High Country News September 17, 2012
Feature
Can pallid sturgeon hang on in the overworked Missouri River?
In the dam-locked Upper Missouri, scientists search for signs that the ancient species hasn't reached the end of its line.
Great Basin scientists unleash new weapons to fight invasive cheatgrass
A trio of dedicated scientists are testing out cutting-edge ways to finally turn the tide against the Great Basin's cheatgrass invasion, as the weed continues to cause devastating fires.
Current
The politics of public health
Environmental regulations are a favorite target in the runup to this year's election.
The great New Mexican juniper massacre
On public land in New Mexico, firewood-hunters have illegally cut down hundreds of old-growth juniper trees, much to the dismay of the Bureau of Land Management and environmental activists.
One Sagebrush Rebellion flickers out -- or does it?
Wayne Hage's 20-year court battle over ranching on public lands comes to a close, but his son continues to tussle with the feds.
Fire scientists fight over what Western forests should look like
Controversial new studies question the conventional wisdom on Western ponderosa forests and the severity of their historic wildfires.
Editor's Note
Salvation for our dam nation?
Although dam removals are occurring across the West, they're the exception more than the rule. And some dwindling species, like pallid sturgeon, may not be able to wait for our rivers to return to normal.
Book Reviews
Song of loss and redemption: A review of Theft
In Colorado essayist BK Loren's first novel, the loss of nature is linked to the loss of a loved one, and grief becomes a territory to be explored.
Home improvement: A review of Sugarhouse
A hilarious memoir of home renovation, road trips, and redemption by writer Matthew Batt.
Essays
Storm on Lava Creek: A season in Yellowstone
The power of a thunderstorm thrills a newcomer to Yellowstone National Park.
