A decommissioned road in Muir Woods National Monument

Credit: Anne Merwin

There has been a lot of talk lately about the nation’s crumbling manmade infrastructure, such as failing bridges, aging highways and faltering transmission lines. But what about our failing natural infrastructure -- our polluted air and waterways, diminishing biodiversity, and unhealthy forests that are the result of unfettered development and short-sighted planning? Read more

If you’re ever in Seattle, the spectacular Alpine Lakes Wilderness is an absolute must-see getaway for jaw-dropping scenery. The area, accessible with just 45 minute drive from the city, is one of the country’s most visited wilderness areas, providing incredible wild mountain vistas, impossibly craggy peaks and lush old-growth forests – not to mention over 700 mountain lakes and tarns, living up to its namesake. Region:  Pacific Northwest Read more

Vermillion Basin in northwest Colorado. Photo by Sam Cox.

‘Tis the season for giving thanks, spreading cheer, and reflecting on the past year. In that spirit, one of our favorite traditions in The Wilderness Society’s BLM Action Center is compiling a year-end list of the greatest achievements in conservation for lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management. The result is our CAPE Awards – with winners earning between 1 and 5 CAPEs (5 being on the high end of the scale), and a couple “honorable mentions” for those that just missed the cut. Read more