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1997 News Stories

October 3 -- Higher Entrance Fees Averted Yellowstone Budget Cuts

Yellowstone Superintendent Michael Finley earlier this week noted that higher entrance fees for the Park averted what would have amounted to a $3.3 million budget cut. Following two straight years of buget cuts (1995 and 1996), the increased entrance fees were used to place more money directly into Yellowstone's operating budget. The only difficulty in the arrangement, according to Finley, is that the increased revenues have been earmarked specifically toward infrastructure instead of operations. He hopes that next year's budget revenue picture will be even better.

September 29 -- Wolves Thinning Yellowstone's Coyote Population

Yellowstone biologists have noted a drastic reduction in the number of coyotes in the Park. Since 1995 (the year in which wolves were reintroduced to Yellowstone Park), the number of coyotes in Yellowstone has dropped by half, from an estimated 500 to an estimated 250. Biologists expected the decline in coyote numbers, but not so quickly. However, the wolves have been acting very aggressively towards the coyotes, not merely chasing them away from prey, but oftentimes killing them. It is predicted that the balance between wolves and coyotes in Yellowstone will eventually stabilize as nature takes its course among the predators of Yellowstone.

September 27 -- Crown Butte Mine Stalemate Ends

Following months of negotiations, Crown Butte Mines Inc. and Margaret Reeb of Livingston, Montana, have reached an agreement regarding her property in the New World Mine district that cold cinch a deal to stop mining near Yellowstone Park. The White House has been seeking a settlement with Crown Butte Mines to stop develop of a mine near the northeast corner of the Park, but Reeb had thus far refused to sell her property which lies within the mining district, a parcel of land which is crucial to the buyout of the Crown Butte mine. In essence, the agreement between Crown Butte and Reeb allows her to keep her land as long as she does not agree to future mining on the company. The White House's proposal to pay Crown Butte $65 million in cash from the Land and Water Conservation Fund will now be placed before joint House-Senate conference committee. In the meantime, Rep. Rick Hill (R) of Montana is offering a different proposal which would also give cash to Crown Butte in exchange for land, but at the same time would open up other Montana land for future mining. Environmental groups support the White House proposal, but are concerned about Hill's proposal.

September 27 -- Yellowstone Roads: Years of Repairs Lay Ahead

(The Billings Gazette) -- Despite unexpected progress on road construction this summer, a spokesperson for the Federal Highway Administration said that the pot-holed roads in Yellowstone are still so bad that it will take years for all the needed repairs to take place. Construction in the Madison area of the Grand Loop is ahead of schedule, and should be finished by early next summer. Construction on the East Entrance road, however, is lagging behind schedule. Several other projects are on tap for the next two years. The northern climate of the region allows only for summer seasonal work on the roads, which is further hindered by heavy traffic on the roads during the summer. In addition, special precautions and measures have to be taken to ensure that the thermal features are not hurt by the work. As a result, road repairs in Yellowstone are oftentimes lengthy in nature. For years, visitors have complained about the excessive number of pot-holes in Yellowstone roads. Harsh winter conditions in the Park are the main culprit for wrecking havoc on the Park's roadways.

September 25 -- Settlement Agreement Reached in Winter-Use Lawsuit

NPS -- Park officials for Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks announced Tuesday that a settlement agreement hasbeen reached in a lawsuit filed on May 20, 1997, by the Fund for Animals and other organizations and individuals. The lawsuit asserted that the National Park Service (NPS) failed to comply with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), the Endangered Species Act (ESA), and other regulations before allowing large numbers of visitors to use the national parks in the winter.

"We believe settling the lawsuit will establish an open and fair process to develop winter visitor use management alternatives for the park," noted Grand Teton Superintendent Jack Neckels and Yellowstone National Park Superintendent Michael Finley. "During the process, public use of the parks will continue, and park resources will be protected."

As part of the settlement agreement, the NPS has agreed to begin a three-year process to prepare a comprehensive environmental impact statement (EIS) for winter visitor use in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks and the John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Memorial Parkway; the U.S. Forest Service will be asked to be a cooperator in this process. The EIS will address a full range of alternatives for all types of winter visitor use, including snowmobiling and trail grooming in the parks, and will consider the effects of those alternatives on the parks' environments. In conjunction with preparation of the EIS, the NPS will request formal consultation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) concerning the impacts of winter use activities in the parks on endangered and threatened species, including the grizzly bear and gray wolf. During the period when the NPS is preparing the EIS, the parks will continue activities under the existing winter visitor-use plan.

Under the agreement, Yellowstone will immediately begin preparation of an environmental assessment (EA) on a proposed action to close the road segment from Fishing Bridge to the entrance of South Canyon Drive near Canyon Village or other roads on an experimental basis to all winter visitor use to study the effects of groomed snowmobile trails on bison movement. Under the agreement, the NPS has agreed to issue the EA for public comment no later than November 15, 1997; the public comment period will close no later than December 15, 1997, and a final decision based on the EA is due by January 10, 1998.

September 22 -- Rapid Development in Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem

Some Yellowstone Park supporters are becoming more and more concerned about the growing residential development of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Indeed, the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, comprised of 18 million acres in Wyoming, Montana and Idaho surrounding Yellowstone National Park, is one of the fastest growing regions in the entire United States. In the 1990 census, the total population of the area was 242,000. The current population stands at an estimated 534,000, representing an average annual growth rate of 12%.

The Greater Yellowstone Coalition, based in Bozeman, Montana, is calling for responsible development of the Yellowstone area. The rapid growth is coming from the development of land around such places as Dubois, Wyoming and Big Sky, Montana, as large landowners sub-divide their land and sell it off in large residential tracts.

September 19 -- Snowmobile Lawsuit Soon to be Settled?

A settlement appears near in a lawsuit seeking to put a stop to groomed snowmobile trails in Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks. In May the Fund for Animals and the Biodiversity Legal Foundation sued Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks, claiming that the groomed snowmobile trails provide an unnatural migratory corridor in the Parks for the wildlife. (The groomed trails have been identified as a part of the problem leading to the deaths of over 1000 bison this past winter.) The lawsuit also claims that the government has never undertaken a study to see how the groomed trails affect wildlife in the parks. The Fund for Animals and a Yellowstone National Park spokesperson have indicated that a settlement to the lawsuit is likely to take place soon.

September 17 -- Yellowstone Visitor Statistics Through August

According to Park figures, a total of 2.3 million people visited Yellowstone during the first eight months of 1997. This figure represents a four percent decrease from the same period last year. In August, only the South entrance (Jackson) and the Northeast entrance (Cooke City) showed numerical increases over August of 1996. The East gate suffered the greatest loss with a 14% decline. Various theories abound as to why the numbers are off: road construction and unusually heavy rainfall are two reasons often cited. On the other hand, the higher park fees have not apparently contributed to the downfall.

September 15 -- Sheep-Eating Wolf Killed

Wolf No. 68, a yearling female, was killed early Tuesday after being blamed for killing 56 sheep. The wolf was one of ten introduced into Yellowstone last year. Biologists removed her from the Green River valley area last month after she killed 41 sheep in the area. She soon made her back, however, and struck again. After three days of unsuccessful attempts to trap her the previous weekend, officials decided to shoot her.

September 14 -- Yellowstone River to Receive Extra Federal Protection

Declaring rivers "the lifeblood of our nations," President Clinton launched an effort Thursday to designate 10 waterways as American Heritage rivers that will get extra federal attention.

A designation under the program will allow communities, through a liaison called a "river navigator," to tap existing federal resources and expertise in protecting and restoring the waterway. The first designations are expected to be made early next year. The Yellowstone River, from the point where it courses out of Yellowstone Park until it empties into the Missouri River in eastern Montana, is one of the rivers designated for special protection. The Yellowstone River is the only major river in the United States which is free of dams.

September 11 -- Park Road Construction Update

NPS -- Major road construction continues this year on the Madison-to-Old Faithful Road and the East Entrance Road in Yellowstone National Park. During the autumn, access will be limited. The following schedule became effective September 2, 1997:

East Entrance Road: September 2 to November 2 - Open 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. with up to 30 minute delays seven days a week; closed all other times.

Old Faithful to Madison Weekdays, open 6 p.m. to 10 a.m. with up to 30 minute delays; closed all other times.Weekends, open Friday 6 p.m. to Monday 10 a.m. THIS ROAD CLOSES FOR THE SEASON AT 10 P.M. ON SEPTEMBER 30, 1997.

The East Entrance and Old Faithful to Madison road projects are part of a 20-year parkwide road reconstruction plan to improve the park's 330-mile road system. Many of the roads in the park were constructed by the U.S. Army and Bureau of Public Roads over 50 years ago. The roads are substandard for today's vehicles and lack structural integrity, are too narrow, and do not conform to engineering safety standards.

September 9 -- Yellowstone Net Named as one of World's Top Websites

Wallace Marketing, an internet consulting and promotion company, has named Yellowstone Net as one of the top internet sites in the world. Each month, Wallace Marketing, through its Ultimate Exposure 200 program, names the top 25 websites of the world according to their judges' panel. Yellowstone Net was named to the number one slot for the month of September. To see the top 25 listing, click here.

September 8 -- Low Flying Airplanes and a Wolf Update

It is a rarity to see airplanes flying low over Yellowstone Park, much less to see one flying so low that Mark McQwire could almost reach it with one of his mammoth home runs. However, during the next four weeks or so, the U.S. Department of the Interior will be conducting an aerial survey of Yellowstone's geologic features, and will thus be flying two instrument-laden planes 800 feet from the ground. Visitors who spot the low-flying planes need not be alarmed.

A portion of the northwestern corner of the Park has been closed to protect a litter of wolf pups that was abandoned last month. Park officials speculate that the adult wolf may have been struck by a vehicle, leaving the pups to fend for themselves. The pups have been frequenting the area near highway 191, and appear to be in poor condition. In order to protect the pups, no off-trail travel is allowed along the Daly Creek Trail until September 21. Officials are hopeful that two other adult wolves in the area will begin caring for the pups.

September 5 -- Firewood Gathering Allowed with Permit

Firewood gathering is now underway in Yellowstone for those individuals who sent in their $25 applications. Those with permits can take up to three cords (each 4x4x8 feet) of firewood. Firewood gathering will continue for most of the month in designated areas of the Park.

September 3 -- Park Visitor Burned

NPS -- Yellowstone National Park officials report that on August 28, 1997, at approximately 11:30 a.m., Ms. Kristin Heffernan, a 21-year-old Amfac employee from Americus, Georgia, was hiking with a companion in the 7-Mile Hole area of the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone when her right foot broke through the surface of the ground and into a geothermal feature. Ms. Heffernan and the companion had obtained a backcountry permit for a campsite at 7-Mile Hole and had spent the previous night there; they were on their way out when the incident occurred.

Ms. Heffernan reported that she was hiking on or very close to the trail when the accident occurred; Ms. Heffernan apparently stepped into a small thermal vent near the trail. Ms. Heffernan, her companion and members of another hiking party removed her shoe and sock immediately and poured cold water on her foot. After covering the burned foot with dry, sterile dressings, Ms. Heffernan was able to put her shoe back on and hike 5 miles back to the trailhead, where the other hiking party gave her a ride to Canyon Visitor Center. Ms. Heffernan was evaluated by park EMTs at Canyon Ranger Station and transported to Lake Hospital by private vehicle, where she was treated and released for first and second degree burns to her right toes, the top of her right foot, and a splash burn to the right shin area.

All park visitors are reminded that for their own safety it is important to stay on boardwalks and designated trails while viewing all thermal features in the park. Scalding water underlies thin, breakable crusts; many geyser eruptions are unpredictable, and thermal features are near or above boiling temperatures. Boardwalks and trails help to protect park visitors and prevent damage to delicate formations.

September 3 -- Slough Creek Campground Relocation

NPS -- Yellowstone National Park Superintendent Michael Finley announced today that he is soliciting comments on issues and alternatives to be considered for the environmental assessment of the Slough Creek Campground campsite replacement project. Comments may be submitted through November 8, 1997.

Planning for the relocation of campsites in the Slough Creek Campground is underway. Several campsites are located adjacent to the banks of Slough Creek. The edges of these campsites have been eroding away for several years. During the 1996 and 1997 spring runoff, these campsites were under water. In addition, the proximity of these sites to the stream is in conflict with regulations prohibiting camping within 100 feet of flowing water. There will be no increase in the number of campsites (29) at the Slough Creek Campground as a result of this project.

The National Park Service is considering a variety of alternatives. Up to 18 campsites could be removed from the flood plain. Some or all of these sites could be relocated to the open sagebrush areas along existing campground roads or along a new road loop. As many as eight sites could be relocated as new walk-in sites beyond the west end of the current campground area. Leaving the campsites at their current locations will also be considered, probably resulting in a loss of at least two sites due to continuing stream bank erosion.

To assist the National Park Service with the Slough Creek Campground campsite replacement project, you are invited to comment on the issues or identify alternatives to be considered. Please send your comments by November 8, 1997 to: Planning Office, Slough Creek Campground Campsite Replacement Project, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190.

September 1 -- Labor Day News from Yellowstone

House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R) and Montana Representative Rick Hill (R), two of about a dozen GOP members on a tour of western states, visited Yellowstone Saturday. Gingrich, in his first visit to the Park, was reportedly impressed by the thermal features of the Park. They discussed the need for more funds for Park maintenance, while Hill promoted his proposed answer to finalizing the New World Mine deal. Hill is in favor of the government simply giving Crown Butte Mines, Inc. cash in return for the company abandoning. Others, including Rep. Barbara Cubin (WY), are not so certain that the government should simply hand over cash to Crown Butte. They are uncomfortable with taxpayers directly bailing out the mine company. The original deal struck last summer called for a land swap of federal lands for Crown Butte's property near Cooke City. Since then, several roadblocks have arisen, and negotiations are still underway.

In additional labor day news, Amfac's housekeeping department seasonal staff is unusually low as the summer seasons winds down. The staff shortage is so low that 25 rooms in the Old Faithful Inn have been closed over Labor Day weekend. There is no indication at this point that the rooms will be re-opened for the remainder of the season.

August 30 -- Old Faithful Needs New Sewage Plant

The sewage plant at Old Faithful Village is in bad need of major repairs or simply needs to be replaced, according to Yellowstone Park maintenance officials. The fifty year old sewage system, thanks to buildup in the main pipes caused by the natural thermal heat in the area, is routinely backing up and contaminating ground water in test sites. The contamination, it is feared, will eventually work its way into Old Faithful's ground water as well as in surface water in the area. A new sewage treatment facility would cost an estimated $5 million. A request for funds last year was turned down by Congress, and it is uncertain if Congress will allocate the funds in the coming year. (Condensed from The Billings Gazette.)

August 28 -- First Bear Attack of Season in Yellowstone

NPS --Yellowstone National Park officials report that Josh Beattie, 22 years old, of Indianapolis, Indiana, was injured during an encounter with a grizzly bear at a remote backcountry location on August 21, 1997. The incident occurred at approximately 3 p.m.

On August 20, Beattie obtained a permit to camp alone in the backcountry at the Canyon Ranger Station. Hiking in from the Wapati Trailhead, he spent the first night at Moss Creek and encountered no problems. After setting up camp at Broad Creek on August 21, Beattie began a day hike, off-trail, in the Tern Lake area. He was hiking quietly and not making any noise when he startled two bears--possibly an adult female with cub--that were about 25 yards away. The larger bear (Beattie was unclear whether they were grizzly bears) charged to within five yards of Beattie, went around behind him, cuffed him, and bit him once on the left shoulder and once on the left thigh. Beattie remained passive throughout the attack, which he recalled as the recommended action from the backcountry permit orientation film he had seen. The bears left the area, and Beattie returned to his camp for the night. He began hiking out of the backcountry on August 22, staying the
night at Moss Creek. He exited the backcountry on August 23 and reported the encounter to park staff at Canyon. He was taken to Lake Hospital for treatment of his injuries. He sustained puncture wounds from the bites and some scrapes and abrasions. Park staff have posted the entire area with strong bear warnings and are currently checking the area out.

This is the first bear mauling this season. Park visitors are reminded to take appropriate precautions when hiking in bear country. When hiking, it's recommended you not hike alone, stay on designated trails, make noise, and be alert. Try not to surprise bears or any other wildlife while hiking, and never approach wildlife
with young.

August 26 -- 125th Anniversary Celebration Report

An army band, mounted horseman and speeches by dignitaries highlighted Yellowstone's 125th Anniversary celebration at Old Faithful yesterday morning. Governor's James Geringer of Wyoming and Philip Batt of Idaho, along with Senator Thomas Craig of Wyoming and National Park Service Intermountain Regional Director John Cook, spoke of Yellowstone's majesty and importance against the backdrop of Old Faithful, which erupted near the end of the one hour and fifteen minute celebration. For many present at the celebration, however, the highlight of the morning was a speech by the late President Theodore Roosevelt, portrayed by Mark Klemetstrud. Klemetsrud did an excellent and delightful impersonation of the late president, both in appearance and presentation. An estimated 500-700 people were present for the ceremony.

August 19 -- "125 Years of the Best Idea America Ever Had" on August 25 at Old Faithful

"125 Years of the Best Idea America Ever Had," the celebration of Yellowstone's 125th anniversary, will take place at Old Faithful on August 25. The special program will begin at 10AM near the Old Faithful Lodge next to the Old Faithful boardwalk. Speakers for the event will include Governor James Geringer of Wyoming, Governor Philip Batt of Idaho, Senator Craig Thomas of Wyoming, and National Park Service Intermountain Regional Director John Cook. Dr. Susan Neel, Montana State University, will speak on "The Nation's Parks: An Enduring Idea." The 67th Army Band of the Wyoming National Guard from Cheyenne, Wyoming will participate in the one hour ceremony.

Other 125th anniversary activities will take place during the day at Old Faithful, including a dancing demonstration by members of the Shoshone-Bannock tribes at 12:00 noon, and a concert by the Yellowstone Harmony Chorus from Cody, Wyoming at 2:00 PM in the Old Faithful Inn lobby.

In honor of the National Park Service, August 25th has been designated "Founders Day," and access to all National Park units, including Yellowstone, is free for the day.

August 19 -- Happenings in Yellowstone

When Vice President Al Gore visited Yellowstone to participate in the 125th anniversary celebration on Sunday, he took time to stroll through the Mammoth area and talk with park rangers. Gore took the opportunity to reaffirm the administration's commitment to preserving and protecting Yellowstone. Also over the past weekend, Park officials signed a contract with Diversa Corporation (see story below) to commercially study the Park's microorganisms. Yellowstone will receive at least $175,000 from the deal.

August 16 -- Yellowstone to Get Fees and Royalties from Microbe Research

Federal officials expect to sign an agreement with a California biotech company this weekend that will foster commercial study of organisms from Yellowstone Park and yield financial gain for Yellowstone. This hallmark venture will net Yellowstone Park $20,000 a year in up-front fees from Diversa Corporation of San Diego. In addition, the Park will get an undisclosed percentage of any profits Diversa makes from their study of Yellowstone micro-organisms. The federal government will retain ownership of the organisms, while Diversa will be allowed to use the knowledge they gain from Yellowstone's microbes to cultivate additional organisms, from which the Park will get royalties.

The agreement is to be signed tomorrow as a part of Yellowstone's 125th anniversary celebration festivities. Yellowstone officials are hailing the partnership as a great move forward for the Park. Other deals with commercial entities are expected to follow. Microbiologists estimate that as many as 99% of the Park's microbes have yet to be discovered.

Two small groups -- the International Center for Technology Assessment in Washington, D.C., and The Edmonds Institute of Edmonds, Washington -- are opposing the partnership, declaring that the deal should be examined by the public before being signed.

August 14 -- Two Visitors Found Dead in Yellowstone

NPS -- Yellowstone National Park officials report that the bodies of a middle-aged man and an older woman from Idaho were discovered early Monday morning at Frog Rock, located across from the Children's Fire Trail and six miles east of Mammoth Hot Springs on the Mammoth-Tower road. The circumstances surrounding the deaths are being investigated, but preliminary indications suggest a homicide/suicide.

The bodies were found in the back of a pickup under the camper shell. The truck had first been noticed at the parking area early Sunday morning. Park rangers checked the vehicle and noted nothing unusual. The pickup was again noted in the same area that night. Again, park rangers could find nothing unusual. Monday morning, park rangers returned to the area to again try to contact the owner of the vehicle. The extremely dark windows of the camper shell made it difficult to see if anyone was inside, but it appeared that there might be someone present; park rangers also detected a smell of decay. The area was immediately secured, and the Wyoming State Crime Lab was notified.

An investigation is being conducted under the combined efforts of the National Park Service and the Wyoming State Crime Lab. The two bodies were transported to the crime lab where autopsies are being done. Identity of the bodies is being withheld pending notification of family. Further details are not available at this time.

August 13 -- Road Construction Woes; Movie "Set" in Yellowstone

Wyoming officials recently discussed ways to speed up the road construction taking place between Cody and Yellowstone. Cody businesses, which rely heavily on tourism, have seen a significant downturn in business this summer, presumably because of the construction. Officials believe the construction could be sped up if the contracts were divided upon between bridges and other projects. At this point, bridge construction is holding up progress otherwise.

Disney is shooting a film which is "set" in Yellowstone Park, although it is not filmed in the Park. The concluding scene of "Meet the Deedles" (about two Hawaiian teenagers from a royal family who are sent to North America to prove themselves, and who become rangers in Yellowstone) was recently filmed on the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River just north of Cody. The film is expected to debut on the big screen in early April, 1998.

August 12 -- New World Mine Deal: One Year Later

Exactly one year ago President Clinton announced the deal which put the brakes on the development of the New World Mine near Cooke City, Montana, just outside the Northeast section of Yellowstone National Park. The agreement stipulated that Crown Butte Inc. (owner of the New World Mine) would receive compensation for shutting down the mine. Initially, a $65 million federal land swap was on the table. However, the land swap proposal has met roadblocks, and federal and state officials are now considering paying Crown Butte $65 million in cash from the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Other proposals involving cash have also been put forth. At this point, however, one year from the announced deal, the details have yet to be worked out.

August 9 -- Park Postpones Fish Restoration Plan

Yellowstone's plan to reintroduce native fish species (specifically, cutthroat trout and artic grayling) into Yellowstone's streams has been delayed in order to give the public more time to offer input on the plan. Outfitters, guides and sport fisherman has expressed fear that the reintroduction will reduce the brown trout population in Yellowstone. Not so, say Yellowstone Park researchers. The public will have until early November to comment upon the plan.

Note: Some newspaper reports have stated that the artic grayling does not exist in Yellowstone. In truth, although grayling do not exist in Yellowstone's rivers and streams, Grebe Lake (near the Canyon Area and accessible only by trail) has a healthy population of this rare fish.

August 8 -- Vice President to Visit Park; Quarries to be Reclaimed

Vice President Al Gore will be present at "Park Protectors Day" in Yellowstone at Mammoth on Sunday, August 17th. The event is part of Yellowstone's 125th Anniversary celebration. Various groups who have helped to protect the Park, including the U.S. Army which oversaw Yellowstone from 1886-1916, will be honored during the ceremony which will begin at 11 AM with a military color guard.

In other Park news, work has begun on reclaiming two abandoned gravel quarries on west of Yellowstone Lake. The Little Thumb and Dry Creek quarries, along with associated roads, will be closed permanently. The quarries were in use in the 1920s and 1930s, supplying gravel for road construction. However, gravel erosion from Little Thumb quarry has hindered trout spawning in Little Thumb Creek, leading to the current project to restore the area to its natural habitat. Work began last week and is expected to continue through September.

August 6 -- Yellowstone Park Employee Killed in Accident

NPS -- Yellowstone National Park Superintendent Michael V. Finley is sad to have to report that park employee Rory L. Perkins, 38 years old, was killed in a tragic accident earlier this morning.

Rory, a Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic, was testing a modified snowmobile with wheels when, for an unknown reason, the machine that he was operating hit the side of the garage building at approximately 8:15 a.m. There were no witnesses to the accident. The incident is under investigation. Park staff immediately responded, a life flight was requested and was enroute. He was transported in the park ambulance to the Mammoth Clinic pending arrival of the life flight. CPR was attempted but was unsuccessful; Rory was pronounced dead at 10:15 a.m. He died from massive multiple injuries he received in the accident.

Rory began his career with the National Park Service in November of 1991 when he began work in Mammoth Hot Springs as a Heavy Mobile Equipment Mechanic. Rory was active in the Mammoth/Gardiner communities, also serving on the Mammoth Volunteer Fire Department. Before coming to Yellowstone National Park, Rory worked for more than 10 years for the Wyoming Highway Department out of Lander, Wyoming. He attended high school in Basin, Wyoming.

"Words cannot express the sorrow that all of the Yellowstone family felt upon hearing of Rory's tragic death, " said Superintendent Finley. "He was a valued employee and highly respected by his co-workers. It is indeed another sad day for all of us. Our sincere sympathy goes out to Susan, her children, and the rest of Rory's family."

Rory is survived by his wife, Susan (also a National Park Service employee at Yellowstone), a son, Robert, of the family home; and daughter Marsha Gilbert, her husband Mark and their son Markus Gilbert of Ft. Stewart, Georgia.

August 5 -- Woman Killed in Park Accident

NPS -- Yellowstone National Park officials reported today that a 40 year old woman was killed yesterday at 5:19 p.m. when her motorcycle struck a pickup truck just north of Indian Creek Campground.

Brenda Taylor of Ann Arbor, Michigan, was travelling south on the park road (0.1 mile north of the Sheepeater Cliff turnoff) when a small (three vehicle) traffic jam occurred in the northbound lane. Mrs. Taylor was accompanied by two friends on separate motorcycles who had already passed the stopped cars. The driver of the pickup truck (Mr. Leslie Molzan, 36 years of age, from Alberta, Canada) approached the other three vehicles, but could not stop in time to avoid hitting them. He swerved into the southbound lane and stopped, when Mrs. Taylor hit the pickup head-on. She was travelling at or near thespeed limit. She died immediately of massive trauma (she was wearing a helmet). It was raining heavily at the time of the accident. Park Rangers from the Mammoth area responded to the accident.

Charges against Mr. Molzan are pending the outcome of the investigation.

Mrs. Taylor is survived by her husband, Thomas Taylor, and a daughter.

Superintendent Finley reminds all travellers to the park that they should be especially watchful for vehicles stopped in the roadways. In this instance, there had been elk in the area that had attracted the attention of the other drivers. Drive defensively and, in particular, be aware of traffic congestion throughout the park.

July 31 -- Chip Seal Road Project Scheduled Between Canyon and Fishing Bridge

NPS -- Yellowstone National Park officials announced today that the Canyon-to-Fishing Bridge Junction road will be closed to traffic from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. beginning Monday, August 11, through Thursday, August 14, 1997, due to a chip sealing project. The road closure will expedite the chip sealing project and allow for a better quality finished road surface. Travelers will be able to drive on the road before 8 a.m. and after 6 p.m. each day.

Chip sealing roads is a process of placing a layer of oil and a layer of chips or aggregate and then rolling it. Chip sealing is standard procedure once a new roadway has cured for two to three years, and is also used to provide a wear surface on older roads until road reconstruction can be accomplished.

The chip sealing process must be done during warm weather, and adverse weather could delay the chip sealing and require rescheduling. If the chip sealing project is cancelled because of weather, it will be rescheduled to begin Monday, August 18, through Thursday, August 21, 1997, during the same time period as previously mentioned. Park visitors are encouraged to call the park headquarters at (307) 344-7381 for current information on road projects and closures.

July 31 -- New Exhibit on Bison to Open August 1st

NPS -- Superintendent Finley announced today that a new exhibit, Where the Buffalo Roam, will open Friday, August 1, at the Canyon Visitor Center in Yellowstone National Park. This new exhibit, which has been planned for two years, is made possible through partnership with the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody, Wyoming. The National Park Service was able to use fee demonstration money to support this project.

The exhibit traces the story of bison in "Yellowstone Country" and features interactive educational stations and two full-size dioramas with taxidermy specimens. Interpretive panels discuss the earliest human accounts of bison, their natural history, and their cultural significance. The exhibit also presents issues that have arisen when this wild, nomadic animal confronts the modern, developed world.

Superintendent Finley stated, "Yellowstone National Park is indeed fortunate to have partners like the Buffalo Bill Historical Center in Cody. Without the assistance of the Center's staff, this exhibit would not have been possible. Generous donations from the Shoshone First Bank in Cody, Park County (Wyoming) Travel Council, Nancy-Carroll Draper of Cody, and the National Park Foundation were used as well as monies from the National Park Service's increased entrance fee program to produce this exhibit."

The exhibit opens at 10 a.m. on Friday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Refreshments will be served. The exhibit will remain at the Canyon Visitor Center for years to come. The Canyon Visitor Center is open this year through September.

July 30 -- Yellowstone Photographic Retrospective on Display

NPS -- Superintendent Michael Finley announced today that a photographic retrospective in honor of Yellowstone National Park's 125th anniversary is being displayed this summer at various Hamilton Stores in the park. The traveling exhibit features 27 images reprinted from the Haynes Foundation Collection housed at the Montana Historical Society in Helena, Montana.

Most of the original photographs were taken by F. Jay Haynes, official photographer for the Northern Pacific Railroad, who first came to Yellowstone in 1881. Mr Haynes was employed by the Northern Pacific Railroad to photograph the park's wonders in order to publicize and promote the park as a vacation destination. In 1885, F. Jay Haynes established a photographic business that continued as a family-run business until 1968, when Hamilton Stores acquired the business from Mrs. Jack Ellis Haynes (the widow of F. Jay Haynes' son).

Hamilton Stores has been a concessioner in Yellowstone since 1915. The company was started by Charles Hamilton and has remained a family-run business operating the general stores in the park. It is the oldest privately owned business in the national park system. Superintendent Finley stated, "We are pleased that Hamilton Stores has chosen to share these wonderful photos with park visitors, many of whom would not otherwise have the opportunity to see what the park was like in those early days. Hamilton Stores continues to be a partner with Yellowstone National Park as we celebrate the best idea America ever had--our national parks."

The retrospective show can be seen at various Hamilton Stores throughout the summer until September 8. To find out which store the show is at for a particular date, please ask at any Hamilton Stores in the park or call Hamilton Stores in West Yellowstone at 406-646-7325.

July 28 -- No Hope for Brucellosis; Park Asking for ID

Yellowstone National Park's chief bison specialist, Mary Meagher, has stated that she sees no hope for eradiating brucellosis in the Park's bison herd. Meager noted that the high concentration of elk, which carry the disease and transmit it to bison, in the Yellowstone Park / Jackson Hole area will probably ensure that Yellowstone's bison herd is always in danger of carrying the disease. Meanwhile, the National Parks and Conservation Association announced that fifty (50) Yellowstone-area businesses are now participating in its "Bison Belong" campaign. (See the July 21 news entry.)

Yellowstone Park is now asking for a photo ID for those visitors who enter the Park via a year pass. Fraud has become a problem at Yellowstone as more and more visitors, it would seem, are entering the Park using a park pass other then there own.

July 25 -- Lost Park Employee Rescued

Mac Lojowsky, 19, of Bay Village, Ohio, missing in Yellowstone since Tuesday, was found unharmed Thursday evening. A search helicopter located Lojowsky, an Amfac employee who works at Canyon Lodge. Other than being tired, hungry and sunburned, Lojowsky was otherwise in good shape. He had set out on a day hike near the east end of Specimen Ridge, and had become disoriented and was unable to find his way out. Fifty park staff, two helicopters and three dog teams were involved in the search for Lojowsky on Thursday.

July 23 -- Female Wolf Found Dead in Yellowstone

NPS -- Yellowstone National Park biologists report that during a monitoring flight on Friday, July 18, 1997, they received a mortality signal from the radio collar of female wolf No. 17 of the Chief Joseph pack. She was one of the first generation of litters born in 1995 under the wolf restoration program. Her mother was female wolf No. 9 of the Rose Creek pack; her father was male wolf No. 10, who was killed outside of Red Lodge, Montana, in the spring of 1995. This is the twenty-third wolf mortality since the beginning of the restoration program.

On Friday afternoon, biologists retrieved the animal's carcass near Fawn Creek in the northwest portion of the park. An examination showed the female wolf died as a result of injuries sustained from a stick through her chest. Biologists speculate No. 17 could have run into a stick protruding from the ground while chasing wildlife.

During Friday's flight, park biologists noted the five pups born to No. 17 this year were traveling with their father (No. 34) in the northwest section of the park. Also sighted on this flight were five pups with female No. 16 of the Chief Joseph pack, a sibling of No. 17. The pups and No. 16 were located in another location in the northwest portion of the park. Another pup was spotted with the Crystal Creek pack in the Pelican Valley portion of the park. This is the second pup that has been seen with this pack.

July 22 -- August Events Celebrating Yellowstone's 125th Year

NPS -- Yellowstone National Park Superintendent Michael V. Finley announced today that plans for the August commemorative/celebratory events in honor of the park's 125th anniversary have been determined and are listed below.

August 1: In a brief program beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, August 1, the newly installed bison exhibit, Where the Buffalo Roam, will be dedicated. Refreshments will be served after the ceremony. Location: Canyon Visitor Center.

August 17: This event will honor protectors of Yellowstone and will begin at 11:00 a.m. on Sunday, August 17. The theme was originally focused on the military's contribution to the park, but has since been broadened to include the opportunity to honor all the protectors of Yellowstone. A military band will be present as well as military reenactors. The program will also include the dedication of the newly installed Fort Yellowstone self-guided tour. Location: Mammoth Hot Springs Parade Ground (across from the Albright Visitor Center).

August 25: Beginning at 10:00 a.m. on Monday, August 25, this program will take a retrospective look at the park's first 125 years and a contemplative look forward to its next 125 years. Invited speakers will present their thoughts on the value of Yellowstone and the importance of the national park idea. Because the actual date of Yellowstone's establishment is March 1, the August 25 date was chosen for this event because it is the establishment date for the National Park Service. Location: Old Faithful (outside, near the Old Faithful Lodge).

Superintendent Finley invites everyone to attend these events and to help celebrate "125 years of the best idea America ever had." Additional details of each event will be released as the event date approaches.

July 21 -- National Park's and Conservation Association's "Bison Belong" Campaign Underway

NPCA -- The National Park and Conservation Association has teamed up with Yellowstone-area businesses to start the "Bison Belong" campaign, a call for the end of the excess bison slaughter that last winter witnessed. To see how you can get involved, call 1-800-NAT-PARK or email grootsnp@aol.com

July 16 -- Poaching Conviction

NPS -- Yellowstone National Park Superintendent Michael Finley announced today that William Boone, of Emigrant, Montana, pled guilty on April 24, 1997, to illegally taking a bull elk, possession of an elk head with rack and two molted elk antlers, possession of a firearm, conducting business operations without a permit, and transportation of game without a permit.

In a plea agreement signed last week, Mr. Boone agreed to pay $3,000 restitution to the park, was assessed $10 to the Victim/Witness Fund, and placed on probation for three years. During his probation, Mr. Boone is prohibited from entering the park.

In February 1994, the U.S. Forest Service initiated an investigation on Mr. Boone for illegally guiding and outfitting on National Forest Service Land. After a two year investigation, Mr. Boone was found guilty and ordered to pay fines and restitution of $9,000. Information from the 1995 fall investigation and observations by park rangers during the fall of 1996 initiated the charges.

Superintendent Finley reminds all park visitors that removing animal parts, possession of firearms in the backcountry, and conducting business operations in the park without a permit is prohibited by law and subject to a fine and/or jail. Anyone who has information regarding poaching or other illegal operations in Yellowstone National Park is encouraged to contact park headquarters at (307) 344-7381.

July 16 -- Wolf Killed by Vehicle in Park

NPS -- Yellowstone National Park officials confirm that a male yearling wolf, No. 66, was killed early this morning(July 14) when it was struck by a vehicle near the Grebe Lake trailhead on the road between Canyon andNorris in the park. There were no witnesses to the accident, so it is unclear what time the wolf was hit.Park officials received notification of the incident when it was reported at approximately 7 a.m. by a parkvisitor calling 9-1-1.

"This is a very unfortunate incident because the loss of any animal from this small population is a great lossto the restorationprogram. The wolf was in excellent condition and would have been a great asset to therecovery process," Superintendent Finley noted. He urged visitors to be extremely cautious while drivingroads in the park. Wildlife are often near or crossing roadways and hard to see. Wolves especially areactive during the early morning and late evening hours.

The young male was one of the ten pups from the Sawtooth pack that were brought to the park inSeptember 1996. Thewolf was held at the Nez Perce acclimation site and released in the park in the OldFaithful area on June 9, 1997. The yearling was part of an unnamed pack of 5 wolves (#27, #37, #29, #70& #66) that have been located in the Hayden Valley area of the park. This is the fourth wolf to be killed bya vehicle and the twenty-second wolf mortality since the beginning of the restoration program in 1995.

July 13 -- Park Visitation Slightly Off Thus Far in 1997

According to numbers released by the National Park Service, visitation to Yellowstone this year is slightly off from last year. This year's total stands at 819,277, compared to 862,459 at this point in 1996, for a total drop of 5%. Of the five entrances into the Park, only the Northeast gate is showing an increase so far this year, with an increase of 33.4%. Declines range from -3.4% to -9.4% at the other gates. Officials speculate that a cool, wet spring, road construction between Cody and the East gate, and mudslides south of the Park may have contributed to the overall decline.

July 11 -- Weekend Yellowstone News

All of the areas of Yellowstone closed because of denning wolves (see story below) are now open, with the exception of one small area in the Lamar Valley, which should be open within a week, according to Park officials.

The new activity of the once-dormat Rustic Geyser has attracted a lot of attention to Heart Lake Geyser Basin, one of two wilderness geyser basins in Yellowstone. Erupting every 30-40 minutes to a height of about 30 feet, Rustic is located on the northwest shore of Heart Lake in the southeastern portion of Yellowstone. It is a fifteen mile hike to Rustic, and Park officials caution that it is a strenuous outing. Read more about Rustic in the Geyser Discussion Forum.

Whirling disease has been found for the first time in the Yellowstone River. The parasite-caused disease which infects young trout, causing them to essentially swim in endless circles, was found in some Rainbow trout at the convergence of DuPoys Creek and the Yellowstone River north of the Park, near Livingston, Montana. Whirling disease has affected a number of streams and rivers in western Montana and is posing a serious risk to the trout populations in Montana waterways.

July 10 -- Yellowstone Wolf Den Closures

NPS -- Recent reports that large areas of Yellowstone National Park are closed due to wolf denning are not correct. Park officials report that all but one of the small area closures in effect earlier in the park arenow open to the public. The one small closure that remains in effect is in the upper Lamar Valley area where the Druid Peak wolf pack has two separate dens close together. These wolves use the Lamar Valley (which has no closures) near the dens and are very visible. Many visitors park in this area to view wolves and other wildlife. Giving protection to this small area--where there are no trails or human use--has no impact on visitor use but instead provides many visitors with the opportunity to see wolves. Park biologists are concerned that if the area were opened while the wolves are still there, some visitors would go in to see the wolves more closely. This harassment would likely cause the wolves to leave the area and spoil viewing opportunities for many other people. As soon as the wolves move away from the dens, which will likely be in the next week or so, the area will be reopened.

Wildlife management closures have had minimal impact on park visitors. Closures are generally in areas that are not normally travelled or used by park visitors, and no trails were closed or impacted by any of the wildlife management closures. In some areas (e.g., Specimen Ridge), closures were specifically designed using trails as boundaries so visitors were still able to use the trails but not allowed to go off-trail into the closed area. Other closures were necessary because of high visitor impact, specifically in the area used to view and look for denning wolves. In the Junction Butte area, the Rose Creek pack established two den sites that were very visible from the road. Throughout the denning period, 20-30 vehicles with well over 100 park visitors were regularly on the roadway near the dens looking for or viewing the wolves. Closures were necessary in this area to prevent park visitors from entering the area, impacting the wolves, and forcing them to abandon the den during a time critical to the safety of the pups. As soon as the wolves moved from the dens, the closure was lifted.

The final rule published in the Federal Register in November 1994 defines management protocol and regulations for reintroducing wolves as a nonessential experimental population in Yellowstone National Park. The rule allows for land-use restrictions on an as-needed basis in areas where wolves are confined. It allows national parks or national wildlife refuges to control intrusive human disturbance around active wolf den sites. Normally these restrictions can occur from April 1 to June 30. Many of the den areas had no restrictions associated with them because they were in remote areas with low visitor
use.

July 8 -- Portions of Lamar Valley Trails Closed for Wolf Reintroduction Program

To the dismay of wolf opponents, portions of some Lamar Valley trails remain closed to the public for the purpose of protecting denning wolves in the ongoing Wolf Reintroduction Program. One of the affected trails is the popular Specimen Ridge Trail. Managment plans had called for the closings to terminate by June 30. Yellowstone officials have stated that the extended closings are for the protection of the young wolf pups and that the closed areas will be re-opened as soon as possible. If you wish to express your voice about the trail closings or other Yellowstone wildlife issues, visit the Wildlife Forum.

July 8 -- Environmental Assessement of Fish Restoration up for Public Review

Yellowstone National Park Superintendent Michael Finley announced today that the Environmental Assessment (EA) of a Project to Restore Westslope Cutthroat Trout and Fluvial Arctic Grayling in Yellowstone National Park is now available for public review. The draft document describes two alternatives that would restore westslope cutthroat trout and fluvial arctic grayling (both native fishes) to selected waters formally occupied by them in the park, as required by the park's mandate to protect indigenous species. Although neither species is currently listed as a threatened or endangered species, both are in danger of disappearing from the Yellowstone ecosystem.

The preferred alternative would restore the two native species by removing or suppressing exotic (non-native) fishes. Although the EA addresses the goal of restoring these species, it does not identify the specific actions that would be taken at any given site, nor does it identify the specific project sites. The intent of the EA is to develop annual work plans for timely distribution to interested parties describing sites where there is a high probability for a successful project action. Annual work plans will include detailed descriptions of conditions at the proposed site, the combination of tools proposed for use in the restoration, and the environmental impacts associated with the proposal.

Methods available for meeting project goals include removal of exotic species from a stream, restockingwith westslope cutthroat trout or grayling, and construction of barriers (probably velocity barriers) to prevent re-entry of exotic fish to a project area. Removal methods include chemical treatment, electrofishing, netting, trapping, and/or sport fishing. Conditions at a site will determine the method or combination of methods needed. Chemical removal can be expected to be effective only in small streams. In large streams, spawning by exotic fish will have to be reduced by removing potential spawners in conjunction with supplementation of the indigenous population.

This environmental assessment will be on public review for the next 30 days. A copy of the draft EA is available by writing: Natural Resources Office, Native Fishes EA, P.O. Box 168, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming 82190. Comments must be received in writing to the same address by August 4, 1997.

June 26 -- Bison Management Plan

Federal and state officials have agreed upon a plan that, if implemented, will maintain a wild-free roaming herd of bison in the Yellowstone area while at the same time will address the concerns of the cattle industry in Montana. The report is scheduled to be released to the public later this summer. For more information, read the NPS press release.

June 17 -- Earthquakes and Road Closures

Unusually intense earthquake activity has been reported in the Norris area. For the latest on this development, click on the earthquake links on our home page, and check out the Geyser forum. Also, mudslides on roads leading into Yellowstone may affect your travel plans. For updated information, visit the Travel forum.

June 15 -- Boating Fatalities in Yellowstone Lake

Read about the death of two park visitors in Yellowstone park by clicking here.

June 11 -- Rain and Mudslides

For the past two weeks, rain has been the norm in Yellowstone. As a result of the heavy rains, two small mudslides occurred this past Sunday, trapping twelve cars for about two hours. No one was injured, and the road is now clear.

Debate continues over whether or not Yellowstone is overgrazed and thus overpopulated with wildlife. Advocates of controlled wildlife population growth contend that the terrain is more barren than land outside of the Park which is used to graze cattle or than land on which nothing is allowed to graze. On the other hand, Park service officials point to the fact that the variety of plant and grass species found in Yellowstone Park on naturally grazed land is much greater than that found on regulated or cattle-grazed land. Several studies indicate Yellowstone's terrain is not overgrazed, but the debate over wildlife management in the Park continues.

Also: The road between Madison and Old Faithful is only open from 9AM-9PM for the rest of the summer, due to construction.

May 25 -- The Summer Season is Underway!

Memorial Day weekend marks the official beginning of the summer season in Yellowstone Park. All of the roads in the Park are open with the exception of the Roosevelt to Canyon road. Much snow remains on the ground in many areas of the Park, including the Canyon area, the northeast area, and the southern portions of the Park. The Beartooth Highway from Red Lodge, Montana to the Northeast gate of Yellowstone. Road construction delays are present from Cody, Wyoming to Fishing Bridge and between Madison and Old Faithful within the Park. Bear sightings are common right now, particularly between Canyon and Lake.

May 14 -- Record numbers of Elk and Deer killed by Hard Winter

Arial surveys this week have revealed record numbers of elk and deer killed in the northern reaches of Yellowstone Park. The deaths are blamed on the harsh winter the region experienced, a winter which produced record snowfall throughout much of Montana and Wyoming. Click here for more information.

May 13 -- Norris Campground will be open this Summer!

According to YNP Assistant Superintendent Marvin Jensen, Norris Campground will be open this summer, Yellowstone's 125th year. Last summer, Norris was closed because of budget constraints.

May 12 -- A New Snow Lodge is Now Under Construction

A 100,000 square foot complex with 100 guest rooms will replace the old snow lodge. The project will take two years to complete and will cost an estimated $17 million. Click here for more information.

May 12 -- Crews are Hard at Work on Plowing the Beartooth Highway

As spring slowly comes to Montana and Wyoming, road crews are hard at work plowing the 10,947 foot high Beartooth Highway, which stretches from Red Lodge, Montana, to Yellowstone's Northeast gate. Click here for more information.

May 2 -- The Old Faithful Inn Opened Today

The opening of the Old Faithful Inn marks the beginning of the "summer" season in Yellowstone Park. Read the NPS press release about the Old Faithful Inn.

April 29 -- Budget Increases Only Half of Expenses

A study by the General Accounting Office has revealed that while Yellowstone's budget increased by $2 million during the past three years, the expenses incurred by the Park rose by $4 million.

April 18 -- West and North Gates to Yellowstone Now Open

North and west side roads open to motor vehicles. Mammoth to Norris Junction to Madison Junction to Old Faithful; Norris Junction to Canyon; and Madison Junction to West Entrance.

April 11 -- 500,000 Schoolchildren Worldwide to Study Yellowstone

Through modern computer and communications technology, 500,000 schoolchildren worldwide will watch live as scientists study geysers and track bears and wolves in Yellowstone Park later this month. This is a part of the Jason Project, an annual event designed to boost interest in science and the earth among schoolchildren. A select group of thirty students will work in the Park with scientists as tens of thousands more watch live. For more information about the Jason Project, go http://www.jason8.eds.com.

March 23 -- "Town Meeting" in Gardiner, Montana

A town meeting in Gardiner, Montana, brought state and federal officials and concerned citizens together to discuss the ongoing bison slaughter. Nothing concrete emerged from the heavily-attended meeting at the northeast entrance to Yellowstone. However, the meeting did provide a good opportunity for various officials and concerned citizens to voice their feelings about the ongoing situation. Also, Yellowstone Park officials recently issued their annual spring "bear warning," notifying visitors that with warm weather approaching, bears will be coming out of hibernation.

March 19 -- Bison Count Very Low

Yesterday an aerial survey of Yellowstone bison counted about 1100 animals in the Park, down from 3500 a few months ago. Bison numbers seem to be approaching dangerously low levels, but the hand-wringing and paralysis continues on the part of government officials. There is talk of a federal moratorium on killing bison, but such a move is only speculation at this point.

March 9 -- Yellowstone Tragedy

Last week, two geologists died in an avalanche near Heart Lake in the southern portion of the Park. The victims were Roderick "Rick" Hutchinson, 49, and Diane Dustman, 37. Hutchinson was employed full-time by Yellowstone Park as a geologist, while Dustman, a geologist from Boston, was volunteering her time in the Park. Hutchinson, a full-time Park employee since 1976, was considered the world's foremost expert on Yellowstone's thermal features. He will be sorely missed by the Yellowstone community and by his colleagues in the field of geology. (For more information, check the NPS press releases.)

February 27 -- Proposed Bison Solution

As federal and state officials struggle with how to deal with the ongoing bison problem, one proposal sets forth outlines a three pronged approach: 1) allow the bison to range outside Yellowstone in certain areas to give them more room and a larger food supply, 2) to put a cap on the number of bison living inside Yellowstone's boundaries, and 3) vaccinate the bison against brucellosis.

February 18 -- Yellowstone in the News

With some 900 bison having been slaughtered to date, numerous groups are offering proposals to the bison problem, although no solution has actually been reached. The state of Montana and the federal government are dialoguing on final details regarding President Clinton's land-swap deal which put a stop to mining operations near the Park's northeastern boundary last year.

February 11 -- General News

The bison slaughter continues, with one count estimating that only about 2000 bison remain in Yellowstone. The winter season in Yellowstone is in its last few weeks. Starting March 3, roads will begin closing to snowmobile traffic. Crosscountry skiiers can continue to ski until the snow turns rotten, however.

February 1 -- State and National Politicians, Agencies Struggle with Bison Problem

As the eyes of the nation are upon the ongoing Yellowstone bison controversy, polticians and agencies are struggling to find a quick solution to curb the killing of the bison. No fully acceptable proposal has surfaced at this point. A proposal this weekend to allow hunters to legally hunt stray bison does not seem to adequately address the problem. An earlier proposal this week to truck some of the stray bison to Indian reservation "holding" areas is still being discussed and seems to have some merits. In the meantime, some 765 bison have been killed or shipped off to slaughter. An estimated 2100 bison remain in the Yellowstone area, and there is great concern that the Yellowstone bison herd population is approaching a "crash point" in terms of genetic makeup.

January 24 -- Bison to be Controlled by Fence

Yellowstone Park officials, Montana politicians and many other concerned individuals hope that a soon-to-be-erected 500 foot containment fence north of Gardiner, Montana, will discourage bison from wandering any further out of Yellowstone Park. The nation is watching as a record number of bison have been killed this winter in an effort at disease control. The fence is only a temporary measure until a more permanent solution can be worked out. In addition to causing bison to leave the Park, the severe winter season is causing elk to leave the Park in unusually large numbers, a situation which also has Park officials worried.

January 18 -- Of Wolf and Bison

A female wolf accused of killing a number of sheep just north of Yellowstone has been returned to the Park. Also, a total of 560 Yellowstone bison have been killed thus far this winter for disease control, nine short of the record for any given winter.

January 11 -- More Bison Slaughtered

Extremely cold weather is blanketing the Montana-Wyoming region, and Bison are heading for the Park's northern boundaries in droves to seek relief. As a result, many Bison are being captured for slaughter in the Gardiner area, while others are being disposed of on site, in accordance with the current "Bison control plan" designed to help the spread of brucelosis.

January 2 -- Warm Weather Halts Snowmobiling

Following blizzard conditions last week, a major warm spell this week has melted the snow on the roadways and halted snowmobiling on the western side of Yellowstone. Forecasters expect colder conditions and more snow later this week.

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1996 News Stories

December 20 -- Yellowstone News Clips

According to the BILLINGS GAZETTE, a higher court has upheld the bison management plan for Yellowstone bison who wonder out of Park boundaries in the wintertime. The Greater Yellowstone Coalition is charging that the National Park Service and the U.S. Forest Service are not following the recommendations of a Greater Yellowstone Area management plan enacted in the 1980's. Also, two wolves captured in Idaho were taken back to the Park and placed in holding pens.

December 19 -- Yellowstone Park Officials Declare that New Entrance Fees Won't Automatically Assure Long Season

Earlier this year, Yellowstone Park suprintendent Michael Finley caused quite a stir when he suggested that financial woes might lead to a shortening of the summer park season by 77 days. Although the recently announced park fee hike will increase Yellowstone revenues by a projected $6.7 million over the next three years, the park service is indicating that the new revenue will be targeted for maintenance needs, rather than for hiring more personnel or funding new programs. In light of this fact, Yellowstone officials are noting that a shortened summer season is yet a possibility in 1997.

December 12 -- State of Wyoming to Begin New Tourism Campaign

The state of Wyoming will be introducing a new tourism campaign in 1997, with Yellowstone Park being a focal point of the new campaign.

December 1 -- Haynes' Yellowstone Photographs on Display in Smithsonian

Photographer Frank Jay Haynes helped make Yellowstone Park a prominent place during the early years of the Park, and now his work is on display at the Smithsonian's National Museum of American Art. From the 1880s through the 1910s, Haynes operated a studio and photography gallery in Yellowstone, and his photographs of the Park became famous the world over.

November 27 -- U.S. Government Announces Increase in Park Fees

The government announced that as of next year, entrance fees into the nation's national parks will be increased. The increase will come into effect first in the nation's most popular parks -- Yellowstone, Yosemite, Grand Tetons and Grand Canyon. An annual Yellowstone Park pass will be raised from $15 to $40 per carload. The new price structure will bring in more revenue for the National Park Service and will more accurately reflect the current economic realities in the marketplace.

November 26 -- Bison Calves to be Vaccinated

THE BOZEMAN CHRONICLE reports that 36 bison calves from Yellowstone Park will be shipped to eastern Wyoming to be vaccinated with an experimental brucellosis vaccine.

November 24 -- Park Concessionaire Loses Exclusive Rights

THE BILLINGS GAZETTE reports that Hamilton Stores, the main gift shop operator in Yellowstone Park, had its exclusive right to sell souvenirs bearing the "Yellowstone" name or certain Park images (such as Old Faithful) revoked. This move allows TW Recreational Services, the Park lodging concessionaire, to start selling "Yellowstone" souvenirs. Since TW Services returns ten times more of its revenues to the government than does Hamilton Stores, the park's income will multiply.

November 24 -- Montana Involved in Deciding Fate of Wandering Yellowstone Bison

THE BILLINGS GAZETTE reports that the federal government has allowed the state of Montana to get involved in challenging a temporary plan for managing bison which wander out of Yellowstone Park this winter. Bison are considered by some to be a threat to the health of cattle because some carry a disease called "brucellosis," which can cause cows to abort their calves. However, many consider killing the bison inhuman. Click here for more information on the bison and brucellosis problem.

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