National Park Service Announces Additional Projects to Prepare for Climate Change

Today the National Park Service released project data for national parks’ use of Inflation Reduction Act funds, the second announcement since the bill was passed in August 2022.

Statement by Chad Lord, Senior Director of Environmental Policy and Climate Change, Government Affairs:

“Today’s announcement again reinforces the importance of the Inflation Reduction Act and the projects it supports. These dedicated funds help our national parks prepare for the unavoidable floods, fires, droughts and storms resulting from climate change. Since August 2022, this bill has represented a huge stride towards recognizing the need for national parks to receive the resources necessary to meet the climate crisis.

“These projects not only respond to the pressing need to prepare for climate change, but also curb climate change impacts on the cultural and natural resources within America’s most treasured places. It is clear that parks across this country must respond to the urgent need for action and infrastructure as we face more severe, intense climate disasters. IRA funds are a sensible down payment to this end, but parks need sustained funding to prepare for the future so they can thrive, not just survive.

“As an organization deeply committed to the preservation and protection of our national parks, NPCA is thrilled to see climate change receive the attention and care it requires. The foresight demonstrated in preparing parks for climate change is a testament to the National Park Service’s commitment to the long-term health and sustainability of these natural wonders. By embracing innovative solutions and integrating climate-conscious measures into park management, the Inflation Reduction Act projects underscore our shared dedication to ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the awe-inspiring beauty of our national parks.”

Though only a fifth of Americans know about the IRA’s immense potential to aid parks in preparing for unavoidable climate impacts, 79% of them support funding the National Park Service to invest in curbing floods, creating wildlife habitat, improving pollution runoff and otherwise making parks stronger in the face of climate change.

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About National Parks Conservation Association: Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than 1.6 million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s most iconic and inspirational places for future generations. For more information, visit http://www.npca.org/.