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.
The U.S. national parks are more than landmarks and geologic wonders. They represent a piece of the American soul.
Two documentary filmmakers are finishing a television series showcasing U.S. national parks and the stories they tell about the land, the people, and democracy.
The National Park Service struggles to protect the spectacular scenery of its sites while preserving the most humble life forms that share the parks with human visitors.
The creation of a national park system and its efforts to protect Costa Rican biodiversity changed Costa Rica’s perception of its natural resources.
A summary of notable events affecting national parks over more than 130 years.
The National Park Service preserves prehistoric sites, and shares its skill with preservationists from other countries.
U.S. national parks borrowed a Swiss practice to enhance visitors’ experiences in the parks.
The World Heritage Convention protects more than 875 sites worldwide.
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.
The U.S. National Park Service is the caretaker of almost 400 sites that are remarkably different in size, scope, and histories.
National parks launch initiatives to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address climate change.
The National Park Service works to control invasive plant species and preserve native plant habitat.
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 include places of irreplaceable natural or cultural value. There are 20 in the United States, out of more than 875 worldwide.
Books, articles, and Web sites
A slideshow by the National Park Service at nps.gov.
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