The Conservation and Outdoor Recreation Division (COR) provides the National Park Service and local communities across the country with cost effective, partnership-based support in achieving America’s conservation and outdoor recreation goals.

The Congressionally authorized programs that the Conservation and Outdoor Recreation Division oversees provide local and regional communities with technical assistance in conserving lands and waters and developing close to home outdoor recreation opportunities. The COR programs also assist managers and their partners of National Parks, National Scenic and Historic Trails, and Wild and Scenic Rivers with resource management, stewardship, public access and outdoor recreation challenges.

Collectively, these NPS programs positively touch the lives of tens of millions of Americans each day, engage tens of thousands of youth and volunteers each year and offer impressive array of technical and limited financial assistance that has improved the quality of life of thousands of urban and rural communities.

Conservation and Outdoor Recreation Division embody public/private partnership models for 21st Century conservation that demonstrates a relevant, expanded, nimble and effective role for the NPS to contribute and extend the agency's benefits within and beyond park boundaries. Our staff offers opportunities to direct and align Federal support for local and regional goals while simultaneously improving park coordination and collaboration with communities.

Explore More:

Serene river setting.
Wild and Scenic Rivers

The NPS Wild and Scenic Rivers (WSR) Program provides support to managers of WSRs administered by NPS.

People walking along a trail at Trapp Family Lodge, VT
National Trails System Program

The National Trails System is the network of scenic, historic, and recreation trails created by the National Trails System Act of 1968.

Many people in a canoe on river with paddles in the air.
Challenge Cost Share Program

The Challenge Cost Share Program supports specific NPS mission related projects that align with goals of local project partners.

John Monroe Presents Naugatuck River Greenway Poster To Waterbury Mayor O’Leary
Rivers, Trails & Conservation Assistance

Have an idea for a trail, river, or park in your community? The National Park Service can help!

Falls Village Hydro Dam in Connecticut.
Hydropower Assistance Program

The National Park Service provides technical assistance on Hydropower Licensing Proceedings of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

Last updated: February 16, 2018