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High Country News

High Country News

A nonprofit independent magazine of unblinking journalism that shines a light on all of the complexities of the West.

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Christine Peterson

Christine Peterson lives in Laramie, Wyoming, and has covered science, the environment and outdoor recreation in Wyoming for more than a decade. Her work has appeared in National Geographic, Outdoor Life and the Casper Star-Tribune, among others.

Posted inArticles

Wolverines may return to Colorado

by Christine Peterson August 9, 2024August 12, 2024

But can they survive in the warming southern Rockies?

Posted inArticles

When grasshoppers attack

by Christine Peterson July 10, 2024August 8, 2024

Is the cure for grasshopper outbreaks worse than the disease?

Posted inArticles

When a landslide blocks your commute

by Christine Peterson June 24, 2024August 8, 2024

The Teton Pass collapse highlights the importance — and growing vulnerability — of mountain roads.

Roughly 5 miles separate the wildlife overpass just north of Daniel Junction, pictured, from the Trappers Point overpass outside Pinedale, Wyoming. Overpasses like these, along with underpasses and wildlife fences, have helped reduce wildife-vehicle collisions in the state by 80% to 90%, according to the Wyoming Game and Fish Department.
Posted inApril 2024: Epic Journeys

For these mammals, migration is a means of survival

by Christine Peterson April 1, 2024May 8, 2024

Will Westerners repair a fractured landscape for mule deer, pronghorn, and elk?

Molter scans a Wyoming toad for the microchip that indicates he was raised in captivity. After noting the toad’s location and the number of his microchip, she will release him back into his Laramie Basin habitat and continue her survey.
Posted inArticles

New refuge provides hope for critically endangered toad

by Christine Peterson October 20, 2023May 8, 2024

One of the most endangered amphibians in North America faces threats but also possibilities.

People with off-highway vehicles recreate at Anthony Sand Dunes, Idaho.
Posted inArticles

BLM has a plan to tackle booming recreation — at least in theory

by Christine Peterson September 8, 2023January 24, 2024

The agency is taking a hard look at how to protect land and wildlife while welcoming ever more visitors.

Posted inArticles

People are shooting birds off power lines in the West

by Christine Peterson August 4, 2023January 24, 2024

Gunshots outnumber electrocution as a cause of death, according to a new study.

Hikers on Big Sandy Lake Trail in Bridger Teton National Forest, Wyoming.
Posted inArticles

When the woods get noisy, the animals get nervous

by Christine Peterson July 4, 2023January 24, 2024

New study uses trail cameras and speakers to isolate what human sounds do to animals.

Posted inApril 1, 2023: The Path Forward

A deadly disease stalks deer and elk. Do predators help or hurt?

by Christine Peterson April 1, 2023January 24, 2024

In the Rockies, chronic wasting disease can devastate herds; scientists are looking for solutions.

Posted inArticles

The recipe for restoring damaged lands is missing one key ingredient: seeds

by Christine Peterson February 17, 2023January 24, 2024

A new report highlights recovery solutions to fires, droughts and other climate catastrophes.

Posted inNovember 1, 2022: The Futures of Conservation

To protect eagles, hunters and conservationists rebuild old alliances

by Christine Peterson October 25, 2022January 24, 2024

Evidence of the toxic effects of lead ammunition on wildlife spurs a search for common ground.

Posted inArticles

Wildfires may have unexpected climate impacts

by Christine Peterson February 26, 2021January 24, 2024

Wyoming researchers find current models may underestimate how smoke blocks sunlight and cools the planet.

Posted inMarch 16, 2020: Wiring the Wild

When the love of skiing endangers wildlife

by Christine Peterson March 16, 2020January 24, 2024

A world-renowned athlete stopped skiing in sensitive areas. Can she convince others to do the same?

Posted inOctober 28, 2019: Where Hunting Still Has Meaning

Faced with chronic wasting disease, what’s a hunting family to do?

by Christine Peterson October 28, 2019January 24, 2024

Hunters are critical for game management, but the spread of CWD means some may put down the rifle.

Posted inArticles

Hiking trails are a path to destruction for Colorado elk

by Christine Peterson August 27, 2019January 24, 2024

Recreationalists in Vail are having a devastating impact on the local herd.

Posted inFebruary 4, 2019: Nizhoni Girls

Why Wyoming’s public lands are locked up

by Christine Peterson January 30, 2019January 24, 2024

The Cowboy State has more inaccessible public lands than anywhere in the West.

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