WHAT: The National Parks Conservation Association’s 2008 Salute to the Parks awards dinner commemorates the preservation and protection of America’s natural, historic, and cultural heritage in the national parks.

WHO: The National Parks Conservation Association is honoring Rep. Nick Rahall and E.O. Wilson. Event attendees include members of Congress, government officials, and national and local dignitaries.

WHEN: April 16, 2008 Cocktail reception 6 - 7p.m.; Dinner and program 7 – 9:30p.m.

WHERE: National Building Museum, 401 F Street, Washington, D.C.

TICKETS: Call 202-223-6722. Tickets cost $500 and $1,000; Sponsorship opportunities start at $5,000.

WHY: The William Penn Mott Jr. Park Leadership Award is presented annually to a public official who has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to the protection of America’s natural and cultural heritage. This year, the Mott Award will be given to Rep. Nick Rahall (D-WV) for his extraordinary commitment to protecting our nation’s national parks. 

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. The National Parks Conservation Association’s 2008 Winks award will be presented to 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 National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has been the leading voice of the American people in protecting and enhancing our National Park System. NPCA, its more than 330,000 members, and many partners work together to protect the park system and preserve our nation’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage for generations to come.  

# # #