Re: [TomAiello] We need to start making a scene about parafoil prohibition in USA national parks
In reply to:
They already had a system in place for whitewater rafting companies, and he wanted to model a system for BASE access on that.
Which is Absurd.
In reply to:
That was from a long set of discussions I had with Don Striker when he was superintendent of the New River. He told me he couldn't sell unregulated access to his bosses in DC.
So Tom, there is quite a bit to break down and speak to between your three posts; starting here. I think it is fair to say that the majority of your statements (throughout the thread) are in relation to New River; a complicated topic, and a task which I wouldn't want to undertake publicly without looking back at emails and PMs with the various people who provided me info over the years. Where Mitch and I are both busy and can't even do that currently, between ourselves.
However, you did lead right into my next point:
As Mitch stated above: -- I think that is very reasonable, if, you are dealing with reasonable people. So, lets say that he/we are successful in getting a permit (meaning: some degree of consistent/regular access, but not "uncontrolled") to a low key place like those we have spoken about in recent PMs. Then another, and maybe even a third...
What's to stop an NPS Director from stepping in and shutting it all down; "as we prove ourselves"? -- Nothing!
But, but, why oh why, would they do such a thing...? Because "it's not an appropriate activity."
I am encouraged to hear from Mitch that there is new blood and opinions are changing, but it's not happening fast enough, and outside of additional info, it's also not happening with the parties I would deem necessary.
Mitch already spoke somewhat to the points I wanted to make, here.
Along with this, lets look at the ass's full statements:
In reply to:
http://www.modbee.com/...rticle166303332.html
Yosemite park spokesman Scott Gediman said BASE jumping is illegal because it doesn’t fit in with “the park’s values” that puts a high priority of providing a wholesome, quiet, safe environment for families and visitors. He said typically two to three BASE jumpers are prosecuted each year for illegally pursuing their sport in the park.
“Some of these jumpers have landed in trees and in rivers,” Gediman said. “They also draw large crowds and a circus-like atmosphere.”
“We just don’t believe it’s appropriate for the park,” Gediman said, noting that sometimes it takes park staff to rescue jumpers.
Well, Chip is gone (he got spider kicked back home to Mt Rainier), and maybe you haven't chatted with Gediman, Tom... because it sure sounds to me like he, and He Who Authorizes, what he says, despises BASE jumping. Where I hate to break it to everyone, but he's not just "a spokesman"; -- He's old fart blood, who also saw Jan Davis go in.
In reply to:
What does your role at Yosemite entail? And how do you juggle being a park ranger and a public affairs person?
As a National Park Ranger, I’m involved in day-to-day park operations and serve on the park’s management team.
I also serve as the park spokesman and handle media relations, work with political delegations, plan special events and meet with international delegations. In my role with the media, I must accurately represent the park and the NPS.
But to compliment your statements, Tom... just like Bill Wendt (Chief Ranger) said in Sunshine Superman, (without quoting his full statement, ending with):
We do however have an interesting situation currently. Because the Deputy Director, and acting Director until recently, is now the Yosemite Superintendent; who grew up in the park according to the article I posted above.
So ... What does Mr. Reynolds think?
Because if you can't convince him, you're not going to convince anyone (of means), and I don't have time to wait another 20 years; or wait for "slow, thorough and responsible progression" with individuals who I don't believe have any desire to see our dreams come to fruition.
Happy to be wrong... and we've got plenty of time.
In reply to:
The most precious commodity we have in this issue is the personal time and energy of the individuals who are willing to work on it. You only have so much you can give, and eventually you run out of energy.
That is , why we should be working on Yosemite; at least in tandem.
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