NPS Responsibility

Scientists survey the view along the river at Delaware Water Gap.

NPS Photo

 

Scenic views are core to the national park idea.

In fact, the National Park Service was established largely to conserve scenery!

Scenic views are valued both for their beauty and also as a way to connect people with culture and history. The NPS Organic Act makes us responsible for preserving important natural, cultural, and historic views into the future.

 

NPS Organic Act

To conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and the wild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations. (1916, U.S.C., title 16, sec. 1.)

 

Scenery is key to the purpose and significance of many park units and is often called out specifically in the laws that created these parks. These laws are called enabling legislation and can be found on individual park webpages.

Many views extend well beyond parks. Because people don’t “see” boundaries, it is essential for the NPS to understand, maintain, restore, and protect park views in a way that reflects the visitor experience. We work cooperatively with park neighbors to conserve our treasured landscapes into the future. Learn more about conserving park views.