© Dimattia photography

The National Park Foundation is teaming up with Macy's to give people the opportunity to thank moms everywhere - including Mother Earth. From now through Mother's Day, visit www.facebook.com/macys to thank mothers across the globe with a free, personalized Facebook message. For every message that is sent where you select National Park Foundation as your charity of choice, Macy's will donate $5, up to a total of $400,000 in the recipient's honor to the National Park Foundation. You can send up to 10 messages a day.

The event is part of the "Thank-a-Mom" Movement. Find out more about the work of the National Park Foundation and this movement online.

© Lauren Himiak

The National Parks Conservation Association has released a new report about water management in the Colorado River Basin and its impact on five national parks that lie along the Colorado River. The report finds that alterations to the natural state of the river, like major dams and non-native species, and changes in water flow is altering the natural landscapes and cultural heritage found in national parks.

The report examines the relationship between regulation of the Colorado River and Grand Canyon National Park, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Canyonlands National Park, Dinosaur National Monument, and Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park. It also outlines steps that can be taken to reverse some of the challenges facing the river. Read it online now.

© Ian Shive Photography

Back in 2009, I had the pleasure of sitting down with photographer Ian Shive to discuss his book, The National Parks: Our American Landscape. A collection of over 200 stunning images depicting the parks, yet the book felt different than other travel photography books. It was more of an intimate view of the parks, with images of things visitors may have overlooked or missed, and memories that Shive finds hard to forget.

The book has now been released in paperback, so it seemed like a good opportunity to catch up with Shive again and see what he's been up to. Read the interview now!

© Wikimedia Commons

Twilight and Nurse Jackie star Peter Facinelli has partnered with Energizer to raise awareness for National Parks Week!  The actor, who enjoys camping with his three daughters and wife, Jennie Garth, holds the parks close to his heart and enjoys taking the whole family camping.

Facinelli has teamed up with Energizer to help a group of Grand Canyon National Park campers stay connected and powered when camping off the grid with Energizer's latest solar and outdoor products. The event is part of the company's national launch of the now that's positivenergy™ campaign.

As the country celebrates National Park Week, not only can you get into the parks for free but you can also help out simply by texting. Text BUNNY to 27722 to give a $1.00 donation from Energizer to the National Park Foundation. Energizer's goal is to donate $400,000 to the National Park Foundation this spring.