News Roundup (February 18-25, 2025)

Sagebrush Times News Roundup (February 18-25, 2025)

This roundup summarizes key news topics from the “Sagebrush Times” Flipboard feed over the past week.

Outdoor & Travel

• Escalante, Utah – Andrew Skurka to Host Livestream on the Overland Route: Renowned backpacker Andrew Skurka will host a livestream this week detailing the Overland Route, a backpacking route down the Escalante River watershed in Southern Utah. Skurka’s presentation promises a definitive tour of this low-profile route, offering insights into its unique challenges and rewards. The livestream event aims to provide potential backpackers with essential information for planning their own trips. Learn more about the Overland Route livestream.
• Western US – Avalanche Danger Remains High Due to Weak Snowpack: The National Avalanche Center reports a high avalanche danger across much of the Western US due to unstable snowpack conditions. As of February 25th, 14 people have died in avalanches during the 2024-2025 season, most of whom were skiers and snowboarders. Authorities urge backcountry users to check local avalanche forecasts, carry appropriate safety gear (beacon, shovel, probe), and have avalanche safety training. The unusually weak snowpack is attributed to a combination of early-season snowfall followed by prolonged periods of dry weather. Read more about avalanche safety.
• Joshua Tree, California – Rare Snowfall Creates Stunning Scenery in Joshua Tree National Park: Visitors to Joshua Tree National Park were treated to a rare and beautiful sight on January 27th: snow dusting the iconic desert landscape. The uncharacteristic snowfall transformed the park’s Joshua trees and rock formations into a winter wonderland, attracting photographers and nature enthusiasts. Park officials cautioned visitors to be prepared for icy conditions on trails and roadways. This event highlights the Mojave Desert’s unpredictable weather patterns. See photos of the snow in Joshua Tree.
• Southeast Utah – Discover 15 Beautiful Hikes in Canyonlands National Park: For those seeking adventure in Utah’s National Parks, a new article highlights 15 must-do hikes in Canyonlands National Park. From short, scenic overlooks to challenging backpacking trips, there’s a trail for every skill level. The article emphasizes the park’s unique geological formations and solitude compared to nearby Arches National Park. Recommendations include the Mesa Arch Trail, Grand View Point Trail, and backpacking trip to Druid Arch. Plan your hiking trip to Canyonlands.
• Las Vegas, Nevada & Grand Canyon, Arizona – Plan an Epic Road Trip Between Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon: A recent travel article outlines the best stops for an unforgettable road trip between Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. The suggested route showcases the diverse landscapes of Nevada and Arizona, including Hoover Dam, the historic Route 66, and the stunning viewpoints along the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Tips include timing your visit for sunrise or sunset at the canyon and booking accommodations in advance, especially during peak season. This road trip offers a taste of the American Southwest’s most iconic destinations. Get inspired for your Las Vegas to Grand Canyon road trip.

Politics & Economics

• [Region Varies] – “Greater Idaho” Movement Gains Traction: The “Greater Idaho” movement, which seeks to move the Oregon/Idaho border to include conservative, rural counties into Idaho, is gaining momentum, according to a recent video report. Proponents argue that these counties share more cultural and political values with Idaho than with Oregon. The movement highlights the growing divide between urban and rural areas in the Pacific Northwest. Watch the report on the Greater Idaho movement.
• Fort Worth, Texas – Double Eagle IV Sells Permian Basin Assets for $4 Billion: Fort Worth-based energy company Double Eagle IV Midco LLC has sold a significant portion of its Permian Basin assets to an undisclosed buyer for over $4 billion. The deal reflects the continued high value of oil and gas properties in the Permian Basin, despite recent market volatility. The sale will allow Double Eagle IV to focus on other strategic investments, while the buyer is expected to increase production from the acquired assets. This transaction underscores the Permian Basin’s ongoing importance to the US energy sector. Read more about the Double Eagle IV sale.
• Las Vegas, Nevada – Utah Could Tap Colorado River Water Before it Reaches Nevada: A conservation group claims that Utah’s growing urban development north of Salt Lake City threatens Nevada’s water supply from the Colorado River. The group alleges that Utah is diverting water upstream, potentially impacting Lake Mead’s water levels. This highlights the ongoing tensions over water rights in the drought-stricken Colorado River Basin. Negotiations between the seven Colorado River basin states are underway to address the long-term water shortage. Learn more about the Colorado River water dispute.

Crime & Safety

• Las Vegas, Nevada – Multi-Agency Operation Finds 7 Missing Children: A multi-agency task force operation in Las Vegas, Nevada, successfully located seven missing children in early February. The “Big Search Missing & Exploited Children Task Force Operation” involved local and federal law enforcement agencies. The children were found safe and are now receiving support services. The operation highlights the ongoing efforts to combat child exploitation and trafficking in the region. Read more about the rescue operation.
• Las Vegas, Nevada – Coroner Identifies Man Found in Palm Tree: The Clark County Coroner’s office has identified the man found deceased in a palm tree in the east Las Vegas Valley as [Name]. The circumstances surrounding his death are still under investigation. This unusual incident has garnered attention due to the bizarre nature of the location where the body was discovered. Police are investigating the cause of death, with foul play not immediately suspected. Read the full report on the Palm Tree death.

Mysteries & Oddities