Park Service Finalizes New Guidelines for Park Fundraising

WASHINGTON – The National Park Service (NPS) today released its newly finalized policy for philanthropy and other fundraising partnerships benefiting national parks.

The finalized update to the existing “Director’s Order # 21: Philanthropic Partnerships” clarifies and updates internal NPS guidance regarding fundraising and partnerships, as well as recognition of donors in parks.

Below is a statement by Theresa Pierno, President and CEO of National Parks Conservation Association:

“We are reviewing the finalized guidance by the Park Service to determine what impact these new policies may have on our national parks, the agency and the visiting experience. We had significant concerns with the draft proposal released in May, including making fundraising an active and required part of superintendents’ duties along with overly and inappropriately expanding donor recognition in parks. While we see a role for public-private partnerships and donor recognition in parks, we want to make sure these final changes do not come at the expense of visitors’ park experience, public perception of the Park Service, and the duties of park staff to foremost protect resources and serve visitors.”

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About National Parks Conservation Association Since 1919, the nonpartisan has been the leading voice in safeguarding our national parks. NPCA and its more than one million 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.