August 13, 2026: History of Alaska's National Parks
Monthly Meetings and Programs
Meeting location has changed to Baldridge Hall, Montrose United Methodist Church, 647 South 1st Street. All are welcome and there is no charge, though donations are gratefully appreciated. For additional information or to let us know that you would like to do a presentation, please contact Caroline Evans via the BCAS email.
Summer 2026 Programs
Lisa Eckert: “History of Alaska’s National Parks”
Date: Thursday, August 13, 2026
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Baldridge Hall, Montrose United Methodist Church, 647 South 1st Street, Montrose
On the historical national park (NP) timeline in Alaska, 1980 is a pivotal year. That year, the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act (ANILCA) was signed into law. Considered the Louisiana Purchase of the American conservation movement, it more than doubled the size of the National Park and National Wildlife Systems. Beginning in 1910, the establishment of Sitka National Monument and four other units set up the foundation of what was to come.
“Touch the earth, reach the sky,” is Lisa Eckert’s personal mantra as she experiences the great outdoors. Lisa’s 37-year career as a National Park Service ranger and manager took her to 14 NP units throughout the country including five years at Denali NP & Preserve. Additionally, she was selected for an international assignment in Croatia, managed the national NPS training center located at the Grand Canyon, and was superintendent at Colorado National Monument and Bryce Canyon NP, among other sites. She is retired in Grand Junction.