Reveal Will the National Parks Survive Trump?
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Aug 30, 2025 
In this engaging discussion, Heath Druzin, an Idaho public radio reporter, and Doug Smith, a wildlife biologist credited with the successful wolf reintroduction in Yellowstone, explore the ecological significance of wolves and their ongoing challenges. They highlight the impact of budget cuts on conservation efforts, revealing emotional stories from park scientists like Nadia Hamdan, who addresses the dire consequences for endangered species. The conversation dives into ideological battles affecting historical narratives within national parks, emphasizing the urgent need for public support.
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Backpacking Into Wolf Country
- Heath Druzin and Doug Smith backpacked deep into Yellowstone to look for wolves, carrying heavy packs and camping far from roads.
- They found wolf scat and signs but no wolves, illustrating the patient, difficult fieldwork behind conservation.
Wolves Drive Trophic Cascades
- Reintroducing wolves has reshaped Yellowstone's ecosystem and triggered trophic cascades that benefit aspens, beavers, and fish.
- But these long-term ecological gains depend on ongoing monitoring and funding to persist.
Fund Long-Term Park Science
- Protecting species for future generations requires scientists doing steady behind-the-scenes monitoring in parks.
- Support funding and staffing for long-term ecological studies to keep populations like bison and wolves viable.