The consequences of the climate crisis -- more wildfires, devastating drought, sea level rise, flooding, ecological disease -- are plaguing the country's national parks
"It was really striking to see that every single tree seems to be getting hit by either climatic changes; it could be dying from drought, or it could be insect attack or fungus, but they're certainly weakened," Dickman, a forest ecologist with the National Park Service, told CNN."There's a big shift happening right now, and it's right in front of our eyes.
Yosemite's biggest restoration in history 01:36Studies have also showed the range of small mammals in Yosemite has shifted upslope over the last century as the area warmed. Dickman told CNN even 10 years ago he was concerned about different threats, pointing to how the park dealt more with flooding from powerful storms coming off the Pacific Ocean and less with dangerous wildfires.
Be aware that we are experiencing some flooding too. Also, you will want to read about our vehicle reservation system before you arrive.— Glacier National Park June 16, 2022 Melting glaciers are also a significant source of sea level rise. Caitlyn Florentine, a research physical scientist at the US Geological Survey who studies US glaciers, noted the glaciers at Glacier National Park are already quite small.
Climate change could wipe out iconic California landmarks 03:04In September 2021, park biologists wrapped the base of General Sherman -- the planet's largest living tree -- in protective foil as the flames of the KNP Complex fire approached. General Sherman is estimated to be anywhere from 2,200 to 2,700 years old, and has grown to 275 feet.The tree's diameter is more than 36 feet at its base, which is about as wide as six average cars.