Last week we celebrated a special milestone for our friends and fellow rangers in the U.S. National Park Service — 100 years old!
National Park Service Centennial
The U.S. National Park Service was created on August 25, 1916 by the United States Congress. They were charged with preserving the country’s national parks while also maintaining them for the public to enjoy.
Yosemite National Park. Image: Travel Junction
To celebrate a century of stewardship, Americans have been encouraged to head outdoors and visit one of the 412 national parks throughout the country and share their experiences online using the hashtag #FindYourPark.
#FindYourPark
To coincide with the anniversary, DOC has partnered with the U.S. Embassy and Consulate in New Zealand on a number of events to promote our own national parks, build conservation and engage people in nature.
It’s about encouraging more people to get outdoors, have a great time in nature, and benefit from the positive effects that this can have on our health and wellbeing.
The U.S. Ambassador and Nancy Gilbert with DOC Director-General Lou Sanson on the Tongariro Crossing.
These events have included a visit to see Sirocco the kākāpō, new information panels on Kapiti Island, native tree planting on Motutapu Island, walking the Tongariro Crossing and more.
There are still a number of exciting events planned throughout the rest of the year.
New information panels on Kapiti Island
Happy birthday and best wishes for the next 100 years to our friends in the U.S. National Park Service.
It is a wonderful achievement