Washington, D.C. – David Restivo, a visual information specialist at Glacier National Park in Montana, last night received the National Freeman Tilden Award from the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) and the National Park Service for his creative and exciting design of a series of informative and interactive exhibits for visitors using the Going-to-the-Sun Road shuttle system.
“David has turned what could have been just a source of information into a source of excitement and inspiration for visitors to Glacier,” said Tom Kiernan, president of NPCA. “His project not only helps you to plan your trip through the park, but also allows you to experience the park on an emotional level.”
Through the use of such devices as three-dimensional animal tracks, a scavenger hunt, story telling, video, and quotes, each exhibit provides the visitor with a small bit of the Glacier story. All the exhibits work together to present the history of human transportation within the park, as well as tying in American Indian travel routes, animal migration, and the movement of glaciers over the centuries. Use of interactive computer screens and Podcasts broadens the appeal to the younger generation.
David also created a series of 23 family and children’s activities for the shuttle stops so that families waiting for the shuttles can have a fun and informative experience. Visitors can make a special connection to many aspects of the park and leave their impressions in onscreen “journals.”
Overall, David designed and installed 86 separate interpretive exhibits that saved the park over $300,000 and the 30 Podcasts he created reach a broad audience in the park and online at the park’s web site.
“Thanks to David, Glacier’s new shuttle system is not just a mode of transportation, but an enjoyable learning experience for park visitors of all ages,” said Kiernan.
The annual National Freeman Tilden Award, co-sponsored by NPCA and the National Park Service since 1982, recognizes outstanding contributions to the public through interpretation by a Park Service employee. Revered as an author, philosopher, and master of interpretation, Freeman Tilden (1884-1980) was a champion of America’s national parks who continues to inspire millions of visitors and park interpreters.
