National Parks Conservation Association Salutes Members of Congress with National Parks Award

WASHINGTON — On July 15 and 16, 2015, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) will honor members of Congress with the Friend of the National Parks Award for their contribution to the protection and enhancement of America’s national parks. The award will be presented to current members of Congress for their support of pro-park votes during the 113th Congress that upheld the standards and integrity of the National Park System.

“This diverse group of representatives and senators from across the aisle and country used their votes during the 113th Congress to stand up for the natural, scenic, educational, cultural, historical, and recreational opportunities that our parks provide,” said NPCA President and CEO Clark Bunting. “As the National Park System’s centennial approaches, it’s imperative that these champions fight for an increase in park funding, promote land conservation, and reduce the impacts of climate change on national parks.”

Award recipients will be honored today and tomorrow at receptions on Capitol Hill. To view a complete list of the 228 members of Congress who received a Friend of the National Parks Award, click here. Reception photos are also available online here.

NPCA’s Friend of the National Parks Award was established in 1999 to track and publicize congressional members’ votes on significant park issues. Last Congress, NPCA tracked votes for three national park-related votes in the Senate and five in the House of Representatives. To receive the award, senators needed to vote in favor of national parks on at least two scored bills and representatives on at least three scored bills.

###

About the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA):
Since 1919, the nonpartisan National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA) has been the leading voice for our national parks. NPCA and its more than one million members and supporters work together to protect and preserve our nation’s natural, historical, and cultural heritage for future generations. For more information, visit www.npca.org.