Apple kicks off fundraising effort to support US National Parks via Apple Pay donations

There are a number of new ways to support the U.S. national parks. Apple customers are able to send money to the National Park Foundation in a number of ways. For every purchase made using Apple Pay on Apple's website, within the Apple Store mobile app or in any U.S.-based Apple retail store, the company will donate $10 to the National Park Foundation.

The National Parks Foundation will receive proceeds from the donations. Users will be encouraged to engage with content on Apple Maps.

The company will cap its donation once it hits $1 million, which is in line with previous years.

Will Shafroth, the president and CEO of the National Park Foundation, said in a press release that America's national parks are a gift. Apple's partnership and generous commitment help ensure that all people see themselves in national parks and feel welcomed in these places that belong to all of us.

The image was created by Apple.

National Parks-focused content on Apple Maps and Apple Podcasts this year is centered on Indigenous peoples. The National Park Foundation has a list of national parks that can be found in the Apple Maps app. Apple says that the parks include those that highlight Native history and heritage, as well as those that were the ancestral lands for many Indigenous nations.

There is a description of what you can expect to find at the park in the listings. You can learn more about the park by clicking on a link on the website.

Although Apple wants users to engage with this content, it hasn't released a new episode of its National Parks podcast in over two years. The company put together a list of podcasts with Native voices in mind.

Apple Watch users are being encouraged to take part in a new activity challenge on August 27. A virtual achievement and sticker inspired by national parks can be earned by completing a hike, walk, run or wheelchair workout that is equivalent to one mile.

We are proud to partner with the organizations and communities who maintain our parks and share them with the world. Apple CEO Tim Cook said in a statement that the treasures are worth protecting.

The company did not give a figure for last year's donation. Donations allowed Indigenous youth to attend service corps programs at national parks and provided continued support for the Leaders of Color service crew, according to the company.