Come the end of the year, the National Parks Traveler will be releasing its 3rd Annual Threatened and Endangered Parks package of stories that examine parts of the National Park System where the original motivations for protecting some units are in danger.
As park travelers, you have seen upclose the landscapes and facilities of the National Park System throughout the year. So tell us, are any either struggling to retain the qualities that led to their inclusion in the National Park System in the first place, or whose qualities are threatened?
To get an idea of what we're looking at, take a look at the last two packages:
Traveler Special Report: Threatened And Endangered Parks
Myriad Threats Assault The Essence Of America’s Best Idea
National Parks Traveler's 2nd Annual Threatened and Endangered Parks
Light Pollution, Climate Change, And Energy Development Threaten The Parks
Our aim is not to examine every single unit of the park system, but to spotlight threats that in some cases might be found at many parks and that are jeopardizing the integrity of the park system. Your help would be invaluable in preparing this year-end package of stories.
Comments
It cannot be understated the threat that the climate crisis is posing for the giant sequoias of California. These ancient trees are facing extinction due to destructive wildfires and persistent drought.
Coastal Parks in General will be in crisis within the next 20 years due to sea level rise. This effects natural resources, recreation, and cultural landmarks. The whole system of forts on the east coast is in danger of being undermined. Islands are moving rapidly-some may not survive the next 50 years. Hard decsions need to be made very soon. Some parks are ahead of this-but funding is very tough. If we wait very much longer solutions will be non-existant or incredibly expensive. This even effects places like th Mall in DC.