August 25, 2006, marked the 90th anniversary of the creation of the National Park System. The centennial of the park system is around the corner. With the newly announced Centennial Challenge project in mind, I joined many of my Senate colleagues in sending a letter to President Bush encouraging him to provide the national parks with a strong budget request as the administration prepares its Fiscal Year 2008 budget.

The National Park Service (NPS) has long been one of the most valued and respected government entities. The NPS manages 390 park units, seven regional offices, a central office, and two service centers. Unlike other agencies, the NPS also benefits from over one million volunteer hours per year. It is my hope that the Centennial Challenge project will help the NPS, and its employees and volunteers, continue to fulfill its mission to ensure all can enjoy our Nation's outstanding historic, cultural, and natural heritage now and in the future.