National Parks Report 320 Million Annual Visitors Amid Policy Changes

Why it matters locally: Maryland is home to multiple national park sites, including Antietam National Battlefield and Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine, which contribute to the state's tourism and historical preservation efforts. Policy changes regarding park exhibits and construction projects could directly affect the visitor experience and upkeep of these local sites.

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National parks within the United States recorded over 320 million visitors in the past year. Tiernan Sittenfeld, president and CEO of the National Parks Conservation Association, discussed the current conditions of these parklands. Sittenfeld noted policy changes directing revisions to park exhibits. She also identified construction projects initiated by former President Trump that have commenced within park boundaries.