Talk of the Towns 9/13/19: Acadia National Park: It’s Mission, Programs and Challenges

Producer/Host: Ron Beard Studio Engineer: Amy Browne What is the long-observed inherent tension in the park service mission and how does that play out in Acadia? What is this summer’s experience? What is the role of interpretation for the park service and how does that take form in Acadia? What are Acadia’s best loved traditional interpretive programs and what would a visitor from earlier times be surprised to find in today’s array? How do you link science and research into interpretive programs? How do interpretive programs help create an ethos for how people relate to their environment, and in particular to the natural resources of Acadia? What is the role of Friends of Acadia… how was Friends created… is there a parallel between Acadia’s creation story and how FOA resonates with year-round and summer residents? What were some past successes? What are your signature programs now? What is the FOA role in advocating for Acadia in Washington? Acadia, like most national parks, is highly visited… and for years, park planners have worked on plans that will moderate the impact of so many visitors moving around the park… talk about the current transportation plan and where you are in the process… what options are you exploring and what changes are likely? Guests: Kevin Schneider, Superintendent, Acadia National Park Laura Cohen, Chief of Interpretation, Acadia National Park David MacDonald, President, Friends of Acadia