America's Crown Jewels in Peril:  10 National Parks Facing Environmental Threats

18th March, 2024

CHIRANJIT MITRA

Named for its majestic glaciers, most are expected to vanish by 2030 due to rising temperatures. This park is a stark reminder of the urgency of climate action.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Everglades National Park, Florida

Sea level rise and saltwater intrusion threaten the delicate balance of the Everglades' unique ecosystem.  Protecting this "River of Grass" is vital for countless species.

Dry Tortugas National Park, Florida

This cluster of islands faces a double whammy: rising sea levels and increasingly powerful hurricanes.  These storms can damage historical sites and disrupt the fragile marine environment.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

While recently protected from uranium mining, the Grand Canyon still faces air and water pollution challenges.  Dust storms and haze can obscure the breathtaking views, while water contamination threatens the Colorado River.

Yosemite National Park, California

Giant sequoias, the park's iconic trees, are threatened by wildfires fueled by drought and climate change.  Protecting these ancient giants and the park's diverse ecosystems requires proactive management strategies.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

This desert park is experiencing an invasion of non-native grasses fueled by climate change and nitrogen deposition.  These grasses threaten the native Joshua Trees and other desert flora.

Denali National Park and Preserve, Alaska

Permafrost thaw due to rising temperatures disrupts the delicate balance of the Alaskan tundra.  This change can have cascading effects on wildlife and plant life.

Great Smoky Mountains National Park, North Carolina & Tennessee

Air pollution, primarily from coal-fired power plants, is a major concern.  It can damage vegetation, reduce visibility, and harm human health.

Saguaro National Park, Arizona

These iconic cacti grow slowly and are particularly vulnerable to vandalism and habitat loss.  Protecting these majestic sentinels of the Sonoran Desert is crucial.

Acadia National Park, Maine

Rising sea levels and ocean acidification threaten the park's rocky coastline and marine ecosystems.  Protecting Acadia's beauty and ecological significance requires addressing climate change.