The National Park Service turns 96 years old today. Their official website invites everyone to visit any of the 397 national parks to help celebrate “the big day” with many locations offering special events.
The National Park Service was signed into existance on August 25, 1916 by President Woodrow Wilson after a successful publicity campaign headed by Stephen Mather.
“Established in 1916, the National Park Service was created to care for all of the national parks throughout the country. Each park represents an important part of our collective identity. Some parks commemorate notable people and achievements, others conserve magnificent landscapes and natural wonders, and all provide a place to have fun and learn.
The extraordinary mission of the National Park Service extends even further than the parks, however. The work of NPS reaches into communities across the country where they work with partners to help preserve local history and create close-to-home recreational opportunities that revitalize neighborhoods and enhance the quality of life.”
We have several National Parks in Florida, including the Big Cypress National Preserve, Biscayne National Park, and the Everglades National Park.
EDIT: Unfortunately, celebrations planned for the South Florida National Parks have been cancelled due to approaching Tropical Storm Isaac.
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