If recent court rulings left you feeling confused about the status of winter use in Yellowstone National Park this year, you were not alone; however, last month, a U.S. District Court in Wyoming eliminated the uncertainty and provided visitors, area businesses, and park employees a plan they can count on for this winter.

A September ruling by a U.S. District Judge in Washington, D.C. had rejected the park's proposed winter use plan, which allowed for 540 snowmobiles and 83 snowcoaches each day, and ordered the National Park Service (NPS) to redo the plan. In response, NPS came up with a temporary plan that would have allowed up to 318 snowmobiles and 78 snowcoaches per day to enter Yellowstone for the next 3 winters.

On November 7, 2008, the U.S. District Judge in Wyoming ordered NPS to reinstate a 2004 rule that allows for up to 720 commercially guided, Best Available Technology (BAT) snowmobiles and up to 78 snowcoaches a day to enter Yellowstone. This ruling increased the number of snowmobiles allowed to a level that exceeds both the park's temporary plan and the plan ruled on in September by the federal judge in Washington, D.C. The park will operate under the reinstated 2004 rule for this winter season only, while NPS analyzes public comment received on the temporary plan in order to guide long-term planning for winter use in the parks.

While the park still does not have a permanent plan, the good news is that Yellowstone will open for winter use on time. The road from Mammoth Hot Springs to the Northeast Entrance remains open year- round for wheeled vehicles. On December 15, most interior roads open to over-snow vehicles. Cross- country skiing and snowshoeing provide wonderful opportunities for visitors to view Yellowstone's spectacular landscapes, steaming geothermal features, and abundant wildlife.

This month the Institute is mailing out the summer 2009 catalog. There will be a wide range of new classes, taught by top experts, covering everything from wolf watching to Yellowstone geology. If you ever wondered what it is like to view Yellowstone through the eyes of a predator, or just want to improve your birding skills, this could be your chance. You will receive a catalog if you have taken a course within the past four years. Otherwise, call 307-344-2294 for a free copy or click the link below. Summer field seminar registration begins January 5, 2009 for members, January 12 for non-members.

Start your year off in the heart of Yellowstone with the 2009 Yellowstone calendar. Get up close and personal with America's first national park as each month guides you through the natural and cultural history of Yellowstone. Stunning photography and depictive captions let you to enjoy this wonderland from the comfort of your very own home. A great gift for all ages. Price $12.95 Buy 1, Get 1 Free. No further discounts apply.

When you give the gift of Association Membership, you offer the opportunity to be a part of preserving one of Earth's magnificent places.

Your gift recipient will receive the following benefits:

• Family membership
• 15% discount on Yellowstone Association items
• Subscription to Yellowstone Discovery
• Plus much more!