National Park Service

National Park Service (NPS) is an agency of the United States federal government that manages all national parks, many national monuments, and other conservation and historical properties with various title designations. It was created on August 25, 1916, by Congress through the National Park Service Organic Act and is an agency of the United States Department of the Interior. The NPS is charged with a dual role of preserving the ecological and historical integrity of the places entrusted to its management while also making them available and accessible for public use and enjoyment.

History

The National Park Service was created by an act signed by President Woodrow Wilson on August 25, 1916. The National Park Service Organic Act stated that the purpose of the new organization would be "to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wildlife therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations."

Organization

The National Park Service has been divided into regions since its inception. Today, there are seven regions, each headed by a regional director. The regions are further divided into parks, each headed by a park superintendent. The parks are then divided into districts, each headed by a district ranger.

Responsibilities

The National Park Service is responsible for the care and management of all national parks and many national monuments in the United States. This includes preserving the natural and cultural resources, providing visitor services, and conducting educational programs. The NPS also has programs for the preservation of historic sites and for the education of the public about American history.

See also

• List of areas in the United States National Park System
• National Park Foundation
• National Parks Conservation Association