Native American youths complete Glen Canyon project

GLEN CANYON NATIONAL RECREATION AREA — The National Park Service has successfully launched Restoring Natural and Cultural Balance along the San Juan River.

The project engages underserved Native American youths in natural and cultural stewardship activities along the San Juan River located within Glen Canyon National Recreation Area and the Navajo Indian Reservation.

Between July 21 and Aug. 5, 25 Native American youths with 11 adult participants completed invasive non-native plant control, native seed collection and wildlife monitoring. They also engaged in cultural heritage activities, including traditional ceremonies and preparation of traditional Native American foods. 

The San Juan restoration project brings together Native American youths and Glen Canyon National Recreation Area staff in activities aimed at restoring connections between natural and cultural resources.

Funding for the project comes from a National Park Foundation Impact Grant. The National Park Foundation, in partnership with ARAMARK through the Yawkey Foundation, the Fernandez Pave the Way Foundation and the History Channel, awarded more than $500,000 in impact grants to 62 national parks across the country.