The recent expansion of the Lewis and Clark National Historical Park offers an important opportunity for Americans to rediscover the historic treasures and natural heritage that Lewis and Clark found on their journey 200 years ago (“National park grows by 154 acres,” The Daily Astorian, Monday). Now we must ensure that these special places receive adequate funding and staffing to manage new parklands.

According to a new study, National Parks Along the Lewis and Clark Trail, funding shortfalls limit the park’s ability to conduct new research, explore cultural landscapes and archive the growing museum collection that preserves Lewis and Clark’s expedition to the Pacific Coast. Over the last five years, the annual shortfall of federal funding for America’s national parks has grown from $600 million to more than $800 million – a situation that directly affects the experiences of park visitors and the preservation of our nation’s heritage.

The presidential administration’s new National Park Centennial Challenge has the potential to provide significant new federal funds for the annual needs of the national parks. We look forward to working with the administration and Congress to see this important commitment carried through, so that our country finally can restore the faded glory of America’s national parks, including the lasting legacy of Lewis and Clark.

SEAN SMITH

Seattle