The Illinois Department of Natural Resources is collecting used Christmas trees to create aquatic habitats in state lakes, with drop-off locations available post-holidays.

Loyce E. Harpe Park reopens on weekends after Hurricane Milton with limited facilities, including a dog park, skate park, bike trails, and fishing areas, while still serving as a storm debris management site on weekdays.

Blaine, Minnesota has opened its outdoor ice rinks for the winter season, offering residents the opportunity to ice skate during specified hours throughout the week.

The City of Grand Rapids has received a permit from Michigan EGLE to proceed with the Grand River rejuvenation, which involves dam removal and river restoration to enhance recreational and ecological aspects.

Schofield has applied for a DNR grant to buy land to expand a city park and improve lake access. The 0.13-acre purchase would enhance outdoor activities but may lead to hunting and trapping restrictions.

Point Reyes National Seashore celebrates the birth of the season's first elephant seal pup, urging visitors to respect the critical nursing period by observing beach closures and guidelines.

Wright County updates its campground reservation system for 2025, giving residents early booking access and raising fees for non-residents. Extended camping seasons for some parks are also announced.

Sand Key Park reopens Dec. 21 after hurricane restoration, offering amenities like trails, a dog area, and picnic spots, despite a parking fee increase to $6 on Jan. 1. Pinellas County also progresses with other park re-openings post-hurricanes.

Hawaiʻi has launched the Reef Habitat Plan, leveraging local fishers' knowledge for nearshore habitat management without new regulations, utilizing federal grants and online surveys for community input.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources is beginning construction at Van Buren State Park to restore Rocky Ford Creek and create a wetland complex, improving the ecosystem and recreational opportunities.

Starting January 1, 2025, Fort Worth will align city park hours to 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., changing the previous 11:30 p.m. closing time, with some exceptions for events or permits.

The California Dungeness crab fishery opens on January 5, with a 50% trap reduction to protect marine life, impacting California's lucrative crab market.

The San Francisco Zoo welcomes a new Bactrian camel to its Asian Conservation Zone, aiding in the effort to conserve the critically endangered species.