The Future of America's National Parks, A Report to the President of the United States by the Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne, May 2007. Free Download, PDF format.

WASHINGTON – “Inspired by the passions of thousands of citizens and mindful that boldness matches our history, today I bring you our vision to ensure that the American love affair with national parks endures,” wrote Secretary of the Interior Dirk Kempthorne in a report delivered today to President George Bush.

Kempthorne, and National Park Service Director Mary Bomar, unveiled report details during a rooftop press conference at the Interior Department. In the report, “The Future of America’s National Parks,” Kempthorne wrote, “Parks teach and inspire.  Parks are America the beautiful…the cultural…the historical.”   He explained the 100th anniversary should be a time to celebrate accomplishments achieved through goals with boldness and vision. 

The National Park Service will:
• lead America in preserving and restoring treasured resources;
• demonstrate environmental leadership;
• offer superior recreational experiences;
• foster exceptional learning opportunities that connect people to parks; and
• be managed with excellence.

Performance goals will guide our achievement.  By 2016, the National Park Service plans to:
• improve priority facilities to acceptable condition;
• restore native habitats by controlling invasive species, and reintroducing key plant and animal species;
• improve natural resources in parks as measured by scientific vital signs monitoring;
• reduce environmental impacts of park operations;
• double the amount of volunteer hours;
• enroll two million new Junior Rangers;
• encourage greater partnership and philanthropy; and
• reshape the workforce to meet the needs of America.

(From Centennial Initiative News Release)

Download The Future of America's National Parks, A Report

PDF format, 3MB.

Visit Centennial Initiative Official Website

"To conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations."

The National Park Service Organic Act
August 25, 1916

Visit National Park Service Official Website

Most people know that the National Park Service cares for national parks, a network of nearly 400 natural, cultural and recreational sites across the nation. The treasures in this system – the first of its kind in the world –have been set aside by the American people to preserve, protect, and share, the legacies of this land.

People from all around the world visit national parks to experience America's story, marvel at the natural wonders, and have fun. Places like the Grand Canyon, the Statue of Liberty, and Gettysburg are popular destinations, but so too are the hundreds of lesser known yet equally meaningful gems like Rosie the Riveter in California, Boston Harbor Islands in Massachusetts, and Russell Cave in Alabama.

The American system of national parks was the first of its kind in the world, and provides a living model for other nations wishing to establish and manage their own protected areas. The park service actively consults with these Nations, sharing what we've learned, and gaining knowlege from the experience of others.

Beyond national parks, the National Park Service helps communities across America preserve and enhance important local heritage and close-to-home recreational opportunities. Grants and assistance are offered to register, record and save historic places; create community parks and local recreation facilities; conserve rivers and streams, and develop trails and greenways.

We hope to see you soon in a national park and invite you to explore the ways we can help you preserve what’s important in your hometown.

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