A nonprofit of lawyers, scientists, and activists protecting species and wild places
Authorities have issued a regulatory waiver expanding border-security infrastructure across 100-plus miles of the U.S.-Mexico border, including Big Bend. CBP plans a mix of barriers, roads and surveillance technology near Big Bend National Park, while lawmakers and environmental groups raise concerns about land access, ecosystems and public lands.
AP News reports the SpaceX IPO could raise around $75 billion, financing aggressive expansion into spaceflight, lunar bases, and Mars colonization. The prospectus frames SpaceX as pursuing an interplanetary future, with Musk aiming to become the world’s first trillionaire if the plan succeeds. Separately, a wildlife land swap linked to SpaceX perches on the U.S.-Mexico border amid opposition and litigation.
Florida’s Alligator Alcatraz immigration detention center has been officially closed after a year in operation. Detainees have been transferred to other facilities as hurricane season begins. Officials say permanent closure is planned, but cost and legal challenges persist while advocates demand full restoration of the Everglades.
The Supreme Court has ruled 7-2 that federal pesticide law bars state failure-to-warn lawsuits over Roundup, overturning a $1.25m jury verdict and imperilling thousands of similar claims against Bayer. The decision follows the EPAs position that glyphosate is unlikely to cause cancer and clears the way for dismissal of many pending suits.
The Reflecting Pool near the Lincoln Memorial has faced algae blooms, peeling paint and security concerns after a multi‑million renovation. Officials say vandalism claims are under investigation while critics demand transparency. New proposals call for nature‑based algae control as the administration faces questions over maintenance and costs.
The Reflecting Pool renovation has been plagued by an algae bloom and peeling coating after initial completion, with officials citing vandals, while investigations highlight contracting questions and security measures as the 250th anniversary approaches.
The package of kids’ online safety measures has progressed in the House and draws White House attention. Key sticking points include whether to include a duty of care, how to handle age verification, and the balance between preemption of state AI laws and online safeguards. Supporters say safeguards are needed; critics warn of gaps and preemption risks.
Humpback whales have surged from about 2,000 to 35,000 in roughly 40 years, drawing them into Rio’s Guanabara Bay. Tours with biologists onboard have grown, while researchers study migration patterns and the Abrolhos Bank habitat. A scientific expedition runs June 26–July 9 to map behavior and routes.
Senate Republicans have to adjust to the loss of Sen. Graham, altering committee leadership and urgency to fund diplomatic efforts, while a potential temporary successor awaits appointment under South Carolina law.
The Interior Department has finalized rules that require individualized protection plans for species added to the threatened list and mandate economic analyses for critical habitat. Critics warn the move could hamper wildlife recovery, while supporters say it balances conservation with development. Several species, including monarch butterflies and the grizzly bear, are cited in ongoing debates.
The U.S. Bureau of Land Management has announced a September 15 lease sale for 41 parcels totaling 2,840 acres in Wayne National Forest, bringing fracking to the forest for the first time. The sale faces legal challenges and public input during a 30-day protest period, while GOP-backed energy policies advance elsewhere.