natural resources

A 28% decrease in staffing since 2006, coupled with a 13% increase in acquired acreage since 2008, is severely stressing New Jersey's state park system, according to the report released Monday.

The bill would focus on dunes, wetlands, and oyster reefs, a change from prior strategies that emphasized jetties, groins, and beach replenishment, though both approaches can work concurrently.

President Barack Obama is granting national monument status to nearly 1.8 million acres of scenic Southern California desert, a move the White House says will maintain in perpetuity the region's fragile ecosystem and natural resources, as well as provide recreational opportunities for hikers, campers, hunters and others.