The "National Parks" series is dedicated to one jewel of the natural wonders of North America in each episode. For one year each, the filmmakers accompany the rangers and scientists who have dedicated themselves to the preservation and exploration of this unique nature in the US or Canada.
Since 1916, the American national parks - as well as most of the other sites and areas worthy of protection - have been managed by the National Park Service (NPS). The Service states "conservation, preservation and recreation" as its primary goals. Its task is more topical than ever.
The parks are threatened, especially by climate change: in Alaska, glaciers are melting, in Florida, protected species are being displaced by immigrant animals, and in California, rare rodents freeze to death because they are not sufficiently prepared for winter due to warmer temperatures.
