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TIMESTAMPS
1 TheFoundation
Beginningwith Yellowstone, the idea of a national park was an American invention ofhistoric consequences. The areas that now make up the national park system, andthose that will be added in years to come, are cumulative expressions of asingle national heritage. The National Park Service must manage park resourcesand values in such manner and by such means as will leave them unimpaired forthe enjoyment of future generations.
1.1 The National Park Idea
The worlds first nationalparkYellowstonewas created in 1872, at which time Congress set aside morethan one million acres as a public park or pleasuring ground for the benefitand enjoyment of the people. The legislation assigned control of the new parkto the Secretary of the Interior, who would be responsible for issuingregulations to provide for the preservation, from injury or spoliation, of alltimber, mineral deposits, natural curiosities, or wonders, within the park, andtheir retention in their natural condition. Other park management functionswere to include the development of visitor accommodations, the construction ofroads and bridle trails, the removal of trespassers, and protection againstthe wanton destruction of the fish and game found within the park (16UnitedStates Code 21-22).
This idea of a national park was anAmerican invention of historic consequences, marking the beginning of aworldwide movement that has subsequently spread to more than 100 countries.However, when Yellowstone National Park was created, no concept or plan existedupon which to build a system of such parks. The concept now described as thenational park system, which embraces, nationwide, a wide variety of natural andcultural resources, evolved slowly over the yearsoften through theconsolidation of federal land management responsibilities.
As interest grew in preserving thegreat scenic wonders of the West, efforts were also underway to protect thesites and structures associated with early Native American culture,particularly in the Southwest. The Antiquities Act of 1906 authorized thePresident to declare by public proclamation [as national monuments] historiclandmarks, historic and prehistoric structures, and other objects of historicor scientific interest that are situated upon the lands owned or controlled bythe U.S. government (16 USC 431).
In 1916 Congresscreated the National Park Service in the Department of the Interior to promoteand regulate the use of the federal areas known as national parks, monuments,and reservations (16 USC 1). (As noted in the Introduction, the terms NationalPark Service, Park Service, Service, and NPS are used interchangeably inthis document.)
1.2 The National Park System
The number and diversity of parkswithin the national park system grew as a result of a government reorganizationin 1933, another following World War II, and yet another during the 1960s.Today there are nearly 400 units in the national park system. These units arevariously designated as national parks, monuments, preserves, lakeshores,seashores, wild and scenic rivers, trails, historic sites, military parks,battlefields, historical parks, recreation areas, memorials, and parkways.Regardless of the many names and official designations of the park units thatmake up the national park system, all represent some nationally significantaspect of our natural or cultural heritage. They are the physical remnants ofour pastgreat scenic and natural places that continue to evolve, repositoriesof outstanding recreational opportunities, classrooms of our heritage, and thelegacy we leave to future generationsand they warrant the highest standard ofprotection.
It should be noted that, inaccordance with provisions of the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, any component ofthe National Wild and Scenic Rivers System that is administered by the ParkService is automatically a part of the national park system. Although there isno analogous provision in the National Trails System Act, several nationaltrails managed by the Service have been included in the national park system. These national rivers and trails that are part of the national park system aresubject to the policies contained herein, as well as to any other requirementsspecified in the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act or the National Trails System Act.
1.3 Criteria for Inclusion
Congress declared in the NationalPark System General Authorities Act of 1970 that areas comprising the nationalpark system are cumulative expressions of a single national heritage. Potentialadditions to the national park system should therefore contribute in their ownspecial way to a system that fully represents the broad spectrum of natural andcultural resources that characterize our nation. The National Park Service isresponsible for conducting professional studies of potential additions to thenational park system when specifically authorized by an act of Congress, andfor making recommendations to the Secretary of the Interior, the President, andCongress. Several laws outline criteria for units of the national park systemand for additions to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers System and theNational Trails System.
To receive a favorablerecommendation from the Service, a proposed addition to the national parksystem must (1) possess nationally significant natural or cultural resources,(2) be a suitable addition to the system, (3) be a feasible addition to thesystem, and (4) require direct NPS management instead of protection by otherpublic agencies or the private sector. These criteria are designed to ensurethat the national park system includes only the most outstanding examples ofthe nations natural and cultural resources. These criteria also recognize thatthere are other management alternatives for preserving the nations outstandingresources.
1.3.1 National Significance
NPS professionals, in consultationwith subject-matter experts, scholars, and scientists, will determine whether aresource is nationally significant. An area will be considered nationallysignificant if it meets all of the following criteria:
· It is an outstanding example of a particular type of resource.
· It possesses exceptional value or quality in illustrating orinterpreting the natural or cultural themes of our nations heritage.
· It offers superlative opportunities for public enjoyment or forscientific study.
· It retains a high degree of integrity as a true, accurate, andrelatively unspoiled example of a resource.
National significance for culturalresources will be evaluated by applying the National Historic Landmarkscriteria contained in 36 CFR Part 65(Code of Federal Regulations).
1.3.2 Suitability
An area is considered suitable foraddition to the national park system if it represents a natural or culturalresource type that is not already adequately represented in the national parksystem, or is not comparably represented and protected for public enjoyment byother federal agencies; tribal, state, or local governments; or the privatesector.
Adequacy of representation isdetermined on a case-by-case basis by comparing the potential addition to othercomparably managed areas representing the same resource type, while consideringdifferences or similarities in the character, quality, quantity, or combinationof resource values. The comparative analysis also addresses rarity of theresources, interpretive and educational potential, and similar resourcesalready protected in the national park system or in other public or privateownership. The comparison results in a determination of whether the proposednew area would expand, enhance, or duplicate resource protection or visitor useopportunities found in other comparably managed areas.
1.3.3 Feasibility
To be feasible as a new unit of thenational park system, an area must be (1) of sufficient size and appropriateconfiguration to ensure sustainable resource protection and visitor enjoyment(taking into account current and potential impacts from sources beyond proposedpark boundaries), and (2) capable of efficient administration by the Service ata reasonable cost.
In evaluating feasibility, theService considers a variety of factors for a study area, such as the following:
· size
· boundary configurations
· current and potential uses of the study area and surroundinglands
· landownership patterns
· public enjoyment potential
· costs associated with acquisition, development, restoration, andoperation
· access
· current and potential threats to the resources
· existing degradation of resources
· staffing requirements
· local planning and zoning
· the level of local and general public support (includinglandowners)
· the economic/socioeconomic impacts of designation as a unit ofthe national park system
The feasibility evaluation alsoconsiders the ability of the National Park Service to undertake new managementresponsibilities in light of current and projected availability of funding andpersonnel.
An overall evaluation offeasibility will be made after taking into account all of the above factors.However, evaluations may sometimes identify concerns or conditions, rather thansimply reach a yes or no conclusion. For example, some new areas may befeasible additions to the national park system only if landowners are willingto sell, or the boundary encompasses specific areas necessary for visitoraccess, or state or local governments will provide appropriate assurances thatadjacent land uses will remain compatible with the study areas resources andvalues.
1.3.4 Direct NPS Management
There are many excellent examplesof the successful management of important natural and cultural resources byother public agencies, private conservation organizations, and individuals. TheNational Park Service applauds these accomplishments and actively encouragesthe expansion of conservation activities by state, local, and private entitiesand by other federal agencies. Unless direct NPS management of a studied areais identified as the clearly superior alternative, the Service will recommendthat one or more of these other entities assume a lead management role, andthat the area not receive national park system status.
Studies will evaluate anappropriate range of management alternatives and will identify whichalternative or combination of alternatives would, in the professional judgmentof the Director, be most effective and efficient in protecting significantresources and providing opportunities for appropriate public enjoyment.Alternatives for NPS management will not be developed for study areas that failto meet any one of the four criteria for inclusion listed in section 1.3.
In cases where a study areasresources meet criteria for national significance but do not meet othercriteria for inclusion in the national park system, the Service may insteadrecommend an alternative status, such as affiliated area. To be eligible foraffiliated area status, the areas resources must (1)meet the same standards forsignificance and suitability that apply to units of the national park system;(2) require some special recognition or technical assistance beyond what isavailable through existing NPS programs; (3) be managed in accordance with thepolicies and standards that apply to units of the national park system; and (4)be assured of sustained resource protection, as documented in a formalagreement between the Service and the nonfederal management entity. Designationas a heritage area is another option that may be recommended. Heritage areashave a nationally important, distinctive assemblage of resources that is bestmanaged for conservation, recreation, education, and continued use throughpartnerships among public and private entities at the local or regional level. Either of these two alternatives (and others as well) would recognize an areasimportance to the nation without requiring or implying management by theNational Park Service.
(See National Significance 1.3.1; Suitability 1.3.2)
1.4 Park Management
1.4.1 The Laws GenerallyGoverning Park Management
The most important statutorydirective for the National Park Service is provided by interrelated provisionsof the NPS Organic Act of 1916 and the NPS General Authorities Act of 1970,including amendments to the latter law enacted in 1978.
The key management-relatedprovision of the Organic Act is as follows:
[The National Park Service] shall promote and regulatethe use of the Federal areas known as national parks, monuments, andreservations hereinafter specified by such means and measures as conform tothe fundamental purpose of the said parks, monuments, and reservations, whichpurpose is to conserve the scenery and the natural and historic objects and thewild life therein and to provide for the enjoyment of the same in such mannerand by such means as will leave them unimpaired for the enjoyment of futuregenerations. (16 USC 1)
Congress supplemented and clarifiedthese provisions through enactment of the General Authorities Act in 1970, andagain through enactment of a 1978 amendment to that act (the Redwoodamendment, contained in a bill expanding Redwood National Park), which addedthe last two sentences in the following provision. The key part of that act, asamended, is as follows:
Congress declares that the national park system, whichbegan with establishment of Yellowstone National Park in 1872, has since grownto include superlative natural, historic, and recreation areas in every majorregion of the United States, its territories and island possessions; that theseareas, though distinct in character, are united through their inter-relatedpurposes and resources into one national park system as cumulative expressionsof a single national heritage; that, individually and collectively, these areasderive increased national dignity and recognition of their superlativeenvironmental quality through their inclusion jointly with each other in onenational park system preserved and managed for the benefit and inspiration ofall the people of the United States; and that it is the purpose of this Act toinclude all such areas in the System and to clarify the authorities applicableto the system. Congress further reaffirms, declares, and directs that thepromotion and regulation of the various areas of the National Park System, asdefined in section 1c of this title, shall be consistent with and founded inthe purpose established by section 1 of this title [the Organic Act provisionquoted above], to the common benefit of all the people of the United States.The authorization of activities shall be construed and the protection,management, and administration of these areas shall be conducted in light ofthe high public value and integrity of the National Park System and shall notbe exercised in derogation of the values and purposes for which these variousareas have been established, except as may have been or shall be directly andspecifically provided by Congress. (16 USC 1a-1)
This section 1.4 ofManagementPoliciesrepresents the agencys interpretation of these key statutoryprovisions.
1.4.2 Impairment andDerogation: One Standard
Congress intended the language ofthe Redwood amendment to the General Authorities Act to reiterate theprovisions of the Organic Act, not create a substantively different managementstandard. The House committee report described the Redwood amendment as adeclaration by Congress that the promotion and regulation of the national parksystem is to be consistent with the Organic Act. The Senate committee reportstated that under the Redwood amendment, The Secretary has an absolute duty,which is not to be compromised, to fulfill the mandate of the 1916 Act to takewhatever actions and seek whatever relief as will safeguard the units of thenational park system. So, although the Organic Act and the General AuthoritiesAct, as amended by the Redwood amendment, use different wording (unimpairedand derogation) to describe what the National Park Service must avoid, theydefine a single standard for the management of the national park systemnot twodifferent standards. For simplicity,Management Policies usesimpairment (or a variation thereof), not both statutory phrases, to refer tothat single standard.
1.4.3 The NPS Obligation toConserve and Provide for Enjoyment of Park Resources and Values
The fundamental purpose of thenational park system, established by the Organic Act and reaffirmed by theGeneral Authorities Act, as amended, begins with a mandate to conserve parkresources and values. This mandate is independent of the separate prohibitionon impairment and applies all the time with respect to all park resources andvalues, even when there is no risk that any park resources or values may beimpaired. NPS managers must always seek ways to avoid, or to minimize to thegreatest extent practicable, adverse impacts on park resources and values.However, the laws do give the Service the management discretion to allow impactsto park resources and values when necessary and appropriate to fulfill thepurposes of a park, so long as the impact does not constitute impairment of theaffected resources and values.
The fundamental purpose of allparks also includes providing for the enjoyment of park resources and values bythe people of the United States. The enjoyment that is contemplated by thestatute is broad; it is the enjoyment of all the people of the United States and includes enjoyment both by people who visit parks and by those whoappreciate them from afar. It also includes deriving benefit (includingscientific knowledge) and inspiration from parks, as well as other forms ofenjoyment and inspiration. Congress, recognizing that the enjoyment by futuregenerations of the national parks can be ensured only if the superb quality ofpark resources and values is left unimpaired, has provided that when there is aconflict between conserving resources and values and providing for enjoyment ofthem, conservation is to be predominant. This is how courts have consistentlyinterpreted the Organic Act.
1.4.3.1 Park Purposes andLegislatively Authorized Uses
Park purposes are found in thegeneral laws pertaining to the national park system, as well as the enablinglegislation or proclamation establishing each unit. In addition to parkpurposes, in many cases the enabling legislation or proclamation for a parkunit may also identify uses that are either mandated or authorized. In theadministration ofmandated uses, park managers must allow the use;however, they do have the authority to and must manage and regulate the use toensure, to the extent possible, that impacts on park resources from that useare acceptable. In the administration ofauthorized uses, park managershave the discretionary authority to allow and manage the use, provided that theuse will not cause impairment or unacceptable impacts. In determining whetheror how to allow the use, park managers must consider the congressional orpresidential interest, as expressed in the enabling legislation or proclamation,that the use or uses continue. Where there is strong public interest in aparticular use, opportunities for civic engagement and cooperative conservationshould be factored into the decision-making process.
(See Unacceptable Impacts1.4.7.1; Civic Engagement 1.7; Major Elements of NPS Park Planning andDecision-making 2.2; General 8.1)
1.4.4 The Prohibition on Impairment of Park Resources and Values
While Congress has given theService the management discretion to allow impacts within parks, thatdiscretion is limited by the statutory requirement (generally enforceable bythe federal courts) that the Park Service must leave park resources and valuesunimpaired unless a particular law directly and specifically providesotherwise. This, the cornerstone of the Organic Act, establishes the primaryresponsibility of the National Park Service. It ensures that park resources andvalues will continue to exist in a condition that will allow the Americanpeople to have present and future opportunities for enjoyment of them.
The impairment of park resourcesand values may not be allowed by the Service unless directly and specificallyprovided for by legislation or by the proclamation establishing the park. Therelevant legislation or proclamation must provide explicitly (not byimplication or inference) for the activity, in terms that keep the Service fromhaving the authority to manage the activity so as to avoid the impairment.
1.4.5 What ConstitutesImpairment of Park Resources and Values
The impairment that is prohibitedby the Organic Act and the General Authorities Act is an impact that, in theprofessional judgment of the responsible NPS manager, would harm the integrityof park resources or values, including the opportunities that otherwise wouldbe present for the enjoyment of those resources or values. Whether an impactmeets this definition depends on the particular resources and values that wouldbe affected; the severity, duration, and timing of the impact; the direct andindirect effects of the impact; and the cumulative effects of the impact inquestion and other impacts.
An impact to any park resource orvalue may, but does not necessarily, constitute an impairment. An impact wouldbe more likely to constitute impairment to the extent that it affects aresource or value whose conservation is
· necessary to fulfill specific purposes identified in theestablishing legislation or proclamation of the park, or
· key to the natural or cultural integrity of the park or toopportunities for enjoyment of the park, or
· identified in the parks general management plan or otherrelevant NPS planning documents as being of significance.
An impact would be less likely toconstitute an impairment if it is an unavoidable result of an action necessaryto preserve or restore the integrity of park resources or values and it cannotbe further mitigated.
An impact that may, but would notnecessarily, lead to impairment may result from visitor activities; NPSadministrative activities; or activities undertaken by concessioners,contractors, and others operating in the park. Impairment may also result fromsources or activities outside the park. This will be addressed consistent withsections 1.6 and 1.7 on Cooperative Conservation and Civic Engagement.
(See Unacceptable Impacts1.4.7.1)
1.4.6 What Constitutes ParkResources and Values
The park resources and valuesthat are subject to the no-impairment standard include
· the parks scenery, natural and historic objects, and wildlife,and the processes and conditions that sustain them, including, to the extentpresent in the park: the ecological, biological, and physical processes thatcreated the park and continue to act upon it; scenic features; naturalvisibility, both in daytime and at night; natural landscapes; naturalsoundscapes and smells; water and air resources; soils; geological resources;paleontological resources; archeological resources; cultural landscapes;ethnographic resources; historic and prehistoric sites, structures, andobjects; museum collections; and native plants and animals;
· appropriate opportunities to experience enjoyment of the aboveresources, to the extent that can be done without impairing them;
· the parks role in contributing to the national dignity, the highpublic value and integrity, and the superlative environmental quality of thenational park system, and the benefit and inspiration provided to the Americanpeople by the national park system; and
· any additional attributes encompassed by the specific values andpurposes for which the park was established.
(Seeintroduction to chapter 4)
1.4.7 Decision-makingRequirements to Identify and Avoid Impairments
Before approving a proposed actionthat could lead to an impairment of park resources and values, an NPSdecision-maker must consider the impacts of the proposed action and determine,in writing, that the activity will not lead to an impairment of park resourcesand values. If there would be an impairment, the action must not be approved.
In making a determination ofwhether there would be an impairment, an NPS decision-maker must use his or herprofessional judgment. This means that the decision-maker must consider anyenvironmental assessments or environmental impact statements required by theNational Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (NEPA); consultations required undersection 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA), relevantscientific and scholarly studies; advice or insights offered by subject matterexperts and others who have relevant knowledge or experience; and the resultsof civic engagement and public involvement activities relating to thedecision. The same application of professional judgment applies when reachingconclusions about unacceptable impacts.
When an NPS decision-maker becomesaware that an ongoing activity might have led or might be leading to animpairment of park resources or values, he or she must investigate anddetermine if there is or will be an impairment. This investigation anddetermination may be made independent of, or as part of, a park planningprocess undertaken for other purposes. If it is determined that there is, orwill be, an impairment, the decision-maker must take appropriate action, to theextent possible within the Services authorities and available resources, toeliminate the impairment. The action must eliminate the impairment as soon asreasonably possible, taking into consideration the nature, duration, magnitude,and other characteristics of the impacts on park resources and values, as wellas the requirements of the National Environmental Policy Act, National HistoricPreservation Act, the Administrative Procedure Act, and other applicable laws.
(See Levels of Park Planning2.3; Evaluating Impacts on Natural Resources 4.1.3; Planning 5.2; General 8.1;Visitor Use 8.2; General 9.1; Glossary definition of Professional Judgment.Also see Directors Order #12: Conservation Planning, Environmental ImpactAnalysis, and Decision-making)
1.4.7.1 Unacceptable Impacts
The impact threshold at whichimpairment occurs is not always readily apparent. Therefore, the Service willapply a standard that offers greater assurance that impairment will not occur. The Service will do this by avoiding impacts that it determines to beunacceptable. These are impacts that fall short of impairment, but are stillnot acceptable within a particular parks environment. Park managers must notallow uses that would cause unacceptable impacts; they must evaluate existingor proposed uses and determine whether the associated impacts on park resourcesand values are acceptable.
Virtually every form of humanactivity that takes place within a park has some degree of effect on parkresources or values, but that does not mean the impact is unacceptable or thata particular use must be disallowed. Therefore, for the purposes of thesepolicies, unacceptable impacts are impacts that, individually or cumulatively,would
· be inconsistent with a parks purposes or values, or
· impede the attainment of a parks desired future conditions for natural and cultural resources as identified through the parks planning process, or
· create an unsafe or unhealthful environment for visitors or employees, or
· diminish opportunities for current or future generations to enjoy, learn about, or be inspired by park resources or values, or
· unreasonably interfere with
o parkprograms or activities, or
o anappropriate use, or
o the atmosphere of peace and tranquility, or the natural soundscape maintained in wilderness and natural, historic, or commemorative locations within the park.
o NPSconcessioner or contractor operations or services.
The following graphic illustrates the relationship between appropriate use, unacceptable impacts and impairment.
(See Appropriate Use of the Parks 1.5; General 8.1)
1.4.7.2 Improving Resource Conditions within the Parks
The Service willalso strive to ensure that park resources and values are passed on to futuregenerations in a condition that is as good as, or better than, the conditionsthat exist today. In particular, the Service will strive to restore theintegrity of park resources that have been damaged or compromised in the past.Restoration activities will be guided by the natural and cultural resource-specificpolicies identified in chapters 4 and 5 of theseManagement Policies.
(See Planningfor Natural Resource Management 4.1.1; Restoration of Natural Systems 4.1.5;Compensation for Injuries to Natural Resources 4.1.6; Restoration of NativePlant and Animal Species 4.4.2.2; Restoration (of Cultural Landscapes)5.3.5.2.3; Restoration (of Historic and Prehistoric Structures) 5.3.5.4.3;Restoration (of Museum Collections) 5.3.5.5.2. Also see Directors Order #12and Handbook.)
1.5 Appropriate Use of the Parks
The National Park Service embracesappropriate use of the parks because these uses are key to the enjoyment of theparks and the appreciation and inspiration derived from the resources. Parkresources have profound effects on those who experience them throughappropriate park uses. An appropriate use is a use that is suitable, proper,or fitting for a particular park, or to a particular location within a park. Not all uses are appropriate or allowable in units of the national park system,and what is appropriate may vary from one park to another and from one locationto another within a park.
In its role as steward of parkresources, the National Park Service must ensure that park uses that areallowed would not cause impairment of, or unacceptable impacts on, parkresources and values. When proposed park uses and the protection of parkresources and values come into conflict, the protection of resources and valuesmust be predominant. A new form of park use may beallowed within a park only after a determination has been made in theprofessional judgment of the superintendent that it will not result inunacceptable impacts. The National Park Service will always consider allowingactivities that are appropriate to the parks, although conditions may precludecertain activities or require that limitations be placed on them. Parksuperintendents must continually monitor all park uses to prevent unanticipatedand unacceptable impacts. If unanticipated andunacceptable impacts emerge, the superintendent must engage in a thoughtful,deliberate process to further manage or constrain the use, or discontinue it.
Appropriate visitor enjoyment isoften associated with the inspirational qualities of the parks. As a generalmatter, preferred forms of enjoyment are those that are uniquely suited to thesuperlative natural and cultural resources found in the parks and that (1)foster an understanding of and appreciation for park resources and values, or(2) promote enjoyment through a direct association with, interaction with, orrelation to park resources.
These preferred forms of usecontribute to the personal growth and well-being of visitors by takingadvantage of the inherent educational value of parks. Equally important, manyappropriate uses also contribute to the health and personal fitness of parkvisitors. These are the types of uses that theService will actively promote, in accordance with the Organic Act. Other formsof park uses may be allowed within a park in accordance with the policies foundin chapter 8.
(SeeParkPurposes and Legislatively Authorized Uses 1.4.3.1;Chapter2, Park System Planning; Process for Determining New Appropriate Uses 8.1.2. Also see Directors Order #17: National Park Service Tourism; 36 CFR 1.5)
1.6 Cooperative Conservation Beyond Park Boundaries
Cooperative conservation beyondpark boundaries is necessary as the National Park Service strives to fulfillits mandate to preserve the natural and cultural resources of parks unimpairedfor future generations. Ecological processes cross park boundaries, and parkboundaries may not incorporate all of the natural resources, cultural sites,and scenic vistas that relate to park resources or the quality of the visitorexperience. Therefore, activities proposed for adjacent lands may significantlyaffect park programs, resources, and values. Conversely, NPS activities mayhave impacts outside park boundaries. Recognizing that parks are integral partsof larger regional environments, and to support its primary concern ofprotecting park resources and values, the Service will work cooperatively withothers to
· anticipate, avoid, and resolve potential conflicts;
· protect park resources and values;
· provide for visitor enjoyment; and
· address mutual interests in the quality of life of communityresidents, including matters such as compatible economic development andresource and environmental protection.
Such local and regional cooperationmay involve other federal agencies; tribal, state, and local governments;neighboring landowners; nongovernmental and private sector organizations; andall other concerned parties. The Service will do these things becausecooperative conservation activities are a vital element in establishingrelationships that will benefit the parks and in fostering decisions that aresustainable.
The Service willuse all available tools to protect park resources and values from unacceptableimpacts. The Service will also seek to advance opportunities for conservationpartnerships. Superintendents will monitor land use proposals, changes toadjacent lands, and external activities for their potential impacts on parkresources and values. It is appropriate for superintendents to engageconstructively with the broader community in the same way that any good neighborwould. Superintendents will encourage compatible adjacent land uses and seek toavoid and mitigate potential adverse impacts on park resources and values byactively participating in the planning and regulatory processes of otherfederal agencies and tribal, state, and local governments having jurisdictionover property affecting, or affected by, the park. If a decision is made or isimminent that will result in unacceptable impacts on park resources,superintendents must take appropriate action, to the extent possible within theServices authorities and available resources, to manage or constrain the useto minimize impacts. When engaged in these activities, superintendents shouldfully apply the principles of civic engagement to promote better understandingand communication by (1) documenting the parks concerns and sharing them withall who are interested, and (2) listening to the concerns of those who areaffected by the parks actions.
The Service willalso cooperate with federal, state, local, and tribal governments, as well asindividuals and organizations, to advance the goal of creating seamlessnetworks of parks. These partnership activities are intended to establishcorridors that link together, both physically and with a common sense ofpurpose, open spaces such as those found in parks, other protected areas, andcompatibly managed private lands. The Services goals in participating in apark network will be to increase protection and enhancement of biodiversity andto create a greater array of educational and appropriate recreationalopportunities. When participating in a park network, the Service will notrelinquish any of its authority to manage areas under its jurisdiction, norwill it expect other partners to relinquish theirs.
(See Civic Engagement 1.7;Cooperative Planning 2.3.1.8; Cooperative Conservation 3.4; Chapter 4, NaturalResource Management. Also see Directors Order #17: National Park Service Tourism;Directors Order #75A: Civic Engagement and Public Involvement)
1.7 Civic Engagement
The Service will embrace civic engagement as a fundamentaldiscipline and practice.The Services commitment to civic engagement isfounded on the central principle that preservation of the nations heritageresources relies on continued collaborative relationships between the Serviceand American society.Civic engagement will be viewedas a commitment to building and sustaining relationships with neighbors andother communities of interestboth near and far. This will require that theService communicate by both talking and listening. Through its practice ofcivic engagement, the Service will actively encourage a two-way,continuous, and dynamic conversation with the public.
Civic engagementwill take place on many levels to strengthen understanding of the full meaningand contemporary relevance of park resources and values. The goal of civic engagement will be to reinforce the Servicesand the publics commitment to the preservation and stewardship of cultural andnatural heritage resources.
The Service will welcome people to enjoy their parks inappropriate, sustainable ways. This practice will promote civic responsibilityby building long-term, collaborative relationships with a broad range ofcommunities, which in turn will foster a widespread investment in stewardshipof the nations resources. Park and program managers will seek opportunities towork in partnership with all interested parties to jointly sponsor, develop,and promote public involvement activities and thereby improve mutualunderstanding, decisions, and work products. Through these efforts the Servicewill also learn from the communities it serves, including gateway communities.
A better understanding of thechanging demographics of our nation is critical to the future of the NationalPark Service. The Park Service must actively seek to understand the values andconnections our changing population has or does not have for natural andcultural heritage if it is to remain responsive and relevant to public needs anddesires. This includes understanding why people do or do not visitorcareabout national parks. It is vital that the Service help those who do notvisit to understand and support their national park system.
(SeeRelationship with American Indian Tribes 1.11. Also see Directors Order #75A:Civic Engagement and Public Involvement)
1.8 Environmental Leadership
Given the scope of itsresponsibility for the resources and values entrusted to its care, the Servicehas an obligation to demonstrate and work with others to promote leadership inenvironmental stewardship. The Park Service must set an example not only forvisitors, other governmental agencies, the private sector, and the public atlarge, but also for a worldwide audience. Touching so many lives, the Servicesmanagement of the parks presents a unique opportunity to awaken the potentialof each individual to play a proactive role in protecting the environment.
Environmental leadership will bedemonstrated in all aspects of NPS activities, including policy development;park planning; all aspects of park operations; land protection; natural andcultural resource management; wilderness management; interpretation andeducation; facilities design, construction, and management; and commercialvisitor services. In demonstrating environmental leadership, the Service will(1) fully comply with the letter and the spirit of the National EnvironmentalPolicy Act and the National Historic Preservation Act, and (2) continuallyassess the impact its operations have on natural and cultural resources so thatit may identify areas for improvement.The Servicewill institute a Service-wide environmental auditing program that will evaluatea broad array of NPS activities to ensure that they meet the highest standardsfor environmental protection and compliance. The program will alsoscreen for opportunities to implement sustainable practices and tangiblydemonstrate the highest levels of environmental ethic.
(See Facility Planning andDesign 9.1.1)
1.9 Management Excellence
Successful and sustained accomplishment of the Servicesmission requires sound professional judgment and attentive employment of themost effective and efficient business principles and practices. Opportunitiesto protect resources and provide opportunities for public enjoyment will beseverely limited unless park managers can demonstrate their responsibility toand accountability for concepts ranging from competent management ofinformation technology and finances to the successful management anddevelopment of human resources.
(SeeIntroductionCompliance, Accountability and Enforceability)
1.9.1 Human Resources
The Service will pursue a humanresources program that is comprehensive, that is based on competency, and thatencompasses the entire workforce, including employees, volunteers, contractors,concession employees, interns, and partners.
1.9.1.1 CareerDevelopment, Training, and Management
Employeedevelopment helps organizations achieve greater success. The goals of the ParkServices employee development activities are to help employees strengthentheir skills, knowledge, and experiences, as well as to promote broaderemployee engagement in the NPS mission. Employee development planning andstrategies will be directly linked to core competencies and ensure the highestreturn on investment for the organization. Employees will also haveopportunities to broaden their experiences and to progress in their careersthrough continuing education, undergraduate and graduate level courses, seminars,training, teaching, attendance at professional workshops and conferences, andother programs sponsored by scholarly institutions. In accordance with section102 of the National Parks Omnibus Management Act of 1998 (16 USC 5912), thePark Service will implement a comprehensive training program for employees inall professional careers and a goal of ensuring that the workforce has thebest, up-to-date knowledge, skills, and abilities with which to manage,interpret, and protect the resources of the national park system.
1.9.1.2 Succession Planning
The Service willdevelop the capacity to supply future leadership through a strategic andconscious effort to develop a diverse workforce with the potential to take onleadership positions. This process will include a collaborative effort amongall possible interests (including pre-employment/educational institutions) toprepare employees to meet the needs for leadership talent over time. TheService will cultivate talent for the short term and the long term to ensurethe availability of a sufficient number of people who reflect the diversity of America.
In accordance withsection 103 of the National Parks Omnibus Management Act of 1998 (16 USC 5913),the Service will implement a management training and development plan wherebycareer, professional NPS employees from any appropriate academic field mayobtain sufficient training, experience, and advancement opportunity to enablethose qualified to move into park management positions, including the positionof park superintendent. Similar efforts will be made for central officepositions.
1.9.1.3 Workforce Planning
The Service willimplement a process to
· evaluate the workforce;
· identify the competencies needed by the workforce in each of thecareer fields;
· evaluate present and future trends;
· develop strategies to address competency gaps;
· benchmark best practices; and
· develop a plan that will allow the Service to meet mission andstrategic goals.
In concert with employee developmentand succession planning, workforce planning will ensure that all elements ofthe workforce are provided the orientation and training necessary to supportthe NPS mission.
1.9.1.4 Employee Safety and Health
The safety andhealth of employees, contractors, volunteers, and the public are core Servicevalues. In making decisions on matters concerning employee safety and health,NPS managers must exercise good judgment and discretion and, above all, keep inmind that the safeguarding of human life must not be compromised. The Servicemust ensure that all employees are trained and informed on how to do their jobssafely, and that they have the necessary clothing, materials, and equipment toperform their duties with minimal personal risk.
(See VisitorSafety and Emergency Response 8.2.5)
1.9.1.5 Workforce Diversity
The Park Servicewill continue to seek ways to achieve its workforce diversity goals and torecognize workforce diversity as a sound business practice. Success inachieving workforce diversity will also enhance the Services ability to moresuccessfully connect with park visitors who represent Americas diverse population. Continuing efforts will be made to increase public awarenessof employment opportunities and to develop partnerships with diversepopulations and organizations for the purpose of improving workforce diversity.
1.9.1.6 Volunteers in the Parks
Increasingly, American citizens whoare not employed by the Service make important contributions by supplementingthe efforts of the NPS workforce. The Service welcomes their efforts and willcontinue to use its authority under the Volunteers in the Parks Act of 1969 to
· protect park resources and values;
· improve its service to the public;
· foster stronger ties with the pubic; and
· provide opportunities for the public to learn about andexperience the parks.
Pursuant to this statute,volunteers may be recruited without regard to civil service regulations; arecovered for tort liability and work-injury compensation; and may be reimbursedfor out-of-pocket expenses while participating in the program. However,volunteers cannot be used for law enforcement work or in policymakingprocesses, or to displace NPS employees. Volunteers may perform hazardousduties only if they possess the necessary skills to perform the duties assignedto them. Volunteers will be accepted without regard to race, creed, religion,age, sex, color, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation. NPShousing may be used for volunteers.
(See Volunteers in Parks 7.6.1. Also see Directors Order #7: Volunteers in Parks, and associated ReferenceManual 7)
1.9.2 ManagingInformation
The future of individual parks andof the Service as an accountable organization depends heavily on (1) theavailability, management, and dissemination of comprehensive information, and(2) the Services success in the long-term preservation of, management of, andaccess to that information. NPS information resources exist in a variety ofdifferent media, including paper records, electronic documents, maps, databases,photographs, videos, and audio recordings. The Service will implementprofessional quality programs to preserve, manage, and integrate theseresources and make them accessible. The Service will also use tools andtechnologies that will enhance
· information capture in permanent and durable forms;
· information management that is required by NPS policy and bylegal and professional standards, including information security;
· management of electronic, textual, and audiovisual informationresources, including still images, for continuous accessibility by NPS staffand the public;
· Internet and World Wide Web capabilities, while maintaininginformation security;
· geographic information systems (GIS);
· the understanding and management of the nations natural andcultural resources; and
· the accessibility and availability of information to persons withdisabilities.
1.9.2.1 Information Sharing
The Service is committed to thewidest possible availability and sharing of knowledge and to fosteringdiscussion about the national park system, Americas natural and culturalheritage that is found in national parks, and the national experiences andvalues they represent. Most information shared with the public is presumed tobe in the public domain, and therefore available to anyone who is interested.The only exceptions to information sharing are where disclosure couldjeopardize specific park resources or donor agreements or violate legal orconfidentiality requirements.
1.9.2.2 Proprietary Information
When producing or acquiring newworks (such as images, graphic designs, logos, writing, Web sites, or otherproprietary information) through acquisition by donation, contracting,partnerships, or other means, the Service will acquire the appropriatecopyrights and any necessary releases whenever there is a current oranticipated need for unrestricted access to those works. The Service willrespect the rights of owners of copyrights to control how their works are usedand comply with fair use standards when information or works are not licensedfor dissemination.
(Also see Directors Order #67:Copyright and Trademarks)
1.9.2.3 InformationConfidentiality
Although it is thegeneral NPS policy to share information widely, the Service also realizes thatproviding information about the location of park resources may sometimes placethose resources at risk of harm, theft, or destruction. This can occur, forexample, with regard to caves, archeological sites, tribal information, andrare plant and animal species. Some types of personnel, financial, and lawenforcement matters are other examples of information that may be inappropriatefor release to the public. Therefore, information will be withheld when theService foresees that disclosure would be harmful to an interest protected byan exemption under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).
Information will also be withheldwhen the Park Service has entered into a written agreement (e.g., deed of gift,interview release, or similar written contract) to withhold data for a fixedperiod of time at the time of acquisition of the information. Such informationwill not be provided unless required by the Freedom of Information Act or otherapplicable law, a subpoena, a court order, or a federal audit.
NPS managers will use theseexemptions sparingly, and only to the extent allowed by law. In general, ifinformation is withheld from one requesting party, it must be withheld fromanyone else who requests it, and if information is provided to one requestingparty, it must be provided to anyone else who requests it. Procedurescontained in Directors Order #66: FOIA and Protected Resource Information willbe followed to document any decisions to release information or to withholdinformation from the public. Directors Order #66 also provides more detailedinformation regarding the four specific statutes and an executive order thatexempt park resource information from FOIA disclosure.
(See Natural ResourceInformation 4.1.2; Studies and Collections 4.2; Caves 4.8.2.2; Research 5.1;Confidentiality 5.2.3; Access to Interpretive and Educational Opportunities7.5.2. Also see Directors Orders #5: Paper and Electronic Communications; #19:Records Management; #84: Library Management; and #11C: Web Publishing. Also seeReference Manual 53, chapter 5)
1.9.3 Accessibility for Personswith Disabilities
All practicableefforts will be made to make NPS facilities, programs, services, employment,and meaningful work opportunities accessible and usable by all people,including those with disabilities. This policy reflects the commitment toprovide access to the widest cross section of the public and ensure compliancewith the Architectural Barriers Act of 1968, the Rehabilitation Act of 1973,the Equal Employment Opportunity Act of 1972, and the Americans withDisabilities Act of 1990. Specific guidance for implementing these laws isfound in the Secretary of the Interiors regulations regarding enforcement ofnondiscrimination on the basis of disability in Department of the Interior programs(43 CFR Part 17, Subpart E), and the General Services Administrationsregulations adopting accessibility standards for the Architectural Barriers Act(41 CFR Part 102-76, Subpart C).
A primary principle ofaccessibility is that, to the highest degree practicable, people withdisabilities should be able to participate in the same programs, activities,and employment opportunities available to everyone else. In choosing amongmethods of providing accessibility, higher priority will be given to methodsthat offer programs and activities in the most integrated setting appropriate. Special, separate, or alternative facilities, programs, or services will beprovided only when existing ones cannot reasonably be made accessible. Thedetermination of what is practicable will be made only after carefulconsultation with persons with disabilities or their representatives. Anydecision that would result in less than equal opportunity is subject to thefiling of an official disability rights complaint under the departmentalregulations cited above.
(See Physical Access for Personswith Disabilities 5.3.2; Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities 8.2.4;Accessibility of Commercial Services 10.2.6.2. Also see Americans withDisabilities Act and Architectural Barriers Act Accessibility Standards)
1.9.4 PublicInformation and Media Relations
The Park Servicewill provide timely and accurate information to the public and news media inaccordance with applicable laws, departmental policy, and directors orders. Parkmanagers should identify appropriate opportunities to inform and educate thepublic about park resources and values and ways to enjoy them. Every effortshould be made to provide early notification of changes in park managementpractices and conduct active civic engagement pursuant to Directors Order #75A.Park managers should keep the public informed of ongoing events in parks,especially as they may affect visitors and gateway communities. In someinstances, certain information about individuals or events may need to bewithheld for privacy, security, or other reasons, consistent with the Freedomof Information Act and the Privacy Act of 1974.
(Also seeDirectors Order #66: FOIA and Protected Resource Information)
1.9.5 Management Accountability
Managers are responsible for thequality and timeliness of program performance, increasing productivity,controlling costs, mitigating the adverse aspects of agency operations, andensuring that programs are managed with integrity and in compliance with applicablelaw. Management accountability systems will be designed and implemented to addvalue and contribute to the efficiency and effectiveness of NPS programs.
The National Park Service willcomply with OMB (Office of Management and Budget) Circular A-123, the FederalManagers Financial Integrity Act of 1982 (31 USC 3512), and the GovernmentPerformance and Results Act of 1993 (31 USC 1115), which require that allfederal agencies and individual managers take systematic and proactive measuresto (1) develop and implement appropriate, cost-effective management controlsfor results-oriented management, (2) assess the adequacy of management controlsin federal programs and operations, (3) identify needed improvements, (4) takecorresponding corrective action, and (5) report annually on managementcontrols.
The concept of managementaccountability will be applied to all strategies, plans, guidance, andprocedures that govern programs and operations throughout the Park Service,including those at the park level, the program center level, and theService-wide level. The Service will, through its organization, policies, andprocedures, implement systems of controls to reasonably ensure that
· programs achieve their intended results;
· resources are used consistently with the NPS mission;
· programs and resources are managed to prevent waste, fraud,abuse, and mismanagement;
· laws and regulations are followed; and
· reliable and timely information is obtained, maintained,reported, and used for decision making.
(See Strategic Planning 2.3.3, and Directors Order#54: Management Accountability)
1.9.5.1 Financial Sustainability
The Park Servicewill strive to be an effective and efficient steward of appropriated andnonappropriated funds and services. These include revenues from recreation,concessions, and other fees, as well as financial and in-kind support fromcooperating associations, friends groups, other partnership entities, andvolunteers. The Park Service will attempt to meet management goals consistentlythrough strategic planning that anticipates budget requirements, changingconditions, and reasonably foreseeable trends and events.
The Service willcontinually implement best management practices to achieve financialsustainability, including
· analyzing and revising work processes to achieve greaterefficiency;
· making full use of information technology;
· anticipating and addressing funding availability through acceptedbusiness practices;
· ensuring that the out-year budget implications of decision-makingare carefully considered in planning and other processes;
· ensuring that both short- and long-termcosts of facility development and operation are factored into the projectformulation and selection process;
· using value-based decision-makingprocesses such as value analysis, capital asset planning, benefit-costanalysis, life-cycle cost estimating, risk analysis, and total cost ofownership analysis;
· linking performance management elements to achieving andmaintaining financial sustainability;
· embracing preventative maintenance and management that preventsthe degradation of park resources and facilities, thereby avoiding costlyrestoration or rehabilitation efforts; and
· using best financial management practices to ensure transparentinformation and public accountability consistent with proven financialaccounting standards.
The Service willcontinually seek improvement and innovation in the areas covered by thefollowing subsections.
1.9.5.2 Facilities
The National ParkService will provide visitor and administrative facilities that are necessary,appropriate, and consistent with the conservation of park resources andvalues. Facilities will be harmonious with park resources, compatible withnatural processes, esthetically pleasing, functional, energy- and water-efficient,cost-effective, universally designed, and as welcoming as possible to allsegments of the population. Park facilities and operations of all sizes willdemonstrate environmental leadership by incorporating sustainable practices tothe maximum extent practicable in planning, design, siting, construction, andmaintenance.
1.9.5.3 BudgetPerformance and Accountability Programs
The Park Servicewill also continue to improve the budget formulation and accounting andfinancial reporting processes, particularly related to park specifics andassets, including heritage assets, by making them more transparent. The goal ofthese efforts will be to ensure that
· funds are spent in support of a parks purpose or NPS mission;
· funds are spent in an efficient, transparent, and effectivemanner;
· a parks request for funding is credible; and
· there are adequate funds and staff to conserve and protect theresources for which parks are responsible and provide for the enjoyment of thesame.
1.10 Partnerships
The Service recognizes the benefitsof cooperative conservation (in accordance with Executive Order 13352,Facilitation of Cooperative Conservation), as well as the significant rolepartners play in achieving conservation goals and funding conservationinitiatives on behalf of the national park system. The Service has had manysuccessful partnerships with individuals; organizations; tribal, state, andlocal governments; and other federal agencies that have helped fulfill the NPSmission. Through these partnerships, the Service has received valuableassistance in the form of educational programs, visitor services, livinghistory demonstrations, search-and-rescue operations, fund-raising campaigns,habitat restoration, scientific and scholarly research, ecosystem management,and a host of other activities. These partnerships, both formal and informal,have produced countless benefits for the Service and for the national parksystem.
Benefits often extend into thefuture, because many people who participate as partners connect more stronglywith the parks and commit themselves to long-term stewardship. The Service willcontinue to welcome and actively seek partnership activities with individuals,organizations, and others who share the Services commitment to protecting parkresources and values and providing for their enjoyment. The Service willembrace partnership opportunities that will help accomplish the NPS missionprovided that personnel and funding requirements do not make it impractical forthe Service to participate and that the partnership activity would not (1)violate legal or ethical standards, (2) otherwise reflect adversely on the NPSmission and image, or (3) imply or indicate an unwillingness by the Service toperform an inherently governmental function.
In the spirit of partnership, theService will also seek opportunities for cooperative management agreements withstate or local agencies that will allow for more effective and efficientmanagement of the parks, as authorized by section 802(a) of the National ParksOmnibus Management Act of 1998 (16 USC 1a-2(l)).
Whenever groups are created,controlled, or managed for the purpose of providing advice or recommendationsto the Service, the Service will first consult with the Office of the Solicitorto determine whether the Federal Advisory Committee Act requires the charteringof an advisory committee. Consultation with the Office of the Solicitor willnot be necessary when the Service meets with individuals, groups, ororganizations simply to exchange views and information or to solicit individualadvice on proposed actions. This actdoes not applyto intergovernmental meetings held exclusively between federal officials andelectedofficers of state, local and tribalgovernments (or their designated employees with authority to act on theirbehalf) acting in their official capacities,when (1) the meetings relate to intergovernmental responsibilities oradministration, and (2) the purpose of the committee is solely toexchange views, information, or advice relating to the management orimplementation of federal programs established pursuant to statute thatexplicitly or inherently share intergovernmental responsibilities oradministration.
(See Public Involvement 2.3.1.5;Partnerships 4.1.4; Studies and Collections 4.2; Independent Research 5.1.2;Agreements 5.2.2; Interpretive and Educational Partnerships 7.6; Volunteers inParks 7.6.1; Cooperating Associations 7.6.2; Enforcement Authority 8.3.4;Commercial Visitor Services Chapter 10. Also see Directors Orders #7:Volunteers in Parks;#17: National Park Service Tourism; #20: Agreements, #21:Donations and Fundraising; #27: Challenge Cost-share Program; #32: CooperatingAssociations; #75A: Civic Engagement and Public Involvement; NPS Guide to theFederal Advisory Committee Act; Executive Order 13352 (Facilitation ofCooperative Conservation)
1.11 Relationship with AmericanIndian Tribes
The National ParkService has a unique relationship with American Indian tribes, which is foundedin law and strengthened by a shared commitment to stewardship of the land andresources. The Service will honor its legal responsibilities to American Indiantribes as required by the Constitution of the United States, treaties, statutes,and court decisions. For the purposes of these policies, American Indiantribe means any band, nation, or other organized group or community ofIndians, including any Alaska Native Village, which is recognized as eligiblefor the special programs and services provided by the United States to Indiansbecause of their status as Indians.
The formal legalrationale for the relationship between the National Park Service and tribes isaugmented by the historical, cultural, and spiritual relationships thatAmerican Indian tribes have with park lands and resources. As the ancestralhomelands of many American Indian tribes, parks protect resources, sites, andvistas that are highly significant for the tribes. Therefore, the Service willpursue an open, collaborative relationship with American Indian tribes to helptribes maintain their cultural and spiritual practices and enhance the ParkServices understanding of the history and significance of sites and resourcesin the parks. Within the constraints of legal authority and its duty toprotect park resources, the Service will work with tribal governments toprovide access to park resources and places that are essential for thecontinuation of traditional American Indian cultural or religious practices.
1.11.1 Government-to-Government Relationship
In accordance withthe Presidential Memorandum of April 29, 1994, and Executive Order 13175(Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal Governments), the Servicewill maintain a government-to-government relationship with federally recognizedtribal governments. This means that NPS officials will work directly withappropriate tribal government officials whenever plans or activities maydirectly or indirectly affect tribal interests, practices, and/or traditionaluse areas such as sacred sites.
1.11.2 Consultation
Consultations,whether initiated by a tribe or the Park Service, will be respectful of tribalsovereignty. The Federal Advisory Committee Act does not apply to consultationmeetings held exclusively between federal officials and elected officers oftribal governments or their designees.
Tribal needs forprivacy and confidentiality of certain kinds of information will be respected. Such information will be deemed confidential when authorized by law,regulation, or policy. Before beginning government-to-governmentconsultations, park managers will consider what information is necessary torecord. Culturally sensitive information will be collected and recorded only tothe extent necessary to support sound management decisions and only inconsultation with tribal representatives.
Mutually acceptableconsultation protocols to guide government-to-government relationships will bedeveloped at the park and program levels with assistance from regional andsupport offices as needed. The protocols will be developed with anunderstanding of special circumstances present at individual parks. Theseprotocols and the actual consultation itself will be informed by national,regional, and park-based subject matter experts.
NPS managers willbe open and candid with tribal governments during consultations so that theaffected tribes may fully evaluate the potential impact of the proposal and theService may fully consider tribal views in its decision-making processes. Thismeans that government-to-government consultation should begin at the earliestpossible stages of planning.
(SeeConsultation 5.2.1; Ethnographic Resources 5.3.5.3. Also see Directors Order#66: FOIA and Protected Resource Information)
1.11.3 TrustResources
Activities carried out on parklands may sometimes affect tribal trust resources. Trustresources arethose natural resources reserved by or for Indian tribes through treaties,statutes, judicial decisions, and executive orders, which are protected by afiduciary obligation on the part of the United States. In accordance with thegovernment-to-government relationship and mutually established protocols, theService will interact directly with tribal governments regarding the potentialimpacts of proposed NPS activities on Indian tribes and trust resources.
In considering aproposed program, project, or action, the Service will ensure that effects ontrust resources are explicitly identified and evaluated in consultation withpotentially concerned tribes and that they are addressed in planning, decision,and operational documents. With regard to activities that may impact Indiantrust resources or tribal health and safety, the Service will consult with theBureau of Indian Affairs, the Office of the Solicitor, and other offices andagencies, as appropriate.
(Also seeSecretarial Order 3206, June 5, 1997)
1.12 NativeHawaiians, Pacific Islanders, and Caribbean Islanders
The National ParkService administers parks in Hawaii, Guam, the Commonwealth of the NorthernMariana Islands, American Samoa, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. TheService will maintain open, collaborative relationships with native peoples forwhom these islands are their ancestral homes. The Service will also meet anyresponsibilities that may have been defined in the enabling legislation ofthese island parks and to Native Hawaiians in the administration of the NativeAmerican Graves Protection and Repatriation Act and the National HistoricPreservation Act.
1.13 An Enduring Message
The need for management policies inthe National Park Service was first articulated by Secretary of the Interior Franklin K. Lane in a letter to the first Director of the National ParkService, Stephen T. Mather, on May 13, 1918.
Secretary Lane stated that administrativepolicy should adhere to three broad principles based on the 1916 Organic Act:
First, that the national parks must be maintained inabsolutely unimpaired form for the use of future generations as well as thoseof our own time; second, that they are set apart for the use, observation,health, and pleasure of the people; and third, that the national interest mustdictate all decisions affecting public or private enterprise in the parks.
Todays nationalparks have become important to our nation in more ways than Secretary Lanecould possibly have imagined. Parks are a true reflection of our nationscollective history, heritage, and ideals. They can be models of healthy,natural, sustainable ecosystems. To remain relevant now and into the future,parks must be welcoming in order that visitors may understand and appreciatethese special places that have been set aside for their enjoyment. As Americas story continues to evolve, new park units will be added in the future, and theywill carry equally compelling reasons for their inclusion in the national parksystem.
Secretary Lanes guiding principles remain fundamentally valid, and they serve as a useful reminder of the need for a sustained commitment to park resource protection so that they are left unimpaired for the enjoyment of future generations. The Services commitment to protecting the national parks and ensuring public enjoyment for present and future generations is embodied in this 2006 edition ofManagement Policies.