The nation's front yard, frayed, rutted, and overwhelmed by millions of feet and years of neglect, is going to be given a much-needed makeover if the Interior Department can figure out how to raise at least $650 million, and likely quite a bit more.

From time to time the ongoing debate is renewed over whether the National Park Service is supposed to be managing the National Park System primarily for the public's enjoyment, or with an eye on preservation so future generations can also enjoy the parks. What do you think?

You can add pools of oil to the oily residues turning up at Gulf Islands National Seashore from the Deepwater Horizon disaster.

There are so many ways to get enjoyment from the national parks on a daily basis. You can work for the National Park Service, a park concessionaire, or one of the organizations that strives to support the parks. And if you're good at raising funds, the Blue Ridge Parkway Foundation could use you.