Celebrating 109 Years of America’s Greatest Idea

Today marks the 109th birthday of the National Park Service (NPS), an institution born on August 25, 1916, when President Woodrow Wilson signed the Organic Act into law. For over a century, the NPS has safeguarded our most cherished landscapes, historic treasures, and cultural landmarks. From the soaring granite walls of Yosemite to the sweeping plains of Yellowstone, from the solemn battlefields of Gettysburg to the coral reefs of Biscayne, our parks embody not only the best of America but also one of the greatest gifts we have ever given the world.

A Gift Across Generations

When our ancestors chose to set aside these lands, they did something extraordinary. They resisted the short-term temptations of exploitation and profit in favor of a legacy that would endure. Timber barons, miners, and railroad magnates all pressed to consume these landscapes. Yet citizens, visionaries, and lawmakers fought instead to protect them for future generations, for their children, and for us.

This was not a gift given lightly. The creation of national parks often came at great personal sacrifice. Advocates like John Muir, Theodore Roosevelt, and countless unnamed rangers, scientists, and citizens gave their energy, and sometimes their livelihoods, to ensure that these places would belong to all people, not just the wealthy or powerful. In doing so, they gave us cathedrals of granite and forests, sanctuaries for wildlife, and classrooms under the open sky.

Lessons from the Field

During my own years working in the national parks, I had the privilege of speaking with thousands of visitors about the park system. Not once did anyone say they wished our ancestors had done less to protect these places. Instead, time and again, people expressed the opposite; they wished our ancestors had done more. More land protected, more history preserved, more wildlife safeguarded. And if that’s what we say today, future generations will surely say the same about us. It is our duty, both to those who came before us and to those who will follow, to do everything we can to protect our national parks.

A Threat to America’s Greatest Gift

Yet as we celebrate this milestone, we must also acknowledge a sobering truth: the long-term survival of our parks is under threat. The Trump Administration has repeatedly attempted to shrink national monuments, open public lands to drilling and mining, slash budgets, and undermine bedrock environmental protections. These moves risk undoing the very covenant our ancestors made on our behalf—that America’s natural and cultural treasures are not for sale or private exploitation, but for stewardship.

The parks cannot defend themselves. They rely on us, citizens, voters, and advocates to ensure they remain protected. Neglect, underfunding, and political hostility could reduce our “greatest idea” to just another line item to be cut or a resource to be exploited.

A Call to Action

On this 109th birthday of the National Park Service, let us not only celebrate but recommit. The best way to honor this legacy is through action:

➡️ Contact your elected officials, especially those in the swing districts listed below, and demand full funding and robust support for our national parks.

Nick Begich (AK - At Large)

David Schweikert (AZ - 1)

Juan Ciscomani  (AZ - 6)

Jeff Hurd (CO-3)

Gabe Evans (CO -8)

Don Bacon (NE - 2)

Ryan E. Mackenzie (PA - 7)

Rob Bresnahan Jr. (PA - 8)

Scott Perry (PA - 10)

Derrick Van Orden (WI - 3)

➡️ Remind them that these places are as American as baseball, hot dogs, and apple pie. And that you will remember their votes on national parks when they come up for re-election in 2026.
➡️ Tell them that protecting our parks means protecting our health, our history, our culture, and our children’s inheritance.

America’s national parks are more than vacation spots. They are sacred spaces, cultural treasures, and global symbols of democracy and foresight. On this day, let us celebrate their past and fight fiercely for their future.

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Meet Sean Smith, a master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning
conservationist and former National Park and Forest Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, Mount St. Helens, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and in the QR code included. 

Celebrating the Department of the Interior: A Legacy of Stewardship and Service

Today marks the anniversary of one of the most consequential agencies in the federal government: the U.S. Department of the Interior. Established in 1849, the Department of the Interior (DOI) was a groundbreaking addition to the federal government, tasked with managing the nation’s vast public lands and natural resources. Over 175 years later, the DOI remains at the heart of conservation, land management, and stewardship of America’s national parks, wildlife, and indigenous affairs.

While its mission has evolved, the DOI remains vital in protecting America’s environmental and cultural heritage. Yet, its role has often been threatened by political forces seeking to weaken environmental protections and prioritize corporate interests over public lands. The Trump administration’s efforts to undermine and gut agencies like the DOI serve as a cautionary tale about what happens when we neglect stewardship in favor of short-term exploitation.

Today, we celebrate the Department of the Interior’s enduring legacy and explore why its work is more important than ever.

The Founding of the Department of the Interior: A Landmark Moment

The DOI was officially established on March 3, 1849, just days before President James K. Polk left office. Before its creation, many of the responsibilities that the department would assume—such as managing public lands, overseeing Indian affairs, and handling patents—were scattered across various government agencies.

The creation of the DOI was precedent-setting because it consolidated these diverse responsibilities under one umbrella, making it one of the first federal agencies dedicated to domestic affairs. At the time, the U.S. was expanding westward at an unprecedented rate, and the federal government needed a centralized department to oversee the massive tracts of land being acquired, settled, and developed.

While its early years were marred by controversial policies, particularly in relation to Native American displacement, the DOI gradually evolved into a force for conservation and responsible land management. By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it became a cornerstone of America’s environmental policy, a role that continues to this day.

The Mission of the Department of the Interior

The DOI’s mission is to “protect and manage the nation’s natural resources and cultural heritage; provide scientific and other information about those resources; and honor its trust responsibilities to American Indians, Alaska Natives, and affiliated island communities.”

In simpler terms, the DOI is responsible for:

• Managing over 480 million acres of public land—about 20% of the U.S. landmass
• Overseeing the nation’s national parks, wildlife refuges, and historic sites
• Conducting scientific research on geology, water, and natural disasters
• Managing water resources, including major river systems
• Upholding the U.S. government’s responsibilities to Native American tribes
• Regulating offshore energy development

From preserving breathtaking landscapes like Yellowstone and the Grand Canyon to ensuring the responsible use of water and mineral resources, the DOI plays a crucial role in both environmental protection and economic development.

Agencies Under the Department of the Interior

The DOI is home to several agencies that directly impact the environment, public lands, and Native American affairs. Among the most well-known:

National Park Service (NPS)

Created in 1916, the National Park Service (NPS) manages over 400 national parks, monuments, and historic sites across the U.S. These parks are not just beautiful landscapes; they are living history, preserving America’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Without the NPS, iconic places like Yosemite, the Everglades, and Mount Rainier would be vulnerable to exploitation and destruction.

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS)

Founded in 1879, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) provides critical scientific research on geology, water resources, and natural disasters. USGS scientists help us understand earthquakes, volcanoes, climate change, and water scarcity—issues that are becoming increasingly urgent as global temperatures rise.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM)

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees 245 million acres of public lands, primarily in the western U.S. The BLM’s role is controversial because it balances conservation with resource extraction, including grazing, logging, and oil and gas leasing. Under strong leadership, the BLM can be a force for sustainable land use, but under industry-friendly administrations, it has been used to sell off public lands to the highest bidder.

Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA)

The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) upholds the federal government’s legal and treaty obligations to Native American tribes. While its history is fraught with injustices, today the BIA plays a crucial role in supporting tribal sovereignty, economic development, and self-determination.

These agencies and others like the Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and the Bureau of Reclamation are essential to managing America’s natural and cultural resources.

The Importance of the DOI Today

The DOI’s work is more critical than ever in the face of climate change, biodiversity loss, and growing pressure on public lands. The department helps protect the country’s fragile ecosystems, from the Arctic tundra to the deserts of the Southwest. It also plays a key role in managing water supplies, an increasingly contentious issue in drought-prone states like California and Arizona.

Furthermore, the DOI serves as a vital counterbalance to industries that seek to exploit public lands for profit. Whether it’s oil drilling in Alaska’s Arctic National Wildlife Refuge or logging on forest lands, the DOI’s leadership can determine whether these lands are protected or sacrificed to corporate interests.

The Trump Administration’s Attack on the DOI

The Trump administration waged an unprecedented assault on the DOI and its mission. Under Trump’s Interior Secretaries—first Ryan Zinke, then David Bernhardt, a former oil lobbyist, and now Doug Burgum the department is being hollowed out and redirected to serve private interests.

Some of the most damaging policies included:

• Shrinking national monuments: Trump reduced the size of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments by millions of acres, opening them to mining and drilling.
• Prioritizing oil and gas leasing: The BLM ramped up leasing public lands for oil and gas drilling, often at rock-bottom prices.
• Weakening protections for endangered species: The Fish and Wildlife Service was pressured to delay or roll back protections for species like the sage grouse, which stood in the way of energy development.
• Relocating BLM headquarters: In a move that gutted the agency, Trump’s DOI relocated the Bureau of Land Management’s headquarters to Colorado, prompting an exodus of experienced staff.
• Firing of rangers and other personnel: The firing of thousands of DOI employees, making it harder for the federal government to fight wildfires, stop poaching, mitigate climate change, and manage recreation.
• Selling of public lands and resources: Trump orders sites like the Presidio to justify its existence and liquidate public lands and facilities. 

These attacks weren’t just bad for the environment; they are bad for democracy, as they prioritized private profits over public interests.

A Future Built on Conservation and Stewardship

The Department of the Interior represents the best of American values: stewardship, conservation, and a commitment to future generations. Every time we visit a national park, see a bald eagle in the wild, or drink clean water from a protected watershed, we are benefiting from the DOI’s work.

Yet, the threats remain. Special interests and anti-environment politicians continue to push for drilling, logging, and deregulation. That’s why we must remain vigilant and support leaders who understand the importance of conservation and public lands.

As we celebrate the DOI’s March 3 anniversary, let’s recognize its profound contributions—and recommit ourselves to protecting it from those who would tear it down. The future of our parks, wildlife, and public lands depends on it.

As always, here are five simple things concerned citizens can do to voice opposition to executive overreach. 

Contact Your Elected Officials: Write letters, send emails, or call your local representatives to express your concerns about executive overreach and request accountability.

Participate in Peaceful Protests: Join or organize demonstrations and rallies to publicly show your opposition and rally like-minded citizens.

Leverage Social Media Platforms: Use online platforms to share your views, engage in discussions, and mobilize support around the issue.

Support Advocacy and Legal Organizations: Contribute to or volunteer with groups that work on government accountability and constitutional rights to help push for legal challenges and reforms.

Engage in Public Forums and Community Meetings: Attend town halls or organize community discussions to debate these issues and ensure public voices are heard at all levels of government.

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Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning conservationist and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

Celebrating 175 Years of Preserving America's Natural Heritage: The Department of Interior's Enduring Legacy

DOI Logo

On March 3, 2024, the Department of the Interior marks a momentous occasion as it celebrates its
175th birthday. This milestone not only commemorates a long and storied history but also highlights the crucial role the department has played in shaping the conservation and management of America's natural landscapes. As we reflect on its legacy, it becomes increasingly evident that the Department of the Interior's mission is more vital than ever.

Established in 1849, the Department of the Interior oversees the nation's internal affairs, including managing public lands, forests, parks, and wildlife refuges. Since its inception, the department has been entrusted with the monumental responsibility of preserving and protecting America's natural heritage for future generations.

The Department of the Interior has achieved numerous conservation and environmental stewardship milestones throughout its history. One of its most iconic achievements is the creation of the National Park System, which began with the establishment of Yellowstone National Park in 1872. Over the years, this system has expanded to over 400 sites, preserving some of the country's most breathtaking landscapes and cultural treasures.

In addition to the National Park System, the Department of the Interior has played a pivotal role in the conservation of wildlife and habitats through initiatives such as the Endangered Species Act and the establishment of wildlife refuges. These efforts have helped protect countless species from extinction and ensure our ecosystems' continued health and diversity.

The Department of the Interior faces new challenges and threats to America's natural landscapes as we look to the future. Climate change, habitat loss, and unsustainable development pose significant risks to our public lands' biodiversity and ecological integrity. Growing demands for water, minerals, and energy resources also require careful management to balance conservation with responsible development.

In the face of these challenges, the federal management of public lands, forests, parks, and wildlife refuges has never been more important. The Department of the Interior is a guardian of our natural heritage, ensuring these precious landscapes are protected and preserved for future generations.

The ability of the federal government to bring a national perspective to resource management challenges cannot be overstated. While state and local entities play vital roles in conservation efforts, many environmental issues extend beyond regional boundaries, necessitating a cohesive, nationwide approach. From mitigating the impacts of climate change to ensuring the sustainable use of water resources, federal agencies possess the authority and expertise to address complex ecological challenges on a national scale.

Moreover, federal management brings significant financial resources that can be mobilized to support conservation initiatives nationwide. Federal agencies can invest in acquiring, restoring, and maintaining public lands and waters through programs like the Land and Water Conservation Fund and the National Park Service's budget. These funds are essential for protecting critical habitats, expanding access to outdoor recreation, and preserving cultural and historical sites for the enjoyment of present and future generations.

In addition to financial resources, federal agencies boast unmatched technical skills and expertise in natural resource management. From conducting scientific research and monitoring to implementing innovative conservation strategies, federal scientists and land managers are at the forefront of efforts to protect and restore America's natural landscapes. Whether managing forests to enhance resilience to wildfires or restoring wetlands to improve water quality, federal agencies possess the knowledge and capacity to address complex ecological challenges.

Moreover, the department promotes outdoor recreation, environmental education, and scientific research, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of our natural world. Investing in conservation and sustainable management practices can safeguard our public lands and ensure that they remain vibrant and accessible for all to experience.

However, the most important aspect of federal management of the public domain is that it fosters among Americans one of the last places that creates a sense of common ground and national identity. These shared spaces serve as a testament to our nation's natural beauty and cultural heritage, offering opportunities for people from all walks of life to come together and connect with something larger than themselves. By promoting access to these treasured landscapes and encouraging stewardship, federal agencies help cultivate a shared sacred mission to protect our world for current and, perhaps more importantly, future generations.

As we celebrate the Department of the Interior's 175th birthday, we reaffirm our commitment to preserving America's natural heritage. By working together to address the challenges ahead, we can ensure that future generations inherit a world rich in natural beauty, biodiversity, and ecological abundance. Happy birthday to the Department of the Interior, and here's to many more years of conservation success!

###

Meet Sean Smith, the master of conservation, adventure, and storytelling! This award-winning author and former National Park Ranger has trekked through the wilderness of Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades, keeping nature safe with his trusty ranger hat and boots. But Sean's talents don't stop there. He's a TEDx speaker and even a private pilot, soaring through the skies like a bald eagle on a mission.

But amidst all these adventures, Sean's heart beats for storytelling. He's been spinning tales since childhood, and now he writes thrilling national park novels that'll have you hooked from the first page. Imagine the drama and mystery of the mountains combined with the adrenaline of a rollercoaster ride. That's what you'll find in Sean's books, set against the majestic backdrop of Yellowstone, Gettysburg, and Mount Rainier. His most recent thriller is set in Glacier and will drop later this year.

So, if you're craving an escape into the wild, look no further. Grab a copy of Sean's novels and prepare for an unforgettable adventure. These stories will transport you to the heart of the national parks, where danger lurks and heroes rise. Don't miss out! Find all his captivating novels right here and at the included QR code. 

It's My Birthday. Let's help the National Parks!

My birthday is fast approaching and for this one I'd like to take the opportunity to raise money for the
. The Coalition's mission is to advocate for the protection of our national parks.
Coalition to Protect America's National Parks

I've created a facebook fundraiser with a goal of  raising $500 dollars.  I'll match that money to double the gift to a $1000.  Can you help me reach my goal? The fundraiser ends in two weeks, so if you can, make a donation today!  To kick in, click here.

Thanks,

Sean

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Sean Smith is an award winning conservationist and author. He is a former National Park Ranger at Yellowstone, Glacier, and the North Cascades. He is a TEDx speaker, and private pilot. He graduated from the University of Washington in 1989 with a degree in Political Science. He got his master's in Natural Resources Management from Central Washington University in 1996. He currently runs Washington State's efforts to reduce and eliminate toxic chemicals from consumer products and serves as the Mayor Pro Tem of Covington.

He has been writing stories and books since he was a child and currently writes national park thrillers from the shadow of Mount Rainier.

All his novels can be found here: Mr. Sean D Smith

National Park Centennial Limited Edition Posters

Many of the first national parks were established to protect unique wildlife from illegal hunts and poaching. Congress establish parks like Yellowstone and Yosemite to protect species like the bison, grizzly bear, wolf, and mountain lion. Other parks protect species such as the fisher and the Nene found nowhere else on the planet.

The next edition of the National Park Centennial Limited Edition posters honors the National Park Service's efforts in wildlife conservation.

 

Sean Smith is a former Yellowstone Ranger, and an award winning conservationist, TEDx speaker, and author. He writes national park thrillers from his home in the shadow of Mount Rainier National Park. To learn more about his thrillers click here or follow him on twitter: @parkthrillers

Happy Birthday National Parks! You get the Prize!

Follow us on twitter to claim your present!

Happy Birthday to the National Park Service! August 25th marks the service's 99th birthday and starts the countdown to its centennial.  The next 365 days will be filled with countless events, celebrations, and parties to mark the coming 100th birthday.

To celebrate, National Park Thrillers is giving away a free digital copy of Lost Cause, the best selling national park thriller.  All one has to do to claim your copy is to follow Park Thrillers on Twitter. We can be found on Twitter at:

https://twitter.com/parkthrillers

or search for us

@parkthrillers

The free give away begins at 11:59pm August 24th 2015 and ends 12:01am on the 26th. Any new Twitter followers to Park Thrillers during that time will receive a free digital copy of the thriller.

Happy Birthday to the National Parks! Time to celebrate!