Anchorage - The National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) kicked-off its new, free Alaska National Parks Discovery lecture series this week with a presentation by Lowell Thomas at the REI store in Anchorage on Tuesday night. More than 100 residents attended the event to learn about Alaska's national parks.
"Alaska's 15 national parks and monuments make up two-thirds of the total acreage of the National Park System. The Goal of our new Discovery Series is to educate Alaskans about the diversity found in these sacred and special places, encourage visitation, and build support for their protection," said NPCA Field Representative and series organizer Jeremiah Millen.
Former Alaska Lt. Governor Thomas shared stories and photographs of his experiences as a bush pilot in Denali. He expressed concern about the funding challenges facing parks today, and the need for adequate funding to protect these special places.
The Alaska National Parks Discovery Series is a monthly program hosted by NPCA and featuring a diverse array of Alaskan speakers who share personal stories inspired by Alaska's national parks. From road-accessible parks such as Wrangell St.-Elias National Park & Preserve to remote parks such as Aniakchak National & Preserve, the series highlights recreational opportunities, significant historical and cultural sites, and the role parks play as a driving force for Alaska's economy.
The next speaker in NPCA's Discovery Series is Nora Tobin, presenting "Bacon and Bears along the Aniakchak River," Tuesday, February 6, at 7 p.m., at the REI store in Anchorage.
Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association has been the leading voice of the American people in protecting and enhancing our National Park System. NPCA, its members, and partners work together to protect the park system and preserve our nation's natural, historical, and cultural heritage for generations to come.
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