The National Park Service has accepted their revised Management Policies, culminating an extensive public and internal review process. The policies provide guidance for park managers, decision makers, and administrators on a spectrum of management issues and prioritize conservation, sustainable recreation, and public input.

On behalf of the 4000 outdoor recreation businesses it serves, Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) provided comments throughout the intensive review process, expressing serious concerns that the initial direction of the proposed management policies would harm the high quality visitor experiences that have been widely available in our National Parks for decades. OIA applauds the final revision. OIA businesses believe the approved policies provide management direction that will ensure protection of our National Parks for future generations.

“Outdoor Industry Association is very pleased with the final Management Policy document. Nearly three quarters of all Americans participate in active outdoor recreation each year, many in our national parks,” says OIA President Frank Hugelmeyer. “Public enjoyment of these activities contributes greatly to the health of the U.S. economy, the wellness of Americans, and the appreciation of our national parks,” adds Hugelmeyer. “Placing a priority on the conservation of these special places is a sound plan for the management of National Park Service lands.”

Outdoor industry businesses shared support for the new NPS Policies as well. “Our national parks are tremendous outdoor treasures and we are pleased to see that the very special park experiences that Americans enjoy today are continued in the rules,” said Sally Jewell, CEO of outdoor retailer REI. “As outdoor businesses we appreciate the unique recreational experiences that the parks provide our customers, and as outdoor users we are pleased to know that the legacy of these great places will continue to be discovered and enjoyed by our children.”