What To Know
- The NPS manages Glacier National Park under the authority of the Organic Act of 1916, which established the National Park Service.
- The park is located within the traditional territory of the Blackfeet people, and the tribe has played an active role in the park’s history and management.
- The Blackfeet Nation has co-management agreements with the NPS for certain areas of the park, and the tribe is involved in cultural programs and educational initiatives within the park.
The United States government, through the National Park Service (NPS), holds the title to Glacier National Park. The park was established on May 11, 1910, as the tenth national park in the United States. The NPS manages and protects the park’s natural and cultural resources for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations.
History of Glacier National Park Ownership
The land that now comprises Glacier National Park was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Blackfeet, Kootenai, and Salish. In the late 19th century, as settlers and miners moved into the area, tensions arose over land use and access.
In 1897, President Grover Cleveland established the Blackfeet Indian Reservation, which included a portion of what is now Glacier National Park. However, the boundaries of the reservation were later reduced, and the land that is now the park was ceded to the United States government.
Land Acquisition and Management
The land for Glacier National Park was acquired through a combination of purchases, donations, and land exchanges. The NPS has worked to consolidate land ownership within the park boundaries, and today, the park covers an area of approximately 1,583,000 acres.
The NPS manages Glacier National Park under the authority of the Organic Act of 1916, which established the National Park Service. The park’s management plan outlines the goals and objectives for protecting and preserving the park’s resources, including its wildlife, forests, glaciers, and cultural heritage.
Private Land Ownership within Glacier National Park
While the vast majority of Glacier National Park is owned by the U.S. government, there are a few private inholdings within the park boundaries. These inholdings were established before the park was created and are typically small, isolated parcels of land.
The NPS has a policy of acquiring private inholdings within Glacier National Park when they become available. This helps to consolidate land ownership and protect the park’s resources.
Glacier National Park and the Blackfeet Nation
The Blackfeet Nation maintains a close relationship with Glacier National Park. The park is located within the traditional territory of the Blackfeet people, and the tribe has played an active role in the park’s history and management.
The Blackfeet Nation has co-management agreements with the NPS for certain areas of the park, and the tribe is involved in cultural programs and educational initiatives within the park.
Benefits of U.S. Ownership of Glacier National Park
There are many benefits to the U.S. government owning Glacier National Park. These benefits include:
- Protection of natural resources: The NPS manages Glacier National Park to protect its natural resources, including its wildlife, forests, glaciers, and water quality.
- Public access: The park is open to the public for recreation and enjoyment. Visitors can hike, camp, fish, and boat in the park.
- Economic benefits: Glacier National Park is a major tourist destination, and tourism generates significant economic benefits for the local and regional economy.
- Cultural preservation: The park preserves the cultural heritage of the Blackfeet Nation and other Native American tribes that have lived in the area for centuries.
Final Note: Glacier National Park as a National Treasure
Glacier National Park is a unique and irreplaceable national treasure. The U.S. government’s ownership of the park ensures that its natural and cultural resources will be protected and preserved for future generations.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Who originally inhabited the land that is now Glacier National Park?
The land that is now Glacier National Park was originally inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Blackfeet, Kootenai, and Salish.
2. When was Glacier National Park established?
Glacier National Park was established on May 11, 1910, as the tenth national park in the United States.
3. How large is Glacier National Park?
Glacier National Park covers an area of approximately 1,583,000 acres.
4. Are there any private landholdings within Glacier National Park?
Yes, there are a few private inholdings within Glacier National Park. These inholdings were established before the park was created and are typically small, isolated parcels of land.
5. Does the Blackfeet Nation have a role in the management of Glacier National Park?
Yes, the Blackfeet Nation has co-management agreements with the NPS for certain areas of the park, and the tribe is involved in cultural programs and educational initiatives within the park.
