Months of talks and work between the Yellowstone Park Foundation and the Yellowstone Association have given rise to Yellowstone Forever, a new nonprofit entity that the organization believes "will become a national model for public-private partnerships to protect and support the park, and connect the next generation with Yellowstone."

"I’m thrilled about what we’re creating together—a powerful force for education and philanthropy to protect this wonderland that we love so much," said Heather White, the new entity's CEO and president, said in announcing the merger. "We’ll connect the next generation to Yellowstone National Park and all its grandeur and majesty, and ultimately help people connect with something larger than themselves.

"...Our mission of engagement and support through education and fundraising for the park will ensure Yellowstone remains for generations to come. We will combine the outstanding history of educational programs, products, and services of the Yellowstone Association and the legacy of critical fundraising support from the Yellowstone Park Foundation into a dynamic, unified education and fundraising partner for Yellowstone and its splendor," she added. "We’ll focus on engaging new audiences, bringing on more partners to help provide financial support for the park, and creating a strong emphasis on technology as a powerful tool to help bring the wonder of Yellowstone to communities and classrooms around the world."

Next month the organization plans to launch its new website and logo, and rebranded educational products and materials.