Be sure to also submit your assignment to the Discussion #1 (Parks). Both submissions are required for full credit. 

Book Reference: 
The following is an excerpt from the Environmental Science for a Changing World text:

Humans are an environmental force that impacts Earth’s ecosystems 
“

In part, these problems (referring to farming practices, over-harvesting our forests, loss of vital habitat and biodiversity, soil erosion, and water pollution, etc.) stem from a disconnect between our actions and their environmental consequences.”

Website: 
The following is an excerpt from the National Park Service website

Science in Your National Parks

“National parks contain many of our nation’s most treasured landscapes, from the majestic mountain ranges of Alaska to the vast sawgrass prairies of the Everglades. To safeguard these treasures, the National Park Service combines the best available science with innovative education and stewardship programs, such as 

Biodiversity DiscoveryLinks to an external site.
, the 

Climate Change Youth InitiativeLinks to an external site.
, and 

Geoscientists-in-ParksLinks to an external site.
.

We encourage you to “Explore Nature.” Learn about the natural resources in parks, from the rocks under our feet to the sky overhead and everything in between. Discover the issues that affect our parks and how we join with neighbors and partners to address them. Meet the people who protect our parks and learn how you can help preserve these treasures for generations to come.”

At national parks, where are all the young people?Links to an external site.
       

Does the National Park Service have a youth problem?Links to an external site.

NPS discussion regarding youth engagement in parks (circa 2009):

NPS internships (these aren’t just for grade schoolers, there are college internships available too)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p32rrchuu_Y 

Discussion Topics:

· Suggest a strategy for getting younger people to attend national parks on a regular basis.

· Do you think it’s important for younger people to visit our national parks and/or other park system(s) in order to make the connection between our actions and environmental consequences?

Reply to two of your classmates’ posts with substantive, conversation provoking comments on their submissions

REMINDER – This is basically a two (2) part assignment.  The initial post is due by the date listed on the Dropbox assignment, and the Peer review by the date listed for the forum. 

Minimum Word Counts:

· 300-400 words on first post

· 200 words on peer reviews (replies)

NO PLAGARISM INSTRUCTOR IS STRICT!!!!