Earth Day ~ NASA Every year, on April 22nd, people worldwide celebrate Earth Day. It's dedicated to honoring our planet and raising awareness about our environmental challenges. From its humble beginnings in the 1970s to its global recognition today, Earth Day reminds us of the importance of protecting our planet for future generations. History of Earth Day: The inception of Earth Day can be traced back to 1970 when a U.S. senator named Gaylord Nelson witnessed the devastating effects of a massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. Motivated by this environmental catastrophe, Nel ..read more

As an avid parkgoer, I've explored over 180 of the National Park System's 429 sites. Each park has unique beauty and significance, offering visitors a chance to connect with nature, history, and culture. My most recent adventure led me to the hallowed grounds of Minuteman National Historic Park in Massachusetts, where I stood in awe at the site that marked the beginning of the Revolutionary War. Now, as we approach National Park Week, a special time dedicated to celebrating these incredible places, I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience them ..read more

Golden West Visitor Center Stehekin~NPS In the heart of the North Cascades, nestled within the breathtaking beauty of nature, lies Stehekin – a jewel cherished by locals and visitors alike. However, recent developments have cast a shadow over this pristine wilderness, revealing a tale of neglect and disregard that should outrage us all. The National Park Service's decision to pull all rangers from Stehekin due to insufficient funding is not just a blow to one isolated community; it's a symptom of a larger problem – Congress' failure to prioritize and adequately fund our national parks ..read more

Redwoods NP ~ NPS In a historic move, the Yurok Tribe has become the first Native American community to manage tribal land in partnership with the National Park Service (NPS). Under a groundbreaking memorandum of understanding signed last Tuesday, the tribe, Redwood National and State Parks, and the nonprofit Save the Redwoods League solidified a significant land transfer exceeding 100 acres. This initiative marks a pivotal step towards rectifying past injustices and allowing the Yurok people to share their rich culture with visitors to Redwood National Park. The Yurok Tribe's journey ..read more

NPS Photo In an ever-evolving world where digital transactions dominate the landscape, the National Park Service (NPS) recently made headlines with its decision to transition many national park sites to cashless operations. This move marks a significant shift in how visitors interact with these cherished natural spaces, raising praise and concern among park enthusiasts and stakeholders. The Positives of Going Cashless 1. Convenience and Efficiency Embracing cashless transactions streamlines the visitor experience by eliminating the need for physical currency. Visitors can now enjoy s ..read more

Rachel Carson ~ USFWS  As Women’s History Month unfolds, we must honor the remarkable women who have shaped our world. Among them stands Rachel Carson, a pioneer whose tireless efforts revolutionized our understanding of environmental conservation. Rachel Carson was born in 1907 in Pennsylvania, USA. From a young age, she displayed a deep affinity for the natural world, spending hours exploring the woods and fields near her home. Her passion for biology led her to study marine biology at Johns Hopkins University, where she earned a master's degree in zoology. Carson's journey to ..read more

The Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences will hold the Academy Awards this Sunday. As the curtain rises on the 96th Oscars awards show, it's time for similar recognition for America's national parks. From breathtaking scenery to remarkable wildlife encounters, each park offers its own cinematic experience. Join us as we roll out the red carpet and present the winners in various categories for the ultimate recognition of excellence in outdoor splendor. Best Trail: Zion National Park, Utah The winner of the Best Trail award goes to Zion National Park for its iconic Angel's Landing hike ..read more

DOI Logo On March 3, 2024, the Department of the Interior marks a momentous occasion as it celebrates its 175th birthday. This milestone not only commemorates a long and storied history but also highlights the crucial role the department has played in shaping the conservation and management of America's natural landscapes. As we reflect on its legacy, it becomes increasingly evident that the Department of the Interior's mission is more vital than ever. Established in 1849, the Department of the Interior oversees the nation's internal affairs, including managing public lands, forests ..read more

Mount Rushmore ~ NPS As President's Day approaches on February 19th, it's the perfect time to reflect on the remarkable legacies of past U.S. presidents and their enduring impact on the nation. What better way to celebrate this holiday than by exploring the national parks and monuments that honor their contributions? Here are the top ten destinations that offer a captivating journey through presidential history: Mount Rushmore National Memorial (South Dakota): Mount Rushmore features the monumental faces of Presidents George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraha ..read more

Grand Prismatic ~ NPS In recent years, there has been a troubling trend emerging in our beloved national parks – a sense of entitlement that leads visitors to damage and destroy precious resources and wildlife. From diverting rivers to defacing natural wonders, the examples are shocking and disheartening. As stewards of these lands, we must address this issue head-on. One such incident occurred at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan, where a man diverted the Platte River for his own purposes. This reckless act not only disrupted the river's natural flow but cr ..read more