Stories

During 2024 scouting for a large eastern grassland restoration project funded by IRA and BIL, several old growth remnant grasslands were identified in National Capital and Northeast Region parks that were previously unknown. These remnants preserve the genetic integrity of the original grassland flora of the eastern US and are true unexpected treasures that in some cases, were hidden in plain sight.

The National Park Service will restore up to 4,000 acres of agricultural fields and degraded lands across 37 parks in 15 states. This landscape-scale restoration project will expand the range and connectivity of native grasslands across the eastern US, restore biodiversity and critical ecosystem functions, reduce pesticide use, benefit people and wildlife, and create employment opportunities for diverse early career youth.

To steward amphibians effectively, managers need basic information about which species live in parks. But species lists need constant maintenance to remain accurate. Due to recent efforts, the National Park Service now has an up-to-date amphibian species checklist for almost 300 parks. This information can serve as the basis for innumerable conservation efforts across the nation.

George Washington encounters a French patrol in a secluded glen in 1754. Contemporary historian Horace Walpole said it was here that "The volley fired by a young Virginian in the backwoods of America set the world on fire."

Learn about the everyday heroes at five western Pennsylvania National Park Sites who rose to the challenges that faced them and made history. Answer questions and learn about Allegheny Portage Railroad national Historic Site, Flight 93 National Memorial, Fort Necessity National Battlefield, Friendship Hill National Historic Site and Johnstown Flood National Memorial to become a Virtual Junior Ranger.

The road George Washington cut through the forest was replaced by the National Road. The road bustled with traffic heading from port to plains and plains to port.

Washington’s trip to the French at Fort LeBoeuf had shown he was skilled and dependable leading to new opportunities for the young Virginian.

Washington’s trip to the French at Fort LeBoeuf had shown he was skilled and dependable and led to new opportunities for the young Virginian.

As Washington journeys into the wilderness he experiences difficult situations: the winter trip was snowy, he needed to consult with the American Indians, and negotiate with the French. He succeeded in delivering the governor's letter to the French.

George Washington had an exciting trip in 1753 when he delivered a letter from the Virginia governor to the French at Fort LeBoeuf. The return trip with the French reply was just as difficult and hazardous.