The Houston Zoo has begun multi‑year upgrades to its African habitats, adding shade, a renovated rhino yard, giraffe improvements and a refreshed Shani Market. Phased openings are expected through 2026 and into early 2027.

Southwest Williamson County Regional Park in Leander has installed electric gates to improve park access and security, operational from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Minneapolis hosts winter community events featuring Indigenous art snow sculptures, game nights, ice lantern crafting, sewing classes, and book discussions to celebrate culture and community engagement.

NDOW celebrates the successful restoration of a crucial refuge pond for the endangered Pahranagat roundtail chub, with 1,000 hatchery-reared fish ready to repopulate.

The City's Park & Recreation Department is improving the Unimproved Alley Mowing Program with a $2.3 million budget increase to regularly maintain all alleys.

Governor Kathy Hochul announces $67.5 million NY PLAYS grant program to build and revamp playgrounds in New York State, targeting municipalities and nonprofits, with a focus on underserved communities.

A WFAA video shows coyotes moving through a Fort Worth neighborhood near active construction. Wildlife experts and city officials urge secure trash and hazing to reduce conflicts.

Clayton County invites community members to discuss the future of local parks and recreation on January 26, 2026, at Carl Rhodenizer Recreation Center or via Zoom.

California State Parks announces controlled burns in Mount Diablo State Park to reduce wildfire risks and support ecosystem health between Jan 15 and Mar 15; timing depends on weather and air quality.

Makiki welcomes a new off-leash dog park in Punahou Square, opened by Honolulu's Department of Parks and Recreation, offering local dog owners a fenced space and shaded area under a Moreton Bay Fig tree.

The San Francisco Zoo euthanized two longtime residents — Eno the lemur and Freckles the penguin — after sudden health declines; postmortem tests are pending.

CAL FIRE CZU plans a controlled burn in Huddart County Park to reduce wildfire risks by eliminating dead wood and maintaining fuel breaks. The operation is a preventive measure for community safety.

Mecklenburg County experienced a year without unhealthy pollution levels, meeting strict air quality standards. This achievement was credited to favorable weather and pollution reduction efforts.