Gettysburg National Military Park (NMP) is set to receive $429,000 in funding through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) to address the impacts of climate change and forest degradation. The IRA, enacted on August 16, 2022, allocates funds to the National Park Service for ecosystem resilience and environmental planning.
The park faces challenges with forest regeneration, which is crucial for ecosystem health, cultural landscape integrity, and local communities. The funding will support the Resilient Forest Initiative, which aims to restore forest ecosystems in Gettysburg NMP and 18 other Northeast national parks. Efforts will include managing invasive plants and planting native tree seedlings to bolster climate change resilience.
Gettysburg NMP is also addressing climate-induced changes, such as frequent stream flooding and shifts in vegetation, impacting the preservation of its Civil War battlefield landscape. A comprehensive spatial database will be developed to integrate climate projections and cultural resource data, aiding in the protection of the park’s resources.
Acting Superintendent Kristina Heister emphasized the importance of the IRA funding in sustaining the park’s landscape and visitor experience amidst various environmental stressors. The National Park Service, with over 20,000 employees, continues to work on preserving America’s natural and cultural heritage, with more information available on its website and social media platforms.
Source: Gettysburg National Military Park