National parks under pressure: Should conservation or recreation take precedence?

Article Abstract:

Pollution, invasive species, climate change, and encroaching development are threatening the national parks system, besides budget constraints. Recreational users and traditionalists insist that the parks' tranquility and fragile resources should remain the paramount mission, while `gateway communities' suggest that the park officials should consider their economic survival as they try to keep the parks meaningful for millions of visitors, and preserve natural values for future generations.

Environmental aspects

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Back to basics?

Article Abstract:

The National Park Service (NPS) director, Mainella, signed updated management policies on August 31, 2006 to make clear NPS' desire for people to visit and enjoy. The new version of the management manual however maintains the 2001 directive, giving conservation top priority, leaving the task of balancing recreation with preservation to the park managers.

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Ecological integrity

Article Abstract:

Serious ecological problems are threatening the National Parks System's biodiversity, particularly the 398 threatened or endangered species of plants and animals. The mission to preserve parks unimpaired includes the ecological integrity of park resources, and efforts are made to remove invasive species that threaten native wild life.

Biological diversity, Biodiversity

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Subjects list: United States, Services, Protection and preservation, National parks and reserves, National parks, United States. National Park Service
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