America’s national parks have been called the country’s best idea, and some of the best scientific ideas are happening inside these protected spaces. There are geysers and grizzlies in Yellowstone, Gila monsters and saguaro cacti in southern Arizona, and the world’s only known population of red-cheeked salamanders in the Great Smoky Mountains. And in some parks you can roll up your sleeves and actively participate as a citizen scientist. There is much to see, do and learn, right here in America’s own backyard! AGES: 10 to 12 AUTHOR: Mary Kay Carson and Tom Uhlman are married and live with their dog Ruby in a century-old house surrounded by deer, hawks, woodchucks, songbirds, and other creatures in Cincinnati, Ohio.