Public opinion is sought in regards to how to strengthen and invigorate the nation’s National Park System throughout the next 10 years.

The National Park Service, which oversees 390 parks nation-wide, will be hosting a community listening session in collaboration with the Saguaro National Park. Casa Grande Ruins National Monument Superintendent Jason Lott, among other Arizona park officials, are expected to participate in this session.

According to a news release, Dirk Kempthorne, Secretary of the Interior, and National Park Service Director Mary Bomar recently launched a series of listening sessions seeking public suggestions and ideas concerning President George Bush’s National Park Centennial Initiative.

“We will travel the country listening to our fellow citizens who care deeply about our national park,” Secretary Kempthorne said. “This is a time for a thoughtful review of what needs to be done over the next decade, a great opportunity to think big and act boldly to develop a plan to prepare national parks for the future.”

More public sessions are expected to take place around the country during the following three weeks to discuss the President’s proposal to provide up to $3 billion of new private and public investments.

These funds are intended to improve and expand national park conservation, preservation and visitor service programs, a goal advocates want to accomplish by the National Service’s 100^th anniversary in 2016.

The listening session scheduled in Tucson will be conducted in an open house forum on March 28 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the National Park Service's Western Archaeological and Conservation Center, located at 255 N. Commerce Park Loop.

National Park Service superintendents will deliver brief presentations before asking for the public’s input.

Those who plan to attend are asked to focus their comments and concerns on the following questions:

Think of your children and grandchildren enjoying national parks in 2016 and beyond. How do you imagine their visit? What are your hopes and expectations?

What role do you think national parks should play in the lives of Americans and visitors from around the world?

What are the signature projects and programs that you think should be highlighted for completion over the next 10 years?

The public is invited to submit comments on the National Park Centennial Initiative online until March 31 by clicking here.