The only baseball stadium in the National Park System and one of the last surviving stadiums with a rich Negro League history, Hinchliffe Stadium at Paterson Great Falls was nearly lost for good. This spring, a fully restored Hinchliffe reopened to much fanfare—and we take you out to the ballgame. Host Todd Christopher captures the sounds of opening day and speaks with Brian LoPinto, founder of The Friends of Hinchliffe Stadium, Andre Sayegh, mayor of Paterson, New Jersey, and Darren Boch, superintendent of Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park. Original theme music by Chad FischerThe Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; HostJennifer Errick – Producer &amp; HostBev Stanton – Online ProducerThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org

The only baseball stadium in the National Park System and one of the last surviving stadiums with a rich Negro League history, Hinchliffe Stadium at Paterson Great Falls was nearly lost for good. This spring, a fully restored Hinchliffe reopened to much fanfare—and we take you out to the ballgame. Host Todd Christopher captures the sounds of opening day and speaks with Brian LoPinto, founder of The Friends of Hinchliffe Stadium, Andre Sayegh, mayor of Paterson, New Jersey, and Darren Boch, superintendent of Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park. Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer</a>The Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; Host Jennifer Errick – Producer &amp; Host Bev Stanton – Online ProducerThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="https://www.npca.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

Opening Day

Created by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 as "a new kind of national park," national heritage areas are large, regionally distinctive sites that celebrate human experience and achievement. Congress passed new legislation expanding and improving the heritage area system late last year--yet many people are unfamiliar with these hidden gems and the economic benefits they offer. Now, as national heritage areas could be entering a new era of improved visibility, host Jennifer Errick speaks with Sara Capen, chair of the Alliance for National Heritage Areas and executive director of the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area in New York State; Bernard Turner, writer, historian and executive director of the Bronzeville Black Metropolis National Heritage Area; and Dr. Tina Naremore Jones, vice president for Economic and Workforce Development and assistant provost at the University of West Alabama on why heritage areas are so important to the communities they serve.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton, Linda Coutant and Vanessa Pius. Special thanks to Alan Spears, NPCA’s long-standing expert on national heritage areas. Original theme music by Chad Fischer.Learn more about national heritage areas at nationalheritageareas.us.Learn more about this podcast and listen to the rest of our stories at thesecretlivesofparks.org. The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more and join us at npca.org.

Created by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 as "a new kind of national park," national heritage areas are large, regionally distinctive sites that celebrate human experience and achievement. Congress passed new legislation expanding and improving the heritage area system late last year--yet many people are unfamiliar with these hidden gems and the economic benefits they offer. Now, as national heritage areas could be entering a new era of improved visibility, host Jennifer Errick speaks with Sara Capen, chair of the Alliance for National Heritage Areas and executive director of the Niagara Falls National Heritage Area in New York State; Bernard Turner, writer, historian and executive director of the Bronzeville Black Metropolis National Heritage Area; and Dr. Tina Naremore Jones, vice president for Economic and Workforce Development and assistant provost at the University of West Alabama on why heritage areas are so important to the communities they serve.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton, Linda Coutant and Vanessa Pius. Special thanks to Alan Spears, NPCA’s long-standing expert on national heritage areas. Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer.</a>Learn more about national heritage areas at <a href="https://www.nationalheritageareas.us/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">nationalheritageareas.us.</a>Learn more about this podcast and listen to the rest of our stories at <a href="https://thesecretlivesofparks.org. " rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thesecretlivesofparks.org. </a>The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more and join us at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org.</a>

The Heart of America’s Story

Christopher Benson, associate professor of journalism at the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, has worked for years to preserve the story of Emmett Till. He coauthored two books with members of the Till family that counter widespread misinformation and emphasize the humanity of the child at the center one of America’s most heinous crimes.Now, as anticipation builds around a potential new national park site honoring Emmett Till and his mother, civil rights icon Mamie Till-Mobley, host Jennifer Errick speaks with Benson on both of his groundbreaking books with the Till family, the enduring significance of this history, and the importance of uncovering and preserving the truth.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton and Vanessa Pius.Special thanks to Alan Spears and Kyle Groetzinger.Original theme music by Chad Fischer.Learn more about The Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley Institute at thetillinstitute.org.Learn more about this podcast and listen to the rest of our stories at thesecretlivesofparks.org.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks.Learn more and join us at npca.org

Christopher Benson, associate professor of journalism at the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, has worked for years to preserve the story of Emmett Till. He coauthored two books with members of the Till family that counter widespread misinformation and emphasize the humanity of the child at the center one of America’s most heinous crimes.Now, as anticipation builds around a potential new national park site honoring Emmett Till and his mother, civil rights icon Mamie Till-Mobley, host Jennifer Errick speaks with Benson on both of his groundbreaking books with the Till family, the enduring significance of this history, and the importance of uncovering and preserving the truth.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton and Vanessa Pius.Special thanks to Alan Spears and Kyle Groetzinger.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer.</a>Learn more about The Emmett Till and Mamie Till-Mobley Institute at <a href="https://www.thetillinstitute.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thetillinstitute.org</a>.Learn more about this podcast and listen to the rest of our stories at <a href="https://thesecretlivesofparks.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thesecretlivesofparks.org.</a>The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks.Learn more and join us at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

Memorializing the Truth

The Cuyahoga River was once a burning symbol of pollution and neglect — then the public demanded action to protect it. Decades of work have transformed the river into a thriving recreational destination for millions of visitors.Today, this dedication continues with major restoration projects that are revitalizing waterways, bringing back wildlife and improving the park and the Great Lakes region. Want a dose of optimism this Earth Day? We’ve got you covered.In this episode, host Jennifer Errick speaks with Plant Ecologist Chris Davis at Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Great Lakes Senior Program Manager Kira Davis with the National Parks Conservation Association on how funding from a dedicated initiative has supported vital restoration work in the Cuyahoga River watershed as well as many other improvement projects in the Great Lakes region.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton, Alison Heis, Linda Coutant and Vanessa Pius.Special thanks to Terrance Liggins for capturing the sounds of Stanford Run and other special places at Cuyahoga Valley National Park.Original theme music by Chad Fischer.Learn more about this podcast and listen to the rest of our stories at thesecretlivesofparks.org.Learn more about Cuyahoga Valley National Park at nps.gov/cuva and see their calendar of upcoming volunteer events at nps.gov/cuva/getinvolved/volunteer.htmLearn more about projects the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is making possible throughout the Great Lakes region.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more and join us at npca.org

The Cuyahoga River was once a burning symbol of pollution and neglect — then the public demanded action to protect it. Decades of work have transformed the river into a thriving recreational destination for millions of visitors.Today, this dedication continues with major restoration projects that are revitalizing waterways, bringing back wildlife and improving the park and the Great Lakes region. Want a dose of optimism this Earth Day? We’ve got you covered.In this episode, host Jennifer Errick speaks with Plant Ecologist Chris Davis at Cuyahoga Valley National Park and Great Lakes Senior Program Manager Kira Davis with the National Parks Conservation Association on how funding from a dedicated initiative has supported vital restoration work in the Cuyahoga River watershed as well as many other improvement projects in the Great Lakes region.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton, Alison Heis, Linda Coutant and Vanessa Pius.Special thanks to Terrance Liggins for capturing the sounds of Stanford Run and other special places at Cuyahoga Valley National Park.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer.</a>Learn more about this podcast and listen to the rest of our stories at <a href="https://thesecretlivesofparks.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thesecretlivesofparks.org.</a>Learn more about Cuyahoga Valley National Park at <a href="http://nps.gov/cuva" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">nps.gov/cuva</a> and see their calendar of upcoming volunteer events at <a href="https://nps.gov/cuva/getinvolved/volunteer.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">nps.gov/cuva/getinvolved/volunteer.htm</a><a href="https://www.npca.org/resources/3437-a-sound-investment-restoring-the-great-lakes-in-our-national-parks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Learn more</a> about projects the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative is making possible throughout the Great Lakes region.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more and join us at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

Hope Along the Cuyahoga

What we experience in our national parks can sometimes leave us at a loss for words, but park-inspired poets prove that finding those words can be nothing short of extraordinary.To honor the National Park Service centennial in 2016, the Academy of American Poets commissioned 50 poems to celebrate national parks in every state. Today, we’re taking a closer look at five of our favorites, including:Ada Limón | Notes on the BelowNathalie Handal | Accepting Heaven at Great BasinArthur Sze | White SandsMeg Day | The Permanent WayMajor Jackson | Song as Abridged Thesis of George Perkins Marsh’s Man and NatureEpisode 17, “A Collision of Breaths,” was produced by Todd Christopher.Original theme music by Chad FischerAudio clips courtesy of the American Academy of Poets. For the complete collection “Imagine Our Parks with Poems,” please visit: https://poets.org/imagine-our-parks-poemsThe Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by:Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; Host Jennifer Errick – Producer &amp; Host Bev Stanton – Online Producer Vaness Pius – Social Media ManagerThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org

What we experience in our national parks can sometimes leave us at a loss for words, but park-inspired poets prove that finding those words can be nothing short of extraordinary.To honor the National Park Service centennial in 2016, the Academy of American Poets commissioned 50 poems to celebrate national parks in every state. Today, we’re taking a closer look at five of our favorites, including:<ul><li>Ada Limón | Notes on the Below</li><li>Nathalie Handal | Accepting Heaven at Great Basin</li><li>Arthur Sze | White Sands</li><li>Meg Day | The Permanent Way</li><li>Major Jackson | Song as Abridged Thesis of George Perkins Marsh’s Man and Nature</li></ul>Episode 17, “A Collision of Breaths,” was produced by Todd Christopher.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer</a>Audio clips courtesy of the American Academy of Poets. For the complete collection “Imagine Our Parks with Poems,” please visit: <a href="https://poets.org/imagine-our-parks-poems" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://poets.org/imagine-our-parks-poems</a>The Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by:Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; Host  Jennifer Errick – Producer &amp; Host  Bev Stanton – Online Producer  Vaness Pius – Social Media ManagerThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

A Collision of Breaths

Ben Goldfarb was looking forward to a sunny kayaking trip at Padre Island National Seashore in Texas, but unseasonable weather blew his plans apart, and he found himself instead falling face-first into the frigid waters of the Laguna Madre.In this episode, the award-winning conservation writer speaks with host Jennifer Errick on his new feature in National Parks magazine — the trip he planned to have, the adventure he and his wife actually enjoyed, and how he wove elements of history, nature, wildlife and climate-driven conflict together into a lighthearted, informative story about the austere delights and disappointments of world’s largest undeveloped barrier island. He also shares how he built his career traveling to exciting places and writing about them, and the fascination with a particular rodent that led to his first book.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton, Rona Marech, Linda Coutant and Vanessa Pius.Original theme music by Chad Fischer.Learn more about this podcast and listen to the rest of our stories at thesecretlivesofparks.org.Read Ben Goldfarb’s story about Padre Island, “Into the Wind,” in the Spring 2023 issue of National Parks Magazine at npca.org/intothewind. Read his Summer 2002 story, “Troubled Waters,” at npca.org/troubledwaters.National Parks magazine is a beautiful award-winning quarterly publication and an exclusive benefit of membership in the National Parks Conservation Association. Start your subscription at npca.org/subscribe.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks.Learn more and join us at npca.org.

Ben Goldfarb was looking forward to a sunny kayaking trip at Padre Island National Seashore in Texas, but unseasonable weather blew his plans apart, and he found himself instead falling face-first into the frigid waters of the Laguna Madre.In this episode, the award-winning conservation writer speaks with host Jennifer Errick on his new feature in National Parks magazine — the trip he planned to have, the adventure he and his wife actually enjoyed, and how he wove elements of history, nature, wildlife and climate-driven conflict together into a lighthearted, informative story about the austere delights and disappointments of world’s largest undeveloped barrier island. He also shares how he built his career traveling to exciting places and writing about them, and the fascination with a particular rodent that led to his first book.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton, Rona Marech, Linda Coutant and Vanessa Pius.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer.</a>Learn more about this podcast and listen to the rest of our stories at <a href="http://thesecretlivesofparks.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thesecretlivesofparks.org</a>.Read Ben Goldfarb’s story about Padre Island, “Into the Wind,” in the Spring 2023 issue of National Parks Magazine at <a href="https://www.npca.org/intothewind" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org/intothewind.</a> Read his Summer 2002 story, “Troubled Waters,” at <a href="https://www.npca.org/troubledwaters" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org/troubledwaters.</a>National Parks magazine is a beautiful award-winning quarterly publication and an exclusive benefit of membership in the National Parks Conservation Association. Start your subscription at <a href="http://npca.org/subscribe" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org/subscribe</a>.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks.Learn more and join us at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org.</a>

Behind the Scenes at Padre Island

Winter is often a time when we hunker down, shield ourselves from the cold, and sleep off the dark evenings. But it can also be an ideal time to visit parks, once we find a little motivation to turn off Netflix, put on a coat and venture outside.In this episode, host Jennifer Errick turns to some of her favorite outdoor enthusiasts — her colleagues at the National Parks Conservation Association — for inspiration on where they love to travel in winter. She speaks with Michael Jamison, campaign director for NPCA's Northern Rockies Regional Office, on skating wild ice and finding meditative bliss on rigorous mountain climbs; Theresa Pierno, president and CEO, on the joys of toasting Yellowstone at negative-20 degrees; Miché Lozano, Arizona program manager, on the heritage area that changed their life and career; Cassidy Jones, senior outreach and engagement manager, on the romantic challenge that cleared up a misconception at Acadia National Park; and John Adornato on one of the most remote and idyllic stargazing excursions on the East Coast and how to plan a trip there.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton, Vanessa Pius and Linda Coutant.Original theme music by Chad Fischer.Special thanks to the staff who contributed their stories, including Southern Appalachian Director Jeff Hunter, whose story we ultimately did not include.Learn more about this podcast and listen to the rest of our stories at thesecretlivesofparks.orgThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks.Learn more and join us at npca.org

Winter is often a time when we hunker down, shield ourselves from the cold, and sleep off the dark evenings. But it can also be an ideal time to visit parks, once we find a little motivation to turn off Netflix, put on a coat and venture outside.In this episode, host Jennifer Errick turns to some of her favorite outdoor enthusiasts — her colleagues at the National Parks Conservation Association — for inspiration on where they love to travel in winter. She speaks with Michael Jamison, campaign director for NPCA's Northern Rockies Regional Office, on skating wild ice and finding meditative bliss on rigorous mountain climbs; Theresa Pierno, president and CEO, on the joys of toasting Yellowstone at negative-20 degrees; Miché Lozano, Arizona program manager, on the heritage area that changed their life and career; Cassidy Jones, senior outreach and engagement manager, on the romantic challenge that cleared up a misconception at Acadia National Park; and John Adornato on one of the most remote and idyllic stargazing excursions on the East Coast and how to plan a trip there.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton, Vanessa Pius and Linda Coutant.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer.</a>Special thanks to the staff who contributed their stories, including Southern Appalachian Director Jeff Hunter, whose story we ultimately did not include.Learn more about this podcast and listen to the rest of our stories at <a href="https://thesecretlivesofparks.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thesecretlivesofparks.org</a>The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks.Learn more and join us at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

The Little Jewel Box

Rock Creek Park is one of the oldest national parks in the country. It stretches through the heart of Washington, D.C., and creates a dividing line between neighborhoods to the east and west. The Carter Barron Amphitheater, a performing arts venue in the park, once brought these communities together with a mix of big-name concerts and creative programs — but structural problems forced it to close in 2017. Can a new alliance of advocates restore this unique venue for the next generation?In this episode, host Jennifer Errick interviews Rock Creek Park Superintendent Julia Washburn and Deputy Superintendent Brian Joyner and Rock Creek Conservancy Executive Director Jeanne Braha and Senior Manager of Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives Tony Richardson. They discuss why so many people describe the site as “magical,” some of their favorite performances, the progress that’s taking place to reopen the theater, and ambitious plans for a reopening.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton and Vanessa Pius.Special thanks to Alan Spears and Ed Stierli for their invaluable assistance with this episode.Original theme music by Chad Fischer.Learn more about the Carter Barron Alliance.Learn more about this podcast at thesecretlivesofparks.org.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more and join us at npca.org.

Rock Creek Park is one of the oldest national parks in the country. It stretches through the heart of Washington, D.C., and creates a dividing line between neighborhoods to the east and west. The Carter Barron Amphitheater, a performing arts venue in the park, once brought these communities together with a mix of big-name concerts and creative programs — but structural problems forced it to close in 2017. Can a new alliance of advocates restore this unique venue for the next generation?In this episode, host Jennifer Errick interviews Rock Creek Park Superintendent Julia Washburn and Deputy Superintendent Brian Joyner and Rock Creek Conservancy Executive Director Jeanne Braha and Senior Manager of Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives Tony Richardson. They discuss why so many people describe the site as “magical,” some of their favorite performances, the progress that’s taking place to reopen the theater, and ambitious plans for a reopening.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton and Vanessa Pius.Special thanks to Alan Spears and Ed Stierli for their invaluable assistance with this episode.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer.</a>Learn more about <a href="https://www.rockcreekconservancy.org/carter-barron-alliance" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">the Carter Barron Alliance.</a>Learn more about this podcast at <a href="https://thesecretlivesofparks.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">thesecretlivesofparks.org.</a>The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more and join us at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org.</a>

The Geography That Unites Us

Witness trees were present for pivotal moments in our history but the stories they would tell, if they could, don’t have to die with them―thanks to a fascinating partnership between national park sites and student artists and designers. Host Todd Christopher visits Antietam National Battlefield’s renowned witness tree ― the Burnside Sycamore ― with natural resources manager Joe Calzarette, explores The Witness Tree Project’s unique mashup of history and design with RISD faculty members and founders Dale Broholm and Dan Cavicchi, and learns about the project’s impact from RISD student and participant Esther Akintoye.Original theme music by Chad FischerLearn more about The Witness Tree Project and view galleries of the objects created by student artists at witnesstreeproject.org.The Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; HostJennifer Errick – Producer &amp; HostBev Stanton – Online ProducerThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org

Witness trees were present for pivotal moments in our history but the stories they would tell, if they could, don’t have to die with them―thanks to a fascinating partnership between national park sites and student artists and designers. Host Todd Christopher visits Antietam National Battlefield’s renowned witness tree ― the Burnside Sycamore ― with natural resources manager Joe Calzarette, explores The Witness Tree Project’s unique mashup of history and design with RISD faculty members and founders Dale Broholm and Dan Cavicchi, and learns about the project’s impact from RISD student and participant Esther Akintoye.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer</a>Learn more about The Witness Tree Project and view galleries of the objects created by student artists at <a href="https://www.witnesstreeproject.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">witnesstreeproject.org</a>.The Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; Host Jennifer Errick – Producer &amp; Host Bev Stanton – Online ProducerThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

The Giving Trees

Channel Islands National Park and the marine habitat that surrounds it make up one of the most biodiverse coastal regions in the world, with a long and rich cultural history. It’s the traditional home of the Chumash people, and members of these seafaring Tribes have been working for decades to preserve their lands and waters from drilling, development and other threats. After a devastating explosion at an oil well in 1969 devastated birds and marine life along the coast, the Chumash and their allies have been seeking formal federal protections in the form of a national marine sanctuary. In this episode, host Jennifer Errick interviews guests Violet Sage Walker, Chairwoman of the Northern Chumash Tribal Council and nominator for the proposed sanctuary; Sarah Barmeyer, Deputy Vice President of Conservation Programs for the National Parks Conservation Association; and Paul Michel, Regional Policy Coordinator for the West Coast Office of National Marine Sanctuaries at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. They discuss some of the reasons this region is so special, what could be included in a proposed national marine sanctuary, and how Tribal members might remain involved in managing these lands and waters after the designation.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher and Bev Stanton.Original theme music by Chad Fischer.Learn more about the proposed sanctuary at chumashsanctuary.org.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org

Channel Islands National Park and the marine habitat that surrounds it make up one of the most biodiverse coastal regions in the world, with a long and rich cultural history. It’s the traditional home of the Chumash people, and members of these seafaring Tribes have been working for decades to preserve their lands and waters from drilling, development and other threats. After a devastating explosion at an oil well in 1969 devastated birds and marine life along the coast, the Chumash and their allies have been seeking formal federal protections in the form of a national marine sanctuary. In this episode, host Jennifer Errick interviews guests Violet Sage Walker, Chairwoman of the Northern Chumash Tribal Council and nominator for the proposed sanctuary; Sarah Barmeyer, Deputy Vice President of Conservation Programs for the National Parks Conservation Association; and Paul Michel, Regional Policy Coordinator for the West Coast Office of National Marine Sanctuaries at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. They discuss some of the reasons this region is so special, what could be included in a proposed national marine sanctuary, and how Tribal members might remain involved in managing these lands and waters after the designation.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher and Bev Stanton.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer</a>.Learn more about the proposed sanctuary at <a href="https://chumashsanctuary.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">chumashsanctuary.org</a>.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="http://npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

Making Things Whole

Unusual stories from some of America’s most beloved and inspirational places — our national parks.

National parks are extraordinary places. At The Secret Lives of Parks, we meet people who know and love them, and we share their remarkable stories. Listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.

The Secret Lives of Parks: 2022 trailer

This week marks 67 years since the trial of Emmett Till’s murderers, a miscarriage of justice that focused the attention of the world on the tiny town of Sumner, Mississippi, galvanized international outrage and grief, and sparked leaders of the Civil Rights Movement to act. Today, advocates want to see the courthouse where the trial took place preserved as a national park site and want to continue to use the story of the Till tragedy as a way to facilitate conversations around race and racism and further healing in the community and beyond.Host Jennifer Errick features insights from Alan Spears, NPCA Senior Director of Cultural Resources; Benjamin Saulsberry, Public Engagement and Museum Education Director for the Emmett Till Interpretive Center; and Dr. Percy Washington, educator and pastor of the Sweet Canaan Church of God in Christ, on the history of this shocking hate crime, what the culture was like in Mississippi before and after the tragedy, and how advocates now are preserving Till’s story and using it to work toward truth and justice.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton and Kyle Groetzinger. Additional assets by Eric Barese and Jeff Taylor.Original theme music by Chad Fischer.Learn more about the Emmett Till Interpretive Center at Emmett-Till.org.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org

This week marks 67 years since the trial of Emmett Till’s murderers, a miscarriage of justice that focused the attention of the world on the tiny town of Sumner, Mississippi, galvanized international outrage and grief, and sparked leaders of the Civil Rights Movement to act. Today, advocates want to see the courthouse where the trial took place preserved as a national park site and want to continue to use the story of the Till tragedy as a way to facilitate conversations around race and racism and further healing in the community and beyond.Host Jennifer Errick features insights from Alan Spears, NPCA Senior Director of Cultural Resources; Benjamin Saulsberry, Public Engagement and Museum Education Director for the Emmett Till Interpretive Center; and Dr. Percy Washington, educator and pastor of the Sweet Canaan Church of God in Christ, on the history of this shocking hate crime, what the culture was like in Mississippi before and after the tragedy, and how advocates now are preserving Till’s story and using it to work toward truth and justice.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with help from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton and Kyle Groetzinger. Additional assets by Eric Barese and Jeff Taylor.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer.</a>Learn more about the Emmett Till Interpretive Center at <a href="https://www.emmett-till.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Emmett-Till.org</a>.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

Telling the Truth

How far would you go to save a place you love? For Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas, who was incensed by a proposal to pave his beloved C&amp;O Canal into a parkway, the answer was all the way. Host Todd Christopher explores the media sensation that was the Douglas protest hike of 1954 and speaks with Mike Darzi and Carol Ivory, co-chairs of the epic One Day Hike where a new generation of park enthusiasts now goes the distance every April.Original theme music by Chad Fischer“The Canal Song” was performed by Michael ClemThe Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; HostJennifer Errick – Producer &amp; HostBev Stanton – Online ProducerThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org

How far would you go to save a place you love? For Supreme Court Justice William O. Douglas, who was incensed by a proposal to pave his beloved C&amp;O Canal into a parkway, the answer was all the way. Host Todd Christopher explores the media sensation that was the Douglas protest hike of 1954 and speaks with Mike Darzi and Carol Ivory, co-chairs of the epic One Day Hike where a new generation of park enthusiasts now goes the distance every April.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer</a>“The Canal Song” was performed by <a href="https://michaelclem.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Michael Clem</a>The Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; Host Jennifer Errick – Producer &amp; Host Bev Stanton – Online ProducerThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="https://www.npca.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

A Walk on the Wild Side

One of the most remarkable figures in American history was born into slavery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore in March 1822. No one could have predicted the incredible life that this girl, Harriet Tubman, would go on to lead. On the eve of Tubman’s 200th birthday, host Jennifer Errick explores what this American legend was really like and what we can learn at some of the park sites that interpret her history. Guests include Alan Spears, senior director for cultural resources at the National Parks Conservation Association; Dana Paterra, park manager at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center; Kate Clifford Larson, American historian and Tubman biographer; and Diane Miller, program manager for the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom with the National Park Service. Learn more about Harriet Tubman’s early history and download audio tour information on the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway website at https://harriettubmanbyway.org/; learn about Tubman’s namesake park on Maryland’s Eastern Shore at https://www.nps.gov/hatu/index.htm; and learn about the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program at https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1205/index.htm. Original theme music by [Chad Fischer](https://www.chadfischermusic.com/). Sound effects by Ismael Gama Jr. This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with moral and technical support from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton and Vanessa Pius. The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org.

One of the most remarkable figures in American history was born into slavery on Maryland’s Eastern Shore in March 1822. No one could have predicted the incredible life that this girl, Harriet Tubman, would go on to lead. On the eve of Tubman’s 200th birthday, host Jennifer Errick explores what this American legend was really like and what we can learn at some of the park sites that interpret her history. Guests include Alan Spears, senior director for cultural resources at the National Parks Conservation Association; Dana Paterra, park manager at the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad State Park and Visitor Center; Kate Clifford Larson, American historian and Tubman biographer; and Diane Miller, program manager for the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom with the National Park Service. Learn more about Harriet Tubman’s early history and download audio tour information on the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway website at <a href="https://harriettubmanbyway.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://harriettubmanbyway.org/</a>; learn about Tubman’s namesake park on Maryland’s Eastern Shore at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/hatu/index.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.nps.gov/hatu/index.htm</a>; and learn about the Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1205/index.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.nps.gov/orgs/1205/index.htm</a>. Original theme music by [Chad Fischer](<a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.chadfischermusic.com/</a>). Sound effects by Ismael Gama Jr. This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with moral and technical support from Todd Christopher, Bev Stanton and Vanessa Pius. The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="http://npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>.

An American Hero Turns 200

At least 41 million people in the United States, more than one in eight, live with some kind of disability, and some estimates put this figure even higher. For those who may be grappling with anxiety, fatigue, pain and other chronic conditions, the idea of encountering physical hurdles on a trip can be enough to avoid a park altogether, causing people to lose out on the kinds of life-changing experiences that so many of us take for granted. Host Jennifer Errick explores some of the factors that go into accessibility planning and how to be welcoming to people of different ability levels with guests Syren Nagakyrie, activist and founder of Disabled Hikers; Jeff Doryland, deputy facility manager and accessibility coordinator at Olympic National Park; and Jeremy Buzzell, manager of accessibility for the National Park Service. Visit the Disabled Hikers website at https://disabledhikers.com. Learn about accessibility at Olympic National Park and get detailed descriptions of the park's front-country trails at https://parkb.it/olympicaccess. Explore accessibility features across the National Park System at https://www.nps.gov/subjects/accessibility/. Learn about Syren Nagakyrie's upcoming book, "The Disabled Hikers Guide to Western Washington and Oregon.Original theme music by Chad Fischer.Sound effects by Jeff Rice.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with moral and technical support from Todd Christopher and Bev Stanton.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org.

At least 41 million people in the United States, more than one in eight, live with some kind of disability, and some estimates put this figure even higher. For those who may be grappling with anxiety, fatigue, pain and other chronic conditions, the idea of encountering physical hurdles on a trip can be enough to avoid a park altogether, causing people to lose out on the kinds of life-changing experiences that so many of us take for granted. Host Jennifer Errick explores some of the factors that go into accessibility planning and how to be welcoming to people of different ability levels with guests Syren Nagakyrie, activist and founder of Disabled Hikers; Jeff Doryland, deputy facility manager and accessibility coordinator at Olympic National Park; and Jeremy Buzzell, manager of accessibility for the National Park Service. Visit the Disabled Hikers website at <a href="https://disabledhikers.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://disabledhikers.com</a>. Learn about accessibility at Olympic National Park and get detailed descriptions of the park's front-country trails at <a href="https://parkb.it/olympicaccess" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://parkb.it/olympicaccess</a>. Explore accessibility features across the National Park System at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/accessibility/index.htm" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.nps.gov/subjects/accessibility/</a>. Learn about Syren Nagakyrie's upcoming book, <a href="https://rowman.com/ISBN/9781493057856/The-Disabled-Hiker%E2%80%99s-Guide-to-Western-Washington-and-Oregon-Outdoor-Adventures-Accessible-by-Car-Wheelchair-and-Foot-First-Edition" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">"The Disabled Hikers Guide to Western Washington and Oregon</a>.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer.</a>Sound effects by <a href="https://acousticatlas.org/item/875" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jeff Rice</a>.This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with moral and technical support from Todd Christopher and Bev Stanton.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>.

Hiking with Spoons

Hinchliffe Stadium in Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park is the only ballpark in the National Park System — and one of the very few surviving ballparks once used by Negro League baseball teams. But this field of dreams and its rich history were nearly lost to the ages before getting a chance at extra innings. Dr. Ray Doswell, curator of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, Missouri, and Dr. Larry Hogan, author of two books on Negro League history and executive producer of the documentary “Before You Can Say Jackie Robinson,” join host Todd Christopher to discuss the significance of Hinchliffe’s past and the promise its restoration holds for the future.Original theme music by Chad FischerPaterson Great Falls audio clip courtesy of the National Park ServiceThe Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; HostJennifer Errick – Producer &amp; HostBev Stanton – Online ProducerThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org

Hinchliffe Stadium in Paterson Great Falls National Historical Park is the only ballpark in the National Park System — and one of the very few surviving ballparks once used by Negro League baseball teams. But this field of dreams and its rich history were nearly lost to the ages before getting a chance at extra innings. Dr. Ray Doswell, curator of the <a href="https://www.nlbm.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Negro Leagues Baseball Museum</a> in Kansas City, Missouri, and Dr. Larry Hogan, author of two books on Negro League history and executive producer of the documentary “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0G29Kpd-Hm0" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Before You Can Say Jackie Robinson</a>,” join host Todd Christopher to discuss the significance of Hinchliffe’s past and the promise its restoration holds for the future.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer</a>Paterson Great Falls audio clip courtesy of the National Park ServiceThe Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; Host Jennifer Errick – Producer &amp; Host Bev Stanton – Online ProducerThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="https://www.npca.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

A Diamond in the Rough

Host Jennifer Errick explores the Tribal-led fight to protect Bears Ears National Monument and what the future of collaboration between Native nations and the U.S. government could mean for public lands with guests Ernie Atencio, Southwest regional director for the National Park Conservation Association; Davina Smith, organizer and consultant for the National Parks Conservation Association, cofounder of Women of Bears Ears, and board member of Grand Staircase-Escalante Partners; and Pat Gonzales-Rogers, executive director for the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition.Watch Davina Smith and other survivors speak about the dark history of Native American boarding schools in the PBS documentary “Unspoken” at https://parkb.it/pbsunspoken. Learn more and find resources for healing from boarding schools and other forms of violence against Native Americans at https://boardingschoolhealing.org/ and https://restoringawcoalition.org/. Read reporting on attempts to open Bears Ears to uranium mining at https://parkb.it/bearsearsreporting. Learn more about the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition at https://bearsearscoalition.org/.Original theme music by Chad FischerThis episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with moral and technical support from Todd Christopher and Bev Stanton.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org

Host Jennifer Errick explores the Tribal-led fight to protect Bears Ears National Monument and what the future of collaboration between Native nations and the U.S. government could mean for public lands with guests Ernie Atencio, Southwest regional director for the National Park Conservation Association; Davina Smith, organizer and consultant for the National Parks Conservation Association, cofounder of Women of Bears Ears, and board member of Grand Staircase-Escalante Partners; and Pat Gonzales-Rogers, executive director for the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition.Watch Davina Smith and other survivors speak about the dark history of Native American boarding schools in the PBS documentary “Unspoken” at <a href="https://parkb.it/pbsunspoken" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://parkb.it/pbsunspoken</a>. Learn more and find resources for healing from boarding schools and other forms of violence against Native Americans at <a href="https://boardingschoolhealing.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://boardingschoolhealing.org/</a> and <a href="https://restoringawcoalition.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://restoringawcoalition.org/</a>. Read reporting on attempts to open Bears Ears to uranium mining at <a href="https://parkb.it/bearsearsreporting" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://parkb.it/bearsearsreporting</a>. Learn more about the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition at <a href="https://bearsearscoalition.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://bearsearscoalition.org/</a>.Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer</a>This episode was produced by Jennifer Errick with moral and technical support from Todd Christopher and Bev Stanton.The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

The Healing Ceremony

This year’s historic fledging of a peregrine falcon at Harpers Ferry ― the first in more than 70 years ― is just the latest chapter in the once-endangered species’ recovery. Host Todd Christopher takes a closer look at how raptor monitoring and reintroduction programs in the parks are making a difference for birds of prey including peregrines and critically endangered California condors. Guests include Mia Parsons, Chief of Resources Management at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, Rolf Gubler, Biologist at Shenandoah National Park, and Wildlife Biologist Gavin Emmons &amp; Condor Program Manager Alacia Welch at Pinnacles National Park. Learn more about the Endangered Species Act and the endangered plants and animals that call national parks home at esa.npca.org. Original theme music by Chad FischerAudio clips courtesy of the National Park Service and Harpers Ferry Park Association The Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; HostJennifer Errick – Producer &amp; HostBev Stanton – Online ProducerIsmael Gama, Jr. – Creative Content Specialist The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org

This year’s historic fledging of a peregrine falcon at Harpers Ferry ― the first in more than 70 years ― is just the latest chapter in the once-endangered species’ recovery. Host Todd Christopher takes a closer look at how raptor monitoring and reintroduction programs in the parks are making a difference for birds of prey including peregrines and critically endangered California condors. Guests include Mia Parsons, Chief of Resources Management at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, Rolf Gubler, Biologist at Shenandoah National Park, and Wildlife Biologist Gavin Emmons &amp; Condor Program Manager Alacia Welch at Pinnacles National Park. Learn more about the Endangered Species Act and the endangered plants and animals that call national parks home at <a href="esa.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">esa.npca.org</a>. Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer</a>Audio clips courtesy of the National Park Service and Harpers Ferry Park Association The Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; Host Jennifer Errick – Producer &amp; Host Bev Stanton – Online Producer Ismael Gama, Jr. – Creative Content Specialist The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

Learning to Fly

At Grand Canyon National Park, explorers discovered a trove of lifelike bat fossils that provide a genetic record spanning 30,000 years. Experts reflect on why these particular remains are so rare and special, and how the National Park Service has spent years documenting and learning from the ancient life that surrounds us in our parks. Host Jennifer Errick explores the issue with guests Shawn Thomas, volunteer caver and Subterranean Team Manager at Bat Conservation International; Vincent Santucci, Senior Paleontologist and Paleontology Program Coordinator for the National Park Service; and Dr. Carol Chambers, Professor of Wildlife Ecology at Northern Arizona University. Learn more about National Fossil Day at https://www.nps.gov/subjects/fossilday/ and read about other recent significant findings in our national parks at https://www.npca.org/prehistoricsharks and https://www.npca.org/fossiltales. Original theme music by Chad Fischer Night sounds at the Grand Canyon by Jeremy TreglerThe Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by:Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; HostJennifer Errick – Producer &amp; HostBev Stanton – Online ProducerIsmael Gama, Jr. – Creative Content SpecialistThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org

At Grand Canyon National Park, explorers discovered a trove of lifelike bat fossils that provide a genetic record spanning 30,000 years. Experts reflect on why these particular remains are so rare and special, and how the National Park Service has spent years documenting and learning from the ancient life that surrounds us in our parks. Host Jennifer Errick explores the issue with guests Shawn Thomas, volunteer caver and Subterranean Team Manager at Bat Conservation International; Vincent Santucci, Senior Paleontologist and Paleontology Program Coordinator for the National Park Service; and Dr. Carol Chambers, Professor of Wildlife Ecology at Northern Arizona University. Learn more about National Fossil Day at <a href="https://www.nps.gov/subjects/fossilday/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.nps.gov/subjects/fossilday/</a> and read about other recent significant findings in our national parks at <a href="https://www.npca.org/prehistoricsharks" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.npca.org/prehistoricsharks</a> and <a href="https://www.npca.org/fossiltales" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.npca.org/fossiltales</a>. Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer</a> Night sounds at the Grand Canyon by <a href="https://archive.org/details/GrandCanyon03MAY2015" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Jeremy Tregler</a>The Secret Lives of Parks is brought to you by:Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; Host Jennifer Errick – Producer &amp; Host Bev Stanton – Online Producer Ismael Gama, Jr. – Creative Content SpecialistThe Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="https://www.npca.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

The Undiscovered Cave

Host Todd Christopher explores the past and future of art in the national parks with Tanya Ortega, founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation, and shares works by former national park artists-in-residence including Matt Venuti, Rachel Panitch, Ben Cosgrove and Kurt Wheeler. Original theme music by Chad FischerAudio clips courtesy of the National Park Service Season One of The Secret Lives of Parks was brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; HostJennifer Errick – Producer &amp; HostIsmael Gama, Jr. – Creative Content SpecialistBeverley Stanton – Online Producer The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at npca.org

Host Todd Christopher explores the past and future of art in the national parks with Tanya Ortega, founder of the National Parks Arts Foundation, and shares works by former national park artists-in-residence including Matt Venuti, Rachel Panitch, Ben Cosgrove and Kurt Wheeler. Original theme music by <a href="https://www.chadfischermusic.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Chad Fischer</a>Audio clips courtesy of the National Park Service Season One of The Secret Lives of Parks was brought to you by: Todd Christopher – Producer &amp; Host Jennifer Errick – Producer &amp; Host Ismael Gama, Jr. – Creative Content Specialist Beverley Stanton – Online Producer The Secret Lives of Parks is a production of the National Parks Conservation Association. With more than 1.6 million members and supporters, NPCA is the nation’s only independent, nonpartisan advocacy organization dedicated to protecting national parks. Learn more at <a href="https://www.npca.org/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">npca.org</a>

Expecting the Unexpected

The Secret Lives of Parks

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