National Academy of Sciences Advisory Committee on Research in the National Parks The Robbins Report

National Academy of Sciences

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
2101 CONSTITUTION AVENUE
WASHINGTON 25, D. C.

August 1, 1963

The Honorable Stewart L. Udall
The Secretary of the Interior
Washington, D. C. 20240

Dear Secretary Udall:

Your letter of April 25, 1962 asked the advice and assistance of the National Academy of Sciences in the planning and organizing of an expanded program of natural history research by the National Park Service. I am pleased to transmit herewith the report of the committee that was appointed by the Academy to respond to that request. Supplemental material is being gathered together in an appendix which will be forwarded to you as soon it is completed.

We have felt a special responsibility in undertaking this task. The challenge of preserving both the beauty and the substance of a significant portion of our environmental heritage, in the interests of this and future generations, is one that calls for the best that those with appropriate knowledge and competence can give. Our committee under the chairmanship of William J. Robbins, has devoted sustained and careful thought to the several aspects of the problem.

Dr. Robbins assures me that the committee members will be glad to discuss with you any parts of their report if you would find that helpful.

Sincerely yours,

Frederick Seitz
President