With time running out for comments on proposed revisions to the National Park Service's Management Policies, the flurry of paper heading to Interior Secretary Gale Norton is mounting.
Today, 35 members of the House of Representatives signed onto a letter drafted by Rep. Brian Baird that asks Secretary Norton to stop the overhaul of the Management Policies.
"These revisions would jeopardize the Park Service's ability to preserve our parks for future generations to enjoy," wrote the Washington state Democrat. "The revisions also raise serious concerns about the future course of our nation's land management policies."
Oddly, while Rep. Baird is co-chair of the Congressional National Parks Caucus, not all members of the caucus signed on. Notably absent is Rep. Mark Souder, the other co-chair.
Of course, the absence of Rep. Souder's signature isn't that surprising. He's a Republican, and Republicans don't normally chastise other Republicans. But then, party lines didn't stop Senator Lamar Alexander, R-Tenn., earlier this month from voicing his opposition in a letter to Ms. Norton.
Also missing from the list of co-signers to Rep. Baird's letter is Rep. Candice Miller, another Republican. I'm not surprised by her absence, though, as she wants to force the Park Service to allow personal watercraft in the parks, and so she probably loves the revisions. Which makes me wonder why she's a member of the National Parks Caucus?
In his letter, Congressman Baird, who represents Washington state's third congressional district, told Secretary Norton that "the proposed revisions de-emphasize preservation in favor of elevating the importance of current use." He also takes issue with wording that many believe would weaken the Park Service's responsibility for maintaining clean air and natural soundscapes.
"Congress has taken previous steps to clarify that when park managers face decisions regarding air pollution, noise, wilderness protection, and whether to allow specific recreational and commercial activities, they must always err on the side of preserving park resources," writes Baird. "The revised policies diminish and distort this prioritized mission by altering conservation-oriented language and replacing it with more permissive instructions.
"To put it simply, the revised policies confuse the mission of the Park Service," he adds.
Story Categories:
A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.
Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:
- Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
- Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
- Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
- North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
- Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
- Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
- Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.
INN Member
The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.
Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.
Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks.
You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.
Comments