Highlander 2025
Letter from the Editor
There’s something about the wild we can’t ignore. For many of us, the outdoors is more than just a place — it’s a part of who we are. It grounds us, restores us and reminds us of our small but vital role in a vast and beautiful world.
Yet, the landscapes we cherish face mounting challenges. The current political climate has made the future of our national parks, public lands and fragile ecosystems increasingly uncertain. Conservation funding is under scrutiny, climate policies are shifting and the delicate balance of preservation and recreation hangs in question.
It’s a sobering reality but not a hopeless one. Across the country, advocates, scientists and everyday adventurers are stepping up to protect the spaces we love. In this issue, we hope to highlight stories of responsible stewardship, sustainable access and preservation of our wild places for generations to come.
As you read, I hope you’re reminded of the deep connection we share with the outdoors — it’s a bond worth protecting.
— Aubrey Holdaway