The National Wilderness Preservation System (NWPS) is a network of protected areas in the United States that preserves the natural environment for future generations. Established by the Wilderness Act of 1964, it aims to maintain the wild character of designated lands, allowing for minimal human impact and promoting conservation. The NWPS includes various wilderness areas managed by federal agencies such as the U.S. Forest Service and the National Park Service. These areas provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, wildlife habitat, and scientific research, while ensuring that ecosystems remain intact and undisturbed by modern development.