To the Point
America's National Parks: Preparing for the Second Century
There are now 58 national parks, and America’s so-called “Greatest Idea” is almost 100 years old. But a lot of America’s favorite natural retreats are in danger. Is there the political will to save them? Also, BP may drill again in the spill reservoir, the US and the bombing of Hiroshima.
By Warren Olney • • 50m ListenThere are now 58 national parks, and America’s so-called “Greatest Idea” is almost 100 years old. But a lot of America’s favorite natural retreats are in danger. Is there the political will to save them? Also, BP may consider drilling again in the spill reservoir, and for the first time since the US dropped the first atom bomb in 1945, a US Ambassador attended this year's annual remembrance in Hiroshima. Will President Obama go there, too? Should the US apologize to Japan?
Banner image: Pedestrians walk through a cloud of dust and diesel exhaust from a transit bus near Yosemite Village, June 16, 2000 in Yosemite National Park, California. Photo: David McNew/Newsmakers/Getty Images
In this episode
3 storiesBP Says It May Drill Again in Spill Reservoir
BP has stopped the flow from its blown-out well, but $4 billion worth of crude oil could still be left in the pool struck by the Deepwater Horizon. Today, BP's Chief Operating Officer Doug Suttles told reporters the company "will have to think about that." Harry Weber, who's in New Orleans with the Associated Press , first raised the issue.
Read the story8 minAfter 65 Years US Finally Attends Hiroshima Memorial
This year, for the first time since 1945, the US ambassador to Japan attended the annual commemoration of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. Should President Obama make a visit? Should the US apologize? What are the effects of nuclear radiation? We hear from Dr.
Read the story36 minThe National Parks: Will America Save Them?
With the sagging economy, Americans are vacationing closer to home and the national parks are taking a beating. But that's been true for a long time. Threats include development near the Everglades , air pollution in the Great Smoky Mountains , and overcrowding in Yosemite Valley . Forget preserving the parks in a "pristine condition."
Read the story7 min
