In 1916, the United States made a significant commitment to the conservation of its natural landscapes and biodiversity with the establishment of the National Park Service (NPS). The creation of the NPS came as a response to growing concerns about the management and protection of national parks, which had been established individually without a unified strategy. Overseeing these parks was increasingly seen as a national responsibility that required professional oversight. The Organic Act, signed by President Woodrow Wilson, laid the foundation for the NPS, designating the agency's primary role to protect the parks' natural and cultural resources while providing for their enjoyment by the public. The created mandate reflected the dual philosophy of conservation and promoting public access to scenic wonders.The initial focus of the National Park Service included managing iconic sites such as Yellowstone and Yosemite, which were the first national parks in the United States. Besides conservation, the NPS aimed to enhance public understanding and appreciation of these natural treasures through education and sustainable practices. With the establishment of the agency, it initiated the development of regulations, infrastructure improvements, and visitor services crucial for the parks. Congressional funding authorized new projects to improve park facilities while ensuring that ecological integrity remained a top priority. Over the years, the NPS has expanded its reach and capabilities, administering over 400 sites including national parks, monuments, historical parks, and preserves, and dramatically shaping how Americans engage with their landscape and history.