Natural and cultural sounds awaken the sense of awe that connects us to the splendor of national parks and have a powerful effect on our emotions, attitudes and memories. The National Park Service regards these sounds as part of a web of natural and cultural resources that must be protected. From growing demands for park overflights to expanding energy development, noise sources are proliferating. But so are efforts to understand their effects and avert negative impacts.
A Symphony of Trees, Grasses, Birds and Streams
Air Tour Operators On Board at Biscayne
New air tour operator agreements will help protect park resources at Biscayne National Park.
Hearing the Difference
Sound monitoring in Alaska’s national parks captures natural and human-caused sounds and helps parks identify and manage noise impacts.
Built from Scratch: Tech Tools for Parks
The Natural Sounds and Night Skies Division technical laboratory originates innovative instrumentation for use in national park units.