From their inspiring origins to today’s climate pressures, explore why our National Parks need bold action to remain unimpaired.

We’ll explore the National Park Service’s history and its longstanding work with sustainability in the face of climate changes that are already impacting our parks. Learn about the challenges our parks now face in a rapidly shifting climate—and consider what must be done to protect our National Parks.

Our course leader, Shawn Norton, served nearly four decades with the National Park Service (NPS), including time spent as NPS Sustainability Coordinator. 

This two-session course offers a unique insider look into the history, conservation legacy, and current environmental challenges of our national parks. We will trace the origins of the park system and examine how the NPS has approached sustainability and resource management over time. Shawn will discuss innovative sustainability strategies and community-driven stewardship initiatives designed to keep our national parks and public lands unimpaired for generations to come. 

What to expect: 

National Parks are the “best idea we ever had,” but climate changes threaten these iconic places and demands increased sustainability efforts to keep them unimpaired.

You will learn the history and evolution of our National Park Service and gain a clear understanding of its unique role in raising awareness of how climate changes are harming our public lands.   

2 Wednesdays | Nov 4, 11 | 1:30 – 3pm | HYBRID (choose to attend in person, via Zoom or wait for a recording)| $40