Arches National Park Seeking Comments on Climbing Plan

Arches National Park is now seeking public comments regarding the development of a Climbing Management Plan. In 2006, unusual climbing activities (Dean Potter being a jackass) raised public interest and concern about issues associated with technical rock climbing. I don’t have a problem with the fact that he climbed the thing, but the style was piss poor. Did you really need a film crew on hand? Doesn’t sound like a “soul” experience to me.

“We’ve decided to take a new look at our climbing policies, “commented Laura Joss, superintendent of the park. “We’re asking for suggestions from the public about options regarding climbing activities in the park, as well as issues to be addressed.”

A climbing management planning effort will consider a full range of alternatives to protect resources, visitors and visitor experience. It’s been suggested that climbing could be banned altogether in the park, which is all the more reason why climbers need to get involved.

The scoping phase of the process will continue until May 4, 2007. After that an environmental assessment will be developed, which will then be available for public review and comment.

Scoping comments may be submitted over the internet or by mail to Superintendent, Arches National Park, PO Box 907, Moab, UT 84532.

You can check out the official press release online here.