Washington, DC —Today, National Parks Caucus co-chairs Reps. Ron Kind (D-WI) and Will Hurd (R-TX) introduced a bipartisan resolution commemorating the 50th anniversary of the National Park Service (NPS) Volunteers-in-Parks program. Since its creation in 1970, the Volunteers-in-Parks program has created countless opportunities for individuals and groups to get involved with our National Park System and contribute to the important work being done.
“Every year, hundreds of volunteers dedicate their time, energy, and expertise to the National Park Service through this important program,” said Rep. Ron Kind. “These volunteers play a critical role, working alongside park service employees on everything from conservation to education. As the founder and co-chair of the National Parks Caucus, I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution with my fellow co-chair Rep. Will Hurd to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Volunteers-in-Parks program and honor these volunteers for the work they do each day to make visiting our national parks so special. I will continue to fight for our National Park System and initiatives like the Volunteers-in-Parks program to preserve our nation’s natural resources for future generations.”
“From serving in visitor centers, to assisting in resource management and participating in conservation projects, volunteers contribute to services central to the operation of the National Park Service. I’m proud to join my fellow co-chair, Rep. Ron Kind, in commemorating the 50th anniversary of the Volunteers-In-Parks program. I hope we will see this incredible program continue for decades so future Americans have the same opportunity to give back to our parks. Individuals both young and old have contributed to our national parks through this vital program, and, because of them, millions of Americans are able to experience the natural gems our country has to offer,” said Rep. Will Hurd.
Wisconsin is home to multiple NPS areas, including the Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, and the Ice Age National Historic Trail. The NPS hosts over 325 million recreational visits each year, and maintains 879 visitor centers within the 410 NPS parks. The system employs more than 20,000 workers, and is assisted by 246,000 annual volunteers.
Rep. Kind is the founder and co-chair of the National Parks Caucus and a long-time member of the Congressional Wildlife Refuge Caucus and Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus. He has been a tireless advocate for legislation that protects the National Park System and preserves our nation’s natural resources.
