This week on The Wild Line, we’re tracking proposals for a baseball park in Grand Teton National Park, the EPA’s repeal of 2024 Carbon Pollution Standards for power plants, the resumption of border barrier construction in Big Bend National Park, and the closing of the comment window for the Forest Service’s Roadless Rule rescission. From federal land use debates to climate policy shifts, these stories highlight ongoing tensions between development and conservation.

🎧 Listen to the full episode for context, analysis, and what to watch next.

We’re thrilled to share that The Wild Idea podcast has been named a Finalist in the 5th Annual Signal Awards, in the Sustainability & Environment category.

Being a Finalist also makes us eligible for the Signal Listener’s Choice Award. Voting is open now through Thursday, October 15.

Grand Teton National Park Baseball Proposal Draws Criticism

Reports confirmed by Major League Baseball and the White House indicate the Trump administration was approached about hosting a game at Grand Teton National Park. NPS Deputy Director Frank Lands toured three potential sites, though a White House official called the scouting claim incorrect and noted no permits were granted. Betsy Buffington of the National Parks Conservation Association and former Interior assistant secretary Rob Wallace criticized the proposal, with Wallace calling it a public relations nightmare. The pitch coincides with reports of a land swap involving Yosemite and private development plans for Cumberland Island National Seashore.

EPA Finalizes Repeal of 2024 Carbon Pollution Standards

The EPA finalized the repeal of most of the Biden-era 2024 Carbon Pollution Standards for power plants, arguing the rules exceeded Clean Air Act authority. The agency also proposed dropping remaining greenhouse gas requirements, claiming these emissions have no material effect on climate change. Former Biden EPA adviser Zealan Hoover described this as a three-step strategy to eliminate federal climate regulations for power and transportation sectors. The EPA estimates the repeal saves $310 billion, while Resources for the Future estimates health damages could reach $476 billion.

Department of Homeland Security Resumes Big Bend Border Wall Construction

The Department of Homeland Security announced the end of its pause on border barrier construction inside Big Bend National Park, allowing work to resume after significant pushback. A lawsuit filed by landowners and the nonprofit Conserve Big Bend challenges DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin and CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott over the plans. Bob Krumenaker, chair of Keep Big Bend Wild and former Big Bend National Park superintendent, provided commentary on the development. The legal action involves 6 landowners and represents an additional 230 landowners.

Forest Service Closes Public Comment Window on Roadless Rule Rescission

The Forest Service is concluding the final public comment window for the proposed rescission of the Roadless Rule, with the Draft Environmental Impact Statement portion closing on October 6, 2026. The rule has stood for over 25 years and withstood numerous court challenges. Josh Hicks, Director of Conservation Campaigns for The Wilderness Society, discussed the importance of public comments and what to expect from the process moving forward. The potential rescission could undo protections that have been in place for decades.

The Wild Idea Podcast Nominated for Signal Awards

Our sister podcast The Wild Idea is a finalist for a Signal Awards for excellence in podcasting in the Sustainability and Environment category. The nomination also puts the podcast in the running for a Signal Listener’s Choice Award. Hosts Bill Hodge and Anders Reynolds emphasized that the recognition supports their mission to discuss conservation and wild places.

The Wild Line is sponsored by The Wilderness Society.

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