On September 15, a federal court found that the Bush Administration violated the legal responsibility of the National Park Service (NPS) when it authorized increased snowmobile use at the expense of air quality, wildlife and overall public enjoyment of nature within Yellowstone National Park. In the last five winters, Yellowstone has seen an average of 263 snowmobiles per day. Research on the impacts of snowmobiles suggests capping or decreasing that number, pointing to the need for protection of wildlife, clean air and natural quiet. Over the past 10 years, more than half a million Americans have submitted comments to NPS concerning Yellowstone’s Winter Use Plan, making it the most publicly commented-on issue in the history of the national parks. A consistent 4-to-1 majority favored access to Yellowstone via modern snowcoach, led by a knowledgeable guide, rather than snowmobile. The Bush Administration instead authorized a doubling of the number of allowed snowmobiles to 540 per day, resulting in increased exhaust pollution, disrupted habitat and more motorized noise pollution. Chuck Clusen led NRDC’s continuing involvement in the case, which was brought to court by Earthjustice. To read the full ruling, visit www.greateryellostone.org.