Acadia Center for the Environment Proposal for the Establishment of a Learning Center at Schoodic Point Acadia National Park

Haertel, Paul

'The Center is one of several new NPS-sponsored initiatives proposed for the facilities at the Schoodic Point navy base. Other park operational and non-profit activities will also be established at the base; proposed uses are being evaluated as part of ongoing planning for future NPS use of the navy base. Because the NPS will not be able to take on additional management responsibilities at the base without additional funding, we are assuming that a portion of the renovation and annual operational costs for the Center will be included in any new congressional appropriations made to ACAD.' 'Mission Statement: The center will promote science and scholarship within the National Park system while informing and educating students of all ages about important natural and cultural conservation issues and the application of research results. It will be a meeting place for the interdiciplinary and multi-agency exploration and learning using the park as a living classroom. Participants of the Center will gain a greater understanding for the park's mission, enhanced appreciation for the role of science in preserving national parks and addresssing conservation issues, and increase awareness of outdoor ethics to protect park resources and visitor axperiences.' To follow is the full proposal for the development of the facilities and programs as well as partnerships and operational issues. Appendices provide outlined research priorities, landscape themes, letters of support for the project, and a budget. /STUDY LOCATIONS:/ /ACADIA NATIONAL PARK/SCHOODIC PENINSULA/Schoodic Point/