MOAB — The National Park Service has announced that its Climbing and Canyoneering Management Plan for Arches National Park is available for public review and comment.
In order to determine what impacts rock climbing, canyoneering and associated activities have on park resources, and to consider how to manage these activities, the National Park Service has completed an environmental assessment of effect. The plan identifies a number of issues associated with the activities.
The plan evaluates three alternatives. Alternative A (No Action) describes the current management of rock climbing and canyoneering in the park. Alternative B (Preferred) proposes management of climbing and canyoneering activities through an adaptive management process. Alternative C proposes a minimum management approach with emphasis on educational opportunities for canyoneers and climbers focusing on park resources, safety and minimum impact use.
The assessment is available for public review and comment on the website at parkplanning.nps.gov/arch under "Climbing and Canyoneering Management Plan."
Individuals who wish to obtain a CD or hard copy of the document may do so by contacting Sabrina Henry at 435-719-2135. Copies will be available for review at the Southeast Utah Group Headquarters on Resource Blvd., the Arches National Park Visitor Center, and the Grand County Public Library. Comments can also be sent to: National Park Service, Southeast Utah Group, Attn: Planning and Compliance Coordinator, 2282 S. West Resource Blvd., Moab, UT 84532.
Deadline for comments is July 9.