A horned scarab is eating into Hawaii’s palms. Islands are combining dogs, traps, bans and lab research to stop the coconut rhinoceros beetle from spreading.

Enhancements to Willis Winters Park, formerly known as Randall Park, include a new fitness trail set for early spring completion and planned upgrades to the baseball fields, softball fields, and a playground by 2026.

Mansfield, Texas, celebrates the opening of Katherine Rose Memorial Park, featuring an inclusive playground designed to accommodate children of all abilities.

Henry Horton State Park won the Excellence in Visitor Experience Award for enhancing accessibility and services, and is planning further improvements with a $7 million budget. Other parks also received awards for various achievements.

Years of neighborhood organizing paid off this month as John H. Kelly Park in Lakeview broke ground on a long‑planned renovation. The overhaul is funded by state grants, a Cubs contribution and local donors.

SeaWorld Orlando announced the death of Katina, a 50-year-old killer whale, after a decline in health, highlighting her contributions to the park and conservation efforts.

Manatee County seeks volunteers for its Environmental Lands Management and Acquisition Committee to help oversee local environmental policy, land purchases, and conservation efforts.

Louisiana's LDWF has announced the closure of oyster harvesting in parts of Drum Bay and Shell Point Reef due to a "localized mortality event" and overharvesting, affecting 1,843 acres.

Gantz Park in Grove City is offering a Winter Wildlife Wonderland with lights and decorations every evening until December 31, for a serene, festive experience.

A Chimney Rock webcam captured two people throwing rocks at a resting elephant seal; park officials are asking for help to identify them. Investigators are reviewing livestream footage.

Hays County is allocating $17 million to build a Hillside Campus and an elevated “Warbler’s Nest” at Sentinel Peak Preserve, with reservation-only access and most acreage kept as habitat. The work could open the preserve in some form in 2027.

Participate in a guided night snowshoe hike at Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve on January 2, with alternative boot hiking if no snow. Reservation and fee required.

Boulder County rangers to assess parks for safety; caution advised due to potential fallen trees; Heil Valley Ranch closed post-fire; county seeks hazard reports from public.