Gibbon Canyon Night Closures End Wednesday
Work is nearing completion on the section of road between Norris and Madison through Gibbon Canyon in Yellowstone National Park. Earlier this month, traffic began traveling over the new road alignment and the new 253 foot bridge over the Gibbon River.
Overnight closures end as of 8:00 a.m. Wednesday, September 1. However, visitors can expect up to 30 minute construction delays through October 23, including over the Labor Day holiday weekend. Paving of the new road and the nearby Beryl Springs Bridge is expected to be completed by the end of September. The redesigned Gibbon Falls Overlook and parking area, two new picnic areas and the long closed Gibbon Falls picnic area are all set to open to visitors October 23, weather permitting. All interior park roads close for the season Monday morning, November 8.
Yellowstone Set For Final Big Weekend Of Summer
Good weather is forecast for Yellowstone National Park for the start of the Labor Day holiday weekend. This typically results in a pulse of weekend visitors, as many people from the area surrounding the park use the occasion to mark the unofficial end of summer.
All campgrounds, lodging, stores, shops, service stations, restaurants, and other services and activities in the park remain open for the start of the Labor Day weekend. Campgrounds and lodging in and around the park can fill very early in the day. Advance reservations are highly recommended. Visitor should plan to arrive early at campgrounds that do not take reservations. The current status of available camping and lodging in the park is available by calling (307) 344-2114.
MT Back-to-School Plastic Product Safety Check
Deb Courson
Backpacks, lunchboxes and binders. What seem like helpful and durable, plastic back-to-school supplies for Montana kids may need a second look for safety. According to Michael Schade, the PVC Campaign coordinator for the Center for Health, Environment and Justice, many of these plastic products are made with PVC or vinyl. He warns they contain additives such as lead, which are especially harmful to young children.
“This is the most toxic plastic for our health and environment. Chemicals released by the vinyl life-cycle have been linked to chronic diseases on the rise in children - diseases like learning disabilities, obesity, asthma and diabetes.”
Schade says the good news is there are safer options available. His advice? Look at the recycling symbol. If it has the number “3” or the letters “V” or “PVC,” he says it’s best to move on.