January 23, 2008--Effects of drought on Yellowstone lasting, widespread (Denver Post)
An eight-year drought has left scores of ponds and wetlands dry and thirsty in Yellowstone. It also stands to force shifts in wildlife, the frequency of wildfires, the timing of mountain snowmelt and the growth of nutritious vegetation. Parched streams and high temperatures last summer killed hundreds of fish and prompted park officials to temporarily close some waters to fishing. Pothole wetlands in some areas have vanished, stealing prime habitat for the park's struggling trumpeter swans. There's less vegetation in the Gardiner basin for wildlife to munch on. Drought-weakened conifers have fallen victim to increasing numbers of tree-killing bark beetles. Drought also opens the door for nonnative species to gain a foothold.
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