Requiem for the National Parks

Twas the day to protect national parks, when all through the USA
Wildlife and natural wonders were stirring, inspiring places must stay
Teddy Roosevelt said the wilderness must be preserved with care
In hopes that treasures of landscapes would always be there
The rare beautiful animals were nestled in lakes, seashores, and caves
While wide open spaces certainly must be saved
And for millions of Americans it is the scene of a family vacation
Vital green space is worth preservation

When out in remote regions arose unspoiled land,
People sprang to natural amusement parks first hand
Away from intrusions of everyday life
Sunrises, whispering breezes and glorious mountains take away strife
The leisure activities improve moods and calm stress
Guided tours and walks in mid-day are best
When, wildlife codes should be obeyed
Flowers, bird’s eggs, logs and bush rocks must stay where they stay
Leave your pets at home, so lively and quick
Following National Park’s fire regulations aren’t a trick

More rapid than ever rubbish must be put in a bin
National Parks are owned by all to win
Now Yellowstone! Now Yosemite! Now Bryce and Grand Canyon!
On Arches! On Acadia! On Everglades and Zion
To the top of the earth, the top of the sky
Preservation! Preservation! Preservation we cry!

National Parks Recreational Programs keep us physically fit
Biking, hiking, and swimming, don’t let us sit
So plant native plants local to the land
Grasses, flowers, shrubs and trees reinvest with a hand
And then use public transportation while going to the park
The air pollution from cars and trucks will be put in the dark
As we reduce, reuse, recycle we turn the parks around
Critical wildlife habitat will abound
National parks and symbols don’t belong to one
Protecting habitats permanently in national parks provides fun!

*Kelsey Fosstveit was one of the honorable mention winners of the National Parks Essay Contest. She is from Mountainville, NY.