Last year was the 100th anniversary of the National Park Service. However, the national park idea began in the early 19th century when George Catlin recommended a "nations park" be set aside for the conservation of the landscape and for the enjoyment of the American people. This idea has gone through many iterations since Catlin's time. This class will examine the genesis of the National Parks in America, discuss some of the most influential thinkers related to conservation and preservation, evaluate the current state of and identify threats to the Parks, and discuss how future generations may or may not embrace National Parks. Ryan Sharp will be the course instructor. He is an assistant professor at Kansas State University where he teaches and conducts research on parks and protected area management.

This class will additionally be held, Wednesday, Feb. 15 and  22 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The UFM Program Coordinator, Charlene Brownson, will be at Meadowlark Hills from 10 to 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 6, in the Living Room for spring Osher registration. If you need help with registration or questions answered, you are encouraged to stop by. Please see the Osher registration form, located at the Hospitality Desk or online at www.osher.ku.edu, for a complete listing of classes. For more information call UFM at (785) 539-8763.