During the run-up to the 2008 presidential election, Senator John McCain of Arizona was applauded by many as a friend of the national parks. However, some groups are now wondering why the senator is supporting legislation that would increase air tours over Grand Canyon National Park, an experience that offers many incredible views of the park and yet one that others criticize for the noisy intrusion on the park setting.

Good winter rains and warmer spring days seem to be doing the trick in Joshua Tree National Park, where the spring bloom is moving right along. It's still too early, though, to say this year's bloom will match those colorful displays of 2005 and 2008.

The work of Grand Teton National Park’s senior wildlife biologist has received much-deserved recognition with a regional National Park Service award for excellence. The honor also is a victory for applied, hand’s-on ecology.