A new Mangrove Threat Index from Scripps and Mexican partners scores patches 0–1 to identify forests at immediate risk and guide protection. Local tests in La Paz show the index predicts where losses are likely to happen.

Park rangers on a predawn patrol weren't expecting to find a sea lion napping against a utility pole in the Outer Sunset — but here we are. Irving, as the pup has since been named, is now at The Marine Mammal Center in Sausalito awaiting a full veterinary workup.

San Marcos will charge non-resident visitors $5 to enter Rio Vista Park on busy summer weekends and holidays. Residents and many local-area participants remain exempt with a park pass.

City planners will gather feedback April 25 on draft rules to curb decorative turf and boost native, pollinator‑friendly plantings.

Abrams Falls Trail was closed April 12 after park officials reported bear activity. Rangers urge hikers to stay 50 yards away and report sightings.

Wadsworth has banned fishing at the Brickyard while crews remove asbestos, arsenic and other contaminants as part of a multi‑phase remediation and park build. City documents and testing show targeted excavation and topsoil replacement will be used to make the site safe.

A black bear tracked since July 2025 has reemerged in East Texas, and TPWD says it overwintered there — a first in more than 50 years.

A young mountain lion that wandered into Salida was sedated by CPW after sightings near an elementary school and then relocated to safer habitat.

More than 3,000 volunteers hit 33 sites during Baynanza, hauling out over 20,000 pounds of trash as officials warn Biscayne Bay is approaching a tipping point.

Seattle Parks' draft would end many dual‑use courts; local players have launched a petition saying dozens of outdoor pickleball courts could be removed. Public comment is open through mid‑May.

Fairfield is moving ahead with a roughly $12M Marsh Park makeover that adds trails, docks and a 6,000‑sq‑ft restaurant — neighbors are organizing a petition for a November vote.

Forest Park topped USA TODAY's 10Best readers' poll as it marks 150 years, capping a streak of national recognition for the 1,300‑acre park.

St. Johns County has purchased about 33 acres adjacent to the Elkton fairgrounds to reserve land for a future regional park as part of its parks expansion. Officials say the buy supports a larger $123M parks program.