Washington, DC – The nation's leading park advocacy organization, the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA), will today recognize Rep. Nick Rahall (D-WV) and E.O. Wilson for their work on behalf of America's national parks. The event, Salute to the Parks, will be held at 6p.m. at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.
“This special evening is an opportunity to recognize the individuals who make it their mission to preserve and protect our national parks,” said NPCA President Tom Kiernan. “As we prepare for the centennial of the National Park System in 2016, these magnificent park stewards serve as inspirations for us all.”
NPCA's annual dinner draws hundreds of dignitaries, including members of Congress, the National Park Service, and national park supporters from across the country; 500 guests are expected this year. Kiernan will be Master of Ceremonies for the evening. Rep. George Miller (D-CA) and NPCA Board Chair Gene Sykes will serve as tribute speakers for the 2008 honorees.
NPCA's William Penn Mott Jr. Park Leadership Award will be presented to Rep. Rahall for his extraordinary commitment to protecting our country's national parks. The award is presented annually to a public official who has shown an outstanding commitment to the protection of our nation's natural and cultural heritage.
The Robin W. Winks Award for Enhancing Public Understanding of National Parks is given annually to an individual or organization that has effectively communicated the values of the National Park System to the American public. This year, NPCA honors Harvard professor, author, and renowned biologist E.O. Wilson for his work educating the public about the biological diversity and environmental importance of America’s national parks.
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, historic, and cultural heritage for generations to come.
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