:01:00.006-06:00

DOAN, BEACH, SLOUGH

Two Being Fought

-- There are three fires burning in Yellowstone National Park:

==> Doan Mountain,

==> Slough Creek,

==> Beach.

-- The Slough Creek and Beach fires are being actively fought. The Doan Mountain fire is smoldering and being monitored.

-- For complete information go to the InciWeb Yellowstone Page.

SNOW CLOSURES

2010-04-30T00:29:00.003-06:00

MANY ROADS CLOSED

Call Ahead

use the web

-- Periodic closures of some roads and entrances are occurring as the current spate of snow storms pass through the region.
==> Yellowstone Road Conditions: HERE.
==> Telephone: 307-344-2117
.

Hear All About It

2010-04-23T06:47:00.003-06:00

USPS + NPS = $$$$

Push Toward Centennial

.. Federal News Radio lets us know about the new coffee table book combining historic stamps and pretty pictures of some of the parks. The original idea came from an entrepreneurial postal employee.
.. Hear all about it HERE. See the book HERE.

Park Opens

2010-04-16T01:53:00.003-06:00

TODAY'S THE DAY

How 'bout 1939 ?

.. In 1939 if you flew into West Yellowstone you would be greeted by this lovely terminal building just off of Iris Street at the west side of town.
.. Now that's an adventure! Read it HERE.

Quick Peek

2010-03-27T06:25:00.005-06:00

JUST A QUICK VIDEO

PLOW THE PARK ?

2010-02-24T00:30:00.004-07:00

GRASS ROOTS ACTION

An Alternate View To Winter Travel

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-- Local citizens of West Yellowstone have established an organization and a website to advocate the position that plowing the road from West Yellowstone to Old Faithful would be advantageous on many fronts.
-- The website can be found HERE. Check it out if you would like to have access to Yellowstone's west side as well as the northern range in winter.

Back In Operation

2009-12-18T12:00:00.006-07:00

VIEW FROM WEB CAM
-- Thanks to the stalwart NPS employees the Mt. Washburn Fire Lookout Web Cam is back in operation. Spectacular views can be had by clicking HERE.

Gear Jammin'

2009-09-04T06:23:00.003-06:00

THE REAL WHITE'S

Stretch Their Legs

just good fun

-- The annual Gear Jammer's outing was a success on many fronts yesterday. The original vehicles got a chance to do what they were meant to do - tour. The drivers, (the best of the best,) got a chance to relive the pains and pleasures of driving these vintage limousines in their native setting. The vehicle aficionados got the experience of enjoying Yellowstone National Park in the comfort of bygone luxury.

-- There are two fleets of these vehicles in Yellowstone National Park. One fleet is used on a daily basis. This fleet is composed of vintage coachwork and modern Ford drivetrains. This is the fleet that visitors see traveling the roads of the park during the summer. The most recent conversions to modernity were completed a couple of years ago and have proven successful, (LINK.) Earlier conversions also used Ford drivetrains and sheet metal.

-- The second fleet of vehicles are the rare, early, original, & unrestored vehicles. These are true museum pieces that have been lovingly cared for by the park and it's concessionaires through the years. These vehicles need to be exercised periodically for their own good health.
-- In addition to the periodic "short jaunts" from the barn, (around Mammoth,) an annual "Run To West Yellowstone" is a traditional event for these majestic touring contrivances.
-- This exercise allows the staff to evaluate the vehicles under "real" conditions and diagnose any problems or maintenance issues that need tending to.
-- This year one of the limousines arrived on a trailer, (a fan nut went missing in action.) It was repaired in town and suffered the indignity of returning to Mammoth in perfect working order on the same trailer. Another success, and a proof of the utility of the exercise.
-- The gear jammers group, (these folks really love these vehicles,) arrived at Bullwinkle's Saloon & Eatery in West Yellowstone, Montana about 12:45.
.. Lunch consisted of: Cornish game hens or stuffed pork loin with fresh raspberry sauce, and Frenched sauteed beans with almond-bacon dressing. Soup, salad, rolls and mashed potatoes were also on the menu along with a juice cocktail and other beverages.

-- We enjoy the annual visits because it gives us a chance to examine these wonderful White Motors Convertible Limousine's. These vehicles serve to remind us of the way it used to be. Must have been grand.

Annual Arrival

2009-09-03T06:35:00.005-06:00

The White's At Bullwinkle's

arriving as you read this

photos tomorrow

Winter Use Reports

2009-08-22T06:45:00.006-06:00

DRAFT REPORTS

Comment Now

Old Snowcoaches nosiest
THE MONEY QUOTE

"The majority of these higher sound levels were
caused by old technology snowcoaches.
Sounds from both visitor and administrative
oversnow vehicles were included in this study."

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.. The 2009 draft reports for winter use are out. You can find them at: WINTER USE TECHNICAL DOCUMENTS. The two draft reports cover: noise, air pollution, wildlife reactions, and other issues.
.. Now that the commercial four stroke snowmobile fleet is quieter than old snowcoaches we anticipate that the winter use discussion will focus on the impact to animals generated by the concentrated mass of vehicles mandated by grouping sleds together in 'guided' tours.
.. There will probably not be much change in the stance of the traditional litigants in the winter use debate. Sadly there is entrenchment by all parties and they are still using both old data and misinformation in the public debates and harangues.
.. Arguments against snowmobiles are still focused on 2-stroke pollution & pictures that are over a decade old. Arguments for Bombardier snowcoaches ignore the crowded & restrictive nature of the experience and their decibel levels; both inside and outside of the vehicle.
.. The Acoustic Ecology Institute has followed the noise of sleds in the park and found similar results to the NPS studies.
.. In addition to the noise issue there is data that suggest that the current snowmobile fleet is even cleaner than the "BAT" snowcoaches, (LINK.) this data was produced two years ago and has only been used in court cases - not the public debates in the press.
.. A recent article in the Deseret News points out the kinds of arguments being used. The sad part of the whole debate is that enormous amounts of park monies and resources are being squandered defending and reiterating the "SCIENCE" that is misinterpreted.
.. This emotional battle is being fought along lines drawn in the snow by parties with vested interests so diverse that it promises to continue for another decade or more.

More User Friendly

2009-06-25T06:40:00.007-06:00

EASY ACCESS
FOR NEW STUFF

.. A convenient point of entry for new postings has been added to the Yellowstone National Park Website. Simply: What's New on the Yellowstone Website?
.. Now, once you become familiar with the myriad resources on the site, you can keep current with just two links:
-----> NEWS
-----> WHAT'S NEW
.. The newest of the new includes thirteen videos added this month and last month. You can find the list at: Inside Yellowstone Videos List.
.. An iTunes podcast subscription box is also included on each video page. Click HERE to see the Apollinaris Video.
.. The Yellowstone Digital Slide File continues to grow and now has over 13,000 images that are in the public domain.

Yellowstone Forever

2009-06-24T12:24:00.005-06:00

CLICK ON LETTER FOR LARGER VIEW.

Illegal In Yellowstone

2009-06-18T09:46:00.008-06:00

KEEP THIS IN MIND-------

.. From The Big Sky Weekly:

These actions are illegal in the park:

Possessing a firearm or weapon, including state-permitted;
Concealed weapons, except: Unloaded firearms may be transported in a vehicle when rendered inoperable or are packed, cased, or stored in a manner that prevents ready use;

Speeding (radar enforced)—except for a portion of U;S; 191, all roads within the park are posted at 45 mph or slower;

Driving while intoxicated (open container law enforced);

Leaving detachable side mirrors attached when not pulling trailers;

Traveling off-road by vehicle or bicycle; (bicycling rules and riding locations are listed in a free brochure at visitor center.);

Improperly storing food;

Fishing, boating, or using a float tube without a permit Violating camping regulations & rules
Camping outside of designated camping areas
Camping in the backcountry without a permit;

Driving or riding in a vehicle without your seatbelt fastened. Each vehicle occupant must have a safety belt or child restraint system fastened when the vehicle is in motion;

Having pets off leash or on trails and boardwalks; Pets are prohibited on all trails, in the backcountry, and in hydrothermal basins; Where allowed, pets must be leashed and must remain within 100 feet (30 m) of a road or parking area; Do not leave a pet unattended or tied to an object; Boarding facilities are available outside the park;

Littering;

Swimming in hydrothermal pools
Diving or jumping off cliffs in the Firehole swim area on Firehole Canyon Drive;

Traveling off boardwalks or designated trails in hydrothermal areas;

Removing or possessing natural (antlers, rocks, vegetation, etc;) or cultural (arrowheads, etc;) features;

Spotlighting (viewing with artificial light) elk, deer, or other animals;

Calling in elk by imitating their calls or using buglers;

Imitating wolf howls and using electronic equipment capable of tracking wildlife; and willfully remaining near or approaching wildlife, including birds, within any distance that disturbs or displaces the animal;

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In The Act

2009-05-24T07:45:00.007-06:00

EXPLOSION IMAGE

.. Wade Johnson, on a geology field trip led by Bob Smith of the University of Utah, captured an image of a rare event.
.. The May 17, 2009 hydrothermal explosion in Biscuit Basin was surprising but not dangerous - rare as it is. You can read all about it in yesterday's Jackson Hole Daily.

Busy Beavers

2009-05-18T09:39:00.009-06:00

GROWTH IN RESOURCES

YNP Web Site Goodies

nice work guys
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.. In the every expanding website for Yellowstone National Park is a section on "Publications Related To Yellowstone." From information on campgrounds to the Associated Tribes this resource gives a list of publications available for online consultation.
.. Most of the publications are in PDF format. One excellent, (and very large,) map of the park can be found HERE, this is the same map you receive when you enter the park.
.. Other resources include: Bison Natural History, Where are the Bloomin' Wildflowers?, Yellowstone and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, Exploring the History of Yellowstone National Park with John Colter.
.. Of course there are many other resources listed about the geology and biology and other topics relating to Yellowstone National Park. Many of these resources have existed previously on the site - it's nice to see them in a single place.
.. This page provides an excellent starting point for visitors and allows information to be appreciated prior to visiting the park.
.. Thanks go to the staff for keeping the site dynamic, and pertinent.

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click on image for large size

Foul Geysers

2009-04-25T19:32:00.015-06:00

YELLOWSTONE SCIENCE
SEES IT - SHOWS IT

A World Perspective

.. Vol. 17, #1 of Yellowstone Science has been published to the web. It's lead article is about the geysers of Yellowstone in a global perspective. The title is "HUMAN IMPACTS ON GEYSER BASINS."
.. The history of impacts and degradation to the geysers and thermal features in Yellowstone is documented.
.. The most significant cause of destruction and degradation can be laid, (directly or indirectly,) at the feet of "TOURISM."
.. And, it continues today with roads, trails, boardwalks, and other elements of the built environment encroaching on thermal basins in the name of access.
.. From the earliest days to the present the perception has been that appreciation of the features is best done "up close and personal."
.. This attitude demands destruction and degradation for the perceived need for appreciation.
.. Geothermal exploitation is also considered as a threat to the thermal features of Yellowstone. Two areas adjacent to Yellowstone National Park are mentioned, as is the monitoring of resources in the park.
.. Any persons with more than a passing interest in the history of thermal feature degradation in Yellowstone National Park should read this article.
--> PART ONE (PDF) [pages 1 - 18, includes geyser article]
--> PART TWO (PDF) [pages 19 - 37, includes other articles]

[sic]
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[CORRECT]

Google Earth Reveals Road

2009-04-19T04:22:00.006-06:00

YOU CAN SEE IT NOW

Looks Like Two 'Overlooks'

.. The most significant road construction and closure this summer will take place between Madison Junction and Norris Geyser Basin. There will be a new road alignment and bridge construction just above Gibbon Falls.
.. Recently added imagery at Google Earth shows the new alignment and the approximate position of the new bridge. The road in it's new alignment will follow the crest of the canyon rather than the bottom of the canyon.
.. Assurances have been given that the viewscape will not be disturbed. We hope that the permits for bungee jumping are not too expensive.

Giant Privy

2009-04-18T17:03:00.003-06:00

THE LATEST IN BIG ATTRACTIONS

The Mammoth Restroom

Ranger Smith's New Tires

2009-04-03T12:47:00.010-06:00

YOGI WATCHING CLOSELY

New Skins For Jellystone Fleet

.. On the first day of April, (irony?) the Michelin Man announced his take over of the commercial battleground known as Yellowstone National Park.
.. Michelin is now the "OFFICIAL TIRE OF THE YELLOWSTONE PARK FOUNDATION." Read it HERE.
.. The tire giant proposes ". . . to provide Michelin energy-saving tires to the Yellowstone National Park vehicle fleet. Adding Michelin tires will improve the fleet's fuel efficiency and lower CO2 emissions by an estimated 8 to 10 percent."
.. They will also ". . . engage in programs for Yellowstone employees that demonstrate how to improve fuel efficiency and maximize tire life through proper tire inflation."
.. It is important to remember that tires need to be properly inflated, as pointed out by the raft of lawsuits in the early part of this decade.
.. The Michelin Tire Company, (Michelin, B.F. Goodrich, Uniroyal and Kleber brands,) knows full well the implications of poorly inflated and defective tires, as illustrated by a raft of lawsuits: ( SOURCES, #1, #2, #3, #4.) Their experience and history should inform their program curricula for Yellowstone employees.
.. The benefits to Michelin and Yellowstone should soon become apparent. The park gets tires and service on the tires for it's fleet, (depending on how many vehicles this could be a substantial cost saving for the park.)
.. The tire giant gets advertising opportunities and the association with Yellowstone, (for better or worse.)
.. This is just the latest in a long list of commercial exploitations of Yellowstone. Little nibbles and bits continue to gnaw around the edges. Each is touted as "GOOD" - we'll wait and see. Toyota, Canon, Michelin, etc. - soon . . . . well, we will wait.

That's A Hot Name

2009-03-23T06:23:00.007-06:00

OUT OF THE PAST

"Bear With Me"

.. Via National Parks Traveler, comes this YouTube gem. 'Them Were the days.'

Sell Yellowstone ?

2009-03-16T12:36:00.008-06:00

FOLLOW THE BRITS EXAMPLE ?

What's It Worth ?

.. An interesting article in Time, (on line,) poses the possibility that the U.S.A. could sell government owned assets to bail out the economy and save the "American Way Of Life."
.. The British are planning to sell the Royal Mint and the National Mapping Agency. America could generate at least 20% of the cost of the new stimulus package by selling all the National Parks.
.. So, what is Yellowstone National Park worth? Time figures that it should go for about $4 billion. Perhaps there could be a bidding war between the Northern Pacific and Union Pacific like the good ol' days.
.. Now then, when the parks are all gone, what should we sell to cover the other 80% of the massive debt?

Care To Browse ?

2009-03-15T08:57:00.001-06:00

MSU ON FLICKR

Just A Sample

use the virtual finder

.. The personal, professional, and family photography collections of Frank Jay Haynes are again seeing the light of day - electronically.
.. Frank J. Haynes was the official photographer of the Northern Pacific Railroad and Yellowstone National Park.
.. Many of photographs were received by Montana State University with the donation of the Haynes family papers by Isabel May (Nauerth) Haynes in 1977.
.. The collection includes more than 5000 photographs, collectively referred to as the Haynes Family Collections.
.. The photograph collection was divided between the University and the Montana Historical Society in 1978 with the MHS receiving the bulk of the negatives and other items.
.. The Montana State University Library has a PRO FLICKR ACCOUNT with four excerpted image collections currently posted. The recently posted Haynes collection has 60 photos in the photostream.
.. The FLICKR images appear to be free from copyright limitations, although not necessarily free from third party restrictions. These are down-loadable under a creative commons license in many sizes.

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.. A complete catalog of the images in the collection, (most have been digitized,) is also available through the Montana State Library web site at: Haynes Family Photographs (Collection 1507). [Repository: Merrill G. Burlingame Special Collections at Montana State University Libraries.]
.. This catalog indexes the collection of 19 boxes, including original metal boxes, and is categorized in substantially chronological order, with topical subdivisions.
.. For the Haynes Family scholar, the collection contains a wealth of information about family, friends, trips, interests, and activities.
.. For those interested in Yellowstone National Park, the collection is an invaluable record of architecture, environment, policy, presidential visitation, tourism, transportation, and just plain-ol'-nostalgia.
.. If you've got the time and a good Internet connection, the browse is well worth the effort. We thank the Montana State University Library for this effort. We also appreciate the concern of the Haynes Family in making the images available to the interested public.

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.. Here's the catalog and links for the complete collection:

19 boxes

Series 1: Haynes Family, 1878-1965; Boxes 1-3, Box 4, files 1-14

Subseries 1: F. Jay Haynes Family, 1878-ca.1925; Subseries 2: Nauerth Family, 1885-1911; Subseries 3: Jack E. Haynes, 1885-1960; Subseries 4: Isabel M. Haynes, 1900-ca.1930; Subseries 5: Lida Haynes, 1932-1954; Subseries 6: Haynes Family, 1929-1961; Subseries 7: Haynes' Friends, ca.1920-ca.1965
Series 2: Yellowstone National Park, 1866-1963; Box 4, files 15-42, Boxes 5-6

Subseries 1: YNP Photographs, 1883-1963; Subseries 2: Greater Yellowstone Area and the "West", 1866-ca.1960; Subseries 3: Collection 1504 Separated Photographs, 1882-1963; Subseries 4: Unnamed Features in YNP, n.d.
Series 3: Oversized Photographs, 1884-1961; Box 7, Box 8, files 1-17

Subseries 1: Haynes Family and Friends, 1890-1961; Subseries 2: Other Topics, 1884-1961
Series 4: Pictorial Items, ca.1870-1920; Box 8, files 18-27, Box 9-13

Subseries 1: Detroit Photographic Company chromolithographs, ca.1870-ca.1910; Subseries 2: Prints, Haynes and others, 1870-1920; Subseries 3: Charles M. Russell reproductions, n.d.; Subseries 4: Haynes waterfall prints, hand-tinted, n.d.; Subseries 5: F. Jay Haynes Cabinet and Boudoir Photographs, ca.1883-
Series 5: Photograph Albums, 1890-1969; Box 14, 14A-18

Subseries 1: Disbound Albums, ca.1905-ca.1952; Subseries 2: Bound Albums, 1890-1969
-------

Panoramic Grand Prismatic

2009-03-14T06:26:00.004-06:00

via tip: Horse's Mouth
-------

.. Just click on the image and go! Use controls if you like. Zippy stuff!

.
Grand prismatic pool in USA.
.
Bryce Canyon, Utah in USA.

.. Check out the "Arches" just follow the arrow. If you have a good graphics card you can try this on your 26" monitor - WOW!

Canceled Again ?

2009-03-03T06:40:00.005-07:00

IS THIS THE END?

other opportunities exist

.. A single brief line on the West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce site says it all: CANCELED: Spring Cycle Tour. The tour was scheduled for May - If you were planning - don't!
.. Yellowstone National Park closes to over-the-snow travel on the 15th of this month. Shortly thereafter the roads are open to roller blade, tennis shoe, hiking boot, and bicycle travel - and it's free.
.. West Yellowstone is geared up to help visitors by April first and celebrates "Cycle Days" for the visitors without motorized travel.
.. We mention this now so you can watch the weather and plan your visit accordingly. The Yellowstone National Park information page is found under SPRING BICYCLING.

Sneak Peek

2009-02-28T07:29:00.007-07:00

O.F. VIRTUAL
VISITOR CENTER

Up And Running

nice job folks

.. The expansion of the Yellowstone National Park website continues with the compilation of the "Old Faithful Virtual Visitor Center." This is a work in progress sponsored by the National Science Foundation and the Yellowstone Park Foundation.
.. The linked pages of the center are attractive and surprisingly easy to navigate, (a welcome switch from most of the rest of the consolidated parks sites.)
.. Enter the OFVVC through the Lobby and explore the exhibits, maps and multimedia.
.. Use the text link at the bottom of the page to send your comments, requests, and reviews to the team that is developing this portion of Yellowstone's Website.
.. The floor plan of the virtual site is a sneak peek of the coming actual VC. The Multimedia Center features a compilation of much of the media scattered throughout the parent site and is an informational and educational gold mine.
.. The new media presentations are wonderfully simple and informative. High speed connections are recommended - and well worth the look. this page alone is worth a bookmark to watch developments.
.. In the morass of consolidation that the NPS has undertaken with their websites this segment stands out as a shinning example of what can be done. It's a really good show!
.. We hope that the OFVC lives up to the standard set by the OFVVC.

Avalanche Guys Video

2009-02-14T09:23:00.003-07:00

CORNICE CRASHING

Dangerous Form Of High-Marking
..

.. Read the Story HERE.

Edifice Complex

2009-01-31T19:24:00.005-07:00

NEW CENTER IS GRANDIOSE

But Not As Grand As Planned

.. Construction of the Old Faithful Visitors Center is progressing during the winter months.

Ten Year Visit

2009-01-28T12:51:00.005-07:00

BAEZ TO PERFORM IN BOZEMAN

Get Your Tickets Friday

Only 700 Seats

.. After a 10 year absence, Joan Baez will return to Bozeman, Montana. The March concert will be held in the 720-seat auditorium in the Emerson Center for Arts and Culture.
.. Tickets go on sale Friday at 10:00 AM. {LINK}

Great Fun

2009-01-19T04:48:00.011-07:00

CAMPING WITH

PRESIDENT THEODORE ROOSEVELT

.. A bit of a good read. Traveling on the train, the Badlands, a couple of weeks in Yellowstone, and leave the secret service in Gardiner: good work if you can get it.
.. Just good fun! John Burroughs' trip to Yellowstone with his buddy Ted in the Spring of 1903. It's all about touring and not a single mention of "The Arch." Published in 1906 in The Atlantic.

MONEY QUOTES
We spent two weeks in the Park, and had fair weather, bright, crisp days, and clear, freezing nights. The first week we occupied three camps that had been prepared, or partly prepared, for us in the northeast corner of the Park, in the region drained by the Gardiner River, where there was but little snow, and which we reached on horseback.

The cougars, or mountain lions, in the Park certainly needed killing. The superintendent reported that he had seen where they had slain nineteen elk, and we saw where they had killed a deer, and dragged its body across the trail. Of course, the President would not now on his hunting trips shoot an elk or a deer except to "keep the camp in meat," and for this purpose it is as legitimate as to slay a sheep or a steer for the table at home.

It is curious how certain things go to the bad in the Far West, or a certain proportion of them,—bad lands, bad horses, and bad men. And it is a degree of badness that the East has no conception of:—land that looks as raw and unnatural as if time had never laid its shaping and softening hand upon it; horses that, when mounted, put their heads to the ground and their heels in the air, and, squealing defiantly, resort to the most diabolically ingenious tricks to shake off or to kill their riders; and men who amuse themselves in barrooms by shooting about the feet of a "tenderfoot" to make him dance, or who ride along the street and shoot at everyone in sight. Just as old plutonic fires come to the surface out there in the Rockies, and hint very strongly of the infernal regions, so a kind satanic element in men and animals—an underlying devilishness—crops out, and we have the border ruffian and the bucking broncho.

One night in camp he told us the story of one of his Rough Riders who had just written him from some place in Arizona. The Rough Riders, wherever they are now, look to him in time of trouble. This one had come to grief in Arizona. He was in jail. So he wrote the President, and his letter ran something like this:—
'DEAR COLONEL,—I am in trouble. I shot a lady in the eye, but I did not intend to hit the lady, I was shooting at my wife.'

.

.. Want to know more about John Burroughs? CLICK HERE.

ANS WORKING GROUP FORMED

2009-01-17T08:29:00.002-07:00

GREATER YELLOWSTONE
COORDINATING COMMITTEE
FORMS ANS WORKING GROUP

Our Neighbors Are Great

.. The formal announcement of this action oriented working group can be found at Protect Your Waters. We salute the concern and selfless efforts of all involved. Here's the full text.

. . . . The Greater Yellowstone Area (GYA) is a global asset that is treasured for its natural beauty, geological wonders, biological diversity and plethora of recreational opportunities. People from all over the world visit the GYA to enjoy its natural wonders and resources. The GYA is the headwaters for three major river systems that are of immeasurable economic importance to the United States.

The unique ecological and economic values of the GYA are now being threatened by aquatic invaders, or aquatic nuisance species (ANS). These non-native mussels, plants, snails, and other introduced species have the potential to severely impact the region’s ecosystem, tourism, agriculture, hydropower, and businesses.

To better combat these invaders, Federal, state, and county agencies have partnered with organizations, outfitters, and businesses to protect the GYA from ANS, by creating a working group of the Greater Yellowstone Coordinating Committee. The value of this unified approach includes the pooling of resources, knowledge, and energy as well as avoiding the duplication of efforts. This approach moves government entities to a proactive approach that empowers individuals and harnesses the power of the private sector to change behaviors. This collaborative group has prepared a strategic plan and is developing an accompanying implementation plan. Their goals are to:

• Prevent new introductions of ANS into waters of the GYA.
• Limit the spread of established populations of ANS into uninfested waters.
• Abate harmful ecological, socioeconomic and public health and safety impacts resulting from infestations of ANS within the GYA.
• Provide a cooperative environment that encourages coordinated activities among all interested parties throughout the GYA.

Key action items include survey, research, outreach/education, and control. Surveying for ANS in and around the GYA will provide essential insight into existing conditions. This element of the implementation plan is currently under-funded and the group is seeking funds to accomplish it with a GYA-wide approach.

ANS pose an immediate threat to the waters of the GYA. All those involved recognize that everyone who lives, works, or plays in the GYA needs to work cooperatively to prevent the spread of ANS.

For more information on how to get involved to protect the GYA from ANS, please contact the Chair of the GYA-Wide ANS Working Group, James Capurso (Caribou-Targhee National Forest) at 208-557-5780.

Atlas On Track

2009-01-16T11:42:00.001-07:00

UNIVERSITY OF
OREGON LEADS EFFORT

Local & Regional Groups Involved

go get a coffee table
-------
(P.S. // HE'S Back)click on all images for detailed enlargement

.. As we reported last April, the Atlas Of Yellowstone is chugging toward completion in 2010.
.. From exploration to bison migration, from the 1988 fires to fish, and from invasive species to drainage basins, this atlas promises to be both a wonderful decoration for your coffee table, (go get one,) and a valuable resource for visitors.
.. The preview maps, thematic guidance, and table of contents reveal the depth of the project and also reflect the extensive expertise of our collaborating neighbors, ( Yellowstone National Park, the University of Wyoming, Montana State University, the Museum of the Rockies and Big Sky Institute at MSU, and the Draper Museum of Natural History at the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, Wyo.)
.. Four themes have guided the compilation of the atlas: 1] variations in time and space, 2] Yellowstone is connected, 3] Human-nature interactions, 4] The importance of Yellowstone.
.. We haven't heard of, or seen any indication that spectacular fishing localities are included - BUT, you never know.
.. The atlas is planned for 300 pages and offers exceptional GIS resources. A sneak peek of the maps are included in a gallery at the information site, [[ MAP GALLERY. ]] The Table of Contents [PDF] is worth browsing for those of you that anticipate a need, (desire,) for this volume.
.. And, if you would like to help the project along there is a place for your $$$$. Your name and contribution will be listed in the atlas as a friend of Yellowstone.

500 And Counting

2009-01-05T13:12:00.003-07:00

A CALL FOR
BETTER UNDERSTANDING

If Possible

.. Consensus is that the recent earthquake swarm may or may not be significant: -- BUT WE NEED A BETTER UNDERSTANDING. Read a cogent article HERE.

Under The Radar ?

2009-01-03T04:47:00.004-07:00

HARMONIC TREMORS
HIDE METHANE NEWS

How Much Earth Shaking In Extraction ?

.. The hubub of the earthquake swarm in Yellowstone National Park has overshadowed the recent Bush decision that allows the possibility of over 18,000 natural gas wells in the Powder River Basin, (AP Story.)
.. This is a concern to the residents and others. Water, surface, geothermal, and other concerns are beginning to be focused on.
.. STAY TUNED.

Be Avalanche Aware

2008-12-29T09:03:00.013-07:00

YELLOWSTONE AND
SURROUNDING AREA

Be Informed

.. Resources for The West Yellowstone Area (and Yellowstone National Park):
- Current Advisories
- Audio (right now)
- Podcast (right now - or sign up)
- Email (sign up)
- Current Videos (Avalanche Guy's You Tube Channel)

.. From the hard working folks at the Gallatin National Forest Avalanche Center. Thanks !!

Earthquake Swarm

2008-12-28T07:49:00.005-07:00

RISING DOME IN LAKE SHAKES

Seventeen In A Day

.. Just a note to remind us all that earthquakes can cause avalanches. For real time information visit the sites listed in the masthead.

White Bark Pines

2008-12-22T10:01:00.003-07:00

NEW CANKER

Norton's Revenge

2008-11-10T08:34:00.004-07:00

QUICK AND DIRTY

Look Out Utah

arches in peril

.. The Bush Administration is doing with a stroke of the pen what Gale Norton tried to do within the system -- and failed.
.. Big Oil is working hard these last few days of the present administration. Look for more to come.
.. Read it HERE.

Winter Use Plan?

2008-11-04T10:00:00.004-07:00

LESS SNOWMACHINES

Same Coaches

.. The NPS has released a draft plan for comment. Read it and comment. Here's the press release:

PARKS SEEK PUBLIC COMMENT ON NEW WINTER USE PROPOSAL
New plan would provide for limited, guided snowmobile and snowcoach travel

Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks are seeking public comment on a new plan to guide the management of winter use in the parks.

The previous plan was rejected by a federal judge in Washington, D.C., in September. Neither snowmobiles nor snowcoaches can be allowed in the parks this winter without a new plan and new regulation.

The preferred alternative would allow up to 318 commercially guided, Best Available Technology (BAT) snowmobiles, and up to 78 commercially guided snowcoaches in a day in Yellowstone. The 2008-2009 winter season is scheduled to begin Monday, December 15, 2008.

The preferred alternative would also provide for motorized oversnow travel over Sylvan Pass and Yellowstone’s East Entrance road as agreed to by the Sylvan Pass Study Group this past summer.

The daily snowmobile limit is slightly above last winter’s average of 294 snowmobiles a day. It is well below the 720 a day allowed the past four winters, and lower than the 540 snowmobiles a day that would have been allowed this winter under the plan rejected by the court. The daily snowcoach limit is the same as allowed during the past four years.

In Grand Teton and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr. Memorial Parkway, grooming and motorized oversnow travel on the Continental Divide Snowmobile Trail (CDST) between Moran Junction and Flagg Ranch would be discontinued. However, those interested in through travel on the CDST could transport their snowmobiles on trailers between these locations.

Twenty-five snowmobiles a day would be allowed to travel on the Grassy Lake Road, with no BAT or guiding requirement. Twenty-five unguided, BAT snowmobiles a day would also be allowed on Jackson Lake to facilitate ice fishing by those possessing appropriate fishing gear and a valid State of Wyoming fishing license.

The plan would be in effect for a period of up to three winters for Yellowstone. It would provide long term direction for winter use management in Grand Teton and the Parkway.

Park managers believe an approach including both snowmobile and snowcoach access reduces impacts of both to acceptable levels. This environmental assessment addresses the impact concerns raised by the recent ruling of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia.

The Winter Use Plans Environmental Assessment (EA) and an electronic form to submit comments on the Internet can be found on the web at http://parkplanning.nps.gov. Written comments may be submitted through this web site, in person, or by mail. Comments will not be accepted by phone, fax, or e-mail. All public comments must be received or postmarked by midnight, November 17, 2008.

A proposed rule to implement the preferred alternative contained in the new plan will be published in a few days in the Federal Register, and will also be open for a 15-day public review and comment period. The rulemaking process supports, but is separate from, the public review and comment period on the EA. The proposed rule and an electronic form to submit written comments will be available on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov. You can find the proposed rule by searching the “Documents Open For Public Comment” and selecting the National Park Service as the agency.

Once comments are analyzed, the National Park Service will make a decision on the proposed plan. If the preferred alternative is selected, the Regional Director of the Intermountain Region of the National Park Service would sign a Finding Of No Significant Action (FONSI) containing details of his decision.

A final rule would have to be prepared and published in the Federal Register in order to implement the FONSI and provide for motorized oversnow vehicle travel in the parks this winter. The National Park Service expects to have a decision regarding winter use management prior by the December 15, 2008, scheduled start to the winter season.

Both the EA and the proposed rule are available on CD or in hard copy by writing the National Park Service, Management Assistant’s Office, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190. Document requests may also be made by sending an e-mail to Yellowstone Winter Use; by calling 307-344-2019 during normal business hours; or by sending a request by fax to 307-344-2025.

- NPS -

P.S. / Cycle Tour

2008-10-10T09:03:00.004-06:00

CAN THE WEATHER
STOP OUTDOOR CYCLISTS?

Keep Up To Date

CANCELED !!

.. "in the effort to help participants plan accordingly, the Bicycle Committee will make a decision on the status of the ride at 9AM on Friday, October 10. At this time, we will assess current weather conditions and forecasts. If conditions look favorable, the ride will go on as scheduled. If conditions are deemed unsafe, the ride will be canceled."
Phone: 406-599-4465
Web: CYCLE TOUR

P.S. At 9am on Friday morning, the temperature in West Yellowstone hovers around 20 and there is a fresh dusting of snow on the ground. Although road conditions at this moment could support plans to go ahead with the tour, all forecasts are predicting with at least 90% certainty that a large scale Pacific storm will reach us by this afternoon leaving an accumulation of snow. With these predictions looming and riders’ safety our first priority, the West Yellowstone Chamber of Commerce is forced to cancel the Fall Cycle Tour scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday October 11, 2008.

It's Cycle Time

2008-10-09T09:17:00.008-06:00

BRING YOUR WOOLLIES

Two Feed Stations & Warming Hut

in 31 miles ?

.. The Fall Cycle Tour is happening this Saturday, October 11 2008. For more information call 406-599-4465, or visit the web site to register. There are only 25 spots left for this year's tour.
.. This should be the tour to provide stories of a lifetime.

-------

MONEY QUOTE FROM THE SITE

We will have two feed stations along the route again this year. The first will be located at Madison Junction and the second will be located at Old Faithful. We still recommend that you carry enough food to keep you energized and we will provide a few portable snacks at registration. Those of you concerned about your ability to ride the entire 60 miles need not worry. The route is patrolled by 2 or 3 sag wagons (vans with trailers) that, once full, can give you a lift back to West Yellowstone. Two mechanics, Les from Yellowstone Bicycle and Melissa from Freeheel and Wheel, also patrol the route to help with repairs and flat tires.

They're Here

2008-09-19T10:42:00.001-06:00

Growing Pains

2008-07-27T09:11:00.003-06:00

REVAMPED
&
MORE COMPREHENSIVE

Oh My -- Oh Ranger

.. The ohranger.com site is undergoing a complete revision and rebuild. We'll wait and see what the final outcome is.

MONEY QUOTE:

We've been America's leading publisher of visitor guides for national parks for more than two decades, reaching visitors during their planning stages at home and again while they're on the road exploring America.

Hungry

2008-07-24T06:18:00.005-06:00

BEARS EAT TWO HUMANS

Kamchatka Fish Poaching Blamed

.. Via Moldy Chum: The Guardian.co.uk reports that two mine workers were killed and eaten by hungry bears.

MONEY QUOTE:
Up to 30 hungry and desperate bears have attacked and eaten two men in Russia's wild far eastern region of Kamchatka, and have trapped a group of geologists at their remote site.
The bears - apparently starving - killed the men last Thursday, Russian agencies reported. The bears had surrounded a local platinum mining company. Both victims worked at the mine as security guards.
About 400 geologists and miners are now refusing to return to work, afraid of further attacks. Attempts by local officials to fly to the scene by helicopter and shoot the bears have so far failed, because of bad weather, agencies reported.

.. With the rapidly disappearing Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout and the increasing bear population in central Yellowstone, we wonder if this is a situation soon to be faced in our nation's first park?

Happy Fourth Of July, Y'all

2008-07-04T12:22:00.002-06:00

POISEN AWAITS YOU

2008-06-30T12:56:00.003-06:00

LOVE MORELS ??

COOK THEM WELL

.. Straight from New West: "Morel Mushroom Poisonings Up In Montana . . ."

Morel mushroom poisonings have recently increased in Idaho and Montana, according to the Rocky Mountain Poison and Drug Center.

The Center wants us all to know that it’s dangerous to eat raw, dried, or partially cooked morels, and it’s also unsafe to drink wine or other alcohol with any morels, cooked or not.

Morel poisoning causes impressive, repeated vomiting, usually right after you eat those bad boys.

From the Center’s press release, it’s easy to tell that this is more than a dodgy situation – it’s serious.

Do not drink and eat morels, cook them to death, and reject the dried kind.

“Impressive vomiting” is enough for me.

More Weather

2008-06-12T11:29:00.003-06:00

FROM THE NWS

Snow Advisory

/O.EXT.KRIW.SN.Y.0043.000000T0000Z- 080612T2100Z/ YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK- INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...LAKE... MAMMOTH...OLD FAITHFUL 902 AM MDT THU JUN 12 2008
...SNOW ADVISORY NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 3 PM MDT THIS AFTERNOON...

THE SNOW ADVISORY IS NOW IN EFFECT UNTIL 3 PM MDT THIS AFTERNOON.

OCCASIONAL SNOW WILL CONTINUE ACROSS YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK THROUGH 3 PM TODAY. 1 TO 4 INCHES OF SNOW HAS FALLEN AT MANY AREAS ACROSS THE PARK WITH UP TO 7 INCHES AT SYLVAN LAKE. A SNOW TOTAL OF 4 TO 8 INCHES IS EXPECTED WITH AS MUCH AS 6 TO 12 INCHES EXPECTED OVER SYLVAN PASS NEAR THE EAST ENTRANCE BY 3 PM TODAY. MUCH LESSER AMOUNTS OF AN ADDITIONAL INCH OR TWO ARE EXPECTED AT MAMMOTH HOT SPRINGS AND THE WEST ENTRANCE. ROADS ABOVE 8000 FEET ARE EXPECTED TO REMAIN OR BECOME SLICK AND SNOW PACKED THROUGH THIS MORNING.

A SNOW ADVISORY MEANS THAT PERIODS OF SNOW WILL CAUSE PRIMARILY TRAVEL DIFFICULTIES. BE PREPARED FOR SNOW COVERED ROADS AND LIMITED VISIBILITIES...AND USE CAUTION WHILE DRIVING. ROADS CAN BECOME ESPECIALLY SLICK WHEN THE TEMPERATURE OF THE ROAD SURFACE IS CLOSE TO FREEZING.

VISITORS TO THE PARK SHOULD BE PREPARED FOR UNSEASONABLY COLD AND WET CONDITIONS AND THE LIKELIHOOD OF ROAD CLOSURES INTO AND THROUGHOUT THE PARK TODAY.

Spring Snow

2008-06-11T07:51:00.002-06:00

BRING YOUR LONG JOHNS

URGENT - WINTER WEATHER MESSAGE
NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE GREAT FALLS MT
621 AM MDT WED JUN 11 2008
MTZ008-014-015-052-055-111800-
/O.CON.KTFX.HS.W.0007.000000T0000Z-080612T0000Z/

BEAVERHEAD-CENTRAL AND SOUTHERN LEWIS AND CLARK-MADISON-JEFFERSON-
GALLATIN-

INCLUDING THE CITIES OF...DILLON...HELENA...LINCOLN...ENNIS...
BOULDER...BOZEMAN...WEST YELLOWSTONE
621 AM MDT WED JUN 11 2008

...HEAVY SNOW WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM MDT THIS
AFTERNOON FOR ELEVATIONS ABOVE 5000 FEET...
A HEAVY SNOW WARNING REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 6 PM MDT THIS
AFTERNOON FOR ELEVATIONS ABOVE 5000 FEET.

SNOW...HEAVY AT TIMES...WILL CONTINUE THROUGH THIS AFTERNOON. BY
LATE THIS AFTERNOON...3 TO 9 INCHES OF SNOW ACCUMULATION ARE
EXPECTED AT ELEVATIONS BETWEEN 5000 AND 7000 FEET...WHILE THE
MOUNTAINS ARE EXPECTED TO RECEIVE BETWEEN 9 AND 14 INCHES OF
SNOW.

EXPECT VISIBILITIES TO BE REDUCED TO LESS THAN ONE QUARTER OF A
MILE AT TIMES IN HEAVY SNOW. TRAVEL CONDITIONS IN THE WARNING
AREA WILL BECOME HAZARDOUS THROUGH THIS AFTERNOON.
ADDITIONALLY...THIS WILL BE A VERY WET SNOW. IN AREAS THAT
RECEIVE HEAVY SNOW ACCUMULATIONS...THERE COULD BE SOME POWER
OUTAGES OR DAMAGE TO TREES THAT HAVE LEAFED OUT.

A HEAVY SNOW WARNING MEANS SEVERE WINTER WEATHER CONDITIONS ARE
EXPECTED OR OCCURRING. SIGNIFICANT AMOUNTS OF SNOW ARE FORECAST
THAT WILL MAKE TRAVEL DANGEROUS. ONLY TRAVEL IN AN EMERGENCY. IF
YOU MUST...KEEP AN EXTRA FLASHLIGHT...FOOD...AND WATER IN YOUR
VEHICLE IN CASE OF AN EMERGENCY.

----------------

HOTSPOTS

2008-05-30T17:47:00.006-06:00

ARTIST PAINTPOTS CLOSED TEMPORARILY

..The Artists Paintpots area in Yellowstone National Park has been temporarily closed due to visitor safety concerns. The area is located along a one mile loop trail east of the Grand Loop road, about two and a half miles south of Norris Junction.
.. A visitor was injured yesterday afternoon when she was hiking on the established dirt trail with family members. Utah resident Jeanette Hogan says she stepped in a surface puddle of rainwater along the edge of the trail when the crust beneath gave way. She broke through to a previously undiscovered pool of hot water, and received burns to her ankle and lower
leg.
.. Members of a park s trail crew were working on another section of the Artists Paintpots trail at the time of the accident. Crew members were able to provide immediate first aid and summon park emergency personnel, who took the patient by ambulance to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center in Idaho Falls. The extent of Hogan s injuries and current condition are
unavailable.
.. Park geologists are currently evaluating the area. The water in the pool is 171 degrees Fahrenheit. Water boils at about 197 degrees Fahrenheit at that altitude. The water at the surface of the hot pool was found to be slightly acidic, with a pH similar to vinegar.
.. The parking lot and trail will remain temporarily closed until the area can be safely reopened to visitors.

Nice Old Inn

2008-04-28T09:04:00.003-06:00

Just A Nice Day & Night

2008-04-19T11:53:00.002-06:00

Spring (for a day) Bike Ride

2008-04-13T15:59:00.012-06:00

A PERFECT DAY FOR IT

Just Don't Get Used To It

yet

.. A time comes when all the elements are just perfect. Take advantage of it. Today was the perfect day for a spring bike ride in Yellowstone National Park. This early spring ritual is available to all who should choose to gamble on the weather and construction. The closer you live to Yellowstone - the better your chances of having a perfect time. It's a perquisite of living near "Wonderland."
.. The roads have miraculously appeared from beneath the snow. Only the wildlife, construction crews, and administrative travel are on the roads. The historic canopy from the old entrance station has been moved to the new entrance station and construction is moving at an appropriate pace.
.. The visitors that arrived on this perfect day displayed license plates from Idaho, Utah, Wyoming, California, and Montana. The streets adjacent to the park entrance filled up early and bikers of all stripes ventured to the park.
.. Walkers, joggers, runners, skaters, bladers, and boarders are welcomed to the park for free during the shoulder seasons and it is a joy.
.. Should you find yourself in the neighborhood, and be sans wheels; fear not!
.. There are two bicycle shops and this is as busy as it gets for both of them. They have trailers for the youngsters, and bicycles for whatever style of riding you chose to enjoy.
.. Recumbent, road bikes, trail bikes, balloon tires, tandem, you name it you get it.
.. While in town the most exciting thing, other than being mowed down by a bicyclist, is the new roof being installed on the Union Pacific Dining Lodge. This structure has nearly 1/2 acre of roof. It is an Underwood building and is on the National Register of Historic Places. As such the shingles had to be specially ordered and manufactured. The crane was erected last fall and work progressed until the snow became too deep. Roofing resumed last week and is well underway.
.. Should you choose to take advantage of the free entrance and the uncrowded roads, be advised that not all days are like today. And there won't be many more between now and the 18th when the 35 foot recreational vehicles descend upon Yellowstone.

---------

It's Still Winter

2008-04-03T08:27:00.002-06:00

Yellowstone For The Bicyclists

2008-03-22T23:47:00.003-06:00

JUST A BIT COLD

But A Wonderful Experience

.. The first bicycle tour of Yellowstone National Park took place in 1883, when three members of the Laramie, Wyoming, Bicycle Club came to visit.
.. In June of the following year W.O. Owen wrote a piece for "OUTING."

To three members of the Laramie Bicycle Club — C. S. Greenbaum, W. K. Sinclair and W. O. Owen — belongs the honor of having made the first wheel tour of the Yellowstone National Park, and, having been appointed historian on this memorable trip, it falls to my lot to set down the incidents of the journey for the readers of Outing. There are two routes open to residents of Wyoming; one lies by way of Bozeman, Mon., the other via Beaver Cañon, Idaho. (HTML - PDF)

.. Ever since that historic outing bicycles have been welcomed in Yellowstone National Park. However as stage roads gave way to auto roads, and auto roads became more congested the bicycle has become less common, and is now both a dangerous and congestive mode of transport in Yellowstone.
.. The shoulder seasons belong to the bicyclists. There are only bears, bison, bears, cougars, bears, eagles, bears, waterfowl, bears, and a few administrative travelers on the roads. If you pick the right day, and have prepared well, there is nothing like a Spring bike ride in Yellowstone.
.. Because of construction at the West Entrance, and bears in the Old faithful area there are new restrictions on bicycle travel this year.

READ THE FOLLOWING IN PREPARATION
FOR YOUR SPRING RIDE

-- National Park Service Press Release
-- Yellowstone Park 'Spring Bicycling' Page
-- Yellowstone Park 'Hiking In The Park' Page
-- Yellowstone Park Bears Resource Page
-- Yellowstone Park Pet Regulations, your pet dog cannot run free beside your bicycle - no matter who you are.
-- Yellowstone Park Rules and Regulations,
-- Yellowstone Park 'Viewing Wildlife' Page
.. Many people, including Park Rangers, Park Employees, Concessionaire Employees, and self styled "experts" get hurt every year because they treat wildlife viewing as a game or a pleasant sport. Don't be fooled: if you join a screaming crowd of bicycle riders ooohing and aaahing this Spring, you too may become a target.
.. The videos below are from the Yellowstone Park Video Page. There is more danger and stupidity there if you care to look.
Bison Trees Visitor
Bison at Old Faithful

In 1896 the 25th Infantry rode, walked, and carried their bicycles cross country to Yellowstone Park, 500 miles from their Fort Missoula base. They pose below on Minerva Terrace at the town of Mammoth Hot Springs in a photograph taken and hand colored by Yellowstone's official freelance photographer F. Jay Haynes (1853-1921). Note that the troops mounted from the left side of the bike, according to the custom for mounting a horse. (FROM: Northern Rockies Heritage Center.)

The Straight Skinny

2008-03-06T10:00:00.004-07:00

JUST THE CAMS, MA'AM

.. The Yellowstone National Park website has a web cam page that is always current, and so far always correct. It's originality in titling is wonderful: Yellowstone National Park's WebCams. For those of you that like to view the park from afar - this is a blessing.
.. The recently added streaming camera at Old Faithful has had some glitches and some address changes, during it's set up and the usual tinkering that goes along with new installations of this sort. You can always be sure of your address or link if you go to the above mentioned page.
.. Come July and August the air quality cameras should prove interesting - given the price of gas and it's continuing escalation.

------------------

.. As an aside, the NPS photo above shows a genuine UFO captured by the Old Faithful Web Cam. Don't believe it? Go to the National UFO Center for more information.
.. And, the current streaming web cam is the outgrowth of discussions with the Ames Research Center in their development of the 2005 wayside interpretive center. But - it seems that Mars and Yellowstone have stopped being a topic of discussion.

-------------------

.. Finally, the west entrance station will have it's old canopy moved to the new entrance station and the construction will hamper free access during the shoulder season. Read the NPS Press Release.

It's Birthday Time Again

2008-03-01T12:56:00.004-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY YELLOWSTONE

And Many Happy Returns

.. As is our tradition, here is the text of the 1872 bill and the "Grant Signature"

----------------------------

Forty-Second Congress. Session II Ch. 21-24. 1872. March 1, 1872. CHAP. XXIV. -- An Act to set apart a certain Tract of Land lying near the Head-waters of the Yellowstone River as a public Park.

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the tract of land in the Territories of Montana and Wyoming, lying near the head-waters of the Yellowstone river, and described as follows, to wit, commencing at the junction of Gardiner's river with the Yellowstone river, and running east to the meridian passing ten miles to the eastward of the most eastern point of Yellowstone lake; thence south along said meridian to the parallel of latitude passing ten miles south of the most southern point of Yellowstone lake; thence west along said parallel to the meridian passing fifteen miles west of the most western point of Madison lake; thence north along said meridian to the latitude of the junction of the Yellowstone and Gardiner's rivers; thence east to the place of beginning, is hereby reserved and withdrawn from settlement, occupancy, or sale under the laws of the United States, and dedicated and set apart as a public park or pleasuring-ground for the benefit and enjoyment of the people; and all persons who shall locate or settle upon or occupy the same, or any part thereof, except as hereinafter provided, shall be considered trespassers and removed therefrom.

SECTION 2. That said public park shall be under the exclusive control of the Secretary of the Interior, whose duty it shall be, as soon as practicable, to make and publish such rules and regulations as he may deem necessary or proper for the care and management of the same. Such regulations shall provide for the preservation, from injury or spoliation, of all timber, mineral deposits, natural curiosities, or wonders within said park, and their retention in their natural conditions. The secretary may in his discretion, grant leases for building purposes for terms not exceeding ten years, of small parcels or ground; at such places in said park as shall require the erection of buildings for the accommodation of visitors; all of the proceeds of said leases, and all other revenues that may be derived from any source connected with said park, to be expended under his direction in the management of the same, and the construction of roads and bridle-paths therein. He shall provide against the wanton destruction of the fish and game found within said park, and against their capture or destruction for the purposes of merchandise or profit. He shall also cause all persons trespassing upon the same after the passage of this act to be removed therefrom, and generally shall be authorized to take all such measures as shall be necessary or proper to fully carry out the objects and purposes of this act.

APPROVED March 1st 1872
U. S. Grant (Signed)

--------------------

Yellowstone Plans Plowing

2008-02-29T22:54:00.005-07:00

PLOW DAYS ANNOUNCED

West Yellowstone Clears Streets

The National Park Service announced the Spring plowing schedule yesterday. The entire press release is reproduced below:

---------------

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 28, 2008 08-011
Al Nash or Stacy Vallie (307) 344-2015

----------------------------------------------------
YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK NEWS RELEASE
----------------------------------------------------

Spring Plowing to Begin in Yellowstone National Park

With the impending arrival of spring comes the end of the winter season and over-the-snow travel in Yellowstone National Park.

Park roads will begin to close to snowmobiles and snowcoaches in preparation for spring plowing. Beginning at 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 2, groomed roads from Mammoth to Norris will be closed, followed by the closure of Norris to Madison and Norris to Canyon at 9:00 p.m., on Tuesday, March 4. All remaining groomed roads will close to oversnow vehicles at 9:00 p.m. on Sunday, March 9.

The road from the North Entrance at Gardiner, Montana, to Cooke City, Montana, at the park's Northeast Entrance, is open all year to automobiles, weather permitting.

Visitor facilities will also close for the winter season according to the following schedule:

Saturday, March 1
Last night for lodging at Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel

Sunday, March 2
Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room closes after breakfast
Mammoth and Indian Creek warming huts and Mammoth fuel station close at 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, March 8
Last night for lodging at Old Faithful Snow Lodge

Sunday, March 9
Old Faithful Snow Lodge Dining Room closes after breakfast
Old Faithful Geyser Grill & Gift Shop close after dinner

The following facilities will close at 5:00 p.m.: warming huts at Madison, Canyon, Fishing Bridge, Old Faithful and West Thumb; fuel stations at Old Faithful, Fishing Bridge and Canyon; and the Old Faithful Visitor Center.

At Mammoth, the Yellowstone General Store, clinic, campground, and Albright Visitor Center are open all year.

Plowing operations will begin this Friday on the road from Tower Junction to Tower Fall to allow for administrative travel in order to conduct rehabilitation of the Tower Fall restrooms. The plowing of this segment will affect cross-country skiing access to the Lost Lake Trail and the Tower Fall/Chittenden Loop. Although no public vehicle access will be allowed, the road will be accessible on foot or bicycle. Please watch for falling rock along this segment of road.

The road beyond the Tower Fall Store will not be open to bicycles until conditions allow, after May 8.
Weather permitting, the roads will begin opening again to vehicles on Friday, April 18, from Mammoth to Old Faithful; Madison to the West Entrance and Norris to Canyon. The roads from Canyon to Lake and from Lake to the East Entrance are scheduled to open on Friday, May 2; Lake to the South Entrance and West Thumb to Old Faithful, Tower to Tower Fall on Friday, May 9; and Tower Fall to Canyon over Dunraven Pass on Friday, May 23.

Yellowstone's weather is very unpredictable. Always be prepared for a range of conditions. Updated Yellowstone National Park road information is available 24 hours a day by calling (307) 344-2117.

As Warm As June

2008-02-24T13:26:00.003-07:00

AND SNOWING

Eclipse

2008-02-20T23:44:00.004-07:00

8:18 Old Faithful

Amazingly Rational

2008-02-20T11:22:00.006-07:00

A VERY GOOD READ

finally !

.. With the warmth of terminal winter comes a very fine article from George Wuerthner over at New West. No "Breast Beating," no "Post Pissing," no "Whining," and no "Bleeding Heart," in this: just a succinct, rational, factual analysis of a pressing problem.
.. Bison die variously at this time of year. One way they die is their removal from lands outside of Yellowstone National Park by the interagency task force. They are then slaughtered. They are rounded up and killed by agreement between: Montana, Yellowstone Park, and the USDA.
.. The agreement is ill-founded and needs review and augmentation. Wurthner provides a cogent analysis of the situation and the article deserves a complete reading.
.. Theatrical moaning, verbal whining, and poor reporting cannot bring about a change in the policy. Rational, factual, and informed discussion has a better chanch -- and Wurthner shows us the way.

Thanks George !

Winter's Warmth

2008-02-17T21:51:00.004-07:00

TAKE A MINUTE

Thanks to Mike Bryers

Winter's Rewards

2008-02-12T10:09:00.000-07:00

It's Not Yellowstone

2008-01-31T11:15:00.000-07:00

BUT IT'S SPACE
and you could see yellowstone

.. OH, to be 40 years younger and very rich. Virgin Galactic, is ready with "SpaceShip Two." This is going to be a real joy. The world's largest all-composite airplane is going to carry it to launch altitude . . . . . stay tuned. (Link - Link - Link - Link)

A Warm 20 Degrees

2008-01-28T09:24:00.000-07:00

BUT THAT'S THE LEAST OF IT

.. Wind: gusting to 40 mph,
.. Snowfall: 16": the same predicted for the next 24 hours,
.. Cars: Lost forever.
.. Drifts: to 8'
.. Diesel: in short supply, over 25 front end loaders going full bore,
.. Sledheads: happy,
.. Skiers: waiting it out,
.. Prognosis: more of the same for the foreseeable future.

__________________

Remedies:

Watch the "Snow Dog Video"
..

Bison Video

2008-01-11T09:29:00.000-07:00

AMERICA'S WILD & FREE BISON

.. The Salt Lake Tribune has a piece on Bison, So does the Great Falls Tribune. My my.

Go West Ol' Feller

2007-12-29T06:35:00.000-07:00

OLD FOLKS MOVING WEST

Park Still Addressing Areas Of Concern

Is The Organic Act A Contradictory Document ?

.. Several print publications have recently put their spin on an article by Associated Press writer Mead Gruver that notices how Baby Boomer's are invading the West for their golden years. The popularity of the article for distribution suggests that there may be something to the observation. You can check the different pictures and headlines here: Topix, Bismark Tribune, Trib.Com, Billings Gazette, seMissourian, MemphisOnline, and many others.

------------

.. Last Wednesday the Federal Register posted the notice of report submitted to the World Heritage Committee detailing the progress and continuing efforts made in addressing issues that have threatened Yellowstone National Park. The full report is on the NPS site. There is a 30 day public comment period.
.. Copies are also available by writing to Suzanne Lewis, Superintendent, Yellowstone National Park, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, WY 82190-0168; by telephoning 307-344-2002; by sending an e-mail message to yell--world--heritage@nps.gov; or by picking up a copy in person at the park's headquarters in Mammoth Hot Springs, Wyoming, 82190.
.. Mike Stark in the Billings Gazette details the issues and actions cited in the report. These range from mining activities, through bison and grayling, to pollution from motorized travel, (summer and winter.) The winter problems have been addressed and pollution is on the decline - summer pollution and visitor use has not been addressed, because the park believes that visitation has leveled off. Time will tell if the increasing population around Yellowstone will avoid the park in the summer.

--------------

.. Modern critics of the national parks have often cited the sentence;

“to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein [within the national parks] and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations.”

as contradictory and an impossible mandate.
.. The NPS Morning Report for December 18, 2007 lets us know that the George Wright Society is addressing this and other bits of park history in a series of essays looking at the future and past of the parks.
.. One posthumous essay is abridged from previous work by Robin W. Winks and looks at the original act and subsequent legislation that does not view the mandate as contradictory. The complete original article can be found on the NPS site, and is an exhaustive exploration of the topic THE NATIONAL PARK SERVICE ACT OF 1916: "A CONTRADICTORY MANDATE?"

.. Joseph Sax, in a 1976 issue of Natural History Magazine, also did a popular piece addressing some of the similar points made by Winks.nps photo

Yellowstone Christmas

2007-12-24T04:47:00.000-07:00

NO BETTER TIME

courtesy Mike Bryers

Of Weather, Wolves, & Webcams

2007-12-22T07:45:00.000-07:00

AMMONIA FALLING ON YELLOWSTONE

Wolf Game & Wolves Game

webcams going all frigid

Yellowstone and Glacier are among nine parks where "significant worsening trends" of ammonium in the air were found, according to a recent National Park Service report on air quality trends from 1996 to 2005.

.. Mike Stark of the Billings Gazette reports about a study showing the continuing increase in air-born pollution in Yellowstone National Park, Glacier National Park, and other areas of the Rocky Mountain West. Pollinating insects and plants could be the first elements affected. Rocky Mountain National Park has the highest levels of ammonia and scientists are noting the replacement of wildflowers with grasses. This could happen in Yellowstone and Glacier too. There is a possibility that the intensity of the ammonia fallout is ameliorating in Yellowstone.

---------------

.. Wolf Quest, a free downloadable-game developed by the Minnesota Zoo and Eduweb, has caused such interest that the downloads crashed the server. The game's first episode is titled "WolfQuest: Amethyst Mountain," and allows the players to take the perspective of wolves in Yellowstone National Park. Downloads are outstripping the ability of servers to keep up. You can read the AP report HERE & HERE. (Map of Amethyst Mountain.)
.. The real wolves have a game of their own. They have found some more easy vittles near Dillon, Montana. Two incidents were confirmed by the Montana State Wildlife Services. In one instance two sheep were killed, in another a cow calf was killed. Traps were set in the first area in an attempt to capture the wolf, collar it, and determine if it's a lone wolf. A shoot on sight permit was issued to the rancher in the second incident. Read it HERE.

----------------

.. The streaming webcam at Old Faithful, mentioned previously, is still in BETA. It's experiencing some icing problems and the views are intermittent as the cold weather invades Yellowstone. When it's good, it's very very good, and when it's bad . . . . . .
.. You can read about the woes of the webcam in the Casper Star Tribune HERE. You can view it yourself HERE. (Turn the narration off!)
.. If you are into wecams of the region go to the regional webcam links on Ralph Maughan's site. Many to view. (P.S. The Tetons are glorious today!)

nps photo

Google Your Water Supply

2007-12-18T06:40:00.000-07:00

NRCS BUILDS ".kmz" DATA FILES

See Daily SNOTEL Data For Your Waters
(click image to enlarge)

.. Should you ever want to know how your snowpack is doing you can get it done with a new visual mapping tool developed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS.)
.. There are two ways to display this information on your computer. 1] if you're a computer mapping junkie, you can download the ".kmz" file and display it on your computer's copy of Google Earth, or --> 2] you can go to the NCRS site and view the daily image.
.. The data base includes all NCRS SNOTEL sites for North America, and can be viewed either with, or without labels for the sites.
.. There's nothing that we can do about the results of the weather, but now we can see and talk about it in real time.
.. The data files are updated daily around 7:30 am and 12:30 afternoon Pacific Time with midnight summaries of the previous day’s data. The symbols are color-coded by the current snow water equivalent as percent of the 1971-2000 normal on this date.
.. The ".kmz" file is recognized on your copy of Google Earth as "places." If you click on the site of interest you will get a photo of the site and a summary table for the data collected at that site. There are additional real-time reports included in the information on the photo page.
.. There is also a Google based "Water Supply Forecast" data base created by the NCRS. This is displayed in the same way as the SNOTEL data and can be viewed both ways as well. The forecasts are based on the snowpack, and are available for drainage basins.

---------------

.. Another pair of Google ".kmz" files has been prepared by NOAA. These are 3-D overlays of the snowpack analysis and snow reports. These are based on the latest, (usually daily,) NASA and NOHRSC imagery.
.. Here are the links to get you started, (P.S. you can build your own ".kmz" file.)
Google Earth SNOTEL Data Layer
Google Earth Water Supply Forecast Layer
National Snow Analyses 3D Interface

---------------

.. Here's one for Tom, (click for d ata.)

Bear Hair Is Tricky

2007-12-17T11:56:00.000-07:00

MSU SCIENTISTS SEEK GRIZZLY INFORMATION

Inbreeding Concerns Voiced

Travis Wyman of the National Park Service collects bear hair.
Photo courtesy Mark Harroldson.

.. Grizzly bear hair stored at Montana State University for over 25 years at -77.8 degrees will soon be headed to Canada. The hair collected from the bears in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem will be used to determine the genetic diversity of the grizzly bear population.
.. According to an MSU press release:

The hair will head to Canada in a few months to be analyzed at Wildlife Genetics International in Nelson, British Columbia, said Chuck Schwartz, head of the Interagency Grizzly Bear Study Team based at MSU. The team is monitoring the genetic diversity of the Yellowstone grizzlies over time and wants to know when new DNA appears. The team will also compare the Yellowstone bears with those in the Northern Continental Divide Ecosystem where a similar study has been done.

.. A major objective of the study is to determine if grizzly bears from the area around Glacier National Park migrate to Yellowstone National Park. The population of grizzly bears has doubled in the last 20 years to about 600 bears. This study will help determine the genetic diversity of the Yellowstone bears - and evaluate the general health of the gene pool.
.. The Canadian laboratory has analyzed bear hair from around the world, including Yosemite and Banff. According to Steven Kalinowski, a conservation geneticist at MSU:

Bear hair is tricky because the amount of DNA it contains is so small.

.. Jennifer Weldon, manager of the Canadian lab, said:

Dirty hair can challenge some researchers. So can hair that came from a dead animal and spent so much time in the elements that the DNA degraded.

.. After the DNA analysis the hair will be returned to MSU for additional study.

grizzly photo courtesy Mark Harroldson

Cooke City Web Cams

2007-12-06T13:42:00.000-07:00

CHECK IT OUT

.. There's a fine web cam in Cooke City. It's brought to you by Soda Butte Lodge. CLICK HERE.
.. There's also one HERE. Brought to you by the Exxon Station.

Winter Arriving - Mentality Insights

2007-11-24T13:24:00.000-07:00

A SPOOF ??

Listen Carefully

-- Record Of Decision (ROD) Signed --

.. Entertaining video billed as a "spoof" - listen to the anger!

------------

.. The Record Of Decision for the winter use plan has been posted on the NPS site (PDF): commentary HERE & HERE; Predictable Lawsuit HERE & HERE.

------------

RCN Posts Interactive Map - ZOWIEE

2007-11-10T23:43:00.000-07:00

FIND YOUR FAVORITE GEOTHERMAL FEATURE

Just Click - OR - Enter Keyword

------------------

.. The Yellowstone National Park Research Coordination Network [RCN] is a collaboration of research scientists and National Park staff to develop a coordinated research network focused on geothermal biology and geochemistry in YNP.
.. The Objectives of the RCN are:
1. Develop a coordinated network of research scientists focused on geothermal biology and geochemistry in YNP.
2. Facilitate greater coordination and collaboration on current and future scientific research, data collection, and resource inventory of geothermal features in YNP.
3. Initiate and develop mechanisms to increase information-sharing among participants, and to utilize data collections and educational resources more effectively to reach multiple audiences.
4. Facilitate research and educational activities among participants that capitalize on synergistic overlap and information sharing.
5. Utilize the productivity and progress of a RCN as a platform to solicit funding for multi-institutional and multi-agency initiatives directed towards future research and education on geothermal biology in YNP.

--------------

.. The Thermal Features Inventory just went online and it's an amazing resource. Access is through an interactive map which successively delineates regions, basins, groups, and features.
.. Each feature has it's own page and includes a location map, the name of the RCN participant that is studying the feature, {if available,} a photo, {if available,}YNP data search, USGS data search, RCN data search, and other data and information as available.
.. This is guaranteed to cut into to your browsing time - if you're at all interested in the geothermal features of Yellowstone.

More About Volcanos

2007-11-09T18:33:00.000-07:00

HERE'S MORE YELLOWSTONE RESOURCES

.. There is an enormous resource inventory for the geology of Yellowstone and the Yellowstone Caldera. The resources listed below should give you entry to the literature.

---------------

.. National Park Service, Nature and Science, GEOLOGY FIELD NOTES - YELLOWSTONE
.. National Park Service, VOLCANISM KNOWLEDGE CENTER
.. USGS, VOLCANIC HISTORY OF THE YELLOWSTONE PLATEAU VOLCANIC FIELD
.. USGS, YELLOWSTONE CALDERA, WYOMING
.. USGS, Cascades Volcano Observatory, VISIT A VOLCANO [Pacific Northwest]
.. USGS, Cascades Volcano Observatory, VISIT A VOLCANO [ USA]
.. Stromboli, YELLOWSTONE HOT SPOT AND VOLCANIC ACTIVITY
.. USGS. THE QUATERNARY AND PLIOCENE YELLOWSTONE PLATEAU VOLCANIC FIELD OF WYOMING, IDAHO, AND MONTANA [Abstract] [PDF - give it a second or two it's 36.2 MB] --- {Often referred to as 'Bob's Bible' - this is the most complete and definitive single source on the subject.}

.. USVO, CVO, YVO, relational bibliography:

Active and Potentially Active Volcanoes in the United States -- includes Yellowstone
Caldera and Caldera Formation - Menu -- general information about calderas and caldera formation, includes Yellowstone Caldera
Deformation Project - CVO Project Menu -- general information about Volcano Deformation Project, including the monitoring of Yellowstone Caldera
Eruptive History
Fact Sheet - Yellowstone: Restless Volcanic Giant
Geographic Setting
Geothermal and Hydrothermal Activity - Menu -- general information on Geothermal and Hydrolthermal Energy
GPS Monitoring - Yellowstone - CVO Project Menu
Hazards - Menu -- Yellowstone Volcano and Hydrologic Hazards Menu
Hazards Fact Sheet: Yellowstone: Restless Volcanic Giant -- 1995
Historical Unrest at Large Calderas of the World -- includes Yellowstone Caldera -- Newhall and Dzurisin, 1988, USGS Bulletin 1855
"Hot Spot" (Yellowstone's "Hot Spot") - Description
Leveling Project - Yellowstone - CVO Project Menu
Maps and Graphics - Yellowstone
Monitoring - Yellowstone Menu
CVO Photo Archives - Yellowstone
Supervolcano - Description
Visit A Volcano - Yellowstone National Park -- includes information, maps, tourism, links, etc.
Volcano Deformation Project - CVO Project Menu -- general information about the Volcano Deformation Project, including the monitoring of Yellowstone Caldera
Western USA Volcanoes and Volcanics - Description -- brief description about how the west was formed
Western USA Volcanoes and Volcanics - Menu -- general information on Volcanoes of the Western USA
Wyoming Volcanoes and Volcanics - Menu -- general information about Wyoming Volcanoes and Volcanic Activity, including Yellowstone Caldera
Yellowstone Caldera - Description -- Geographic Setting, Geologic and Eruptive History
Yellowstone Caldera - Visit A Volcano -- includes information, maps, links, etc.
Yellowstone Eruptive History
Yellowstone "Hot Spot" - Description
Yellowstone National Park - Visit A Volcano -- includes information, maps, links, etc.
Yellowstone: Restless Volcanic Giant -- USGS Fact Sheet
YVO - Yellowstone Volcano Observatory Website -- Link to YVO

.. Carleton College, The Montana-Yellowstone Geologic Field Guide Data Base [What you see while driving on the roads of the area. Start in Jackson, Wyoming and end in Ashton, Idaho.]
.. USGS, YELLOWSTONE CONTINUOUS GPS NETWORK [Real-time GPS monitoring data of the ups & downs of the Yellowstone Caldera and It's Domes.]
.. Google Web Search, YELLOWSTONE VOLCANO CALDERA
.. Google Image Search, YELLOWSTONE VOLCANO CALDERA

More News Of Rumblings

2007-11-09T00:31:00.000-07:00

YES, MARTHA, IT IS A SUPER VOLCANO
But, ''there is no evidence of an imminent volcanic eruption,'' said Robert B. Smith, a professor of geophysics at the University of Utah.

.. The Washington Post has the best of the latest spate of volcano stories. Moving to eastern Australia might, (repeat - MIGHT,) be a good idea. Maybe Perth would do.
.. See The Yellowstone Newspaper for a complete list of the various articles ranging from climatology to horror stories.
.. Use our earthquake and volcano links at the top of the page to follow developments.

.. Get the unadulterated scoop at the following:

-> Yellowstone Volcano Observatory Monthly Activity Update
-> Recent Ups And Downs Of The Yellowstone Caldera
-> Yellowstone Rising

What Does Yellowstone Want ??

2007-10-25T06:05:00.000-06:00

CELL TOWERS IN NEWS AGAIN

And Some Other Stuff

.. Once upon a time the National Park Service loved cell phone towers and held secret meetings to plan how to put them in Yellowstone National Park. The Sierra Club noted in January of 2005 that the NPS was seeking revenue streams of all kinds and that cell phones and their towers could provide it.

.. The minutes of the secret meeting were "outed" by PEER on April 8, 2004, and finally made it to "My Space" on May 3, 2006, and much discussion ensued in the press and the blogs. The NPS was happy to join the discussion because it ignored the revenue issue. It seemed that the issue was settled and it faded from the radar.
.. Now there is a proposed tower, on private property, that the NPS is objecting to on grounds that it's visibility is detrimental to the Yellowstone Experience - of course they are not daring to mention that it will generate no revenue for the park.
.. An article by Brodie Farquhar in the October 24, 2007 issue of the Casper Star Tribune details the supposed concerns of the NPS. Suzanne Lewis is advocating political action by park employees to change the siting of the tower. She wrote them a memo with instructions about how to oppose the non-revenue-producing tower.
.. Of course in her letter to Alltel, on October 16, Lewis used the same objections to the proposed tower that critics used after the park illegally placed their tower at Old Faithful. Just plain whimsy on the part of a park with neither real concern or consistency. Bushgreenwatch posted a note about the concern back in April of 2004. It seems that the intrusion into the Old Faithful viewshed by a cell phone tower is just fine if it's done for monetary gain by the NPS, but it's not a good thing for the Roosevelt Arch viewshed if the NPS doesn't make money.
.. Back in May of 2006, Rita Beamish, again in the Casper Star Tribune noted that the National Park Service wanted an industry-wide plan for the lowest impact. Of course this meant on park properties with revenue for the parks.
.. It is also noteworthy that the NPS has allowed towers and facilities on Bunsen Peak for their own use for many years.
.. For those interested in the way the NPS does business these days, the following links should be interesting:
--- Letter from Jeff Ruch, Executive Director of PEER, to Earl Devaney, Inspector General, seeking an explanation of the secret meeting to site towers and provide revenues to the NPS (PDF).
--- List of those attending the illegal meeting of March 31, 2005. Includes email addresses and minutes of meeting. [Compare to 'notes' below.] (PDF.)
--- Notes by unidentified NPS employee from that secret meeting on 30/31/05 (PDF).
--- Cell phone coverage map from the 1999 Environmental Assessment for predicted coverage (PDF).
--- Simple view from National Parks Conservation Association.

-----------
Some Other Stuff

.. Visitation figures for September are up compared to a year ago.
.. Fried Trout A La Maytag, from a new Yellowstone cookbook.
.. A Late Afternoon, Mid-October Snowstorm On The Madison River.
.. Streaming Web Cam Gets Narration - OHMYGAWD IT'S BAD.

---------------

Of Smart Moose & Black Sheep

2007-10-11T00:00:00.000-06:00

MOOSE MAKE NEWS FROM CHINA TO COLORADO

Sex Crimes In Morning Report

Buffalo Fan Obstructs justice

.. It seems that moose mamas are moving closer to roads in Yellowstone as calving time approaches. This provides the moose with protection from grizzly bears because the bears generally stay farther away from the roads than the moose.
.. Researchers have shown that the moose get closer to the roads over the years, while the bears stay substantially the same distance from the roads.
.. Of course the sub-text that is not talked about is that humans are depriving grizzly bears of a living just by being in Yellowstone National Park. Soon they'll be calving on your front door.
.. The Chinese view the situation this way. The folks in Denver see it this way.

=============

.. The NPS MORNING REPORT for yesterday details the history of a sex crime case against a concession employ at Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park.
.. The case originated on June 18, 2007 and ended on September 27, 2007 when the federal district judge in Cheyenne, Wyoming ordered the suspect to be detained pending trial or plea agreement.
.. The alleged crimes involved computer pictures of young children in sexually explicit poses and activities. Read it in The Morning Report.

=============

.. The Bozeman Daily Chronicle reports the results of a trial of Dan Brister, 37, the Buffalo Field Campaign's project director.
.. Brister was convicted of a misdemeanor for obstructing a peace officer, fined $585, and sentenced to six months probation after the jury found him guilty.

Old Faithful Streaming Webcam

2007-09-29T17:17:00.000-06:00

THIS IS A "REAL-TIME-VIEW"

Just In Time For Public Lands Day
Glacier Park Disappearing
Giant Bison Shot

.. The Old Faithful streaming webcam is up and running. It is controlled by staff at Old Faithful and pans around the Upper Geyser Basin. It is often directed at erupting geysers other than Old Faithful. It also features a zoom lens that allows a view of the thermal features from a closer perspective than the fixed webcam.
.. When not being "flown around the basin," the streaming webcam shows an image similar to the static webcam. The sponsors of the new webcam are Canon and the Yellowstone Park Foundation.
.. The link to the streaming webcam is a ""MMS"" link, (which is an external protocol request,) and redirects your browser to Windows Media Player for viewing the live stream. Depending on your browser and its settings the media player will just open -- OR -- a "Query Window" will pop up. If this happens, just launch the application.

HERE'S THE LINK
.. Try it, you'll like it. It's also listed in our sidebar under Yellowstone Links if you'd like to try it here instead of on your own browser.

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.. If you would like an Old Faithful Webcam widget for your own computer just go to Yahoo Widgets and get it. It's a bit better than the NPS version. Just wait until we can control the webcam from our own joystick.
.. If you're running an Apple just go to Spider-Mac For a similar free widget.
.. Should you want a webcam of your own just click on over to Star Dot Technologies and investigate the possibilities. The Old Faithful Webcam is featured on their site.

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.. Today is Public Lands Day and you may enter Yellowstone National Park for free -- if you can afford the fuel to get here.
.. Take your cell phone to Old Faithful -- Call Home --Wave at the webcams.

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"This summer, for the first time in Glacier National Park's 100-year history, Gem Glacier was entirely snow-free, a glistening sheet of bare ice sweating dark and blue under a relentless sun."

And the trend toward melting continues -- via the Missoulian.

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“Old Lonesome ain’t lonesome no more,”

.. An enormous bull bison was killed in the hunt to reduce the Jackson Bison Herd. The hunt is conducted by Wyoming to reduce the size of the herd to 500 individuals from its current size of about 1,200.
.. The dead bison may be the largest bison killed in the last 82 years. It was shot by E.D. Riekens Jr., of Cheyenne, near Spread Creek on September 18. Before the record can be official the head must dry for 60 days and then be re-measured.
.. The horn spread of "Old Lonesome" has been measured at 32 inches from tip to tip and 18 and 19 inches individually, giving the animal a hunting score of 140-2/8. The previous record, a bison killed in Yellowstone National Park in 1925, scored 136-4/8. -- via Seattle Times.

We Get Requests

2007-09-23T01:47:00.000-06:00

HERE SHE IS

.. We grabbed these snapshots back in May and have had requests ever since. We followed the pack north through the Hayden Valley without seeing the boss gal. As we approached the Chittenden Bridge we noticed a shadow on the hillside and pulled over. She trotted down the embankment and crossed right in front of the car. Dashed over the bridge and waved goodbye with a flick of her tail. Feel free to copy and use the images as you wish.

You're Not A Real Cop

2007-09-22T05:11:00.000-06:00

WELCOME BACK RANGER GORD

.. It's Entertaining, insightful, a bit pathetic, and just a mite too true to laugh at. We welcome back Ranger Gord with a suggestion that it's important to understand what the whole job is . . . not just the touchy - feelie part.
.. Money Quote:

"I guess people just want park rangers to tell them all about the cute cuddly woodland creatures instead of enforcing laws and arresting criminals. What should a park ranger to do once all of the woodland creatures are scared away by hoards of horny men looking for sex?"

.. Click on over to Ranger Gord for the story of The Robo Ranger of Griffith Park. There are a couple of posts and it's worth reading it all.

Rolling Thunder

2007-09-21T07:34:00.000-06:00

A WHITE SOURCE BOOK

.. Leading the West Yellowstone visit is The White Convertible Limousine #437. These vehicles have become a major attraction wherever they appear. These six vehicles represent the golden age of touring in Yellowstone National Park. #437 is based in West Yellowstone at the museum in West Yellowstone, The other 5 are in Mammoth.
.. We confess to having an unmitigated obsession with the vehicles and have posted several notes in the past:
--- WE LIKE WHITES
--- THE FORDS ARE READY
--- REDS INVADE YELLOWLAND
--- ON THE ROAD AGAIN
.. Below are some pictures of these fine vehicles, that are such a part of Yellowstone History, including "Good Ol' Number One." Drivers of the vehicles, (called 'gear jammers') are selected from the current corps of guides in Yellowstone. They are chosen for their length of service, interest in the vehicles, ability to communicate both the current wonders of the park and the flavor of the past, and their abiding love of the history of Yellowstone.
.. These six White Coaches are original vehicles. These are not the refurbished, restored, and remade vehicles that are being used by the current park concessionaire. And, as nice as the new fords are, they have lost a certain "glow" that is irreplaceable.
.. The vehicles arrived in West Yellowstone for a board meeting of the West Yellowstone Historical Society which operates and maintains the museum in town. The museum has a central theme of "Transportation in Yellowstone," and presents images, artifacts, and stories from the earliest times to the present. Many vehicles are included in the collections. If you are interested in Railroads, Automobiles, Stage Coaches, Snowmobiles, Bicycles, or other forms of transportation that have been used in Yellowstone - the museum is a must visit.
.. The board meeting was hosted by Bullwinkle's Saloon and Eatery, owned by board members Jackie and Dennis LaFever. We were not privy to the fare but suspect that no one left hungry.
.. Feel Free to copy and use any of these images.

Historic Bus Gathering

2007-09-20T12:52:00.000-06:00

ON THE ROAD AGAIN

.. Yellowstone's historic bus collection traveled to Bullwinkle's Restaurant in West Yellowstone today for a luncheon sponsored by Bullwinkle's Restaurant and The Wet Yellowstone Historical Society
.. More pictures and details tomorrow.

Action Jackson

2007-09-19T12:58:00.000-06:00

BACK IN THE NEWS AGAIN

Sans Gag Order

READ IT HERE

Prescribed Fire Burns

2007-09-17T05:30:00.000-06:00

HEAVY FUEL LOAD REDUCED

New West Entrance Station Progressing

.. The fire scheduled for today happened yesterday. It went off with little incident until the winds kicked up about 2:00 PM. The road from Norris to Canyon was closed briefly due to the smoke, and the fire-information center in the Norris Meadow parking lot got a lot of attention.
.. This was the first time that a prescribed burn was used in Yellowstone. It was designed to remove the heavy fuel concentration in the forest. A fire in this area could have threatened some historic structures, the Norris Campground, and the government housing area. By all accounts the 65 acre burn was a success. About half of the heavy fuel load that was in the area was burned. You can read a complete report in the Billings Gazette.

==============

.. Construction on the new West Entrance Station continues at a pace just a bit behind schedule. The narrow road and resulting congestion have not deterred visitors. The entrance traffic yesterday was as heavy as it was on the Fourth of July, (for about 1 hour the waiting traffic backed up into West Yellowstone.)
.. In addition to the new gate and entrance station there is a widened road planned and a turnaround that is already completed.

Odds & Ends

2007-09-07T11:48:00.000-06:00

Burnt Trees

More Visitors

Armed Conflict

Bear Woes
Tom's In Town

.. The fire closure in the burned area of the Madison Arm Fire has been lifted.

Even though the lands within the closure area are now open under normal travel restrictions, the public is asked to use caution and watch for trees weakened by the fire that may fall during a wind storm. . . . Billings Gazette

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.. Visitor numbers continue to rise at Yellowstone.

Park officials reported an 11.8 percent jump in the number of recreational visitors to Yellowstone in August compared with last year. In all, 710,781 people came to the park last month. . . . Billings Gazette

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.. With the additional visitor crowding comes more strife. This is so common now that it does not even rate a press release or a note in the morning report, (although former employee arrests are noted.) Kind of like vagrancy on the National Mall.

During the initial stages of the standoff, the three men alternated between yelling obscenities and threats of violence and repeatedly entering and exiting their vehicles. One shouted that “someone is going to die tonight;” . . . Desert USA Blog

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.. With the increased Grizzly longevity and recent population growth, the trophic cascade has begun to push the black bears around. The resulting human bear conflicts have led to the euthanasia and/or relocation of several bears this year, (1,2.) This is happening all over the Northwestern United States - - look for it to continue.

Fortunately, there is a place for chubby bears outside of the Chicago offensive line or the Gay Pride parade. . . . Crosscut

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.. Growing awareness of the Y2Y concept is creeping into news sources and reports.

Nature knows no borders, and if humans want to preserve animal species that straddle two nations, they need to ensure that habitats are seamless. The wildlife-corridor concept addresses this challenge. . . . Crosscut

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.. There is a photo exhibit currently at the Burke Museum in Seattle that highlights the Y2Y concept. It's called "Freedom To Roam and will run until December 31, 2007. There is a spectacular photographic preview on the museum's web page.

The great Rocky Mountain landscapes are a treasure for the world. In them, I see what we in Europe have lost. I don't want that to happen here. — Florian Schulz, photographer

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.. Fishing with friends is newsman T. Brokaw.

The Sky Is Falling - Finally

2007-09-01T07:24:00.000-06:00

WIDESPREAD RAINS DAMPEN FIRES

Can It Really Be September ?
winter use plans revealed

.. An article in New West by Mathew Frank details the current fires in Montana. The article also details a list of fire resources and updates for the western United States.
.. Yellowstone National Park has some fires still burning and uncontained, (see InciWeb 1 & 2,) and the park administration plans to start some more to keep company with the newly discovered backcountry fire. Illegal morel hunting should be good around Norris next year.

=====================

.. A YNP press release lets us know that the Winter Use Planning Documents have been released. All current Winter Use Technical Documents are POSTED HERE.

-----------------------

The new documents are:

-- Natural Soundscape Monitoring draft report (PDF),

"Although on average snowmobiles were audible for more time than snowcoaches, snowcoaches in general had higher sound levels, especially at higher speeds."

-- Final Air Quality Modeling Report (PDF)

"the earlier modeling scenarios only included in-bound traffic within Yellowstone and did not include traffic exiting the park (i.e., return trips were not “counted” by the previous modeling as traveling on road segments a second time). Since this potentially excluded a substantial amount of traffic, this was corrected in the update and the latest travel factor spreadsheets include both in-bound and out-bound trips for all alternatives."

.
-- Winter Air Quality Study from this past season (PDF),

"The winter of 2006-2007 had CO values that were nearly the same as the last few years. The maximum hourly CO at the West Entrance was slightly higher but the longer averages of 8-hours and for the season were down."

.
.. A complete review of the air quality can also be found at the NPS site NATURE & SCIENCE.
-- Bison & Plowed Roads (PDF - 2005)

"Collaboration is necessary to define what is acceptable;
science is necessary to define what is possible;
organizing people to use knowledge to design and implement
management in the face of uncertainty is fundamental."

.. The battle of the electronic postcard is being won by opponents of snowmobiles! - reported by Scott McMillion in the Bozeman Daily Chronicle.

Dirk & The Dodo

2007-08-29T00:15:00.000-06:00

THE RUBBER DODO COMES HOME TO ROOST

.. The Center for Biological Diversity has presented their first annual Rubber Dodo award to Dirk Kempthorne.

READ IT HERE

GRIST REPORTS IT HERE

TALK TO DIRK HERE

Mary Bomar Visits

2007-08-28T08:53:00.001-06:00

NO NEW INSIGHTS

Sylvan Pass Under Scrutiny

.. Mary Bomar visited with us yesterday. That's it. She refused to comment on the winter closure proposed for the east entrance to Yellowstone. Read the report in the Casper Star Tribune.