A monumental $100 million grant is poised to reshape America’s national parks, marking the largest donation ever received by the National Park Foundation. This unprecedented gift from Lilly Endowment Inc. will target critical conservation projects across over 400 park sites, including the restoration of endangered coral reefs in Florida and imperiled trout species in the West.
Record-Breaking $100 Million Grant to Transform National Parks
The National Park Foundation is set to receive a landmark $100 million grant, the largest donation in its history. This transformative gift from Indianapolis-based Lilly Endowment Inc. promises to significantly impact the future of America’s national parks.
Funding to Address Critical Needs Across 400 Sites
The $100 million grant will be directed toward addressing critical needs across more than 400 national park sites. The National Park Foundation, established by Congress in the 1960s to support the parks, views this donation as a game-changer for its conservation efforts.
Coral Reef Restoration at Biscayne National Park
One of the top priorities for the grant is the restoration of coral reefs at Biscayne National Park in Florida. These delicate ecosystems have been under threat for years, and the infusion of funds will enable significant conservation efforts to preserve this natural treasure.
Trout Species Restoration in Western Parks
In addition to coral reef restoration, the grant will also focus on the recovery of trout species in western national parks. These species have faced numerous challenges, and the funding will help protect and restore their habitats.
Expanding Youth Access to National Parks
The National Park Foundation is committed to ensuring that the nation’s parks are accessible to everyone, especially the younger generation. Part of the grant will be used to create opportunities for young people to visit and experience these natural wonders, fostering a lifelong appreciation for conservation.
Supercharging Conservation Efforts
Will Shafroth, president and CEO of the National Park Foundation, emphasized that this grant will supercharge their conservation efforts. With this unprecedented level of support, the foundation can address some of the most pressing environmental issues facing the parks today.
Preserving Iconic and Remote Sites
The national park system includes a vast array of sites, from iconic locations like Yellowstone and Yosemite to less accessible areas such as Buck Island Reef National Monument in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The grant will benefit both well-known and remote sites, ensuring that all areas receive the attention they need.
Supporting the Campaign for National Parks
This historic donation is a significant boost to the National Park Foundation’s ongoing $1 billion fundraising campaign, known as the “Campaign for National Parks.” The campaign aims to secure the future of the parks by enhancing programming and ensuring their long-term vibrancy.
Lilly Endowment’s Vision for the Future
Lilly Endowment’s generous $100 million gift reflects a strong commitment to the preservation and future of America’s national parks. The foundation believes that this contribution will play a crucial role in maintaining the vitality of the country’s park system for generations to come.
A Legacy of Conservation and Access
As the National Park Foundation prepares to announce the first round of grants from this donation later this year, the impact of this historic gift is set to resonate for years. By funding critical conservation projects and expanding access to the parks, this grant ensures that America’s natural heritage will be preserved and enjoyed by future generations.
