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Geography Awareness Week 2016

In the forward to The National Parks: Index 1916-2016, director, Jonathan B. Jarvis writes…

2016 marks the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service—a defining moment to reflect on and celebrate our accomplishments as we embark on a new century of stewardship and public engagement.

America has changed dramatically since the birth of the National Park Service in 1916. The agency’s roots lie in the parks’ majestic, often isolated natural wonders and in places that exemplify our cultural heritage, but our reach now extends to places difficult to imagine 100 years ago — urban centers, rural landscapes, deep oceans, and night skies.

In our second century, we recommit to our core mission, providing exemplary stewardship and public enjoyment of the very special places in our care. We will also continue to support communities through community assistance programs and to create jobs, strengthen local economies, and support ecosystem services. We will use the collective power of the parks, our historic preservation programs, and community assistance programs to protect, preserve, and share the places that tell the American story in the next century.

Of course, all of this cannot be done without the efforts of our dedicated employees, volunteers, and partners. I express my sincere thanks to each and every one of them for their support and passion for the NPS mission entrusted to us by the American people. 

DID YOU KNOW?

Did you know that Geographic Awareness Week was launched in 1987 by Presidential Proclamation?  It’s an annual opportunity for families and schools to engage in fun, educational experiences that explore the understanding of people, places, and the environment.

Did you know that geography is the study of places and the relationships between people and their environments?  The theme for Geography Awareness Week 2016 is “The Power of Parks”.  Get out and explore any Park Service Park or Site nearest you!

Did you know that the National Park Service Act was signed into legislation on August 25, 1916?

The Kansas Geographical Alliance and High Plains Public Radio collaborate annually to bring you Geography Awareness Week.

Did you know there are:

  • 10 National Parks in Kansas
  • 5 National Parks in Oklahoma
  • 13 National Parks in Texas, and
  • 14 National Parks in Colorado

Explore a National Park nearest you!