National Mall and Memorial Parks

A lack of money, nearly $700 million, has left National Park Service crews are far behind in caring for the maintained landscape of the National Park System, the battlefields, the campgrounds, even the historic orchards that can be found in some parks and the trails that wind through the underground of Mammoth Cave National Park.

In an effort to provide clarity to First Amendment demonstrations and special event permit regulations in Washington, D.C., the National Park Service is seeking public comment on proposed revisions to Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations, section 7.96 for the National Mall, President’s Park and other national parks in the Washington, D.C. area. The Park Service says the modifications would maintain opportunities for people to hold special events and exercise their right to demonstrate while outlining clear parameters that protect the iconic landmarks, views and grounds for use and enjoyment of citizens and visitors from around the globe.

The nearly $12 billion maintenance backlog hanging like an albatross around the neck of the National Park Service is impacting visitor access in many parts of the National Park System.

With March Madness here, and office pools under way, perhaps there should be a pool for when the cherry trees on the National Mall will reach peak bloom? The National Park Service thinks it will arrive between March 27-31.