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Flagstaff, Ariz,. became the first ever DarkSky Community in 2001. Central Idaho is home to the only DarkSky Reserve in the U.S. and Utah has the highest concentration of DarkSky places globally. More towns in Colorado want to join the ranks.

A new study finds that human emissions are the main culprit behind the decades-long drought that ebbs and flows across the Western U.S. Scientists warn the drier pattern could become the new normal, with major implications for water supplies.

The Colorado Department of Corrections said the evacuation of the Rifle Correctional Center was made out an "abundance of caution" to keep incarcerated individuals safe from the Lee Fire.

A new study led by the University of Michigan shows that large livestock farms are polluting the air across the U.S., including parts of the Mountain West. Researchers say these impacts are felt hardest by nearby communities, where people of color often live.

The Radiation Exposure Compensation Act was expanded in July so more people can seek help. But some are sounding the alarm over scammers trying to charge big fees.

Drought conditions are expected to continue. Las Vegas has many conservation efforts including using water patrols.

Hotel and rental bookings are up slightly compared to last summer according to data from 17 western destinations, including Vail, Colo., Sun Valley, Idaho, and Jackson Hole, Wyo.

The EPA is trying to rescind the "endangerment finding," which Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico officials say helps protect humans and the environment from unhealthy emissions.

Trevor Neilson is a supporter of Project Winchester, an anonymous group he said exists to keep U.S. Rep. Harriet Hageman (R-WY) from selling or giving away federal public land if she's elected governor. Hageman hasn't announced a run.

They say extreme heat and other climate impacts should be considered in monetary policy-making.