Earth Day activities kick off National Park Week

BLACKSBURG - Kings Mountain National Military Park will kick off National Park Week on Saturday, April 19, with Earth Day activities focusing on "Earth Day Colonial Style."

Living history reenactors will conduct activities and demonstrate skills that utilized natural resources for everyday survival, including use of herbs for medicinal purposes, tanning of hides and natural dyes. "Ben Franklin" will be on hand to discuss numerous natural resource issues of the 18th century.

With spring in the air, the country's 391 national Park Service sites are perfect places to get out and experience the beauty of the season. President Bush has proclaimed April 19-27 as National Park Week and encourages everyone to enjoy the natural wonder and inspirational history found in parks across the country.

The theme of year's National Park Week is "Kids in Parks." About 200 parks will commemorate the second annual Junior Ranger Day on April 26 with plenty of fun-filled activities and special events.

"Our country's national parks provide children with unparalleled opportunities to have fun while learning something new," said National Park Service Director Mary A. Bomar. The "Kids in Parks" theme will continue throughout the year as parks expand and improve youth-oriented ranger programs, educational exhibits and Junior Ranger activities. About 300 National Park Service sites have Junior Ranger programs that encourage children to "Explore-Learn-Protect" national parks.

Kings Mountain National Military Park will present "So You Want to be a Ranger" as the park's emphasis on Junior Ranger Day on Saturday, April 26. Park employees will be at various stations to discuss the many facets of being a National Park Ranger.

All events are free to the public. For more information, contact the park at 864-936-7921.