Katherine Rose Memorial Park in Mansfield is reopening with refurbished playgrounds and amenities, featuring a ribbon-cutting ceremony with the mayor and Santa. Patrons are advised about parking and to be patient due to expected large crowds.

South Pasadena inaugurated the Dr. Beatriz Solis Memorial Park, honoring the educator and social advocate, with local officials at a ribbon-cutting event.

Sterling Heights, MI introduced a Little Free Sled Library for residents to borrow sleds for winter fun, supported by the Parks and Rec and Public Library.

Eden Prairie, Minnesota is managing its white-tailed deer population to reduce deer-vehicle collisions and overgrazing, with ongoing operations until March.

Chronic wasting disease (CWD) was detected in a road-killed deer in Wayne County, Tennessee, prompting the TWRA to enforce existing carcass transport and wildlife feeding restrictions and maintain current hunting regulations.

The Lānaʻi Fifth Street Courts in Maui County will reopen on December 18 after renovations, offering facilities for various sports and improved features like new lighting and ADA-compliant amenities.

The Maryland Zoo welcomed a new male giraffe named Big Mac, who is set to make his public debut on December 22. He's part of efforts to diversify the zoo's giraffe genetics.

Oakland Zoo says Zawadi, a young reticulated giraffe, was found dead on Monday; staff are mourning and have asked for privacy.

Argyle Police safely returned two cows that had wandered off. The local community helped, and the police thanked everyone involved in managing the bovine escapade.

Miami-Dade County announces a major upgrade for San Jacinto Park, including a new playground, pathways, and amenities to improve community recreation.

Ten senior U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service scientists have left Hawaiʻi posts amid agency-wide staffing cuts. Conservationists warn refuges and endangered species could suffer as a result.

El Paso City Council voted Dec. 16 to rename Fortaleza Park to Trotter Memorial Park in honor of two Fort Bliss children who died in the Ruidoso flash floods. The move formalizes a neighborhood memorial.

Councilwoman Allen-Palenske will inaugurate a new playground at Police Memorial Park in Las Vegas, reflecting extensive park renovations funded by the city and donations.