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National Parks, National Legacy

July 2008

July 2008

The people of the United States own and protect a sprawling system of national parks,  including seashores, trails, monuments, and battlefields. All American citizens are, in a sense, stewards of sites where history unfolded, where mountains soar, and where rivers run. They keep these parks for the future, and they treasure them today. As former President Franklin Delano Roosevelt said, “There is nothing so American as our national parks. The scenery and wildlife are native. The fundamental idea behind the parks is native. It is, in brief, that the country belongs to the people.” This edition of eJournalUSA presents glorious views of the national parks, the history of this vast system, and its mission of conservation and public access.

More Coverage

Translations

En esta publicación

Volume 13, Number 7

From the Editors

The National Spirit

Respecting Cultural Heritage

Caretakers for the Future

  • Special Places Uniting All Americans

    The director of the National Park Service explains how the parks are emblematic of the American story and of the settlement and expansion of the nation.

  • When a Park Is Not a Park

    The U.S. National Park Service is the caretaker of almost 400 sites that are remarkably different in size, scope, and histories.

  • A Climate of Change

    National parks launch initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address climate change.

  • Repelling the Invasives

    The National Park Service works to control invasive plant species and preserve native plant habitat.

Park Ranger Insights

  • Bob Spoelhof

    Personal insights from Park Rangers across the United States celebrating the varied work they do.

Photo Galleries

  • National Park
    Jewels in the Crown

    Each of the U.S. national parks is unique – home to natural wonders or historical events which tell part of the story of a wondrous land and its people.

  • UNESCO World Heritage Sites
    U.S. World Heritage Sites

    UNESCO World Heritage Sites include places of irreplaceable natural or cultural value. There are 20 in the United States, out of more than 875 worldwide.

Additional Resources