Threats to our national parks have increased dramatically in recent years, and so has the need for the public's response. Follow these top 10 tips to

1. Walk softly in our National Parks. As you collect memories and photographs, remember that parks tell America's story and safeguard our cultural and natural treasures. Do what you can to pass these national park heirlooms unharmed to future generations.
2. Become a national park champion. Join a growing number of Citizen's Protecting America's Parks by signing up for NPCA's free weekly electronic National Park Lines newsletter - learn what is happening in our National Parks and what you can do about it! Call 1-800-NAT-PARKS, ext. 229. It's that easy!
3. Use energy and resources responsibly. Many national parks are threatened by adjacent power plants, mines, logging, landfills, water development and other activities. Your responsible use of fossil fuels, electricity, and other resources, along with your efforts to reduce-reuse-recycle can protect our National Park System. Learn how you can become more energy efficient - contact a local energy advocate.

4. Leave your vehicle behind. When travelling to or through a park, consider carpools, bicycles, public transportation and other low impact options. Say "no!" to noisy jet skis, snowmobiles and other destructive motor vehicles in our parks. Contact NPCA to learn about alternative modes of transportation and appropriate motor-vehicle use.
5. Celebrate the National Park System. Visit a new park, join interpretive programs, talk with Park Rangers. Your friends, classmates, teachers, co-workers and family can find something special in a national park - and you can take them there.
6. Travelling abroad, or just across the country? Don't transport plants or animals that could invade parks and other natural areas. Even accidental introductions (from bugs in your luggage to dirt on your tent floor) can threaten native plants and wildlife. Be careful, and follow international regulations designed to keep critters at home.
7. Make your opinions known to public officials. Be a voice for our national parks - stay informed and let your elected officials know how you want them to vote on park issues. Write letters to the editor addressing the positions your representatives and senators take in Congress. Ask candidates about park funding and protection, and make your own voice heard at the ballot box. Keep up with Congress.
8. Advocate for the integrity of America's national parks. Communication towers, commuter routes, adjacent landfills and encroaching development have no place in the National Park System. Encourage the National Park Service to uphold its mission "? to preserve the parks? unimpaired." Learn more about NPCA's list of the Ten Most Endangered National Parks.
9. Rediscover your own history. The National Park System commemorates immigrant arrivals, Native American culture, invention, industry, heroines and heroes, and landmarks in American history. What connections are there to your own past, or to events shaping your future? Visit a park and explore the tapestry of American culture.
10. Want to roll up your sleeves? Volunteer in the parks! Organize a March for Parks event in your community or contact a park friends group or the National Park Service to learn about other volunteer opportunities. Email NPCA at TakeAction!@npca.org to find a friends group near you.

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