Geoconservation Programs

A young man in green pullover and tan ball cap stands with a tripod and camera looking toward the towering El Capitan in the distance. — Geoscientists-in-the-Parks participant, Nikita Avdievitch, conducting a “structure from motion” 3D photogrammetry survey of the 2017 El Capitan rockfalls from the Yosemite Valley floor, Yosemite National Park, California. NPS photo.

Introduction

The National Park Service works to conserve geologic resources and related visitor experiences as critical elements of overall natural resources stewardship. In nature, living (biotic) and non-living (abiotic) components of the ecosystem are inextricably linked, so NPS goals for conserving natural systems require attention to maintaining both biodiversity and geodiversity.

Earth scientists from many disciplines work to improve the Park Service's ability to gather, analyze, and use geoscience information. Geologic resources management is part of each park's natural resource activities, including: Inventory and Monitoring, Research, Education and Outreach, Resource Protection, Mitigation and Restoration, and Planning and Permits.