The Natural Sounds and Night Skies Division supports NPS units system-wide by providing:

  • scientific leadership to advance understanding and stewardship of natural sounds and night skies;
  • highly specialized technical assistance;
  • and best practices and educational tools.
More specifically, we provide assistance in:
  • collecting baseline data for ambient acoustic and night sky quality,
  • and identifying source-specific impacts and solutions to reduce, mitigate or prevent anthropogenic noise and excessive light in and around parks and national trails.
We also assist with park planning, compliance, and external project reviews to help parks reduce impacts from noise and light pollution to natural and cultural resources and visitor enjoyment. The Overflights Program provides assistance related to air tour management, airspace design, military overflights, airport capacity enhancement projects, and park specific administrative flights. 

blue stream-like rivers zigzag through green vegetation
Air Tour Management Plans and Updates

As part of the Air Tour Management Plan process, the NPS and FAA are conducting stakeholder and public meetings.

Audio recording equipment monitors sounds in a remote location of Denali National Park & Preserve
Natural Sounds

Natural and cultural sounds are vital components of park environments, and connect us to the qualities that define these special places.

A natural arch formation frames this view of the Milky Way and constellations at Canyonlands NP
Night Skies

A naturally dark night sky is more than a scenic canvas; it is part of a complex ecosystem that supports both natural and cultural resources

Last updated: January 2, 2025

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