Not every unit of the National Park System can brag about adding an island to its landscape, but Missouri National Recreational River can. And it's no small island, either; Goat Island runs about 800 acres.

Heavy flooding in the Midwest has impacted at least two units of the National Park System, but it will be a while before full damage assessments can be made at Niobrara National Wild and Scenic River and Missouri National Recreational River.

The Missouri National Recreational River has entered into a partnership with the Living River group of the South Dakota Sierra Club. The group has adopted Mulberry Bend Overlook and Trails, a part of the Missouri National Recreational River. They will help park staff keep the parking lot and trails free of litter, and help keep trails clear and safe and in good condition.