Regional Director Marie Rust illustrates point during civic engagement seminar. Photo: Leslie Shahi

Over the last three years, the Northeast Region, with the leadership of Regional Director Marie Rust, initiated a national discussion on how civic engagement can enhance stewardship and strengthen the public’s connection to national parks. Subsequently, in 2003, NPS Director Fran Mainella issued a director’s order articulating the park service’s commitment to civic engagement.

“Civic engagement is a continuous, dynamic conversation with the public on many levels that reinforces public commitment to the preservation of heritage resources, both cultural and natural, and strengthens public understanding of the full meaning and contemporary relevance of these resources.”
— Director’s Order 75A: Civic Engagement and Public Involvement, 2003