National Park Support Earns Honor for Rep. Gabbard

The Friend of the National Parks Award was given to Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard for her support of national parks during the 113^th Congress by the National Parks Conservation Association, a nonpartisan, non-profit group.

“Hawaiʻi is home to some of the country’s most beautiful and diverse national parks, from the awe-inspiring nature of Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park on Hawaiʻi Island to the incomparable story of Kalaupapa National Historical Park on Molokaʻi,” said Congresswoman Gabbard. “I’m humbled to receive this award as a Friend of the National Parks, and will continue to work to foster educational opportunities and promote protections for Hawaiʻi’s unique natural beauty and cultural resources.”

Clark Bunting, NPCA President and CEO, noted that it is an honor to recognize Congresswoman Gabbard with the award.

“As the 114^thCongress works on policies and funding levels impacting our national parks, I look forward to working with Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard to ensure national parks have safe roadways, are well maintained, and have the resources they need to thrive for their upcoming centennial.”

The NPCA’s Friend of the National Parks Award originated in 1999. It tracked and publicized congressional members’ votes on important park issues.

In order to be eligible for the award, senators are required to vote in favor of national parks on a minimum of two scored bills, while representatives must vote in favor of at least three. Congresswoman Gabbard supported all five bills.