How Can You Support America's National Parks? Here are 6 Easy Ways!
Robert DeckerAmerica’s National Parks are facing significant threats—from funding cuts to protection rollbacks, putting the landscapes, wildlife and the dedicated workers who protect them at risk. Despite the ongoing need for restoration and conservation, vital programs are being reduced or eliminated, leaving our parks vulnerable.
Now, more than ever, we must step up to preserve America’s Best Idea and ensure these treasured places remain protected for future generations. The good news? You can make a difference. Here are six simple ways to support our parks and the people who safeguard them.
Donate: Simply donating to the National Park Foundation will contribute to the 400+ national parks in the country. We have 84 million acres of land to protect!
Purchase an America the Beautiful Pass: Honestly, this one’s a no brainer! At a cost of just $80 ($20 for Senior Pass), there’s no better value on the planet than these annual passes. Get all the details at the National Park Service site and start visiting America's National Parks!
Contribute to the Conservation and Preservation Charities of America: This foundation trains people to protect the environment, conserve natural resources, and preserve historic places. It works to protect the nation's hiking trails, fisheries, rivers, coastal areas and oceans.
Become a Member: You can become a member of one of the many national, regional or local organizations, associations and conservancies that support our national parks. If you're already a member, renew for next year!
Make Your Voice Heard: One of the most powerful ways to protect our National Parks is by reaching out to your representatives. Let them know that funding cuts and rollbacks put our parks—and the people who protect them—at risk. Urge them to support legislation that preserves these landscapes for future generations. Your voice matters. Find your representatives and speak up today!
Share your Park Experience with Others: The only way to spread the word about the beauty and importance of national parks is to show other people just how wonderful these places are. Share your stories and pictures with friends, neighbors, family and social media to encourage others to get out and explore the parks!
I’m trying to make a difference by giving back to the amazing organizations, associations, trusts and conservancies that support the National Parks. I feel that it’s important to protect America’s special places, and to connect people with nature. And it’s up to all of us to pitch in. Perhaps more importantly, we need to inspire the next generation of park supporters. Click here to Learn about how I'm Giving Back to our parks.
So you can see how easy it is to support America's national parks! Now it's time to start planning your next National Park adventure!