Bottled-up genetics lead to problems, as evidenced by the inbreeding woes of the wolves at Isle Royale National Park. Though mountain lions that roam Santa Monica Mountains National Recreation Area aren't as inbred as those wolves, the lack of genetic diversity is a growing concern.

Yellowstone National Park officials are proposing some changes to their outfitted pack trip regulations. Some would allow park officials to close areas of the backcountry to stock use if impacts are great.

A ranger who worked with Native American tribes with ties to the Natchez Trace to create interpretive programs has been honored by the National Park Service for interpretive excellence.

With winter coming on, Mount Rainier National Park lovers will be glad to hear that the park will be open seven days a week this year beginning in late December.