National Parks at a Crossroads
General Accounting Office Analysis
In recent years, concern has grown over the health of America’s national parks. These parks contain many of the country’s most significant natural areas and historic sites. In response to several congressional requests, the General Accounting Office (GAO) reviewed the National Park Service’s efforts at meeting its dual missions of serving visitors and protecting the natural and cultural resources entrusted to it. GAO’s review focused on 12 park units — four national parks, two historic parks and one historic site, two monuments, one battlefield, one recreation area, and one seashore. Chosen for the diversity they present in size, type, and…
