Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park in Redwood National and State Parks/Rebecca Latson file
What a year 2023 has been.
Our writers have brought you stories from across the National Park System that informed, educated in some cases, and brought wonderment. Or, in the case of Rebecca Latson's wonderful photographs and columns (that's her shot above of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park in Redwood National and State Parks), prompted you to add a new destination to your to-do list.
When folks have asked why I didn't opt for retirement next week, my answer has been that there are more stories from the National Park System that need to be told.
And, thanks to the more than 200 readers and listeners who became first-time donors in the past two months, the Traveler will enter 2024 with the revenues needed to keep us going for another six months.
It’s a wonderful show of support that reflects not only great interest in how to enjoy the National Park System and understand how it is being managed, but also in the value of editorially independent journalism. Between the loss of news organizations and the growth of AI-generated content, the role of journalists dedicated to their craft becomes increasingly important. In the realm of national parks, the Traveler has been able to expand its coverage of national parks and protected areas unlike any other media organization thanks to our readers and listeners.
For those who have made a donation, my thanks again. For those who are considering one, where else can you find such unique coverage on a daily basis? Your donation helps as we work to ensure the Traveler endures.
Here's hoping you'll have a great 2024, one filled with relaxation, rejuvenation, and inspiration during your trips into the park system.
Comments
It's so good to see that you and your staff will carry on!! Thank you all for your dedication and hard work covering things for us.
is there some reason you dont have ads like every other web site ? If it is because you are a non profit its time to change . Every where you go on internet there is ads . I had given $100 to help where is ads for rei , target , walmart , all the other companies who would want out eyes to click on thier ads ? You wont make it after after 6 months unless you get pop up ads
This is GOOD news!
But when you finally decide to retire, Kurt, there HAS to be SOMEONE out there in this big confused world who is capable of replacing you. Maybe, if we try hard, we can find them.
You're probably right, stev.
But sometimes, the people who provide money to get their ads published, seek some kind of editorial control. Is that liable to be a problem? However, there are also some outfits that may be reputable enough to keep their paws off.
We've made a conscious decision not to clutter the site with pop-up ads. If companies believe in the national parks and our work, there are other opportunities they can reach our audience and support the Traveler without annoying pop-ups.
Kudos to the NP Traveler and thanks for all your wonderful stories. So appreciate your stories and they really do enrich the lives of all of us who love the National Parks. You really make us appreciate them more than you know.