President Trump's childhood home sells for $2 million

The Trump administration has blocked over 130 projects at U.S. national parks, holding at least $25 million in funding, according to The Washington Post. The Interior Department rejected partnership agreements for work at various parks, including Yellowstone, Yosemite, Zion, Joshua Tree, and Denali National Park and Preserve. The blocked projects encompass wildfire work, habitat protection, historic preservation, and sled dog care.

The money was already secured through congressional appropriations and federal programs, but required Interior's approval to be released. Interior spokesperson Aubrie Spady stated that the groups involved were "actively working against the best interests of the American people and the priorities of this administration." She claimed the decision would ensure the funds are used in line with the administration's objectives, which include making life more affordable, expanding energy production, and increasing access to public lands.

Joshua Tree National Park in California saw the most rejections, with at least 10 agreements blocked, covering wildfire preparation, restoration of fire-damaged areas, and rodent removal. The internal documents warned that failing to complete these projects could make fighting wildfires more challenging and expensive. Other rejected work included preserving Native American mounds in Iowa and protecting an endangered snake species in California.

Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska was also affected, with a sled dog care agreement blocked. The Great Basin Institute, a conservation nonprofit, saw 70 of its agreements, worth $12 million, rejected, though they were unaware of the decision. This decision follows President Trump's July orders that reduced the size of the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante national monuments in Utah.