Rich Stallcup, one of the great ornithologists of his generation, died in December from leukemia at the age of 67. He had a certain aversion for publicity, and his life somehow mimicked the existence of the birds he so loved: intensely pursued, with a graceful passing.

This tale might appear to be a poster story for economy versus environment and business versus bureaucrats. Why terminate a permit for a business that generated jobs -- and food?

Last week, Interior Secretary Ken Salazar found an intelligent solution to a controversial debate in northern California by balancing conservation with preservation of the local ranching heritage.

"America's best idea" still isn't complete. If we don't grow the system, we risk loving to death the parks that we have.