Conservation and Enjoyment Are Both Important, But When in Conflict, Conservation Remains Predominant

Washington, D.C. -- National Park Service (NPS) Director Fran Mainella today announced release of the final edition of the agency’s 2006 Management Policies, culminating an extensive and intense public and internal review process. The NPS received more than 45,000 comments during the review period.

“The 2006 Management Policies set a positive tone and make clear the National Park Service’s desire for people to visit and enjoy their national parks,” said Mainella. “These policies emphasize the importance of cooperative conservation and civic engagement in our decision making.”

“I want to commend everyone involved -- from National Park Service career employees to constituency groups who took time to provide valuable insights into necessary revisions -- for the hard work, time and effort that has produced a document I can stand behind and endorse,” Mainella said.

Stephen P. Martin, NPS Deputy Director said, “The final document signed today by the director is essentially the same document that was released to employees for review on June 19. I want to thank career NPS employees for their hard work and dedication and their thoroughness in reviewing these policies.” According to Mainella, “The policies provide guidance for park superintendents and decision makers on a spectrum of issues, including planning, land use, visitor services, personnel recruitment, staff training, facilities operations, fire management, civic engagement, and law enforcement. Through their judicious and consistent application, these policies will set a firm foundation for stewardship that will continue to earn the trust and confidence of the American people.” The final 2006 Management Policies edition is available on the NPS web site at www.nps.gov/policy/MP2006.pdf. Copies may be purchased for $18.00 through the U.S. Government Printing Office web site (refer to document ISBN 0-16-076874) at http://bookstore.gpo.gov/collections/nparkmgmt.jsp.