Use of national parks on the decline, yet easy to overlook
Issue date: 10/1/09 Section: Letters
I wanted to let you know how much I appreciated your article on the financial problems the national parks are facing, but more importantly, the decline in use of them by Americans.
Because they have been such an integral part of the "backdrop" of this country, it is far too easy to take them for granted. I agree with the article, and with Richard Louv's position that our neglect of our wild places threatens our health in ways we are not always aware of.
A personal experience provides illustration. While visiting a relative some time ago, I noted that he was watching a documentary of Yellowstone Park on TV.
He proceeded to regale me with the virtues of his high-def TV screen and elaborate, "high end" sound system. Unable to contain myself, I replied, "I guess I'd rather spend all that money to actually GO there." He stopped short and replied, "Well, yeah, I guess you're right."
We need to rekindle our love of the places that give us so much, while only asking reverence and protection in return. I don't think we will be disappointed with the return on such an investment of our commitment, and yes, affection.
Michelle Hazard
Fairchild, Wis.
Because they have been such an integral part of the "backdrop" of this country, it is far too easy to take them for granted. I agree with the article, and with Richard Louv's position that our neglect of our wild places threatens our health in ways we are not always aware of.
A personal experience provides illustration. While visiting a relative some time ago, I noted that he was watching a documentary of Yellowstone Park on TV.
He proceeded to regale me with the virtues of his high-def TV screen and elaborate, "high end" sound system. Unable to contain myself, I replied, "I guess I'd rather spend all that money to actually GO there." He stopped short and replied, "Well, yeah, I guess you're right."
We need to rekindle our love of the places that give us so much, while only asking reverence and protection in return. I don't think we will be disappointed with the return on such an investment of our commitment, and yes, affection.
Michelle Hazard
Fairchild, Wis.
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