The News from Glacier Bay

Overall Health of Glacier Bay's Natural Resources is Good

A new report says Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve's natural resources are in tip-top shape, but its cultural resources could use more attention.

"We took a snapshot of Glacier Bay, and it's doing well," said Jim Stratton, Alaska spokesman for the National Parks Conservation Association, which released the report Wednesday. "There's a lot of parks in America that would kill for these kind of scores."

Report: Glacier Bay a healthy park

A new report says Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve's natural resources are in tip-top shape, but its cultural resources could use more attention.

"We took a snapshot of Glacier Bay, and it's doing well," said Jim Stratton, Alaska spokesman for the National Parks Conservation Association, which released the report Wednesday. "There's a lot of parks in America that would kill for these kind of scores."

Alaska's National Parks Combat Invasive Plants

Alaska's national parks are not immune to invasive plants. With more than 54 million acres of Alaska managed by the National Park Service, entire landscapes and the fish, wildlife, and recreational activities they support are at risk. To combat the onslaught of exotic plant invasions, the NPS has Exotic Plant Management Teams, and the Alaska EPMT is wrapping up its sixth season.

Breaking the ice at Glacier Bay

GLACIER BAY, Alaska — Some cite global warming as the culprit. Others point to a natural cycle in world climatory conditions.

This much is certain: Glacier Bay National Park is changing. I've seen it myself. During six visits over the past quarter century, I've witnessed the gradual erosion of some of the world's most magnificent rivers of ice.

The lesson for travelers: Go now if your time and budget permits.