The National Heritage Area program began in 1984 when Congress established the Illinois & Michigan Canal National Heritage Area, the first of its kind. Today, more than 60 National Heritage Areas across the United States celebrate places where historic, cultural, and natural resources come together to tell nationally important stories. Unlike national parks, Heritage Areas are lived-in landscapes where local organizations and communities work together to preserve and share their heritage.

An NHA is…

A nationally significant landscape recognized by Congress.

A partnership that brings together local communities, organizations, businesses, and governments.

A program that supports historic preservation, education, recreation, and heritage tourism.

Locally governed by a nonprofit board and funded by local contributors.

Eligible to compete for federal matching grants and other funding opportunities.

An NHA is NOT…

An HOA.

A requirement to allow public access to private property.

A national park.

Owned or managed by the National Park Service.

A federal land acquisition program.

A change to private property rights.

A zoning authority or regulatory agency.