Watch Second Century Stewardship: Acadia National Park

Second Century Stewardship: Acadia National Park is a 2016 documentary film that chronicles the efforts of various organizations and scientists to study and protect the environment of Acadia National Park in Maine. The film was produced by the National Park Foundation and its purpose was to promote public awareness of the ecological issues facing the park and to encourage stewardship of its natural resources.

The documentary opens with sweeping views of Acadia National Park's rugged coastline and iconic landmarks such as Cadillac Mountain and Thunder Hole. These stunning visuals are set to a score of ambient music, which sets a serene and contemplative tone for the film. As the camera pans over the landscape, viewers are introduced to the various people who work to protect the park, from park rangers to scientists.

One of the main themes of the film is the impact of climate change on Acadia National Park. The documentary highlights the scientific research being conducted to understand how the park's ecosystems are changing due to rising temperatures and increasing acidity levels in the ocean. We see scientists collecting data on the behavior of marine creatures such as lobsters, as well as monitoring the distribution of plants and insects in the park.

The filmmakers also focus on the efforts being made to conserve the park's resources and promote sustainable practices. We see park rangers working to preserve trails and natural habitats, and visitors being educated on ways to reduce their impact on the environment. The film celebrates the many volunteers and nonprofit organizations dedicated to preserving the park, such as Friends of Acadia, a nonprofit group that works to support scientific research, restore habitats, and improve park facilities.

Throughout the film, the importance of balancing the needs of the environment with the needs of the community is emphasized. The park is an important source of recreation and tourism, and many local businesses rely on it for their livelihood. But as climate change and human activities continue to threaten the park's resources, finding this balance becomes increasingly difficult. The filmmakers present multiple perspectives on how to manage the park sustainably, from protecting wildlife habitats to limiting the number of visitors.

Second Century Stewardship: Acadia National Park is a beautifully shot and thought-provoking documentary that highlights the importance of preserving our natural resources in the face of climate change. Through interviews with scientists, park rangers, and volunteers, the filmmakers present a compelling argument for the need to protect acadia, and showcase the innovative technologies and management strategies being used to do so. By weaving together science, history, and personal stories, the film engages viewers in the urgency and complexity of environmental conservation, leaving them with a newfound appreciation for the beauty and fragility of Acadia National Park.

Second Century Stewardship: Acadia National Park is a 2016 documentary with a runtime of 41 minutes.