#USA #Dallas #National Parks #EarthX #Parks Madness

Parks Madness 2025: A Celebration of America's Natural Wonders

The spotlight on public lands has never been brighter. With records showing over 330 million visitors to the national parks in 2024, the urgency to protect these cherished spaces has been amplified, especially amidst recent governmental budget cuts to the National Park Service. To tap into this momentum, Parks Madness 2025 has been launched, offering an exciting platform to engage the public and celebrate both widely-known and lesser-known national parks.

The Bracket Competition

Parks Madness 2025 marks the second edition of this unique bracket-style competition, jointly organized by The Parks Channel and EarthX Media. Fans from all corners of the nation will once again partake by voting for their favorite parks in a series of matchups. Last year's inaugural event garnered national attention, culminating in an epic face-off between Yellowstone National Park and Zion National Park, with Yellowstone taking the crown with a final score of 64-36%.

As Charles Poe, the Co-Founder and CEO of Parks Channel, stated, "Parks Madness is a great opportunity to celebrate some lesser-known sites along with the usual star attractions. We’re thrilled to have EarthX Media on board to bring even more park lovers into the tournament."

Tim Pirrello, the Head of EarthX Media, emphasizes the event's goal of fostering a love for the planet. He remarked, "We’re excited to share programs with viewers about America's national parks. Partnering with The Parks Channel promotes audience engagement by voting in the Parks Madness 2025 bracket competition."

Expanding Horizons

This year’s competition isn't just limited to national parks. In a bid to diversify the competition, the event includes historical monuments, national historic trails, and other iconic sites. Each bracket features its own mascot, such as Bear, Eagle, Bison, and Owl, bringing a fun aspect to the matchups and stimulating lively discussions among participants.

Following its resounding victory, Yellowstone has opted out of this year’s competition to allow the spotlight to shine on other parks that may not get as much attention. This decision opens the door for a new winner to emerge, encouraging fans to explore the many wonders of America’s landscapes.

Key Dates for the Competition

• - Bracket Release and Voting Begins: April 25, 2025, coinciding with Selection Sunday.
• - First Round (Round of 64): April 25 - May 4, with results announced on May 5.
• - Second Round (Round of 32): May 5-8, announced on May 9.
• - Sweet 16: May 9-11, with results on May 12.
• - Elite Eight: May 12-15, announced on May 16.
• - Final Four: May 16-19, with winners declared on May 20.
• - Championship Game: May 20-22, culminating in the announcement of the grand winner on May 23.

About the Organizations Behind the Event

The Parks Channel: A vibrant platform celebrating America’s outdoor spaces, The Parks Channel’s streaming app and mobile-optimized website offer over 500 curated video experiences, rich in geographical data. Visitors can engage with the content, share their park experiences, and collect badges as recognition for their adventures.

EarthX Media Inc.: Founded in 2011, EarthX Media is dedicated to environmental advocacy and sustainability initiatives. Their efforts extend to various programs, including the famous EarthX Expo and a variety of engaging television content. With a reach to over 20 million U.S. households, EarthX focuses on interactive programming that inspires audiences to connect with conservation and ecological awareness.

As we gear up for Parks Madness 2025, it's clear that our national parks are more than just places to visit; they represent the spirit of America, deserving both recognition and protection. Engage with your favorite parks, and join the movement to ensure these treasures remain for future generations to explore and enjoy.