Virginia parks offer colorblind viewfinders for guests to enjoy the full spectrum of fall foliage

Virginia state park ranger Ethan Howes, who is colorblind, was unable to fully appreciate the beauty of the changing colors of fall until he discovered viewfinders with special lenses that allowed him to see the full color spectrum. His emotional experience of finally being able to distinguish between the different hues led him to expand the program to make adapted viewfinders available at every Virginia State Park, making it the first park system in the nation to do so. The unveiling event held earlier this year allowed other colorblind individuals to experience the vibrant colors of nature, eliciting emotional responses and awe at the previously unseen shades. The company behind the technology, Enchroma, worked with the park system to provide these viewfinders and lenses, enabling all park visitors to witness the beauty of their surroundings. Melissa Baker, the director of Virginia State Parks, described the impact of the program as one of the best days of her career, emphasizing the importance of providing opportunities for all people to enjoy and appreciate nature and its colors. Tony Dykes, co-founder of Enchroma, highlighted the importance of introducing the technology in a natural setting to enhance the experience for users. As a result, the program has provided a unique and rewarding opportunity for colorblind individuals to see the world in a new light, creating a meaningful impact for both the ranger and the park visitors alike.

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