Based on the provided reference, the National Park Service manages 431 individual units across the United States and its territories.
While the question asks specifically about "national parks," the reference gives the total number of "units" managed by the National Park Service (NPS). It's important to understand that the term "unit" is broader and includes more than just National Parks.
Understanding National Park Service Units
The National Park Service oversees a diverse system of areas, collectively known as "units." These units have various designations, reflecting the different purposes for which they were established and the types of resources they protect.
According to the reference:
The National Park Service manages 431 individual units covering more than 85 million acres in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, and US territories.
This figure of 431 represents the total number of areas managed by the NPS, which includes, but is not limited to, National Parks.
Types of NPS Units
The "units" managed by the NPS fall under many different designations. While the reference provides the total number of units, it does not specify the number for each type. Some common types of NPS units include:
- National Parks: Areas recognized for their significant natural beauty, unique geological features, diverse ecosystems, and recreational opportunities.
- National Monuments: Areas protecting a specific natural or cultural resource, often established by presidential proclamation.
- National Historic Sites: Areas preserving a site associated with a person, event, or era significant to national history.
- National Historical Parks: Larger areas covering multiple historic features or sites related to a broad historical theme.
- National Recreation Areas: Areas surrounding reservoirs or focused on water-based recreation.
- National Seashores: Areas preserving significant coastal resources.
- National Lakeshores: Areas preserving significant freshwater coastal resources.
- National Battlefields / Military Parks: Areas commemorating significant military history.
- National Rivers / Wild and Scenic Rivers: Protecting free-flowing streams and their immediate environments.
Therefore, the number 431 represents the sum of all these different types of areas managed by the National Park Service, not just the number of National Parks.
