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National Park Service Celebrates 98th Birthday! FRUITA, CO - Colorado National Monument will celebrate the 98th birthday of the National Park Service by waiving its normal entrance fee on Monday, August 25. "Birthdays are a time to celebrate and we want everyone to join the party," said Colorado National Monument Superintendent Lisa Eckert. "National parks belong to all Americans and offer something for everyone. So come visit Colorado National Monument and tour Rim Rock Drive, take in the scenery from one of the many viewpoints, walk a trail, or enjoy the night sky." In 1872, Yellowstone National Park was established as the world's first national park. There were 37 national park areas in the United States (including Colorado National Monument) when President Woodrow Wilson signed legislation to create the National Park Service on August 25, 1916. Today, there are 401 national parks throughout the country and each one tells an important part of the American story. Some commemorate people and achievements, others conserve magnificent landscapes and natural wonders, and all provide a place to have fun and learn. Plan your visit at www.nps.gov. Colorado National Monument was established in 1911 to preserve "...the extraordinary examples of erosion..." A subsequent Proclamation in 1933 expanded the purpose to include: "...features of historical and scientific interest and for the protection of the Rim Road..." Last year, more than 409,000 visitors enjoyed the monument and added $24,493,000 to the local economy and supported 325 area jobs. The mission of the National Park Service also extends beyond park boundaries. Community partnerships help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities. To see what is happening in Colorado, go to www.nps.gov/CO. |
Last updated: February 24, 2015