WASHINGTON - The new coalition of Americans for National Parks and several members of Congress recently called for a $280-million increase to the National Park Service's fiscal year 2003 budget to protect the national parks.

"The Golden Gate National Recreation Area in San Francisco and its park partners, such as the Golden Gate National Parks Association, have done a stellar job of augmenting its resources with private funds and volunteers," said House Democratic Whip Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) "Bay Area residents love and support the park. But the park desperately needs more public funds. Congress and the Bush Administration have a responsibility to provide the operating funds needed to protect the resources of the parks and provide visitors with an enriching experience.

Research has shown that, on average, the national parks receive only two-thirds of the funding needed to fulfill their mission. Although Congress has regularly increased the funding to protect these parks, the budget of the National Park Service has failed to keep pace with increased visitation and pollution, and over-development adjacent to the parks, according to the National Parks Conservation Association.

"Our federal budget needs to reflect that we have added new national parks, forests, monuments and heritage areas over the last several years," said Representative Mark Souder (R-Ind.) "Walking the ruins of Mesa Verde, hearing the echoes of the great national debates in Independence Hall, protecting the wilderness habitat of some of God's most remarkable creatures–these are some of the most precious and uniquely American parts of our cultural and natural heritage. It is our responsibility to preserve them for us, for our children, and for our grandchildren."

Other members of Congress calling for more funding for the National Park Service budget include:

Rep. George Miller (D-Calif.)

Rep. Brian Baird (D-Wash.)

Rep. Rush Holt (D-N.J.)

A diverse coalition of 150 businesses, trade associations, government agencies and organizations from across the country, Americans for National Parks is building public demand for park protection. "We need everyone's support," said Americans for National Parks Campaign Director Jennifer Coken, "because there's just too much to lose."

For more information visit the Americans for National Parks Web site at www.americansfornationalparks.org.