This Land Is Your Land: The National Park Service - A National Treasure

1.  Our Parks, Our Pride, Our Values National park areas are not just parcels of land and water – they are our legacy. They unite us and remind us of what’s worth saving. Defunding not only eliminates the “place,” it eliminates their intrinsic value. 2. The Return On Investment for Local Jobs and Economies National park areas support tourism, jobs, and small businesses—generating billions in revenue each year. Defunding them means fewer visitors, less spending, and more job loss in local communities. 3 To Know the Institutional Knowledge Part I National park areas are part of America’s shared story and identity—a democratic ideal of conserving resources unimpaired for future generations (the Organic Act of 1916). Defunding and eliminating national park areas defeats the law.   4. To Know the Institutional Knowledge Part II Two Congressional Laws (of 1970 and 1978) enhanced the Act of 1916 and defined the “System” of national park areas despite their title. Eliminating hundreds...

The rugged coast of Acadia (Photos by Mark) When people think of a large national park, many envision those in the western U.S. But there is one of the “jewels in the crown” along the wave-pounding Atlantic coastline of Maine – Acadia National Park.  This icon boasts a rugged coast, forests of color, interior wetlands, mountaintop views, and historic carriageways. So much natural and cultural value that this park draws 3.5 million visits a year . Like other national park areas, Acadia is not just land – it is legacy. National park areas unite us and remind us of what’s worth saving. I n the early 1900s, billionaire philanthropist John D. Rockefeller and his family purchased - then donated – 11,000 acres along with 51 miles of carriage roads he financed and constructed, to be incorporated for this new park for America. Rockefeller wasn’t looking at Acadia Island for land values, profit margins or self-financial gains; for this cause, he was just a believer in the value of conservati...

Things You Can Do Immediately  Protecting our National Parks doesn’t require a backpack, a campsite, or a government job. Whether you live near one or not, here are five simple, impactful things you can do  right now  to help ensure these natural treasures last for generations to come. 1. “Find Your Park” and Share Why it Matters to You Use your voice on social media, in conversations, or in local forums to tell your personal National Park Area story. When people hear real experiences, they care more. Your photos, memories, and words might inspire someone to care—and act.    2. Contact Your Elected Officials Call, email, or tweet your local and national representatives. Let them know that you’re concerned and ask them to support increased park funding and strong environmental protections. Politicians pay attention when constituents speak up—especially in numbers   3. Donate to Park Protection Organizations Groups like the National Parks Conservation As...