NPS/Liang
Chip Jenkins, Superintendent
SUPERINTENDENT'S MESSAGE
Welcome! On September 27, 2009, filmmakers Ken Burns and Dayton Duncan will release their newest documentary on PBS, “The National Parks: America’s Best Idea.” Six years in the making, the six-episode, twelve-hour series movingly tells the story of the creation of a national park system that now includes 391 units representing much of our nation’s shared natural and cultural heritage. (Find out more at www.pbs.org/nationalparks.)
Also this fall the National Parks Second Century Commission, comprised of 30 distinguished Americans and co-chaired by former senators Howard H. Baker Jr. and J. Bennett Johnson, will “articulate a bold vision of a future where national parks continue to enrich and ennoble this nation and its citizens.” (Find out more at www.visionfortheparks.org.)
These two remarkable events – the Burn’s documentary with its view to the past, and the Second Century Commission’s vision for the future – are expected to focus unprecedented attention on our national park system. All who are passionate about parks, and their role in our society and democracy, should welcome this attention. Many will be moved to ask, “What can I do to help? How can I become involved with our national parks?” Here are some ideas... continue reading.